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Video by Sgt. Tanangachi Mfuni

The Buddhas of Bamiyan

7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

April 11, 2012 | 2:16

Alabama National Guard Soldiers recently explored one of Afghanistan’s most cultural sites the Buddhas of Bamiyan. Although the Taliban destroyed the giant statues carved into the Bamiyan cliffs in the 6th centaury AD, visitors can still tour the archeological ruins. This spring, three Alabama Soldiers got a rare opportunity to tour the ancient wonder. They climbed into the cliffs, venturing through the winding maze of stairs and tunnels that connect dozens of caves and rooms. The ancient spaces, which have ornate ceilings and festive murals were once used by monks for worship and habitation. Includes sound bites from 2nd Lt. Michael Skinner, Co. A, 115th Expeditionary Signal Battalion (ESB), Jacksonville, Ala., Spc. Roxanne Jenkins, Co. A, 115th Expeditionary Signal Battalion (ESB), Florence, Ala., and Spc. Ieisha Johnson, Co. A, 115th Expeditionary Signal Battalion (ESB), Eufaula, Ala.