“Silver Sabre“ Exercise

KFORThe KFOR Magazine for KFOR CHRONICLE Soldiers May 2014

“SILVER SABRE“ EXERCISE

THE PRESIDENT OF KOSOVO VISITED KFOR HQ www.nato.int/kfor CONTENT PICTURE: HAJRULLAHU Afrim German Bilateral Mechanic Training with KSF Technical Students.

DIRECTOR NLAT COM KFOR MEETINGS Address The President of Kosovo 03 04 Visited KFOR HQ COM KFOR MEETINGS COM KFOR Meets the Northern MNBG-W Mayors Arrival of Moldovan Forces to 06 KFOR SILVER SABRE EXERCISE 07 J3 CONOPS Training CSMs ACTIVITIES 08 Tour for new CSMs PRISTINA HALF 10 MARATHON COM KFOR MEETINGS 12 “Run for Peace and Tolerance” HRH Grand Duke Henri De Luxemburg Visited KFOR HQ NEWS IN BRIEF 14 JRD-S KFOR Activities School Projects 15 Camp Bondsteel Polish Constitution Day 16 PAO 17 LEGAD Information, Media and PAO Legal Framework of the Deli- mitation of the KFOR Mission 18 19 CANADIAN CHARITY PROFILES Canadian Contingent Di Genua Ciro Gkavalekas Fotios 20 21 SUDOKU PICTURE OF THE MONTH An activity for the brain 23 Your chance to be a part of it! 22 2 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 DIRECTOR NLAT ADDRESS

SUCCESSFUL CONTINUANCE OF NLAT’s MISSION

NATO Liaison and Advisory Team (NLAT) continues its successful mission in advising and supporting the Kosovo Security Force. Advisors and SMEs of NLAT from 15 different nations are helping the KSF in its development as a partner in providing stability and security for all the people of KOSOVO.

After achievement of Full Operational Capability (FOC) of the Core Capabilities (Search and Rescue, Hazardous Materials, Explosive Ordinance Disposal and Firefighting) on July the 9th 2013, NATO has assessed the requirement to further support the development of the KSF beyond FOC as an effective way to prevent the tensions in the region and to contribute to internal security and confidence building among regional actors. Men and women of the NLAT are executing this task. Their role is to advise and support the KSF at Brigade level and above. In fulfilling this task, they coordinate their activities with the NATO Advisory Team (NAT), which focuses on advising the Ministry of the KSF. KSF has become a valuable supporter of all ethnic Beside humanitarian projects, KSF is also performing communities in KOSOVO. The KSF-Engineers and its core capabilities in support of the people of KOSOVO. Pioneers are developing and executing different building During the floods in April 2014, KSF has performed projects in Kosovo-Serbian communities such as NOVO operations in order to help the citizens of PRISTINA and BRDO and the DECANI Monastery. In NOVO BRDO surrounding areas. they are re-constructing the road leading to the farm As of 28th March, NLAT has entered the second Phase of the NGO “Majka devet Jugovica” which provides of its development. With this transition, NATO HQ supplies for the soup-kitchen for the poor in the area. has assumed direct command and control over NLAT, The project was initiated by the Municipality of NOVO even though NLAT is formally not part of the KFORs BRDO, financed by the EU as well as the British and Chain of Command anymore, it continues to support Swedish Embassies, coordinated by the International the mission with its work, hearts and minds. True to the Organisation for Migration (IOM) and executed by slogan “More together”, KFOR and NLAT remain one the KSF. In the DECANI Monastery, the KSF has built force in fulfilling their task of improving the security and two bridges, contributing to the process of establishing political situation for a stable, democratic, multi-ethnic trust between the Serbian-orthodox church and the and peaceful KOSOVO and providing the stability in the institutions in KOSOVO. region. This project is of an essential importance as DECANI Monastery is the last Property with the Designated Special Status (PrDSS) which is still secured by KFOR. Brigadier General Also in the Kosovo-Albanian communities, KSF is Udo Schnittker participating in humanitarian construction projects. The Director NLAT latest of these projects was re-building a bridge in the municipality of KLINA in May 2014; ensuring progress for the local agriculture.

