MAGAZINE FOR HQ JFC BRUNSSUM - JUNE 2017

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NATO COMMAND & NATO SEARCH AND THE LITHUANIAN CONTROL CENTRE OF RESCUE EXERCISE ARMED FORCES EXCELLENCE HOSTS CONCLUDED DEFENSE ATTACHÉS FROM 17 COUNTRIES MILITARY DISCOUNT CENTRE

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A CF-18 Hornet fighter jet soars through the clouds over Iraq before commencing the next mission during Operation IMPACT.

Image courtesy of the Canadian Ministry of Defence.

3 ABOUT THE COVER 14 NATO JETS IN BALTIC LAUNCHED 4 COMMAND GROUP CORNER ON ALERT FOR FIRST TIME 6 VISITS AND ACTIVITIES 16 THE LITHUANIAN ARMED FORCES 8 ANNUAL NETHERLANDS 18 A PERSONAL RECOLLECTION FROM REMEMBRANCE SERVICES IN BRUNSSUM 1956-1960 AT FONTAINEBLEAU 10 NATO COMMAND & CONTROL – A SMALL PART OF NATO IN FRANCE CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE HOSTS DEFENSE 20 DID YOU KNOW ATTACHÉS FROM 17 COUNTRIES 22 ONE OF US 11 STANDING NATO MARITIME GROUP 24 MOVIE SCHEDULE ONE VISITS TALLINN, ESTONIA 26 FILM REVIEW  12 NATO SEARCH AND RESCUE EXERCISE CONCLUDED 

The NORTHERN STAR is a publication, pu- telephone: +31 (0)45 571 61 16, blished with the assistance of ‘t Swarte Schaap, or e-mail: [email protected]. Editorial Staff in co-operation with and at no cost to HQ JFC Brunssum. Opinions herein do not necessarily Submissions to the Northern Star can be made reflect official NATO or HQ JFC Brunssum to room F 1.21, Bldg. H 106 or e-mailed to pao@ Mr. Barry Mellor, GBR Civ policy. The appearance of advertisements, inclu- jfcbs.nato.int. Articles should be in Microsoft Deputy Chief Public Affairs (Civ) & Community ding inserts, does not constitute endorsement by Word format and, whenever possible, should be Relations, Advisor, Editor NATO or HQ JFC Brunssum of the products or no longer than 300 words. Photographs should services offered. Deadline for articles, adverti- be at least 9x6 centimetres and 300 dpi. The Adj Leo Roos NLD A sements and photographs is on the Monday at Northern Star is published monthly, with the Adj Shirley Ham – ter Haar, NLD MP close of business prior to the week of publica- exceptions of January and August each year. It Contributing Editor tion. is generally available around the first Friday of each month it is produced. To place an advertisement in the Northern Star, please call ’t Swarte Schaap and ask for For more information, call ext. 2687 or Rob Schaap, Sint Franciscusweg 36-3, 6417 BD +31 (0)45 526 26 87. The editor reserves the Heerlen, The Netherlands, right to edit submissions.

