jAN - JUN 2010

HQ FC MADRID CHANGE OF COMMAND

Exercise Steadfast Juncture 2010 - Phase III at Valdahon (France) The Informer

Serving the HQ FC Madrid IN THIS ISSUE Community Commander’s Message Lt Gen Alfredo Cardona Torres Commander Battle Staff Training (Steadfast Juncture 2010) LTC José Sanchez Requejo Managing Director Battle Staff Training Noble Jewel 2010 CPT Gianluca Manfredelli CPT Francisco Ortega-Villaizan Transition Parade Editors Headquarters Allied Force Command PO2 Jose M. López Madrid Change of Command SAmn Ignacio Reina Graphics Designers JLSG-2 Change of Command PO2 Jose M. López SAmn Ignacio Reina Photographers CIMIC Seminar NATO Linguistic Service Ninth edition. The Informer is an authorized unofficial publication. Its aim is to Allied Chief of Staff Talks (ACAST) inform the Headquarters personnel and their family members. Standby DJSE´s Operational Liaison and Opinions expressed in this publication are Reconnaissance Team receives its new those of the authors and do not reflect 4x4 vehicles official policy. Suggestions for articles, comments and NCOs´ Triathlon Mixed Team Competition contributions are welcome and should be directed to the Editor. The Editor reserves the right to revise Spanish National Support Element submissions. (Monographic)

Public Affairs Office The Experience of a Forward Element Carretera Boadilla del Monte Public Affair Member on Deployment Km. 3,400 Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid (Spain) NCO’s Corner Phone: 91-512-6431 Fax: 91-512-6469 International Food Festival 2010 E-mail: dospio@lamd..int [email protected] Visitors Printed by CC-Land Madrid HQSG Graphics and Reproduction Section Prevention Measures in Summer

2 The Informer COMMANDER’S MESSAGE

Three months ago I took command of HQ Allied Force Command Madrid. I received command just a few days after the transition from CC Land HQ to HQ Allied FC MD took formally place but, even so, I found a well experienced and established HQ that, in fact, has been already training and working with the new organization for some time before.

This Headquarters has made a truly superb effort over the last few years, transforming its structure and incorporating and developing new concepts and procedures in a permanent process of evolution to adapt to the new challenges and demanding requirements.

I have not been an outsider to this transformation process or unacquainted with the achievements of this Headquarters. From my previous assignment, I have had the chance to observe at first hand the high standard of professionalism among its personnel and the level of operational preparedness it has achieved.

You have also worked on some other important aspects of the Alliance, among them the Military Cooperation, which includes all those activities regarding the promotion of peace, cooperation and understanding among many of the partner nations in and the Mediterranean region.

Now, members of Allied HQ Force Command Madrid, let me share some thoughts with you. With the last two exercises you have just carried out (Steadfast Juncture 10 and Noble Jewel 10) you have just successfully entered a new phase in the ten years of existence of this young but experienced and soundly established Headquarters. In a short period of time you have already demonstrated our operational capabilities as DJSE by taking part in the NRF rotations and in KFOR with the JLSG. This has been worked with the three Joint Commands trying to standardize procedures to work following the “plug and play” concept. But by no means have we come to the end of our road. I call on you, I entreat you to remain loyal to the Force Command motto “Further Beyond”, and to anticipate and be prepared to face future challenges by always looking ahead.

3 The Informer COMMANDER’S MESSAGE continuation

We, at Force Command Madrid, shall continue our training to improve our performance in order to offer our experience and capabilities to the Joint Force Commands to support the operational responsibilities as deemed necessary. I want this HQ has and put into practise three main features to cope with the challenging situation we are going to face: flexibility, rationalization and anticipation.

I want to have a dynamic and flexible HQ, either in its organization as well as its attitude, to immediately react to any circumstance that may arise. We need to rationalize all our actions in a way that we can achieve most goals or effects at the same time with less effort and actions. And finally, I ask from you anticipation, based on a good programming, founded on its tour on a good work in prospective and in an efficient Management Plan.

I also encourage you to give the best of yourselves in fulfilling these other tasks related with regional stability and mutual understanding, comprehension and cooperation among nations. Thus, we will contribute to the common security architecture through the application of a comprehensive approach.

All this have to be done adhering strictly to all the necessary security exigencies, which is a paramount in my style of Command. An exact compliance with every regulation and security matter in all fields will be permanently demanded to all. I call on you to continue to do your work with the same dedication and generosity you have shown up to now, and encourage you to maintain the same enthusiastic attitude, to keep up your teamwork and cooperative approach and to maintain, as Force Command Madrid, the “esprit de corps” you have cultivated as CC-Landers.

You can rely on my full support in doing so. I pledge my full commitment and my professional skills, efforts and energy to Force Command Madrid to attain those goals.

