A graduate of the Afghan Local Police training course receives his certificate of completion from a local ALP commander during a graduation ceremony in Nowabad village, May 26. (Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Cassandra Thompson)
KUNDUZ PROVINCE, Afghanistan (May 30, 2012) — More than 100 men joined the ranks of the Kunduz province Afghan Local Police during a graduation ceremony in Nowabad village, May 26.
The ceremony concluded a three-week course instructed by Afghan National Army special forces soldiers and coalition advisers. The course covered basic policing procedures, patrolling, weapons handling, improvised explosive device detection and other skills necessary to help them secure their villages.
In attendance were the district’s chief of police, a provincial chief of police representative, district ALP leadership and coalition representatives.
The graduates received their certificates from the ALP commanders of their respective regions, who emphasized the confidence local leaders have in their ALP’s training and readiness.
“Our new graduates get a lot of energy from seeing all the ALP and coalition support they have,” said Arbab Aikal, the ALP commander in Nowabad. “They are really happy and are encouraged to serve their communities.”
This show of support was significant because the day before graduation, one student was killed by an unprovoked attack by insurgents on the training camp.
Trainee Abdul Rauf was injured when area insurgents attacked the combat outpost with rocket-propelled grenades. He was put on a medical evacuation by coalition forces, but died while being treated.
The students, led by ANASF soldiers, chanted his name at the end of the ceremony to honor his sacrifice.
Recent ALP graduate Ekra Muddin, from Qari Sap, said he looks forward to serving in his village, despite the challenges associated with securing the villages and insurgents attacks.
“I am very happy to join the ALP and serve my country and my society,” said Muddin. “I want to help create a more peaceful future for Afghanistan, so when I’m married and have kids, they can go to school, study and feel safe.”