MARCH 2021. NO 3 (34)

IN SHORT

THE LEGENDARY UNIT: THE TRAINING REGIMENT

NATO'S PRESENCE WORKING TOGETHER

THE LONG ARM OF THE Successful defence ARTILLERY cooperation ON MARCH 19 MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENCE ARVYDAS ANUŠAUSKAS WITH MINISTER OF DEFENCE OF ANDRII TARAN IN KYIV TO DISCUSS THE SECURITY SITUATION IN UKRAINE SPECIAL AND THE BALTIC SEA REGION, AND THE LITHUANIAN-UKRAINIAN BILATERAL DEFENCE COOPERATION. ANDRIUS GRAIČIŪNAS — he actions Russia takes against Colonel General LITHUANIAN AMERICAN both, and Ukraine, Ruslan Khomchak. makes the security situa- "Lithuania will continue its political WWI AVIATION HERO tion in the region worse. Active spread of support and practical assistance to Ukraine disinformation, cyber-attacks, aggressive in the area of defence. We are contributing manoeuvres near our borders, also taking to the education reform, develop- advantage of the situation in the neighbour ment of the Special Operations Forces. In- , urges us to prepare for various po- troduction of NATO standards into mili- tential scenarios, therefore we have to be tary personnel training and transformation ready to react and respond, also through of the command and control system. We actions concerted with Ukraine," Minister also intend to expand the cooperation and A. Anušauskas said. On the first day of levels of available intelligence exchange," the visit Minister of National Defence re- Minister said. ceived a briefing on the security situation in During the visit Minister of National Ukraine from Commander-in-Chief of the See page 2 Content Successful defence NEWS SUCCESSFUL DEFENCE cooperation COOPERATION...... 1,2

CONCLUSIONS ON THE EU’S CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY...... 3

LITHUANIAN PEOPLE ARE ESPECIALLY FAVOURABLE TO NATO PRESENCE...... 4,5

UKRAINE SHOULD LOOK TO US FOR AIR DEFENSES...... 6,7

IN SHORT THE LEGENDARY UNIT: THE TRAINING REGIMENT...... 8

From page 1 Defence A. Anušauskas also met with Lithuanian military person- NATO'S PRESENCE nel deployed to Ukraine, visited the 169th Training Centre Desna of WORKING TOGETHER...... 12 the Ground Forces to where have been deploying since 2015 to help train the forces of Ukraine. Lithuania conducts the Na- tional Military Training Operation in Ukraine since the ap- proved its mandate in 2017. THE LONG ARM OF THE Minister also attended the Lithuanian-Ukraine President Coun- ARTILLERY...... cil conference, meeting with Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of 14 Ukraine Dmytro Razumkov, visited injured soldiers at a military hospital, and met with war veterans in the delegation of President of the Republic of Lithuania. SPECIAL Lithuania supports Ukraine’s aspiration to become a member of VYTAUTAS ANDRIUS GRAIČIŪNAS — NATO and actively develops bilateral cooperation in defence area. Lithuania supports Ukraine’s reforms in military career education LITHUANIAN AMERICAN WWI alone and together with NATO allies, assists Ukraine with adop- AVIATION HERO...... 20 tion of NATO standards and procedures into the Armed Forces that seeks to increase interaction with armed forces of NATO al- lies. Defence cooperation between Lithuania and Ukraine intensi- fied after the Russian military aggression in 2014. Lithuania was rendering material and technical assistance to the Armed Forces of Military Press Office of Ukraine, offered medical rehabilitation to injured Ukrainian troops Totorių str. 25, LT-01121, ; in Lithuania. Relations with Ukraine remains an important priority Phone (370 5) 210 3897, GSM (370 6) 86 94458; fax (370 5) 273 5550; Email [email protected] in Lithuania’s foreign and security policy. By developing the coope- ration with the Eastern Partners Lithuania strengthens security in Publisher — Lithuanian Armed Forces. The opinion of editorial office does not necessarily coin- cide with the opinion of the authors. Pictures, manuscripts are not returned and reviewed. Cir- the region. culation is 300 copies. Printed by the Cartography Center of Lithuanian Military, Muitinės str.4, Minister of National Defence is on a visit in Ukraine on March Domeikava, LT-54359 dist. Order GL-142. 18 through 20 in the delegation of the President of the Republic of Lithuania G. Nausėda. MoD information Photo credits: Maj Lina Jieznienė

2 Lithuanian Military Digest News

Conclusions on the EU’s cybersecurity strategy

n the 23rd of March the Council adopted conclusions on the EU’s cybersecurity strategy for the digi- talO decade. This strategy was presented by the Commission and the high representative for foreign affairs in December 2020. It outlines the framework for EU action to protect EU citizens and businesses from cyber threats, pro- mote secure information systems and protect a global, open, free and secure cyberspace. The conclusions note that cybersecurity is essential for building a resilient, green and digi- tal Europe. They set as a key objective achie- ving strategic autonomy while preserving an open economy. This includes reinforcing the ability to make autonomous choices in the area of cybersecurity, with the aim to strengthen the EU’s digital leadership and strategic capacities. In its conclusions, the Council highlights a ternet while increasing the competitiveness of ■ the importance of strengthening co- number of areas for action in the coming years, the EU industry operation with international organizations including: ■ the need to support the development of and partner countries in order to advance the ■ the plans to create a network of security strong encryption as a means of protecting shared understanding of the cyber threat land- operation centers across the EU to monitor fundamental rights and digital security, while scape and anticipate signals of attacks on networks at the same time ensuring the ability of law en- ■ the proposal to develop an EU external ■ the definition of a joint cyber unit which forcement and judicial authorities to exercise cyber capacity building agenda to increase cy- would provide clear focus to the EU’s cyberse- their powers both online and offline ber resilience and capacities worldwide curity crisis management framework ■ increasing the effectiveness and the effi- In order to ensure the development, imple- ■ its strong commitment to applying and ciency of the cyber diplomacy toolbox giving mentation and monitoring of the proposals swiftly completing the implementation of the special attention to preventing and countering presented in the cybersecurity strategy, the EU 5G toolbox measures and to continuing ef- cyberattacks with systemic effects that might Council encourages the Commission and the forts made to guarantee the security of 5G net- affect supply chains, critical infrastructure and High Representative to establish a detailed works and the development of future network essential services, democratic institutions and implementation plan. The Council will also generations processes and undermine economic security monitor the progress in the implementation of ■ the need for a joint effort to accelerate ■ the proposal on the possible establish- the conclusions through an action plan which the uptake of key internet security standards, ment of a cyber intelligence working group to will be regularly reviewed and updated. as they are instrumental to increase the overall strengthen EU INTCEN’s dedicated capacity www.consilium.europa.eu level of security and openness of the global in- in this domain Photo credits: www.flickr.com

