Afghan security forces are valued by foreign forces for their local knowledge, but there is also widespread evidence of drug use, corruption and desertion among their ranks.
Despite a $27bn international investment programme, in many cases, the Afghan National Police remain unfit for duty.
Clayton Swisher is embedded with US soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division, which is patrolling with members of the local police force. He sent this report from the Arghandab River Valley.
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