Alfredo Cardona Torres , ESP A 4 EXERCISES The Informer STEADFAST JUNCTURE 2010

CERTIFIED! Brunssum led the whole activity through its Main and the Forward Element, which was Written by CPT Gianluca MANFREDELLI provided by Allied Force Command Madrid. Allied Force Command MADRID Public The Land, Maritime and Air Component Affairs Commands were respectively played by the , FRMARFOR and CC The STEADFAST Series Exercises AIR IZMIR. Along with the above mentioned are recurrent drills aimed at developing Components, Madrid Joint Logistic Support NATO expeditionary capabilities. One of Group and German POTF, SOCC and the most significant activities of this type is CBRN provided assets for the Exercise. STEADFAST JUNCTURE 2010 (SFJE10), a Command Post Exercise focused on Despite the fact that SFJE10 was training and certifying the NATO Response not actually the first NRF Exercise for the Force rotation 15 (NRF 15) Command and training audience, some new elements Control structure, contributed to through the make the whole Deployable Joint event far more Staff Element challenging and (DJSE) concept. exciting. T h e F i r s t , Exercise was the scenario, performed at three fictitious as levels: Strategic usual, and (Allied Command placed in O p e r a t i o n s ) , an Eastern Operational (Joint African region, Force Command) envisaged the and Tactical d e p l o y m e n t ( C o m p o n e n t of the NATO Commands). Such multiple levels implied Response Force (named NATO Interim multiple locations: the execution phase of Multinational Force, NIMFOR) as an the Exercise was, in fact, simultaneously entry Force in charge of performing a UN- conducted in Brunssum, Netherlands; mandated Crisis Response Operation Valdahon and Toulon, France; and in Ankara (CRO), under Chapter VII of the Charter. and Izmir, Turkey, from 5 to 15 May 2010. Then, the mission, aimed at stabilizing Considering the aim, extent and the region and at enabling the efficient characteristics of the Exercise, the training delivery of humanitarian aid. Such a context audience for SFJE10 was definitely robust implied specific, demanding tasks, such as and well articulated. In accordance with land and sea patrolling, weapon registration, the DJSE concept (one Headquarters, process implementation monitoring, two locations) Joint Force Command reacting to airspace violations, Search and Alfredo Cardona Torres Lieutenant General, ESP A 5 The Informer EXERCISES STEADFAST JUNCTURE 2010

Rescue, humanitarian assistance, natural injection, any reaction, any posture, and and artificial disaster response, emergency any decision drove participants to deal with management and crisis communications. every ramification of a political, legal, and communicative nature, therefore forcing the Special Staff, a team of skilled personal advisors to the Force Commander, to bear a continuous and heavy workload. Besides the training and operational points of view, the experience prompts a noteworthy logistical remark: The Forward Element worked throughout the whole Exercise in the CP 156, an innovative structure conceived to house a Headquarters deployed for more than six In all these missions, the entire months in the most extreme conditions. training audience was called upon to Allied Force Command Madrid was not new respond to the numerous injections the to such an experience, having previously Exercise Control provided through several used CP 156 during Exercise NOBLE skilled role-players. Madrid DJSE 2 in LIGHT 2008 with its Joint Logistic Support particular, as a Forward Element of the Group. This time, a larger number of Joint Force Command, reacted excellently people to accommodate and a more varied to a multifaceted spectrum of activities: The training audience allowed the structure to Joint Coordination Centre, by appropriately display the full scope of its capabilities. planning and tasking; the Situation Cell, by Luckily, six months by far exceeds constantly providing situational awareness; the required period for an NRF certification and the Theatre Engagement Cell, by Exercise. Eight days after the start of the effectively interacting with the regional Exercise, ENDEX was reached and, along authorities, such as institutional, political with it, certification for NRF 15. and military leaders and International Governmental and Non-Governmental Well done! Organizations. In such a hectic context, any

6 EXERCISES EXERCISES The Informer STEADFAST JUNCTURE 2010 BATTLE STAFF TRAINING “NOBLE JEWEL 10”

DJSE1 DEBUTS! ACC Ramstein provided response cells for the Air Component Command. In accordance with the recently revised NATO Military Structure, Allied The Scenario, consistent with the Force Command Madrid mission is to aim of the Exercise, was a Crisis Response train and to prepare two Deployable Joint Operation implying the deployment of a Staff Elements (DJSEs) to act as Forward UN Mandated force to a fictional area in Elements of a Joint Force Command. order to restore peace and security and to DJSE 2 achieved its operational capability prevent further destabilization of a weak by undergoing the related certification nation. Hence, the tasks: control of the processes for NRF 14 and 15. territory across land and sea, anti embargo Now and anti piracy operations, Cease Fire time had Agreement monitoring, enabling delivery come for of Humanitarian Aid, search and rescue, DJSE 1 to hostages rescue, disasters response. get started Such a demanding range of missions by taking implied strong coordination with the regional part, from authorities under the direct supervision of 27 May to the Force Commander, deployed to theatre 1 June, in along with his Special Staff. E x e r c i s e N O B L E To the newly built-up DJSE 1 team, JEWEL Exercise NOJL10 represented a real 2010 (NOJL10) a combination between a challenge, won through great commitment Battle Staff Training and a Command Post and professionalism, as well as incessant Exercise aimed at familiarizing the training dedication. audience with the DJSE Concept before Such a remarkable debut legitimates the approaching STEADFAST JUNO, great expectations for the upcoming the NRF16 Certification Exercise to be Exercise Steadfast Juno 2010. performed in Stavanger (Norway) later this year. Keep up, folks!

