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PRT Paktika Changes Hands

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100317-22
Release Date: 3/17/2010 10:41:00 PM

By U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Mark Lazane, Provincial Reconstruction Team Paktika Public Affairs

PAKTIKA PROVINCE, Afghanistan (NNS) -- Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) Paktika held a change of command ceremony attended by the provincial governor, several line directors and many other influential government leaders of Paktika province March 10.

Cmdr. Brian Hoyt assumed command of the Paktika PRT team from Cmdr. Timothy Cauthen.

"This is a noble cause and it's worth fighting for," said Hoyt. "Everyone who is here today, whether American or Afghan, has made a commitment to this fight."

The mission of the PRT is to assist in the stabilization and security of Paktika province by concentrating on development, governance and agriculture initiatives.

Hoyt, a native of Phoenix, Ariz., leads a team of roughly 100 Air Force, Army and Navy service members from active duty, Reserve and National Guard units across the country. In addition, the PRT has several civilian workers from the Department of State, United States Agency for International Development, the United States Department of Agriculture and the local Afghan populace.

"Coalition forces have done outstanding jobs on security for Paktika," said Governor Abdul Qayum Katawazay guest speaker for the ceremony. "A long time ago, Paktika didn't have very good development. But now we can see development here. Paktika didn't have schools, roads or bridges. But now we can see these developments for Paktika."

"The Afghan people have a saying, 'One flower does not make spring,'" said Hoyt. "But when I look around, I see many flowers and I know that spring is coming."

Hoyt also directed some comments at the provincial governor.

"The team that stands before you represents the best America has to offer. I stand shoulder to shoulder with you. You have our full commitment that we are dedicated to defeating this insurgency. I cannot know for certain what steps we will take together, but I assure you we are ready to assist you in your job."