Commander reports on Guard effort

(JOHNSTON)–Soldiers from Troop C in Le Mars and their fellow guard members are facing a dangerous enemy in Afghanistan.

That’s the view of Col. Ben Corell who commands the 2nd Brigade Combat team, 34th Infantry and briefed media, including KLEM Radio News, today.

Answering questions from Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. Col. Corell described the enemy as evil and ruthless.
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Rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) are the most common weapon the troops face.
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For guard members who were in Iraq, the commander says the difference between the countries is infrastructure. The American forces often operate from trails.

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He encourages Iowans to continue to send letters and care packages after the holidays. Efforts are made to provide mail even to the most remote forces once, if not twice, a week. He says the soldiers ask for more cell phone and internet contact and efforts are being made to meet their requests.