Scheduled and conducted by Joint Force Command Naples, EX NOJL10 was a two-level Exercise: Operational (Joint Force Command) and Tactical (Component Commands). In fact, along with Joint Force Command Naples (Main) and Allied Force Command Madrid DJSE1 (Forward), NRDC-T and MCC Naples participated in the Exercise respectively playing the role of Land and Maritime Components, while

7 The Informer CEREMONIES TRANSITION PARADE

On a cold morning at the end of Since 26 February, therefore, February 2010 Headquarters Allied Force personnel, structures, allocations and all Command Madrid transformed into its new material means are undergoing a continuous functional structure. NATO´s new tools, adaptation process in order to be ready to the two Deployable Joint Staff Elements accomplish their newly assigned tasks with (DJSE-1 and 2) were taking shape through the utmost effectiveness. the appointment of their respective We could say, dear reader, that in the Commanders, BG Feliu (ESP-A) and BG face of the coming summer weeks, much Savarese (ITA-A). has been done but much has still to be achieved, taking into account that our roll- out day, the participation of our first DJSE in ISAF 2012, is nearer than expected.

This was the beginning of radical conceptual change, on the one hand, and a physical departure from our former well- loved environment known as CC-LAND. DJSE-2 will therefore be the first to demonstrate that the challenge taken on This represents the Retamares by Headquarters Force Command Madrid HQ´s undisputed vocation to renew itself started on that cold and sunny February and adapt to the times in order to fulfil its morning parade is now ready to deploy in important role supporting all three Joint support of at least one of the two Major Force Commands in the NATO military Operations that the three Joint Force structure, Naples, Brunssum and Lisbon, in Commands have to face. In this particular their Command and Control management case, DJSE-2 MD is to provide Command operations. and Control to the ISAF operation in .

8 CEREMONIES The Informer CHANGE OF COMMAND AT HQ FC MADRID

As forecast, the weather on 6 April Flag and Commander JFC Naples, Admiral was cold and wet as Headquarters Force Fitzgerald. Command Madrid members stood ready for the Change of Command Parade. The poor weather conditions forced the transfer of Guests were protected from the rain authority to be under a canopy set up specially for the conducted indoors, occasion. Accredited members of the press in the Multipurpose from many different papers came to cover Conference Centre the event. which has sufficient capacity for a large As is customary at such events, audience. I n f a n t r y R e g i m e n t Inmemorial del Thus sheltered, the Rey Número 1 temperature of this emotive was charged event rose by several degrees with paying as the outgoing Commander, honours, first LTG Miró Valls, expressed his to the Spanish gratitude to all those present flag and then and the incoming COM, LTG to Admiral Cardona Torres, declared his F i t z g e r a l d , deep respect for the honour C o m m a n d e r bestowed upon him. Admiral Joint Force Command Naples, as the Fitzgerald’s warm and optimistic address Military Authority presiding this solemn act closed the event. at Headquarters Force Command Madrid. HQ FC Madrid has received its At the appointed time outgoing COM new Commander with a daunting array of LTG Miró Valls and incoming Commander challenges. LTG Cardona Torres were waiting under the rain to salute the Spanish National After the official Transfer of Authority both generals and the admiral held a brief i n f o r m a l m e e t i n g with the members of the press.

9 The Informer CEREMONIES JLSG-2 CHANGE OF COMMAND

BG HANS-JOACHIM FISHER TAKES of Staff HQ FC Madrid, who then handed COMMAND OF THE JLSG-2 AT HQ the guidon to the incoming authority. This FORCE COMMAND MADRID tradition is to symbolize that the command is never left without senior leadership. In late April, HQ FC Madrid gathered once again to bid one of its members farewell. On this occasion, it was BG Feliù (ESP-A), Commander of the JLSG that supports DJSE-2 when deployed. BG Feliù had received just one week earlier his transfer notice.

An official group photograph was taken by the Public Affairs Office staff following which LTG Cardona, Commander HQ FC Madrid, proceeded to close the act.

As soon as incoming Commander BG HQ FC Madrid wishes BG Feliù Fischer arrived, both generals discussed every success in his new appointment, and all the issues included in the handover is confident that BG Fischer will surmount protocol, such as personnel and material all the challenges he will be facing when, in management in their logistic unit. Everything January 2012, ISAF claims Logistic Support was prepared for BG Fischer in order to from us. have all the required information ready for a smooth handover process. The Transfer of Authority ceremony celebrated on 26 April 2010 was presided over by LTG Cardona Torres (ESP-A) Commander HQ FC Madrid. The JLSG handover ceremony featured the solemn passing of the guidon from the outgoing general, BG Feliù, to his superior, MG Carvalho (PRT-A) Chief

10 ACTIVITIES The Informer JLSG-2 CHANGE OF COMMAND CIMIC SEMINAR

From 16 to 18 March Headquarters Allied Force Command MADRID hosted a CIMIC Seminar open to NATO Partner countries (Partnership for Peace, Mediterranean Dialogue and Istanbul Cooperation Initiative).

The aim of the Seminar was to enhance interoperability with NATO Partners in Civil and Military Cooperation. Further, the Seminar covered the Moldova, Morocco, Tunisia and Ukraine whole spectrum of CIMIC activities in an – went through an overarching series of operational environment. lectures and discussions.

Lieutenant General Alfredo The Seminar is part of a CARDONA TORRES, Commander Allied comprehensive programme Allied Force Force Command MADRID, opened Command MADRID is carrying out to the convention warmly welcoming the boost interoperability with NATO Partner audience. Then, the attendees – coming countries. from Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Ireland,

NATO LINGUISTIC SERVICE

The 2010 Spring session of the community current with any developments, NATO Linguistic Services Conference was changes or other events liable to affect the hosted by HQ Force Command Madrid provision of linguistic services. As these on 29 and 30 March, with a turnout of 25 linguists from NATO HQs and agencies (SHAPE, HQ NATO - IS TRANSLATION SERVICE, NATO DEFENSE COLLEGE, JFC Naples, NHQS, CC-AIR IZMIR, E3A, KFOR HQ, NSA, NHQT – ALB, ISAF, HQ NATO-RUSSIAN SERVICE and NHQSA) and external organizations (USEUCOM, EUROCORPS and ).

