The Afghan National Army’s 1st and 6th Kandaks, ANA Commandos and U.S. Special Operations Forces conducted an operation to clear insurgents from Shewan City, Farah province, early Monday – September 28 2009.

More than 500 Afghan and coalition forces participated in the operation which killed a large number of insurgents. Heavy fighting occurred over more than 12 hours. The combined force received rocket-propelled grenade, machine gun and small arms fire; the force responded with munitions including small arms, and machine gun fire as well as air strikes. No ANA or coalition force members were killed.

“This is a great day for Afghanistan and a great day for Farah province,” said Col. Namatulah, ANA 1st Kandak commander. “Today we fought alongside coalition forces like brothers. Main roads that go through this city will not be under Taliban control. Safe roads are good for everyone, military and civilian.”

“We want peace in Shewan and all of Afghanistan,” said Sgt. Deen, a 1st Kandak squadron leader. “Me and my men came from Herat to give people here the same opportunities people have there. All Afghans are entitled to peace.”

ISAF