Atif was my Afghan interpreter during Operation Enduring a Freedom in Afghanistan 2004 - 2005. I was an embedded tactical trainer (combat advisor) embedded as a U.S. soldier an an Afghan National Army Infantry Company. Atif was my right hand man who I spoke through while leading missions on the Afghan and Pakistan border. Whether we were on foot patrols, aerial insertions by helicopter, or convoys in Ford Ranger pickups, Atif served as my voice. Regardless of the dangers of improvised explosive devices and the constant fear that we would drive over another bomb, Atif continued his work dutifully. Atif’s selfless service and bravery allowed me to return home to my family. He and his family were approved for Special Visas for his service to the U.S. as an interpreter.

Atif came to New Haven one year ago. He wanted to get a job and be ready to receive his family. This August he flew back to Afghanistan to walk his family through their required physicals and vaccinations to prepare for them to fly to the U.S. However, while he was in Kabul, the Afghan government collapsed and Atif and his family were stranded. Through the help of many people to include the U.S. military, Atif and his family made it to the Kabul airport and were evacuated on a U.S. military cargo plane to Qatar. After days of processing, Atif and his family are now safe at Fort Lee, Virginia.

Atif has a wife and 5 children. His daughters are 12 and 7 years old. His sons are 11, 9, and 2 years old.

The money donated will be used to help obtain the needed housing, furniture, bedding, transportation along with all the various miscellaneous items they will need to start a new life in the United States.

Thank you!