3 COMMAND GROUP CORNER Composed by: Rear Admiral Simon Hardern (GBR N)

hen I left the United Military Committee and, on many occasions, to have some issues develop with a ‘slow burn Kingdom’s Ministry even with the Permanent Representatives of time’; and encourage Consensus through of Defence in March the North Atlantic Council. I have to admit stimulating conversation and sharing views 2010 and set the sat- spending my first two years at SHAPE through constructive dialogue. elliteW navigation for Mons (SHAPE) wondering what they did in Brussels other in Belgium, I had little idea then that, than seemingly change some very good Be Purposeful - you should (when in eight years later (in 2017), I would still military advice into ‘something less than a position of necessary authority!) offer be working in NATO. optimum’ (to put it diplomatically). I came clear, unambiguous direction to champion to realise, however, and something that primacy of military advocacy; and ensure Through my time at SHAPE, then at NATO was reinforced by four years working in that your team share the credit for successes HQ in Brussels and, since December last the International Military Staff, that this but that you take responsibility for failures. year, here in Brunssum, I have to admit (what some perceive as) ‘dumbing down’ that I have had many (many) frustrating represents the small price for reaching Have Priorities and Plan - this means moments to contend with. At the same Consensus amongst 28 (soon to be 29 you each should: focus on the actionable time and somewhat curiously, I have also with the Accession of Montenegro in May) deliverables with the aspiration to do good, found it to be one of the most professionally Nations - each time they agree represents a backed with the appropriate capacity and challenging and thoroughly rewarding small miracle and the manifestation of ‘the capabilities to follow-through; and facilitate periods of my (so far) 33 year career in Her art of the possible;’. work by establishing a clear and agreed plan Majesty’s Royal Navy. It has been, without focused on having the right discussions at the any doubt, a very busy period with much that If I draw the context offered above together right time with clearly defined deliverables. has kept the Alliance (and me) on its toes - then, from my seven years in NATO thus far, the ISAF surge and subsequent transition what I have learnt is: After six months at Brunssum, I have to RESOLUTE SUPPORT Mission (which I considered whether these maxims still ring named), Operation UNIFIED PROTECTOR Be Personable - you each must: show true … and I strongly believe that they do. I (which I also named), three Summits trust and respect to all; encourage two- would encourage all of you to spend a few (Chicago, Wales and Warsaw), delivery way discussion in an open and transparent moments each day, as you tackle your tasks, to of the Readiness Action Plan, Assurance/ way; view time in any of the HQs as a think about what you are doing and the part it Adaptation Measures, GRPs, eFP and a NCS learning environment; and recognise might play in maintaining a strong and relevant Review (with another one pending in the that no question is ever too stupid (and Alliance. Each of you brings an experience in next year). it is often the question many would ask if a certain field and you must never shy-away they the strength of character to do so)! from using it or, even better, from sharing that As a junior Captain in 2010, as I began the I actually think military officers are far experience. And it is not just a matter of what adventure, I was also told that volunteering more diplomatic than many of our civilian you know but who you know so do all in your to serve in NATO could well mean the end to counterparts and we might often wish to power to create a network of contacts, not just my career and certainly promotion. I have, avoid confrontation - I’ve never bought in in this Headquarters but with others, down, however, somehow miraculously ridden to that one. In nestling your arguments across and up the Chain of Command. Those the crest of a rather large wave and have not in common-sense, you must never avoid up can be of particular value and can often looked back since that time. Having been telling the people (albeit respectfully) the result in you avoiding a great deal of wasted away from home-shores for so long, it goes way you see it because as, Staff Officers, you effort that you can ill afford to expend. If you without saying that I would undoubtedly more often than not have an opinion that leave this HQ without thinking that you would, struggle to find my feet in a job either back really does count and needs to be heard. at some stage in the not too distant future, like with my Navy or in a Joint job in UK Defence. This leads nicely into my other maxims. to return to NATO, then I feel we, the senior In truth, the question I ask myself is ‘why management, would have failed you. So, be would I want to return?’ If you think about Be Prepared - you each need to: recognise thoughtful, energetic and never fear about of it, the role we all play in NATO is crucial to the importance of situational awareness; asking your peers or superiors challenging the strength of the Alliance - the advice that ensure rapid decision making when necessary questions but, equally, never go to them we help develop and then pass to SHAPE will (you might laugh noting that NATO is not with a problem without being in a position often end up in the hands of the Nations in the necessarily well known for this); not be afraid to offer them mitigating solutions.

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Commander JFC Brunssum Visits Latvia 21 APR 2017

Riga, Latvia - On 21 April Commander JFC and missions with special regard to NATO’s Brunssum, General Salvatore Farina, visited enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) and the Latvia in order to meet with the Latvian upcoming deployment of the multinational Secretary of State for Defence, Mr. Janis battlegroup to Adazi in June. Garisons, and the Latvian Chief of Defence, Major General Leonids Kalnins.

Meetings focused on the contribution of the Latvian Armed forces to NATO operations

Ukrainian War Veterans Visit JFC Brunssum 24 APR 2017

Brunssum, Netherlands – the NATO Public erans. Presentations were delivered to pro- Diplomacy Division (NATO HQ, Brus- vide insight to the role and responsibilities sels) working together with the NATO of JFC Brunssum and granularity of NATO’s Information and Documentation Centre enhanced Forward Presence activities along in the Ukraine, jointly organized a visit of its north-eastern flank. JFC Brunssum competition winners to NATO HQ in Brus- briefers outlined JFCBS`s structure, tasks sels, Belgium, and JFC Brunssum 24-26 and current operations, providing more April. Participants comprised war veterans, detail about the operation in the Baltics and including disabled servicemen, who recently Poland. fought in Eastern Ukraine.

JFC Brunssum was honoured to host this group of Ukrainian wounded military vet-

King’s Day Race 26 APRIL 2017

Brunssum, Netherlands - On Wednesday 26 April the JFC Brunssum Fitness Centre held their annual King’s Day races. This com- prised 5 and 10 km events that saw some 50 runners take part. Running conditions were perfect, the sun even came out for us!

6 April 2017 / May 2017

10 MAY 2017 NATO Civilians Awarded for Long Service

Brunssum, Netherlands - NATO Inter- the military and provide essential conti- national Civilian staff working on the nuity’, he explained. JFC Brunssum site gathered to pay their respects to the long service of colleagues. On this occasion Mrs Manuela Tegethoff- Rear Admiral Simon Hardern (JFC Belau and Mr Johannes Janssen were Brunssum Deputy Chief of Staff (Plans)) rewarded for 15 years of service, whilst made a rousing speech underlining the Mr William Pickwell gained official rec- critical role played by civilian staff day- ognition for reaching the milestone of 35 to-day within the Alliance structure and years of service. in the mission environment. ‘Civilians bring a raft of skills not normally found in

10 MAY 2017 Intelligence Systems User Group Hosted by JFC Brunssum

Brunssum, Netherlands - The 18th Intel- mand Operations structure, as well as ligence Systems User Group (ISUG) meet- some participants from the NATO Force ing was held on 10-11 May 2017, at JFC Structure. The NATO Communications Brunssum. The event was organized by and Information Agency (NCIA), BICES the Intel Systems Section from the Intel- group executive (BGX) and the Allied ligence Division of the headquarters and Command Counter-Intelligence Unit chaired by a representative from SHAPE. (ACCI) were also present. Allied Group Surveillance (AGS), Allied Command Almost 40 ISUG members took part in Transformation (ACT) and STRIKE- the meeting, representing NATO HQ and FORCE NATO also joined the ISUG via most commands from the Allied Com- Video Conference.

