The Three Swords, 1 July 2008

Home , Egon Ramms

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 1 JWC Public Affairs Ofﬁce Cover Story_ Both strategic commanders, PO Box 8080, Eikesetveien SACEUR and SACT, declared 2008 “Year 4068 Stavanger, Norway of NCO” in NATO. Picture collage by Sgt. Tel: +47 51 34 2141/2142/2143 Chhoeun, USA A, JED, JWC. Fax:+47 51 34 2149 Internet: www.jwc.nato.int

Editorial Welcome to our summer edition of The Three Swords magazine. has always been a great pleasure for me to be allowed to present It has truly been a busy spring and this issue is somehow reflect- this high quality products to our readers. I would also like to take ing that; both in the content of the magazine with reports from our this opportunity to thank all of my current and former colleagues exercises and other events, and by the fact that we again had to and friends at JWC for three fun, challenging and memorable increase the number of our pages to a record number of 48! Still, years. I have learned a lot, met many great interesting people and we did not have room for all of the articles from our spring activity, will take with me a lot of good memories and friendship to my new so some will be reflected in the Fall issue. life in Brussels. I wish you all a wonderful summer and I wish JWC NATO has dedicated this year as “The Year of the NCO”, and all good luck in successfully accomplishing its missions. Remember in recognition of that our Cover Story is a tribute to the work of to take good care of the newcomers and create a positive helpful our NCOs and the important and valuable contribution they add to team spirit among you. achieving the JWC and NATO tasks and mission. We hope by these articles that we can increase our readers’ knowledge and respect for the important role and function of NCOs in NATO. In addition, CDR (Sg) Helene W. Langeland, NOR Navy we focus on how the Joint Warfare Centre goes about supporting Chief, Public Affairs Office the certification of the NRF/CJTF, including a short presentation Joint Warfare Centre of the many functions and people that are brought in to providing these exercises. As always you will also find a variety of minor articles and pictures covering local events at JWC and some special topics to broaden your knowledge and hopefully delivering some engaging reading. This will be my last editorial after three years of service as the Chief of the Public Affairs Office at JWC and thereby the Editor of The Three Swords magazine. I have seen the magazine developing from a small 8-page newsletter in some hundred copies, into a professional maga- PUBLISH AN ARTICLE IN THE THREE SWORDS! zine with a circulation of 2,000 We are always looking for good articles written copies, which is also published on by our readers. If you have got something to JWC web-page. I would like to ex- say, send it to us. We will be happy to consider press a special thank you to Ms. Inci it for publication. Email your articles, as well as Kucu kaksoy for her outstanding your comments and feedback to work in producing this magazine. It JWC CG PAO Common (CRONOS) or [email protected].

The Three Swords

JWC PAO: The Three Swords is the authorized unofficial Front Cover by: Cdr (SG) H. Langeland, NOR N publication produced by the JWC Public Affairs Sgt. Brandon Chhoeun, USA A, Inci Kucukaksoy, NATO Civilian Office. It represents a compilation of articles, Civil Environment Section, SMstSgt Juergen Eise, DEU F reports, news and general information related to JED, JWC Bente H. Kleven, NATO Civilian (Linguist) JWC personnel and their families. The articles and Production and Layout: opinions expressed in this publication are those of Inci Kucukaksoy the authors and do not necessarily represent the official policy of NATO. The Editor reserves the right to edit or shorten submissions.

PUBLISHED QUARTERLY

2 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 foreword

Lieutenant General Wolfgang Korte German Army Director, Joint Warfare Centre

N the last issue of The Three the training of members of the sec- Swords magazine, I promised ond rotation into ISAF XI. The Core you a very busy second quar- Staff Element is being provided by ter of the year - and I was NRDC-TU and JFC BS. In addition, 70 right.I April started off with Phase Individual Augmentees are partici- III, the execution phase of STEAD- pating. This number of participating FAST JOIST, our first three-level-ex- augmentees out of expected 150 is ercise with SHAPE, Joint Force Com- as disappointing as the participa- mand Brunssum and its Component tion of only 107 CSE members out of Commands as Training Audience. about 170. All have been invited, but The involvement of SHAPE as a main we can only train who shows up. player caused intensive interaction With Phase II, the planning Phase between the operational and the for STEADFAST JOINER AND JOIST strategic level, significantly increas- ahead of us in June, and Allied ing and supporting comprehensive Reach in July, we really can call it a thinking. All agreed that SHAPE busy quarter. should take its role in this kind of I really appreciate how all of you exercises as often as possible. managed to meet all requirements, Back to back followed our eighth working long and additional hours course for Iraqi Key Leaders as our without complaining and once again contribution to the NATO Training Mission in Iraq. Again, we delivering first-class training as our contribution to ACT serv- were able to provide an educating training event with inter- ice to NATO. Now, we are all looking forward to the Summer esting and challenging discussions. Holidays, and with an also very busy second half of the year Only two weeks later, Phase III of STEADFAST JUNCTURE, coming, we will take as much time as possible to spend time an NRF certification exercise for Joint Command Lisbon and with our families, enjoy ourselves and regain power for the its Components of NRF 11, followed. We saw a complete dif- challenges to come. When we come back, we will see many ferent and actually “transformational” exercise, because the new faces around, which also means that we will miss some Commander JCL had decided to structure his staff in accord- others. ance with the EBAO Concept, and also use respective proce- After two years of dedicated service to the JWC, our Chief dures and processes. This was especially interesting for JWC, of Staff, Brigadier General Philip “Phil” Ruhlman will be leav- because JCL had provided the experimentation body for the ing us very soon to head for his next assignment. He will take Stand Alone Exercise on EBAO in February. The challenge was command of 36 Wing at Anderson Air Force Base in Guam. To to make an EBAO organized headquarters working with tradi- take Command of a unit of what level ever is always something tional structured Component Command headquarters. very special. To command is what being an officer is all about. From 9 to 13 June, we provided the Phase 1B Academics to It provides high responsibility combined with the opportunity Joint Force Command Naples and its Components in prepara- to act, to shape, to bring things forward, to care for soldiers tion of STEADFAST JOINER 08, the certification for NRF 12. and their families, to train, to exercise all the satisfying as- I think, we have been able to convince all participants once pects of being a Commander. I am sure I speak on behalf of all again how important it is to have the majority of all key lead- of you when I thank our Chief, not only for his excellent work, ers participating. The Academics were not only meant to pro- but especially for the way he performed his duties. With his vide the newest developments in the areas of concepts, staff reliability, his agility, initiative, ardent activity and humor, he procedures and Best Practices, but also to facilitate team- was exactly the Chief the JWC needed, and it was a pleasure building between headquarters, which do not work together working with him. We all wish BG Ruhlman and his family all on routine business. the best for the times to come, success and satisfaction as a While I write these lines, ISAF 08/01 has just begun with Commander, and good luck and God’s blessing for the fam-

Continued at page 16 ›››

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 3 Brigadier General Philip M. Ruhlman U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff, Joint Warfare Centre

EEMS like just yesterday discussions was always professional (two years ago, really) that I and aimed at getting the answer correct was learning how to spell all for the good of all. In the end, complex over again. You know what discussions often resulted in better solu- I mean...learningS how to spell out all tions once each side finally understood those NATO acronyms we use - NRDC, the other. MBC, IAT, ARRC, ACOS, SFJE, JALLC, The Joint Warfare Centre itself is a CC, SCPI, JCL, NCSA, PXD, FER, ERT, phenomenal organization, with out- CMB, TS-SOSB, etc., etc., etc. You should standing leadership, the highest of have seen how happy my front office credibility across NATO, and I think an staff was when I finally learned that organization with the most professional in NATO, AAR meant “After Action Re- officers, most outstanding NCOs and view” instead of “Air-to-Air Refueling”. most exceptional civilians of any single Clearly, they were very much relieved military unit I have ever seen. What is when I stopped asking when the jet really commendable about the JWC is tanker aircraft were going to show up that it never “rests on its laurels”. In- at Ulsnes! stead, it is constantly self-demanding The last two years went by real fast, internal improvement, higher efficien- and as the Chief of Staff of the Joint Warfare Centre, it was one cy, and increased effectiveness so as to provide NATO the very of the most rewarding experiences of my military career. The best transformational concepts linked with exercise training. reason why is quite simple: working for NATO has taught me When it comes to AARs ... those are extremely important to us. how the strength of 26 Nations and Partners - when teamed We listen intently on what lessons are identified, what needs to together - works and succeeds towards a common goal with be fixed ... and then we fix them! tremendous results. I clearly saw that the diversity of many As I leave, I leave with fond memories and a strong satis- nations working together provided a better answer, a more faction of having helped, in at least a small way, our NATO clear solution, and a much stronger and unified perspective by team forge new frontiers in this unpredictable and ever-chal- which to solve the most difficult problems. It became clear to lenging world environment. NATO clearly has proven itself as me that in our world today, no nation can succeed alone with- the world’s most powerful and effective multi-national Alliance out cooperation and partnership of other fellow nations. - an Alliance that won the Cold War and now has significantly The problems all of us worked together were not easy. In transformed itself to deter and defend against new challenges fact, many were extremely challenging. Add to that, our natu- that threaten its peace and freedom. ral, cultural differences meant we had to make the effort to I am humbly honored to have served NATO on behalf of the understand each other’s personal perspective and each other’s United States and the United States Air Force. I salute each and unique experiences in order to see the whole picture. Some- every one of you and wish you all the very best of success and times, we all did not agree. Yet the passion felt during those prosperity in all your future endeavors.

The last two years went by real fast, and as the Chief of Staff of the Joint Warfare Centre, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my military career...

4 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 NATO Year of the NCO The Backbone:

A Tribute to the Important Role of NCOs Throughout the JWC and NATO

By MSG Hashim Woodard, USA A, Chief, JWC Central Registry

S a Senior Non-Commis- year for the Alliance. Befitting this his- NATO. In doing so, the Senior Enlisted sioned Officer represent- torical declaration, this edition of the leadership within NATO will also con- ing the US Army here at JWC Three Swords Magazine is dedi- tinue their efforts to address challenges the Joint Warfare Centre cated to the significant and lasting con- surrounding the realization of a common (JWC),A I am honored to have been given tributions of NCOs assigned throughout “NATO NCO Development” program. the opportunity to expound on a major the organization. What an exciting time Despite the significant challenges, this transformation initiative; the develop- to be an NCO assigned to NATO and em- collaborative effort is a central focus of ment of a professional NCO Corps within powered to demonstrate the leadership, the 2008 declaration. The high military NATO. NATO’s two principle component professionalism, strength, dedication, turnover rate within NATO organiza- commands, Allied Command Operations and commitment to the core values of tions is particularly challenging, with (ACO) and Allied Command Transforma- an NCO Corps! personnel serving on average between tion (ACT), have both declared 2008 as Throughout the remainder of the year, two-to-four years before returning to the “Year of the Non-Commissioned ACO, ACT, and subordinate commands their respective nations. Officer”. By the time this magazine edi- will continue to highlight past, present, Before I showcase recent accomplish- tion is distributed, we will be half-way and future contributions of NCOs, whose ments of my fellow JWC NCOs, let me through what I hope will be a historic vital roles comprise the “backbone” of first provide a few historical facts sur- ►►►

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 5 NATO Year of the NCO

rounding the term “NATO NCO Develop- Advisor (SEA) to the Supreme Allied age everyone to visit the NATO website ment.” To paraphrase a well-used quote Commander Operations, US Marine Ser- throughout the remainder of the year, that has stood the test of time, “in order geant Major Alford L. McMichael, was www.nato.int/shape/ynco, which is to know our present and future, we must the driving force behind the initial con- dedicated to the contributions of NCOs study and acknowledge our past.” When cept of developing a common standard serving across the Alliance’s operational I conducted a little research into the his- for NCOs throughout NATO. This year’s footprint and sphere of influence. tory behind ongoing efforts to build a initiatives will bring greater visibility to During the past twelve months, the professional NCO Corps within NATO, the value and contributions of NATO JWC SEA, French Navy Warrant Officer I discovered the first-appointed Senior NCOs’ and continue to underline the 1st Class Jackie Guichard and other as- Enlisted need for a common standard. signed Senior NCOs worked together to 2008 represents an important create and gain approval for two new continuum of Sergeant Major Mc- JWC Directives. The first, JWC Direc- Michael’s earlier efforts; the torch tive 40-18, established Terms of Refer- now passed to US Army Command ence for a JWC Enlisted Advisory Board Sergeant Major Michael Bartelle, (EAB). The second, JWC Directive 40-20, the current Senior NCO for ACO; established processes for the JWC Out- and Czech Republic Army Com- standing Military Member of the Quar- mand Sergeant Major Ludek Kole- ter (MMOQ)/Military Member of the sa, Senior NCO for ACT. Year (MMOY) Program. Rest assured, these two accom- With full support and backing from plished and very capable Senior both the JWC Director and Chief of Staff, NCOs will continue this impor- credibility of the EAB and direct-access tant endeavor for the sake of all to Senior Leadership for enlisted-specific NCOs within NATO. I encour- issues was achieved. Additionally, JWC

◄ Sergeant Major Alford L. McMichael, US Marine Corps, the ﬁrst NCO in NATO’s history to represent the NATO Alliance’s entire enlisted force. Photo by UK Army Cpl. Jim Hennessey. “My priority won’t be with the nations that already have strong NCO Corps, but with the nations who want to make their enlisted force better.” Sgt. Maj. McMichael, 4 February 2004.

