Paktika PRT changes hands

PAKTIKA PROVINCE, Afghanistan – In a morning ceremony attended by the provincial governor, several line directors and other government leaders from Paktika province, U.S. Navy Cmdr. Brian Hoyt assumed command of Paktika Provincial Reconstruction Team at Forward Operating Base Sherana, March 10.

“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, said Hoyt.

Hoyt, a native of Phoenix, leads a team of about 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 community.

“Coalition forces have done outstanding jobs on security for Paktika,” said event guest speaker Paktika Governor Abdul Qayum Katawazay. “A long time ago, Paktika didn’t have very good development. But now we can see development here. Paktika didn’t have schools, roads and bridges. But now we can see these developments for Paktika.”

Hoyt took command of the Paktika PRT team from U.S. Navy Cmdr. Timothy Cauthen.

“The Afghan people have a saying, ‘One flower does not spring make,’” 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 represent 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.”