17 MAY 2017 Resolute Support Key Leader Training

Brunssum, Netherlands - JFC Brunssum Afghanistan and, as in this case, conduct is the out-of-theatre operational head- Key Leader Training (KLT) that prepares quarters for NATO’s Resolute Support military and civilian staff for deployment. mission (RSM), in Afghanistan. Es- Resolute Support KLT is a biannual event sentially, this means the headquarters organised by JFC Brunssum. The training does everything in its power to enable forms part of a broader pre-deployment RSM i.e. oversee the development of package that provides Key Leaders with a projects funded by the Alliance (provid- current strategic, geo-strategic and opera- ing airports, roads, buildings, electricity, tional overview of the RS mission. etc), operationalise strategic guidance, run the NATO budget for RSM, contract local support staff such as interpreters in

7 ANNUAL NETHERLANDS REMEMBRANCE SERVICES IN BRUNSSUM Composed by: Ms Petra Szeplaki (HUN C)

runssum, Netherlands make their way to the Brunssum Once formed at the British War Cem- – 4 May, the annual General Cemetery. etery an opening prayer was given Netherlands remem- by Chaplain Mitchell. This was im- brance services were At the General Cemetery opening re- mediately followed by a special ci- Bconducted at Brunssum. Ser- marks were made by Mayor Winants. tation from the Dutch Forces Rabbi vices commenced with a well- His thoughtful words were based Gaillard before wreaths were laid attended International Ecu- around a central theme of continued Subsequently, pupils from Brunssum menical Service at the Gregorius struggle for peace via sacrifice, shared Primary Schools and Limburg Scouts Church led by Pastoor-Deken values and sustained vigilance. But, laid flowers and placed a lit candle Delahaye and Chaplain Mitch- most of all, he emphasised the debt on each of the 328 graves. The last ell; on completion, attendees owed by us all to those who have made post was followed by a minutes’ si- formed a parade, behind the AF- the ultimate sacrifice so that we can lence before the ceremony concluded NORTH Cadets Colour Guard, to enjoy freedom and security today. with the UK National Anthem.

8 9 NATO COMMAND & CONTROL CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE HOSTS DEFENSE ATTACHÉS FROM 17 COUNTRIES Composed by: Lieutenant Commander Stephen Gray (USA N)

wenty One Defense Atta- lenberg (NLD N) gave a command that was released last year, and an chés representing seven- brief that introduced the NATO COE introduction to the C2COE Seminar teen countries visited the concept, why NATO has created 24 that will be held from 13-15 June in NATO Command and Con- COEs (with 2 more soon to be ac- Valencia, Spain. Ttrol Centre of Excellence (C2COE) on credited), why C2 is still an impor- April 6th at the Kromhout Barracks, tant and relevant concept, and led a The meeting concluded with discus- in Utrecht. discussion of the manning and key sions that centered on future coop- projects for the Centre. Lieutenant eration and mutual learning between Defense Attachés are representatives of Colonel Jelle Bode (NLD AF) had the Defense Attachés and the NATO the senior military officials of their host the opportunity to share the Cen- C2COE. The desire to create a reg- nation. They also develop military to mil- tre’s work on Urbanization where he ular drumbeat meeting to continue itary relationships with the armed forc- discussed the future trends of pop- information sharing and discussion es in the nation they are serving in and ulation, migration, and the steady of ongoing initiatives was expressed give military advice to their ambassador. growth of mega-cities and how that by both parties. The NATO C2COE They are an invaluable asset to fostering might impact the decision making of is planning to be more active and military and diplomatic relationships be- NATO military leadership. Lieuten- improve its visibility outside Allied tween countries. The NATO C2COE was ant Commander Stephen Gray (USA Command Transformation and a fu- honored to host the Defense Attachés with N) and Lieutenant Colonel Federico ture cooperation with the Defense the goal of sharing information about the Clemente (ESP A) rounded out the Attachés could be an opportunity to Centre, provide briefings and facilitating presentations with a discussion of gain that effect. discussions regarding C2, as well as vari- the upcoming NATO C2COE partici- ous projects that are underway. pation in ‘Thinktank for Informa- Overall, the visit was a resounding tion, Decision and Execution Supe- success and all parties are looking The Director of the NATO C2COE, riority (TIDE)’, the Centre project forward to future opportunities to Captain Renée van Pamelen-Hol- on the Joint Task Force Handbook interact and learn together.