►►► 6 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 NATO Year of the NCO

hat an exciting time to be an NCO assigned to NATO and empowered to demonstrate the leadership, professionalism, strength, dedication, Wand commitment to the core values of an NCO Corps! Directive 40-20, established a MMOY Throughout the JWC, the many tal- open to NCOs in Oberammergau, Ger- nomination-process whereby the JWC ents and contributions of its NCO popu- many. Every NCO should have the op- nominee to ACT’s annual MMOY pro- lation can be seen and felt. From Section portunity to attend the NATO Senior gram, represented the strongest candi- Chiefs, to Graphics Technicians, to In- NCO Orientation Course prior to, or date vetted and nominated by his/her formation Managers for major exercises shortly after assuming a NATO post. enlisted peers. Implementation and such as NATO’s STEADFAST series of Fellow NCOs; recognize the immeasur- continued adherence to these impor- exercises, NCOs have and continue to able value of communicating frequently tant Directives will continue to provide showcase their teaching, mentoring, and with peers, sharing information, and platforms to recognize the hard work, adaptability skills. I extend a heart-felt highlighting the positive aspects of be- professionalism and dedication of NCOs “thank-you” for all you do! In so many ing an intricate part of a joint, multina- here at the JWC. ways, you truly are the “backbone” of tional and multicultural operating and this organization. As you training environment. read through the additional Equally important is the role each of articles and excerpts in this us has with respect to educating NATO edition, reﬂect on your indi- ofﬁcer and civilian personnel - through vidual and collective accom- our personal on-the-job example of plishments with pride. technical/tactical competence and ex- NCOs serving within NATO perience. Get involved in community ac- must actively seek training tivities and events. Continue to support and continued development ongoing NATO initiatives by educating from the many opportunities your successor and respective enlisted that currently exist through- service personnel when you return to out the Alliance and its Part- your nations. nership countries. There are As I near the end of my NATO tour, I currently forty-three NATO- am both proud and blessed to have been School courses, which are a part of a truly historic transformational period within the Alliance.  ◄ MSG Woodard, Chief, JWC Central Registry

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 7 Cover Story - NATO Year of the NCO The Year of NCO in NATO

By Warrant Ofﬁcer (WO1) Jackie Guichard, FRA N, Admin Supervisor, DOS, JWC

S the Senior Enlisted Leader the Alliance’s relevance, now and in the In order to fulfil these new missions, of JWC, I am honoured to future. This will not be achieved with- NATO needs to be able to rely on people have the opportunity to talk out a clear vision, common aim and who are comfortable working together, about NCOs within NATO in qualified personnel. deployable at short notice, flexible on ourA magazine. At the initiative of CSM NATO’s military transformation en- length of stay, etc. That is precisely (ACO) Michael Bartelle and CSM (ACT) compasses not only reorganization and where the experience of NCOs is un- Ludek Kolesa, both strategic Command- re-equipping, but also a standardization matched, for they are able to address ers, SACEUR and SACT, have agreed of its military manpower. We will have to different military cultures, capability to declare 2008 “Year of the NCO” in train and educate our people to common levels, geographic and historic perspec- NATO. We can all be proud of that deci- standards that underpin interoperability tives, as well as unique national secu- sion, for this is a way to recognize that across all areas of Alliance operations rity and domestic law issues. NCOs are an integral link in the chain and functions. In that role, NCOs can For the professional development and of command for NATO; that they con- bring their efficient and timely advice leadership of our NCOs, we have to train tribute in all areas of military activity and support that NATO Leadership needs and educate them to common standards by providing their leadership, inspira- to maintain NATO as the world’s pre-emi- that strengthen interoperability across tion, and motivation; that they have a nent Alliance for stability and security. the whole spectrum of the Alliance. key role in transforming the Alliance. In today’s world global terrorism, po- In that perspective, the Senior Enlisted tential use of weapons of mass destruc- Leaders (Command Sergeant Majors) of What is Transformation? tion, regional instability, failing states, all NATO Commands and at national lev- NATO’s military transformation ef- radical ideologies and unresolved con- els have gathered for bi-yearly symposia forts strive for improved interoperabil- flicts are the greatest threats we face. over the last three years and have drawn ity where fundamentally joint, network- NATO has to address new challenges up the basis for what should become the centric, distributed forces, capable of in roles such as conflict prevention, NATO NCO Standards. These Standards rapid decision superiority and massed crisis management, peacekeeping, dis- have yet to be approved. They need to effects across the battle space, ensure aster response and humanitarian relief. be finalized and promulgated as soon as possible to keep a chance to build a competent and effective NATO NCO Corps.

JWC: Transformation Tool The Joint Warfare Centre assists in the training and evaluation of joint military staffs within ACO for certiﬁcation by the Alliance’s military commanders, based on NATO’s operating standards and mission requirements. JWC is ACT’s agent for promoting and conducting broad operational-level joint and multinational experimentation, analysis, and doctrine development, as well as for the collective staff training of Partner Nations.

The NCOs at JWC Compared to the activities and responsibilities normally assigned to NCOs in their respective forces, the Brigadier General Ruhlman, COS JWC, presented WO1 duties of the NCOs in the JWC are pri- Guichard with a JWC plaque at the Farewell Breakfast for marily to ensure support in positions as his dedicated service and devotion to duty, 11 June 2008. ►►►

8 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 I am the Chief Graphics Production, and my Section is really international as staff comes from Norway, Poland, Turkey and Italy. We are producing all graphics designs and print- ing publications for exercises and everyday life here at JWC. Our main goal is to fulfill The Year of NCO in NATO customer expectations and deliver high quality products. The Polish Army prepares very competent and professional NCOs. Every year, some of them complete their military education abroad. So, I cannot really see any difference between Polish NCOs and those of other nations; we are all truly International Non- administrative staff and technicians/ Commissioned Officers, and we all have a true operators. We, NCOs, work behind the feeling of being integral members of the NCO- scenes to provide essential support to team, which is known as the “backbone of any JWC staff. JWC NCOs come from dif- modern military organization”. ferent horizons and cultures and had Sergeant Major Leszek A. Wojtalik, POL A, to adapt themselves to a new country, Chief, Graphics Section, JWC new mentalities and sometimes even new technologies. Nevertheless, they are men and women of today who share the I have served in JWC for three and same passion for their duties. a half years and have seen it develop from a small “wannabe” in- Their commitment and dedication must stitution in its infancy into a truly remain at a superior level, especially in world-class training centre, which these troubled times where the armed is highly respected by its training forces are much requested to serve audiences. I started out in the Joint peace. NCOs are a wealth of knowledge Training Division, at the time to be and experience that the entire organiza- found in the “Old Rig”, and then tion relies on. They also are the driving moved to the Joint Exercise Divi- force behind training, and role models sion in the “New Rig”, from where and mentors for the junior enlisted. They I can follow the construction of the new JWC Facility, which by now demonstrate, through their open mind, almost reaches its full height! An expertise and loyalty, a standard of pro- Admin NCO may not always be the fessionalism often imitated but seldom, most attractive job, but it is never a if ever, equalized. But NCOs are not only boring one. This job requires com- experts or technicians; they also are re- municating with a wide spectrum sponsible chiefs. NCOs have always been of people from the most diverse backgrounds and experiences. My fondest memory the soul of an army, the hyphen between is the conversations that I had with various people - from a Private driving me to the command and the execution. They are the airport to a three-star General telling an anecdote in the middle of the night as the ones by whom the mission either suc- we were traveling from an exercise site to a hotel in Lisbon. Experiences like Allied Action 05 in San Clemente, Spain (and some 20 other exercises and major events), ceeds or fails. It is for them to have the as well as my deployment to Kabul were extremely helpful and I feel that each day responsibility of the last order, the deci- of my assignment I have learnt something from my fellow NCOs or Officers. My sive gesture. Thanks to the fighting spirit advice to my colleagues: Speak with each other, listen to each other and learn from of the NCOs, NATO has fully entered the each other! 21st Century. They are an important part Sergeant Major Meelis Koger, EST A of the organization that will allow JWC Admin NCO, JED, JWC to fulfill its assigned missions, in order to improve NATO’s effectiveness and inter- I am an Admin NCO working in the Capa- operability. bility Development Division (CDD) of the Finally, I would like to add that I am Joint Warfare Centre. I joined the JWC staff nearing the end of my three-year post- in 2006, after spending two years as an ad- ing to JWC. It has been an honour and min apprentice with the Personnel Office a great experience to serve as the first at Camp Madla. In CDD my work involves appointed Senior Enlisted Advisor for preparing and participating in exercises, experiments and post venue work. General JWC. I am proud of my fellow NCO com- administrative duties are also part of this rades who work hard for the reliability role. The best thing about working in an and success of JWC and help hoist the international environment is the language “Three Swords” flag so high in the NATO experience and learning about the views of Transformation sky.  different cultures. I do enjoy learning from fellow staff members of various militaries and backgrounds. Have a nice NATO day! Petty Officer Linda Sletten, NOR N Admin, CDD, JWC Cover Story - NATO Year of the NCO

VIEWPOINT

Sergeant Major Ludek Kolesa, Czech Republic Army ACT Senior Enlisted Leader

Shortly after we began the New Year, both NATO Strategic Com- manders declared 2008 “the Year of the NCO in NATO.” I was on my ﬁrst visit to the JWC with my Commander, General Mat- tis, and after his tour, I was given the opportunity to address the NCOs with a brief. After which I was, and continued to be, engaged in very interesting and challenging discussions; they lasted throughout my stay. These discussions further convinced me that there are professional, qualiﬁed, enthusiastic, and motivated NCOs serving in JWC. As in any other NATO institution or Headquarters I have heard that some of you may feel unutilized and not really challenged by the job, or that you are ready to take over more responsibilities and face big- ger challenges. This approach of yours is exactly what keeps me and the other Senior Enlisted Leaders carrying on with our efforts to assist our Nations in their NCO Corps’ transformation, which would naturally mirror into the NATO structures. You continue to give us new energy to develop and promote additional NATO NCO De- velopment Programs and cooperation with NATO, PfP, and also contact countries’ NCOs. Without your support, this initiative would not continue to progress. Still, this is NATO - soon to be more than 26 Nations - and everything takes time. We have a vision, and we are working on several initiatives that are changing the history of NATO NCOs. “The Year of the NCO in NATO” is a great initiative and a tremendous asset in helping in our efforts. (Recommended Reading: Interview with Sergeant Major Kolesa in ACT’s Transformer Magazine, Spring 2008: “2008 The Year of the NCO in NATO Campaign”, p:3)

“MMOY Ceremony formally recognizes NCOs for their achievement” SSG Mark Ledesma represented the Joint Warfare Centre at the ACT Military Member of the Year Ceremony (MMOY)

As an NCO recog- NATO has no set structure to describe the roles and responsi- nized for exception- bilities of the NCO. It is a very hard task to accomplish. Each al service achieve- nation has its own structure. The views can be very different. ment, what’s your Take, for example, Norway. The NCO structure does not hold advice to NCOs as many ranks as other nations. How do you create a structure serving in NATO? without forcing another nation’s ideals on one another? My advice to NCOs Can you tell us about the 2007 ACT MMOY? serving in NATO is This year, the 2007 MMOY was held at ACT Headquarters in to continue work- Norfolk, Virginia from 25-29 February. The competition started ing beyond what is with each candidate giving an introduction about themselves normally expected to the MMOY Board Members. As the competition continued, of you. All of us bring I was required to give two presentations. The first presentation different experiences described the JWC command and responsibilities. The sec- to this organization. ond presentation involved describing the NCO structure within We have an obliga- the U.S. Army. The final part of the competition allowed each tion to show everyone member of the Board to ask two questions, each about ACT. that NCOs are fully capable of contributing to the success of This was the most difficult part because we were not aware of NATO’s mission. what questions would be asked. It was an honor to represent What makes NCOs the cornerstone of military? JWC in the competition. The U.S. Army uses the term “backbone” to describe the NCO What is the importance of MMOY Ceremony? Corps. This is a perfect description of how NCOs are the sup- The ceremony is significant in that it formally recognizes NCOs port structure in any Military. We are required to carry out or- for their achievement. It is important for leaders to identify and ders and to successfully complete the missions given to us. We reward individuals for portraying the characteristics we want are responsible for every Soldier’s welfare and professional de- to see in our organization. It shows the command cares and velopment. It is expected we will not shy away from accepting takes a personal interest in achievement. greater responsibilities. In three words, how would you describe success? Why is it difficult to describe the NCO ranks in NATO? Dedication, development and teamwork.

10 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 On the top floor of the E-Block there is the Command Group, including the Information and Knowledge Management Office, which is the office from which the JWC Webmas- ter works. SCPO Henning Kørvel (whose NATO last name is Koervel) has served with the Danish Navy since 1969, chiefly in the Faeroe Islands, - and is proud of it too! Manpower reductions in the Danish Forces, including the Island Command Faeroes, brought him back to Denmark in 2006. Shortly after, he applied for the vacant position as Webmaster at the JWC, where he arrived in July last year. So, that was my short introduction. As part of the in-processing procedure, newcomers stop by my office to submit their request for accounts on the NATO Secret and NATO Unclassified workstations. So, I am one of the few persons that get to say “hello” to almost all JWC members. My job as the JWC Webmaster also involves working on the SharePoint Server Portal and the WISE Portal, and more recently, also on the Windows SharePoint Services, which have just been implemented on the NU LAN. I have also contributed to the JWC external website (www.jwc.nato.int), ensuring that useful functionalities have been in- stalled on the server where the website is hosted. SCPO Henning Kørvel, DNK N, JWC Webmaster, IKM

Since 2005, I have been a part of the CIS/Helpdesk, where most staff are NCOs. It has been a very interesting job, which carries its own challenges, though. Our job is to solve all kinds of computer problems that staff may have, and when we ﬁx a problem, everybody is happy. That makes me happy too. That’s my reward. I am very pleased with NATO’s decision to I want to start off saying congratulations to all dedicate 2008 to NCOs. Bulgaria NCOs within the Alliance, THIS IS OUR YEAR! We set up a Professional College for should be proud of ourselves. My daily job at the NCOs in 2007, and I am glad to Joint Warfare Centre is to be an assistant on the see such developments, which are Command Group staff. I work mainly in the DOS a true recognition of our work. Ofﬁce, though I also sometimes provide assistance MST Iliyan E. Matanski, BGR A as needed to the JWC Director and Chief of Staff, Technician, JWC especially during exercises at Ulsnes. I enjoy working in a multinational environment, and I learn new things everyday about the different cultures in the JWC community. Every morning I look forward to a day at work, serving NATO. SGT Jarle Lønseth-Vidtun, NOR AF DOS, JWC

Serving as a Non-Commissioned Officer in NATO vs. National Forces: Where is the difference? Serving with NATO as a Senior NCO is one of the most challenging jobs there is. It is not the professional part that is the biggest challenge; but rather, the fact of doing business in a foreign language with colleagues of up to 26 different nations. While there is a common understanding of the role of all officer ranks, the approaches to that of the NCOs vary greatly with several different models being available within the forces of NATO’s member nations. As a consequence, NATO is working hard to achieve a common understanding and a clear definition of NCO/SNCO role inside the Organization. To serve with NATO is nevertheless an experience I see as a mandatory part of the professional and personal development of every Senior NCO in NATO. I am proud for Germany being a part of NATO and honoured that the German Armed Forces gave me the chance to serve in the NATO/JWC Team. SMstSgt Juergen Eise, DEU F, PAO, JWC first came across the Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF) concept when working in two maritime NATO commands in the middle and late 1990s. JWC’s SUPPORT ThoseI commands, largely national, have become part of the NATO Force Structure, and the CJTF concept has also evolved, or transformed, into the NATO Response Force (NRF) and Deployable Joint Staff Element TO NATO’s (DJSE) concepts. Joining JWC in August 2007, my previous appointment was as the Chief of Staff (COS) of the UK Maritime Component Command NRF/CJTF (UKMCC) in Bahrain. I also held the title of ACOS (Operations) in the Coalition Forces Maritime Component Command (CFMCC); a small coalition team co-located with the US CERTIFICATION Navy 5th Fleet in Bahrain. Two things stood out from that period in the Middle East: Firstly, that NATO’s role in the region was By Captain Stuart B. Furness, GBR N, far larger than the last time I had worked Chief, Joint Exercise Division, Joint Warfare Centre directly with the Alliance. There was obviously support to the complex ISAF mission, but there was also direct engagement with ►►►

