by Rocheford T. Gardiner
HARPER, MARYLAND COUNTY – In a powerful display of civil-military cooperation, the Coast Guard Division of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has extended its intensive mass cleanup campaign into its second day, revitalizing the streets of Harper following a successful launch in the commercial hub of Pleebo.
The initiative, which began on Friday, February 6, saw the military personnel successfully clear the regional commercial center of Pleebo before shifting their focus to the provincial capital. The cleanup is part of a strategic effort to foster stronger ties between the military and the civilian population as the nation prepares for the official Armed Forces Day celebrations on February 11.
A Vision for a Safer, Cleaner County
PO1 Aloysius Bondo, the Navy Commander stationed in Maryland County, emphasized that the exercise is about more than just clearing debris. According to Bondo, the campaign is rooted in a desire for greater community engagement and the promotion of a safer, healthier environment for all residents.
“Our intent is to have a safer environment and a cleaner county,” Bondo told reporters. “This campaign allows us to engage directly with the community we serve, especially as we gear up for our official Armed Forces Day.”
Growing Momentum and Collaboration
While the first day in Pleebo set the foundation, Day 2 in Harper proved to be even more inclusive. What began as a military-led effort has blossomed into a full-scale community event. The exercise saw active participation from:
- Harper City Corporation Police and municipal inspectors.
- The Community Watch Forum.
- Local roadside business and shop owners, who paused their daily trade to join the efforts.
The atmosphere in Harper was described as electric. As the Coast Guard personnel worked, they chanted rhythmic “military boot camp” styled songs—a tradition that quickly caught on with the locals. Civilians were seen happily joining in with the choruses, bridging the gap between the uniformed services and the public through song and shared labor.
A Historic Return
This initiative carries significant weight for the region. It has been just over a year since the Coast Guard was officially redeployed to Maryland County—the first time since the onset of the Liberian Civil War. This cleanup campaign serves as a visible reminder of the AFL’s transition into a “Force for Good,” dedicated to national development and community service.
The joint operation continues to receive praise from municipal authorities in both Harper and Pleebo, who have worked alongside the Liberia Joint Security Service to ensure the campaign’s success.