10 STANDING NATO MARITIME GROUP ONE VISITS TALLINN, ESTONIA Composed by: MARCOM Public Affairs Office

ALTIC SEA – Stand- maintaining sea lines of communi- During the port visit, the SNMG1 ing NATO Maritime cation, which is essential for mari- command team met with civilian Group One (SNMG1), time trade transiting in and out of and military authorities in Tallinn arrived in Tallinn, the Baltic Sea. and hosted a tour for participants BEstonia 12 May for a scheduled of the Lennart Meri international port visit as part of the group’s “We look forward to engage and security conference onboard. The deployment to the Baltic Sea. train with close Allies as well as port visit was also a great opportu- key partners in the Baltic region,” nity for the sailors to enjoy a well- The Baltic Sea is an area of great said Commander SNMG1, Com- deserved break from operations in strategic importance, where NATO modore Ole Morten Sandquist. the historical city of Tallinn. maritime units are able to pro- “SNMG1 aims to utilize every op- vide an important contribution to portunity to strengthen our col- SNMG1 is currently composed of NATO`s enhanced forward pres- lective defence, by enhancing the NATO group flagship, Norwe- ence in the region. Alliance capability and interoper- gian frigate HNoMS Roald Amund- ability through close cooperation sen, and the Dutch frigate HNLMS SNMG1 plays a valuable role in with local navies.” Evertsen.

11 NATO SEARCH AND RESCUE EXERCISE CONCLUDED Composed by: MARCOM Public Affairs Office

ORTHWOOD, United lenging aeronautical and maritime Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Sweden Kingdom (May 11, 2017) training scenarios. In total, nine Rescue collaborated and interacted together - On Wednesday May Coordination Centres (RCC’s) compris- during the training scenarios. 10, 2017, NATO’s Search ing of Joint, Maritime and Air Centres The aim of Exercise Dynamic Mercy is andN Rescue (SAR) exercise Dynam- from eight NATO countries and Part- to practice and develop inter-regional ic Mercy concluded after training ners with adjacent Search and Rescue and cross boundary cooperation and co- in the Baltic region since April 26. Regions participated. Military and ci- ordination between the RCCs of Allies vilian air and maritime assets from in NATO’s northern region with Part- The exercise was divided into six chal- Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, ner Nations that have common Search

12 and Rescue Region (SRR) boundaries mobile SAR units were tested and ac- panies from different countries and re- with those of Allies. The exercise is held tivated. These coordinated procedures gions,” said Captain Colin Walsh, Chief annually, either in the Atlantic or the are vital for common understanding of of Staff for Commander Maritime Air Baltic Region, this year focusing on the multiple national services, and crucial NATO. “NATO annual oversight and co- Baltic. for rescuing lives at sea. ordination ensure a consolidated effort During this year’s exercise, through “Dynamic Mercy is an extremely im- in Search and Rescue, contributing to live and synthetic SAR scenarios, cross portant exercise for NATO, as it enables a better understanding of the complex region cooperation and interaction be- NATO to work side by side with RCCs, SAR environment due to the multiple tween RCCs (military and civilian) and SAR units, civilian agencies, and com- actors involved.”

13 NATO JETS IN BALTIC LAUNCHED ON ALERT FOR FIRST TIME Composed by: Lieutenant Commander Stephen Gray (USA N) Photograph by: Michal Pataj (POL A)

IAULIAI, Lithuania / Combined Air Operations Centre at The Polish Air Force and the Spanish ÄMARI, Estonia - NA- Uedem, Germany, and the Control Air Force took over NATO’s Baltic Air TO’s new Baltic Air Po- and Reporting Centres at Karmelava, Policing mission at Šiauliai, Lithua- licing nations Poland Lithuania, to execute a visual identi- nia, and Ämari, Estonia in early May. Šand Spain launched their first fication of an unidentified aircraft. Since 2004, when Estonia, Latvia and alert scramble out of their bases The Polish F-16 fighter jets took off to Lithuania joined NATO, other Allies in the Baltics on Monday, May in the afternoon of May 15 to fly into have taken turns providing fighter 15, 2017. The sorties took place the skies over the Baltic Sea to iden- aircraft to safeguard the Baltic skies. under the Allies’ 24/7 routine tify an IL-20 reconnaissance aircraft This uninterrupted rotational pres- peacetime mission safeguarding while, more than an hour earlier, the ence of Allied air forces in the region the airspace of Estonia, Latvia Spanish F-18 fighters had identified ensures the same level of airspace and Lithuania. an SU-24 fighter bomber; both iden- protection across the Alliance and tified aircraft are from the Russian demonstrates solidarity and resolve. In both cases they were set off by the Federation Air Force. AIRCOM’s Air Policing peacetime

14 Two Polish F-16s leave their shelter at Šiauliai Air Base, Lithuania, to undertake their first alert scramble in support of NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission.

mission involves the use of the Air Surveillance and Control System, Air Command and Control and appropri- ate air assets, so called Quick Reac- tion Air (Interceptor) or QRA(I) fast jets. Air Policing scrambles respond to military and civilian aircraft that do not follow international flight regulations and approach Allies’ air- space.

