KFOR CHRONICLE THE MAGAZINE FOR KFOR PEOPLE June 2020 K9 MILITARY WORKING DOGS OUR 21ST ANNIVERSARY # NATO 2030 CONTENT You can imagine the Aroma’s coming from this dumpster truck. Still German Shepherd Chara remains totally focused on the task of detecting explosive material under the watchful eye and direction of her dog handler OR-4 Denis Ivanov from the Ukrainian Army. OUR 21ST ANNIVERSARY Two Commemorations MG Michele Risi p.3 Kosovo; Then and Now Col Mario Renna p. 4 STORY OF THE MONTH K9 Military Working Dogs Comdt. Brian Lynch p.6 FROM THE FIELD Support Social Services RC-E PAO Staff p.10 Polish on Patrol p.10 Patrolling Pec Capt. Emanuele Colini p.11 Watch and Shoot p.11 SNAPSHOTS KFOR’s Activities in Pictures KFOR PAO Staff P.12 TROOPS OF KFOR Train Hard Lt. Beata Sarkany p.15 KFOR NEWS Chief of Staff – Transfer of Authority KFOR PAO Staff p.17 High level meetings & more p.18 #NATO 2030 p.19 An Important International Day Maj. Dr. Elisabeth Schleicher p.21 PROFILES Austria, Greece, Slovenia p.22 PHOTO OF THE MONTH ‘Brothers & Sisters in Arms’ Capt. Nadine Wiley De Moura p.23

2 OUR 21ST ANNIVERSARY “Dear KFOR Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines, More NATO and other contributing countries joined Carabinieri, Civilian Personnel. We gather here today KFOR at a later stage, some left after years of to commemorate the day in which at dawn of 21 service. I want to thank all those whose engagements years ago our senior colleagues touched the Kosovo contributed to making KFOR the most trusted soil. It was a very challenging expedition. Some of you international presence in Kosovo. Moreover, I want might have heard the stories from the veterans of ’99. to praise the many national staff that assisted us Most of the troops moved from Skopje and Kumanovo; loyally and professionally in a variety of logistics. Our Germans, Emiratis, Jordanians and Moroccans thought goes as well to all those who lost their life through Kukes, in Albania, others joined from Bosnia in the cause of peace. Lest we forget, as it is marked Hercegovina. Ten of thousands uniformed personnel in the memorial stone outside of the HQs entrance. took their position on time, as scheduled by the high The mission, as you know, is not over. We should keep commands in Naples and Brussels, under the superb the spirit, the freshness and the enthusiasm of our leadership of Lt-Gen Sir Michael Jackson, from the predecessors. We should stand united for a better UK Army, assisted by five sector commanding generals: Kosovo. John Craddock (US), Bruno Cuche (FR), Mauro Del God bless KFOR, God bless NATO!” Vecchio (IT), Bill Rollo (UK), Fritz von Korff (GER). But I cannot avoid mentioning the chief architect Major General Michele Risi COM KFOR of the entire operation, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, US General Wesley Clark. It was an exemplary deployment, something that became This solemn ceremony marked the 21st anniversary a case study for unit commanders, strategists and of KFOR, where we remembered our fallen com- historians. As I said, it was an extremely demanding rades. Presided over by Commander KFOR Major undertaking. Thanks to the professional behavior of General Risi, his speech above paid tribute to those KFOR soldiers the difficulties were overcome. The soldiers who paid the ultimate price in the cause of , presence of many UXO s rendered the terrain very peace in Kosovo. dangerous, our EOD teams worked round the clock The following day MG Risi gathered with Right to clear paths and buildings. KFOR troops traveled Honorable Speaker Vjosa Osmani and many other non-stop up to three days in order to reach their AOR members of parliament along with members of the Today I want to pay tribute to serviceman and women Diplomatic Corps at Nënë Theresa St. in Pristina, to from Argentina, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Canada, once again commemorate all those who lost their Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, lives. “Our thoughts and gratitude goes also to the inter- Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, national partners who assisted and integrated our overall Jordan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Morocco, Netherlands, mission: I want to remember the late Sergio Vieira de Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Slovak Republic, Mello along with Dr Bernard Kouchner of UNMIK, OSCE Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, Ambassador Daan Everts and UNHCR Envoy Dennis United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States McNamara. My heart goes out as well to all those who who were the first to serve under our flag. lost their life in the cause of peace”.