This conference is held every six months to maintain the NATO linguistic

11 The Informer ACTIVITIES

NATO LINGUISTIC SERVICE - Continuation - vary from single translators working alone To strengthen the NATO linguistic to large teams of translators, interpreters community’s links with other official and revisers, different topics have a varying agencies, linguists from external degree of impact but ultimately affect the organizations are invited as observers. entire community, directly or indirectly. LTC Bonal, Military Assistant to the COM, welcomed participants on behalf of the Commander. CPT Manfredelli of the Public Affairs Office kindly gave an informative presentation on the current status of FCMD.

The conference concluded successfully on Tuesday at 13:00, when Ms Wintle, Force Command Madrid Senior Translator, thanked participants for attending and all the Headquarters Services for their support to the Conference.

ALLIED CHIEFS OF ARMY STAFF TALKS (ACAST) & LAND COMMANDER´S CONFERENCE (LCC) The fifth edition of the Allied Chiefs of Army Staff Talks and Allied Land Corps Commanders’ Conference was held this year from 15 to 17 June in Zagreb (). Chaired by Lieutenant General Alfredo Cardona Torres, the conference was organized by HQ Force Command Madrid with support from the Army of the Republic of Croatia. Attendees included Chiefs of

Army Staff from 23 NATO member nations, th as well as 12 Partnership for Peace (PfP), Kruljak. On the 16 , as a prelude to the Mediterranean Dialogue (MD) and Istanbul working sessions for the day, the President Cooperation Initiative (ICI) countries: of the Republic of Croatia and Supreme Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Commander of the Croatian Armed Forces, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Dr. Ivo Josipovic, addressed his welcome Moldova, Switzerland, Ukraine, Uzbekistan remarks to participants in the conference, and Israel. to which Lieutenant General Cardona The venue began on the evening Torres (FC HQ Madrid),Lieutenant General of 15 June, at the welcome cocktail John W. Morgan III (FC HQ Heidelberg) reception hosted by the Commander of the and Lieutenant General Kruljak replied. Croatian Army, Lieutenant General Mladen The Conference was divided into

12 ACTIVITIES The Informer

NATO LINGUISTIC SERVICE - Continuation - ALLIED CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF TALKS - Continuation -

two groups, Dr. Vlatko one for C v r t i l a , Members of Dean of the the Alliance U n i v e r s i t y and the other of Political for partner S c i e n c e n a t i o n s . of Croatia; Thus, those Centres of representing Excellence: p a r t n e r R o l e s , n a t i o n s visited a NBC and the Regional Arms Responsibilities and possible assistance Control Verification and Implementation for partner nations as an example of the Assistance Centre (RACVIAC) and CoE, by Col Santiago San Antonio, Chief Croatian Army Peace Support Operations of International De-mining Centre in Hoyo Centre (CAPSOC), while NATO members de Manzanares, Madrid, and The Future of proceeded to the conference hall to attend Military Cooperation, by Brigadier General presentations on the following topics: Schulz, Military Cooperation Division NATO, a role in the 21st century, given Director, JFCNP. To finish, Lieutenant by Ambassador Jiri Sedivy (Assistant General Cardona Torres summed up Secretary General for Defence Policy conclusions and, after formally declaring and Planning), The new NATO Command the meeting closed, held a brief interview Structure / NATO in Transformation, with the press before proceeding to given by Rear Admiral Jorgen Berggrav the standing light lunch hosted by the (SACTREP Europe), and NATO- Croatian Army. Operations in Afghanistan, given by These ACAST, held yearly since DCOM ISAF Lieutenant General Sir Nick the first meeting in Quebec in May 2006, Parker. serve to foster dialogue and strengthen After a working lunch hosted by ties between NATO military authorities COM FC MD, participants joined the and partners, and are organized on a cultural programme that included a visit rotating basis by Allied Force Commands to the Sabor (House of Parliament of the Madrid and Heidelberg. This edition of Republic of Croatia) where they were the conference, besides the outstanding welcomed by its President, Luka Bebic; a quality of its briefings and briefers, has walk through the centre of Zagreb; and, provided an unequalled occasion for finally, a visit to the ‘HS Produkt’ weapons the highest representatives of Allied factory in . Later that evening, all and other NATO partners to the principals and their spouses gathered become better acquainted and exchange for the official dinner hosted by COM FC impressions and ideas. The Republic of MD. Croatia has excelled in the role of Host The conference continued Nation to the conference, while taking on Thursday 17th with a common the opportunity to reveal to participating programme for both groups, comprising nations how its Army and military industry the following topics: Croatia, from MAP has progressed in recent years, breaking country to Membership: lessons learned ground for future candidates’ integration and experience during the process, by into the Alliance. 13 Photo Collage The Informer

