Winning with Afghans by Matt Hall
From December 5, 2012 to August 2, 2013, the First Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) deployed to Kunar, Nangarhar and Nuristan Provinces in eastern Afghanistan. This marked the Bastogne Brigade’s fifth combat deployment since September 11th, 2001 and their second deployment to this area. As one of the first Security Force Assistance Brigades in the US Army, their mission focused on the development and mentorship of Afghan National Security Forces. Through their advisory role, Bastogne Soldiers enabled their Afghan allies to confront their adversaries with confidence and skill in one of the most complex and dangerous regions of Afghanistan. The Bastogne Brigade’s success led to one of the most dramatic changes in Eastern Afghanistan since the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom, as upon its departure, Afghan Security Forces assumed the lead in security and shared sacrifice for their nation’s continued freedom.
The Story
Based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, the 1st Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division, “the Bastogne Brigade,” stands to deploy within thirty-six hours worldwide to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver to destroy or capture him, or to repel his assault by fire, close combat or counterattack.
Tracing its lineage back to the 327th Infantry Regiment, founded in 1917, the unit was received the honor of three Presidential Unit Citations, two Valorous Unit Awards, and two Meritorious Unit Commendations.
This print depicts the Combined Team Bastogne, as a Security Forces Advise and Assist Brigade, in action with their Afghan counterparts during the unit’s return to Nangarhar and Kunar Provinces in 2013. During the Brigade’s tenure, Afghan National Security Forces assumed control of this volatile region, as Coalition Forces transferred responsibilities and bases to the ANSF. Combined Team Bastogne departed in late 2013, entrusting the safety of the area and their legacy to their Afghan security force partners.