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© 2013 KentuckyGuard
Story by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann, ADT 5 Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
Col. Bob Hayter, commander of Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 presents Ginger Munden the Family Readiness Award during the unit’s Yellow Ribbon Program in Louisville, Ky., Dec. 14, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Just like the Soldiers and Airmen in the Kentucky National Guard, a Family Readiness Group is a unit. The FRG’s mission is to provide support not only to the deploying troops, but unto themselves. Families unite together for meetings and workshops that focus on addressing stress, issues regarding finances or children, or just coming together to talk about the good things and make morale packages for the Soldiers.
Ginger Munden served as the Family Readiness Group leader for Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 during the unit’s deployment to Afghanistan in 2012-2013. ADT 5’s leadership presented her with the Family Readiness Award during the unit’s Yellow Ribbon ceremony, Dec. 15, 2013.
Members of the unit returned home in September, but due to logistical issues the Soldiers and Airmen arrived at different times and locations. The scattered return didn’t detract from the families awaiting them at the gates of the airports.
Master Sgt. Connie Gwinn is greeted by her grandchildren at Louisville International Airport upon her return home from Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2013. Members of Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 spent nearly a year in Afghanistan and is the last scheduled ADT for the Kentucky Guard(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
“It feels good to know I have such an amazingly supportive family. I was proud of being a part of a great team, but I am definitely glad to be home now,” said Master Sgt. Connie Gwinn, who was met with an entourage of family members.
Supportive families have said to be the key to a successful deployment for military units and Munden wanted just that for the men, women and families of ADT 5 in running the FRG
“FRG teaches families they are not alone and are aware of the benefits available, share in frustrations and life changes, and group events like Red Cross training,” she said. “It was a great experience, and I could not have done it without the support and help of the Service members’ families.”
Col. Bob Hayter and Lt. Col. Dallas F. Kratzer presented Ginger with an etched glass memento containing the iconic National Guard minuteman figure.
Hayter praised the efforts of Ginger and the families by saying, “The FRG was the full-time connection to home. With the morale packages the FRG team had put together, it made the deployment more manageable and served as a reminder we were well thought of in our absence.”
Other family members were recognized as well for their efforts and participation in events such as Ralene Kratzer, Heather Steele and their three children, and Lynn and Sarah Fox.
Unfortunately, Sgt. Maj. Munden was away for training in Texas for his newly acquired position with the Wounded Warrior Transition Unit at Fort Knox. However, the ceremony was ended with his signature slow but strong clap by the entire unit, noting the profound respect the team had for him and his wife, Ginger.
ADT 5 was a joint operation consisting of both Air and Army National Guard members. During the nine months they were able to rebuild relationships between the people and their government by implementing programs such as the Youth Agriculture program and strengthened the current veterinary services. Among those programs, local farmers increased their management and marketing skills to be able to bring in more money for their community.
“Our team members served with honor, discipline, and integrity,” said Sgt. Maj. Munden prior to the ceremony. “Their performance was outstanding and their efforts brought hope to the people of Afghanistan. I am very proud to have been a member of this team.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann, ADT 5 Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear presents Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 with the Governor’s Outstanding Unit Citation during the Joint Force Headquarters’ Christmas dinner held at the Capital Plaza hotel in Frankfort, Ky., Dec. 7. ADT5 was rewarded for their outstanding meritorious unit performance during their deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky National Guard has sent five agriculture development teams to Afghanistan since 2007. In support of Operation Enduring Freedom, the teams strived to improve the capabilities of local farmers across Afghanistan with a unique approach to the civilians in a country at war. The Soldiers and Airmen took knowledge of irrigation, food preservation and veterinary medicine to the people. Skills that would prove just as important as the Service members’ military training.
In October of 2013, that mission came to an end as the final Kentucky ag team safely returned from their deployment.
Col. Bob Hayter presents Capt. Forrest Holdsworth of Agribusiness Development Team 5 the Governor’s Outstanding Unit Citation in Louisville, Ky., Dec. 13, 2013. Each member of the unit received the awards which was presented by Governor Steve Beshear a week earlier. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
In recognition of the team’s lasting work in Afghanistan, Agribusiness Development Team 5 was awarded the Governor’s Outstanding Unit Citation Dec. 7, 2013. Governor Steve Beshear presented the unit commander, Col. Bob Hayter with the award during the governor’s annual Christmas luncheon with military families in Frankfort.
