First I want to thank you for your service to this country.
I remember reading somewhere, that the Peterson Army pipes were pretty stout and the stem could be removed while the pipe was still hot without causing damage. They were designed to hold up to the rough conditions that are found in the field.
As far as Meerschaums go, I know a lot of them are made in Turkey and come from that part of the world. I wonder if you would be able to find one in Afghanistan?
Here are some of the Peterson Army pipes.
http://www.cupojoes.com/cgi-bin/dept...text=army+pipe
Take care.
Ken