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 3 THE PRESIDENT OF KOSOVO VISITED KFOR HQ THE PRESIDENT OF KOSOVO MADAME ATIFETE JAHJAGA VISITED KFOR HQ On 21 May the President of KOSOVO Madame Atifete JAHJAGA visited KFOR HQ at Camp Film City in Pristina and was met by an honor guard and COM KFOR, Major-General Salvatore FARINA, who welcomed the President of Kosovo. PICTURE: Giovanni DELLE CAVE (2) PICTURE: DELLE CAVE Giovanni

This is the first time that the President visited officially the NATO HQ in Pristina. The President and COM KFOR had a four eyes meeting during which General FARINA presented the general security situation in Kosovo, the Balkan areas in general and the latest developments of KFOR activities, and also pledged KFOR’s support to the Belgrade- Pristina dialogue under the endorsement of the European Union. COM KFOR underlined the substantial progress in the security and Freedom of Movement that have been made in parallel with the increased capabilities of KP and KSF. Madame JAHJAGA also visited

4 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 THE PRESIDENT OF KOSOVO VISITED KFOR HQ PICTURE: Giovanni DELLE CAVE (2) PICTURE: DELLE CAVE Giovanni the Joint Operations Center (JOC) KFOR to the process of stabilization also an occasion to hold a ceremony and she was briefed on KFOR’s role and for the great professionalism of during which the President of as third responder in the upcoming all KFOR soldiers. General FARINA Kosovo and COM KFOR laid a general elections, and also about the confirmed the commitment of wreath at the monument in memory fruitful cooperation with the Kosovo KFOR in order to ensure the of all the fallen soldiers lost by KFOR Police and Kosovo Security Forces. accomplishment of the NATO during it’s 15 year mission here in Madame JAHJAGA thanked mission aimed to guarantee security Kosovo. General FARINA for the full support to all citizens of Kosovo. and the outstanding contribution of The visit of Madame JAHJAGA was

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 5 COM KFOR MEETS THE NORTHERN MAYORS COM KFOR MEETS THE NORTHERN MAYORS On 30 April, the Kosovo Force Commander (COMKFOR) Major General Salvatore FARINA hosted, for the fi rst time in KFOR HQ in Camp “Film City” in Pristina, the Mayor of MITROVICA North, Mr Goran RAKIC, the Mayor of ZUBIN POTOK, Mr Stevan VULOVIC, the Mayor of LEPOSAVIC, Mr Dragan JABLANOVIC and the Mayor of ZVECAN, Mr Vucina JANKOVIC. PICTURE: Vittorio SIMONELLI (2) Vittorio PICTURE:

General FARINA and his guests required”, General FARINA said. their respective municipalities and discussed the general situation in COM KFOR underlined the assemblies and asked them to do Kosovo with specifi c focus on the improvement in the overall security more together in the future in order North. Th ey gave great importance situation in Kosovo aft er the 19th to enhance the stability through the to mutual cooperation and the April Belgrade - Pristina agreement dialogue and the cooperation. transparency in the relationship and confi rmed the continuous eff ort between the four Municipalities of the NATO KFOR mission to and KFOR. maintain a safe and Speaking about the current security secure environment situation in the North, COM KFOR and freedom of remarked on the importance of the movement for all the role of the Kosovo Police as the fi rst people in Kosovo. responder and EULEX as the second At the same time responder. General FARINA “KFOR will continue to provide thanked the four a secure environment in the North Mayors for the and in the rest of Kosovo, ready constant eff orts, to intervene, as third responder, if made so far, by

6 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 MNBG-W

ARRIVAL OF MOLDOVAN FORCES TO KFOR On May 11, 1999, a new military unit for international peacekeeping missions called the “22nd Peacekeeping Battalion“ was established in the National Army of the Republic of Moldova.

At the same time, considering the need to carry out peacekeeping missions in the security area of the Republic of Moldova with the aim of maintaining stable and peaceful situation between the Moldovan population and Russian minorities along the river Nistru, the 22nd PK Battalion has been in charge of a sector of this region for a long period of time, starting in 2000. PICTURE: (2) MNBG-W Regardless of the internal peacekeeping missions in Moldova, the and combined exercises, whe- sisting of an infantry platoon, and unit also deployed few contin- re the Moldavian soldiers train EOD team and a staff officer, was gents to Iraq to take part in ope- all their capabilities in facing the deployed to the KFOR mission. ration “Iraqi Freedom”. In additi- possible incidents that may occur This is the first NATO mission in on, many officers of the battalion in a real crisis response operations which Republic of Moldova, as a have been participating as obser- scenario. Partner for Peace member, has ta- vers in the United Nations missi- Some of these training exercises ken part. ons in Africa. are as following: In the last two months in the Bal- Considering the necessity of - “Peace Shield” conducted kan area, the Moldovan contin- training troops according to the in Moldova; gent carried out joint patrols to- international standards, the unit - “Lancer Longbow” con- gether with the Italian contingent is annually engaged in a series of ducted in different countries star- as well as guaranteed the security national and international joint ting in 2006; in compound “Villaggio Italia” to- - “Sea Breeze” conducted in gether with Italian, Austrian and Ukraine starting in 2007; Slovenian colleagues belonging to - “Rapid Trident” conduc- MNBG-W. Meanwhile, the EOD ted in Ukraine starting in 2008; team conducted a practical exer- - “Saber Guardian” conduc- cise on detection, identification, ted in different countries starting transportation and disposal of in 2013; unexploded explosive devices. - ISAF troops Rotational In the future, the contingent will Exercises in Germany, at “Hohen- be involved in joint training with fels” training area, starting from international colleagues and will 2012. carry out other tasks along with The Unit has steadily trained to them as required. international standards and has More Together! been certified to NATO approved level. OF – 4 ROMAN CEBAN More than one and a half years later, as a result of the agreement signed between Republic of Mol- dova and Italy, on March 8 2014, a contingent of peacekeepers con-