3 KOSOVO THEN AND NOW ommemorations are difficult. have lost their lives to keep the stability was not easy. In recent CWe delve into a past that is peace, so this day is also dedicated years, in some cases Kosovo has painful, full of hurt and wrongs to their commemoration. The experienced tensions. Today the and sacrifice. ’Lest we forget’ are KFOR mission mandated by situation is stable. This is largely the three simple words inscribed the United Nations remains the result of the work done by on the monument stone outside unchanged. NATO also continues security organizations in Kosovo, KFOR Headquarters, reminding us- to resolutely support dialogue which have undergone impressive telling us- we must never forget. between Belgrade and Pristina, as development, with the support But commemorations are also an the only lasting political solution to of KFOR and other international opportunity to reflect on where the ongoing issues; this is essential community actors. Thanks to we are now, and where we would for local security and more broadly the overall improvement of the like to be. The Kosovo of today is for the stability of the Western situation, KFOR was able to reduce a much different Kosovo to the Balkans region. So, in general, the the number of troops from 55,000 one KFOR entered into 21 years NATO-led KFOR mission remains in 1999 to just over 3,400 today. ago, and KFOR has, and continues a necessary factor of stability Comparing the challenges we to play an important role in that for Kosovo’s future and regional face today, with the challenges of change. security. our predecessors, MG Risi said In a wide ranging interview Noting the difficult road to stability, undoubtedly, the biggest and most following the commemorations, MG Risi continued, in 1999 KFOR complex challenge has been the MG Risi reflected on the Kosovo was faced with a difficult security outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, of then and now; Twenty-one environment in Kosovo. Tens of which has posed a threat to years ago, with the arrival of the thousands of soldiers entered in the health of all communities in first troops of the NATO-led the devastated Kosovo, inhabited Kosovo and has put Kosovo’s KFOR mission, Kosovo entered a by a frightened population. Many economy in social strain. All of new period of peace and stability. issues were present at the time, our efforts have been supported This anniversary represents an including - among other things by the following information- opportunity to reflect on the many - the threat of armed conflict based principle: to ensure that a significant achievements that have and unexploded ordnances, the health crisis does not turn into a been made to date, thanks to the lack of water and electricity, security crisis. KFOR’s ability to protection and security, where and numerous restrictions on conduct operations every day has along with freedom of movement freedom of movement. Within not weakened. Otherwise, our since 1999, thousands of KFOR a short period of time, KFOR, troops have continued patrols men and women have offered it all in close cooperation with other and liaison and monitoring teams to citizens of Kosovo, regardless international organizations, have continued to carry out their of ethnicity, under the mandate of restores order and security, activities, taking all preventive UN Security Council Resolution thus making an extremely great measures in accordance with 1244. This date is an opportunity contribution to the progressive the guidelines of the World - also more important, to look to return to normalcy of the daily Health Organization. COM the future. Some KFOR soldiers life of Kosovars. The road to KFOR engaged with all relevant

4 ministerial authorities to promote staff, where we have identified any final mutual agreement, which cooperation, for the benefit of all some positive cases. All of them would contribute to the region communities. were immediately treated and in reaching peace, stability and KFOR has supported the response evacuated. Currently we have no sustainability”. KFOR will continue to COVID-19 pandemics in a reported cases, but we insist on its mission to maintain safe and variety of ways, including donating its prevention, as the virus has secure environment and freedom significant amounts of personal not been defeated and we still of movement for as long as needed, protective equipment - in have to fight it. We must remain and we fully support EU facilitated coordination with local charities vigilant. Therefore, KFOR troops Belgrade-Prishtina dialogue. This is and the Red Cross of Kosovo. We are expected to deliver personal key for regional peace and stability. have also facilitated the delivery of protective equipment financed There will be no real perspective aid to many Kosovo municipalities, by NATO, to medical facilities in for a better future in Balkans which has been provided by allied various municipalities in Kosovo. for Serbs or Albanians without countries contributing troops COM KFOR acknowledged some full respect of human rights and to KFOR, such as Austria, Italy, security challenges still remain. He the rights of all communities. Poland and the United States. said, Kosovo has achieved a lot in Constructive dialogue is key for COM KFOR also acknowledged recent years as regards security, regional stability. the actions of the Government but some challenges remain, KFOR’s mission remains unchanged of Kosovo, and the excellent including the impact of organized while it remains an indispensable level of co-operation between crime, illegal economic activities stabilization factor for Kosovo’s KFOR and Kosovo Institutions. and harmful rhetoric, which is future and for regional security. Kosovo responded quickly to the specifically related to ethnicity. KFOR remains a strong, credible pandemic and managed to limit Unemployment is also a worrying and flexible force. It trains the spread of coronavirus. KFOR issue, especially after the outbreak regularly to maintain efficiency and has monitored the situation on of COVID-19. KFOR is fully aware credibility in deterrence. “I firmly the ground in close coordination of these instability factors and believe that a stable situation from with local health institutions. monitors them closely, exchanging the perspective of security is the We have established excellent information with all security necessary condition for dialogue cooperation with them and partners, and being on alert for an and cooperation. KFOR will keep through this we have been able to immediate preventive response. giving its contribution to bridge the assess the security implications Looking towards the future and situation towards a brighter future for the population of Kosovo the opportunities that exist, for the youngest generations of and for the KFOR community, as especially the renewed impetus Kosovo”, stated General Risi. well as to address them. We are regarding dialogue, MG Risi said, still practicing social distance in “NATO supports the EU-facilitated our bases and are implementing dialogue between Belgrade and prudent measures to protect Pristina to reach a lasting solution the army and the citizens of for open issues. We support all Col. Mario Renna Kosovo. We have examined our efforts in this way and welcome Chief Public Affairs Officer