One week later, Hayter shared the award with the 38 other members of the ADT 5 at the unit’s Yellow Ribbon event in Louisville, Dec. 15.
“It was a great tour for me and is a tremendous honor to be recognized for what we were able to accomplish in Afghanistan,” said Hayter. “I am thankful and fortunate to have been a part of this mission as my last deployment before I retire. If the team takes anything away from this mission, it was a combination of leadership, division, correction and execution that made us a success.”
To see more photos from the award ceremony, click here.
ADT 5 is only the second unit to received the citation since its inception in 2007. The 201st Engineers received the first in 2012.
The award was established to acknowledge a unit’s contribution to the mission for which they were deployed. ADT 5 certainly fit the bill as they were able to build a veterinary clinic, establish a youth agribusiness program and provide long lasting skills and resources to continue to expand and enrich many surrounding communities in Afghanistan.
Master Sgt. Zakiya Taylor, an Air National Guardsman from Louisville served as a project manger for ADT 5. She said the award validates the hard work of the unit.
“The deployment was a rewarding experience,” she said. “I was able to work with some amazing young people who were in charge of their villages, but were hungry for knowledge and skills. Receiving this award brings the meaning of our mission to life by Governor Beshear’s acknowledgement.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann, ADT 5 Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
Master Sgt. Zakiya Taylor with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 stands with the daughter of a woman attending a canning class in Zaharay District, Afghanistan. The class, facilitated by U.S. Service members was a refresher course for local women to preserve foods for their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
ZAHARAY DISTRICT, Afghanistan — Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team 5 has completed many projects with this humanitarian mission here in Regional Command South, Afghanistan. One project they became a part of was a canning class facilitated by a U.S. Army Female Engagement Team from Fort Bliss, Texas.
The FET coordinated the location and ensured the information got out to the local women about the class. Master Sgt. Zakiya Taylor of ADT 5 provided the instructor from Kandahar City and distributed the supplies, which included the steam pot, funnels, ladles, jars, jar lifters, and sealers.
“With the supplies, we were able to provide approximately 40 local Afghan women with the tools and knowledge necessary to begin canning fruits and vegetables in their own homes,” said Taylor, ADT 5’s food preservation specialist.
Reinforcing the idea of Afghans teaching Afghans, the team contracted with a young Afghan woman, Laila Afag, from Kandahar City to teach the classes. A successful business woman in her own right, Afag co-owns three canning factories in the city and is an expert in teaching canning techniques for fruits and vegetables. Additionally, six of the women were teachers in the local area and would be able to pass along what they had learned in the class to others. Interestingly, one of the local teachers is a fifteen year old girl from Zharay, she was one of the few that could read, write and understand the material. The teachers were excited to display their educational skills and Afag allowed the teachers to assist her in presenting to the class.
“The canning supplies we were able to provide will be for home use and the demonstration classes given by Laila Afag will help the women preserve their produce,” said Taylor. “This makes them not only marketable in the future, but a sustainable tool to pass down to future generations.”
Since refrigeration and cold storage is not readily available in many of the local homes here, being able to store foods for longer periods of time is essential for the survival of the people.
Afag was highly motivated and proud she could extend her knowledge and services to this project.
“It is an easy craft; one they can pass down from one generation to the next,” she said. “They will be able to can and preserve a large variety of food if done correctly. The knowledge is there, because it is popular in this area.”
Female Soldiers with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 gather for a group photo with women and children in the Zaharay District, Afghanistan. The Afghan women attended a canning class while some Soldiers helped with a children’s class. (Courtesy photo)
It is important to note these women are familiar with the process; however, the value-added is having the proper tools and focusing on sanitary techniques.
The class included the process of paste canning, pickling and fruits preserving. Each woman was provided a handout to follow along with during the presentation. The material was presented at a very basic level, which provided beginners a jumpstart on making quality preserves without studying the science of preserving. The women were very interested in participating and learning about the canning process. Afterward, many women stated they felt confident and certain they could effectively implement these techniques at home.
