BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Soldiers from the Afghan National Army’s 201st Kandak, assisted by Coalition forces, visited elders in the village of Tangay, Tarin Kowt District, Oruzgan Province, Afghanistan, Feb. 7.
 The soldiers conducted a security patrol through the Tiri Rud valley when they stopped to meet with village elders and determine the needs of the village residents.
Even before entering the village, children greeted the ANA and Coalition soldiers with smiles, waves and laughter as they approached. After a few minutes of chatting with the children, ANA soldiers met with village elders who welcomed the group into their village.
The elders were eager to talk about security in the fertile valley area near the Tangay Pass in central Afghanistan. The elders said the area is fairly secure, thanks to frequent Afghan National Police patrols, but evidence points to insurgent activity in nearby mountains.
“The security in general is the priority,” said a village elder. “Afghanistan has been at war for 30 years. All we want is peace.”
Villagers also pointed out that while the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has directly aided Tangay residents with food and other supplies, more help is needed.
“Getting water is a particular challenge for this area, especially during the summer months,” said an elder.
The elder explained that melting snow causes the nearby Tiri Rud (river) to flood in the spring. After the floods come months of drought throughout the summer. Elders said how the flood and drought cycle wreaks havoc on their crops.
Security and economic development are important, not only to the elders, but to all residents in the area. Tangay Pass is home to more than 200 families and also houses the Tangay Pass Boys’ School with more than 300 students. Increased ANP and ANA patrols have allowed the area to rebuild after years of war and civil strife.
“Increased security is making a difference in Oruzgan,” said Army Capt. Vanessa R. Bowman, Coalition force spokesperson. “The government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is committed to increasing security throughout the country and meeting the needs of its citizens. With ANA and ANP maintaining security, villagers feel safe and can live in relative peace.”