12/06/2025
In light of recent events, I felt compelled to clarify our situation and the differences between the Washington DC Afghan shooter and our eight families we, Supporting Afghan Families Inc. (SAFI) support and continue work to rescue. As recent as this morning, I received immigration case updates from Congressional Representatives, for our families, still in Afghanistan.
First, we pray for the family of Sarah Beckstrom, for their loss and for Andrew Wolf’s complete and speedy recovery…
As Americans, we do not punish all, for the crimes of one… The shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was brought out of Afghanistan during the 2021 mass exodus of Kabul. Our families were among those left behind... He hadn’t and didn’t go through the extensive vetting process our Special Immigration VISA (SIV) families are and went through… Rahmanullah, a CIA operative, spoke little English and wasn’t followed up with, after arriving here in America. Which is completely opposite of our SIV families. Our Afghan families speak and write fluently, in multiple languages and why they were so valued in our employ. These unique talents make it far easier for them to integrate into our American society. I and our other Veteran SAFI members personally know our families and still communicate with many of our now rescued families.
The Operation Welcome Allies Program was an abomination by our prior administration. There were tens of thousands brought to America that were never vetted, with any certainty. We know all of our Afghan families and our Brothers in Arms were… Our Afghan interpreter/translators were made a promise and the lives of them and their families are now at risk, for believing in the American dream. Please don’t abandon these families during our difficult times.
Please do not abandon our just cause. At present, we can only sustain these eight Afghan families through the March/April 2026 timeframe. I would like to end with a statement from one of our supported family members. I personally know this individual and worked with him during my time in Afghanistan.
“Thank you very much Sir, your support strengthens our resolve in these critical times.
I received the transfer fund email tonight. Once again, I am deeply grateful for your support.
I strongly condemn terrorism, the enemies of humanity, and all those who threaten peace and security, including those who oppose the United States and its values.”
Respectfully,
Mark Lisle Rathburn
SAFI Board President
COL (Ret) US Army