5 STORY OF THE MONTH

K9 MILITARY WORKING DOGS “When the Man waked up he said, deployments to Eastern Ukraine. nose investigating every nook and ‘What is Wild Dog doing here?’ And the In 2019, Denis and Chara were cranny of the damaged vehicle Woman said, ‘His name is not Wild Dog any more, but the First Friend, because selected after successfully which could contain an Improvised he will be our friend for always and passing the selection for the Explosive Device. Dogs have about always and always.‘” mine detecting team for the 300 million receptors in their Rudyard Kipling (The Jungle Book) KFOR peacekeeping mission in noses; humans have about six ince childhood I have almost Kosovo. Currently they are part million. We may get the beautiful Salways had a dog by my side. of the JLSG Family employed aroma of a home cooked curry Always Labradors. I confess I have within the Explosive Ordnance or stew. Well a dog can detect shed as many tears at their passing Disposal Section.In KFOR Denis and distinguish between each and as I have for relatives and friends. and Chara are an essential part every ingredient in that curry or The quote at the top of the page of the EOD team responsible for stew. Their brains are 40 times from Rudyard Kipling captures the conducting the task of inspecting greater than ours in regard to total devotion and loyalty that a the helicopter landing sites within scent. Obeying hand signals dog can give its owner. It is this Kosovo. As well as that, they are from Denis, Chara quickly but devotion and loyalty that man has a vital component of the Freedom diligently inspects the obstacle. If harnessed for our benefit, and of Movement Detachment’s EOD explosive material is present she nowhere is that more evident element, and are responsible can indicate this to Denis. On than in Military Dogs. Today, I had to check different places and this occasion she is happy there the privilege of joining German environments.Chara’s special is no explosive there. If Chara Shepherd Chara and her handler training allows the KFOR EOD is happy, we are all happy. Denis Denis on a field training exercise in element to more rapidly discover withdraws her, and it is now clear the environs of Camp Novo Selo. explosive materials, making the for the bulldozer to move forward Chara was born in the Poltava environment safer for the other and clear the obstacle, and the Region of Ukraine in 2014, and members of her team and all of troops can advance. Watching at the tender age of 3 months KFOR to carry out their mission Denis and Chara work together began her military career. OR-4 essential tasks.I encountered Denis is a joy, and I confess I am a little Denis Ivanov, Chara’s handler, is and Chara on a cold blustery day jealous. The bond between dog and somewhat older. He started his in late May in Camp Novo Selo. As handler is obvious. I know dogs. career in the Ukrainian Military part of the exercise Chara had to I know when I see an unhappy, in 2015, as a senior dog handler clear the route ahead ensuring the unhealthy, lethargic reluctant dog. of service dogs in the engineering obstacles were clear of explosive Chara, is the opposite of that. military compound. After signing a material before troops could She is bounding with energy and contract, Denis was paired with his proceed. All eyes were on Denis enthusiasm, and happiness. Chara first service dog Chara, and they and Chara. The teamwork they isn’t ‘working’. She is having the have been together ever since.. displayed was outstanding. Chara time of her life while keeping us all In 2016 they shared operational went forward on command, her safer.

6 Chara is steady and ready to be launched by her handler OR-4 Denis Ivanov. Control and communication between handler and dog is vital. Chara is released only when Denis is ready, and once released stays under control by voice or hand signals.

Absolute concentration from Chara as she has ‘fixed’ what she was looking for. Just for the purpose of exercise Denis is close by. In real life he could be much further back and recall Chara. From the ‘fix’ Denis could direct the EOD Robot crew to the exact location to determine how best to make any IED safe.

It may look like fun, - and it is, but agility courses like this have much more than fun in mind. MWD’s must be confident, even fearless. They must also obey instructions from the handler. There is no room for debate. The handler tells the dog where to go and she goes.

Operating in confined spaces. The MWD must obey and trust the handler. From an early age they are carefully introduced to heights and ledges, escalators, helicopters, gunfire, confined spaces, harnesses, crowds..you name it.

7 FROM DISTANT PAST TO PRESENT DAY- WAR DOGS ogs have gone to war alongside man for must be dealt with in the field in order to keep the Dcenturies. Attila the Hun used Dogs in his dog operational. campaigns. In the Seven Years war Russian dogs It is quite remarkable given the huge technological were used by Fredrick the Great as messengers. In advances we have made, that still, nothing can surpass World War 1 and 2 dogs were used extensively. In the nose of a dog in detecting the presence of the post 9/11 world most military and police forces explosives, or drugs or weapons or whatever else have canine units. The demand for canines suitable he is trained to detect. There have even been trials for military service has gone through the roof, so where dogs are being trained to detect cancer and much so that demand almost exceeds supply. There other diseases in humans. Of course their natural are thousands of Military Working Dogs (MWD’s) in abilities would all be wasted if not for their likability service throughout the world. Given the increasing and trainability. demand, and limited supply, dogs trained to such No other animal on the planet has won such a special a high standard can fetch tens of thousands of place in the hearts of humans. It is not uncommon dollars on the open market. With a fully trained for soldiers to adopt or inherit a dog while serving military working dog costing so much, and being a overseas on an outpost. Not so much as a force force multiplier, significant resources are put into protection measure, but just for company and morale. veterinary care. Exact figures for MWD deaths and Dogs are even used as therapy for veteran soldiers. causes of death are hard to come by, but it is known Kindness towards a dog is rewarded in unquestioning that they have been specifically targeted in combat loyalty and devotion. The bond that can develop environments. MWD’s do generally operate in harsh between man and dog is remarkable, nowhere is this environments. Even non-life threatening injuries like more evident than between military dog handler and pulled muscles or tendons can occur regularly and Military Working dog.

A wounded soldier is found by a rescue dog who alerts the Modern MWD’s are used for a wide variety of tasks, and nurse and ambulancemen of their whereabouts. Coloured the selection and training processes they and their handlers chromolithograph by E.A. Holloway, 1904. undergo are much more structured than in the past.

