The recent collapse of the Afghan military precipitated one of the largest airlifts in history — and involved people from the Kansas City area. Many of the 120,000 airlifted Afghani refugees and Americans faced monumental challenges getting out, and terrible consequences if they failed.

KCUR’s Frank Morris reports the harrowing journeys out of Afghanistan have forever shaped these refugees, as well as the people who helped them to safety.

A warning: This story contains graphic descriptions of sexual assault and may not be suitable for young listeners.

Contact the show at [email protected]. Follow KCUR on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news.

Kansas City Today is hosted by Nomin Ujiyediin. It is produced by Byron Love and edited by Gabe Rosenberg & Lisa Rodriguez.

You can support Kansas City Today by becoming a KCUR member: kcur.org/donate