14 The Informer Photo Collage

15 The Informer STANDBY DJSE´S OPERATIONAL LIAISON AND RECO NNAISSANCE TEAM RECEIVES ITS NEW 4x4 VEHICLES

The Capability Package 9A1101 Liaison and Reconnaissance Team, now Project started at the beginning of 2009. had the proper means for deployment. After a few Users Group Meetings However, some equipment packages were (NAMSA, FC Madrid and FC Heidelberg) still in the UK pending shipment. to discuss the need for Now, in late an Operational Liaison June 2010, this entire Reconnaissance Team equipment package is (OLRT), the design of fully installed in both vehicles and trailers vehicles and trailers, began on March 2009. rendering all the OLRT’s In January transportation assets fully 2010, the Ricardo and operational and available Penman Company for use by the Leader, finished the First-off Support & Administrative OLRT PVRT special Cell and, subsequently, vehicle and trailer (First Article). First by the Group of Experts when and where Article Factory Test (FAFT) was performed they are required to deploy anywhere in by NAMSA. During the FAFT process, the world. OR-7 Juan Francisco Grande Diaz and These 4x4 vehicles are destined to OR-5 Jezabel Garcia Gutierrez from HQ play a dramatically important role as the FC Madrid, along with OF-4 Heinrich Aldag very first step in the JFC’s decision-making and OR-8 Jorg Schigowski from HQ FC procedure. HEIDELBERG, provided their advice to the chain of production. Everything regarding the user’s point of view was taken into account in reaching the final design. At the end of March 2010, vehicles and trailers arrived at Madrid and Heidelberg Headquarters. This new demanding concept, the Operational

ESPECIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OF OLRT VEHICLES AND TRAILERS (CP9A1101) VEHICLE: Land Rover Defender 110 NATO tow hook Station Wagon Fitted For Radio Front-mounted winch Warn 9.5t Heavy duty chassis and suspension Pioneer kit (Axe, Pickaxe and Shovel) 3500kg Air compressor Air Condition Personal weapons stowage ABS and Electronic Traction Control Boiling vessel JATE rings (lifting/towing/lashing – 2 Driver’s kit (spare parts, oil and lubri- front, 2 rear) cants, snow chains, high lift jack…)

16 The Informer STANDBY DJSE´S OPERATIONAL LIAISON AND RECO NNAISSANCE TEAM RECEIVES ITS NEW 4x4 VEHICLES

TRAILER: Penman NAMSA Trailer Weight unload 620kg Weight capacity 1130kg Security cage EQUIPMENT PACKAGE (to load Cooking set (Qty 4) in vehicle and trailer, it will arrive Folding chair with armrest – heavy duty approximately in September) (Qty 16) 2.0 KVA Diesel Generator Set (Qty 4) 4 Feet folding table – heavy duty (Qty 4) 20 Meter extension cord (Qty 8) Tent and lighting set (Qty 5) Power strip, 6 Schuko Sockets (Qty 8) Combat lifesaver kit (Qty 1) 4 Man mountain tent (Qty 2) Medical stretcher (Qty 1) 2 Man mountain tent (Qty 4) Miscellaneous storage and retaining Water purification and basic test kit (Qty 1) straps kit (Qty 4)

3rd NCO TRIATLHON MIXED TEAM COMPETITION Written by SGM Ralph Gossing, OR-9 DEU A. Senior Enlisted Advisor DEU and NCOIC for the NCO Mixed Team Competition in 2008, 2009 & 2010 In this article I’d like to start by giving Series (GBS). readers some background information and With the aim of practising basic a brief history of this kind of event as an military skills such as swimming and essential part of our NCO Education and running in mixed teams (different nations, Training programme for 2010. different sex and different ranks) and to In 2008, the year declared the ‘The strengthen team-building within our NCO Year of the NCO’ within NATO by former Corps, we held these competitions for the SACEUR, General James L. Jones Jr., first time in 2008. USMC (Ret.), our HQ developed for the Though all activities were approved first time the NCO Education and Training by the Chief of Staff, participation in Programme with its NCO National this event is voluntary and depends on Representative Working Group (NCO NR availability and final approval by the WG), and was probably the first HQ in the respective SNRs, Centre and Cell Chiefs. NATO environment in general to develop To increase the number of participants such a programme. and, most especially, to encourage our The overall idea of the Senior junior ranks to take part, the NCOTMTC NCOs during the monthly NCO National is always scheduled during a period of Representative Working Group Meetings, 14 days with the opportunity to compete chaired by the Command’s Senior Enlisted during one of these days. Officers, Leader and SNCO next to the Commander, members of the Guardia Civil and NATO was to ensure additional education and Civilians are also invited to join NCOs in training for our NCOs, apart from the these competitions. activities included in the General Briefing