15 Lithuanian troops deployed in support of a NATO-led peace support and stabilization operation.

THE LITHUANIAN ARMED FORCES Composed by: Major Tomas Baliūnas (LTU A)

he modern Lithuanian Independence by ensuring State sov- fence”, setting the main goal to pre- Armed Forces counts ereignty by taking over State border pare the society for general defence almost 100 years of its control from Soviet Army units, mak- and, in parallel, integrating Lithu- existence interrupted by ing the Soviet Union withdraw all So- anian Armed Forces into Western se- fiveT decades of Soviet occupation. viet Army troops from the territory of curity and defence structures – NATO The progress made during last 27 an Independent State as soon as pos- in particular. This obliged Lithuania years, when Lithuania regained sible, and re-establishing Lithuanian to develop new Military Doctrine, ad- independence and re-established Armed Forces. The initial Indepen- just personnel education and training her military, allowed the Lithu- dence consolidation process sym- programmes, and adopt NATO stan- anian Armed Forces to develop bolically was concluded in August 31, dards. This also obliged the nation to NATO standards, join the Al- 1993, when the last unit of the Soviet to support partner nations and the liance and to remain a reliable Army left the country. Alliance by contributing to ongoing partner for 13 years now. International Operations. From the very beginning, Lithuania’s After the 1990s, the most important Defence System was based on the con- All this led to the current situation where, task to perform was to consolidate the cept of “total and unconditional de- alongside providing support to the NATO

16 Enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) Bat- al Operations worldwide, led by UN, Force (ISAF). Between June 2005 and tle Group led by Germany, and support European Union (EU), the Organisa- August 2013 more than 2500 Lithu- to US Troops participating in Operation tion of Security and Co-operation in anian troops were deployed to Ghor Atlantic Resolve, Lithuania has devel- Europe (OSCE), NATO and Coalition Province in 16 six-month rotations. oped its own National Rapid Reaction led Operations. The Lithuanian-led PRT, together with Force whilst continuing to contribute to Croatia, Denmark, Georgia, Iceland, International Operations, Training and Since the first International Opera- Japan, Ukraine and the United States, Capacity Building Missions. tion Lithuania contributed troops to worked together in Ghor Province to (the UN Protection Force in Croatia) establish a secure and stable environ- Involvement in International Peace where 90 troops were deployed in ment such that International and Af- Keeping Operations started in 1994, rotations between August 1994 and ghan civilian agencies could provide when the first Lithuanian platoon-size February 1996, the biggest challenge development support and aid. unit was deployed to Croatia to par- was the Lithuanian-Led Provincial ticipate in a United Nations (UN) led Reconstruction Team (PRT) in Ghor Currently Lithuania contributes to sev- operation. Since then, Lithuania has Province, Afghanistan, as part of NA- en ongoing NATO, EU and UN-led In- participated in numerous Internation- TO’s International Security Assistance ternational Operations and Missions:

LEADING INSTITUTION MISSION/OPERATION PERSONNEL

EU-led Anti-migrant smuggling Operation SOPHIA 3 Training Mission in Mali 3 Counter-piracy Military Operation ATALANTA 1

NATO-led KFOR 1 Training Mission RESOLUTE SUPPORT 21 Deployable CIS Module Afghanistan 1

UN-led Stabilization Mission MINUSMA 1

Along with International Operations, A NATO Force Integration Unit pay off. To counter adversarial from 2014 Lithuanian military per- (NFIU) was established in Lithu- messaging, Lithuania was the first sonnel, together with counterparts ania in 2015 with the task to fa- amongst Allies to launch a large- from Canada, Poland, the United cilitate the rapid deployment of scale Public Education Campaign Kingdom and United States provide NATO’s Very High Readiness Joint on the topic of propaganda. support to Ukraine’s defence re- Task Force (VJTF) and other NATO forms, train its military personnel, Response Force (NRF) elements, Lithuania’s permanent transfor- and provide medical rehabilitation held at high readiness levels, in mation and modernisation pro- for wounded Ukrainian soldiers. order to enhance Alliance respon- cesses should also be touched siveness. upon in this article because these Lithuania will continue to contrib- keep the Lithuanian Armed Forc- ute to International Security Opera- The constant political pressure es in a constant state of develop- tions; the main effort is the provision and disinformation campaigns ment and sustained readiness in of Host Nation Support to Allies de- against NATO and Lithuania’s ac- order to best counter/meet Na- ployed in the country as part of eFP tions in the country from a neigh- tional and Allied threats, tasks and Operation Atlantic Resolve. bouring state shows those efforts and goals.

17 A PERSONAL RECOLLECTION FROM 1956-1960 AT FONTAINEBLEAU – A SMALL PART OF NATO IN FRANCE Composed by: Corporal (Rtd.) Terry Bryant (GBR F)

French Airmen’s Block on left, and French Airmen’s Mess at end of road in the Winter snow.