8 s Chara and Denis prepared Bondsteel, I asked the 27 year training James had to spend time in Ato leave Kosovo at the end old from Alabama had he ever a veterinary practice, and training of their tour of duty, replaced of owned a dog before that. ‘No’ he in this area continues monthly. “We course by another MWD and replied. I told him I am confident have a veterinary team here, but I handler, I took the opportunity to with dogs, but even I am a bit have to be able to administer first aid visit Camp Bondsteel and the US wary around German Shepherds to Yoda in an emergency”. Army Canine Unit. Before 2013 or Belgian Malinois. I asked him Once again, I am only amazed all US military dog handlers had was he nervous when he started. at the team work on display been serving in the military and With a laugh he admitted that at between dog and handler. James, volunteered to become a dog the start he was terrified. But that the accidental dog handler, is handler. After 2013 it was possible was then and this is now. Sergeant delighted fate or destiny, dropped to join the military from civilian James Bass has been with his this line of work in his lap. “I love life and select canine handler canine Yoda, a German Shepherd/ it and I am happy to continue in this as a choice, just like driver or Belgian Malinois mix for three area. We are a team. We have built machine gunner etc. When James years. Yoda specializes in ‘off leash an unconditional bond together”. In Bass went to join the army in work’ and James maintains control down time, James looks after Yoda, February 2015 he wanted to be a by voice and/or hand signals. He is like a normal dog owner, taking Military Policeman. However, the also what you might call a multi- him for walks, playing games and recruiting sergeant told him we purpose dog; that is he is trained generally looking after him. “ I am are not recruiting for the MP’s at in IED Detection and protection. responsible for Yoda, I have to look the moment, why don’t you join Denis and Yoda can be tasked to after him, and he looks after me”. as a dog handler? James shrugged search vehicles at the entrance to his shoulders and said ok. As we Camp Bondsteel or anywhere else Comdt. Brian Lynch, spoke in the environs of Camp that they are needed. As part of his OF-3 IRL

9 FROM THE FIELD

POLISH ON PATROL he Polish Military Contingent operating with airborne operations. Their renowned flexibility fits TKFOR conducts a wide spectrum of activities in perfectly into the daily activities and operations of its area of responsibility, which ranges from Strpce in KFOR, whose activities have not been undermined the south to Mitrovica in the north. Polish Soldiers by Covid-19. Poland is also manning the Liaison and are part of the US-led Regional Command East and Monitoring Team based in Strepce that played a major form one of the largest contingents in KFOR. Units role in the delivery of personal protection equipment have experienced deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan to the local medical center, as part of an overall by and display a high level of readiness and flexibility. the President of Poland to the Ministry of Health of In their last days of duty, the men and women of Kosovo that were transported with a C-295M Casa the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade performed patrols transport aircraft of the Polish Air Force. The Polish as usual and also provided a contribution to the team of KFOR easily liaised with Strepce’s community response to Covid-19 by the Health Institutions in thanks to the long standing cooperation established Kosovo. The 25th Air Cavalry Brigade is an airmobile with the southern municipality, which features a high element of the quick reaction force of the Polish degree of coexistence as it is inhabited by 9,000 Armed Forces, and is trained for both air assault and Kosovo Serbs and 4,600 Kosovo Albanians.

SUPPORTING SOCIAL SERVICES FOR Regional Command East delivered personal that will allow her personnel to perform their duties Kcomputers, telephones and office furniture more efficiently, to the benefit of local communities. worth 4,000 Euro to the Department of health and Zvecan’s Department of health and social welfare social welfare in the Municipality of Zvecan, a city actually addresses a wide range of tasks, for example, with a population of 17,000 in Northern Kosovo.The performing social welfare actions, facilitating the project was implemented by KFOR’s Civil-Military access to primary health care, and assessing the needs Cooperation branch in the framework of the support for social assistance. provided Kosovo-wide to institutions, communities They also monitor the social situation with a special and citizens regardless of ethnicity. focus on women, children and elderly people, Svetlana Mihajlovic, who leads the Department, cooperating with humanitarian and other professional thanked KFOR’s representatives for the support institutions.

10 WATCH AND SHOOT talian soldiers of RC-W led by Lieutenant Colonel the target, firing was conducted using the Beretta IAlessandro Stanca conducted live fire drills on the 92FS pistol, ideal to neutralise the threat at short “Voloire” shooting range, near their base of Villaggio distances. Italia. The aim? Improve the shooting skills of the At the end of the day, Captain Francesco Bondì and individual soldier, and, maximize the training results in his company of soldiers return to base, clean their terms of tactics, interoperability, and combat power. weapons, and enjoy a few hours of well-deserved rest. The firing action was initiated by the riflemen of The Italian Army has been part of the NATO mission the 17th “Sforzesca” anti-aircraft artillery regiment in Kosovo for 21 years - since the first KFOR troops with the use of the Beretta ARX160 automatic rifle. set foot in Kosovo on 12 June 1999. They continue to The ARX160 can be fitted with a single-shot 40mm guarantee a safe and secure environment and freedom grenade launcher. As the soldiers advanced close to of movement for all communities in Kosovo.

PATROLLING IN PEC lovenian soldiers from the 74th Infantry Regiment force (QRF) wherever it is needed. Moreover, the Sof 72nd Brigade are currently deployed as Slovenian guys are also deployed in CVI to ensure part of the Manoeuvre Battalion based in Camp security around the camp. The company Commander Villaggio Italia. The Slovenian Company (Sierra Coy) Lieutenant Primoz Bantan said that “to fulfill the is made up of three platoons and a headquarters operational capability it is necessary to enhance at home element which supports the coy operations; and an intensive pre-deployment training ”. “KFOR”- he said- is fully integrated with the other multinational “is a great opportunity for me and my soldiers to operate parts composed of Italian, Moldavian and Austrian overseas, our task here is to contribute to maintain a peacekeepers. On a daily basis they patrol their area safe and secure environment and to ensure freedom of of responsibility, perform synchronized patrols in movement to all the citizens; as a company Commander I coordination with the Kosovo Police (KP) and ensure am proud to be able to dedicate the Slovenian Sierra-COY surveillance at Visoky Decane Monastery. Sierra Coy to the KFOR cause and to cooperate with other nations can be deployed when necessary as quick reaction under the motto “Seven Nations One Mission”.