12 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 NRF/CJTF Certiﬁcation

regional countries, such as Bahrain, as ers, assisted by the Operational Plan- ters; for STEADFAST series exercises, part of the Istanbul Cooperation Initia- ning Directorate (OPD) based in Lisbon, these are SHAPE as Officer Scheduling tive and secondly, that there was wide- do that for future NRF commands. What the Exercise (OSE), a Joint (Force) Com- spread day-to-day use of NATO proce- JWC does is to project manage the ex- mander as the Officer Conducting the dures by countries as geographically ercise process, setting up and running Exercise (OCE), and JWC as the Officer far apart as Australia and Pakistan. all elements that are ‘artificial’ in an ex- Directing the Exercise (ODE). There is a So, what would I find on joining JWC? ercise, allowing the Operational Com- considerable amount of detail to JWC’s How much of a challenge would it be to mander and his Component Command- involvement in these STEADFAST Com- co-ordinate all the various nationalities ers to concentrate on the operational mand Post/Computer Assisted Exercis- within all the various Headquarters in- aspects. JWC also has a public face that es (CPX/CAXs), primarily in the follow- volved in any NATO exercise? How re- provides Observer/Trainers (OTs) to as- ing areas in the table below. alistic would it be? Who would provide sist the staffs prepare for their periods So, to answer my own questions and the direction? on ‘standby’ for operations. firstly, how realistic is it? Going into Nine months later and in the middle of The NATO Exercise Planning Process each exercise I ask myself two main my fourth major NATO exercise, I have is outlined in Figure 1 (Page 14), drawn questions: How good is the Main Events come to understand the roles that JWC from the Bi-SC Exercise Directive 75-3, List (MEL)/Main Incident List (MIL) and holds in CJTF/NRF and future DJSE ex- which defines a four-stage NATO exer- do I have enough augmentees? Speak- ercises, which are termed ‘STEADFAST cise process. That Exercise Directive ing from my own experience the inci- Series’ exercises. Firstly, we do not cer- also defines the roles and responsibili- dents that JWC has planned to challenge tify anyone; the Joint (Force) Command- ties of the various exercise Headquar- the various operational Headquarters ►►► JWC role in NATO’s STEADFAST series exercises: Stage JWC Primary Activity Stage 1: - Advise the OSE on Exercise Design Concept and Specification - Develop detailed scenarios and documentation Note: Each new scenario takes up to two years to develop Stage 2: - Lead the Exercise Core Planning Team (CPT) Planning and Product - Lead the development of exercise documentation, e.g. Exer- Development cise Plan (EXPLAN) Stage 3: Academics (Stage 3 Phase 1) Operational Conduct - A five-day programme where JWC delivers a combination of academic briefs and syndicate discussions to the command groups and key staffs of a Joint Force Command (JFC) and its Component Command (CC) headquarters - ACT provides Senior Mentor support Crisis Response Planning (Stage 3 Phase 2) - During this two-week phase the JFC and its CC headquarters are tasked to conduct operational planning using the Guide- lines for Operational Planning (GOP) - JWC Observers and Trainers (OTs) and Scenario personnel support and assist the training audiences as they conduct their planning together with Senior Mentors Exercise Execution (Stage 3 Phase 3) - During this Phase the operational plan developed during Phase 2 is executed, in a CAX environment, over an 8-10 day period - Phase 3 usually involves about 1,500 staff in a Training Audi- ence composed of 4-10 headquarters deployed across Europe and an Exercise Control (EXCON) organisation of 300-500 staff, including an OT team of 50-85 staff After Action Review (AAR) (Stage 3 Phase 4) Immediately following Phase 3, Director JWC delivers an AAR to the Commanders and key staff of the Training Audience

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 13 NRF/CJTF Certiﬁcation

have echoed directly with the day-to- ments that call for their suppression or day events I experienced over the last repression. I attribute the ever increas- How much of a few years in the Middle East: the higher ing realism of the MEL/MIL to the di- challenge would it be level tasks of protecting the economic rect engagement of the training staffs lifelines of a country in order to set the of the Headquarters about to be certi- to co-ordinate all the conditions for the success of an emerg- fied in the development of the MEL/ various nationalities ing state or striking the balance be- MIL (they understand their operational tween pursuing intelligence leads and plans and exercise training objectives) within all the various working with regional nations to the together with the experience gained Headquarters involved specific problems of piracy, maritime by JWC over five exercises each year crime, human trafficking, narcotics and the very welcome involvement of in any NATO exercise? smuggling and arms smuggling, which a growing number of International and How realistic would may be the enabling networks for ter- Non-Governmental Organisations (IO/ rorist movement of goods or people, or NGOs). The last CJTF exercise also had it be? Who would may be adapted to the purpose of some extensive SHAPE involvement, which provide the direction? violent extremist group. All of these il- provided a very realistic environment legal activities are subject to various in- for the Operational Commander. ternational protocols, treaties or agree- There are, of course, challenges con-

NATO EXERCISE PLANNING PROCESS

Bi-SC Exercise Directive 75-3 deﬁnes a four-stage NATO exercise process. ►►►

14 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 NRF/CJTF Certiﬁcation

cerning the ‘artiﬁcialities’ and the avail- EXCON structure for STEADFAST JUNCTURE 08 ability of augmentees for EXCON has had the most obvious effect on our exercises. Figure 2 (right) shows the extent of what EXCON needed to provide for the current exercise STEADFAST JUNC- TURE 08, and in the last three exercises the lack of augmentees has led to ‘Ex- tended Day’ exercises rather than 24/7, and a lack of OT Subject Matter Experts in a number of areas (e.g. Targeting and Information Operations). Finally, I return to my original ques- tion: how much of a challenge would it be to co-ordinate all the various nationalities within all the various Headquar- ters involved in any NATO exercise? After nine months, including 1 x ISAF, 1 x CJTF and 2 x NRF exercises, I would say that day-to-day this is not a hard task, but it does require an investment in time, patience, understanding and above all an ability to ﬁnd a way to ac- commodate each Headquarters’ needs. The Exercise Core Planning Team (CPT), led by my Division does much of the day-to-day work that is needed to keep us pointing in the right direction, but it is my Director, in a recently expanded ODE role, in close discussion with the Operational Commander as OCE, who gives that direction. 

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 15 Foreword continued

Foreword Lieutenant General Paul Morillon. He became the synonym in NATO, since ACO and ACT declared Korte, Director, for excellent prepared and conducted 2008 “Year of the NCO”. You will find Joint Warfare Centre, ISAF training. Even confronted with a interesting perspectives by MSG Hash- continued from page 3 ››› lot of problems he never stopped mak- im “Woody” Woodard, and WO1 Jackie ing the best out of it. And that was usu- Guichard, along with views provided ally much more than what was to be ex- by many of the other NCOs we have at ily. At the same time, we welcome his pected. Both will leave a gap, which will the Joint Warfare Centre, showing the successor, Brigadier General (S) Scott D. be difficult to fill. This is not said to dis- breadth and depth they are working in. West and his family. We will introduce courage their successors who will, I am Captain (N) Furness, DivChief JED, offers BG West in more detail in the next issue sure, do the best they can. So, I would a comprehensive overview of our support of The Three Swords. like to offer a very warm welcome to to NRF/CJTF certification and comes Two other key leaders are leaving also Colonel Chuck Attwood and Colonel across with a really clear and concise this summer, Colonel Stephen Saulnier, Charles Sevin. abstract highly worth reading. There is DivChief of JTDD; and Colonel Paul Mo- Of course it is not only the Chief, and an interesting interview with Command- rillon, Chief SME Branch and DDivChief Steve and Paul who are leaving. As al- er John Coppard, Joint Training Officer of JTDD. Colonel Steve Saulnier has led ways in summer there is an intensive at HQ SACT whilst LCDR Brian Marsh JTDD for three years. As Chief Training rotating in and out of JWC. Every single elaborates on CIMIC in Afghanistan and Team he was responsible for the con- one who is leaving deserves actually to the ISAF PRT engagement. Highlighting duct of no less than eight STEADFAST be recognized for his or her contribu- these, but not defering all the other con- Serious Exercises. He became prob- tions to JWC’s performance and success tributors and articles, I am sure that you ably the most prominent face of JWC in the same way; many thanks therefore are holding a fascinating issue of our NATO. Thanks to his outstanding per- to all of them and a heartily welcome to magazine in your hands. For the upcom- formance, JWC was able to establish its all our newcomers. ing quarter, enjoy your deserved holi- reputation in the training environment. The present issue of The Three Swords days and some time with your families, The same can be said about Colonel features Non-Commissioned Officers come back safe and sound! Ulsnes

16 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Afghanistan

“It is up to us to understand and adapt to the environment we operate in, not demand the environment adapt to us.”

Effective Photo by NATO Communication Strategies in Afghanistan

Interview by Inci Kucukaksoy, JWCPAO

In this interview, Commander John Coppard, CAN N, Joint Training and Special Events Ofﬁcer, Public Affairs Ofﬁce, Headquarters, Supreme Allied Command Transformation (HQ SACT), explains the role of effective communications to maintain local Afghan and international support for helping rebuild Afghanistan.

Can you please tell us about your- PAOs throughout NATO, including JWC, namic security environment. Many of self? When did you join HQ ACT? who support and deliver PA training the failures I witnessed during my time I joined ACT as the Joint Education and within their organizations. in Afghanistan were the result of inter- Training Officer for Public Affairs in Oc- national organizations applying boiler- tober of 2007. Prior to that, I served for To begin, please explain what NATO’s plate approaches - mostly Western ones a year as a Strategic Communications transformation means to you? - to an environment for which they were Advisor to the Afghan Government in I like to start one of my PA lectures completely ill-suited. For example, if you Kabul, the highlight of a ten year career at NATO School (Oberammergau) with are a communicator like me, and you are as a full-time PAO, (I was a surface war- an image of the front cover of The trying to help the Government develop fare officer before then), including sev- Economist, November 2007 edition. It better ways of reaching out to ordinary en months as a NATO Spokesman and is entitled “Brains Not Bullets: How to Afghans on subjects such as school and Chief PAO for MND (SW) in Banja Luka Fight Future Wars”. That sort of sums community protection, counter-narcot- in 2002. In my current capacity I am up transformation for me. We, in NATO, ics, or corruption, the typical approach responsible for military Public Affairs must continue to “carry a big stick”, but is to recommend a mass media adver- Education and Training Standards and we also need to be a thinking organi- tising campaign. This is something we, Doctrine across NATO. It is a big job, zation. Specifically, we need to harness in the communications business, are but I am part of a larger team, which the tremendous intellectual capacity taught since it works well in a western includes my ACT colleague, Ms. Andrea resident in NATO to understand and context. But if you investigate a little, Eperjesi from Hungary, and the many constantly adapt to a complex and dy- you realize that Afghanistan represents ►►►

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 17 Afghanistan

(SAT). We were the product of a 2005 insurgency doctrine, General Hillier bi-lateral agreement between Afghani- recognized the need immediately. The stan and Canada, that resulted from challenge for Canada, however, was a request by President Karzai to then that no other government organization ISAF Commander, General Rick Hillier. was able to field people with the pre- The President wanted advisors to requisite strategic planning skills and work within his nascent ministries to experience in conflict zones, so it pri- help with basic planning, staff work, marily fell to us in uniform to get the and capacity building, something des- job done. perately needed in a country whose Our approach was unique, especially civil service was virtually destroyed af- for a military organization. We worked ter close to 30 years of warfare. Since in plain clothes and reported to work, re-connecting the government to the day in and day out, individually, or in people is a key element of post-conflict small groups, to the Afghan ministries a completely different challenge, where peacebuilding, and core to counter- we supported. We prided ourselves in different approaches are needed. News- papers, for example, do not reach most audiences, since newspaper distribution is extremely poor, and over 70 percent of Afghans are illiterate, particularly rural residents. Placing television ads is also not a panacea, since only about 30 percent of Afghans have access to television. But discounting these media entirely is also not the solution, since print media in Afghanistan often dic- tates what is being reported on the radio and television, and television itself is expanding rapidly, and becoming more politicized. As for radio, it is widely subscribed, but there are gaps in coverage and large variations between when, for example, women and men listen. Add to that significant regional and demo- graphic variations in media credibility, and the fact that Afghanistan is a highly collectivist society where face-to-face contact is vital but often extremely difficult due to insecurity or the remote- ness of communities, and you have got a real communications challenge on your hands. But these are the sorts of challenges which transformational organizations can, and must deal with. It is up to us to understand and adapt to the environment we operate in, not demand the environment adapt to us.

You spend a year in Afghanistan as a Communications Advisor to the Af- ghan Government. Could you please tell us about your work there? I was the only Communications Advi- sor on a 16-person team comprised of ﬁeld-grade staff ofﬁcers and two civil- Islamic Republic of Afghanistan President, Hamid Karzai, photo by ISAF PAO. ians called the Strategic Advisory Team ►►►

18 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Afghanistan

guests of their shura we were treated NAC visit to Afghanistan: Joint Press Conference following meeting with Afghan President Karzai - Ambassador Minuto Rizzo (Deputy NATO Secretary General), with the utmost courtesy and respect. photo by NATO. Overall, the violence is certainly brutal and intense - just ask the troops who do the fighting - but it is largely local- ized in certain districts in the East and South. My second expectation, based on some of my experiences in the Balkans, was that many Afghans would resent our presence and actively resist our efforts to assist them. Fortunately, nothing could have been further from the truth. Most Afghans I met were anxious to set about the (re)building of their country and grateful for any assistance in getting the job done. Indeed, having received so little from their state intui- tions over the years (the Taliban were particularly incapable of providing services to the people), Afghans have being integral members of the Ministe- privileged to join about 80 commu- developed a strong sense of self-reli- rial staffs we supported, and did all we nity leaders from the Panjwayi District ance and an entrepreneurial spirit to could to maintain their trust and confi- shura at a luncheon for the Minister of rival any I have seen in the world. I am dence. During my time with the team, I Rural Rehabilitation and Development confident that if given the ‘breathing mostly focused my efforts on the non- and the Provincial Governor. What room’ they need to rebuild their secu- security sector, specifically Ministries made this remarkable to me was that rity institutions, and a helping hand to that had national presence and impact the event took place only a few months allow their state institutions to provide on the lives of ordinary Afghans, such after OPERATION MEDUSA, where my services to the people, Afghanistan is as the Ministry of Rural Rehabilita- countrymen fought ‒ and several died well positioned for success. tion and Development, the Ministry ‒ in a largely successful operation to of Education, and the Civil Service re- dislodge the Taliban from that area. It ISAF is the largest mission NATO form body. I was also involved with was a somewhat unsettling experience has ever conducted outside its usual the Strategic Communications working since many of those present were un- area. How big a role, in your view, Group (SCWG), which coordinated the doubtedly Taliban sympathizers, but as should effective communications play messages of the international commu- for ISAF’s success? nity - including ISAF - with those of the Currently there is a lot of focus, Government of Afghanistan. Our goal rightfully so, on communicating to the was to counter the communications ac- publics in Troop Contributing Nations tivities of the insurgents and ensure a about the nature of the ISAF mission positive and consistent government/in- and why it is important. But commu- ternational message to the people. nicating with the Afghan population is also critical to mission success, because When you took that mission, what nobody, least of all a people who have were your expectations and goals? suffered the depradations of foreign oc- Like a lot of people who were inun- cupation, wants armed foreigners on dated with television images of combat their streets. At the end of the day, to and roadside bombings in Afghanistan, be effective, ISAF needs to be seen by I expected the violence and destruction the majority of the population as a force to be a lot more pervasive than it was. for good. Fortunately, most reputable In fact, the vast majority of Afghanistan national surveys show that ordinary is completely peaceful. I know this from Afghans, with certain regional and eth- personal experience since I travelled in- nic/tribal exceptions, continue to have cident-free for weeks at a time through- a favourable view of ISAF. Conversely, if out much of the country, including Kan- you have read anything about Afghan Operation Medusa, photo by ISAF PAO dahar where my colleague and I were history, you will know that Afghans are ►►►

