Bombardier Joey Tampus and Private Chris Brophy were schoolmates in Wagga but are both currently in Afghanistan on an eight-month tour, helping provide security.

Pte Brophy told The Daily Advertiser the pair had rediscovered their Wagga connections while working on various missions.

He said having a familiar face around had made it easier being so far from home.

"When I get back to Australia I plan on going to see my family and friends back in Wagga," Pte Brophy said.

"Joey's still got his girlfriend back in Wagga and can't wait to see her again."

The pair are offering valuable services to the people of Afghanistan.

"In general we're just providing security and reconstructing - that involves security for engineers rebuilding bridges and hospitals," he said.

"We're also mentoring Afghan soldiers, and they're great to work with."

Pte Brophy said the ultimate goal of their mentor work was to enable the Afghanis to provide their own security.

He said it had been an exciting experience being sent to Afghanistan.

"This is my first time over here," he said.

"I was quite happy. As an infantry soldier, Afhanistan is a highlight of my career."

Pte Brophy said it was rewarding to be able to share the skills he had learned during his training with people in Afghanistan and put his knowledge to good use.