NOTE from the EDITOR: Scott is in a forward position where the only communication is by satellite telephone. This report was dictated by Scott from his forward position.

I am here in SE Afghanistan in a forward operating base (FOB) with a group of American Army National Guard Imbedded Training Teams (ETT.)

This is the heart of Taliban country. We are in a very primitive forward operating base. There is no electricity and no running water.

The role of the ETT is to train and mentor the Afghan national army. Essentially, they function as military advisors.

However, they serve an important function, allowing the ETT and the Afghan national army to make connections with the local villagers and dispel many of the myths that are circulated by the Taliban.

Furthermore, their presence here allows for a quick response to any Taliban attacks on the FOB or the villages.

The Taliban are active in this region, using techniques of extortion and threats to sway the villagers to their side, leaving the villagers with little choices but to submit to their ways.

The attempt of the Afghan national army is to allow the villagers to work under the new Afghan national government and under the guidance of the Army National Guard imbedded training teams.

The Afghan national army is developing their ability as a military and in their ability to connect with the civilian populace.

I will continue these updates from our forward position as the days go on, but because I am beyond range for internet access, reports will be brief until we return from the front lines.

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