GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province – The expression "goat rope" usually refers to something unorganized, but service members here helped local farmers with their roped goats, sheep and cows with free medical treatment. "It's not just something nice to have," said Capt. Micah Caskey IV, civil affairs officer. "This is the people's livelihood."
More than 60 farmers, and a local veterinarian, brought 717 animals – sheep, goats and cows – to the market to get complimentary veterinary treatment to treat and prevent worms and illnesses. Two military animal doctors from the U.S. Army and British Royal Army provided their assistance for the civil action project.
Capt. John Winston III, 28, one of the 2 veterinarians, thought the clinic "was fantastic. We directly engaged with and helped the Afghan people," he said. The plans for the project began in July. Part of the coordination was a meeting between Caskey, local elders and other community members to ensure it didn't impinge on the local veterinary supply store or veterinarians. "The last thing we want to do is adversely affect the local economy," said Caskey. "We bought medicine from the store and gave it out."
When the Marines arrived at the front of the market to set up the animal pens, some locals didn't know what was happening, but as animals began lining up for treatment, they got the idea and helped spread the word. "The people are feeling happy," said local fabric dealer Sheer Mohammad through an interpreter. Mohammad spread news of the 1-day clinic to some of his friends who, in turn, brought their animals for treatment. "It's a good thing you're doing this." Mohammad added he was surprised to see a foreign military giving free medicine for livestock. He couldn't recall any previous foreigners providing this type of service for the community.
"The volume of animals in such a short time was a bit of pressure," said British Royal army Capt. Miles Malone, veterinarian. "Having another vet there was key to its success."
