KFOR CHRONICLE The KFOR magazine for KFOR soldiers June 2013

KKFORFOR JJuneune 11999999

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 CONTENT PICTURE: Archive KFOR negotiate the Kumanova Agreement - June 1999

COM KFOR 03 Opening Address BLOOD DONATION 04 Soldiers helping

SOCCER MATCH 06 KP v MNBG-W MNBG-W 07 Joint Training Exercises

INTERVIEW 09 Captian Eugenio VARLESE CULTURE REPORT 10 Water in Kosovo

HISTORY REPORT 12 KFOR June 1999 HISTORY REPORT 14 Batcave Painting

CSM MEETING 15 At Mount Goles Shooting Range MNBG-E 18 Change of Command & Transfer of Authority

SUDOKU 20 An activity for the brain PICTURE OF THE MONTH 21 Your chance to be a part of it!

WORLD PRESS 22 Photograph Exhibition PROFILES 23 Bruno Calabria Amar Atmane

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 COM KFOR

“From Facing the de-confl iction. Barricades to Th e second pillar is KFOR’s Own Operations which are thoroughly planned, trained regularly and available Promoting Progress” to encounter a variety of threat situations which could occur all over KOSOVO. KFOR continues to run normal hen I arrived in KFOR in September of 2012 framework operations maintaining a low profi le and Wmy predecessor described the situation as of setting a force posture to be able to react if SASE and his tour as “Facing the Barricades”. If I had to describe FOM are endangered from a KFOR perspective. the situation now, I would describe it as “Promoting Progress”. Th e third pillar is KFOR Support to EULEX Operations. We have established Before I go into some details close cooperation and serious about the current situation I eff orts have been taken to ensure would like to look back just EULEX operations become more for a second and provide eff ective. EULEX continues to assist you my perception of the in establishing rule of law and our strategic framework and the relationship with EULEX has never related tactical developments. been better however, EULEX is Since 1999 KFOR conducted operating under several limitations. a successful and at times challenging mission which Just under construction is the was basically three phases. Th e fourth pillar, KFOR InfoOps and fi rst phase I would call “Intervention and Stabilization”. PsyOps Campaingn. Th e more the political process runs A civilian administration was established, there was progressively the more important it is for the promotion moderate economic and infrastructural advancement of a sound public opinion. Key leader engagement visits and starting with the self-declared Declaration of are conduct on various levels as well as municipality Independence a new phase begun, the “Transition visits to be as convincing and transparent as possible. and Accommodation of Change”. From July 2011 Such exchanges of information as well as the signals of KFOR was facing violent action triggering a period of trust are a clear and well understood massage. It shows roadblocks in the NORTH that lasted almost one year. KFORs impartiality and aff ects KFOR’s mission and the In October 2012, the EU mediated High–level dialogue overall process in a positive manner. in order to ‘normalize relations’ constituted a strategic shift and lead us to a new phase, which I would describe Th e four pillars are structured in order to support from a tactical view as “Normalization and (Hopefully) the KFOR Security Outreach North initiatives which Completion”. Promoting progress can now more fully indicate how we are Promoting Progress. Some show the dynamicity and the progress of change. Derived examples are: from the situation, it was evident at the end of 2012 1) Unfi xing of troops at property with designated that the KFOR strategy needed some change. As things special status and border crossing points. developed, the need for a more comprehensive strategy 2) Th e Administrative Boarder Line Security Project became mindful in order to contribute to progress. 3) Rearrangements and reduction of forces To address the right approach, KFOR developed the 4) Th e fi rst municipality visit of a COM KFOR ever to “KFOR Security Outreach North” concept. Based on MITROVICA North KFORs mandate and mission to contribute to a Safe and Secure Environment (SASE) and Freedom of Movement KFOR has come a long way since I fi rst got here in (FOM), a new concept was developed which consists of September of 2012 and it still has a long way to go. But as four pillars. we continue to work on our four pillars and allow them to support our KFOR Security Outreach North initiatives, I Th e fi rst pillar is the KFOR Security Dialogue, which feel confi dent that we will be moving “Forward Together”. is already established with the dialog and cooperation of the four mayors of the northern municipalities. Th is dialogue is used to develop a valuable communication MajorMajor GGeneralene Volker Halbauer forum concerning SASE and FOM for prevention and COM KFOR

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 3 BLOOD DONATION

SOLDIERS DONATE BLOOD IN KOSOVO On 13 and 14 June 2013, Offi cers and NCOs of the Hellenic Armed Forces in Kosovo donated blood to the hospitals of Prishtinë/Priština and Mitrovicë/Mitrovica (both southern and northern sectors).

