PRESS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES AFGHANISTAN Kabul, Afghanistan Phone: [phone]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 13, 2009

Release Number: 20091302-02

Note: For releases including photos, photos and cutlines appear within the attached release document; the individual photos are available upon request (no high resolution photos are available).

Afghan Commandos destroy IED in Paktya Province

Kabul, Afghanistan - Afghan National Army Commandos assisted by Coalition forces destroyed an improvised explosive device in the Zormat district, Paktya Province, Feb. 10.

The combined forces were conducting a combat reconnaissance patrol when the Commandos discovered an IED comprised of a pressure plate and a container filled with explosive material.

After conducting a search of the area, the Commandos destroyed the IED in place.

There were no reports or evidence of civilian casualties during the operation.

“The Commandos demonstrated their expertise which resulted in saving innocent Afghan civilians,” said Lt. Cmdr. Walter Matthews, a U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesperson. “The Afghan National Army continues to increase in size, taking the lead in operations that are bringing security to the Afghan people.”

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Cutlines:

Note: For releases including photos, photos and cutlines appear within the attached release document; the individual photos are available upon request (no high resolution photos are available).

20090210-01 Dept. of Defense (Released) An improvised explosive device site is pictured after being discovered by Afghan National Commandos in the Zormat district, Paktya Province,

Feb. 10.

20090210-02 Dept. of Defense (Released) An improvised explosive device site comprised of a pressure plate and a container filled with explosive material is discovered by Afghan National Commandos in the Zormat district, Paktya Province, Feb. 10.

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United States Forces Afghanistan's mission, in coordination with NATO's International Security Assistance Force, is to conduct operations to defeat terrorist networks and insurgents by developing effective governance and building the Afghan National Security Force. Effective security throughout the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan facilitates continued regional stability and increases economic development for the people of Afghanistan.

Contact Information - US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs Office

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Afghanistan

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