A high note of the event was when the Zharay District Governor, Sayeed Ashina Agha, and Director Bismullah Khan, District Education Representative, came on the last day of training to recognize the women and give them encouragement and support for their participation. Even though the Taliban threats occur and transportation is not always an option to get to Forward Operating Base Pasab, these women truly risk their lives to take advantage of the programs provided for them.
“There is nothing like seeing their smiling faces and knowing the team has done something these women will take with them for the rest of their lives,” said Taylor.
Story by 1st Lt. Dwight Bushong and Sgt. Jamie Pungirum, ADT 5
Col. Bob Hayter, left, commander of Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 congratulates Sgt. Zachary Leidecker at Forward Operating Base Pasab, Afghanistan, following the completion of Leidecker’s 100th combat mission in country, July, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Jamie Pungirum)
FORWARD OPERATING BASE PASAB, Afghanistan — It was a day like every other, with the blazing sun searing down on the arid earth below causing temperatures to soar to one hundred and eight degrees. For Sgt. Zackery Leidecker of Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5, the day marked a great accomplishment and success for not only him, but for the entire team.
On this day, Leidecker was the first member of the ADT 5 to complete his 100th combat patrol in Kandahar Province of Southern Afghanistan. The unit as a whole conducted more than 190 missions while in the country.
Leidecker served in multiple positions during his tour of duty that included truck commander, gunner, dismount security, and personal security detachments.
Sgt. Zachary Leidecker with Agribusiness Development Team 5 pauses behind his vehicle prior to a mission in the Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, July, 2013. Leidecker participated in more than half the unit’s combat mission while deployed, serving as driver, gunner and security. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Jamie Pungirum)
“As the platoon leader, I cannot be more proud of his accomplishments while on the team,” said 1st Lt. Dwight Bushong. “He is a Soldier that is always taking the first step forward to get the mission accomplished, no matter the task.”
To see more photos from this story, click here.
“In my eyes as an Army officer and a leader of Soldiers, I see a bright future for this young non-commissioned officer,” said Bushong. “I look forward to seeing his continued success in the Kentucky Army National Guard. I would gladly have him as part of my combat team any day.”
When asked about how he feels about this day, Leidecker replied humbly, “I feel very accomplished, but there is no way I could have done this alone.”
This is not Leidecker’s first combat tour on foreign lands where he was part of great things. According to him, on his last deployment to Iraq with the 2113th Transportation Company, his truck crew completed the most missions in the unit. When inquired as to what his favorite position to work in was, he stated simply, “I have no preference on what I do on mission, as long as I can be a part of the mission, I’m happy.”
“He has played a vital role as a gunner. Ninety percent of the time he was the gunner of the lead truck, always ready and on his toes for whatever may come,” said Sgt. 1st Class Richard Harris, Leidecker’s platoon sergeant.
As the lead truck gunner, it is Leidecker’s eyes that were the first to spot anything the convoy may have came across. He was constantly on the lookout for potential threats including improvised explosive devices, complex ambushes, or just the ever constant jumble of traffic in downtown Kandahar City.
However, Leidecker’s real potential seems to become more obvious after speaking with Pvt. John Amis. The young Soldier is first to acknowledge Leidecker’s willingness to step up as a mentor and teacher.
“He is a great example for us lower enlisted,” said Amis. “He shows if you put the time and effort in something you will be rewarded. More importantly for most of us, he has taught us our job from the ground up.”
“When I came to the team, I really didn’t know what it was going to be like being a gunner on combat patrols. With his guidance and leadership, it has made me a better gunner and a better Soldier.”
Story by Sgt. Matthew Thomason, Agribusiness Development Team 5
Tech Sgt. Jessie Johnson speaks to members of Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team 5 about her dog Crash and his abilities as an attack and bomb dog at Forward Operating Base Pasab, Afghanistan, June 20, 2013. The Military Working Dog Team is utilized to assist ADT 5 in clearing areas quickly when business is being conducted outside of the wire in the villages and farms. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Lt. Col. Dallas Kratzer)
FORWARD OPERATING BASE PASAB, Afghanistan- The afternoon sun was beating down as soldiers from Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team 5, gathered for training conducted by Military Working Dog Teams in order to better understand their counterparts and the abilities they possess. Since their arrival to country, ADT5 has been utilizing the invaluable asset of the MWD teams and has established a great working relationship with the handlers and their dogs. Today would be a lesson to remember, as members of ADT5 would now gain a greater understanding of the professionalism and dedication of both the handlers and the dogs themselves.
