Teaching in Afghanistan

My initial post mentioned that I will be teaching while in Afghanistan, but I neglected to say what subject. At the request of the Afghan government, the U.S. State Department hires third-party civilian contractors (all civilian police officers) to provide instruction and mentoring at the national law enforcement academy. The Afghan national police force provides what most of us identify as "regular" police work along with highway patrol and border security duties. The subject matters included in the instruction vary from investigative and patrol techniques to human rights.

The main training facility is located near Kabul and is augmented by seven satellite centers located throughout the remainder of the country. These training centers are manned by approximately 350 U.S. civilian international police officers, along with a number of officers from several other Western countries.

Departure date

Earlier this week, I received notification that the departure date for my upcoming trip has been changed to January 6. I will spend approximately two weeks in Virginia completing some final U.S.-based training before departing for Asia.

You're going where?

The upcoming new year will bring changes to my family once again. I have agreed to a one-year third party State Department contract to teach in Afghanistan beginning in January 2007. Many of the details are still being worked out and I will disclose some of the public items as they become solidified.

Being away from the dear people that I love so much will certainly be the most difficult part of the mission. I feel strongly and believe in what I am about to undertake and thank you all in advance for the support that will be needed for all that remain home while I am away.