A combat medic assigned cradles two Afghan children during a women's clinic in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Panjwai District in western Kandahar Province, Afghanistan is known as the "birthplace of the Taliban" and widely considered to be the Taliban's spiritual home.

This is one of the most dangerous areas in Afghanistan and the New York Times recently reported that "clearing and securing [this area] is expected to change the entire balance of security in Kandahar Province." Because of this history, it is especially courageous for Afghans in this region to embrace the US military.

First Lieutenant (1LT) Tony Wang serving with a Brigade stationed near Panjwai wants to "give back" to local villagers who have shown support by providing much-needed necessities such as winter clothing, shoes, stoves, and more. He is particularly eager to help children who are often a barometer of how troops are received by the local community.

What does your donation buy?

• $500 buys 50 children's jackets
• $300 buys 50 pairs of boots
• $90 buys 20 soccer balls

ORIGINAL REQUEST

"I heard about the program from a fellow Soldier doing the same job as I. Any items that you may have would still be extremely helpful with our ongoing mission of stability...[and] help us in our efforts to assist the local government and populace.

Very respectfully,

1LT Tony Wang