March 2021. No 3. 3 News Lithuanian people are especially favourable to NATO presence

he population of Lithuania have tions are also met with a growing people’s agree that Lithuanian authorities ensure cy- confidence in the Lithuanian Armed approval. Lithuania has been consistently ber security properly," A. Anušauskas says. Forces and are favourable to it, they investing in modernisation of the Lithuanian haveT a very positive view on the presence of Armed Forces, strengthening of Alliance CONFIDENCE IN THE NATIONAL NATO allies in the country and welcome the bonds, and has managed to earn a steadfast MILITARY REMAINS HIGH AND increase of the national defence budget, shows support of NATO allies. Public support to GROWS FURTHER a public opinion poll carried out by request of the Armed Forces demonstrate a public un- According to the poll data, the Lithua- the Ministry of National Defence in December derstanding of security threats and apprecia- nian people have a particularly high and con- 2020 by Spinter Research, market and public tion of the Alliance’s initiatives to enhance tinuously growing confidence in the Lithua- opinion research company. regional security,” Minister of National De- nian Armed Forces — 73 percent, 3 percent "It is very important that the majority of fence Arvydas Anušauskas summed up the points more than in 2019, of the population the Lithuanian population have confidence poll results. say they have confidence in the Lithuanian in the Lithuanian Armed Forces and also a Minister also points out the increasing military. 72 percent of the respondents have positive view on Lithuania’s membership in ability of the public to recognise disinfor- a favourable view on a military profession. NATO, as well as the presence of NATO al- mation, information attacks and fake news, Results of the poll also show that 65 per- lies on the Lithuanian territory. The increase even though that is more usually seen among cent of the respondents would support a of the national defence budget, collective young people. “Beyond doubt, we would friend’s or family member’s decision to un- defence commitments, and deployments of like to have a better public resilience, on the dergo the mandatory initial military service Lithuanian military to international opera- other hand, 36 percent of respondents don’t voluntarily, it is more than in 2019 by 4 per-

4 Lithuanian Military Digest News

cent points. 58 percent of the respondents would support the decision of someone sig- nificant to them to join the professional mili- tary service. The ability of the Lithuanian population to recognise information attacks and mis- leading information has increased by 7 per- cent as compared to 2019. 48 percent of the respondents said they could recognise infor- mation attacks and misleading information, 9 percent they were able to identify it in eve- ry case and 39 percent — most usually. A new question was included into the poll to check the public opinion about the ability of public authorities to provide cybersecu- rity. It has been found that 46 percent of the respondents think that the public authorities of Lithuania ensure cybersecurity properly. The Lithuanian Armed Forces was ren- dering assistance to different civilian and in- ternal service agencies as part of its longest domestic support operation (which included tasks and functions quite foreign to armed services) ever carried in Lithuania. The poll respondents were asked to evaluate the as- sistance rendered by the Lithuanian Armed Lithuania should defend and (or) render critical for Lithuania’s defensive capabilities, Forces during the COVID-19 pandemic, 62 military assistance to other NATO allies in ability to act together in cooperation, and for percent of them think it was sufficient. -Fe case of a military conflict. That supports the strengthening regional and international se- male respondents and persons with higher principle of the Lithuanian defence policy ac- curity as well. education and higher income expressed a cording to which our country has to be pre- The respondents chose , , more positive opinion about the assistance pared for joint actions with NATO allies in and in the first positions from the military. the defence of any ally, Lithuania or another. when asked to name the closets friends of Lithuanian residents agree that Lithuania Lithuania among European countries. NATO MEMBERSHIP AND should contribute to the efforts of the inter- PRESENCE OF ALLIED FORCES national community by deploying forces to LITHUANIAN POPULATION SHOWS IN LITHUANIA VIEWED HIGHLY international operations if other allies re- MORE SUPPORT TO INCREASED FAVOURABLY quest to. The percentage of respondents up- DEFENCE BUDGET 87 percent of the responders were in fa- holding this position has increased from 68 According to the poll, 66 percent of Lith- vour of Lithuania’s NATO membership and percent to 76 percent since 2019. uanian residents agree to the 2 percent of it is the highest result of favourable opinion 60 percent of the respondents say they GDP to be allotted for national defence, 37 over the last five years. Another 83 percent supports Lithuania’s military assistance to percent of respondents are inclined to agree of the poll respondents supported allied pre- Ukraine and 69 percent agree with the idea that the National Defence Budget should sence in Lithuania’s territory. that Lithuania should contribute more to the reach 2.5 percent of GDP by 2030, like it is 75 percent of the respondents uphold fight against international terrorism. laid out in an agreement of the parliamentary that the German-led multinational NATO parties of the Republic of Lithuania signed in battalion deployed in Lithuania since 2017 THE IS SEEN autumn 2018. helps to deter hostile countries. The mul- AS THE CENTRAL STRATEGIC The public opinion poll was carried out by tinational high readiness combat capabili- PARTNER IN DEFENCE request of the Ministry of National Defence on ties have been deployed for deterrence and The majority of respondents asked to 15-30 December 2020 by Spinter Research. defence purposes not only in Lithuania but name three countries that were Lithuania’s It included 1008 respondents of age 18 to 75. also the other Baltic states and Poland since strategic partners in defence area pointed out The poll took place in the time of lockdown by 2017 as a result of changed security situation the United States of America, Poland came combined means, 50 percent of respondents took in the region. second, and Germany — third. A significant part via telephone and the other 50 percent — 77 percent of the respondents agree that increase since 2019 in the opinion that Po- via the Internet. Insignificant discrepancies may continuous military exercises of the U.S and land is Lithuania’s strategic partner in de- be seen in comparison to the year before when other allies in Lithuania improve our readi- fence, rising from 38 percent to 60 percent, is polling was also done in person. ness for territorial defence and deter hostile seen. Bilateral and multilateral military coop- MoD information actions. eration with the U.S., Germany, Poland, Bal- Photo credit: Sgt Spc 1st class Ieva Budzeikaitė/ 72 percent of the respondents think that tic and and other allies is Lithuanian Armed Forces

