Marines bring medical care to Kunar Province

Blackanthem Military News, JALALABAD AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, April 24, 2006 3:24

Medical Marines from Task Force Lava kicked off a medical civic assistance program in Kunar Province on April 21.

Medical care was given to about 700 Afghan men on the program’s first day, with women and children receiving care beginning April 22.

The program, which is scheduled to continue through April 29, provides cost-free treatment to the province’s people. Many people in the mountainous rural northeastern province have only sporadic access to health care.

"Most of the people in remote provinces like Kunar have to travel miles and miles, sometimes across international borders, in order to receive medical treatment," said Army Maj. Eric P. Zenk, TF Spartan public affairs officer. "Many people in Kunar haven’t seen a doctor or a nurse in months or years. This is a terrific opportunity for them to receive good health care in a timely, convenient manner.

The medical program is another sign of the growing partnership between the Afghan people and Coalition troops, Zenk said.

"This area was once known as a terrorist haven," he said. "The progress is very heartening."

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael Pintagro Task Force Spartan Public Affairs

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