This prolonged intervention has changed lives, and not just for the locals. Afghanistan is not just a passing phase for soldiers, but a central, enduring part of their professional and personal existences.
I am mid-way through my third tour of Helmand
and I am not alone.There are many soldiers who now have a wide and deep perspective of how the country has been changing provided by repeated exposure to the place.
We come, we see, we act and we go. Twelve or 18 months later we return to find out what has altered since our last period of intervention. We are in a privileged position and as much as anyone it is our views from the ground that should help shape policy. After all, which other outsiders have the insight into the success – or otherwise – of the campaign that we veterans do?
The effect on the locals is easily visible. They get used to having relative peace and stability.
In the early days it was places like Kajaki, Sangin, Musa Qala and Garmsir that became synonymous with our activity in Helmand and resonated in the public consciousness."
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