We recently heard from a community member about an initiative to support American Rescue Crew, and in particular, an effort being driven by Ret. Lt. Col. Harding, Congressman Richard Neal, and other retired U.S. government officials to help one family left behind. OS AI recently spoke with Lt. Col John Harding to find out more.
The Mission
Ret. Lt. Col. John Harding. has made it his mission to rescue Mr. Ghulam Gran, a dedicated individual who served alongside the U.S. and NATO throughout their mission in Afghanistan. His bravery, courage, and commitment to both the mission and the belief that all humans are entitled to unalienable rights of life, liberty and freedom were unwavering, even as he faced extreme dangers, and at times torture, at the hands of the Taliban. Unfortunately, Mr. Gran, his family, and others like them were left behind during the withdrawal.
While Mr. Gran and his family have been temporarily moved to safety several times, the journey to get them to a place of permanent safety is still ongoing.
Ret. Lt. Col. Harding shares that he “was honored to work alongside Mr. Gran and witnessed his sincere courage and dedication to our mission. Many U.S. political officials, policy makers, international leaders and Veterans served and worked personally with Mr. Gran. He stood by us and supported all of our endeavors and now it is time to support him to find freedom and resettlement in a safe country. He and those like him deserve our help.”
Glenn Schmick (Former Deputy Minister of Interior Advisor) added: “During my time in Afghanistan, I met no man of greater honor or commitment to human rights and the ideals of democracy then Mr. Gran. He risked everything he held dear, to champion freedom and equality for all.”
Two Asks
A Go-Fund-Me page has been established to raise the needed funds to support Mr. Gran and his family as they wait for permanent relocation, and to help them get established once they do.
Anyone who is able to help with relocation efforts, to help raise awareness, or who has connections that may be able to help is asked to connect with Ret Col. Harding via LinkedIn or via john@johnjhardinglaw.com.
Background
American Rescue Crew is an organization that has already helped over 800 Afghans and their families find safety. Many of these dedicated individuals, who served alongside the U.S. and NATO throughout their mission in Afghanistan, demonstrated bravery, courage, and commitment which was unwavering, even in the face of extreme dangers. Many of those left behind still face extreme danger and are in need of support.
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