URUZGAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan (Jan. 22, 2013) -- Since 2009, the South District has been building infrastructure to promote security and stability in Badghis, Daykundi, Farah, Ghor, Helmand, Herat, Kandahar, Nimroz, Uruzgan and Zabul provinces here.
As commander of the Afghanistan Engineer District-South, Col. Vincent Quarles has visited most of the major projects under his charge including large-scale, multi-phase projects in Deh Rawood and neighboring Tarin Kowt, both in Uruzgan. The projects are the future homes of two battalions of the Afghan National Army 4th Brigade 205th Atal "Hero" Corps. When complete, the installation will include arch-span type construction as well as some concrete masonry units, roads, training areas, medical clinics, fitness centers, motor pools, fuel points, dining facilities, armories and many other features common at military garrisons.
"This project is significant to Afghanistan's national security because once complete, it will serve as a base of operations for more than 4,000 Afghan soldiers who have pledged to serve and protect everyday citizens," said Quarles. "The installation and presence of Afghan soldiers may also prevent violence and provide the 320,000 residents of Uruzgan with a stronger sense of safety and security."
Another added benefit of this project is that several local workers are employed thereby contributing to economic development in the province. To make sure contractors are building the garrison in an expeditious manner and according to plans and specifications, quality assurance and construction representative Daniel O'Connell of the South District visits the project site daily. He takes his quality assurance job seriously, and it's a job he has enjoyed for more than three decades, he said.
O'Connell is a former U.S. Army first sergeant who has built facilities all over the world including some in Germany and Nigeria. Within the bounds of his authority, he makes sure contractors comply with plans and specifications, checks to see that workmanship is adequate and when he witnesses an unsafe working condition, shuts down construction to address the problem.
"We want to build these facilities quickly and in compliance with designs and specs, and we will not sacrifice safety or quality, he said.
Related Links:
Afghanistan Engineer District - South
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