The training began with a demonstration of the capabilities of the dogs in finding explosives. C4, a high explosive, was buried in a large search area out of the view of the MWD’s. Dart, a black Labrador, was let off his leash by his handler and the search began. Within a matter of minutes, Dart had found the buried explosives and lay down, a signal to his handler he had found something.
Staff Sgt. Matthew Nicholson is pinned down by Crash, Tech Sgt.
Jessie Johnson’s loyal companion during an exercise at Forward Operating Base Pasab, Afghanistan, June 20, 2013. The dog is trained to keep a detainee in place until further instructed to release his hold.(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Lt. Col. Dallas Kratzer)
“I’ve been on six deployments and this is the first time I’ve worked with Military Working Dogs,” said Sgt. 1st Class Richard Harris, Security Forces platoon sergeant. “Personally, I prefer dog teams because it allows me to move much faster when dismounted. Handlers train and work together every day, so it makes it easy to use different teams each mission.”
The biggest threat the International Security Assistance Forces face in Afghanistan is the Improvised Explosive Device and MWD teams are a great asset in defeating the IED threat. ISAF forces utilize MWD teams on a regular basis to clear areas of IED’s before allowing the security personnel to move into the area. MWD teams are essentially on the front lines of any mission. ADT5 uses MWD teams in the same capacity. When asked how the absence of MWD’s would affect the mission, Staff Sgt. Robert Denham, Security Forces Team Leader said it’s the fastest way to clear an area of threats.
“The mission would be impacted greatly because of the excessive time it would take to clear (the area) and the strain it puts on the dismounted security,” he said. “There is no tool, other than the Military Working Dog, as versatile and able to take on anything the mission throws at them.”
ADT5 soldiers were given a demonstration of obedience where the dogs were given many commands to follow and responded accordingly, proving just how much control the handlers have. Then came the main event: bite training. Many of these dogs serve a dual purpose, in that, they can search for explosives and are trained to attack. The troops were given a great demonstration of the power these dogs have and capped off the training day by volunteering to train with the dogs.
1st Lt. Clint Bushong of Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 tries to get away from Crash, a military working dog during a demonstration at Forward Operating Base Pasab, Afghanistan, June 20, 2013. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Lt. Col. Dallas Kratzer)
Spc. Morgan Vinson, a Security Forces team member, was the first brave soul to volunteer to be attacked by one of the dogs. He donned a protective jacket and was given a quick safety brief by one of the handlers. He then participated in several role plays where he played an aggressor and was suppressed by the MWD. One such role play was a situation where Vinson was a suspect who decided to run from the Military Police. The dog waited patiently until instructed by the handler to attack. Like a flash of lightning, the dog bolted after Vinson, quickly catching up and latching onto his arm. The power of the dog biting Vinson’s arm was enough to knock him off his feet.
“It’s like a strong force hitting you, but I knew I was protected by the suit,” said Vinson about his experience. “I felt very confident in the dog’s ability and it helped me realize the ability and obedience of the dogs. It was pretty cool.”
At the end of the day it seemed that everyone had a new respect for the dogs and their handlers. It was also a fun way to incorporate training with entertainment. The day ended with a group picture and lots of petting and wagging tails.
After all, what dog doesn’t like a little attention?
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann, ADT 5 Unit Public Affairs/Historian Representative
Staff Sgt. Matthew Nicholson with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 instructs local farmers on the operation of a tractor at the Zharay District Education Center in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, June, 2013. The instruction was a refresher course from previous lessons given by ADT 4 in 2012.(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
FORWARD OPERATING BASE PASAB, Afghanistan — The Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team 5 has worked diligently in maintaining working relationships with the surrounding areas of interest. The Zharay District Education Center or ZDEC is one of our closest ongoing projects. On this particular day, Tech. Sgt. Nathan Steele and 1st Lt. Ben Maillet recruited the assistance of our mechanics to come demonstrate a refresher course on how to use tractors for harvesting.
