BAGRAM, Afghanistan - During his recent visit to Afghanistan, chief of engineers, Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Bostick, not only received informative mission update briefings but, he also recognized several Soldiers and civilians for their efforts supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Bostick met with U.S. and Afghan engineers to learn how they are executing construction, building partner capacity, supporting base master planning, force protection, and Afghan engineer development (well drilling, bridging and construction, and facility engineer training). He also gained a better understanding of the challenges associated with Afghan infrastructure sustainment support in the transition to Resolute Support.

He attended several one-on-one meeting with senior leaders to assure them of his priority to provide necessary engineer support to meet the mission requirements. He also learned about the developing long-term strategic plan that leverages the entire engineer regiment to fill gaps in the Afghan National Security Forces development and infrastructure sustainment.

During this trip Bostick was able to see the work being accomplished and met those making it happen.

He was able to fly to Camp Ghazi, home of the Afghanistan National Engineer Brigade and meet some of the highly skilled officers assigned there. He also took an aerial tour of the Afghan Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Defense Headquarters, Kabul Military Training Center, and the Marshal Fahim National Defense University.

For Transatlantic Afghanistan District Soldiers and Civilians the highlight of Bostick's visit was his attendance at a monthly town hall meeting. Prior to his comments he presented numerous awards and coins to both Soldiers and Civilians for their support to Operation Enduring Freedom. In total 24 Soldiers and civilians received awards or coins from Bostick.

During his town hall comments Bostick stressed the importance of the mission in Afghanistan.

"The work that you are doing that's going to make it a safe and stable environment," Bostick said.

He closed the town hall with a big thank you to the Engineers.

"Thank you! Your mission is very important and continues to be important. It is a mission we have to win and we are not going to win without engineers," he said.