11 SNAPSHOTS

Members of the Italian 17th „Sforzesca“ anti-aircraft artillery regiment, are joined by colleagues to mark Artillery Day, and honor the heroic deeds of those who sacrificed themselves in June 1918 in what is remembered as the „Battle of the Solstice“. The ceremony was attended by the Commander of the Regional Command West of KFOR, Colonel Natale Gatti and a representative of the six different Nations operating together as part of the Italian-led multinational unit.

Photos: OR - 4 Francesco Esposito ITA-Army

LMT personnel from “Kilo 20” out of Camp Bondsteel and Maneuver Battalion personnel out of Camp Nothing Hill participated in area beautification in observation

of World Environment Day. The city’s mayor, Sokol Haliti, invited the RC-E Soldiers to plant flowers and a tree and spray-paint an amphitheater in the town square. LMTs are charged with maintaining relationships with their designated municipalities in RC-E in order to best provide support to the institutions in Kosovo in their mission to maintain a safe and secure environment.

Photos: Staff Sgt. Melisa Washington US Army 12 KFOR supported the Non- Government Organization „UJQ“ in the town of Runik/ Rudink with building and opening a Soccer field. UJQ organization‘s goal is building multi-ethnic soccer teams in Kosovo, moving children from the streets to the soccer fields. The league is made up of children from 13 villages in the area, from seven to 23 years of age. Slovenian Soldiers of Liaison Monitor Team K15 RC-E worked with UJQ president Mr. Mexid Halilaj since 2017 to get the soccer field built.

Photos: Maj Chris Clyne US Army

The Norwegian People’s Aid operations supervisor, briefs Kosovo Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams on their standard operating procedures. The Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), a politically independent organization conducts Mine Action and disarmament operations around the world, and works alongside KFOR EOD contingents to clear sites of unexploded ordnance. NPA and KFOR have worked together since 2014 to ensure a safe environment that allows for freedom of movement for all people in Kosovo.

Photos: Staff Sgt. Amberlee Boverhuis US Army 13 Kosovo Force Soldiers run in the British Army’s celebration of the Booting of the Colours, June 13, 2020 at Camp Novo Selo, Kosovo. The Booting of the Colours was a physical challenge hosted by Soldiers of the British Army in honor of the Queen of Great Britain’s birthday. The three mile, 40 pound race requires Soldiers to test their physical stamina while carrying a rifle and is a routine test for British Soldiers looking to promote or get selected for arduous courses. More than 100 KFOR NATO partners showed their support for the British Army’s tradition

Photos: Capt. Nadine Wiley De Moura US - Army

An on-post firefighter participates in a training exercise at Camp Bondsteel. The on-post fire department and KFOR RC-E Task Force Aviation conducted a joint exercise where firefighters evacuated crew members from a notional UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter crash. The exercise is one of many held throughout the year to ensure RC-E troops and support personnel remain trained and ready to respond to any situation that may endanger RC-E troops

Photos: Spc. Miguel Ruiz US Army 14 TROOPS OF KFOR

TRAIN HARD he KFOR Tactical Reserve supporting elements - Military exercise lasted 2 weeks. During the TBattalion (KTRBN) recently Police and Psyops Team. training period the main emphasis participated in a battalion plus- In the fictional situation, created was placed on the improvement complex military exercise. The by the planning team of the of tactics, techniques and exercise also involved subordinate exercise, during an initially peaceful procedures (TTP’s) used during units, which normally cooperate demonstration, the crowd was CRC tasks. Besidescontrolling with the Hungarian soldiers, and getting louder and more aggressive, the crowd and forcing them back, given their special abilities they and it gradually turned into a the manoeuvre element had to can contribute to the succesful more violent riot. For this reason eliminate barricades, react to the completion of tasks when assisting the policing forces, assigned for high number of Molotov Cocktail the KTRBN. keeping the order, requested the explosions used by the rioters, and The aim of the exercise, which help of KFOR. The Tactical Reserve treat serious injuries. was observed by Brigadier Battalion was ordered to handle The other important aspect of General Laurent Michaud, the incident. Together with the the training was the preparation Deputy Commander of KFOR, tactical units, the C2 elements of of the Battalion Staff and Coy was to inspect and to improve the battalion and the supporting Commanders in order for them the command and control (C2) units were deployed at the site of to be able to react faster and in a capabilities of KTRBN Staff, in the exercise in Camp Vrelo. more efficient way to developing addition to the enhancement of The escalated situation was incidents. During the preparation preparedness of the subordinate successfully handled by the phase several mini exercises were units in crowd riot control Hungarian soldiers of KTRBN and conducted and evaluated regarding procedures. All of these were crowd riot control procedures, as improving command and control. executed by the battalion under well as C2, drilled during preceding almost real-life circumstances, practices, were properly applied. Photos and text by reinforced by the necessary The intensive preparation for the OF-1 Beata Sarkany

15 KTRBN UP CLOSE Peaceful demonstrations can sometimes turn violent. When they do, it is more than likely that it is the men and women of the Kosovo Tactical Reserve Battalion (KTRBN) that may be called upon if the situation escalates out of control. KTRBN exercises are known to be well planned and very realistic, with both rioters and troops playing their part with enthusiasm!

Command and control is notoriously difficult to exercise in a fast moving and ever changing situation, and few scenarios are more fast changing than a riot. Here Brigadier General Laurent Michaud, Deputy Commander of KFOR, receives a briefing from the C2 element of the KTRBN. The C2 element was heavily exercised, with constant reports coming in about breakaway groups, casualties, and updates.

