Afghan refugees start to arrive at Fort Bliss. The first of many Afghans expected to reach the Borderland are part of Operation Allies Refuge. Afghans began arriving at the base on Saturday. A base statement yesterday says preparations are being made at the Doña Ana Range to house these and more refugees. KDBC reports that Doña Ana County Commissioner Manuel Sanchez says the Afghans are being "welcomed with open arms." The Afghans are special immigrant visa applicants with their families and others who are considered at risk from the Taliban.