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 7 SILVER SABRE EXERCISE SILVER SABER CRC EXERCISE: ON THE TRACK TO FULL OPERATIONAL CAPABILITY Following the rotation completion by some KFOR units during their Handover/Takeover periods in the beginning of 2014, J3 CONOPS TRAINING conducted a three day Instruction, Training and Exercise period including CRC courses and a synthesis exercise.

The exercise called “Silver Saber” 2014-1, occurred on 14, 15 and 16 May 2014 in Camp Vrelo, a Kosovo Police (KP) compound located 15 km from Pristina near the International Airport. This exercise was organized to familiarize KFOR units recently arrived in theatre with current CRC tactics, techniques and procedures, in order to improve their capability to relieve in place EULEX with KFOR acting as third responder according the “1st,2nd,3rd Responder Doctrine” where the Kosovo Police(KP) is

first responder, EULEX is second (2) PICTURE: DELLE CAVE Giovanni responder, and KFOR is third responder. leaders to present them updated embarking/disembarking, freedom The three day exercise began on CRC basic knowledge. of movement and EOD, fire phobia 14 May with a theoretical training The second exercise day, on 15 May, and psy-ops and, finally, a static bound to chief detachments, was dedicated to technical skills as display where each unit presented its company commanders and platoons Relief in Place with the KP, helicopter CRC assets and equipment. On 16 May, the main exercise took place which involved Multinational Battle Group East (MNBG-E), Multinational Battle Group West (MNBG-W), KFOR Tactical Reserve Manoeuvre Battalion (KTM), Multinational Specialized Unit (MSU), Joint Logistics Support Group (JLSG) and a Tactical Psyops Team (TPT). The over 700 participants and opposing forces including 110 policemen from the Kosovo Police/Operation Special Unit, with 100 vehicles and APCs, 9 helicopters (UH60, MI 171, Cougar) and 2 UAVs having been deployed to support the exercise. Six companies took part in the manoeuvre (Portuguese, Hungarian, Austrian, US, Slovenian, Kosovo), one Italian MSU platoon, one Ukrainian Freedom of Movement Detachment,

8 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 SILVER SABRE EXERCISE PICTURE: Vittorio SIMONELLI

one Danish Tactical Psyops Team After having received air and EOD On the contrary, it allowed better (TPT). HQ Support Group, ASDA, support, MNBGE units closed mutual comprehension, better IMP and Role 1 provided the the exercise by breaching a heavy procedures understanding, and was required support. roadblock. particularly realistic because that Based on a realistic situation By the end of the exercise, kind of situation might occur. From scenario divided into three phases, COMKFOR expressed his an operational point of view, this the exercise started with a heli-borne satisfaction to the troops and constitutes the main lesson learned: action conducted by MSU. After a emphasized the close cooperation KFOR CRC procedures allow relief in place, KP/MSU conducted between KFOR and KP. the units to be autonomous and phase 1, repelling demonstrators As EULEX participation had interchangeable, while maintaining before being bypassed by KTM been postponed for operational a high level of efficiency and task force which continued the reasons, KFOR continued the capability. COMKFOR stressed that manoeuvre, using UAV, FOM exercise by relieving in place the this successful exercise enhances detachment and being reinforced Kosovo Police. That particular cohesion which allows KFOR to act with another heli-borne company. situation did not affect the exercise. “More together”. The liaison, communication and relief in place of the various responders are a crucial part of the exercise.

Lieutenant-colonel BAUMSTARK Officer in Charge / J3 CONOPS PICTURE: DELLE CAVE Giovanni

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 9 CSMs ACTIVITIES CSMS FRAMEWORK OF ACTIVITIES-CAMP VILLAGGIO ITALIA VISIT AND ORIENTATION TOUR FOR NEW CSMS As part of the framework of activities for KFOR Sergeant Majors, a familiarization visit to Camp Villaggio Italia, home of Multi-National Battle Group West (MNBG-W), took place on 30 April 2014. PICTURE: Vittorio SIMONELLI (2) Vittorio PICTURE:

The meeting was organized by the opportunity to familiarize and give MNBG-W Area of Operational KFOR CSM in cooperation with the opportunity to many Senior Responsibility. 21 Senior CSMs from the MNBG-W CSM, Francesco CSMs to visit Camp Villaggio 16 different countries took part in VALLONE. Italia and to become familiar the activity. The agenda included The visit was an excellent with operations throughout the an operational briefing, a tour of the camp and a visit to the Decane Monastery. The visiting NCOs expressed their sincere appreciation to MNBG - W Commander Col. Antonio SGOBBA for hosting the meeting and his warm words of welcome and breifing on the activities done by MNBG - W and to CSM Francesco VALLONE, for the cooperation, commitment and the outstanding contribution made for this successful day. The familiarization visit was yet another successful part of the KFOR CSM framework of activities and it brought to the attention of many the commitment of KFOR MNBG-W.