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 19 Afghanistan

CDR Coppard, with Minister Ehsan Zia and his advisor and Kandahar Governor but also International Organizations, Khalid, Spring 2007, Kandahar, Afghanistan. NGOs, the private sector, and civil society, whether they are in Kabul or in the countryside where 80 percent of the population lives. Afghanistan is a collective society where personal contact matters greatly, and the wider international community works more on negotiation and consen- sus than military structures are used to. Getting out of “the wire” and meeting our counterparts obviously entails increased risk, but that is part of the job, especially in transformational organizations. I personally believe that most Troop-Contributing Nations are willing to accept both the mission and the casualties that unfortunately come with it, but only if they believe that the cause is worth fighting for, and progress is being made. Both are true in Afghanistan, but we have got to keep communicating uniquely capable of making uninvited tive working with, but not for, ISAF. that fact. guests feel very unwelcome indeed. The From my observations, I think the most fact that we are able to operate in most important thing for ISAF officers and Can you provide some examples of parts of the country - and achieve suc- NCOs to understand that they work in the impact of effective communica- cess - is a testiment to the fact that most a wider strategic context. There is an tions that you have seen in the time Afghans treat us as invited guests. It is Afghan Compact, UN Millennium Devel- that you have been there? something we forget at our peril. opment Goals, and an Afghan National The best example of effective com- Development Strategy, which are key munications I witnessed was the visit of Do you have any recommendations? parts of the roadmap to Afghanistan’s His Excellency Mohammad Ehsan Zia, How do you think this can be imple- future. They are documents, which Afghanistan’s Minister of Rural Reha- mented in JWC’s military training in must be understood by ISAF’s opera- bilitation and Development, to Kanda- preparation of NATO’s operational tional commanders and staffs, so would har in the spring of 2007. He was from commanders? form a logical part of JWC training. a different region and ethnic/linguistic I had a unique but valuable perspec- A second but related point is that group from his hosts, but had worked ISAF needs to know as much as they hard to master Pashto and was clearly can about the other international and respected by everyone as a man of great GIRA players - their agendas, capabili- substance and personal integrity. He ties and limitations. We, in the armed spent several days travelling to projects forces, tend to have a can-do attitude, and shuras, meeting face-to-face with something which earns us the (grudg- elders and negotiating not just how ing at times) respect of those we work his Ministry could help them - through with, but which can be a help or a hin- initiatives such as the National Solidar- drance depending on who we are deal- tiy Program or Microfinance - but how ing with. Giving commanders and their communities could help themselves staffs a theoretical background on the and their government by, for example, other players and their mandates is cer- banding together to protect develop- tainly something to consider for JWC ment projects and ministry workers. training, but equally important is that I will never forget the long lines of vil- - once in theatre - ISAF staff officers and lage elders from all over the province NCOs get out of the compound regularly waiting patiently in the hot sun to meet to meet and negotiate the people whose the Minister, or of the Minister himself work impacts their’s and vice versa. sitting cross-legged amongst them pa- That includes, most importantly, tiently negotiating well into the night. members of the Afghan Government, It was the front lines of nation-building, ►►►

20 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 and an excellent example of effective, respect for elders, dressing modestly, face-to-face communications. entering a room in the right order of Another example originated from the precedence, or showing sensitivity dur- Ministry of Hajj and Religious Affairs. ing religious observances such as Ra- There was considerable concern at the madan, when people fast and become time that those returning from the Hajj, tired and irritable. In a wider sense, it the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, is tremendously useful to have a basic were being exposed to anti-government understanding of Islam, since there is propaganda and encouraged to com- no division of church and state - as we mit acts of violence against Afghan and would understand it - in Islamic coun- international security forces. The Min- tries such as Afghanistan. But there istry arranged for informational pam- are important variances in that too, phlets to be distributed on every seat in for example, Wahabism as practiced in every plane carrying Afghans back from Saudi Arabia is completely alien to Af- the Hajj. These pamphlets contained ghanistan, where worship is practiced both text speaking of the Government’s in a more individual way. Add to that commitment to Islamic principles, and ethnic and tribal differences, and there images of the President participating in is enough to keep an army of cultural the Hajj himself, for those who were il- anthropologists occupied for centuries. Recommended Reading: literate. It was an example of using the To get some insight into specific top- right communications tool and the right ics, I recommend a visit to the excellent Taliban: Militant Islam, Oil and time to do the job. library of the Afghanistan Research and Fundamentalism in Central Asia, Evaluation Unit (AREU); the staff are by Ahmed Rashid What are your views about cultural incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, awareness? What is your advice to the and post a lot of good information on upcoming ISAF rotation? their website. There is also a relatively The Dust of Empire, by Karl Meyer I was very pleased to learn that Joint new Afghan-run think-tank called the Warfare Centre is adding cultural Centre for Conflict and Peace Studies, Kabul in Winter: Life Without Peace awareness to its training package be- which is doing some fine analysis in in Afghanistan, by Ann Jones cause it is absolutely critical in so many support of policy-makers. ways. Particularly, if you are working For reading, there are infinite choic- The Kite Runner, in Protocol, CIMIC, Force Protection, es, but books such as Taliban by Ahmed by Khaled Hosseini Key Leader Engagement, Liaison, Con- Rashid were particularly helpful to tracting, Operational Planning, Psy- me. The Dust of Empire, Kabul in Win- The Places in Between, chological Operations, Intelligence, or ter, The Kite Runner and The Places In by Rory Stewart Public Affairs, it is an absolute must. Between were also worth reading for Fortunately, Afghan history and cul- a socialogical perspective, and all my A Short Walk in Hindu Kush, ture is fascinating, so learning about it friends highly recommended The Book- by Eric Newby should be a joy for the inquiring mind. seller of Kabul, although I never got There are many layers to what can be around to reading it. A Short Walk in broadly described as ‘cultural aware- the Hindu Kush is good fun, and Flash- Flashman, ness’ in Afghanistan. At its simplest, man is the ultimate guilty pleasure for by George McDonald Fraser cultural awareness means learning at someone who love history and political- least some of the basics in the local lan- incorrectness in equal measure. Charlie Wilson’s War, guage, which can be Pashto, Dari, Haz- Finally, if you want some insight into by George Crile aragi or one of a host of others depend- American politics and the defeat of So- ing on where you are located. viet forces in Afghanistan, I strongly Dari, as the language of the national recommend the wonderfully-written government, can be useful for those Charlie Wilson’s War. Fortunately, Afghan based in Kabul. It is essentially Persian, and is quite logical. It only took me a history and culture few lessons before I could have a basic is fascinating, so conversation with our guards, much to their amusement. Cultural aware- learning about it ness can also be simple but important should be a joy for the elements of protocol, such as showing “inquiring mind.” JWC WORKSHOP

Interviews by Inci Kucukaksoy, JWC PAO

Scripting forSteadfast JUNCTURE MEL/MIL Scripting and STARTEX Validation Workshop for Exercise Steadfast Juncture 08 (SFJE 08) took place at the JWC exercise facility in Ulsnes between 21-30 April 2008.

The aim of the MEL/MIL Scripting Work- comes for Incidents and Injects ensuring sponsibility. SFJE 08 is a two-level Com- shop was to finalize the Incident devel- they are observable and are focused on bined Joint exercise, utilizing NATO’s opment and to script all associated In- the Exercise and Training Objectives, land-based Deployable Joint Task Force jects for the actual exercise in May. - Ensure sufficient functional area and (DJTF) Headquarters capability. SFJE 08 Component-level play to meet Training will focus on execution of an NRF stand- The specific objectives were: Objectives and Training Audience de- alone CRO, including Initial Entry. - Familiarize all participants with friendly sired level of ambition. The aim is to train, integrate and evalu- force and SITFOR lay-downs at STARTEX, ate the NRF 11 command structure, in- - Script all Injects within Incidents with a Exercise Steadfast Juncture 08 is a NATO cluding: NATO’s JC HQ Lisbon (static, focus on adding realistic detail, Response Force (NRF) four-phase Com- DJTF HQ and Reach Back); JLSG; LCC - Develop Actions to take place within mand Post Exercise (CPX) in a NATO-led (RRC FRA HQ); MCC (SPMARFOR); ACC the computer simulation to target spe- Crisis Response Operation (CRO) under (UK JFACHQ); SOCC (IT JSFOC); MN cific Exercise and Training Objectives, Chapter VII of the Charter of the United CBRN Def Bn HQ (CBRN BN FR) and NBC - Refine and develop expected out- Nations, beyond NATO’s Area of Re- Joint Assessment Team (FRA lead).

22 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Wing Commander Alex Mason, GBR AF, Joint Training Development Division, Joint Warfare Centre

“I am the Chief Main Event List/Main Incident List (MEL/MIL) for Stead- fast Juncture 08, which means that it is my job to put together the whole plan in terms of how people react to each of the events and to make sure that the script we produce is coherent. The script has to produce a single, sensible storyline, which we can follow during the duration of the actual exercise. There are more than 70 people at the Workshop right now and a lot of effort goes into it. Also, we have a new exercise scenario, dubbed as CERASIA, which is created by the JWC Scenario team. Overall, I think the JWC makes a signiﬁcant contribution to the NATO Response Force (NRF). We run NATO’s NRF training and make sure that the Training Audience practices tackling the difﬁculties early; before the actual NRF deployment.”

Peggy Mason, Canada’s former UN Ambassador for disarmament; Canadian Peacebuilding Coordinating Committee Executive Commitee Chair

“The MEL/MIL Scripting Conference for Juncture 08 has been particularly challenging because we are dealing with a brand new scenario, as compared to the previous series of exercises based on a mature scenario in MADA. As a UN political and diplomatic Subject Matter Ex- pert, I am particularly gratified that this exercise includes role play for key components of a typical UN Peace Operation: UN Civilian Police (UNPOL) and UN Military Observers (UNMOs), as well as UN Political Af- fairs officers at both the DJTF and LCC levels. Regarding UN Police, this will be the first time to my knowledge that a JWC-led exercise seeks to incorporate them into the active play. At Startex, the UN Military Steadfast Observers and the UN Police are the only international forces able to operate on the Kamon-occupied part of the Tori Pocket. This will put a premium on effective coordination and information sharing between the UN mission (UNMEC) and NISFOR at both the operational and tac- JUNCTURE tical levels.”

Captain Rich Vogel, US N, Commander, NATO Deployable Operations Group

“Our syndicate has been working on International and Non-Gov- ernmental Organizations as well as host nation interaction with the scenario. Specifically, we have focused on detention; prisoners cap- tured by the combatant forces, and human trafficking. We had a very good team. Our incidents were less complex than many, because they were single events. They didn’t have far reaching, long durations. The teams pulled it together and we created challenging scenarios for the NATO Response Force. Currently, Headquarters ACT has 200 US Navy and one US Army Reservists assigned. When we do exercises we also receive augmentation from other nations from their reserves. Usually, each Steadfast Exercise receives between 20-30 augmentees for the actual execution. I am the only ACT Reservist now scripting the exercise. I think it has been very interesting to be involved in the first- time scripting of a new scenario. It will be interesting to see the impact of our scripting efforts.”

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 23 JWC WORKSHOP Mark Blaydes, Scenario Group, JWC

“My role during Steadfast Juncture 08 MEL/MIL is to make sure that everything that we do is compatible with the Exercise Scenario, and with the guidance from the Chief MEL/MIL. I also have the particular responsibility for the Humanitarian Event and work very closely with the IOs and NGOs, as well as the associated Event Manager to ensure that we give the appropriate level of information in the right level of play within the exercise. I think that each JWC exercise I have participat- ed develops further and further in terms of what we provide especially in the humanitarian and political area. This exercise illustrates this, with the introduction of the UN Police as well as the UN Military Observers. In Steadfast Joist, we made a big improvement in the political area, boosted with the addition of SHAPE as part of the Training Audience. This gave further impetus to the development of the political interaction between Training Audience, IO, NGO, Host Nation, and UN in order to provide the correct level of play from the NAC to the Training Audience. If you don’t exercise the political aspect as well, then you are not exercising the complete spectrum of an exercise with United Nations involvement. I have been intimately involved with writing the Cerasia Scenario for the need for a signiﬁcant level of detail in the scenario in order to last 16 months. It is signiﬁcantly different from the previous cater for EBAO, but also balance that with a knowledge of Mada scenario because of the geography, climate, proxy just how little time the Training Audience has for preparation forces, role for NATO forces, interaction with other military prior to the exercise. We believe that we have achieved this forces, as well as the sheer scale of the exercise. When we, aim, but Phase III of Exercise Steadfast Juncture will highlight in the Scenario Group developed this, we were aware of the how successful we have been.”

Commander Eric Baad-Heimer, SWE AF, Capability Development Division, JWC

“I am the Event Manager responsible for the Humanitarian and Political Event at Steadfast Juncture 08. As you know, this event includes many challenging incidents to respond to. The team is mostly made up of civilians. When we develop MEL/MIL incidents for the actual exercise, civilians share their knowledge and expertise with the military taking part in the event. Basically, what we do is we merge civilian thinking and military thinking, which I ﬁnd quite interesting. Actually, I learn a lot from this exercise. Being a PfP ofﬁcer in this post was not a problem during the Workshop, but exercises run on NATO Secret workstations or in Jåttå are, because I don’t have access to NSWAN. More generally, what I can say is that Chief MEL/MIL Wg Cdr Mason, and all four Event Man- agers are very well prepared for the actual exercise.”

Read More: The September issue of The Three Swords will feature an extensive article about STEADFAST ! JUNCTURE 08, Phase III.

24 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Graham Day, Lieutenant Colonel Stale Ljoeterud, Former UN peacekeeper from Canada who served in NOR A, Bosnia and East Timor Joint Exercise Division, JWC (UN POLAD and Police Role Player at the Workshop) “I am the Event Manager II for Steadfast Juncture 08, which “I spent the last 15 years either on Peace Support Missions or is dealing with the Asymmetric Threats. Together with a team learning about them and training for them. You could say of 17 people we have been scripting injects for this event. To that I am an experienced practitioner. More than 15 years create coherent and successful injects it is essential to have ago, I was actually associated with the Navy in both Canada professional knowledge about different functional areas. and the United Kingdom. And, from what I remember of the Basically, I have prepared the baseline of all the storylines exercises then, these current exercises are much more realis- and my team is providing their expertise. The challenge is tic and much more focused on actual possible events in the to retain good track of those injects being created and to world, rather than a single great World War or catastrophic know the structure of the DJTF in order to make sure that they event. So, I would say that whilst exercises don’t have to try are injected in a realistic way. It is also a challenge to know to predict where the next problem will come, they should about all the structures that are working outside the military be of a size and style that will help those military men and realm. But, we have a good cooperation with the IO and women who will have to go to the next conflict. Realism is NGO representatives who are providing their expertise for us very important, and this is quite a realistic exercise. when we have I am playing a number of roles: I play UN Political Officer, UN questions. As a Police and also UN Military Observer. That’s because I have result, my team actually observed a little of these roles in the field. What is and I together important about having the Police is the acknowledgement have created a that the problems that the NATO force will be sent to deal lot of challeng- with will be primarily political problems; they will be civil and ing injects for social problems. This means that many of the problems will the exercise. It be law and order problems, not military problems. Therefore, is also my obser- inviting the Police to come to the Scripting Workshop and vation that in or- getting law and order issues correctly into the script are all der to continue very encouraging steps for NATO to take. The staff should providing good always press for realism by involving as many people from exercise play the field as possible. in the future, The thing about the training situation is that nobody gets it could be an killed. No actual planes fly, no actual bullets are fired, so it idea to create is the time to do experiments. When you get into a real field a library of inci- situation, the Commander should not experiment with sol- dents instead of diers’ lives. It is the classroom that is the place to make exper- re-writing all of iments. So, as an outsider, I would encourage the JWC staff them for each to seek as much realism as you can get and push your clients upcoming ex- into adventurous and daring solutions, which they can exercise. We can periment within the safety of an exercise, so that they may save a lot of find out how to do the real thing in a different way when they time and further go to the field for real.” improve them.”