March 2021. No 3. 5 News

A Ukrainian Su-27 Flanker and MiG-29 Fulcrum escort two B-1B Lancers during a training mission for Task Force Europe on May 29, 2020, in the Black Sea region. Ukraine's Air Force consists mainly of older Russian-made equipment. Ukraine should look to US for air defenses he recent decision by the Biden ad- appropriated by Congress for the fiscal 2021 practical point of view," Danylyuk said. "No ministration to send $125 million in Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, but that disrespect, but Ukraine deserves more than military aid for Ukraine is a welcome money is gated off until the U.S. Defense and Egypt or Jordan." Those two countries receive siteT in Kyiv, but the country needs and deserves State departments jointly certify there has been significant military aid from the U.S. much more, according to a former chief adviser "sufficient progress" made by Ukraine on mili- Specifically, Danylyuk said he would like to to Ukraine’s defense minister. tary reform efforts. see the U.S have more high-level military-to- "It is clear that Ukraine is not unique among Danylyuk, who has advised Ukraine’s go- military interactions to discuss mutual tactical the list of countries who are supported by the vernment in modernizing its armed forces, and strategic objectives. U.S. government," Oleksandr Danylyuk, now particularly its , argued two key Luke Coffey, an international affairs expert chairman of the Ukrainian Center for Defense points that make Ukraine worthy of increased with the Washington-based Heritage Foun- Reforms think tank, said in a recent telephone aid. The first is that country’s 1994 decision to dation think tank, believes relations between interview from Kyiv. "But it is also clear that remove from its soil nearly 200 intercontinen- the U.S. and Ukraine will be easier under the Ukraine provides a lot of security for the U.S." tal ballistic missiles and nearly 2,000 nuclear Biden administration than during the last 18 The package, announced March 1, included warheads in exchange for a guarantee of sove- months of the Trump administration, when two Mark VI patrol boats as well as "counter- reignty from Russia. arms support for Ukraine became tied up in artillery radars and tactical equipment; conti- The second, and far more current, argu- the first impeachment trial of President Do- nued support for a satellite imagery and analysis ment he made is that by taking on Russia in the nald Trump. capability; and equipment to support military Donbas and elsewhere, Ukraine is expending "I think where we’ll see a change will be in medical treatment and combat evacuation pro- its own blood and treasure to protect U.S. al- terms of the rhetoric that’s used about Ukraine cedures," per the Pentagon. lies like Poland and the Baltics, and ultimately and its Euro-Atlantic aspirations in NATO and That marked the first military aid to Ukraine America itself. the ," Coffey predicted. "But under the Biden administration, and more "Ukraine deserves much bigger support also I think we’ll see more funding and finan- could be coming; there is another $150 million from a moral point of view and from a very cial support" from the U.S.

6 Lithuanian Military Digest News

While Coffey is skeptical there will be a "Clearly the Ukrainians need this, but there is fifth-generation fighter like the F-35, Danylyuk shift toward American military exercises more the U.S. can and should do." said the stealth fighter is on the list of air assets in Ukraine, Ian Brzezinski, a European expert Ukraine would eventually like to have. with the Atlantic Council, said such an expan- EQUIPMENT WISH LIST Updating Ukrainian air capabilities makes sion is needed, feasible and would be a strong In terms of material items, Danylyuk said sense to Coffey, but Ukraine “shouldn’t try to sign of support for Ukraine. more air defense and anti-missile systems are be a peer-to-peer competitor with Russia in the "Right now, we basically do ship visits and needed. He specifically cited the Patriot and skies.” tactical training for the military," Brzezinski Tomahawk missiles as something Ukraine de- More directly, "there’s no way, in my opi- said. "What about sending a brigade or batta- sires. nion, that Ukraine should even remotely con- lion into Ukraine for a few months? That would The Patriot makes sense on paper, as it sider a platform like the F-35 right now," Cof- provide a higher-intensity level of engagement would come heavily into play should Russia fey said, given the unit cost and operational and training for the Ukrainians, and it would ever fully invade Ukraine, said Brzezinski. "The requirements for the advanced fighter. "For the complicate Russian planning by demonstrating Russians are all about using missiles to shut type of threat that they face and are involved in that one cannot ignore the risk of U.S. interven- down an adversary’s command-and-control right now, I don’t see how they could feasibly tion in Ukraine in the event Moscow acts radi- structures, critical sensors, and logistical sys- purchase F-35s." cally again." tems; that’s why Ukraine needs more robust air Instead, Coffey suggested Ukraine should "The top officials of the Biden administration and missile defense capacities," he said. look to alternatives for air power, including largely come from the Obama team. They’re But he noted the level and type of missile ’s Bayraktar TB2 unmanned systems seasoned, they have a new leader, but it’s not yet defense capabilities the U.S. can and should that have proven effective against Russian fully clear how their policies are going to differ provide would be in part determined by equipment in , in and during the from the Obama years. They need to articulate Ukraine’s capacity to afford and properly use recent Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between and demonstrate that they [are] less averse to those systems. Armenia and Azerbaijan. conflict and will [be] more assertive in combat- That same concern would exist for any high- Danylyuk also said he would like to see ting aggression," he added. "Some of their initial end — something Danylyuk said more joint U.S.-Ukraine weapons systems de- statements and actions are obviously useful in is another priority. The Ukrainian Air Force velopment programs. "That could be very use- this regard but do not yet clearly distinguish the heavily relies on obsolete Soviet , and ful," he said. administration from the Obama years." "we need to replace them with something more www.defensenews.com Regarding the recently released military as- modern," he said. Photo credits: Ukrainian Air Force, sistance package to Ukraine, Brzezinski said: When asked if Ukraine is interested in a www.flickr.com

March 2021. No 3. 7 In short

The legendary unit: the Training Regiment

the TU soldiers had to fulfill these tasks very often with minimal armament and even without it. 2. Also they had to prepare junior com- manders for the Lithuanian Armed Forces in a minimally short period of time who would start accepting Lithuanian young people for compulsory military service and start their military training and education for homeland defense, considering that the Soviet Army at this time was still in full force in Lithuania.

