CAMP PHOENIX, Afghanistan, - “Healing hearts and minds” of the Afghan people is the motto of the Operation Outreach-Afghanistan (OOA) program achieved once again by U.S. Soldiers here, in partnership with Afghan National Army Soldiers, Aug. 31 as they participated in a humanitarian aid drop to a local orphanage in Kabul.
Six containers filled with toys, blankets, shoes, clothes and school supplies were delivered to the Afghan children who live at the Maihan Orphanage.
“I was so surprised to see them here delivering the gifts,” said Angela Nibler, Maihan Orphanage volunteer and Idaho native. “We saw the army vehicles and I was scared for a second, but once we realized what was going on we were so excited and grateful. The children are so happy.”
About 245 boys and girls who live at five different buildings throughout the orphanage are without a home due to loss of parents from the war, insufficient living conditions or simply because their parents cannot support them.
“Being part of Operation Outreach and going on the mission to the orphanage was the most fulfilling event of my tour so far,” said Michael Webb, company commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company 196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade of the South Dakota Army National Guard. “Working with Soldiers from other units, the ANA, and the Afghan locals in coordinating this event and coming together as a team for a common goal is really what it’s all about.”
Putting smiles on the children’s faces is something that OOA continues to do. Soldiers here volunteer their time throughout the week to ensure the program runs smoothly and the Afghan citizens receive the donations that American families send over here.
“That’s a big part of following the counterinsurgency strategy; assisting the Afghan population and helping to take care of their needs, especially the children,” said Webb. “The children’s faces said it all and is something I will never forget.”