ow many of us can re- place where you could meet for a rope at the time. Those of us lucky call, with any detail, drink, enjoy a hot chocolate and enough to have wheels with an engine periods of life when a fresh crusty sandwich jambon enjoyed cheap petrol. Ration cards all was well? When with all the trimmings at most gave us cheap cigarettes and booze friendsH surrounded us each day times even late at night. aplenty. This also meant Paris was at work and play. Some to remain within reach for us to delight in all lifelong friends, others, through The six, later seven nationalities, that that lovely city had to offer. the Fontainebleau Veterans when the German’s joined the Amer- Association (FVA) to become ican, Belgian, British, Canadian, As WWII was not long over the good friends later in life. Camp Dutch and French at Fontainebleau French were overwhelming in their Guynemer, on the edge of Fon- learned to work in harmony, at least hospitality. I recall motoring to Di- tainebleau, that quintessentially most of the time. We enjoyed sports jon with friends and ending up in a French town was an hour’s drive and athletics, the cinema and the big dancehall. After learning that we from Paris just off the RN7 on prizes that could be won at the inter- were Armie De La Air (forgiveness the other side of which stood an services, inter-camp Bingo, which please if that is an incorrect term for ancient forest. The town was a were reputed to be the biggest in Eu- the French Air Force) the barman de-

18 United States Air Force Band of France Concert in Embry Stadium.

manded that a group seated near the and, with the exception of the Brit- am sure by the majority of those for- bar give up their seats for “our gallant ish, personnel were issued with side tunate enough to have been there. I British comrades”. I do not recall arms. The RAF Police were issued am sad that Camp Guynemer is just a paying for a single drink all night! We with truncheons. shadow of its former self and is clos- made a return trip at a later date and ing down but I am grateful for my the same courtesy was extended to The accommodation for singles was time there and the wonderful memo- us. Dijon was a city where the Brits good, four to a generous sized heated ries I have. No recollection of Fon- did cut the mustard! room that was cleaned weekly by a lo- tainebleau would be complete without cal lady. The food was good and plen- mentioning Dear old Flight Sergeant The only fly in the ointment, so to tiful, particularly if you were on night Charlie Collyer BEM; not one of the speak, were problems caused by the duty at Melun Airfield and you knew best but ‘The Best’. Algerians in ‘1959/’60 when major the Junior Tech in the Mess Stores. French cities/towns were on alert as were the camps around Fontaine- The two years of such harsh condi- bleau. The “Aircent Police”, as we tions flew by but are recounted with were called collectively, were on alert great affection by yours truly and I

19 150TH ANNIVERSARY LIMBURG DUTCH PROVINCE ‘LIMBURG NOW MOST INNOVATIVE PROVINCE IN THE NETHERLANDS’

Composed by: Ed Frieser (NLD C) Sources: Press release Province Limburg; Speech Governor Bovens.

Article VI and VII of the final act of the second London Treaty of 11 May 1867 which was signed by all the Great European Powers and made Limburg an official and integral province of the Netherlands. The document can be found in the National Archives of Luxembourg.

id you know that on 11 by the Dutch that Belgium would be an inde- German Confederation. Faction Chairman, May 2017, the Province pendent nation; until then it had been a part Joost van den Akker of VVD, the Dutch Li- of Limburg celebrated its of the Kingdom the Netherlands. The Meuse beral Party, in the Limburg Provincial States 150th Anniversary of being River formed the border with Belgian Lim- or Limburg Parliament recalled: “When Dan official and integral part of the burg, except in Maastricht, the present Lim- Otto von Bismarck abrogated the German Kingdom the Netherlands? Although burg Capital. Although the Dutch Province of Confederation the Limburg question could Limburg already existed as a political Limburg has existed in this form since 1839 it finally be solved. Until that moment, in ad- entity since 1839, following the split took another thirty years or so to formally end dition to Dutch law, Confederation Law was of Limburg into Belgium and Dutch the awkward situation that Limburg had been applicable and even had to prevail.” For this elements, the Dutch Province of Lim- a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, as reason the Provincial Government and Pro- burg had a double status as it was well as of the German Confederacy (an Alli- vincial States, extensively commemorated also part of the German Confederati- ance of smaller German States). Limburg was and celebrated this historic event on 11 May on, and known as the German Duchy also a German Duchy. This double status is 1017 with a symposium and feast at the Pro- Limburg. An unwanted situation! hard to understand. With the second Treaty vincial House in presence of Minister Ro- of London (11 May 1867) 150 years ago, this nald Plasterk, Minister of Domestic Affairs. all came to an end as it was decided by the Treaty of London Great European powers - the Austrian Em- In 1815, at the Vienna Conference following pire, Kingdom of Prussia, the Russian Em- Governor’s New Years the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo, the new pire, the Kingdom of Italy, the United King- Speech Kingdom of the Netherlands was created and dom, the French Empire, the Grand Duchy of included some former Austrian territory that Luxembourg, the Kingdom of Belgium, and During the Governor’s New Year’s re- in 1830 became Belgium. When the Catho- the Kingdom of the Netherlands - that Lim- ception on 2 January 2017 the Limburg lic and French-speaking Belgians split away burg should become a province of the King- Governor, Theo Bovens, gave a historic from the mainly Calvinist northern Nether- dom of the Netherlands. summary of the history of Limburg: “In lands in the Belgian Revolution of 1830, the 1867 Limburg finally got married to The Province of Limburg was originally almost Netherlands. Not that they passionately entirely under Belgian rule. At the time of the 150 th Anniversary fell into each other’s arms because the signing of the first Treaty of London, 19 April love for Holland was not that big. The 1839, the province was officially divided into Celebrations Dutch currency, the Dutch language, and two parts, with the eastern part going to the the Dutch habits were not welcomed by Netherlands and the western part to Belgium. The Seven Weeks’ War between Austria and the Limburgers.” Many Limburgers and, At that time it was also decided, and accepted Prussia, in 1866, led to the collapse of the in particular, Maastricht citizens cer-