he initiative was taken to Th rough personal connections, regardless of nationality. We are Tcoincide with the World Blood together with the help of the Hellenic here in Kosovo to help its people Donor Day on 14 June and the Embassy, we were able to meet with in all respects, and if we can help Blood Donation Week from 13-20 representatives of both hospitals, by donating blood then we shall June 2013. Th is was organised by who were elated with the project and do this”. Manager of the Prishtinë/ the Blood Transfusion Centre in managed to organise the event. Th e Priština Blood Transfusion Centre, Prishtinë/Priština Hospital, and Greek Commander of the KFOR Dr Eusen Satriu said, “We are the whole event was covered by the HQ Guard, Major Gerasimos Lytras touched, honoured and thankful for local press. stated, “Blood is for all people, the donation. I wish you could do PICTURES: CPT Konstantinos Rantis M.D (2) Greek and Moroccan Soldiers

4 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 BLOOD DONATION PICTURES: CPT Konstantinos Rantis M.D (2) Greek Soldiers involved in the donation

this in our mobile units, which will and South Hospitals of Mitrovicë/ initiative and stated that they hope be around the city this week, so that Mitrovica, the Hellenic LMTs from more members of KFOR will give the people in the streets notice what Novo Selo were welcomed by the support like this in the future. you’re doing for us, but since I don’t hospital staff and local habitants of want to cause any inconvenience to the city and nearby villages. Kosovar- Special credit should be given the soldiers, we will of course accept Serbian TV network “MOST” to Moroccan LT Yassine Benali you here at the hospital”. covered the event live in the North (Public Aff airs Offi cer of JRD-N) Sector and members of the Zveçan/ who escorted the Hellenic LMTs At the same time, in both North Zvečan municipality praised the in Mitrovicë/Mitrovica and participated in the event by donating his blood too.

At the end of the day, almost 50 units of blood were donated, which represents about half the number of the Hellenic force in Kosovo. It should be mentioned that the Hellenic Armed Forces have a long history of voluntary blood donations and humanitarian aid actions for all people in Kosovo, going back to the beginning of KFOR. Th is tradition was continued on 13 and 14 June. In conclusion, as a representative of the Greek Liaison Offi ce in Kosovo mentioned, “Th is is a great opportunity to show that the Greeks are here to help. We do not take sides, we are here for both Kosovar- and Kosovar-Serbians and this is the message we want to send with this initiative”. CPT Konstantinos Rantis M.D

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 5 SOCCER MATCH PICTURE: MNBG-E (2) The Final Whistle!! SOCCER MATCH / KP VS. MNBG-W On Th ursday, 13 June 2013, in Pejë/Pec a special soccer match was held. Far from the lights of the Confederation Cup in Brazil, a soccer fi eld in Pejë/Pec hosted the challenge between a (KP) team and an Italian team from Multinational Battle Group West (MNBG-W).

he KP team was composed of with friendly greetings between future, challenge a joint team Tpolicemen serving in the Pejë/ the players and the exchange of the composed of the best players of all Pec area, while the MNBG-W was pennants between the two team national contingents in MNBG-W. composed of Italian soldiers of captains. Aft er the third defeat Hopefully this will mean ‘Forward Papa Company. Th is allowed for a of national contingent teams of Together’ for a win! friendly sporting rivalry amongst MNBG-W, the KP team will, in CPT Pietro D’Angelo people who pass each other each day during their work.

Th e KP team had many talented players, especially a skillful midfi elder. Th e Italian team, loyal to Italian soccer traditions, worked a defense scheme; waiting for the right moment to launch counterattacks and taking advantage of the KP team, who were overstretched in the Italian middle of the fi eld.

Despite the best laid plans, the match ended with the victory to the KP team aft er a competitive game. Th e end of the match was marked MNBG-W attempt to score

6 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 MNBG-W JOINT TRAINING MNBG-W JOINT TRAINING In May and June 2013, Multinational Battle Group West (MNBG-W) units conducted a number of joint training exercises based on Crowd and Riot Control (CRC) in Camp Vrelo and HELO MEDEVAC in Camp Villaggio Italia (CVI). PICTURE: MNBG-E (2) PAPA Company in CRC Training

he main goal of the CRC demonstrated its skills in repression pushed demonstrators away from Texercise was to assess the joint of the rioters, overcoming barricades the area with a series of charges. eff orts of the diff erent units in the and the fi nal off ensive to push them MNBG-W Manoeuvre Battalion, back from the route. Th en the main However, the morale of the in order to harmonise procedures forces from KFOR came on the rioters still remained high and they in providing a safe and secure scene. Th e Slovenian Kilo Company recovered behind a strong barricade, environment and guaranteeing freedom of movement in Kosovo. Th e exercise was organized by MNBG-W HQ S3 and consisted of two main dynamic demonstrations. Th e participants included a unit of KFOR J ENG (Ukrainian Contingent) with its special tank able to remove all types of road blocks.

