Awards Time!

One of the most important things Commanders can do is recognize the Soldiers that serve under them.  On 27 January 2012, TX ADT-5 honored some of it's Soldiers for their hard work here in Ghazni.  A Soldier receives these awards for doing an exceptional job, going above and beyond expectations of their chain of command.  See if you can find your Soldier below!

Agriculture Extension Agent Conference II

Purpose

TX ADT-V, in conjunction with USDA’s Mark Stull, hosted a second  Agriculture Conference for the Agriculture Extension Agents and Agriculture Extension Interns for Ghazni Province at the request, and sponsored by, the Director of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (DAIL) Sultan Hussein. 

Discussion

ADT-V and USDA conducted training on youth agricultural education, soil management, castration, vitamins and minerals needed for optimal livestock health, and care of goats during the winter.

Outcome

The agriculture professionals of Ghazni Province left with increased knowledge in livestock care and agricultural education for youth as well as with materials to help teach their local populations the same classes.  The project was driven by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (GIRoA), and the responsibility for ongoing education programs will belong to the DAIL’s office. By developing a sustainable government in the agriculture sector the people will give more credibility to the officials and projects in their province and country. Agricultural output will increase because of the impact by the projects and consistency of everyday life (USG Goal 1.1)

This conference was a follow-up to a previously held agriculture conference held in November.  The amount of attendees doubled to 48 for this conference despite winter weather conditions.  This conference transferred the responsibility of hosting the conferences to the DAIL’s office, and was held off of FOB Ghazni.  Questions were asked after each class, allowing an open forum for the exchange of information across districts, tribes, and areas of expertise.

SGM Muckleroy teaches a class on the importance of youth agricultural education and the tools available for the classes.

Attendees take notes on the importance of castration and castration techniques.

Snow!

As you've all probably heard, we've had our first big snow here in Ghazni.  There have been dustings prior, but for us folks from Texas, almost 2 feet in a day and a half was a new experience! 

Check out the fun!

SSG Verdine stands in the snow outside the Ag Team office.

For a frame of reference, the roof is 10 feet tall.

Our Texas flag flying proudly over the snow.

Our motor pool about halfway through the snowfall.