Armoured vehicles are useful for transporting troops to any riot situation.Barbed wire on the armoured vehicle makes it more difficult for any rioters to climb on top and potentially endangering themselves and the occupants.

A KTRBN fire phobia instructor throws a molotov cocktail during the exercise igniting a fireball. Troops must be comfortable and confident operating in these stressful situations, and the KTRBN exercises are always well planned and realistic. Fire Phobia Training is a key feature of their exercises as is dealing with casualties efficiently.

16 KFOR NEWS

FAREWELL TO BG SHAWN HARRIS n 24 June KFOR Chief of when difficult decisions were Are there any particular OStaff Brigadier General Shawn needed. BG Harris was kind achievements or highlights Harris handed over the authority enough to answer some questions you would like to mention? of his appointment to fellow put to him by the PAO Team. We have continued to meet American, Brigadier General Larry Can you briefly describe your mission requirements of 1244 over Henry. The transfer of authority role as Chief of Staff in KFOR? the past 12 months, even though ceremony which observed My role in many ways is a normal I have seen 3 governments in Covid-19 protocols was presided Chief of Staff role which includes Kosovo during my time here, they over by COM KFOR MG Risi. It working with the staff and the have all been peaceful transfers. was an opportunity to thank and COM to ensure that we are I’m proud of what we did as a congratulate BG Harris for not supporting the COMs vision. leadership team and a greater only a job that was well done, but In addition, it’s to foster and KFOR to protect our Service the manner in which it was done. encourage the development of Members and civilian employees General Harris recalled the relationship among nations for long from the Corona Virus. operational achievements of lasting relationships within KFOR. From the 2021 Force GEN KFOR during his 1-year tenure, Did you have any particular conference we were able to get especially in responding to objectives when taking over nearly all critical shortfall roles the unprecedented threat of this appointment? filled. This moved our CJSOR / Fill COVID19, and highlighted the My number one objective was to rate from 69% to 89% importance of building strong and come here and do my Job, become What final message would you enduring relationships everyday part of the team, and ensure 1244 like to give your staff and/or within KFOR and outside with Key was continued to be followed. As the wider Kosovo Force? Leaders Engagements. the COS it has been my objective To the staff and wider KFOR, In his final address, General to ensure everything in my power always remind yourself that we are Risi warmly welcomed KFOR’s is done to help develop a staff that here for a greater cause and that is 19th Chief of Staff and thanked could meet all of the requirements to support Kosovo as they further General Harris for his outstanding to support our mission. develop in their democracy” leadership and great contribution What became your main tasks I’m just honored to be a part of to the operation, achieved thanks or priorities during your time the fabric of KFOR to an extensive background that as COS? “People First, Winning Matters, prepared him to lead a truly Relationship building and working NATO Strong” multinational staff and to provide to encourage more nations to join sound judgment and good counsel KFOR. PAO Staff

17 NEW CHIEF OF STAFF US-Army Brigadier General Larry Henry is the new Chief of Staff of the Kosovo Force. He took over the appointment from Brigadier General Shawn A. Harris of the US National Guard. The ceremony took place at the Headquarters of the NATO-led operation in Kosovo and was presided over by Major General Michele Risi, the XXIV Commander of KFOR, with the attendance of the US Ambassador Philip S. Kosnett and all KFOR leaders and senior national representatives.General Henry, a very experienced officer who served in various operational assignments, expressed his commitment to carry on his fellow predecessor’s work within the scope of KFOR’s mission to contribute to a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all communities in Kosovo, whilst supporting the dialogue process between Belgrade and Pristina.