Th e opposing force was comprised of one platoon from MNBG-W Austrian Alpha Company.

According to the scenario, the rioters tried to block a route. At fi rst the Italian Papa Company Clearing the Barricades

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 7 MNBG-W JOINT TRAINING

requiring Kilo Company to attempt were trained in HELO MEDEVAC several simulated rescues on the to force the barricade using tear gas. procedures. Th e aim of the training ground, along with briefi ngs on Using the cover of the barricades, was to harmonise procedures and to the procedures to be carried out to the rioters began throwing objects improve the skill of Papa Company transport a casualty from a HELO to at the KFOR forces. Reinforced by soldiers to request and to conduct a a medical facility. the KFOR PSYOPS vehicle (advising HELO Medevac. rioters of KFOR’s actions), KFOR Overall, both examples of cross troops used the J ENG vehicle to Th e US Task Force (TF) Aviation training exercises increased remove the barricades and force the from MNBG-E, with its UH-60 the capacity of KFOR troops to PICTURE: MNBG-E (3) MEDEVAC Training

rioters to retreat. Th e fi nal phase was Blackhawk helicopter, provided a coordinate and successfully conduct to force the rioters to end the unrest. briefi ng about the procedures to joint operations. follow during the several phases of a CPT Pietro D’Angelo In the HELO MEDEVAC exercise HELO MEDEVAC. (conducted in the last week of May at CVI), the Italian Papa Company During the exercise there were

Specialist Tank clears the way MEDEVAC Procedures

8 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW Captain Eugenio VARLESE Name: Eugenio VARLESE Rank: Captain (OF-2) Birth: 26th August 1980 Place of Birth: Cassino, Lazio Appointment: Company Commander PICTURES: MNBG-E (1)

important for my country and the professional oppor- tunities off ered by the Army, are the principal reasons that encouraged me to join the Army.

What is your favourite part of your job? I think that my favourite part of the job is to share with my colleagues and soldiers all the experiences during training, deployments in foreign countries and the sa- tisfaction to be able to overcome diffi culties.

What was the most interesting experience that your job has given you? Th e training and mentoring conducted for the Afghan National Army in the summer 2009; that experience gave me professional skills and helped me to grow up both as a soldier and as a man.

What are the tasks of your Papa Company here in What were your previous deployments? Kosovo? Th is is my 4th deployment abroad with the Italian PAPA Company is part of the Multinational Manoeuv- Army. Previously, I was deployed in the EU mission re Battalion of MNBG-W. Our main task is to assure “EUFOR ALTHEA” in Bosnia-Herzegovina in 2008 and the security of Deçan/Decane Monastery and, with our twice in NATO ISAF operation in Afghanistan in 2009 patrolling, guarantee freedom of movement and a safe and 2012. In Bosnia-Herzegovina my appointment was and secure environment in western Kosovo. Liaison Observation Team Deputy-Commander in Sa- rajevo. During my fi rst deployment in Afghanistan, I What do you think about your commitment in this provided training and mentoring to the Afghan Natio- mission? nal Army as a member of an Operational Mentor and I have the honour to command my company in KFOR. Liaison Team (OMLT) in western Afghanistan. In 2012 It is important for me to see the real feedback on the I was part of the NATO Training Mission in Kabul. ground aft er all the training done in Italy before our de- ployment. Th e command of PAPA Company is giving Regarding KFOR, what have been your impressions me real professional satisfaction. when you have been in contact with the local popu- lation? How do you spend your free time? My impression is that this is a young country that wants I usually spend my free time in the gym or running in- to look positively to the future. I feel the appreciation side the Base. I also like to read history books. . that people in this part of Kosovo have for KFOR; for what we did and what we are continuing to do for them. What does your family think about your deploy- ment in KFOR? Why did you join the Army? Th is is my fourth mission. My family is proud that I I joined the Army in 2001, attending the Italian Mili- am serving my country and they are also happy because tary Academy of Modena. Th e high values upon which they know that I am doing something that I believe is the Army is founded, the possibility to do something very important.

