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Airman helps make a difference in Afghanistan

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore
  • U.S. AFCENT News Team
QALAT, Afghanistan --  Since combat operations began in Afghanistan, U.S. Air Force Airmen have taken on new roles as the Global War on Terror evolves. Often, they're often called to fulfill roles traditionally held by their Army counterparts. 

Air Force Staff Sgt. Don Elias, deployed from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is a prime example. The sergeant joined the Air Force in 1998 and has served two tours in Iraq. He was looking for a new challenge, so the 88th Security Forces Squadron Airmen volunteered to deploy Afghanistan where he's taken on a key role in protecting the men and women assigned to the Zabul Provincial Reconstruction Team. 

"I wanted to go to Afghanistan to help make a difference in people's lives," said Sergeant Elias, PRT NCOIC of force protection. "I knew working with Army civil affairs would grant me this opportunity." 

At the Zabul PRT compound, Sergeant Elias serves as a convoy driver and provides security when the team conducts off-site missions - a role traditionally held by an Army Soldier. He is also responsible for training and managing the flight of Afghan Security Guards, who provide security for the compound. 

"I taught every guard basic entry controller and tower-guard duty responsibilities, personnel and vehicle searches [procedures], and weapons-qualification training," said the sergeant a native of Buffalo, N.Y. 

Additionally, Sergeant Elias taught guard commanders managerial and administrative skills. 

Sergeant Elias said he was surprised with the level of responsibility he was given on this deployment by his commander, Lt. Col. Bryce Brakeman. 

"I am kind of a believer in not digging to deep into everyone's business," said the colonel deployed from Travis Air Force Base, Calif. "I would rather let [my team] come up with their solutions and let me know what is going on. I let them take ownership in their projects and I support them." 

Sergeant Elias said he believes working closely with the Afghans has given him a unique perspective. 

"It's a good opportunity because it gives you a chance to look at the big picture," Sergeant Elias said. "To actually go out and see a world beyond the flightline is an experience like no other." 

He said his deployment to Afghanistan makes him feel honored to be part of the U.S. military. 

"I feel as if I am making a difference here in Afghanistan," he said. "I know that there is a lot of negative media about the war in Afghanistan, but I am faithful to the cause. It gives me great pleasure to have supported this mission. [What we do] gives people a sense of hope, and I feel like I'm making a difference in Afghanistan."