10 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 CSMs ACTIVITIES

BATTLEFIELD CIRCULATION

On 19 May, in the framework of KFOR CSMs activities, a flight was organized to give the possibility to a few new CSMs to visit Gate 1, FOP 31, Camp Cabra and Camp Nothing Hill so as to give a brief explanation of the situation and the orientation and commitment of KFOR in the North of Kosovo. The CSM group was given the pleasure and opportunity to experience a flight on a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. Special thanks go to the U.S. Task Force Aviation that made it all possible and to MNBG-E CSM Bernardo SERNA for the coordination of the trip. It was indeed a very successful day; a late lunch in Camp Film City to end the activity was organized by COM KFOR CSM Francesco CASCELLA. I would like to state my support to this great family of KFOR as a team outgrows individual performance and learns team confidence; excellence becomes a reality, empowering and developing trust and underlining that teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision and the ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results. Sharing together, working together, succeeding together, working “More Together”, is definitely a success.

OR-9 CASCELLA PICTURE: Giovanni DELLE CAVE (2) PICTURE: DELLE CAVE Giovanni

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 11 RUN FOR PEACE AND TOLERANCE PRISTINA HALF MARATHON The Pristina Half Marathon took place on Sunday 11 May. This was the event’s fourteenth year and the weather was very warm and sunny and made conditions pleasant, if a little challenging, for the participants.

The event was run under the banner “Run for Peace and Tolerance” which promotes development in Kosovo through moving toward an integrated peaceful country,

The event had a number of races taking place simultaneously. There was a wheelchair race, a five- kilometre race and a large number of children also ran, making the event inclusive for all. It was a highly entertaining event for the spectators also; to see such a range of races for all people, all running to participate, some running to compete. The ages of participants ranged widely also, from the under tens to the over seventies. Approximately 1400 runners with approximately 200 participants fitness and a variation in their took part in this large event. The (including COM KFOR that routine, giving them the chance to President of Kosovo, HE Atifete completed the full distance in 2 participate in an important event in JAHJAGA opened the event and hours and 12 minutes) from Units the Kosovar sporting calendar, and ran the marathon. KFOR was across KFOR’s AOR. The marathon to contribute to Kosovo through strongly represented in the event was a focus for KFOR personnel’s taking part in something other than PICTURE: Hajrullahu Afrim

12 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 RUN FOR PEACE AND TOLERANCE PICTURE: Hajrullahu Afrim a purely military event. As can be seen, all ranks of KFOR were well represented in this enjoyable and familial event. PICTURE: Giovanni DELLE CAVE (3) PICTURE: DELLE CAVE Giovanni

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 13 COM KFOR MEETINGS

HRH GRAND DUKE HENRI DE LUXEMBURG VISITED KFOR HQ On 28 May HRH Grand Duke Henri DE LUXEMBURG visited KFOR HQ at Camp ‘Film City’ in Pristina.

Th e honor guard and COM KFOR, Major-General Salvatore FARINA, welcomed Th e Grand Duke that was accompanied by Th e Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Mr Etienne SCHNEIDER, a parliamentary delegation and other dignitaries among them Th e Ambassador in Kosovo, Mr Leon DELVAUX, and Th e Chief of Defense, General Mario DAUBENFELD. COM KFOR and Th e Grand Duke discussed the general security situation , the latest developments in Kosovo and in the Balkan area and the support to Belgrade-Pristina dialogue. NATO mission in Kosovo. COM KFOR expressed his appreciation for the contribution of Luxembourg, highlighting the professionalism and commitment of its troops. On completion of his visit, HRH Grand Duke Henri DE LUXEMBURG visited the Luxembourg contingent in Camp NOVO SELO and attended a ceremony to award the Luxembourg contingent with the NATO Medal. Maj. Gen. FARINA thanked Th e Grand Duke for the visit. PICTURE: Giovanni DELLE CAVE (2) PICTURE: DELLE CAVE Giovanni