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 9 CULTURE REPORT

Water – A Vital Resource Eff ective management of water is an important issue around the world and Kosovo is no exception.

n recent years many problems agricultural sectors, along with a basin), Black Sea (Ibër/ and Iwith water supplies were caused greater population in some areas. Morava e Binqes/Binačka Morava by poor infrastructure such as Taking Prishtinë/Priština as an river basins) and the Aegean Sea pipes and pumping stations. example; back in the 1980’s the (Lepenci/ river basin). Th e New equipment and repairs have population was approximately annual average rainfall in Kosovo is reduced this problem, yet water 70,000 but is now believed to have approximately 600mm in lowlands supply in Kosovo can still be increased to close to 500,000. With and around 1400mm in mountain aff ected by dry weather during this increase in population comes a areas, while the western part of the the year. Th is can lead to water greater demand for water. So where country is assessed as being the shortages and the requirement to does Kosovo get its water and how richest in underground waters. ration and conserve water during is it managed? the summer months. In addition, Th e Water Department of the it is accepted that the need for Kosovo is divided in four water Ministry of Environment and Spatial water in Kosovo is greater now collecting basins, which discharge Planning is in charge of developing than ever before due to an increase water into three seas: Adriatic Sea policies for the management in output from the industrial and (Drini i Bardhë/Beli Drin river of water resources in Kosovo. PICTURES: Hajrullahu (2) Afrim Batllavë/Batlava Lake - the water level is low

10 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 WATER IN KOSOVO

Th ere is also a “Water Task Force” comprising of relevant Government Ministers (chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Trade and Industry Mimoza Kusari – Lila) with responsibility for improving the situation in the water sector. Th ere are regional water companies which are publicly owned and cover various municipalities. In order to manage the water resource in the country, fi ve main reservoirs are used: * Gazivode/Gazivodë located in the northwest close to Zubin Potok, * Batllavë/Batlava located in the north east near Podujevë/ , * Badovac/Badovc located close to Graçanicë/Gracanica, * Përlepnicë/Prilepnica located between Kamenicë/Kamenica and Gjilan/Gnjilane, and * Radoniq/Radonjić located in the west near Gjakovë/Ðakovica. In the north, Gazivode/Gazivodë reservoir is one of the biggest water reservoirs of its kind in and one of the most important assets for the Kosovo economy. It provides cooling water for the Kosovo Energy Corporation’s (KEK) power station Kosovo B in Obiliq/Obilić and was Hydrographic Map of Kosova in the past vital for the Trepça/Trepča mines. Furthermore, it supplies the restrict the use of water. Villages were levels remain normal in Radoniq/ area between Mitrovicë/Mitrovica cut off from water supplies for hours Radonjić. As can be seen from and Prishtinё/Priština with irrigation or days. In July 2007 the local water previous years, the water supply in and drinking water and constitutes company in Podujevë/Podujevo Kosovo is a vital resource that needs the emergency drinking water introduced ten hour shortcuts in the to be managed properly. What can reservoir for Prishtinё/Priština. town aft er the dramatic decrease in we in KFOR do to help? the level of Batllavë/Batlava Lake. Th e In the past, water shortages required Municipality of Prishtinё/Priština Firstly, it is important for every one that conservation measures be taken issued a regulation banning the use of us to make sure we conserve water by local municipalities. Due to the of water for washing streets, cars, during everyday use. Reminders particularly dry weather during the or watering gardens in March 2007. are hanging in our accommodation winter of 2006/2007, the water supply Th e lake in Batllavë/Batlava provides telling us not to waste water. Secondly, had to be cut back. Th e exceptionally about 70% of the water supply for KFOR has always helped spread dry summer which followed meant Prishtinë/Priština. the important message about water the water situation worsened and conservation and management to all severe water shortages were reported Recent visits by the KFOR Chronicle the people in Kosovo. Th erefore, it is all over Kosovo. Th e authorities to some of these reservoirs show that important we do our part and lead by consequently came up with certain water levels are low in both Batllavë/ example emergency measures intended to Batlava and Badovac/Badovc, while Lt Cdr Darragh Kirwan

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 11 HISTORY REPORT

KFOR- JUNE 1999 Th e month of June 1999 was an important period in the life of the newly formed (KFOR). Th e following are the critical key events that occurred during that busy month.

