Hello and welcome to Stories from the 28th Division Archives. I am Dr. Walter Zapotoczny. While working as the 28th Division Command Historian, I discovered stories in the archives that were not in the history books. In this episode, we are going to look at 28th Division involvement with embedded training teams in Afghanistan.

As part of Embedded Training Team 1st Brigade, 201st Afghan National Army Corps, Regional Security Assistance Command-Central, the team, led by Lieutenant Colonel George M. Schwartz, comprised volunteers primarily from the 28th Infantry Division Pennsylvania Army National Guard. Mobilizing from Scranton's Wat-reese Armory on October 24, 2006, the team underwent post-mobilization training at Fort Riley, Kansas, before deploying to Afghanistan in January 2007.

The team seamlessly assumed its mentoring duties, engaging in a range of operations including Quick Reaction Force missions, security missions, and counter-insurgency operations. Notably, they supported the Afghan National Army in developing leadership seminars, initiating sports activities, and establishing a Morale Welfare Recreation committee. A significant milestone was the integration of the first French Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team into the Afghan National Army, enhancing the coalition's effectiveness in combat missions. Concurrently, as the focus shifted to the Afghan National Police, the brigade detached numerous Embedded Training Teams to support police elements in the Central Region.

Preparations for deployment to the Eastern Zone Area of Operations coincided with training distractions, notably the annual Victory of the Islamic Nation Parade, impacting combat readiness. Nonetheless, the brigade successfully conducted a transfer of authority with the 3rd Brigade on May 20, 2007, expanding operations into additional provinces while continuing efforts in others.

From June 30, 2007, to December 30, 2007, Lieutenant Colonel Schwartz's Advisory Team continued its service in the Eastern Zone Area of Operations while maintaining operations in the Central Zone. They facilitated numerous Counter-Insurgency Operations across provinces, mentoring Afghan forces and partnering with Coalition Forces to bolster effectiveness. The brigade's exemplary service came with sacrifices, including the loss of five advisors and numerous Afghan National Army soldiers. Despite challenges, the brigade's commitment to its mission remained unwavering, leaving a profound impact on Afghan security efforts.

This remarkable dedication exemplifies the Pennsylvania National Guard's enduring commitment to global security and partnership-building efforts.

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Until next time, Roll On.