20 tainly wanted to be a part of Belgium. café of the Netherlands? Right, Café ‘In to? Right, to Parkstad Limburg. And Hence their participation in the Belgian de Karkol’ in Maastricht. And where do which province is candidate for an Ein- revolt against Holland. In large parts of they serve the best coffee of the Nether- stein Telescope, the most powerful in the South-Limburg German was the official lands? Right, Coffee Mundo in Sittard. world to measure gravity waves, not only language. It was only after World War I Where do you find the absolute logistical because of the geographical terrain con- in Eastern South Limburg, that German hot spot in the Netherlands? Right, in ditions but also because of the presence had to make way for Dutch as the offi- Venlo Limburg. And where do you find of so many universities in the direct vici- cial language. In priority order, French the best vineyards of the Netherlands nity? Right, in Limburg. And finally in came after the Maastricht dialect, and and Belgium? Right in Vijlen, already which province will all public transport was the second language in Maastricht. a close community for 1001 years. And be completely electric driven? Yes in Maastricht had, throughout the nine- where do you find the highest concentra- Limburg. With the recently started pu- teenth Century, French language news- tion of musical companies? In Limburg. blic transport concession all busses and papers. As Governor Bovens continued: And by the way, in summer 2017 from 6 trains that drive through the province of ”In fact we were migrants in our own – 30 July the World Music Contest takes Limburg within the next decade will be country. And that country did not speak place in Kerkrade. And where do you find electrically powered. So, after 150 years, very favourably about us.” The Gover- the most international University of the which Province can now be found in the nor even cited a sentence in a text from Netherlands? Right, in Maastricht. Ne- top three of most innovative provinces Holland in 1887 when Limburg was al- arly half of the students and almost forty of the Netherlands: Limburg. Limburg’s ready twenty years the tenth Province per cent of the academic staff come from position at the German and Belgian bor- in the Netherlands: “…such an awkward abroad. And where in the Netherlands ders ensures a close relationship with its child in the Dutch family is the Provin- did HRH Prince Constantijn and Minis- European neighbours. This gives rise to ce of Limburg.” “Until they found out ter Kamp of Economic Affairs officially economic, social and cultural opportuni- that Limburg was very rich because of open a top campus for smart data and ties that will only reinforce the Nether- the presence of coal, and such a child services? Right in Heerlen, the Bright- lands. This year, on 7 February, it was you let not go. Not as long as you can, lands Smart Services Campus in addition also 25 years that the Maastricht Treaty literally and figuratively, nicely warm to three others in Sittard-Geleen, Venlo was signed where 12 European leaders yourself on its wealth… “ and Maastricht where new buildings decided that the time was ripe for a more and institutions were opened. Where united Europe. So, in conclusion, the But, humorously, he continued with a does the automobile industry bloom as Netherlands can be very happy that it historic quiz and asked amongst other ever before? Right, at Nedcar in Born was allowed to link itself with Limburg. questions: “Where do the fastest men (where BMWs and Minis are produced) The accession of Limburg as a Dutch of our country come from? On a bicy- where the number of employees grew province now looks back proudly on a cle and in a Formula 1 race car? Right from 1500 to 4000. And where did the history spanning 150 years; a history de- from Limburg, Tom Dumoulin and Max highest Touristic Award in the world, the rived from a relationship that has proven Verstappen. Where do you find the best Tourism for Tomorrow Award 2016, go beneficial to all concerned.

21 ONE OF US CORPORAL (OR-4) TREVOR PARK, AIR FORCE (GBR F)

Composed by: Corporal Trevor Park (GBR F)

Scan the qr-code for more interesting information about the UK ONE OF US

WHEN DID YOU ARRIVE IN THE IS YOUR FAMILY HERE WITH YOU? NETHERLANDS AND WHAT POSITION HAVE YOU TAKEN? I have a house in Heerlen where I live with my wife Vikki and 3 children. My I arrived in the Netherlands in July 2 daughters go to Afnorth Internatio- 2016 and I work as the Staff Assistant nal School and my son will start Sun- to the Political Advisor. beams in January 2018.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR MILITARY WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? CAREER. Football. I like to watch and read about I joined the Royal Air Force in 1999 football. Due to limited ability I am not and trained as an administration/hu- much of a player although I do try to man resources clerk. My first posting get to the gym for 5-a-sides when I can. was with the Queens Colour Squadron in London from 2000 – 2003, then I WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN YOUR JOB? moved to No 1 Air Control Centre. I had a 3-year tour at Brunssum working I enjoy working with people from dif- in the UK Support Unit (2008 – 2011) ferent nationalities to learn about their before returning to the UK to work at culture. I am also interested in how RAF Kinloss, in the north of Scotland. peoples’ attitudes differ from popular Further postings to RAF Honington and opinion in the UK. RAF Waddington led me back to Bruns- sum.