ilitary Technical Agreement (MTA) Kosovo. As can be seen from the map the main elements MFollowing approval by the Serb Parliament and the were as follows: Federal Government on 03 June 1999, an international - German contingent crossed from Albania into the security force (to be called KFOR) would deploy to southwest sector, Kosovo under the auspices of the United Nations. Th e - French crossed from FYROM and travelled to the Military Technical Agreement (MTA) was the agreement northern sector, reached between KFOR and the forces of the Federal - US contingent crossed from FYROM into the southeast Republic of Yugoslavia (FRY) in order to coordinate sector, the arrangements needed between the withdrawing - UK contingent crossed from FYROM into the central forces and incoming KFOR. Discussions started on 05 sector, June 1999 and concluded with an agreement signed by - Italian contingent crossed from FYROM to the western both sides on 09 June 1999 in Kumanova, the Former sector and Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). Since then - Russian contingent, travelling from Bosnia, crossed this agreement has been referred to as the MTA or the from from the northeast into the central sector. Kumanova Agreement.

KUMANOVA AGREEMENT

Th e MTA provided for a phased withdrawal of FRY forces from three designated zones in Kosovo (I, II and III), ending with complete withdrawal on 20 June 1999. Th e withdrawal began from the Entry into Force Day (EIF Day) or the day the agreement was signed 09 June 1999.

N Security Council Resolution 1244 and UOperation Joint Guardian Th e United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1244 was adopted on 10 June 1999, a day aft er the MTA was signed. Operation Joint Guardian was also authorised by the North Atlantic Council on 10 June 1999. On 12 June, the fi rst elements of KFOR entered

122 KFORKFOOR CHRONICLECHRONIICLEE 66/2013/2/ 00113 KFOR 1999

Th e basic mission of NATO Operation Joint Guardian was: - to establish a security presence in Kosovo, as authorised by the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1244 and further defi ned in the Military Technical Agreement (MTA) signed by military authorities from the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and NATO, - to verify and enforce the terms of the MTA, - to establish a secure environment in which refugees and displaced persons can return home in safety, - to establish a secure environment in which the international civil presence can operate, a transitional administration can be established, and humanitarian aid can be delivered, - to help achieve a self-sustaining secure environment; this will allow public security responsibilities to be transferred to appropriate civil organisations.

greement with the Kosovo Liberation AArmy (KLA) Once established in Kosovo, KFOR’s next task was to reach agreement with the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA, known also by its Albanian acronym, UCK) as under UNSCR 1244 KFOR was the sole authority for security in Kosovo. An Undertaking was reached on 21 June, committing the KLA to a timetable for their disbandment as a military force. Th is allowed a planned demilitarisation of the KLA over 90 days starting on the date the Undertaking was signed. Th is ultimately led to the signing of the agreement on 21 September in the Batcave, HQ KFOR, Camp Film City. Th is agreement replaced the KLA with the (KPC). Th e painting of these negotiations hangs outside the Batcave to this day. Lt Cdr Darragh Kirwan

KFORKFOR CHRONICLECHRONICLELE 66/2013/2/ 010 3 1313 HISTORY REPORT - BATCAVE PAINTING

IMPLEMENTING THE UNDERTAKING

14 KFORKFOR CHRONICLECHRONICLLE 66/2013/2013 CSM MEETING MULTINATIONAL SHOOTING TRAINING FOR CSM IN MOUNT GOLES SHOOTING RANGE At 0725hrs on the morning of 08 June 2013, we enter the camp of the MSU. Th e weather is excellent today, blue skies and a few clouds. In a few minutes the CSM meeting will start. PICTURES: MSU (2) A welcome brief is given at Mount Goles

t is already planned, but more We are driving as a huge column, approaching a military area. Ior less a surprise, because heading towards Prizren. nobody has been informed in I have never been here before and detail about the programme for Close to Malishevë/Mališevo, we Mount Goles is the name of the the day. Th is day has been made leave the highway and follow minor place. A shooting range is located possible with the kind approval roads. Aft er a while we reach a at the foot of the mountain with of the MSU Commander, Colonel mountain; a sign tells us that we are the shooting direction straight into Mario Di Iulio, with the support of the Lieutenant Giovanni Giusto (Platoon Commander) and Sergeant Major Berardo TOSCANO (Carabinieri CSM). Sergeant Major Toscano is the man of the day. He volunteered to host the CSM meeting and I have the impression he is going to do a great job today.

We get the information that we have to mount our vehicles and follow Sergeant Major Toscano.

