Panjshir PRT transfers authority Published April 9, 2007 By 2nd Lt. J.D. Griffin Panjshir PRT PANJSHIR, Afghanistan -- Lt. Col. Chris Luedtke took command of the Panjshir Provincial Reconstruction Team from Lt. Col. Neal Kringel at the team's communication center in Panjshir, Afghanistan, April 7. The ceremony included both Army and Air Force service members with a variety of specialties that make up the incoming team. The PRT mission remains to assist the provincial government in improving security, governance and development projects in order to build confidence in the national government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. "It's no secret that the PRT is part of the progress Panjshir is making," said Colonel. Luedtke. "This is possible because of the strong relationships that have been made with the provincial leadership. "I had worked in Kabul with Gen. Bishmullah Khan, the Afghan National Army commander, on a previous deployment, and he used to tell me stories of the beauty in Panjshir. Now fortune has me leading a team here for a year, and we're ready to work." Panjshir Governor Haji Buhlol Bajig said the transition was both bitter and sweet for the valley. "In the name of God we welcome the new team and say goodbye to the old team," said Governor Buhlol. "We will give the new team our support but will also miss the old team because they had become part of Panjshir." The ceremony was officiated by Task Force Cincinnatus Commander Col. Jonathon Ives and attended by 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Christopher Miller, 755th Expeditionary Mission Support Group Commander Col. Jennifer Walter, and Panjshir provincial leaders. "I trust with Lt. Col. Luedtke's energy the people of Panjshir will continue their great progress on the path to development," said General Miller, "and the coalition and this PRT will continue to emphasize partnerships."