WELCOME TO THE EU GERMAN MEDAL PARADE SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE Col Volker Eden addressed his soldiers, the men On Tuesday 16 June EU Special Representative for and women of the 56th German Contingent KFOR, the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue Miroslav Lajčak was during a Medal Parade Ceremony held on June, 20th. welcomed at his arrival at Pristina military airport by In the speech he re-emphasized his motto: the Chief of the EU Office in Kosovo, Ambassador “Mission first – Team always. Keep the spirit up and Nataliya Apostolova and by the Commander of the COVID-19 down.” Serving his first mission with NATO-led mission KFOR Major General Michele Risi. KFOR, Col Eden (Air Force) encounters a threefold The EU Special Representative went on to hold responsibility, as ACOS J5 as well as German Senior meetings with President Thaci, Prime Minister Hoti and National Representative and National Contingency Assembly Speaker Osmani, as well as with leaders of Commander. For his 6-month-deployment Col Eden the opposition. is looking forward to serving in a multinational NATO continues to support the EU-facilitated dialogue environment in these challenging, but ultimately between Belgrade and Pristina. rewarding, times. 18 #NATO 2030 n December 2019, NATO where we see our Alliance ten years militarily. Be more united politically. ILeaders invited the Secretary from now, and how it will continue And take a broader approach General to lead a forward-looking to keep us safe in a more uncertain globally. So first, we need a strong reflection process to strengthen world”. military Alliance, to protect our NATO’s political dimension. On “So today, I am happy to launch democracies and to continue to 08 June, NATO Secretary General my reflection on NATO 2030. compete in a more competitive Jens Stoltenberg launched his COVID-19 has changed our lives world. Threats to our security outline for #NATO 2030 in an in ways we could barely imagine”. have not gone away while we are online conversation with the The Secretary General noted focusing on the pandemic. Just Atlantic Council and the German how it has magnified existing the opposite. As we look to 2030, Marshall Fund of the United trends and tensions when it we must continue to invest in States. As soldiers in KFOR and comes to our security. Russia our armed forces and modern NATO it is important to keep continues its military activities military capabilities. They have kept abreast with developments and unabated. ISIL and other terrorist us safe for over 70 years, as they the future direction or vision groups are emboldened. Both continue to do today. Security is of the organization we are all state and non-state actors the foundation for our prosperity, members of. In this regard it is promote disinformation and now and in the future. worth reviewing the full address or propaganda. And the rise of He went on to say military reflection piece #NATO 2030. The China is fundamentally shifting strength is only part of the answer. address was followed by a question the global balance of power, “We also need to use NATO more and answer session which you can heating up the race for economic politically. This means bringing all find on the NATO Website. and technological supremacy, the issues that affect our security “Last December, NATO Leaders asked multiplying the threats to open to NATO’s table so that we can me to make our strong Alliance even societies and individual freedoms, forge stronger consensus sooner and stronger. By making sure we are as and increasing the competition more systematically; from conflicts effective politically as we are militarily, over our values and our way of life. in the wider Middle East region, to and that we remain ready today to #NATO 2030 is about how we global arms control, and the security tackle the challenges of tomorrow. adapt to this new normal. And consequences of climate change. This is an opportunity to reflect on to do this we must: Stay strong Using NATO more politically also 19 means using a broader range of tools. about a global approach. NATO live up to our values; Freedom, Military and non-military. Economic brings together 30 Allies, on both democracy and the rule of law. and Diplomatic. This is especially sides of the Atlantic. Almost one These values are what define us. important as we work together, billion people. Half of the worlds They are what make us strong, as to strengthen the resilience of our military and economic might, and a nations, and as an Alliance. As we societies and our economies. And network of global partners. continue to compete in a more to ensure that we do not import As we look to 2030, we need to competitive world, we must keep vulnerabilities, into our critical work even more closely with like- our democracies strong. infrastructure, industries, and supply minded countries. Like Australia, “My vision for NATO 2030 is not chains”. Japan, New Zealand, South Korea. about reinventing NATO. It is about NATO may not always be on the To defend the global rules and making our strong Alliance even front line to act. But it must always institutions that have kept us safe stronger. Strong militarily. Stronger be the forum for frank discussion for decades. To set norms and politically. And more global”. To help and genuine consultation. In fact, he standards. In space and in cyber us get there, he has asked a group noted, NATO is the only place that space. On new technologies and of experts to provide new ideas. “I brings Europe and North America global arms control; and ultimately, will continue to consult actively with together, every day. We have the to stand up for a world built on Allies. And I will reach out to civil structures and the institutions in freedom and democracy. Not on society, the private sector and young place. What we need is the political bullying and coercion. leaders. As we are doing here today. will to use NATO; To decide - and Reflecting on the strength of unity My recommendations will inform the where necessary - to act for our and shared values, the Secretary direction NATO Leaders set out when shared security. General noted the challenges that we meet next year. Together we can Finally, in a world of greater global we face over the next decade look to NATO 2030 with confidence. competition, where we see China are greater than any of us can Together we will keep our people safe coming closer to us from the tackle alone. Neither Europe in a more uncertain world”. Arctic to cyber space, NATO alone, nor America alone. So we needs a more global approach. This must resist the temptation of is not about a global presence, but national solutions. And we must KFOR PAO Staff

20 AN IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL DAY “Access to justice is a fundamental sexual violence such as rape. in Conflict. “Even 20 years after human right and this right must be Forms of conflict-related sexual the war, there is no justice for the guaranteed to all survivors of conflict violence include – but are not 20,000 people raped. Today we related sexual violence. Denying this limited to – rape, forced pregnancy, should not only seek justice, but right would be a repetition of the slavery and torture. Feride Rushiti, that the perpetrators of these acts crime against these survivors”. Executive Director of the Kosovo receive the punishment they deserve. Rehabilitation Centre for Torture I thank international associations exual violence is a weapon of Victims, works with survivors of and organizations for the assistance Swar, which is as destructive wartime sexual violence. “The provided to this category”, declares as the most modern advances in things I was seeing, the stories I Vjosa Osmani, First Woman weaponry. It is viciously destructive was hearing – I could not imagine Speaker of the Assembly of with physical and psychological human beings would do such Kosovo. In the digital dialogue on effects on its victims that can serve things”, she says. Conflict-Related Sexual Violence for the purpose of humiliation, Many women are still silent about online event on 19 Jun 20, NATO rewarding recruits, instilling fear or it because of the humiliation that Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg as a mechanism of ethnic cleansing. comes along with it. “Men didn’t highlights NATO’s commitment It leaves physical and mental scars, want their wives or daughters to talk in his recently launched vision it destroys individuals, families and because of the stigma, and because for NATO 2030, which addresses entire communities. And it leaves a it would be admitting that they had the prevention of conflict-related profound impact on this generation been unable to protect them”, says sexual violence. “Sexual violence and the next. Thousands of women Rushiti. Atifete Jahjaga, the former continues to be perpetrated on a were subject to these atrocities President of Kosovo, as she joins large scale in many conflicts around of rape in Kosovo during the war. UN Women in calling for justice the world – it is a clear obstacle Its goal was to destroy families’ and accountability for survivors. to peace and security. That is why honour and identity and it is a The GENAD Office works with we all have an urgent responsibility horrific strategy that worked. Even many of the NGOs that help to do more”. We need political though the war in Kosovo is long survivors of sexual violence such and diplomatic efforts and over, the war is not over for these as the Kosova Rehabilitation legal instruments to reveal the survivors who still suffer in silence. Center for Tortured Victims or atrocities, to hold the perpetrators 19 June marked the International Medica Kosova. accountable and bring justice to Day for the Elimination of conflict On 19 Jun various organizations the victims. related sexual violence. Suffering organized a walk in Prishtina based and destruction can come from on the International Day for the Maj. Dr. Elisabeth Schleicher missiles and bombs, but also from Elimination of Sexual Violence Chief Gender Advisor KFOR