AGAINST THE SOVIET ARMY — WITH ALMOST EMPTY HANDS The question for any current soldier: How to plan defense, protection, ambush, provide unarmed combat support against the armed to the ears Soviet soldiers, which were ar- mored with tanks, combat vehicles, aviation, paratroopers, special operations units, infan- try? Approximately a few tens of thousands of Behind every photo lies a story. Behind every story is a person, who can tell a lot. On February 22, 2021 soldiers of the Soviet Army were deployed in the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Training Regiment (Lithuanian: Mokomasis Junginys, MJ) was celebrated. It was the first military unit of the restored regular Lithuanian Armed Forces in 1991 and Lithuania at that time, not forgetting the sol- the predecessor of the Brigade IRON WOLF. diers of the Soviet militia OMON, the Soviet security service KGB and collaborators. WHY IS IT SO SPECIAL? know what tasks this unit performed in 1991 From the first day of the establishment of the he Training Regiment (TR) was and for what purpose it was established. TR, its soldiers formed both instructors and the established in order to defend the The first military unit of the regular Lithua- training units themselves, a total of 2 combat Lithuanian freedom and the Parlia- nian Armed Forces had a few essential tasks: companies. Česlovas Jezerskas, one of the main Tment in January 1991. However, it was not 1. To defend and protect the Parliament and chiefs of defense of the Lithuanian Parliament enough to be a mere patriotic and homeland- the other Lithuania's strategic objects, to provide in 1991, was appointed the commander of the loving citizen to become a member of this unit. combat support to the Lithuanian state Border Training Regiment, Liutauras Paužuolis was ap- These requirements were particularly impor- Guard Service, to protect the leadership, to parti- pointed the chief of staff, Rimantas Baltušis be- tant, but not even enough. To understand what cipate in combat operations, to participate in ra- came the commander of the first company, Pra- kind of people served in the TU, one needs to pid response combat operations. To tell the truth, nas Kasteckas was appointed the commander of

8 Lithuanian Military Digest In short

the second company and was responsible for the Guard reinforcement, protection of state ob- the restored Lithuanian Armed Forces and physical/combat self-defense training. jects, patrols, protection of important people. dispersed over all Lithuania: Most of them re- The TR soldiers were training on from early At that time if you could go to fall asleep while mained in the Iron Wolf Brigade, others went morning to night: tactics, medicine, topogra- walking — you would definitely do so. And if to the other military units. So they served phy, communications, military engineering, nobody didn't change you on duty after a few wherever they were needed. shooting, parachute training, regular physical days, you didn't get mad, because you knew, The Training Regiment was the foundation of and combat self-defense sessions. Combat self- that your comrades were as tired as you. There the restored Lithuanian Armed Forces, as it was defense has become the main combat tool for weren't many of us, but we all were proud of who built on volunteers — the soldiers, who loved the soldiers of the Training Regiment. Through we are — the soldiers of the Training Regiment, their homeland more than their personal lives and intense training, which was often done 2 to 3 the Wolves, the Lithuanian Army Soldiers! In health. They very often hid their injuries in order times a day, the soldiers became iron in their the spring of 1991, the TR soldiers were hono- to remain on duty in the TR, so they were the Sol- body and soul — morality and fighting spirit red to wear the Iron Wolf badges — it was a very diers of the capital letter and became an example were indestructible weapons of the TR. special moment for everybody. for future generations of the Lithuanian soldiers. In November 14, 1991, the Training Regi- WOLVES’ BROTHERHOOD ment was reorganized into the Land Rapid By Col Aleksiejus Gaiževskis, In addition to having urgent military know- Reaction Brigade. In June 6, 1992 it got the a former soldier of the Training Regiment ledge, the TR soldiers carried out many com- name of "Iron Wolf". Photo credits: Tadas Dambrauskas, archives of bat tasks in parallel: the Parliament protection, After the reorganization of the Training the Ministry of Defence of Lithuania, reconnaissance of enemy objects, State Border Regiment, its soldiers continued to serve in www.vilkuklubs.lt

March 2021. No 3. 9 In short

Cold Lithuanian winter: The start of the mission of the 9th NATO eFP BG rotation

10 Lithuanian Military Digest In short

Photo credits: PAO of NATO eFP BG

March 2021. No 3. 11 NATO's presence Working together CAPT. KYLE CORBIN IS A TANK COMMANDER FROM THE 2ND BATTALION, TH8 CAVALRY REGIMENT, RECENTLY DEPLOYED TO THE PABRADĖ TRAINING AREA AS ROTATIONAL FORCES OF THE U.S. ARMY. HE SAYS THAT EVERY JOINT TRAINING EVENT HE PARTICIPATES, LEAVES HIM INCREDIBLY SATISFIED WITH THE FACT THAT U.S. TROOPERS HAVE ACCOMPLISHED AN INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT MISSION — WORKING TOGETHER.

The U.S. Army deployed about 450 ing tactics between allies at the tactical level is troops to Lithuania as part of a military proof of all the hard work allies put towards operation. Could you introduce the unit? supporting each other. Every joint training The unit that recently deployed the nd2 Bat- event I’ve been a part of leaves me incredibly talion, 8th Cavalry Regiment. We are a part of satisfied with the fact that we’ve accomplished the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team of the an incredibly important mission — working 1st Cavalry Regiment based out of Fort Hood, together. Overcoming obstacles to accomp- Texas. lish training, whether they be differences in language, equipment or tactics, is incredibly What can you say about the deployment rewarding. phase? What were your first impressions about Lithuanian and the Pabradė train- What are the biggest challenges for you, ing area? as a company commander, and your From the company level perspective, we’re Capt. Kyle Corbin troops in the mission like this? very grateful for our awesome accommoda- tions here. Our Troopers have access to every- thing we need to stay healthy and comfortable while we train. The scenery is beautiful, and the setup provided by our hosts functions in- credibly well.

What is the main purpose of your mis- sion in Lithuania? How long are you go- ing to stay here? As a company, our primary mission is to con- tinue building relations and cross-training with our NATO partners. This is the second time I’ve supported a NATO mission, sharing train-

Caring for Troopers is always a challenge that requires constant effort and attention. Our Troopers will aggressively accomplish any mission we put in front of them, and some- times they do so without regard for their personal comfort or safety. Our challenge as leaders is to make sure we only put Trooper’s in situations where they are set up for success, whether it be ensuring they have the right equipment, cold weather clothing or appro- priate amounts of rest and nutrition.

All the exercises taking place in Lithua- nia are of a defensive nature, but what are your main training goals? What kind of military tasks are you going to prac- tice here?