Francesca Dell’Acqua, Italian IO-NGO Subject Matter Expert

“I have been working with different international organizations, mainly UN in a number of missions including Bosnia, Ni- geria, Indonesia and East Timor. I am here as Subject Matter Expert (SME) on IO-NGO work, and I have covered the humanitarian intervention in Eastern Cerasia in the capacity of Regional Humanitarian Coordinator. This exercise has been quite a challenging one considering the amount of coordination needed. I tried to do the best I could to coordinate with the different events in order to have work that is covered from every aspect. The more people I get to work with, the better I can contribute, and I do enjoy working with such an interesting group of experts. Each exercise falls into different phases, and if you happen to work with the same people, then it is easier because you don’t have to go back to explain; and if the same people attend the MEL/MIL Scripting, then it helps make our work easier, because we can be consistent.”

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 25 Farewell

By Colonel Steve Saulnier, CAN A, Chief Joint Training and Development Division, Joint Warfare Centre

REFLECTIONS REFLECTIONS on THREE YEARS at JWC...

F all goes according to plan (and because we now struggle to deliver a The first is the idea of the five C’s: com- we know how likely that is!) I will Programme of Work that has become un- munication, common sense, courtesy, turn in my security pass on July sustainable given our current resources. comedy and coffee. It turns out that all 7th, as my last official duty follow- Delivering three STEADFAST exercises, of these (and lots of other things) are ingI almost exactly three years at the JWC. two ISAF training events, two Iraqi Key cultural. What someone thinks is good In retrospect, it is really quite amazing Leader Training events and one or two communication, common sense, courte- to reflect on how much innovation and STEADFAST ENABLER experimentation progress JWC has made in training over exercises every year has many JWC Col. Saulnier with Lt. Gen. Korte, Director the past three years, although it has been members running from one training JWC, Ulsnes, Steadfast Juncture 08 a little like knowing your children are event or planning conference to the next. growing, but not noticing because you We have little opportunity to pause and see them every day. Over the past three reflect on Lessons Learned and almost years we have developed and delivered no time to train ourselves. an Advanced Distributed Learning ca- But these grumbles are problems that pability; a generic, repeatable Academ- will remain after I leave and will be for ics package to prepare headquarters for others to fix. As for me, I have collected NRF and CJTF operations; a deliberate a few “take-aways”, ideas that stick in my “training effects-based” MEL/MIL devel- mind, on working in the NATO environ- opment process that uses training objec- ment that I thought might be of interest tives as its point of reference; an expand- to those who are staying on. ed scenario development capability that provides an incredibly rich exercise experience; a robust capability to role-play JWC’s training facility at Ulsnes as seen from onboard USS Mount Whitney: non-military actors; a deliberate training “JWC’s brand is recognized across NATO as the pre-eminent provider of joint, improvement process and a programme operational level training.” to deploy members of JWC to Afghanistan for familiarization with the ISAF mission. We have grown our exercise and training development capability from a cot- tage industry dependent on one or two single points of failure to a methodical, deliberate, almost industrially repeatable process with half a dozen major training events under development at any given time. Three years ago, we were preoc- cupied with building our credibility with training audiences, whereas now the JWC’s brand is recognized across NATO as the pre-eminent provider of joint, operational level training. Of course, progress never comes eas- ily, and JWC may in fact have been too successful in establishing its credibility, ►►► 26 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Farewell

JWC Division Chiefs and Director of Staff (from left): Col. Edgren, Col. Saulnier, Col Rønning, Capt (N) Furness, Col. Hellebust, Col. Peacock sy, comedy or coffee depends on where Mentors). Officers who have served as der his wing and showing me the ropes he comes from. A successful NATO staff OTs at the JWC are uniquely prepared to in my first year at the JWC; to Lt. Gen. officer will probably recognize that there become successful staff officers in NATO (Ret.) Steve Croker, for patiently teaching is no absolute right or wrong in these and national headquarters. me almost everything I know about joint things, just a lot of differences, and try I suppose my final take-away is that operations, and to StabsFw Thomas Wi- not to get too flustered or insulted when the patron saint of NATO staff officers is egaertner and Flt. Sgt. Stéphanie Macoc- things are not exactly as he or she would probably Saint Augustine, who famously co for providing superb administrative expect in a national context. prayed: “God, grant us the serenity to ac- support and bearing my frequent last- My second take-away is that we, native cept those things we cannot change, the minute requests for travel with patience English speakers, do not try hard enough courage to change those things we can, and professionalism. Thanks too to Lt. to ensure we are communicating effec- and the wisdom to know the difference.” Col. Steve Phillips for his creativity and tively with non-native English speakers. It is also the prayer of Alcoholics steadfastly loyal support and to Wg. Cdr. We tend to talk too quickly, use regional Anon ymous, and anyone who has worked Alex Mason for reminding me my fam- or national expressions and expect that with General Steve Croker and his noto- ily needed me, and for kicking me out of our non-native-speaking colleagues will rious comment that training audiences the office at the end of a long day more just have to try harder to keep up with us. have to “admit they’re alcoholics” before times than I care to remember. Finally, We also tend to talk much more than we we can help them will enjoy the irony! my wife Julie and my boys Eric and Louis listen, often to our disadvantage. It would Having got that out of my system, I have borne my long hours and frequent probably be a useful, humbling experience am conscious that yesterday’s innovative absences with patience and good humour for all of us native English speakers to be thinking becomes tomorrow’s impedi- I suspect I might not show were our roles required to learn Norwegian, for example, ment to further progress, and it is time to be reversed. just to remind ourselves how difficult it is for fresh blood and fresh ideas in JTDD. We will miss Norway, with its rugged to learn and master a foreign tongue. Colonel Chuck Attwood of the Canadian beauty and independent people, their My third take-away is that acting as Air Force and I will have completed about cra zy New Years’ fireworks displays and an Observer/Trainer (OT) on NATO ex- half of our handover by the time this edi- the stirring national pride they show every ercises is a superb professional develop- tion of The Three Swords is published, year on the 17th of May. We wish JWC and ment opportunity. OTs see multinational and I am confident he will lead the Divi- all its members “ha det bra” and a fond “au NATO staffs grapple with complex joint, sion forward with energy and insight. revoir”, because we will meet again. operational planning, coordination and I am grateful for the support of a long Despite having spent three years at execution problems, engage in enrich- list of people, including all the past and JWC, this is Colonel Saulnier’s first article ing professional discussions on a daily present members of JTDD and many in- for the Three Swords! He is returning to basis, and have the opportunity to work dividuals across the JWC. A few stand Canada to take up his new responsibili- directly with retired two, three and four- out, and I am particularly grateful to Lt. ties as the G6 and Director of Signals for star NATO commanders (our Senior Col. Thomas Steenberg, for taking me un- the Canadian Army. 

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 27 C-IED

Operational Countering – Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IED)C-IED Seminar at the JWC

By Major Frank Tordeur, BEL A SO Concepts, CDD, JWC

Introduction Asymmetric threats are characterising there is a critical requirement to enhance strategy is built on three principles, the nature of current NATO operations its ability to counter the IED threat. each with its complementary functions, and they will continue to do so for the as follows: foreseeable future. Improvised Explosive Countering IED Principles 1. Defeating IED System/Attack- Devices (IEDs) are the prime example of The NATO Countering Improvised Ex- ing the Network: The aim of Defeating such asymmetric threats and they con- plosive Devices (C-IED) doctrine (draft) the IED System is to eliminate our op- tinue to be the main cause of injuries and sets up a defeat strategy and architec- ponent’s ability and will to construct fatalities in Afghanistan, among not only ture that will lead to the development of and employ IEDs. Defeating the IED ISAF forces and Afghan National Security a common operational ability to defeat System(s) requires a signiﬁcant amount Forces, but also mainly among the civil- current and future IED threats to sup- of proactive effort, cooperation among ian population. NATO has recognised that port the NATO missions. The IED defeat NATO and other nations, understanding

“Ops led but Intel fed”

►►►

28 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 C-IED

Operational Countering –

Improvised Explosive Devices C-IED MODEL (C-IED)C-IED Seminar at the JWC

Timeframe

The C-IED Model above is developed by Dr. Eric Pouliquen, a French civilian working at HQ ACT. The IED event is broken down by time, and there are certain events that must occur over a period of time in order to get to the actual “boom”, depicted by the red volcano. Time starts at the far left a year out in this example and proceeds down the time chain until the actual “boom” to a period of time to the right after the event. Obviously not every event is on the same timeline. Some may take longer, some may be shorter. As you can see, the financer may be engaged sometime out and possibly continue to finance throughout. You also have the supplier, transporter, builder, planner, emplacer, and finally triggerman and exploiter on the right side of the boom. It flows in a logical timeline. You cannot have the emplacer or triggerman do his job until the bomb maker has built the device. In order for an IED to be laid, this process has to be started. As with all processes there are always “critical points”. Understanding this process will enable us to identify the “critical points” and then we can exploit it and disrupt it. This graphic provides a brief overview of the C-IED defeat strategy. The offensive part involve all the tactical, operational and strategic activities to predict and prevent attacks days, weeks and months in advance of an IED attack. These proactive efforts focus primarily on the enemy, his processes and locating IED components and are directed at attacking the network and breaking the IED event chain as early as possible and ultimately preventing the manufacture and/or emplacement of an IED. Defeating the Device involves tactical and operational activities to locate IEDs, prevent detonation, mitigate the effects of detonation and render devices safe. Efforts here focus primarily on neutralizing emplaced devices and rely heavily on intelligence, TTPs & technology. But, after an event has happened, we need to manage the event and with the analysis of Technical, Tactical and Forensic intelligence we build a picture that will help us to Predict or Prevent. The aiming point indicates were we should focus our efforts at the Operational Maj. Tordeur and Strategic level.

of the threat and the development and or the remains of an event. opponent and the common activities as- sharing of intelligence. This is best ac- 3. Training and Education: The C-IED sociated with an IED attack. Similar to complished by ‘Prediction’ and ‘Preven- Training and Education shall ensure that the classic Counter-Insurgency (COIN) tion’ activities. designated NATO forces, including those or the Counter-Terrorist (CT) fight, these 2. Defeating the IED: Defeating the from Partner Nations, possess the basic activities include leadership, planning, IED consists of all activities related to abilities to successfully conduct C-IED financing, IED designers, material pro- ‘Protection’ against the effects, ‘Detec- operations. Key to reducing the effect of curement, bomb-making, target selec- tion’ and ‘Neutralization’ of the device. IEDs on ISAF is awareness of the threat, tion, recruiting, and attack execution. A It includes the identification of effective combined with thorough training in Coun- holistic approach to understanding the Tactics, Techniques, Procedures (TTP); ter-IED (C-IED) Tactics, Techniques and requirements of an IED attack is vital the protection of friendly forces; and Procedures (TPs) prior to deployment. for commanders and planners in iden- the development of technologies that tifying vulnerabilities in the IED event detect, identify, classify, mark, and dis- The C-IED model chain. These vulnerabilities can then be rupt IEDs. It also includes the function Successful Countering-IED begins exploited to break the operational chain of ‘Exploitation’ of rendered safe devices with a thorough understanding of the of events of the opponent. ►►►

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 29 C-IED

As such it is very clear that at the Op- fight is not an ‘Engineer’ or EOD prob- quirements of a NATO Operational Com- erational level, the C-IED fight is the re- lem. It is a Commander’s problem with mander to conduct the C-IED Operations sponsibility of the entire Battle Staff with the J3/G3 in the lead and heavily sup- on attacking the network in a realistic ‘Operations’ in the lead and heavily supported by J2/G2. The seminar covered operational scenario. ported by the ‘Intelligence’ community. three topic areas: Introduction to asym- The objectives are to examine the metric threats and IEDs; responses to ability of potential Prototype C-IED Or- NATO Operational C-IED Seminar IED attacks and, attacking the system ganizations and C-IED capable Cross JWC is supporting NATO’s effort to and defeating the device. Discipline J1-9 Staff Elements of NRF develop a common C-IED capability by The seminar was fully subscribed with size Battle staffs to effectively conduct: mainly supporting the third pillar: Train- 44 Officers and Non-Commissioned Of- Prediction, Prevention, Detection, Neu- ing and Education. Between 21-25 April, ficers from 17 NATO countries attend- tralization and Exploitation of the IED and for the second time this year, the ing. ACT plans to organise a total of four network and the device. JWC hosted, on behalf of ACT, the NATO Operational C-IED seminars in 2008. Therefore, the Experiment in ENA- Operational C-IED seminar at its HQ in BLER 08-02 is designed to place C-IED Stavanger. This was the fourth time C-IED C2 experiment teams from ACO subordinate HQs and since its conception in 2006 that JWC As a next step in the further develop- National Corps HQs side by side with an was the host to this important training ment of a NATO C-IED capability, ACT ACT prototype C-IED C2 Organization event. These seminars are intended to in conjunction with the JWC, is planning Structure in order to observe, analyze familiarize Staff Officers and Senior to execute a NATO Operational C-IED C2 and evaluate the C2 capability of those Non-Commissioned Officers assigned to Experiment. The experiment will be con- structures. Findings will determine if Battle Staffs at Operational level Head- ducted between 16-26 September 2008 further experimentation with additional quarters with an overview of the IED as part of the JWC Stand Alone Event prototype organizations is required or network and approaches to attacking it. (SAE) ENABLER 08-02 at the JWC Train- whether it will provide a “Model C-IED The lessons are specifically designed ing Facility in Ulsnes. C2 Organization” for inclusion in the for J2/G2 and J3/G3 staff officers with The aim of the experiment is to evalu- NATO C-IED Doctrine. The Initial Plan- emphasis placed on Battle Staff interac- ate the utility of prototype C-IED Organi- ning Conference for ENABLER 08-02 tion. Another aim is to make the Battle zations and existing C-IED Organizations took place in May, at the NATO School Staffs aware that the Countering-IED and their Staff processes to meet re- in Oberammergau, Germany. 

JWC Farewells...

The JWC Command Group bid heartfelt farewell to six of its staff members on June 11, during an emotional ceremony at the Seven Shields. Brigadier General Ruhlman thanked the outgoing staff members for their dedicated service to the JWC. Ruhlman said, “What you have done here has been a tremendous service to this Centre.”

