November 25, 2009

Today was the graduation for the 3rd class of our Project Afghan Language (PAL). A total of 11 students graduated. 17 students started out, but 6 students from the Afghan National Army (ANA) decided to take two months leave a week prior to the graduation. It was so difficult to see these soldiers go without completing the course. I could not understand their behaviors, but there was nothing I could do for what had already been done.

They left without any discussion or notice; I just wish the best for them. However, we still had 2 ANA soldiers (graduates) in our class who thought this class was more important than taking vacation. Good job, guy!

Each and every student studied hard. Some are carpenters, some are masons, and some are soldiers. Their daily works are labor intense, and I know they are physically and even mentally tired; but they attended the class for 2 hours every morning for last 5 weeks. That itself was worth rewarding them. They well deserved these certificates of completion and small gifts.

Dr. Rafi led the ceremony, CPT Kramer, CPT Bassir, and I presented the certificates, awards, and gifts.

11 graduated and three received following special awards:
1. The Most Improved Student Award
2. The Most Effort Student Award
3. The Best Student Award

I started off my speech, saying “Living away from one’s family for a year is a difficult thing to do, but I have to say, I had a wonderful year in Afghanistan. It probably was because I made many good friends here…”

Every word I said was true and sincere. I really had a wonderful time here and greatly appreciate the hospitality of many Afghan friends showed me.

Towards the end of the ceremony, CPT Kramer surprised me with an award called, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM). It was an honor to receive such a rare award. I learned that this is an award really rarely given to active service members. I am very honored for such a worthy medal.

After the graduation, I shared the joy with Dr. Rafi and Asad; they deserve this award more than I do, because they were the main engines driving through. Without them, I could not have done these. They were the real bridges between me and the people of Afghanistan. Dr. Rafi always went way beyond his way to get real stories for me even when he was ill. Dr. Rafi and Asad have been supporting me selflessly.

I love them dearly as my brothers, and we will continue to help the poor and needed people in Afghanistan. There are bigger projects planned ahead of us, and I know that we will work our best to make them successful. There are 42 % of Afghan widows and females suffering and begging on streets due to severe poverty.

Thank you so much for your encouragement with the honorable medal, CPT Kramer, and congratulations to all my good friends of 3rd PAL class graduates!

** Asad was on mission, so he could not have been with us for the graduation.