Today I was hoping to describe all the fascinating people I have met so far, and to offer you my thoughts about living in such a great international environment; however, we were in a state of shock a few hours ago when the Taliban launched coordinated attacks on several Afghan government buildings, some just blocks from our our base. Nineteen people were killed, with many more wounded. We on base are safe, and most of us didn't even hear the attacks. It was startling, nonetheless, to know that deadly bombings were happening in such close proximity. We went on a state of alert, locking down the base and requiring all personnel to wear body armor when outdoors.
Now, I really feel planted in a dangerous a war zone. Let us hope that our efforts will lead to a more peaceful Afghanistan. For now, those of us here working to improve the lives of the Afghan people face daily risk.
Here is a link to a story on the attacks:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/12/world/asia/12afghan.html?hp
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Yeah, this was the first story on NPR this morning. Looks like you and Richard Holbrooke are getting a pretty scary welcome to town. Then again, maybe the chaos isn't always far away from here. I saw the news from Mexico where 20-some people were murdered by a drug gang yesterday (again), how the police are resigning, and now they're speculating on news shows about whether Mexico could become a "failed state" too.
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Glad you're OK. Stay safe, Adam.
ReplyDeleteLike JessieinDC, I heard it first on NPR this morning. I immediately thought of you and your office's proximity to the blast. Glad to here that on base you were safe. Keep us update. Mark Cal
ReplyDeleteHappy Valentine's Day!
ReplyDeleteIt was so good to hear that you arrived in Afghanistan safely, and to know that you are safe on base. Your Italian roomate, Francesco, has got to be the guy with you in the pic, he looks very Italian with that warm smile. Tell him that I had an experience I will never forget visiting Pompeii in Naples. Take care and God bless you all and keep you safe.
Betty Pierce