21 PROFILES “STAY SAFE, STAY HEALTHY” I joined the Engineers of the Austrian Armed Forces in 2013 and after passing the assessment for the Military Police, I deployed to the 1st Coy MP. Still, there was a long way to go and many months of military training and several courses until I finished the first part of MP NCO training. This gave me the opportunity to go on international missions. In 2016 I gained my first experiences in KFOR in the role of IMP. This year, after accomplishing SSG training, I came back to test my abilities as Squad Leader. I really enjoy my work and meeting new people. Every day is different. Over all, I have spent 20 months in KOSOVO – 12 months the first time, and 8 months this time and I am already looking forward to coming back, despite the pandemic situation. Speaking of which, I want to make use of this opportunity and remind everyone: The crisis in not over yet. Do not become lazy! Keep your distance, wear your protection and, most of all, wash your hands properly every chance you get. Stay safe, stay healthy! Name: Eva Ferris Rank: Staff Sergeant Appointment in KFOR: Squad Leader IMP

BE NEVER BORED My first military experience was as a conscript in the Reserve Officer Infantry Academy in Bileča, former Yugoslavia in 1988. After finishing the training, I served as platoon leader in Bitola. Now 32 years later here I am in Kosovo, about to finish my tour of duty. In that 32 years a lot has happened. I Participated in the preparation and war for an independent Slovenia. In 1997, I went on Signal officer basic course in USA, and after that I served in many different appointments, but the stand out appointment was as a member of a task force, which had, for the first time its own area of responsibility. Before joining this mission, I was leader of the largest training area in Slovenia. I am also Leader of SAF ski team and I love all sports particularly football, and I love keeping fit. As a member of KFOR the experience was unforgettable, and I really enjoyed my role here. My life moto: Be never bored, always learn new things. Name: Janez PODGORNIK Rank: OF-1 / Country Slovenia Appointment: Operational, Security and Force Protection Officer

KEEP SMILING Panagiota Stefanoudi was born in January 1990 in a small city next to Thessaloniki Greece called Serres. In 2010 she graduated as a sergeant from the NCO School of the Greek Army, “I successfully attended the basic infantry course in 2010, and also qualified with a driver license for cavalry armored vehicles”. In a previous appointment, she served at the Greek border for 3 years as a chief of her office. “This is my fourth deployment to KFOR. On this occasion I am a team leader of the Greek Guard at KFOR HQ, and at the same time as S4 assistant NCO at the Greek HQ”.. Panagiota has been awarded with several national and international medals and awards, one of them is from the Italian Ministry of Defence for her service in Kosovo. Panagiota is always smiling, and all visitors to KFOR HQ get a warm and cheery welcome. As she says herself, “Smiling is a great weapon against most problems”. Name: Panagiota Stefanoudi Rank: OR-7 Appointment in KFOR: Team leader of the Greek Guard KFOR HQ

22 PHOTO OF THE MONTH

“Brothers & Sisters in Arms” Photo: Capt. Nadine Wiley De Moura US Army

Commander KFOR XXIV NATO Nations within KFOR Major General Albania, Bulgaria, Canada, Michele Risi, Croatia, Czech Republic, Italian Army Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Chief Public Affairs Office & COMKFOR Spokesperson Montenegro, Norway, Poland, Col. Mario Renna, Romania, Slovenia, Turkey, Italian Army United Kingdom, United States. Chief Internal Information Non-NATO Nations & Editor KFOR Chronicle Armenia, Austria, Finland, Comdt. Brian Lynch, Ireland, Moldova, Sweden, Irish Defence Forces Switzerland, Ukraine. [email protected] The KFOR Chronicle is produced Design & Layout and fully funded by HQ KFOR. Mr. Afrim Hajrullahu It is published for KFOR soldiers and civilians in the area of Photographer: responsibility. The contents Stefano De Ruggieri are not necessarily the official Contribute to OF-3 Italian Army views of, or endorsed by, the the KFOR Chronicle! KFOR PAO Office coalition governments’ defence Mr. Afrim Hajrullahu departments. Editorial content Just send your photos to: is edited, prepared and provided [email protected] Cover Photo: by the Internal Information by the 20th of the month explaining where you Stefano De Ruggieri Section of HQ KFOR’s Public OF-3 Italian Army Affairs Office (PAO) in Pristina, took the photo and what equipment you used. KFOR PAO Office Kosovo. PAO HQ KFOR reserves We will then select one of the submitted images the right to edit content to E-mail and Web conform to style and space and publish it in the next edition of the Chronicle. [email protected] requirements. Articles are run on A KFOR Chronicle T-Shirt is awarded each http://jfcnaples.nato.int/kfor a space-available basis. Articles month to the winning photographer. You will be appearing in KFOR Chronicle Printed by “Blendi” may be duplicated in official immortalised in the KFOR Chronicle! Tel.: 044 149 115 NATO publications subject to Is that not something to be proud of? KFOR PAO authorisation. Sincerely, The Chronicle Team.

23 “Sunset ” Photo: OF-2 Fabienne Wälti (Swiss-Armed Forces)

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