10 November

Siesta Time In Afghanistan

When the going gets tough, the tough... have a snooze, as this young Afghan boy did during a recent visit to his home of a patrol from the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team.

Pictured with him is Lance Bombadier Dauwie Morgan who, with fellow PRT members, visited the boy's father, Ibrahim, for lunch and talks recently. Ibrahim is the head of a village in the Jolay Valley, which is part of the PRT's area of operations.

The youngster, whom his father described as a keen fan of the PRT, dressed in camouflage for the occasion, complete with Kiwi shoe polish labels attached to his outfit. But after playing with the soldiers, lunch, and listening to the talks, fatigue got the better of him and it was time for a nap.

PRT patrols regularly call on local leaders throughout the Bamian province in their effort to strengthen security and stability.

Patrol member Captain Cameron Stapleton said the meetings often involved family members, and the Kiwis were invariably welcomed "with open arms and complete trust. This valley in particular is a pleasure to visit as they always smile and welcome us. They treat us like old friends."

ENDS

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