From left: MSG Woodard, WO Hilbert, MSGT Mazurczak, BG Ruhlman, Col. Hellebust, WO Bari, Lt. Ozdemir and WO Guichard

30 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Joint Analysis and Lessons Learned Centre

CIMIC in Afghanistan A long, hard look at ISAF’s PRT Engagement

By LCDR Brian Marsh, GBR N,

Photo by NATO JALLC Staff Ofﬁcer for CIMIC

N April of this year, NATO’s Joint and CIMIC issues affecting ISAF. Subse- form the in-theatre collection process, Analysis and Lessons Learned quently, all PRTs were invited to com- which took place over three-months. Centre (JALLC) published its re- plete a survey. The survey information An analysis team of three JALLC staff port on Provincial Reconstruction and background study was used to in- officers augmented by a Subject Mat- TeamI (PRT) and Civil-Military Coopera- ter Expert (SME) from the CIMIC Cen- tion (CIMIC) Operations in ISAF. This re- JALLC Team member tre of Excellence (CCOE) visited a total port was the culmination of an analysis Dr. Haggenmiller with Major Stoffers, of nine PRTs covering the spectrum of project that took nearly a full year to NLD (Police), CCOE SME the Afghan security and development complete. Initiated by ACT to satisfy re- environments ranging from the rela- quests from SHAPE and JFC Brunssum, tively benign security environment at the analysis was designed to address the Kunduz in the North, to the much higher core issues affecting the success of CIMIC risk area of Lashkar Gar in the South. In- and PRTs in Afghanistan and the report terviews were also conducted at all five focuses on providing an overview of cur- Regional Command locations, HQ ISAF rent PRT activities and approaches. and the offices of various International The analysis began with a study of rel- and Non-Governmental Organisations. evant OPLANs, NATO and UN documen- The opinions of key leadership figures tation together with a great deal of open were sought, including those of NATO’s source information. Members of the Senior Civilian Representative, mem- project team also attended numerous bers of the ISAF Command Group, the related conferences and NATO training UN Assistance Mission to Afghanistan’s events in order to develop a background (UNAMA) Civil-Military Coordinator and knowledge and awareness of the PRT Military Liaison Officer and the Director ►►►

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 31 Joint Analysis and Lessons Learned Centre

of the Agency Coordinating Body for Af- The author (right) on field collection with PRT Engagement Team South ghan Relief. members LCDR Cliff Stroud, CAN N, and Sgt Nilesh Ladd, CAN A The nature of CIMIC operations means that the effects of PRT operations are mostly measured qualitatively and sub- jectively. Therefore, much of the data collected depended upon the perspectives of the contributing individuals. To encourage a frank and honest exchange of opinions, much of the data collected was done so on a non-attributable basis. Advice from CIMIC SMEs - military and civilian - from both the CCOE and from within theatre, was used to establish a balanced and authoritative baseline for the analysis. Presenting a total of 29 recommendations, the report is intended to not only inform a NATO-wide audience, but it is hoped to be valuable for non-NATO reconstruction and development stake- holders. The report’s findings have been widely disseminated, not only to the This can have a negative impact upon principal commissioning customers, but the development of local security forces to a wider audience both inside and out- and hampers the establishment of an in- In Memoriam side of NATO. digenously sustained stable and secure Major Fernando Alberto da Silva Santos One of the major findings of the report environment. Portuguese Air Force is that the key coherency mechanism Improved Information Exchange and applicable to ISAF, the Afghan Govern- sharing could be used to improve inter- On 21 April, JALLC lost our good ment and to international contributors action and coherency between recon- friend and colleague, Major Fern- is provided by the Afghan National De- struction and development actors. ACT’s ando Santos, our Admin/Registry velopment Strategy (ANDS). This strate- ongoing CIMIC Fusion Centre/Civil-Mili- Chief, when he suffered a heart at- gy requires the full support of ISAF con- tary Overview (CFC/CMO) experiment is tack that afternoon. He was imme- tributors to enable the ANDS process by a promising initiative in this area. Sub- diately attended to by on-base med- ensuring that local Afghan leaders abide ject to the success of the experiment, ical personnel and quickly taken by ambulance to hospital, but sadly by the central priorities within the strat- means should be investigated to permit nothing could be done. He was 45. egy and by encouraging Troop Contrib- the transition from experiment to opera- Major Santos had been with JALLC uting Nations (TCNs) to implement poli- tional product. since January 2005, and during his cies that are consistent with and address JALLC’s PRT and CIMIC report is just time here was a valued and cher- the whole of the ANDS. the latest in a series of analyses into a ished member of our JALLC team. Another finding is that NATO needs to broad range of NATO activities that He is survived by his wife Celeste work towards better enabling UNAMA facilitates informed decision-making and two teenage children, son Tia- to effectively assume its role as the UN within the Alliance, both in support of go and daughter Filipa. We hope mandated development coordinator. current operations and NATO’s transfor- the entire JJJ community will share with us in our thoughts and prayers The ISAF-UNAMA relationship is not yet mation process. for him and his family. mature. The full report can be downloaded The balance between civilian and from the JALLC’s NSWAN website (nww. military capabilities with PRTs should jallc.nato.int). In addition, the conclu- be regarded as fluid in order to reflect sions and recommendations are includ- the prevailing security environment and ed within the NATO Lessons Learned the development needs and means avail- Databases - both classified and unclassi- able to the local population. This has not fied. These databases are also accessible always been the case with force levels through JALLC’s websites.  at some PRTS more dependant upon TCN policy than the security environment within which the PRT operates.

32 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 NATO Update

General McKiernan assumes command of ISAF

eneral McKiernan assumed ed. The Commander of JFC Brunssum, serve the people of Afghanistan,” he Command of ISAF from US General Ramms, who presided over the stated. “I offer the people of Afghanistan, General Dan McNeill during change of command, stressed: “Although many of whom are my friends, my grati- a handover ceremony held I recognize insecurity cannot be over- tude for the generosity and hospitality onG 3 June 2008 in Kabul. The President come by military means alone, I believe that they have shown me. My gratitude of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, ISAF is now better placed than ever to also goes to the Allied soldiers, sailors, air- Hamid Karzai, the Supreme Allied Com- facilitate the necessary stability for eco- men, Marines and civilians for what they mander Europe, General John Craddock nomic and social development and to have done and what they will continue to and the Commander of the Joint Forces cooperate with the Government of the do for the people of Afghanistan.” Command (JFC) Brunssum, General Egon Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the The new ISAF Commander, General Ramms, attended the event. UNAMA with an integrated approach.” McKiernan, has been in the US Army for “I am honored to serve alongside our General McNeill relieves his com- 36 years and has served in every capacity Afghan hosts and brothers to work to- mand of the ISAF Headquarters after a from platoon leader to numbered Army ward a common comprehensive set of 16 month tour of duty. After 40 years of commander in Europe, United States, Ko- goals,” said General McKiernan. “While commissioning in the US Army, he is due rea and Southwest Asia. His deployment today marks a transition in the com- to retire in July. experience includes, but is not limited to, manders, the mission must continue “It has been my privilege to have the Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Albania without missing a beat,” he added. honor to serve in this Alliance and to and Kosovo. (Text by ISAF PAO)  President Karzai welcomed the new ISAF Commander. “Together with the Above: Islamic Republic of Afghanistan President, Hamid Karzai stands alongside outgo- Afghan ofﬁcers, Ministry of Defense and ing International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Commander, General Dan K. McNeill, the Chief of the Afghan Army you will Commander of Joint Forces Command Brunssum, General Egon Ramms, and incoming work to promote the standards to the ISAF Commander, General David D. McKiernan as they pay respect to both countries’ Afghan Army, you will equip them better national anthems at the ISAF Change of Command Ceremony. NATO-led ISAF is operat- and eventually enable them to serve and ing under a UN mandate aimed at improving security, governance, reconstruction and defend this country themselves,” he stat- development. (NATO photo by Senior Master Sgt. Andrew E. Lynch, US Air Force.)

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 33 Special Reading: British Gurkhas

By Lieutenant Colonel Simon Dewing, GBR A, CDD, JWC

Gurkhas and the British Comrades in Arms

his is a story in the annals of when my Grandfather joined the Indian Gorkha led by its dynamic King, Prithwi British Military History and Army in the 1890s. I am the third gen- Narayan Shah. Gorkha was a feudal hill Boys Own imagination. It en- eration of my family to serve either with village in what is now western Nepal, the Tcompasses nearly two centu- the Indian Army or the British Brigade village from which the Gurkha takes its ries of comradeship and hardship, span- of Gurkhas, but I understand that it is name. Prithwi Narayan Shah and his suc- ning the Asian, African and European perhaps difficult for many to conceive cessors grew so powerful that they over- continents. It is about an alliance between of service with people of another nation, ran the whole of the hill country from the two independent sovereign nations, Ne- but in the British Army of old this was Kashmir border in the west to Bhutan in pal and Great Britain, who went on a considered a prize worth achieving. the east (about 2000 kms). Eventually, as journey and stood together through the a result of boundary disputes and repeat- Indian Mutiny; the Great Game (Russian » THE BEGINNING - GURKHAS, NEPAL ed raids by Gurkha columns into British Expansion into South Asia); two World AND THE EAST INDIA COMPANY territory, the Governor General declared Wars; the break up of the Indian sub The Gurkha story began when General war on Nepal in 1814. After two long continent (becoming India and Pakistan); Robert Clive won his decisive victory at and bloody campaigns, a Peace Treaty South East Asian post colonial growing the Battle of Plassey, against England’s was signed at Sugauli in 1816. pains; The Falklands War to the current old adversary, France, in 1757. This firm- During the war a deep feeling of mutu- day of Iraq and Afghanistan. Although I ly established British supremacy in India al respect and admiration had developed have concluded with the current day, the thereby opening the door for expansion between the British and their adversaries, names Afghanistan, Kut-al-Amarah, the of the Honourable East India Company. the British being much impressed by the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers and Baghdad Some 10 years after Plassey, the British fighting qualities of the Gurkha soldier. were already known as battle honours started to encounter a unique and vigor- earned by the Gurkha Regiments in pre- ous power on the northern borders of Picture above shows Tulbahadur vious campaigns. its newly won territories in Bengal and PunVc flanked by serving British My journey to this point in time started Bihar. This power was the city-state of and Gurkha officers, 2007. ►►►

34 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Special Reading: British Gurkhas

Under the terms of the Peace Treaty f o r o v e r t h r e e m o n t h s . D u r i n g t h i s p e r i o d i n g t h e t r i b a l w a r r i o r s o f t h e N o r t h W e s t large numbers of Gurkhas were permit- t h e 2nd G o o r k h a s s u f f e r e d 3 2 7 c a s u a l t i e s F r o n t i e r f r o m t h e i r f a v o u r i t e g a m e o f ted to volunteer for service in the East In- ( i n c l u d i n g 8 o f t h e i r 9 B r i t i s h O f fi c e r s ) s h o o t i n g , s t e a l i n g a n d s m u g g l i n g f r o m dia Company’s Army. From these volun- o u t o f a t o t a l s t r e n g t h o f 4 9 0 . 1 2 N e p a - t h e i r e n e m i e s a n d t h e r i c h ‘ A n g r e s i ’ i n teers were formed the first regiments of l e s e A r m y R e g i m e n t s , a f o r c e o f 8 , 0 0 0 t h e s o u t h . B u t , i r o n i c a l l y , w h e n t h e B r i t - the Gurkha Brigade. From this time stems m e n , u n d e r t h e p e r s o n a l l e a d e r s h i p o f i s h O f fi c e r s o r g a n i s e d a p o l o m a t c h o r Britain’s friendship with Nepal, a country t h e P r i m e M i n i s t e r o f N e p a l , t o o k p a r t w i l d p i g h u n t i n g d a y , t h e t r i b e s w o u l d which has proved a staunch ally ever i n t h e fi n a l r e l i e f o f L u c k n o w . I t i s w o r t h t a k e a d a y o f f s h o o t i n g a t t h e ‘ A n g r e s i ’ , since and has become our ‘oldest ally’ in p o i n t i n g o u t t h a t n a t i v e r e g i m e n t s ( i n - i n s t e a d t a k e t h e i r p l a c e a s s p e c t a t o r s , s t i l l Asia. Never has the trust that was then c l u d i n g G u r k h a s ) w o u l d h a v e b e t w e e n 5 c a r r y i n g t h e i r p e r s o n a l w e a p o n . S u b d u - placed in the Gurkha soldier ever been a n d 1 0 B r i t i s h o f fi c e r s i n c o m m a n d p o - i n g t h e t r i b e s w a s a l e n g t h y p r o c e s s , t h e in doubt. Alongside his British comrade s i t i o n s , l e a v i n g c o n t r o l u n d e r c o m m a n d n o r m a l f o r m w a s t o s h o w t h e fl a g , t h e in arms he has fought in many parts of o f n a t i v e o f fi c e r s w h o h a d p r o v e n t h e m - B r i g a d e w o u l d d e p l o y , o n e b a t t a l i o n f o r - the world and has proved himself to be of s e l v e s i n t h e r e g i m e n t a n d r i s e n t h r o u g h w a r d , o n e b a t t a l i o n t o t h e r e a r a n d t h e the closest of friends and bravest of allies t h e r a n k s . T h i s b o n d o f t r u s t w a s u n d e r g u n s a n d c a v a l r y c e n t r e . T h e t h i r d b a t - that Britain has known. s e v e r e s t r a i n d u r i n g t h e I n d i a n M u t i n y , t a l i o n w o u l d d o m i n a t e t h e h e i g h t s , t a k - To digress for a moment, Nepal is found k n o w n a s t h e F i r s t W a r o f I n d e p e n d e n c e i n g c o m m a n d i n g p o s i t i o n s t o e n s u r e t h e squeezed between India and China, with 14 of the world’s highest mountains: “...their daily lifestyle moulded a natural warrior, able to move ‘Himalayas (Abode of Snow)’. The land is quietly, carry heavy loads up mountains and a canny hunter.” harsh with over 75% hills and mountains and it is unforgiving, the climate ranges from sub tropical to arctic, with up to 3000 mm of rain annu- ally. Essentially made up Gurkhas and the British of a highland people, their daily lifestyle moulded a natural warrior, able to move quietly, carry heavy Comrades in Arms loads up mountains and a canny hunter ‒ the desired attributes of an infantry- man. Nepal is also the home to Buddhism and Hinduism, which institutionalised the social hierarchy from which the farmer/warrior emerged. A philosophical attitude to life, death and karma, the Nepali is able to accept the highs and lows of life in a b y p r e s e n t I n d i a , b u t n o G u r k h a j o i n e d s m o o t h p r o g r e s s o f t h e b r i g a d e t h r o u g h way that the West finds difficult to un- t h e m u t i n y a n d B r i t a i n ’ s p r e s e n c e i n t h e p a s s e s . T h e a r t w a s n e v e r i n t a k i n g derstand. I n d i a r e m a i n e d f o r a n o t h e r 1 0 0 y e a r s . t h e h e i g h t s b u t t h e s p e e d y w i t h d r a w a l Whilst Europe enjoyed 40 years of W h i l s t t h e B r i t i s h R a j c o n t i n u e d t o g o v - d o w n t h e h i l l w i t h o u t g e t t i n g k i l l e d b y t h e peace, the British expanded its presence e r n a l t e r n a t i v e l y f r o m C a l c u t t a ( W i n t e r ) t r i b e s w h o w e r e a l w a y s w a i t i n g f o r t h i s in India and under the British flag, the a n d S i m l a ( S u m m e r ) , i m p r o v i n g t r a d e m o m e n t t o c a p t u r e a r i fl e ! W h i l s t t h e s e Gurkha soldiers began to serve the Brit- a n d g o v e r n a n c e , i t w a s t h e n o r t h w e s t t r i b a l g a m e s w e r e t a k i n g p l a c e , y o u n g ish Crown. The two senior regiments dis- b o r d e r s t h a t c o n s t a n t l y n e e d e d t a m i n g . o f fi c e r s w e r e o u t n e g o t i a t i n g w i t h t r i b a l tinguished themselves in the hard fought G u r k h a R e g i m e n t a l C e n t r e s w e r e f o r m e d e l d e r s t o k e e p t h e p e a c e a n d t o h e l p i m - battles of the 1st Sikh War in 1846. Dur- i n c i t i e s n o w i n P a k i s t a n , t o p r o t e c t I n - p r o v e l i f e f o r t h e h a r d y t r i b e s . O n e c a n ing the Indian Mutiny of 1857-1858, d i a f r o m b o t h t r i b a l i n fl u e n c e s a n d R u s - s e e t h a t t i m e s h a v e n o t c h a n g e d a n d the 2nd Goorkhas showed striking proof s i a w h o w e r e l o o k i n g t o o b t a i n a w a r m m u c h o f w h a t i s c u r r e n t l y t a k i n g p l a c e i n of their loyalty at Delhi where, together s e a p o r t . T h i s e r a w a s d o m i n a t e d b y t h e A f g h a n i s t a n w o u l d b e c l e a r l y r e c o g n i z e d with the 60th Rifles (now part of the Light s o c a l l e d ‘ G r e a t G a m e ’ w h i c h l a s t e d u n t i l b y a V i c t o r i a n A r m y O f fi c e r . Regiment), they held Hindu Rao’s house, 1 9 1 2 , w h e r e b o t h L o n d o n a n d t h e R a j S o , w h a t m a k e s a G u r k h a S o l d i e r h a v e the key to the British position which was p l a y e d a c a t a n d m o u s e g a m e t o p r e v e n t t h e r e p u t a t i o n h e h o l d s a s a w a r r i o r ? A under continuous fire from the mutineers R u s s i a n e x p a n s i o n s o u t h w h i l s t s u b d u - G u r k h a i s t h e t e r m u s e d t o d e s c r i b e a ►►►

