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U.S. Troops Get Last Minute Etiquette Lesson on Afghanistan
(7:57 AM ET)
Friday, January 18, 2002
By Kimberly Hefling
The Associated Press

Despite his family's apprehension, Spc. Kevin Brown, 24, of St. Louis, a military police officer, said he is excited about the deployment. "I'm getting the chance to do my job," Brown said. "This is what I'm supposed to do."

FORT CAMPBELL, KY -- Source
Avoid wild dogs. Stay away from churches and mosques. Keep pictures of wives or girlfriends hidden. And absolutely no pornography.

If the 101st Airborne Division soldiers headed for Afghanistan Friday didn't have enough to worry about, they were bombarded with last-minute instructions on how to behave once they're there.

"We want to respect the sensitivities of our host nation," said Maj. Paul Fitzpatrick. "It's important that we have an understanding of their ways of life. It makes for a better relationship with our friends and allies."

That means respecting the cultural tradition of keeping women covered by not displaying their photographs, though women soldiers will wear the same uniforms as men.

"Be students of people," Chaplain Denny Villareal said.

Soldiers were told to avoid mosques or churches unless ordered to go inside.

"Activities surrounding mosques and churches would not be in keeping with the basic mission of the 101st," said George Heath, public affairs officer. "Additionally, these facilities, in all probability, carry a notable degree of danger."
(More: The Nando Times News Source)
2002 © The Associated Press.

Dan