Donkey Man

Staff Sgt. Matthew Sheppard from the 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, patrols Lwar Kowndalan, Afghanistan by donkey. See story here.

Spc. Daniel Boyle spotted the old man as he led a team of donkeys up a hill in the distance. Boyle realized the donkeys might be the solution to A Co’s transportation problem. He beckoned the man over and began to negotiate. They reached an agreement, and soon each donkey was loaded with a bundle of supplies and was ready to move out. Staff Sgt. Matthew Sheppard mounted the lead donkey and with a gentle jab he spurred the animal forward. “On a mission like that, you never know what situation you’re going to find yourself in. That’s why we just try to stay flexible and make the most out of whatever breaks we get,” said Shaw.