The Changchai is called a “walker” or “walk behind” tractor that has attachments serving different purposes. Since it is the season for harvesting their wheat, it is important the local farmers are comfortable working the equipment. Staff Sgt. Matthew Nicholson and Sgt. Johnathan Jones combined their skills to demonstrate how to start the tractor as well has how to safely operate the equipment and use of the gears while in motion.
“It was nice to use my abilities outside of the unit’s needs to assist the agribusiness team and actively contribute to the local farmers’ success,” said Nicholson, ADT 5’s motor sergeant.
Staff Sgt. Matthew Nicholson (left) and Sgt. Jonathan Jones, both with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 test the gear of a walk-behind tractor during a refresher course for local farmers in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, June, 2013. The Soldiers enjoyed the opportunity to put their personal skills from home at work on deployment. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
“At home, I really enjoy riding my tractor on the farm,” said Jones. “I never thought I would get to use my personal skills to aid this mission. It’s nice to have the chance to operate outside of my normal duties within the security forces and contribute to the agribusiness team.”
This mission is a continuation of the tractor safety training conducted with the ZDEC last year when ADT 4 was managing this location.
Click here for the ADT 4 story.
“We noticed the ZDEC workers were not utilizing all of the equipment available to maximize the amount harvested in a shorter period of time,” said Steele. “For example, it takes 2 or 3 weeks to harvest the wheat they currently have by hand, but if they were to use the Changchai, they could quite possibly complete the harvesting in one or two days. The intent is to ensure they know what the equipment can do for them.”
As ADT 5’s support is coming to a close, it is important to the team to leave behind a positive imprint and encourage the locals to continue to maximize their exporting abilities as well as build up the relationship between themselves and the Afghanistan government.
Editor’s Note: Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann, from Owensboro, Ky., is a signal support system specialist with the 149th Brigade Support Battalion in Louisville. Originally from Texas, Hoffmann moved to Kentucky after Basic Combat Training to pursue her education. She recently graduated with her bachelor’s degree in human resource management while deployed to Afghanistan with Agribusiness Development Team 5.
Commentary by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann, Agribusiness Development Team 5
Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 recently graduated with her college degree from Ashford University while deployed to Afghanistan. Hoffmann’s father accepted her diploma during the school’s commencement in Moline, Ill., May 5, 2013. (Courtesy photo)
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan -Many Soldiers choose to join the military for a number of reasons: building of skills and abilities, supporting the war, better life for their families, fitness goals and education opportunities. In my personal experience, I joined the National Guard for a few reasons. The biggest reason was to ensure I could obtain my education without the financial support of my family and take responsibility for my future.
I was awarded my Associate’s in Arts with emphasis in Music and Art History at a community college hoping to pursue my Music Business degree at Eastern Kentucky University. After spending a year on campus, I needed a change. I enjoyed EKU, but I was struggling financially and I had lost the passion to follow my dreams in the music industry.
After dropping out of college in 2007 to work full time, I realized I needed to refocus and take a hard look at what I wanted out of my education. I decided to volunteer to deploy to Iraq and start school online while I was in country. Like most Soldiers, I came up with every excuse why I did not have the time to get started. After I returned from deployment, I determined I had procrastinated enough and started searching www.militaryonesource.mil for a suitable university.
I found Ashford University, called to get set up and the rest is history. The benefits of Ashford were astronomical compared to what I had experienced in the past. They have a veteran’s program that waves all of the tuition fees, the credit hour was no more than $250, and the electronic books were free and downloadable. It is an incredible resource enabling a student to access classes and books all from a laptop or phone while on the go. The class requirements are ideal for traveling and stationary Soldiers, the instructors are highly knowledgeable and flexible, and (best of all) many class mates are people just like you.
It took me a little over three years to finish my bachelor’s in human resource management. I was able to take breaks in between and my advisor always helped me get right back on track. GoArmyEd has also come a long way since it was established. Ashford is very familiar with the student voucher process, the transactions, and transcript updates. All are completed between Ashford University and the Kentucky National Guard’s education department.
Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann (right) with Sgt. Jamie Pungirum, both with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 in Afghanistan. (Courtesy photo)
As I was coming to the end of my degree, I knew it would be a challenge to maintain my high GPA while going through pre deployment training as well as turning in assignments on time. Not once did I have an issue meeting the requirements. One day, while waiting my turn to qualify on the M9 and M16 range, I responded to my classmates through my phone using the Ashford University Application. That’s just an example of how easy it is to make it happen.
I finished my degree this past February with a 3.84 GPA, graduated with honors, and became a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda. I really wanted to attend or at least participate in my graduation somehow from Afghanistan. With the eager assistance from Ashford, they asked me to find a proxy to go in my place, and they would take care of the expenses. They made my father and my grandfather feel right at home. As I watched the video of the ceremony from Afghanistan, I became emotional and in awe of the profound sound of the audience cheering when they announced my name and explained why my father was accepting my degree. The feeling of accomplishing one of my major goals in life is a relief and both my family and I were able to take part in it together.
Click here to see the story of Hoffmann’s father accepting her diploma.
My message to the Soldiers out there is to give education a chance. Ashford University is one of the many military supporting universities out there, but it all starts with the individual. Forget the excuses, how much it costs, and make the time. If you want it bad enough, MAKE IT HAPPEN. There are so many resources and support systems to help a Soldier increase their education.
It is never too late to start and you will be surprised in the amount of pride you will hold for yourself when you receive that diploma.
Story courtesy of Ashford University
Tom Hoffmann receives an Ashford University diploma on behalf of his daughter, Sidney, who is currently serving in Afghanistan. (PRNewsFoto/Ashford University)
SAN DIEGO -- A special pin complemented Tom Hoffmann’s cap and gown as he waited eagerly to cross the stage with nearly 1,200 graduates at the Ashford University spring commencement ceremony held earlier this month in Moline, Ill. The pin, which was given to him by his daughter Sidney Hoffmann just before she was deployed, was a yellow ribbon with a blue star banner pendant, indicating you have a child actively serving in the military. Tom traveled to commencement from just outside of Dallas to accept a diploma on behalf of Sidney, who is serving in the armed forces (Kentucky National Guard) in Afghanistan.
“It’s very exciting to be able to be a part of your child’s graduation, but to get it for her while she is serving our country is an honor,” said Mr. Hoffmann. “Like any father, I pushed her to complete her education and continued to push even when she was deployed. This is a big milestone. She was committed to getting a degree as well as serving her country.”
Tom Hoffmann accepts his daughter’s diploma during commencement ceremony in Moline, Ill., May 17, 2013. (Photo courtesy of Ashford University)
Sidney, 29, completed her bachelor’s degree in human resources management with magna cum laude honors. She began her college career at a traditional university; however, Ashford University’s progressive online platforms provided Sidney the flexibility necessary to continue her educational pursuits while being deployed overseas.
“This truly was a rewarding experience,” said Sidney. “The distance learning program allowed me the ease of working a full time job while providing the flexibility to participate on time with my classmates and instructors. I really appreciate everything Ashford has done for me and my family. I am truly grateful to the faculty and staff that made it possible for my father to take part in this momentous occasion.”
In a private ceremony prior to graduation, Ashford University President Dr. Richard Pattenaude presented Mr. Hoffmann with a challenge coin to present to Sidney when she returns home.
Click here to see the video of Mr. Hoffman accepting Sidney’s diploma.
Story and photos by Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Wilbanks, 1st Armored Division Public Affairs
Lt. Col. Dallas Kratzer with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 assists with a demonstration for local farmers to show the proper methods of preserving fruit in Kandahar, Afghanistan, March 10, 2013. The project was in cooperation with the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Wilbanks)
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan — The Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team (KPRT) demonstrated a better fruit drying method for Afghan farmers at Camp Nathan Smith March 10, 2013.
This solar-powered fruit dryer could help the Afghans preserve fruit in a more sanitary fashion that is also faster than the traditional method used by Afghan farmers.