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 15 CSM MEETING

the mountain, protected on the to familiarise ourselves with the forward to check our results. Some right by a saddle and on the left by weapon into normal targets. Th en of us are more pleased than others, a large HESCO wall. Inside, some we get additional rounds. During but certainly Sergeant Major Pascal vehicles of the MSU are displayed to recharging the magazines, the Noel can be proud of his pistol skills. be introduced to our group. To the support team changed the targets. I am convinced he can kill a fl y at a left of the vehicles is a tent, where Th is time there are fi ve little circles distance of 50 m with one round, if weapons of the MSU are displayed. at diff erent places on the target and he sees it! Does this mean we will shoot with we are to hit the targets according them? to Lt Giusto’s orders, as precisely as We receive more rounds and empty PICTURES: MSU (2) A group photo in the MSU Camp

We are welcomed by Lt Giusto as possible. Aft er we shoot, we clear the bottles are placed on the top of the shooting director and safety offi cer weapon and put it on safe to move target racks. We increase the distance in charge. OR-9 Maurizio Maio and OR-4 Giovanni Rossi support him as shooting instructor and armourer respectively. In a tent we get an introduction to all those weapons. We can see the Semi- Automatic Rifl e Franchi SPAS 15 (Cal. 12 Gauge), Beretta 92FS pistol (9x19 mm PARA), M-203 Grenade Launcher (Cal. 40 mm) and the FN MINIMI Light Machine Gun (Cal. 5.56x45 mm NATO). Yes, we may shoot! Th e weapons of choice are the pistol, MINI MI, the shotgun and the grenade launcher.

Th e fi rst exercise is with the pistol. All of us shoot rounds A great meal is enjoyed by all

16 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 MOUNT GOLES SHOOTING RANGE and start shooting at the bottles. us where your name comes from. lot of issues and had a nice briefi ng Amazingly, this looked much easier about the Carabinieri. Finally, a in the Western movies, I’ve never Th e next exercise is the MINI MI. very well prepared, organised CSM done this before and I thought it Each of us get 100 rounds and we meeting and day on the range came would be much easier than it was. In can do any exercise we like. I want to to an end. For this, I would like to the end I hit four out of fi ve bottles! test the weapon and I am very happy thank Sergeant Major Toscano, Lt Th at is not so bad and at least I am and confi dent with it. It is so easy to Giusto and Colonel Di Iulio for not last. Th e next shooters follow us aim, to keep on target during bursts their outstanding hospitality and and on the left is Pascal Noel again. and to perform single shots with it. I execution. Let’s see how he performs. Bang, hit, like it and I have the impression that bang, hit, bang, hit, bang, bang, bang, the others do too. Th e last exercise AND CONGRATULATIONS TO hit, wow, only one left , bang, bang, is to shoot tear gas with the grenade THE CARABINERIE ON YOUR bang…will he hit the last bottle? launcher. We get some rounds and 199th ANNIVERSARY!!! Bang, hit! He manages to hit all fi ve! fi re on a designated target area. CSM Angelo Fuchs Th e one and only! Th en we shoot this exercise again and the result is the Aft er we fi nished all the necessary same. Th e only 100% shooter is Noel safety procedures, we head back to Chapeau! the MSU camp. Here we enjoyed an excellent lunch. We get the idea that Next, to the shotgun! First attempt we have some great cooks in our with 6 rounds on automatic. Easy, it diff erent camps. I think the cooks kicks a bit, but I am wondering how of the Bavaria and the cooks of the Sergeant Major Lyon, the tough CSM MSU camp, in this order, are the best from MNBG-E, will manage this in KFOR. Maybe the other cooks weapon. I know she likes it, but she in theatre are disappointed now? is not tall, she is not heavy, and what So what about a cooking contest will the weapon do to her? Answer! in the MSU kitchen with all the Nothing! She absorbs the kick as cooks in KFOR? I would imagine if she weighs double. Well done that the CSMs would volunteer as Sergeant Major Lyon. Here you show referees! In the end, we discussed a Sergeant Major Toscano PICTURES: MSU (2) CSMs in action

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 17 MNBG-E CHANGE OF COMMAND & TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY PICTURES: Spc. Samantha Parks (2) PICTURES: Samantha Parks Spc. COMKFOR presents the guidon to Col Woods MNBG-E CHANGE OF COMMAND & TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY For the fi rst time in nearly a decade, an active duty U.S. Army unit assumed Command in Kosovo during a transfer of authority ceremony held on 01 June in Camp Bondsteel.

he 525th Battlefi eld while also fostering relationships, stating “you have successfully TSurveillance Brigade (BfSB) which have helped set conditions for completed all missions and thus took command of Multinational positive change in Kosovo.” decisively contributed to the overall Battle Group-East (MNBG-E) accomplishments of KFOR, moving from the 218th Manoeuvre Commander of KFOR, Major us all ‘Forward Together’”. Storey Enhancement Brigade (MEB), a General Halbauer, similarly praised also refl ected on the relationships National Guard unit.

