CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s been two years since the United States withdrew troops from Afghanistan, marking what is known as Black Day. It was a day of anguish after the Taliban took over power, collapsing the Afghan government.

Zia Ghafoori was an interpreter for 14 years with the United States Special Forces in Afghanistan, aiding troops against Taliban power. His call to service started when he was in third grade after witnessing the dangers of what Taliban control did to his home.

What You Need To Know

  •  The U.S. withdrew troops from Afghanistan on Aug. 15, 2021, collapsing the Afghan government 

  •  The Independence Fund in Charlotte has helped over 800 allies navigate their way into the U.S.

“I said, if I grow up, I will fight against these people, so why they are beating these children and women and millions without any crime? So the decision was made since then from the third grade,” Ghafoori said.

At only 17, Ghafoori stayed true to his word, fighting for his country on the front lines of danger, serving as what he says was the tongue and eyes of the military.

“They didn’t know the language, how to communicate with the villagers or with the army, with the Afghan army or Afghan police. They were targeting our interpreters and our allies across the country every single day. But, we didn’t give up. And we kept doing our job,“ Ghafoori said.

Ghafoori’s heroism earned him recognition, receiving an unofficial Purple Heart from his team for his efforts in the battle of Shok Valley. But Ghafoori’s fight did not end there. After immigrating to the United States in 2015, he has helped over 800 allies navigate their way into the United States.

“We are helping them to find them housing and applying for them for the benefits that they are receiving from DSS, from social services because they are new here until they get the job and stand up on their own feet,” Ghafoori said.

Ghafoori has also founded the Interpreting Freedom Foundation, helping families along with the Independence Fund to gain resources critical to starting anew.

In the past month, both organizations have assisted 10 new families and at least 44 people.

“They came over here and they support us. They took a bullet for this country. They took a bullet for both nations and today we leave them here and that’s not fair. So we have to support each other and build a better community around the nation,” Ghafoori said.

Ghafoori hopes people can use Black Day as a reminder of those still fighting for freedom.

“My hope for these families who are coming here is to take advantage, get their education, and to come up with something to help and support their countries, their father and motherland,” Ghafoori said.