Indiana National Guard Prepares for Afghanistan Deployment with Non-Traditional Training Methods

Strategic Insights -

Soldiers and Airmen from the Indiana National Guard, who will deploy to Afghanistan this fall as part of the Indiana Agribusiness Development Team, are using innovative training methods to prepare for their mission. With a focus on agriculture and community development, the team is leveraging the expertise of local farmers and educators to learn about crop cultivation, livestock management, and irrigation techniques. This non-traditional approach to military training aims to equip the team with the skills needed to help Afghan farmers improve their yields and livelihoods.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Indiana Agribusiness Development Team consists of approximately 70 Indiana Guardsmen with diverse backgrounds, including farming, veterinary medicine, and agriculture expertise.
  • The team has been interacting with local farmers in Indiana to learn about best practices in agriculture, irrigation, and livestock management.
  • The training methods used by the team include on-farm training, classroom instruction, and hands-on experience with farming equipment.
  • The team has also been engaging with local educators, including a visit to Franklin Community High School, to learn about effective teaching methods and observe different learning styles.
  • Farmers, including Jim Moseley, the former deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, are playing a crucial role in sharing their expertise and cultural knowledge with the team.
  • The training process is focused on building relationships and trust with Afghan farmers, with the goal of improving crop yields, increasing livelihood opportunities, and contributing to peacebuilding efforts.

Statistics:

  • 70 Indiana Guardsmen comprise the Indiana Agribusiness Development Team.
  • The team includes a diverse range of expertise, including farming, veterinary medicine, and agriculture.
  • The team has been working with local farmers to learn about agriculture, irrigation, and livestock management.
  • 100% of team members have been engaged in on-farm training, classroom instruction, and hands-on experience.

Sources:

  • Sgt. Will Hill (Camp Atterbury Public Affairs)
  • Lt. Col. Robert Millsaps (officer in charge of the Indiana National Guard's agribusiness development team)
  • Jim Moseley (former deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture)
  • Craig McCaffrey (principal at Franklin Community High School)