Col Waymon B. Storey III, Commander of the 218th MEB, transferred authority of MNBG-E to Col David J. Woods, Commander of the 525th BfSB.

Col Storey congratulated his soldiers and commended them on a job well done.

“Th ese men and women have served with distinction over the past nine months,” COM KFOR with Col Storey - Outgoing COM MNBG-E Storey said. “Th ey have remained committed to providing the work of the 218th MEB for their that were built while in Kosovo and a safe and secure environment eff orts throughout their deployment, the lasting impact of their work.

18 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 MNBG-E CHANGE OF COMMAND & TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY

a vision we all share, national contingents represented in which is a future of their formation.” sustainable stability in Kosovo. Truly your Woods said it is an honour to be success has been our working with their multinational success, and it is my partners and he hopes to continue sincere hope that we the great work of 218th MEB in measured up to your creating a better future for all expectations, for you those in Kosovo. “I look forward to deserved nothing less working with you, building a team than our absolute best and moving ‘Forward Together’ to eff orts.” ensure our mission here continues to progress and to assist the local people In handing over in bringing peace and stability to responsibility of the Kosovo,” said Col Woods. In his last battle group, Storey was remarks before handing over the positive the future of reins of MNBG-E, Col Storey closed Kosovo would continue with a one fi nal message: to improve with the Col David J. Woods - Incoming COM MNBG-E 525th BfSB. “It has been an honour to serve PICTURES: Spc. Samantha Parks (2) PICTURES: Samantha Parks Spc. COMKFOR takes the guidon from Col Storey

“When we fi rst assumed this “I can say with confi -dence to all here with all of you during these past mission, we pledged our commitment here that you will fi nd an incredible nine months of marked progress in to provide security for all through partner in Col. Woods and his the history of Kosovo,” Storey said. cooperation with local communities, dynamic team,” Storey said. “Th ey “I greatly value the relationships we institutions in KOSOVO, and stand before you prepared to assume forged, and will miss them greatly. international organizations,” Storey this mission thanks to the hard work You all have our heartfelt wishes for said. He continued, “I pledged to you of their soldiers, the steadfast support continued success. Th ank you, and that my multinational team would of their families, and quality, realistic Steadfast.” be responsible and accountable to training and support provided by all SPC Samantha Parks

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 19 SUDOKU

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diffi cult very diffi cult

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Rules: Solutions MAY The standard consists of a grid Sudoku fi eld with 3 × 3 blocks, which are each divided into 3 × 3 fi elds, a total of 81 fi elds in 9 rows and 9 columns. In some of these fi elds at the beginning digits 1 to 9 are registered (“targets“).

The task is to fi ll in the blanks of the puzzle so that in SLIGHTLY MEDIUM each of nine rows, columns and blocks of each digit from 1 to 9 appears only once.

The three areas (row, column, block) are equally units or groups. DIFFICULT DIFFICULT VERY

20 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 PICTURE OF THE MONTH JUNE

PICTURE OF THE MONTH JUNE 2013

Photo taken in Prizren

Congratulations to:

JUNE 2013 OR-9 Jim Mc CABE IRL JVB Section

Our new departure just for you!

Just send your photos to [email protected] by the 25th of the month explaining where you took the photo and what equipment you used. We will then select one of the submitted images and pub- lish it in that edition of the Chronicle.

You will be immortalized in the KFOR Chronicle ! Is that not something to be proud of?

Sincerely The Chronicle-Team

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 21 EXHIBITION

Commander KFOR WORLD PRESS Major General Volker R. Halbauer, German Army PHOTOGRAPH EXHIBITION Chief Public Affairs Office & KFOR Spokesman From 20 June to 11 July 2013 an exhibition of the World Press Lieutenant Colonel Guenter Bohn, Photo Contest is being held in the National Museum of the German Army Republic of Kosovo, in Prishtinë/Priština.