His Royal Highness and the Luxembourg delegation were then briefed by the multinational staff about the present posture of KFOR and the condition based future plans. In addition General FARINA informed Th e Grand Duke about the involvement of KFOR as third responder to the upcoming general elections. HRH Grand Duke Henri DE LUXEMBURG confi rmed the full support of his country for the implementation of the agreement for the normalization of relations between Pristina and Belgrade and the support to KFOR eff orts

in order to ensure the accomplishment of the PICTURE: Vittorio SIMONELLI

14 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 KFOR CHRONICLE NEWS IN BRIEF

ITALIAN MINISTER OF THACI and DEFENCE AND ITA CHOD the Minister of Kosovo VISIT KFOR AND MEET S e c u r i t y KOSOVO AUTHORITIES Forces, Agim CEKU. With Minister Roberta PINOTTI, whom, she accompained by Admiral BINELLI signed a MANTELLI, was welcomed in “Statement KFOR HQ, Camp “Film City”, of Intent” in by Major General Salvatore which they FARINA on 06 May after which expressed she conducted an office call and a their briefing where the overall situation aspiration SIMONELLI (2) Vittorio PICTURE: in Kosovo was discussed with COM for mutually 1 where she attended a briefing by KFOR and his international staff. beneficial cooperation, based on COMKFOR discussed the the Commander of Multinational mutual interests for the security of Battle Group East. importance of the regular meetings the area. with the CHODs of the four At the end of her visit, Minister Minister PINOTTI also met the PINOTTI greeted members of countries bordering the KFOR Area Italian Ambassador in Kosovo, of Responsibility, namely Albania, the Italian contingent, where she visited the Italian Army Units emphasised the importance of FYROM, Montenegro and Serbia. in Camp “Villaggio Italia” and During the visit, the Italian Minister KFOR in the delicate context of the DECANE monastery where she met Balkans and the need to continue to of Defence met the senior political the Abbot of the DECANI orthodox representatives of Kosovo including accomplish the NATO mission for monastery, Father Sava JANJIC. She the Security and the progress of all the President, Atifete JAHAGA, also overflew Northern Kosovo and the Prime Minister, Hashim to visit the KFOR Camp at GATE the people in Kosovo.

GERMAN FEDERAL LEYEN MINISTER OF DEFENCE confirmed the VISITS KOSOVO full support of her country for the On May 15th, 2014, Major General implementation Salvatore FARINA (COM KFOR) of the agreement met with the German Federal for the Minister of Defence in Camp Film normalization of City in Pristina. relations between COM KFOR and the German Kosovo and Minister discussed the general Serbia and the security situation, the latest support to KFOR developments in Kosovo and efforts in order to Germany is one the most the Balkans and the support to ensure the accomplishment of the important NATO Contributing Belgrade-Pristina dialogue. NATO mission in Kosovo. Nation, with 712 soldiers deployed In addition, General FARINA Major General Salvatore FARINA in Kosovo. German troops are informed the minister about the thanked the Minister for the in HQ in Film City, Novo Selo, involvement of KFOR as third outstanding contribution of the Prizren, and Bondsteel. Maj. Gen. responder to the upcoming general German contingent to the KFOR FARINA thanked the Minister for elections. mission and underlined their great the visit. H.E. Mrs.Ursula VON DER professionalism.

Story: Lt Cdr Thomas Hobbins KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 15 JRD-S JRD-S SCHOOL PROJECTS In an effort to improve the relationship between NATO KFOR and the KOSOVO population, the Joint Regional Detachment – South (JRD-S) has taken on various projects to improve schools in the southern area of responsibility

five (5) desks and thirty (30) chairs were delivered to a Ferizaj Pre-School by the CIMIC staff. These donations and efforts were welcomed with open arms. The aim of this kind of projects is to provide a better learning environment for all current and future students. Projects like this also show that KFOR isn’t just here for security, but for the future education of Kosovo and its population.

OF-4 SMETANIUK SERHII

One of these projects was The school equipment was donated recently completed on Friday by JRD-S Commander on behalf April 25th, 2014 by delivering of KFOR in the presence of the one hundred (100) desks and VITINA/VITI Mayor, Director of three hundred (300) chairs to Education, teachers, students, and KUVENDI LEZHES HIGH other JRD-S members. Associates SCHOOL in Pozaranje, VITINA/ of the school expressed gratitude VITI Municipality. and appreciation for KFOR. However, KFOR was not done with The project cost totalled €6,800. its generosity. Later that afternoon, PICTURE: JRD-S (3)

16 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 MNBG-E

KFOR-18 MEMBERS CELEBRATE POLISH CONSTITUTION DAY

CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo—May 3 was a cloudy Saturday morning, but nearly 50 people gathered to run the Polish Constitution’s Day 5K Race at Camp Bondsteel to commemorate and celebrate Poland’s Constitution Day. A Constitution Day run has been a Polish tradition since 1990 and it is very common in Poland for everyone to take part in a run. PICTURE: MNGB-E (2)