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 35 Special Reading: British Gurkhas

Nepali citizen who enrolled into the Brit- in Gallipoli. There I was so struck by their Indian Army, each regiment consisting ish Army and on completion of training bearing in one of the most desperate of a number of battalions. As a result of has achieved a military ethos combining battles in history that I resolved, should negotiations between the Nepalese, British the natural, cultural attributes of a Nepali the opportunity come, to try to serve and Indian Governments, four of these reg- and the military education and training with them. Four years later it came, and iments, each of two battalions were trans- of the British Army. This will have been I spent many of the happiest, and from a ferred to the British Army, the remainder hard earned, to be recruited would have military point of view the most valuable, staying with the new Indian Army. Thus on required family sacrifices, determination, years of my life in the Regiment”. 1st January 1948, four Gurkha regiments motivation and a basic education. In a There was little respite after the First became, for the first time, an integral part country where becoming an adult means World War, with fighting in the Third Af- of the British Army, forming the Brigade of you have already beaten the odds, to ghan War in 1919 followed by numerous Gurkhas. These regiments were: 2nd King achieve service in the Indian Raj or Brit- campaigns on the North-West Frontier, Edward VII’s Own Gurkha Rifles (The Sir- ish Army produced a life of undreamed particularly in Waziristan. moor Rifles), 6th Gurkha Rifles (later Queen of manhood. But it is the combination of Elizabeth’s Own), 7th Gurkha Rifles (later leadership and command from British » THE SECOND WORLD WAR Duke of Edinburgh’s Own), 10th Gurkha Officers and the natural warrior of the In the Second World War there were Rifles (later Princess Mary’s Own) chosen Gurkha that has proven to be a winning no fewer than forty Gurkha battalions because of their location in India close to combination. This takes time and com- in British service, as well as parachute, the Burma border allowing an easier move mitment but above all trust. garrison and training units. In all, this to- to Malaysia. From 1857 the Gurkha Regiments saw talled some 112,000 men. Side by side These four regiments happen to rep- much active service in Burma, Afghani- with British and Commonwealth troops resent East (7 & 10) and West (2 & 6) stan, the North-East and North-West Gurkhas fought in Syria, the Western Nepal. In a country like Nepal where Frontiers of India, Malta, Cyprus, Malaya, Desert, Italy and Greece, from North Ma- communications are difficult, the divi- China (the Boxer Rebellion of 1900) and laya to Singapore and from the Siamese sion was similar to the difference be- Tibet (Younghusband’s Expedition of border back through Burma to Imphal tween a Scottish and Welsh regiment. I 1903). and then forward again to Rangoon. In served predominantly in an Eastern Gur- the two World Wars the Gurkha Brigade kha battalion (7th Gurkhas) and they had » THE FIRST WORLD WAR suffered 43,000 casualties. a fearsome reputation. Quick to argue At the outbreak of the First World and temper, it was important to handle War the whole of the Nepalese Army » THE PARTITION OF INDIA AND them carefully. During the great Hindu was placed at the disposal of the British TRANSFER TO THE BRITISH ARMY festival of Dashera, the fighting knives of Crown. Over 16,000 Nepalese troops After the Second World War, conflicts the Gurkha (The Kukri) were locked away were subsequently deployed on opera- in Palestine, the Dutch East Indies, French for the duration of the festival as disputes tions on the North West frontier and as Indo China, Borneo and the troubled par- over girls and money would often lead to garrison battalions in India to replace tition of India claimed the attention and severe repercussions. Western Gurkha troops of the British Indian Army who often the lives of officers and men of the Regiments never seem to have that prob- had gone to fight overseas. Gurkha Brigade. This was to be a very lem. Although it is currently the view Some one hundred thousand Gurkhas sad time for the Regiments and Regi- there is little difference, my experience enlisted in regiments of the Gurkha Bri- mental Officers. Having fought in the war is of a considerable cultural difference, gade. They fought and died in France and together they witnessed the wholesale which emanates in all tiers of life, reli- Flanders, Mesopotamia, Persia, Egypt, destruction of peace, watched thousands gious, family and characteristics. Gallipoli, Palestine and Salonika. A bat- die because of partition creating Moslem talion of the 8th Gurkhas greatly distin- Pakistan (East and West) and Hindu In- » THE MALAYAN EMERGENCY guished itself at Loos, fighting to the dia, the time for decision was at hand. For twelve years (1948 to 1960) com- last, and in the words of the Indian Corps It was not unusual for Gurkha troops to munist terrorists initiated an insurgency Commander, “found its Valhalla”. The 6th assist a Hindu village suffering a massa- in Malaysia. During the British counter- Gurkhas gained immortal fame at Gal- cre by Moslems on one day and go to a insurgency operations, it was the Gurkha lipoli during the capture of the feature Moslem village and assist after a Hindu soldier who proved himself to be, as he later known as “Gurkha Bluff” from the massacre the next day. My father hav- has previously done in Burma, a superb Turks. At Sari Bair they were the only ing survived a Japanese prisoner of war jungle fighter. Whilst the majority of troops in the whole campaign to reach camp was constantly overwhelmed with the rest of the British Army was fighting and hold the crest line and look down on the emotion of Indians massacring each in such trouble spots as Korea, Cyprus, the Straits, which was the ultimate objec- other having lived in mutual harmony for Kenya and Aden and maintaining a pres- tive. To quote from Field Marshal Sir Wil- so long. ence in the UK, Germany and other gar- liam Slim: At the time of the partition of India risons in various parts of the world, the “I first met the 6th Gurkha Rifles in 1915 there were ten Gurkha regiments in the Gurkhas were providing the backbone, ►►►

36 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Special Reading: British Gurkhas

the expertise and the continuity for the nantly served in UK, Hong Kong and provided with a charitable pension whilst campaign in Malaya. Many British units Brunei. In 1981, 1/7 Gurkha Rifles took the remaining 25,000 service pensioners fought in the Malayan Emergency with part in the Falklands War. Their reputa- retain a pension from the British Army. distinction, but never for more than two tion proceeded them and the psychologi- Providing community projects allows an or three years before moving on to other cal effect of Gurkhas in theatre was suf- improvement in the economic life of ex theatres. Gurkha battalions on the other ficient to disrupt Argentinean harmony, Gurkha soldiers, their spouses and their hand served on year after year, providing even before a shot was fired. This may communities. the decisive ingredient for victory in this sound arrogant but if you read the Ar- I have written about a lifestyle that is vicious war of stealth and attrition. gentinean reports, morale was affected now swallowed up into history. But the by reports of what Gurkhas do to their Gurkha remains the epitome of a natural » BORNEO ‒ THE BRUNEI REVOLT AND captives, all fiction but to the conscripts warrior best placed in the light infantry ‘CONFRONTATION’ WITH INDONESIA of the Argentinean forces, very real. role. I can speak for three generations, Gurkha troops were the first to be Gurkha troops have now taken part it was never a job, it has been a way of used again in an operational role on the in operations in Bosnia, Iraq and Af- life that few are privileged to experience. outbreak of the Brunei Revolt in Decem- ghanistan. Afghanistan is in many ways But perhaps these words written by the ber 1962. The battalion was alerted at home from home, harsh, mountainous late Sir Ralph Turner in 1931, give a hint 11pm on 7th December and the first requiring natural infanteers to read the of the true feelings of both sides: company was air-landed in Brunei, nine lie of the land and conduct operations. “As I write these words, my thoughts hundred miles away, at 9 am the follow- Gurkhas, mainly inherit their Mongo- return to you who were my comrades, ing morning. There followed four years lian looks, similar to Uzbeks; Hindi and the stubborn and indomitable peasants of continuous operations against units of Nepali are similar to Urdu (one of the of Nepal. Once more I hear the laughter the Indonesian Regular Army in Sabah many languages on the frontier lands). with which you greeted every hardship. and Sarawak in which every unit of the The life of an Afghani villager reflects the Once more I see you in your bivouacs or Brigade of Gurkhas took part. As they poverty and hardship of life in the hills of about your camp fires, on forced march- did in the Malayan Emergency, Gurkha Nepal. Enduring long periods of isolation es or in the trenches, now shivering with units again provided the bulk and the on operations and carrying heavy loads wet and cold, now scorched by a pitiless continuity of the British Army’s contri- are second nature to a Gurkha. Although and burning sun. Uncomplaining you en- bution to this campaign. This entailed, of very different religions, Gurkhas have dure hunger and thirst and wounds; and for example, 1/7 Gurkhas (consisting of little animosity against people of other at the last your unwavering lines disap- HQ, Sp and four rifle companies) to tame religions, but they have a strong family pear into the smoke and wrath of battle. an area of primary jungle in Sarawak bond, an inherent and fundamental part Bravest of the brave, most generous of bounding onto the Kalimantan (Indone- of Asian culture. The two Gurkha Battal- the generous, never had a country more sia) border covering north west to south ions have been almost continuously on faithful friends than you.”  east 700 miles (1120 kms). The British operations in Afghanistan. “They are the Government did not sanction, officially, loveliest people in the world,” Command- Sirmoor Gate, Dehra Dun, India cross border operations but under the ing Officer 2 RGR said, “But when the codename of Op Claret, these did occur. switch is flicked, it gets very nasty.” On one occasion, a company of 10th Gur- In 1994, the four Rifle Regiments dis- khas crossed and raided a camp, leaving banded and were reformed into a large behind a copy of Playboy. Several weeks Regiment, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (RGR), later the Indonesians crossed and after which initially consisted of three battal- the incursion, left a perfect wood carving ions. His Royal Highness The Prince of of the Playboy centrefold ‒ proving that Wales is the Regiment’s Colonel in Chief. although war is a serious business there The Gurkha Corps Regiments (Engineers, are the light sides that demonstrate sol- Signals and Logistic) have reduced in size diers will be soldiers. It was in November to a Regimental Headquarters and squad- 1965 that Lance Corporal Rambahadur rons. There are currently some 3,300 Limbu of the 2nd Battalion, 10th PMO Gur- Gurkhas (effective strength) in the Brit- kha Rifles won the Victoria Cross rescu- ish Army. ing two wounded comrades under direct Since 1969, the Gurkha enemy fire. The Gurkha Brigade has won Welfare Trust, a charity, 26 Victoria Crosses ‒ 13 by Gurkhas and has worked to improve 13 by British Officers. the pensions and welfare of ex Gurkhas in the hills » CURRENT HISTORY of Nepal. Over 10,000 Post Malaysia, the Gurkhas predomi- welfare pensioners are

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 37 Training SNOW, SWEAT AND BRUISES

Photos and Story by CDR Rick Stead, GBR Navy Joint Training Development Division Medical SME, JWC THE JWC UK ELEMENT ADVENTURE TRAINING A T THE NORWEGIAN SCHOOL OF WINTER W ARFARE, ELVERUM

unday 10 th February saw fore being taken to a classroom within and tasked with playing children’s an early start for the small the school complex for both introduc- games on skis. This was largely for us to group of British Officers and tory and mandatory lectures, before gain confidence in our talents (or lack SOther Ranks, led by Colo - we were to be allowed to venture out of them) and to assess us for the later nel Rob Peacock, the JWC British SNR, onto the training area. split into groups by ability. Here came heading for Elverum for a week of ad- Following this we were issued Norwe- the first bruises, and many spectacular venture training. The coach was quiet gian military kit for the week’s activities. falls ensued, chasing each other round as we made our way South through This was supplied by the school and while attempting to play hockey and Christiansand and then onward to thus saw a group of Brits temporarily rugby. Upon return and another early Oslo, before turning North for Elverum, taking on a vague resemblance to Nor- meal, we were given further survival the location of the Norwegian School wegian military personnel. The kit issue and first aid lectures before settling of Winter Warfare. Perhaps this may brought some smiles as we were given down in our accommodation for the have been just tiredness from the early net underwear, which one of our circle night. start, or was it perhaps a quiet appre - commented would more commonly Tuesday was a hension of what was to come? be seen in the night clubs of the whole day of ski On arrival, we were met by our UK! However, as the training spent group of four instructors and provid - week went on we on the unit train- ed with our accommodation, a very found out how first- ing area. After smart, newly built block with individual, rate this kit actually being split into en-suite, rooms; small but very comfort- was. It is actually pos- groups of five able and, it has to be said, exception- sible to ski in only net by ability, we ally warm. In order to make the best of underwear and gortex were taken the limited available daylight, an early - no matter what others by one in - start was called for each day. Meals might think of you! After s t r u c t o r were taken in an all-ranks mess and so an early lunch, we were and given we walked slowly down the icy road on driven out to a local ski i n d i v i d u a l the Monday morning to breakfast be - area, divided into teams training. ►►►

38 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Training

“...Following this we were issued Norwegian military kit for the week’s activities. This was supplied by the school and thus saw a group of Brits temporarily taking on a vague resemblance to Norwegian military personnel.”