17 The Informer 3rd NCO TRIATLHON MIXED TEAM COMPETITION SPANISH NATIONAL SUPPORT ELEMENT

To ensure the fairest possible fastest time during one day, counting the conditions, the mixed teams and their total time of each team member during the respective competition dates are decided swimming and running tests plus the time in a public draw. taken to complete the team challenge. In 2010 this team competition event I want to stress the outstanding received a new attribute: Commander Allied performance of this year’s five competing Headquarters Force Command Madrid, LTG Cardona, not only fully supports our NCO activities, but is sponsoring the Team Challenge Trophy for the competition. Furthermore, to make this competition even more attractive, we are going to concentrate on team-challenging tasks. During the 3rd NCOTMTC 10, all teams are going to start the competition with a 200m swim in AF NCO Club ‘Cuatro Vientos’. This is to be followed by a team challenge where teams have to complete a given task. After that, the team has to run teams with 20 active competitors, OR and 5300 m in BDU with trainers on the former OF Grades, from six different nations. RETAMARES training area. During this phase of the competition, it is up to each Besides the enthusiasm and team and their Team Captain to decide on competitive spirit displayed by the teams, the tactics they will employ. I’d like to emphasize the great support given by all the personnel assisting me during preparation and execution of this event, which included Officers and NCOs from different Nations, the Guardia Civil, NCSA, the Spanish and German National Support Elements and external personnel from AF NCO Club ‘Cuatro Vientos’ and the military ambulance. Although our main effort is always focused on fulfilling the many different operational and non-operational tasks assigned to our HQ, I am quite confident that in forthcoming years many more volunteers Finally, the respective teams will from more nations will feel encouraged to receive a second team-challenge task: participate in this competition. Teams are required to race carrying heavy The 2011 edition will be organized weights and additional equipment to the by the USA, and Senior Enlisted Advisor, finish line inside our HQ, in the shortest SGM P. Cartledge, will be in charge of the time possible. The winning team is the preparation and execution of the event. team which completes all disciplines in the

18 MONOGRAPHIC The Informer SPANISH NATIONAL SUPPORT ELEMENT

Written by Col. José de la Cuesta The Spanish NSE was set up in Chief of Spanish NSE 1998 as an embryo support element to the first Foundational Nucleus Seldom, if ever, has an article been established on these premises, initially published at this HQ on the unvoiced intended as a temporary installation. This work carried out by NSEs at all Allied rudiment, after several transformation headquarters, and at ours in particular. processes, would later become today’s Of course, this is not exceptional, if we HQ FC MD. From the very beginning the bear in mind that, as a general rule, the Spanish NSE has provided support to the Force has always been the ‘figurehead’ ambitious project embodied by JCSW while the supporting units have kept looking ‘Further beyond’, then to our a discreetly low profile, manning the former and well loved CC-LAND, which engine rooms, working in the dark, but no reached FOC certification with Exercise less proud of their noble and important Noble Lynx in 2005. mission: To serve others in accomplishing the assigned objectives. The NSE in those early days was mainly occupied with the challenge The successful outcome of the of ‘bringing up’ the new-born JCSW Force, therefore, is the sole satisfaction headquarters and all the hard work that to be gained from the units providing entailed. Now, the Spanish NSE faces the support to the Force. Everyone knows equally challenging task of supporting the that when logistic and real life support new, more dynamic, more operational and activities are imperceptible, they are doing therefore more demanding structure. a truly impeccable job. And unlikely as it may seem, we, your support units, have Thus, the Spanish NSE in 2010 is become accustomed to the knowledge an experienced organization undergoing that silence and monotony are the constant development that has adapted most dependable indicators of efficient its supporting capability to the new service and therefore a source of honest specific requirements of each structural satisfaction. model this HQ has gone through.

Among the various NSEs at FCMD, The Spanish NSE depends the Spanish NSE, as well as supporting organically upon the COM and functionally all Spanish military and civilian personnel on the Spanish Defence Staff (EMAD) posted at the headquarters, plays another and the Directorate General for Defence leading role of great responsibility: To Policy (DIGENPOL) for all SOFA-related handle all the extra challenges that issues. inevitably confront the Host Nation.

19 The Informer MONOGRAPHIC SPANISH NATIONAL SUPPORT ELEMENT

The COM, in his capacity as the most NSEs, etc. In particular, and despite the senior Spanish officer, represents Spain fact that this is external to this HQ, this as Senior National Representative (SNR), office also supports military personnel although he delegates this function in the from other nations party to the agreement Chief of the Spanish NSE for executive who are posted to other missions, such as matters, as well as for maintaining IAFF and EUROFIGHTER at the Getafe functional relations with the SNRs of other Air Base, Madrid. nations represented at our HQ. Services unit. This unit is The Spanish NSE is made up of the responsible, among other tasks, for following Sections and Departments: maintaining the NSE’s premises, armament, and materiel inventory; for the distribution Personnel section. This section of items of uniform and equipment, and provides administrative support to Spanish for maintaining the vehicles assigned to personnel posted to HQ FC MD, keeping the NSE. The section is also responsible records of personal documents, service for providing the HQ’s First Aid post which records, publication of vacancies, awards is available to all members, Spanish and proposals, leave requests and travel foreign. orders, missions, courses and in general any personnel related administrative tasks. Procurement section. This This section also acts as NATO Sub- department handles office supplies for registry for the custody and processing printing and IT equipment, purchases of security clearance accreditation for small items, and keeps invoicing records, Spanish personnel. expenditure proposals, etc.

SOFA Office. This section Secretariat and Registry. This supervises and enforces compliance with section is responsible for the reception, the SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement), control and distribution of official providing information to foreign personnel documentation. regarding the responsibilities and privileges or any other aspect of this Agreement It must be pointed out that the that are relevant to them, such as the Spanish NSE activities are not limited management of military documentation, to the needs of Spanish personnel at weapons documentation, tax exemptions, our HQ. As Host Nation, its support to registration and deregistration from Spanish the international community is threefold: official bodies such as the ministry of Integration and documentation, morale finance, interior or foreign affairs, requests and welfare and training. With regard to for military residences, relations with other the latter, the Spanish NSE liaises with