12 Lithuanian Military Digest NATO's presence

Talking about the military experience in exercises like this one: What are the main positive aspects? Deploying the unit to another continent and putting our equipment into operation within 72 hours is a training experience unlike any other. The feeling of accomplishment when we pass major milestones like that is a huge posi- tive aspect of training here. Trading patches with our allies after a training exercise is anot- her. The patch you trade with an ally is a physi- cal symbol of so much hard work and dedica- tion. To hold a physical object that symbolizes an experience is incredibly rewarding.

By Ilona Skujaitė My number one priority for training is to mas- Photo credits: Sgt Alexandra Shea ter our fundamentals. The best military units in the world are absolute experts at the basics. For us, that means shooting our combat plat- forms, moving in synchronization, commu- nicating between platforms at long distances, and caring for each other medically. When training with our allies, we imple- ment the same method, but we must respect the inherent differences between language, equipment and doctrine. When we train with partners, we emphasize face-to-face under- standing and collaboration. This allows us to synchronize effort with our allies and accomp- lish incredible training objectives like multina- tional live fire events.

How much are you going to train together with the Lithuanian Armed Forces and other NATO allies, deployed in Lithuania? We are very excited to participate in upcoming Operation Crys- tal Arrow, an exercise focused on training with NATO-enhanced For- ward Prescience Battlegroup Latvia among other exercises with Lithuanian Land Forces and NATO allies and partners. Train- ing with our allies is the number one priority while we are here.

March 2021. No 3. 13 NATO's presence The long arm of the artillery COVID-19 CANNOT STOP THE ARTILLERY — NOT EVEN WHEN SELF-PROPELLED HOWITZERS WITH A WEIGHT OF 57 TONS EACH NEED TO BE SHIPPED TO LITHUANIA OVER A DISTANCE OF 1500 KILOMETRES. WHILE GERMANY WAS IN LOCKDOWN, 10TH PANZER DIVISION MANAGED TO SEND ITS REINFORCEMENT FORCES TO THE ENHANCED FORWARD PRESENCE (eFP) MISSION IN ORDER TO FULLFILL GERMANY’S ALLIANCE COMMITMENTS AT NATO’S EASTERN FLANK. THIS IS THE STORY OF A LONG JOURNEY.

A tank howitzer "Panzerhaubitze" in the ammunition street, waiting for ammunition boarding.

A tank howitzer shooting the first shot — for security reasons the crew is throwing a rope from outside in order to shoot the first shot.

14 Lithuanian Military Digest NATO's presence

cool morning on the Kairiai military training area in Lithua- nia — ideal conditions for the artillery soldiers from northern Bavaria to practice precision shooting. The ser- vicemen and women start up the 1000-horse- power engines of their self-propelled howitzers. The engines rumble as the 57-ton steel giants come to life. The ground shakes as the howit- zers make their way to the ammunition storage site where shells and propelling charges are ar- rayed along the road. Each howitzer is loaded with 25 high-explosive shells and modular pro- pelling charges to ensure that the shells can be fired over a distance of 30 kilometers. Within eight minutes the loading process is completed. "For the crews, firing a 30-kilometre shot is the ultimate challenge," explains Battery Com- mander Johannes M. Since late October, the five self-propelled howitzers have been practising combined arms operations together with their Lithuanian allies in the birch forests of the Baltic region. In order to get there, however, they had to overcome some obstacles. Loading the train at the train station of the Grafenwöhr Barracks, well known US american army training area in Germany. The barracks of the Artillery Batallion in Weiden are in the near of Grafenwöhr (Bavaria). ARTILLERY SOLDIERS FROM WEIDEN IN BAVARIA SUPPORT mission: to reinforce the indirect fire compo- the reinforced artillery battery. They are sup- NATO’S EFP BATTLEGROUP nent of the Lithuanian "Geležinis Vilkas" (Iron ported by ammunition supply and transport This exercise forms part of the preparatory Wolf) brigade and its subordinated eFP Battle- elements of the 1st Battery and a meteorologi- training for Exercise Iron Wolf, during which group. Headed by Captain Johannes M., the cal group, a counter-battery radar group and a NATO’s multinational eFP Battlegroup to- soldiers of the 4th Battery of 131 Artillery Bat- sound-ranging platoon of the 2nd Battery. But gether with reinforcements from Germany will talion based in Weiden in eastern Bavaria pro- how did these reinforcements make their way be integrated into a Lithuanian brigade. Their vide the bulk of equipment and personnel for to Lithuania?

Arrival oft he train at the port of Rostock in northern Germany. The ferryboat for Lihuania is waiting.

March 2021. No 3. 15 NATO's presence

During that time, the soldiers from Weiden were to advice the combat troops in all mat- ters related to joint tactical fire support. The tank battalion from Pfreimd is not exactly new to the Baltic region either — in 2019 the unit of 12 Armour Brigade had already deployed to Lithuania as the fifth eFP rotation.