Though largely done on pre- The afternoon saw us struggle pared tracks this allowed us to with fire lighting and the crea- develop our abilities through tion of survival shelters. To see gaining an understanding our one OF4 (unnamed) becom- areas of weakness and then ing so excited by his creation subsequent employment of of smoke and flames was a the correct techniques. After revelation! spending the whole day on Thursday was a day devot- the training area and prob- ed entirely to skiing. We were ably covering only a limited taken to a local ski area and distance, we all returned to let loose with the natives. Stun- the camp very tired. Follow- ning scenery and beautiful ing our meal, we were once sunshine pervaded. In this area again back into the classroom there was the opportunity to ski and given an introduction to ski on both prepared tracks and waxing and each had the op- unbroken ground. Many of us portunity to prepare our skis for covered large distances (for the following day’s activities. how much more difficult and energy us at least!) and returned from Wednesday dawned and we were sapping it was to ski or walk on snow the day completely exhausted. The taken further out into the training area shoes when there were no tracks pre- evening allowed for final preparation for survival and navigation training. pared. During the break for lunch we of skis for the Friday race and a small Despite many of us being quite used were also privileged to be visited by social event with our instructor team. to navigation in the greener climes of the Norwegian Chief of Defence Gen- Friday saw the culmination of our Southern Norway and the UK we found eral Sverre Diesen and a number of training with a 10k ski race. Nerves navigation in the snow extremely diffi- the Defence Attaché’s to Norway as were evident with final frenzied wax- cult. The lack of features and disguises part of their planned visit to the school. ing of skis and checking of kit before presented by the snow cover made it Though informal, it offered an oppor- the countdown to the start and the all-but impossible for us inexperienced tunity to interface with individuals with horn sounded. Lieutenant Colonel Stu Brits. In addition, we began to realise whom we would not normally meet. “Watch my tracer” Morgan shot off ►►►

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 39 Training

into the distance leaving the rest trail- snow, sweat and bruises of a week in ing in his wake. Four of the group made February in Elverum. it round the undulating course in under Training events of this nature are nev- the hour though all, no matter what er easy to organise and our thanks must their time, came in with a great sense therefore also be extended to Lieuten- of achievement. ant Commander Gerry Edmonds and We then had the joy of returning our SSgt Brian Flynn, both of JWC, for ar- kit; though we were allowed to keep ranging the week so seamlessly.  the string underwear and some other small sundry items for later use. The return coach journey was even qui- eter than on the previous Sunday with many sleeping throughout the 10 hour journey. Adventure training is meant to be both arduous and fun. This week had fulﬁlled both of those criteria with ease. The C.O. of the Winter Warfare School, Lieutenant Colonel Harald Østbye and his staff had pitched the training at exactly the right level providing us with an experience that, whilst physi- cally demanding, was also fun. All of us came away as better skiers with “...During the break for lunch we the bumps and bruises to prove it. The were also privileged to be visited by bruises may fade but the memories will The Norwegian Chief of Defence undoubtedly linger. It is hoped that we General Sverre Diesen, and a number may repeat this training next year to al- of the Defence Attaché’s to Norway.” low a larger group to experience the

40 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Visits Visit by German General Staff College

By Major (GS) Michael Schaetzlein, DEU A SME Ops & Plans, JTDD, JWC

etween 8-11 April 2008, a included staff officers from Canada, visit continued with a fjord tour by boat delegation of German Gen- Great Britain and Lithuania. to Lysefjord. During the afternoon, the eral Staff College, on a whirl- Following the Joint Warfare Centre students were introduced to Joint War- wind trip through European Command Briefing, subsequent brief- fare Centre’s exercise preparation and NATOB headquarters and agencies, ings under the headline of current execution in Ulsnes Training Facility. The visited the Joint Warfare Centre in Sta- aspects of NATO’s operational con- execution of Phase III of Exercise Stead- vanger for the second time. cept introduced the delegation to the fast Joist 08 gave the students a unique The programme started with the wel- mission and current structure of the opportunity to get a deep insight into come ice-breaker on the first evening. JWC. Therefore, all relevant topics like the extent and complexity of Joint The next morning, JWC Director of NATO’s CD&E Process, Doctrine De- Warfare Centre’s exercises at the op- Staff, Colonel Trond Hellebust officially velopment, Lessons Learned Process, erational level. EXCON role, structure welcomed Colonel Jörg Dronia and EBAO Concept and last but not least, and manning, as well as the respective the 17 students of the national Ger- JLSG Concept were covered by JWC’s CIS and CAX support were intensively man General Staff Course, which also briefers from Joint Training Develop- explained to the students in order to ment Division, Joint Exercise Division underline JWC’s role as a world class and Capability Development Division. training centre of NATO. The afternoon started with an histori- For the last day, a visit to the Norwe- cal overview of Stavanger’s role during gian National Joint Headquarters was the Second World War starting with the scheduled for the delegation, where invasion of Norway in 1940 and end- they received a briefing by Major Gen- ing with the capitulation of the fortress eral Roar Sundseth, Chief of Staff NJHQ, Stavanger in 1945. This event was en- on the mission and current Norwegian riched by the following visit and a guid- Joint Operations. A walk through the ed tour through the Flystorisk Museum bunker accompanied by detailed in Sola. A guided cultural tour through briefings of the respective cell chiefs Stavanger downtown followed by a enlarged the understanding of the mis- reception dinner rounded up the first sion and tasks of the headquarters and official visiting day. rounded up the visit by the German On 10 April, the cultural part of the General Staff College to Norway. 

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 41 Sports: JALLC vs JC Lisbon The JALLC GOlf

Challenge Trophy By Andrew Eden, JALLC

erfect conditions greeted the JALLC, had challenged Vice Admiral summer! Marvin Thorsden secured the teams from the Joint Analysis James Winnefeld, COMJCL, to a com- longest drive with an unforgettable and Lessons Learned Centre petition combining an 18-hole stabl- 310-metre launch, handily finding both Pand their rivals for the day, eford competition with a skills contest, a Next Tee sign and a sprinkler-head Joint Command Lisbon, at Aroeira incorporating putting and chipping. on the way. At the final count, JALLC Golf Club on the holiday of May 1st, for Playing through the heat of the day, the squeezed ahead of the stableford the first of an annual JALLC Golf Chal- teams slugged it out, with some memo- competition with Andrew Eden secur- lenge Trophy. Brigadier General Jør- rable shots including Jan Wilken’s pitch ing Highest Score at 32, courtesy of a gen Hansen-Nord, Director out of a lake onto the handicap error. Nevertheless, JC Lis- green for par. Helmut bon won the day overall with a mar- Schelchshorn’s legen- gin slimmer than an anorexic whippet: CDR Ommedal powers his ball in dary accuracy won 220 points to 218. After a tightly fought the swimming pool on the 5th as him the first closest competition played over a very chal- Admiral Winnefeld, Major Johansen and General Hansen-Nord stand in to the pin competi- lenging course under a blazing sun, awe of his wicked hook. tion on a ballsy par the flag officers retired for post-game three surrounded by massages and relaxation therapy while water, with Bruce the teams headed back to work for a Brunelle confirming few hours before the prize-giving at the JALLC’s accuracy Palm Tree Inn in the evening. supremacy on the JC Lisbon graciously accepted vic- other closest-to-the- tory and the impressive Golf Challenge pin hole, undaunt- Cup, and kindly accepted a repeat ed by more water challenge on the same May holiday than a Stavanger next year. pictures from JWC National Days

30 April: The Netherlands National Day 25 March: Greek Independence Day 3 May: Polish Constitution Day 9 May: Europe Day 17 May: Norwegian National Day 2 June: Italian National Day 5 June: Danish National Day 6 June: Swedish National Day Community News

The newest Central Cellar staff member now has a name: Gulbjørn!

The judges in the “Name the Bear” contest, sponsored by the Central Cel- lar, had a very challenging task with 47 submissions from children across the JWC Community in our naming contest. Between “Sweetie Bear”, “Harry Beau”, “Eddy the Teddy” and more great suggestions, our staff member has been named “Gulbjørn”, which means “yellow bear” in Norwegian. The Shop Supervisor, Ms. Daniela Sche- Mr. Ramsay, Chief Community Sup- uner, is seen congratulating the win- port Branch, presents Lt. Col. Steve ner, Elizabeth Ramsay, age 9, with the Phillips, JTDD, with two tickets to the winning prize: a large assortment of Sandnes Classic Rock Festival show Haribo treats! of May 23, featuring headline act Rod Stewart. Lt. Col. Phillips was the winner of the May monthly draw prize from the Central Cellar!

Read about Community Support Branch’s “Teenager Bowling Evening” and “Family Boat Cruise” in the September issue of The Three Swords!

Saturday, May 10, 2008 saw JWC host its ﬁrst Community Yard Sale. With over 30 tables during a beautiful sunny day, we think that it can be said that all vendors and shoppers had a very pleasant day. The JWC Diving Club grilled brat and currywurst, while the JWC Rod and Gun Club made fresh ﬁsh burgers, each to immense enjoy- ment of attendees. We were also fortunate to have one of our Community members, Veronique Mignot-Bari, on hand to sign copies of her recently published book entitled, “Stavanger and its Surroundings”. Thanks to all who made this event a success! (Text by G. Ramsay, CCSB)

YARD SALE

44 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 Community News

NEW ASSESTS FOR SUPPLY!

On 22 May, Supply Branch received a brand new forklift via Transportation Branch. The picture on the right shows SGT Christian Buer (new Stock Management Assistant as of May), Ms Gerd Inger Granheim (new Stock Management Assistant as of February), Mr Aksel Tangerås (Transportation Branch) with the license plate and Ms Birgitta Giﬂe (new Property Accounting Assistant). The forklift will provide safer loading and more effective handling of heavy equipment at Soma Camp whilst the new personnel will reinforce Supply Branch’s ability to support customers at Jåttå and Ulsnes.

(Text by Major Jørgen Ellingsen, Chief Supply Branch)

CivilianThe Staff Association By Lars Stokka, CDD, JWC at JWC Chairperson, CSA

All the NATO Civilian employees at JWC are, by default, members of the local Civilian Staff Association (CSA), which in turn is a member of a larger CSA community for all of NATO. The JWC CSA also includes members from JFTC in By- dgoszcz, Poland and NEC CCIS at Kolsås, Norway, as these organisations do not have enough civilian employees to justify the establishment of separate CSAs. The Staff Association can in simple terms be thought of as an interest organisation for the NATO Civilian employees at JWC, providing a channel through which their opinions can be expressed to the Human Resource Manager and Com- mand Group of JWC. It is ofﬁcially charged with: a. Protecting the professional interests of the staff b. Making proposals relating to the collective interests or conditions of employment of the staff c. Giving advice on matters submitted to it by the competent administrative authorities d. Promoting social, cultural and athletic activities The JWC CSA is represented in a number of committees at JWC, like the Health, Environment and Safety Committee and the Community Council. Another important function of the Staff Association is to act as an independent observer on all NATO Civilian recruitment at JWC. Our mandate is to ensure that the recruitment process has been conducted fairly and that no single candidate has received any preferential treatment. It is not all about business in the Staff Association. Twice a year, we arrange lunches for all of our JWC members, with one of them normally taking place somewhere in the Stavanger region. In the past hikes and other short trips have been arranged for the beneﬁt of the staff. (Photo: The current leadership of the JWC CSA, from left: Vice Chairperson Mr. Uwe Sprenger (SMC4), Chairperson Mr. Lars Stokka (CDD) and Treasurer Ms. Ragnhild Husby (CDD). Mr. Mario Oliveira, Secretary, was not present at the photo shoot.)

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 45 JWC Newcomers

By Inci Kucukaksoy, JWC PAO; and Gordon Ramsay, Chief Community Support Branch

The more you know about Rogaland, the happier you shall be living here!

iving and working in a foreign creating a true melting pot. There are country is an exciting chal- immeasurable opportunities for peo- lenge, because every country ple to meet folks from other parts of is different. They each have the world and experience parts of their theirL own laws and customs. Prepara- culture. There are many expatriates tion and information gathering are the living in Oslo, Stavanger and Bergen. key ingredients in planning for a suc- According to United Nations Human cessful move to a new country. Expa- Development Index 2005, “Norway triate networks offer good sources of is the best place to live in the world”, information as many questions will run especially if you like the outdoors life. through your mind before you proceed One other interesting piece of news is on an international assignment. You try that 10 percent of the population of to learn a bit about the country, and Stavanger is made up of expatriates. search for advice, tips and information. The International Network of Norway It is only natural that such a change (INN) - Stavanger Region is a division can be highly stressful, but at the same of the Stavanger Chamber of Com- time it can be one of the most reward- merce and Industry. Its role is to make ing experiences of your life! moving to the area as smooth as pos- In large part due to the oil and gas sible for its members and their accom- Inger Tone Ødegård, Director INN industry, Norway enjoys a unique blend panying dependents. In their web site of people from numerous countries, it says, “moving to Rogaland should be

46 The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 JWC Newcomers

tions, a monthly newsletter in English, in Sandnes for horseback riding. You and an arena for networking and so- can learn how to make a very tradi- cial events.” The Stavanger Chamber tional Norwegian cake, Kransekake. of Commerce and Industry has 3,100 Or you can take a hike to Dalsnuten, members from 1,450 businesses in the and then meet again for an evening Stavanger Region. “We have meet- social at The Irishman pub. The possibili- ings where we discuss issues that are ties are endless and the connections key to make Stavanger and Rogaland you may make with other expatriates vibrant locations to work and live. We in the area may be priceless. have many projects to meet the re- Norway absolutely has wonderful gion’s needs. The Service Centre is just outdoor recreation opportunities. The one of them,” she adds. outdoor experience in Stavanger and The Orientation program for the Rogaland is totally unique with some “newcomers” is a full-day class that of the stunning attractions here such as simple, safe and an adventure.” The provides information about settling in Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Flor og Fjaere Chambers of Commerce in Oslo, Ber- the region: geography, history, daily (Flower Garden Island near Stavanger), gen and Kristiansand have similar pro- life, safety, nature, trafﬁc and more. Kjerag and Jaeren (the historic village). grams in their regions. Mrs. Ødegård points out that by learn- Inger Tone Ødegård encourages expa- The Director of INN - Stavanger is In- ing as much as possible about your triates to get outdoors and have fun. ger Tone Ødegård, who moved from move and the issues that will impact “I think the most important thing in Oslo to Stavanger in 1985. “My hus- accompanying families up front, as- Norway is to enjoy the nature,” she band and I didn’t plan to stay for long, sociated challenges of moving can be says, “You have to forget about the cli- but we liked Stavanger a lot,” she said. decreased. “We built up the Service mate sometimes and take the oppor- Her two children were born and raised Centre together with the Stavanger tunity to spend as much time outdoors here. “They speak Norwegian com- Chamber of Commerce and Industry as possible.” pletely in the local dialect,” she says to make sure that its members really Asked about some tips about adapt- with a smile. enjoy living in Stavanger,” she said. ing to the lifestyle in Stavanger, she She explains that the Stavanger The Joint Warfare Centre has been highlights the importance of family. Chamber of Commerce and Industry a member of the International Network “Norway is a family-oriented country recently set up a Service Centre for Norway – Stavanger since 2007. What and we want to preserve that. It is the the expatriates, which aims to “offer this means is that all JWC personnel parents that ensure kids participate Orientation program for newcomers, and their dependents can participate in a lot of activities, sports, music and workshops for spouses applying for fully in all activities of the network, in- culture and they volunteer as coach- work, coffee morning seminars, indi- cluding extraordinary trips and social es, leaders and facilitators in these. I vidual counseling, a helpline for ques- events. You can visit the Tryggyi Farm recommend all the expatriates to sign their kids up for different kinds of activities, because that’s the best way to get integrated. The more you know about Rogaland, the happier you shall be living here.” If you would like to learn more information about INN activities, please check the Internet at www.stavanger- chamber.no. Photo by Tove E. Berg (Stavanger 2008) Photo by Tove

The Three Swords Magazine 13/2008 47