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AFRC commander presents goods to Afghan girl, village

  • Published
  • By Capt Toni Tones
  • 455 Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan --  Representing a group of Americans who want to assist in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan, the commander of the Air Force Reserve Command presented several boxes of donated items to a 10-year-old Afghan girl and her village here May 30. 

Lt. Gen. John Bradley, on behalf of his wife Jan, presented housewares, clothing, shoes, toys and toiletries collected specifically for Lamia and the residents of Shakal Village, located near Bagram. 

General Bradley met Lamia this past winter while delivering humanitarian aid to her village. 

"She (Lamia) came up to me, pointed at her feet and said she wanted boots," he said. "I remember her face being chaffed...my heart went out to her...she is a very special little girl." 

General Bradley and his wife took a special interest in Lamia and began sending items to her and her village, to include a pair of boots. She also sent a personal letter to Lamia encouraging her to do her best and her desire to meet her one day. 

Mrs. Bradley has spearheaded several donation drives collecting thousands of pounds of supplies, destined for refugee camps, orphanages and hospitals throughout Southwest Asia. 

"There are many people, including me, who wish they could do more," said General Bradley. "Please accept these items and share them among the villagers." 

Lamia, Brig. Gen. Abdul Khalil Zaiee, Parwan chief of police, and an elder of the village thanked the general, and reciprocated with a gift. 

Since January 2008, more than 90 tons of humanitarian aid has been delivered to the people of Afghanistan who were affected by the worst winter in the last 30 years. But for Lamia and the Shakal villagers, there's a small group of Americans providing them a little extra assistance.