Chief Internal Information & his marks the fi rst time this attack in Vietnam; a Buddhist monk Editor KFOR Chronicle Lt Cdr Darragh Kirwan Texhibition has been held in who has set himself alight; a sole Irish Defence Forces Kosovo, mainly due to the fact that demonstrator standing in front of [email protected] Kosovo has had one previous winner tanks on Tiananmen Square. Others of this prestigious award; Mr Afrim have set trends, established styles of Photographer & Design Hajrullahu, Photographer with the press photography that can be seen Mr. Afrim Hajrullahu KFOR Chronicle, who won in 2000. re-emerging in years that followed. Master Sergeant Richard Haug, German Army For those interested in the power of [email protected] Th e competition for “World Press photography it is an opportunity to Photo of the Year” started in 1955, see the best on display. Th e exhibition Cover Photo MSG HAUG, Richard

E-mail and Web [email protected] www.nato.int/kfor Printed by RASTER Tel.: 038 601 606 NATO Nations within KFOR Albania, Bulgaria, Canada, Cro- atia, Czech Republic, Denmark, PICTURES: Hajrullahu (2) Afrim Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Luxem- with a photo of a motor-cross is open daily from 1000 – 1800hrs, bourg, Netherlands, Norway, Po- competitor taking a tumble from his but closed on Mondays. land, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, motorcycle. Th e competition was the Turkey, United Kingdom, United States. idea of Dutch photojournalists and Learn more about the World marked a rapid growth in interest Press Photo Contest at http://www. Non-NATO Nations within from around the world. Almost worldpressphoto.org/contest KFOR every year since has seen a contest Check out some of the previous Armenia, Austria, Finland, Ireland, and a winning image. Some of winners at http://www.archive. Morocco, Sweden, Switzerland, the photos have become iconic - a worldpressphoto.org/ Ukraine. naked girl running aft er a napalm Lt Cdr Darragh Kirwan The KFOR Chronicle is produced and fully funded by HQ KFOR. It is published for KFOR soldiers in the area of responsibility. The contents are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the coalition governments’ defence departments. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Internal Infor- mation Section of HQ KFOR’s Pub- lic Affairs Office (PAO) in , Kosovo. PAO HQ KFOR reserves the right to edit content to conform to style and space requirements. Articles run on a space-available National Museum basis. 22 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 PROFILES

MILITARY EDUCATION: I joined the Greek Army in 2003 at the age of 21. During my 10yrs of service i have completed the basic NCOs military training as an engineer specialist and heavy military vehicles driver. ABOUT THE MISSION: I have participated in several NATO Missions. This is my second time serving in Kosovo as Guard of Camp Film City and also I participated during 2008 as a LMT of JRD-E in Camp Bondsteel. In 2006 I served in Afghanistan as member of the Multinational Engineer Group (MNEG) in Ka- bul and also in 2011 as an Engineer Mentor for the Afghanistan National Army (ANA). Being here gives me the opportunity to discover different cultures and ways of thinking regarding the other NATO members and also establish friendly relations with Name: Stylianos Bamniatzis all the personnel I have worked with. Rank: OR-5FAMILY REACTIONS: I am married 3 years now and my wife is expecting our first child. My family supports me all the way Nationality: Greek and they are very proud of my military carrier and my decisions KFOR Unit: HSG Guard Forces until now. HOBBIES: First of all videogames, after that listening to rock and metal music, reading, running and, here in the Camp, rela- xing at the Greek NSE.

MILITARY EDUCATION: I joined the Albanian Military Aca- demy when I was 19 years old. During my 13 years service I have completed many courses at home and abroad (USA, Germany, Italy etc.). I have attained the rank of OF-2 and hope to continue climbing the career ladder. ABOUT THE MISSION: This is my second mission overseas. My first mission was in Herat, Afghanistan in 2007-2008. I am presently HQ KFOR Security Officer. I find it a very rewarding job, however it is demanding at times. I deal with international military and civilian people, as well as the local population each day. I enjoy dealing with the local people as we have a lot in com- mon, both culturally and traditionally. I am very proud to serve Name: Erjon Karriqi in HQ KFOR. I have made a lot of friends during my tour, espe- cially with those I work with every day.

Rank: OF-2FAMILY REACTION: My family and friends support me 100%, Hajrullahu (1) Afrim Nationality: Albanian especially my wife and 11 month old son. They are all very proud of the fact that I am serving and representing my country in Ko- KFOR Unit: HSG sovo. HOBBIES: My hobbies include shooting, going to the gym, hi- king and travelling abroad. PICTURE: RICHARD (1), MSG HAUG,

KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013 23 www.nato.int/kfor24 KFOR CHRONICLE 6/2013