HOWITZERS AND CAMPERS ON DECK The equipment for the reinforcement for- ces began its journey when it was loaded onto trains in Vilseck near Grafenwöhr. The freight, however, was not headed to a reloading station near the Polish-Lithuanian border as usual, but to Rostock instead. At the Baltic Sea ferry terminal, all 55 vehicles were transferred to a ferry a few days later. Zickmantel notes that it is good to know that one can rely on the men and women of his battalion. Arrangements made with civilian companies for the reload- ing of the equipment at the port in Rostock changed every day. The hard work invested, however, paid off and culminated in a truly un- usual sight: vacationers and campers headed to The way to the quai: the tank howitzers are not allowed to be loaded by themself on the ferryboat, so they had to be loaded on a carrier. The carriers are driving on board of the ferry boat. and howitzers and heavy trucks des- tined for the eFP crossing the Baltic Sea peace- CROSSING THE BALTIC SEA BY Hungarian artillery soldiers at its garrison in fully side by side. SHIP Weiden, the battalion at the same time was busy The journey from Bavaria to the military preparing hygiene concepts for the accompa- training area in Lithuania was admittedly long nied transport of the equipment by rail and and difficult. "We have by now become used ferry and the necessarily contactless handover to transporting major equipment by rail," says of said equipment to the reinforcement forces Lieutenant Colonel Sven Zickmantel, the taken to Lithuania by aircraft. A total of 65 ser- Commander of 131 Artillery Battalion. The vicemen and women from all units of the bat- battalion’s soldiers had recently been on ex- talion contributed to ensuring the transporta- ercise in Sweden and Austria and had visited tion of different vehicles and major equipment Lithuania twice before. Nobody would have over a period of five days and keeping the tight thought that the third trip to the Baltic region deadlines set by the civilian ferry operator. "In would be such a challenge. this context, the unpredictable development According to Lieutenant Colonel Zickman- of the Covid pandemic did little to alleviate tel, planning of the deployment of the reinforce- the situation," Lieutenant Colonel Zickmantel ment forces for the eight rotation of eFP Battle- comments a logistical job well done. group started very early. "It was new for my team to use ferry transport. No one in our battalion REUNION IN LITHUANIA had done anything like that on such a scale be- In the months prior to deployment, 131 fore." The outbreak of the Covid pandemic in Artillery Battalion had to pool the personnel 2019, however, upended all plans: The artillery at its garrison in Weiden and prepare them for soldiers were no longer able to take charge of their territorial and collective defence mission. loading their equipment for transport — they Pre-deployment training, post-related train- had to be in isolation two weeks prior to the de- ing, training-area stays and follow-on training parture of their flight. "Our battalion therefore hence had been part of everyday military life had to establish, instruct and, to a certain extent, at the battalion since the beginning of the year. train a transportation detachment." Back in July, soldiers of the fire support pla- toon together with their comrades from 104 TRANSPORT BY FERRY — A NEW Tank Battalion based in the Bavarian town of CHALLENGE Pfreimd deployed to Lithuania in order to form In addition to the conduct of training of new the core of the eight rotation of the multina- Military vehicles on board of the ferry boat to Klaipeda. officer cadets and of post-related training for tional Battlegroup for a period of six months.

16 Lithuanian Military Digest NATO's presence

AN ENORMOUS EFFORT FOR THE ENTIRE BATTALION After their journey to the Klaipėda port in Lithuania, the vehicles were unloaded by the escort detachment and, at night, the contact- less handover to their crews, who had arrived by plane, took place. The coronavirus did not stand a chance. Even though the deployment was a logistical challenge and required an enor- mous effort under these special circumstances, the battalion was able to keep to the ambitious schedule. The loading and escort detachment of the 5th Battery returned to Bavaria by sea and by bus. "Despite the short-term changes and the additional personnel requirements, the de- ployment was very successful," confirms the Commander of 131 Artillery Battalion. With- out good coordination between all agencies in- volved it would not have been possible to bring the equipment and the transport detachment Tank howitzers hidden in the woods of Kariai Training Area before going into their ordered shooting position. and the reinforcement forces together in Lithu- ania at the same time.

"READY TO FIRE!" On the Kairiai military training area in Lithuania: With only moments to go until the fire order is given, the howitzers set out into the open terrain and move into their assigned firing position from their sheltered location in the forest. Now there is tension in the air. "It is unbelievable to feel how the howitzer reacts to the enormous forces unleashed when the shot is fired," says Sergeant Jana M., the commander of the howitzer’s crew. Now the show begins: Over the radio, the order to fire comes in. "Go," she calls to the driver. A few seconds later all four howitzers are in their firing positions, spin their turrets in the direction of fire and get ready to fire. The platoon's fire direction centre has -al ready processed the target coordinates, taking At the ammunition street: A gunner is loading the ammunition into the howitzer. into account weather data and wind speeds. This helps to calculate the right firing angle and other parameters. In the crew compartment, the gunner takes over. After the automatic loading system has fed a high-explosive shell, the loader inserts a propelling charge into the barrel and closes the breech. "Ready to fire," he yells. There is silence in the crew compartment. "Fire!" The commander presses the firing but- ton, and the extremely heavy howitzer shakes under the pressure created by the propelling charge. It takes almost a minute until the pro- jectile hits its target.

Story by Mario Hönig, Sascha Klenk and Karsten Dyba Photo credits: Kurt Basler/ A tank howitzer shooting in direction of the Baltic Sea.

March 2021. No 3. 17 The discount is applicable only upon presentation of a service National Defence System employees card.Special (soldiers, civil servants and employees Conditions and applicable discounts may change. working under an employment contract) There are additional conditions. * Expositions are free of charge to the Lithuanian Military Academy Soldiers of the Permanent Mandatory (LMA)** cadets, Permanent Mandatory Initial Military Service (PMIMS) Initial Military Service soldiers serving in the LMA, and soldiers from the Headquar- ters Battalion (GHB). Coordinate with the regional and recruiting service de- Members of the Lithuanian partment.*** Riflemen’s Union Due to a match of the football club “Atlantas” coordinate with the Grand Duke**** Butigeidis Dragoon Battalion's S5 division of the Bri- Lithuanian soldiers gade “Samogitia”. Due to a match of the basketball club “Neptūnas” coordinate with the National Defence Volunteer Force’s S5 division of the Samogitia district 3rd team. Due to a match of the football club “Sūduva” coordinate with the Lithu- Soldiers of the National Defence Volun- anian Grand Duke General Support Logistics Battalion’s S5 division. teer Forces ***** The discount is applicable to persons who serve or have served in the Lithuanian Armed Forces, also to those who are in the prepared personnel NATO soldiers reserve of the Lithuanian Armed Forces (for the entire study period both for the first and second cycle studies). The discount is applicable on February 16, March 11, July 6, and Negotiation issues November****** 23.

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Vytautas Andrius Graičiūnas — Lithuanian American WWI Aviation Hero LIEUTENANT VYTAUTAS GRAIČIŪNAS IS THE ONLY KNOWN LITHUANIAN AMERICAN COMBAT AVIATOR, WHO HAD SERVED IN THE U.S. ARMY AND FLEW THE FRENCH BREGUET 14A2 RECONNAISSANCE AND BOMBER AIRCRAFT IN FROM 1917 TO 1919.