This year’s race, held at Camp provided to the top three par- is to finish the Skopje Marathon Bondsteel, began at 7 a.m. at ticipants in each category. The in 3 hours and 20 minutes,” said the Polish compound. The par- fastest female runner was 1st Lt. Kwapisz at the finish line. ticipants were in good humor Christine Sutton, who finished However everyone who reached when Polish National Con- the race at 22:40 minutes, aver- the finish line was a winner and tingent Commander Lt. Col. aging just over a 4.4 minute ki- got a t-shirt, then everyone Sawczuk began the race, and lometer. gathered and had a group com- even though some participants Second place was awarded to memorative photograph. were running just for the fun, 2nd Lt. Sylwia Klimkiewicz with or to win a T-shirt, the pace of a time of 23:00; and third was The event was organized to ce- the race was very fast—and on Maj. Nancy Clauss with a time of lebrate the Polish Constitution unfamiliar ground, as the race 23:45. which was established in May followed a different route from The fastest male runner Pfc. 3rd, 1791. past races. Artur Kwapisz, who finished Steep hills were included in this with 19:29, averaging just over Lt. Cmdr Kris GRUNERT race and at the first hill, leaders a 3.8 minute kilometer. Second in the race were Col. Evan Trink- was Sgt. 1st Class Maciej Szcze- le, Maj. Christopher Browning panowski with a time of 19:58, and Cpt. Maciej Rakowski, batt- and third place was Master Sgt. ling through the sweat and de- Siejwa Kazimierz with a time of termination on the track with all 20:10. the other runners—all for a good cause—fun! “I am so happy, winning is al- There was a good showing of ways very nice. I love challenging runners. There were 2 categories myself and now I am aiming to (male and female), with medals the Skopje marathon. My goal

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 17 PAO INFORMATION, MEDIA AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE (PAO) “That’s the beauty of argument, if you argue correctly, you’re never wrong”

In recent years , the development military, field Public Affairs Office ensure that information provided of technology has made it possible plays a key role in contingency and is consistent, complementary and to exchange information faster and deployed operations. The typical coordinated. PAOs work mindful to a wider audience, largely due to Public Affairs Office (military) is of multinational sensitivities and the variety of resources available led by an officer who is in charge of respectful of the local and regional for exchange of all kinds of data. planning, executing and evaluating environment. the effectiveness of public affairs Television, newspapers, radio and programs and provides public Public Affairs Officers are especially internet have developed affair advice, counsel and support responsible for preparing a kind of “mass media culture”, for commanders and senior staff information on unit participation accessible to everyone at all times. members. in military operations, world events, The news is transmitted in real time and environmental matters through via photos, videos, social networks news releases, special activities, (Facebook, twitter, google+, etc.) photographs, radio and television, altering the response time of the and other informational material. Press Offices. They also review materials such as speeches, news articles, and radio Most of us read the news first on and television shows for security Facebook, in real time, rather than policy review and integration with on the newspapers. However, to the objectives of the military, and have a lot of information does not determine appropriate topics. guarantee being informed. They produce speeches and act as ghost writers for commanders, The information does not consist often completely developing a of a cluster of indistinct data. commander’s public persona. The information, as such, must Additionally, Public Affairs Officers be actually useful and usable oversee the production of base information to those who receive The Public Affairs Office is newspapers, magazines, and internal it, a sort of added value to the data, responsible for developing a working information produced by enlisted which in itself is of no use without relationship with reporters and other Public Affairs specialists which that added information. When it media representatives, maintaining includes coordinating media visits comes to information, one must a robust community relations (as required) and writing stories to always take account of the context program, keeping contact with the share with fellow deployed personnel to which the data relates, and only government agencies, international as well as audiences back home, on the basis of this framework it is organizations, and keeping internal both military and civilian. The office possible to decode them and give and external audiences informed on tracks and responds to incoming them a special meaning. issues that may affect them. “In this media queries, develops strategies Who, what, where, when and why regard it is very important to keep in for effective information about are the basis of correct and precise mind that a journalist could be an military activities, and approves information. accomplice, a “tool” used to release advertisements for exhibitions and our master message, but he is not public programs and outside media Generally Public Affairs Office a friend. Everything you say to a releases by agencies and donors. is a term for the formal branches journalist could be published.” whose purpose is to deal with the Deputy Chief PAO HQ KFOR media and community issues. The Known as “PAO’s” for short, they OF-3 Massimiliano RIZZO term is also used for numerous are expected to provide accurate Maj. ITA-A media relations offices. In the information in a timely manner, to

18 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 LEGAD LEGAL FRAMEWORK OF THE DELIMITATION OF THE KFOR MISSION KFOR operates under the mandate outlined in UNSCR 1244, based on Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which includes, among other things, that the responsibilities of the international security presence is to establish, to contribute, and to maintain a Safe and Secure Environment (SASE) for the benefit of civilian population and the local security institutions.

