HISTORY OF GAFST
The GAF Supply and Transport Unit evolved from a detachment of the former Field Force of the Gambia Police Force. It was located in Fajara to provide service support to the Gambia Field Force. Its responsibilities then included; supplies of petroleum products, maintenance, fire service and clerical services. It was also responsible for transporting ammunition and materials to sub-units around the country. These responsibilities are the duties of the present day GAFST and GAF Workshop.
The Gambia Field Force later metamorphosed into the Gambia National Army which was located in Yundum in aftermath of 1981 abortive coup. Later 2 Infantry Battalion was established in Farafenni and a light aid detachment of the unit was attached to the Battalion. However, the Headquarters GAFST was located in Yundum Barracks in 1984.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF GAFST
The main responsibilities of the GAFST are:
Transport support for all arms and services including:
The organization and operation of road (other than first line transport) in a theatre of operation.
The supply of Petroleum Oil and Lubricant (POL).
The distribution of combat Support (C Sup) through Bn HQ or in some circumstances direct to sub-unit.
The movement of material and personnel throughout the lines of communication as directed by the HQ.
The evacuation of casualties in conjunction with GAF Medics.
The training of ST officers and soldiers and other GAF personnel in ST trades.
ROLES OF GAFST IN MODERN DAY WARFARE
The GAFST has peace time roles that are usually modified to suit GAF operational commitments. The peace time roles of GAFST and its roles under different operational environment are examined in detail in subsequent paragraphs.
PEACE TIME ROLES
GAFST performs the following role in peacetime: Provision of transport support, carryout administrative movement, liaison with civil transport companies for training, supply of POL and Aid to Civil Authority.
Transport. One of the major responsibilities of the GAFST is the transportation and movement of troops using road transport modes.
Administrative Movement. _ In peace time, the unit is responsible for the movement of troops and equipment from one location to another. This task is more manifest during unit rotation for operations, relocation and reorganization exercise etc.
Liaison with Civil Transport Authority. The GAFST liaises with civil transport companies for vehicles where the GAF has difficulties to meet administrative movement and duties timely.
Supply of POL. GAFST is responsible for the procurement of fuel to units in liaison with fuel stations in the country such as Petrogas a role which is very important in the event of scarcity.
Aid to Civil Authority. In periods of deserts and emergencies, GAFST provides her services in aid of civil authority on humanitarian ground. This is done in the form of transportation of displaced persons, movement of displaced persons, casualty evacuation. Example is aftermath of the political impasse GAFST transported both refugee and internally displace person to their homes.