A LITHUANIAN PATRIOT TO HIS American community. Although he remained a DEATH Lithuanian patriot to his death, Andrius clearly here is little doubt that Dr. Vytautas demonstrated his love for his newly adopted Andrius Graičiūnas is the most noted country on October 16, 1900, he became a Lithuanian scientist who ever lived. proud American citizen. HisT name is recognized by scientist and educa- His beloved wife Uršulė passed away while tors worldwide and his engineering and man- there children were still quite young, but the agement theory contributions studied to this good doctor insure that his children were in- day. Recounting of his scientific contributions stilled with his love of all things American and would be redundant, but a presentation of his his never forgotten dream of a free and inde- life story for those who do not have a great pendent Lithuanian state. Dr. Graičiūnas com- interest in scientific studies is worth knowing passion to help other misfortunates, including Lieutenant Vytautas Graičiūnas, a pilot of the U.S. about. Army 9th Bomb Squadron, WWI. welcoming his Lithuanian born niece, Unė Vytautas was born on August 17, 1898, in Babickaitė, into his home and raising her like a Chicago, Illinois, to Andrius Lution Graičiūnas daughter. The young Vytautas grew up living in and Uršule Varankaitė, who were both immig- country, he embraced the dream of Lithuanian the Chicago Lithuanian American community rants born and raised in Lithuania. Unlike vast nationalism then sweeping the nation. Because where he was a gifted student and went on to majority of their fellow Lithuanian American of his political activities, Andrius soon had to graduate from the University of Chicago. Not immigrants, Andrius and Uršulė were not flee to his beloved homeland to avoid arrest. a small feat during an era where few American peasant farmers seeking the economic oppor- Andrius and Uršulė immigrated to America in even finished high school. tunities the nation offered, but its liberty and July 1893 and settled in Chicago where there freedom. Andrius came from a wealthy Kaunas three sons, Vytautas, , and Victor were LITHUANIAN AMERICAN WW I family and grew up living among the nation’s born. While living in Chicago, Andrius became COMBAT AVIATOR intelligentsia. Although Andrius had become a well-known surgeon, but continued to be Most of Vytautas’ biographies after docu- a physician and a respected member of the a Lithuanian activist working tireless for the menting his date and place of birth and his Czarist Russian aristocracy which ruled the good of those less fortunate in the Lithuanian studies at the University of Chicago from 1914

Vytautas, his father Andrius, and mother Uršulė. The French Breguet 14 and bomber, a plane used by the 9th Aero Squadron, WWI. (Courtesy of AVM School of Management archive).

20 Lithuanian Military Digest Special

Enamel pin and shoulder patch of the 9th Aero Squadron WWI — Gaidis Collection.

Lieutenant Vytautas Graičiūnas, US Army Air Corps, AEF, France WWI. Graicunas, Lt. Vytautas, 9th Aero Squadron Nat Arch Record Card, St. Louis Photo. to 1918 quickly move onto a discussion of begun in Europe in 1914 became famous for index cards clearly document that Vytautas his subsequent engineering and management numerous technical innovations, none caught A. Graiunas (misspelled last name), served theory contributions. At best there might be the interest of the general public more than as a Lieutenant, was assigned to and served one line after reporting his education indicat- aviation. Prior to the war military aviation with the U.S. Army Aviation Service, 9th Aero ing that Vytautas had served in the U.S. Army largely consisted flying over enemy troops and Squadron, during World War I. From the infor- in France from 1917 to 1919. What these his- fortification for reconnaissance purposes, but mation found on these two little index card and torians have overlooked is Lieutenant Vytau- with the advent of the machine gun and better U.S. Army’s documentation of military unit tas Graičiūnas is the only known Lithuanian aircraft the pilot became idealized as a modern histories we can still present a history of dis- American World War I combat aviator. Lithua- day knight taking to the sky to give battle with tinguished service of Graičiūnas and his fellow nians take great pride in the post war aviation the enemy. It is not known what first drew the flyers who served with the 9th Aero Squadron, exploits of Steponas Darius and Stasys Girėnas, young Vytautas to aviation, but he quick volun- during World War I. but they have forgotten that Lieutenant teered and was approved for pilot training. Graičiūnas was the only flyer who took part in Unfortunately, a disastrous fire at U.S. Na- WWI AIR COMBATS IN FRANCE dangerous flying combat missions of the skies tional Personnel Records Center, Saint, Louis, After his induction into the U.S. Army in of France during the blood war. Missouri, on the night of July 12, 1973, des- Chicago, Illinois, Graičiūnas was assigned to Vytautas Graičiūnas the gifted young uni- troyed approximately 16-18 million records the U.S. Army, Provisional Aviation School versity student chose to leave is studies in including most World War I and World War Squadron, Company E, Kelly Field, San Anto- April 1917 when he heard his nation’s call of aviation service files. As a result, Vytautas nio Texas, to receive pilot training before being volunteers to fight for freedom in World War personal military service records were lost to sent overseas. While the unit was receiving ba- I. Although fighting World War I which had history. Still two surviving National Archives sic pilot training at Kelly Field, the members of

March 2021. No 3. 21 Special

ties included acting as a rear machine gunner and a bombardier as necessary, where further equipped with flares and landing lights. Theth 9 Aero Squadron was then became part of the 1st Army Observation Group, Air Service and assigned to the Headquarters, Night Recon- naissance Bombing Group, Amanty Airdrome, Toul Sector where it began flying allied combat missions. The th9 Aero Squadron began its first night time combat patrols from the Vavincourt Aerodrome, Amaty, France, on September 14, 1918, and thereafter flew regular commis- Lieutenant Vytautas Graičiūnas (the 3rd in a row from the left) near his aircraft, US Army Air Corps, AEF, France WWI. sion over enemy territory. Lieutenant Vytautas Graičiūnas was one of the magnificent brave Company E, on May 30. 1917, designated as a squadron to be assigned to with a British unit. young men who daily risked their lives flying separate unit which was selected to receive spe- On August 7, 1918, Lieutenant Graičiūnas dangerous combat missions for love of their cialize bomb training. and the other aviators of the 9th U. S. Aero Squad- country. During the next three months, the 9th On June 14, 1917, Company E officially ron flyers travelled to Southampton, where Aero Squadron took part in the most famous of designated at the U.S. Army 9th Bomb Squad- they boarded a ferry which took them cross American World War I fighting, which included ron and upon completion of their basic avia- the English channel to Le Harve, France and their earning of military combat streamers for tion training the each new flyer was commis- by overland transportation to the St. Maixent the Battle of Lorraine — Tour Sector, August sioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Aerodrome, which had been designated as the 30-September 11, 1918; the Battle of Saint- On July 5, 1917, these new officers were primary French reception center for units as- Mihiel, Offensive Campaign, September 12-16, sent to Selfridge Field, Mount Clemens, Mi- signed to American Expeditionary Forces. 1918, and the Battle of Meuse-Argonne — Of- chigan, where it underwent specialize training There the unit was assigned to Colombey where fensive Campaign, September 26-November in combat flight bombing, radio, and photo- they were equipped with the French Breguet 11, 1918. graphy. It was here that Lieutenant Graičiūnas 14A2 reconnaissance aircraft and became the As a result of the bravery and dedication of earned the U.S. Army aviator ratings that au- first American squadron assigned to night flying these units flyers the a great deal of informa- thorized him to wear the coveted flyer wings and reconnaissance duties. tion related to night time reconnaissance was on his uniform. On October 27, 1917, the unit During the early years of World War I, both learned that is still used to this day. One of the was ordered to Mineola Field, Mineola, Long the Germans and allies has learned to conduct units most noted innovation was painting the Island, New York, and embarked on their over- troop movements at night to conceal their underside of their aircraft black to help conceal seas travel on November 27, 1917, sailing from planned operations. The Breguet designated their plane from enemy searchlights and an- Halifax, Nova Scotia. Upon their arrival in Li- airplane was specially designed and equipped tiaircraft guns. During the war it became cus- verpool, England, on December 7, 1917, and with a camera and a number even with radios tomary for aviation units to adopt an insignia the squadron was assigned to the British Royal for more expeditious reporting of enemy troop which was frequently paint on their aircraft and Flying Corps, Romsey Rest Camp, where movements where time frequent became a ne- worn as a distinctive unit badge. The insignia they underwent another six months of com- cessity. In addition the two man Breguet flight adopted by the 9th Aero Squadron features a bat training which became the first American crews, the pilot and an observer, whose du- solo double winged aircraft flying through ene-