The meaning of Safe and Secure of the Eulex mission with its own tional organisations responsible Environment has no legal defini- specific mandate and Kosovo´s for those tasks. KFOR must also tion, but the lawyer´s task is to in- Unilateral Declaration of Indepen- operate in an environment where terpret and explain the law, which dence, which was not foreseen since the UN-mandate did not anticipa- in this case is international law. KFOR´s initial involvement and te Kosovo´s unilateral declaration This phrase would “prima facie” has impacted on the role of KFOR. of independence in February 2008. be labelled “police work” rather The European Rule of Law Mission This is legally significant, and can- than referred to as usual activities not be dismissed as “ just seman- managed by armed forces. tics” . For KFOR, NATO´s view The legal interpretation of the term on the independence of Kosovo is “Safe and Secure environment” is legally significant. KFOR can con- linked, of course, to the UN ap- duct monitoring along the ABL, for proach and therefore in the context the purpose of SASE. of the Resolution, focused on the Maintaining SASE on the borders civilian population and IOS/NGOs. and the ABL has been consistent- Nevertheless we have to think of the ly focused on inspections, to stop terms of the UNSCR in relation to weapons, ammunition and related the current context, taking into ac- material, but not normal commer- count the most updated high level ce or the smuggling of contraband, NATO documents and the evolved as that is viewed as a law enforce- situation in Kosovo 15 years after ment function, which is outside of the UN Resolution adoption. in Kosovo was initiated in 2008 to KFOR´s current mandate. The De- The secure environment then is monitor, mentor and advise Koso- claration of Independance and all that one is characterized by an end vo authorities in the rule of law area relevant Kosovo legal acts, like the to large scale fighting, an adequate commonly referred to as Security Kosovo Constitution, show accep- level of public order and where the Sector Reform (SSR), specifically tance of the international military population has physical and terri- in the police, judiciary, and custom presence in Kosovo. These are clear torial security. The aim of KFOR is areas, under the general framework and coherent legal texts which ful- to maintain a “secure envinroment” of UN 1244. ly guarantee that “Institutions in adequate for the continued conso- KFOR´s action must be syn- Kosovo” are bound to respect the lidation of peace and stability, until chronized with Eulex, considering presence of International Orga- the institutions can take responsibi- KFOR´s 3 rd responder role step- nitations. Therefore, even though lity for this task. ping for direct action only after Ko- KFOR operates with new local or- However the UN-mandate has sovo Police (KP) and Eulex. Besi- ganisations in a changed environ- never been modified since it was des KFOR acting as 3rd responder, ment, KFORs operations in Kosovo adopted in 1999, and altough there a further limitation to the KFOR are mutually supported by local and are no subsequent UN-Resolutions, mandate is that law enforcement international legislation, ensuring there have been some significant activities are outside the mandate cooperation, and allowing all par- changes through the years and currently given by NAC but KFOR ties to achieve “More Together” KFOR continues to operate to give does provide within its mandate for Kosovo. stability and security in its AOR means and capabilities in the con- CHIEF LEGAD and has altered to adapt to the de- text of SASE and freedom of mo- HQ KFOR velopment of Kosovar institutions. vement (FOM) in Kosovo for local OF-5 Bruno ARPAIA This is coupled with the initiation security institutions and interna- Col. ITA-A

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 19 CANADIAN CHARITY

Commander KFOR XVIII Major General Salvatore Farina, CANADIAN CONTINGENT Italian Army As we continue to strive to aid the people of Kosovo, the Cana- Chief Public Affairs Office & dian Contingent of Operation KOBOLD took to heart the dual KFOR Spokesman Colonel Angelo Morcella, role that exists for all UN/NATO missions: the military assis- Italian Army tance under the official umbrella of the parent organization, and the humanitarian aspect provided at the personal level by the Chief Internal Information & members of any deployed operation. Editor KFOR Chronicle Lieutenant Commander Thomas Hobbins, Irish Defence Forces [email protected] Photographer & Design Mr. Afrim Hajrullahu [email protected]