20 MONOGRAPHIC The Informer SPANISH NATIONAL SUPPORT ELEMENT

other NSEs to procure the use of firing families of members posted to our HQ. ranges for periodic training sessions, Nevertheless, the NSE has always medical support for physical fitness tests endeavoured to go beyond its remit and and hikes, medical examinations and give the maximum assistance possible in vaccination programmes for deployability these spheres, in a spirit of hospitality and certificates, as well as other assistance of neighbourliness. a similar nature. As a result, the NSE staff will always The Spanish NSE, however, despite try to help; even if in doing so they have making an effort to satisfy any request for to exceed their duties, without infringing additional or special support, suffers from national regulations. As a consequence some limitations, most notably regarding of this, certain actions which are offered material, finance and personnel. These freely out of friendship and kindness are difficulties are overcome either with the taken for granted and considered as a NSE’s own resources, part of the NSE staff’s or through requesting obligations. support from sources other than the Spanish Spain is a Defence Staff or the delightful country and, . like any other, it has There is no doubt its own idiosyncrasy. that, occasionally, Likewise, the Spanish the NSE’s duties, are captivated by all your capabilities and nations’ charms, and if shortcomings are not there is one thing we fully understood. This have learned within the explains the occasional bewilderment of NATO community, it is to personnel on hearing appreciate the wonderful that the NSE is unable things each different to provide certain nation has to offer. support or information on a given subject, The essence of such as schools, housing, leisure activities our organization is our deeply ingrained and the like. vocation to serve others, and we treasure Effectively, the NSE is not conceived this as our greatest asset, guiding our to provide comprehensive support to daily work.

21 The Informer PAO THE EXPERIENCE OF A FORWARD ELEMENT

Written by CPT Ortega-Villaizan and its Forward Element. I did not detect DJSE-2 SO PIC how they were linked by people in such important elements as Situation Cell, Joint Coordination Centre and Theater Madrid, May 2010 Engagement Cell. It was exactly 7 months ago when I arrived Battle Rhythm was such a complicated at the former CC-LAND Madrid, now document that one barely expected to Headquarters Force Command Madrid, it succeed with it. is the same place, but now so different. But my biggest This article is written from a Public Affairs problem was Officer’s perspective. I had to start by related with real studying the new NATO structure and life. What in the concepts to be ready to answer any world would I tell question from the press regarding with the to the local and so called concept. I have to admit that I i n t e r n a t i o n a l had no clear of how I, or my office would press when function on deployment. they asked for I had to imagine the relationships between information? Force Command and Public Affairs Office An overall view of and how Component Commands would link the new concept up with us in the new deployment concept. would not be Everything seemed so complicated that, enough. Only by to be honest, I had my doubts about how interacting deep should it work. inside the system, can one survive in this The Battle Staff Training in the middle of process, and this requires a comprehensive March helped me to make clear my doubts. knowledge of the scenario. Injections from the exercise controllers But above all, training was the secret. were solved so rapidly that it was almost Training makes you aware of how Main impossible to follow the process taking Headquarters supported in the field by the place between the decision taking Forward Element and finally the responsible of conducting all planned Operations such are the Component Commands are working all together towards the same objective. Deployment day arrived and all my theoretical expectations, regarding what I thought, could happen were swept by real situations. On arrival at our destination airport, the Real life support’s work started to materialize before me. Everything was flowing automatically. Everything was arranged. Almost three hours after elements, and those who were in charge disembarking, we reached the main gate of conducting the planned Operations. of the Military Unit in which the exercise How it all worked was a mystery to me. It will take place in the following days. The looked so artificial. I was not aware of the wonderful landscapes of eastern France, connection between Main Headquarters near the Swiss border were real.

22 PAO The Informer THE EXPERIENCE OF A FORWARD ELEMENT PUBLIC AFFAIRS MEMBER ON DEPLOYMENT

Petraceros, Kamon (simulated countries All personnel, from the NIMFOR Commander in conflict) and the awful weather were the to the Chief of Joint Coordination Centre NIMFOR personnel’s toughest enemies were aware of the importance of the Public throughout their particular injections. Affairs Office in the management of the Setting up press points, making solutions of the conflict. arrangements with the local and All successfully conducted operations international press or preparing should be shown to the population of the Commander’s countries involved in the proper manner. statements for We have only one way to do this: through release were the local press which highlights the good a frantic part and the bad news every single day. UN of our daily Representatives and Civilian Authorities tasks inside from the countries in conflict appeared the Special continuously with Staff tent. our Commander Our main in frequent Press concern was Conferences and to preserve Public Statements. the capability Our advisory was of making the ready and available at Commander’s all times. aims known Another thing is that It through the is no so easy to appear Media. In this particular case and from in front of the cameras. our position in the Forward Element, we Even when you are were handling the Local press while Main fairly skilled at your in Brunssum, dealt with the International job, journalists can Media. make you fail. To avoid that, no detail was The presence of Mr. Pete Dubois and overlooked. Everything had to be done to Laura Loflin, well- the highest possible known masters of standards to prove Journalism, Media to Cerasian society Press and body (simulated) that the language was a NIMFOR presence luxury for NIMFOR was necessary exercise. They to facilitate their provided training everyday activities and advisory and alleviate their service to our hardships. That was C o m m a n d e r s our job. and Key Leader From my personal members. Once point of view, I firmly again, their wisdom in how to act and believe that we succeeded and now respond was gratefully taken by the Deployable Joint Staff Element number 2 NIMFOR Public Affairs Office as a valuable is “ready to go” gift.