U.S. pilots are loading bombs on a Breguet plane at Amanty Field, France July 29, 1918. Breguet 14 Bomber twin Lewis Machine Gunner tourelle position.

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my night time search lights forming the Roman number nine. Although most American units were sent home shortly following the November 11, 1918, armistice the 9th Aero Squadron was then assigned to U.S. Third Army Air Service, VII Corps Observation Group, sent to the Ger- man Coblenz Airdrome, Fort Kaiser Alexan- der, Germany, was part of the allied Rhineland occupation force. There the unit was assigned as a courier squadron to the Third Army Head- quarters and preforming testing flights on sur- rendered German aircraft. Thereafter the unit was reassigned to the VII Corps Observation Group, Trier Aerodrome, Trier, Germany, and 1st Air Depot at Colombey-les-Belles Air- drome, France, until finally receiving their or- ders to go home. The unit was then assigned to Marseilles, France, where they remained from From the left: unknown person, Unė Babickaitė and Vytautas Graičiūnas — May 25 to June 7, 1919, when they embarked he used to fly in his civil life too. on a ship taking them to the United Sates. Upon arriving home most of the squadron per- Holland, , and England. Graičiūnas many occupation as a Management Advisor to the sonnel was demobilized at Mitchell Field, New Lithuanian governments held positions were German Agriculture Business Directorate- York, and with the thanks of a grateful nation with the Ministry of Defense, State Theatre, and General. Even after the end of World War II, returned to their previously civilian pursuits. Film Company. He was also a frequent lecturer Vytautas could have returned home being an at the Vytautas Magnus University. For his ser- American citizen, but again chose to remain LOVE TO LITHUANIA AND DEATH vice to the Republic of Lithuania, Graičiūnas Soviet occupied Lithuania because his beloved IN SIBERIA was awarded Commander's Cross of Order of wife, Unė, being a Lithuanian citizen was not You have now read brief account of Lieuten- the Lithuanian Grand Duke Gediminas. allowed to join him. ant Graičiūnas bravery during World War I, but Although they surely saw the storm of war During the second Russian occupation, the rest of his life is just as interesting. Upon re- spreading across Europe during the early days Graičiūnas work as an Associate Professor of turn home, Graičiūnas returned to his studies of World War II, Vytautas and Unė chose to Civil Engineering at the Vytautas Magnus Uni- at the Illinois Institute of Technology where he remain in Lithuania and survived the resulting versity from 1945 to 1948 and then as a Mana- earned his Bachelor’s degree in 1923 and for the Soviet and Nazi occupations. During the ini- gement consultant for the Kotono and Silva's next three years he work as a management con- tial 1940–41 Russian occupation, Graičiūnas Kaunas factories from 1948 to 1951. Although sultant in Chicago, Milwaukee, and New York. worked for the Soviet government in as a Con- Graičiūnas was not immediately targeted by Although the young graduate was filed with a sultant to the Soviet People’s Commissariat the Russian authorities the situation changed passion for his work, he still found time to fall Department and during the Nazi 1941–1944 as the cold war spread around the world. in love and marry, Unė Babickaitė, who had On the night of April 18, 1951 Soviet sec- grown up with him living in his father’s house- ret police raided the Graičiūnas apartment in hold. Some have argued that Unė, who grew up Kaunas and both Vytautas and Unė arrested af- in the Graičiūnas household and later became ter prohibited radio equipment and a huge lib- a renowned Lithuanian actress, was even more rary of unfavorable USSR material were found. of a Lithuanian patriot than Vytautas, as she re- They were quickly tried with both then being fused to renounced her Lithuanian citizenship. sentenced to ten year in a Russian Siberian One can only conjecture what caused Vytautas gulag. On January 9, 1951, Vytautas died un- and Unė in 1927 to abandon his family and der mysterious circumstances in the Olžeraso promising American engineering and manage- Gulag located in Kemerovo, Siberia area. After ment career to move to Lithuania. Stalin’s death in 1953, Unė was allowed to re- Upon arriving in Lithuania, Graičiūnas turn to Kaunas where she lived out the rest of quickly obtained employment and for the next her life. So ended the lives of Dr. Vytautas And- several years worked for a number of factories in rius Graičiūnas who was surely the most noted Kaunas. As his management skills became well Lithuanian scientist and American World War I known and the existing Lithuanian industrial ca- combat aviator and his beloved wife. pacity at the time being very limited, Graičiūnas began working as an international management By Henry L. Gaidis/Lithuanian Heritage consultant. Although Lithuanian remained Photo credits: The U.S. National Archives, their home, Vytautas thereafter accepted work Courtesy of AVM School of Management assignments in Germany, Switzerland, France, Vytautas Graičiūnas with his wife Unė Babickaitė. archive, Gaidis collection, flickr.com

March 2021. No 3. 23 Photo credit: Kurt Basler/Bundeswehr

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