Cover Photo Afrim Hajrullahu 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, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, During the course of our tour, having participated quite vocally Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Luxem- bourg, Netherlands, Norway, Po- Task Force Pristina Roto 9 iden- in many of the discussions for land, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, tified a need with the disadvan- and against the moustache, mo- Turkey, United Kingdom, United taged women and children in bilized their wood shop and built States. Pristina, Kosovo, and wished to a donation box. support the Pristina Centre of For a month, I kept the donation Non-NATO Nations within Rehabilitation for Women and box close at hand, lending it out KFOR Armenia, Austria, Finland, Ireland, Children, a not for profit orga- to those who wanted to gather Moldova, Sweden, Switzerland, nization assisting women and votes/donations. KFOR showed Ukraine. their children. This centre had their compassion and expressed previously been supported by their opinion in one of the many Roto 7 and the members of Roto elections (although not observed The KFOR Chronicle is produced 9 wanted to raise money to help. by OSCE) in Kosovo and raised and fully funded by HQ KFOR. It is published for KFOR soldiers in the As the only member in Camp over 1000 Euro for the Centre area of responsibility. The contents Film City with an uncommon sty- and by a very large margin, in are not necessarily the official views le of moustache, I had generated a favour of keeping the mousta- of, or endorsed by, the coalition large amount of discussion as to che. As a consolation prize, and governments’ defence departments. whether or not it suited me and on advice of my personal chain Editorial content is edited, prepared the modern man. Many debates of command at home in Canada, and provided by the Internal Infor- mation Section of HQ KFOR’s Pub- were had and opinions expressed. for those who voted to shave my lic Affairs Office (PAO) in Pristina, At one point a vote was sugges- moustache, I shaved my head af- Kosovo. PAO HQ KFOR reserves ted, and through discussions and ter the counting of the votes/do- the right to edit content to conform friendly ribbing, the decision to nations. to style and space requirements. take a vote in the form of dona- Articles run on a space-available tions to the Centre was to be ta- Major Steven Boychyn basis. ken. The Swiss Engineer Platoon,

20 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 PROFILES

MILITARY EDUCATION: I started my military career in the Italian Army in 1994 and after 3 years I joined the CARABINIERI Corp. After 3 years of courses (1 year at the CARABINIERI SCHOOL of Rome and 2 years at the WARRANT OFFICERS school of Florence) I was assi- gned to the CARABINIERI Station of Agliana (a small town near Pistoia - in Tuscany) where I still hold the task of Deputy Chief

ABOUT THE MISSION: This is my third mission abroad after one in Lebanon (2009 – as member of the Special Investigation Section) and one in Iraq (2011 – as trainer for the Iraqi Police). Currently I hold the position of Liaison Officer for the MSU at the KFOR HQs; this is a very interesting experience that is giving me the opportunity to grow professionally and to make new friendship with colleagues from different countries. Name: Di Genua Ciro Rank: OR-9 FAMILY REACTIONS: I’m married since 2001 and at the moment my wife and I have 2 children aged 11 (girl) and 7 years (boy). Nationality: Italy Though it can be hard being away from them so long, they support me and KFOR Unit: MSU my military service day by day!

HOBBIES: I am passionate about vintage motorbikes; I like to restore them by myself (especially the VESPA by PIAGGIO) and use the oldest ones in rallies and gatherings with my family.

MILITARY EDUCATION: I joined the Hellenic Military Academy in 1997 and Graduated in 2001. I addition to my military studies there I also covered a number of academic subjects including English. I graduated with honours and was commissioned as 2nd Lt into the Artillery Corps. Since graduation I have completed other artillery courses and have done specialist courses in anti-aircraft and Field artillery weapons in the Greek Army. I have also done parachuting, advanced infantry and special tactical courses. ABOUT THE MISSION: I am the Deputy Commander of the Guards. It is a privilege for me to come here and to work in such a varied multinational environment. We are gaining excellent experience through our training here and from working and learning with other nationalities and seeing how other forces operate. Prior to coming here we did pre-deploy- Name: Gavalekas Fotios ment tactical training. Rank: OF-2 FAMILY REACTION: I am married with two sons, one six years old and Nationality: Greek the other three years old. It is my first time on a NATO mission since having children but I have daily contact with skype and that helps us get over KFOR Unit: Greek Guard CFC the absence. I had advance notice of the mission but regardless, my wife was always aware that foreign deployment and time away from home is part of a military career and she was prepared for it. My end of tour will be in September and I look forward to seeing my family again. HOBBIES: I hunt and fish. I also enjoy swimming, scuba diving and snor- kelling, and mountain climbing and hiking. Generally I enjoy all outdoor pursuit activities.

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 21 SUDOKU

slightly medium

difficult very difficult

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

The task is to fill 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

22 KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 PICTURE OF THE MONTH slightly medium

diffi cult very diffi cult

PICTURE OF THE MONTH May 2014 Sunday morning May 2014 downtown Pristina Equipment used: Smartphone

Contribute to the Fabrizio RUSSO OF-4 ITA/A KFORChronicle! J2 CHIEF COLLECTION Just send your photos to [email protected] by the 25th of the month explaining where you took the pho- to and what equipment you used. We will then select one of the submitted images and publish it in the next edition of the Chronicle.

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

Sincerely The Chronicle Team

KFOR CHRONICLE 05/2014 23 www.nato.int/kfor