Afghanistan's Two Decades of Conflict Following 9/11

Why it matters locally: Many Oklahomans served in the U.S. military during the conflict in Afghanistan, and their experiences and the long-term impacts of their service are a significant part of the state's veteran community.

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After the September 11, 2001, attacks, Afghanistan became a focal point for the United States. Individuals responsible for planning these attacks found refuge within the country. This prompted a U.S. military response. The subsequent two decades saw sustained conflict in Afghanistan. Residents commonly referred to this period as "The American War." During these 20 years, hundreds of thousands of people died. A majority of these fatalities occurred among the civilian population. Special correspondent Leila Molana-Allen and videographer Eric O'Connor interviewed three men who participated in this conflict.