BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (April 27, 2008) – Afghan National Army Commando students captured an insurgent and thwarted an insurgent attack, in Kapisa province, April 21.

Members of the newly minted 207th Commando Kandak performed a number of night-time air assault missions, resulting in the capture of one insurgent, numerous small weapons caches and IED materials.

“The Company air assaulted into the target area, occupied blocking positions and cleared the objective utilizing speed, surprise and violence of action,” said the Coalition Team Leader in charge of the Commando training.

Prior to their graduation, the Commandos trained for, planned and executed their own mission to demonstrate their ability to perform competently in combat.

“I feel that there is continual improvement due to the growing capability of the Commando training company, the Afghan cadre, as well as the attention that the program receives from key leaders in the Afghan National Army and the Ministry of Defense,” said a Special Forces commander.

“We do this for the people of Afghanistan, and my Commandos did well during training and working with [Coalition forces],” said the 207th Kandak first sergeant, after the mission.

Next, the Commandos will graduate training and perform strategic strikes against insurgents, with the support of Coalition forces.

“The capabilities of the Commando force enhance the security of the Afghan people, thus creating the opportunity for stability operations,” said the Special Forces commander. This will create an atmosphere for other organizations to initiate development projects, such as the opening of schools and government offices.

(Editors Note: It is Special Forces policy to not identify members below the rank of lieutenant colonel.)