But it’s not just about a faster method for John E. Loyd, an agricultural advisor for the USDA and member of the KPRT.
“This is not only a better method, it also is much more sanitary and effective. It also will produce a marketable product for the Afghans. It’s just a better technique that gives a better yield.”
The traditional method used by Afghans was a single sheet of plastic or metal that the fruit was laid on to dry. The solar-powered boxes built by the KPRT allow for multiple layers to be stacked on top of each other. It reduces the time from five days to about three days. The box also keeps insects out, which makes for a much more sanitary product.
Lt. Col. Dallas Kratzer with Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 discusses the operation of a solar dyer for drying fruit during a demonstration for local farmers in Kandahar, Afghanistan, March 10, 2013. Afghan farmers on average lose 40 percent of their crops because of poor methods in preservation. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Wilbanks)
This allows the Afghans to retain more of their harvest and produce a product that can be sold in neighboring countries. Most of the dried fruit produced in Afghanistan currently would not pass inspection to be sold internationally due to the way it is dried. The solar boxes will help remedy that as well as prevent waste.
“About 40 percent of what the Afghans grow is lost to spoilage and this is a way to prevent that,” said Air Force Lt. Col. Dallas F. Kratzer II, the Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team Liaison Officer to the KPRT.
This will also help supplement the diet of the people of Afghanistan through the winter
“They don’t have cold or cool storage normally, but by drying the fruit it retains a lot of the nutrients,” said Kratzer. “It’s a way to have sustainable nutrition throughout the year.”
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Kristen Duus, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division
Sgt. Maj. David Munden, Kentucky Agri-business Development Team noncommissioned officer in charge and Sgt. Eric Schenck, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division chaplain’s assistant, help soldiers from the Afghan National Army with supplies at Forward Operating Base Pasab, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, March 17. The brigade chaplain, along with ADT 5, participated in Operation Love Thy Neighbor, which provides clothes and school supplies to the ANA to pass to local villages. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Kristen Duus)
FORWARD OPERATING BASE PASAB, Afghanistan — What happens when you have a team of educators who deploy to a country that only has a 17 percent literacy rate? Those educators set out to change those numbers.
The Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team, a National Guard unit, deployed to Kandahar province, Afghanistan, participated in Operation Love Thy Neighbor at Forward Operating Base Pasab, March 17.
Air Force Lt. Col. Dallas Kratzer, the Kentucky ADT deputy commander, and a native of Lawrenceburg, Ky., worked in conjunction with the 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division chaplain to provide clothes and school supplies to the Afghan National Army through the Afghan Religious and Cultural Affairs, who in turn distribute the supplies to local villages.
Lt. Col. Abdul Ghani, the chief of RCA, 3rd Brigade, 205th Corps, ANA, appreciated the donations from the soldiers.
One of the biggest things for Afghanistan is now, with the United States’ help, the ANA has accomplished a lot, said Ghani. They have also progressed a lot in the education aspect as far as teaching soldiers and helping the villages and locals.
“This is truly an Afghan to Afghan thing,” said Kratzer. “All we’re doing is facilitating the materials. We’re equipping them with school supplies so their kids have an interest in being taught, learning and improving what they have.”
The supplies, which have all been donated, are set to foster a more positive relationship with the local Afghan citizens and the ANA, said Kratzer.
Sgt. Eric Schenck, 1/1 AD chaplain’s assistant, and a native of Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., works closely with the Afghan RCA teams. Schenck helps receive, inspect, store and deliver the donations to the ANA. Schenck also coordinated with the ADT, who immediately jumped on board.
“This is a win-win for all,” said Schenck. “The fact that it is the ANA giving the items fosters positive feelings and will help build supportive sentiments.”
“It feels to directly improve the living conditions here in Afghanistan,” said Schenck. “It hurts to see so many people living in poverty. I want to help somehow and this is a great way to do some good while I’m deployed.”
Kratzer concluded by emphasizing that this project was to build relationships, not just between Americans and Afghans, but also with the ANA and locals.
“In everything that we do, we want to build sustainability to help foster something that will continue on,” said Kratzer. “It’s not about giveaways. It’s about relationships.”