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I spent 6 months at Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia working in the US billeting of- fice as the RAF accommodation clerk in 2003 during Op Iraqi Freedom. I have also spent 7 months at Camp Bastion, in Afghanistan, with the RAF Force Pro- tection Wing.

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Working as a staff assistant in the Political Advisor’s outer office my job is to provide administrative support to the POLAD and the POLAD staff. This includes monitoring the POLAD office mailbox and running the calendar. A large part of my job is booking travel on behalf of POLAD for her many duty trips.

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CROSSCURRENTS FESTIVAL MAASTRICHT MAY13TH

his summer the brand ner Jacob Collier, Dutch afro-pop talent To top it all off the Conservatorium Maas- new CrossCurrents Fes- Jungle by Night and Adele’s favourite tricht is arranging an entire programme of tival is set to take over pianist Neil Cowley (the most listened young talent on an outdoor& Koo stagel complete n en Maastricht’s Sphinx to pianist in the world thanks to his per- with delicious locale food offerings. tt quarter with Grammy winning formance on “Rolling in the Deep” and ü TEU NEW CARS J musicians, innovative arts/science “Hello”). PROGRAM: productions, film screenings with live soundtracks and young top Pathé cinema takes a different appro- Music THE ORIGINAL talent in Limburg. Combining ach, presenting four films with live jazz Jacob Collier, Jungle by Night, Cairo Li-  98 music, science, art and film, soundtracks including a screening of beration Front, STUFF.,since 19Bruut, Fluid CrossCurrents revels in crossing Alfred Hitchcock’s classic silent movie Orchestra, Just another Foundry, BABS genres and disciplines to showcase Blackmail brought to life by live music (Maastricht Jazz Award Winner 2016) - the most innovative projects in by Superjazz quartet BRUUT! Lucy Echo,YOUR Conservatorium ADVANTAGES Maastricht Maastricht and beyond. Latin Band and Conservatorium Maas- ✓ We deliver almost all car models 40%Lumiere continues this theme with the tricht Big withBand optional extras made by VW, This unique collaborative festival brings landmarkoff 1920s horror film Nosferatu Skoda, Seat, Ford, Opel, Peugeot, together totally different venues such as (F.W. Marnau) and a live reimagining of Science Renault, Dacia, Kia, Hyundai, Suzuki, the Pop venue Muziekgieterij, Lumière the soundtrack by no less than Belgian Dr. Ron Heerenin addition - to Dr. other Bea models de Gelderby Audi, - Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, (arthouse cinema) and Pathé (regular ci- Jazz Greats DJ Buscemi and pianist Mi- Dr. Elia FormizanoMazda, Nissan, - Dr. Mitsubishi Gerhardt and Weiss Fiat nema) in Maastricht, in a unique format chel Bisceglia. However, they quickly ✓ TOP prices that is sure to turn heads. change things up with four projects cre- Art ✓ Reliable car-buying transaction ated in collaboration by local artists and Marie van✓ No Vollenhoven, down payment Joost or cash Vrouenraets, in advance Whats happening at CrossCurrents scientists from the University Maas- Jan van✓ Eyck, Fair financing Joris Hoefakkers Festival? tricht and UNUMerit. Highlights inclu- ✓ Trade-in of used cars Front and centre, the Muziekgieterij will de a dance performance by Limburg’s Film ✓ Europe-wide host two stages full of world class musi- own Joost Vrouenraets and an incredi- Nosferatu manufacturer’s(F.W. Marnau) guarantee with Dj Buscemi cal*Save acts up with to 40% a comparedfocus on to thecrossover respective manufacturer’sartists, ble recommended multimedia retail price show (plus incorporationdestination charges) forAr a- new andcar. the✓ Michel 29 years Bisceglia of experience Acoustic Ensemble- i.e. jazz+electro, jazz+pop, jazz+afro, this tificial Intelligence and the fantastic art Blackmail in (A. the EUHitchcock) new car trade with BRUUT!- ✓ Over 70.000 satisfied customers includesYour contact: headliners Mrs. Großsuch ·as [email protected] grammy win- work of Marie van Vollenhoven. For Your Legs Only with I Compani. ✓ Already in 2005, we were voted the Waldfeucht-Bocket (commercial area) · Im Hagenkamp 21 second-best car dealers in Germany Phone: +49 (0) 24 55 - 930 21-12 · www.juetten-koolen.de (KFZ-Vertriebs-Award 2005)

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In 1939 Poland, Antonina Żabińska (Jessica Chastain) and her husband, Dr. Jan Żabiński (Johan Heldenbergh), have the Warsaw Zoo flourishing under his stewardship and her care.

When their country is invaded by the Nazis, Jan and Antonina are stunned – and forced to report to the Reich’s newly appointed chief zoologist, Lutz Heck (Daniel Brühl). To fight back on their own terms, Antonina and Jan co- vertly begin working with the Resis- tance – and put into action plans to save lives out of what has become the Warsaw Ghetto, with Antonina put- ting herself and even her children at great risk.…

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