23 The Informer NCO CORNER

Written by CSM Joaquin Cordoba HQ FC Madrid Senior NCO

2010 is proving to be, in my opinion, quite a productive year with regard to NCOs. A great effort is being orchestrated at all levels to publicize the aspirations of NCOs within NATO and to find solutions that will help them achieve their objectives.

On 16 March, just ten days after • To produce a SACT/SACEUR taking command of this HQ, Lieutenant signed memorandum that provides General Cardona attended the monthly a NCO Strategy & a NCO Guideline NR NCO WG meeting where we had the to recognize and strive to enhance opportunity to offer the Commander a the effectiveness of the NATO full update on the NCO Internal Training NCO. Programme and to inform him of all our aspirations and projects. Our Commander • To implement a NATO NCO assured us of his full commitment to Professional Development NCOs’ issues and of the great importance Programme that prepares NCOs to he attaches to our work, pledging his full face the challenges of working in a support. multi-national environment.

On March • To institutionalize the role of a 23, on the occasion Command Senior Enlisted Leader of the SACEUR (SNCO to a command) to optimize C o m m a n d e r s the use of Other Ranks within the C o n f e r e n c e NATO Structure thus promoting at SHAPE, all NCOs’ professional development. Senior Enlisted Leaders within the These initiatives were received in a NATO Command positive spirit, and I believe we shall begin Structure were to see the first results very shortly. invited and ACO SEL CSM Michael BALCH briefed On April 8, just two weeks later, SACEUR directly, in the presence of all the and on occasion of the Commanders other Commanders, on all the initiatives Conference held in Naples, which was that are considered necessary to promote honoured with the presence of COM the figure of the NCO including, among JFC Naples as well as COM FC Madrid, others, the following: COM MC Naples and COM AC Izmir in the company of their respective Senior Enlisted Leaders, SEL JFC NP SGM Thilo

24 The Informer NCO CORNER GNOERICH in his Orientation courses briefing highlighted, available to NATO and once again, the PfP countries. importance during NCOs’ education Although there of having access to is still much to be the certified training done, we are certainly p r o g r a m m e s on the right track and offered at NATO with the support of our schools. This Commanders we shall presentation was continue our untiring followed by another, effort to disseminate given by the Swiss Army School CSM, in the enormous benefits that a professional, which he explained the contribution made highly motivated body of NCOs, who are by his nation to the NCO Development fully aware of their professional capabilities, Programme, making Preliminary, can bring to NATO. Intermediate and Advanced NCO

INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL 2010

As has become a tradition each A lot of children’s fun activities were year at HQ FC Madrid, our famous FOOD prepared, including a magician, a puppet FESTIVAL was celebrated on 18 June. show, face-painting and balloon sculpture, Nine countries took part in organizing this and a wide range of products were available event that offers a variety of attractions. FC from the invited vendors’ stalls. Madrid personnel, their family members and guests took part with enthusiasm in It felt like taking a step back in time the party. when the well-known Spanish old-timer band LOS RELAMPAGOS started their Once again, the Morale and Welfare performance, playing songs from the team did their utmost to ensure that visitors past. They created a captivating, nostalgic felt comfortable, taking care of every minor mood, and everyone, old and young, detail in preparing for the event. enjoyed the evening – especially those who remembered the wonderful 60’s.

25 The Informer VISITORS

COS DJSE1 FC Heidelberg MG Rossmanith 14 Jan 10 DCOM JFC Naples LTG Charles Bouchard 26 Jan 10

Helenic Joint War College 03 Feb 10

JFC Naples CSM THILO GNOERICH 16 Feb 10

Espanish Military School of Law 17 feb 10

Atlantic Association 19 feb 10

German Staff College 26 Mar 10

NATO Infrastructure Committee 12 Apr 10

CRO Secretary of State for Defence Mr Pjier SIMUNIVIC 15 Apr 10

26 The Informer VISITORS VISITORS

LTG Morgan, DCOM JFC Naples COM FC Heidelberg LTG Charles 27 May 10 Bouchard 26 Jan 10 Joint Staff College 20 Apr 10

PREVENTION MEASURES IN SUMMER The international - Become familiar with emergency plans would like to provide you with some end equipment. information about crime prevention during this summer. During your holiday:

Firstly, protect your home: - Be aware of your surroundings. - Carry only the necessary documents with - Avoid giving unnecessary information about you. your traveling plans to you neighbors. - Strip your wallet or purse of unneeded - Engage the deadbolt and keep the alarm items. Atlantic Association system activated. - Carry your wallet or purse in front. 19 feb 10 - Keep entrances and stairways well lit. - In crowded areas keep your hand on your Motion light is an effective prevention wallet or purse. measure. - If possible take a friend with you. - Automatic timer should be used for lights or radio. Attention: - Have someone collect your mail. Not every policeman is a - Unplug or turn off telephone ringers if you policeman. If someone approaches you in have not answering machine. civilian clothes and identified him or herself - Make a list of your home equipment for as police officer, could be a fake. insurance purposes, e.g. money, jewels or other luxury items. Do not give your wallet or belongings to anybody, ask for uniformed police or ask When you arrive at your holiday resort: to go to the Police station. If your demands are not followed call the emergency phone - Know your hotel employees. on your holiday resort. (112 National - Ask for a hotel safe box. Emergencies phone number). - Do not disclose your room number indiscriminately. The Provost Marshal Branch - Know the emergency exists, entrances, wishes you and your family a nice holiday elevators and stairwells. and come back in good health.

27 A lake in FCMD

Picture taken behind building 16 during last winter.