Camp Marechal de Lettres de Tassigny

The 30th mandate doubly multinational!Differently from the previous French brigades thathave constituted till now the frame of Task ForceNorth, the 30th mandate is noted for thecommitment of both its head quarter and the units ofthe French-German brigade that, daily serve andlearn a multi-national mode.As a result of the initiative, in an approach ofreconciliation, to gather the old enemies in the sameforce, the French-German brigade is now a big unitthat successfully participates in operationalmissions. The last engagement of its Headquarterwas in Afghanistan on 2005.Since January the Headquarter has been deployed inNovo Selo having under its orders the FREBATwhich is composed of the FGB personals, theCSSBAT armed by France and the contingents ofour allies with the Danish, the Moroccan and theGreek battalions. The cooperation with them isexcellent on this sensitive area in the north ofKosovo characterized by the multiethnic city ofMitrovica and real separation line betweencommunities. Missions are not missing and everyone is doing tasks with professionalism. Long Duration Patrols, convoyescorts, patrols in Mitrovica and the enclaves, CIMIC operations of all kinds. In this stabilizing phase theforce's action is conducted in a more and more discrete way. So it is to remind the populace that the task forceis present to pave the way for the security and stability conditions favourable for the return of normal life foreveryone, without any distinction. In this context, the diversity of the task force's soldiers is proof of amulticultural approach favorable to the understanding of each other.Unfortunately, tension issues remain numerous and the question of returnees is now in the core ofpreoccupations. KFOR is, therefore, an essential and an avoidable actor so as to guarantee and maintain peace. Doubly multinational, the French-German brigade's soldiers know very well what the words reconciliation andcommon future mean. Having those soldiers in such a context of opposition between two communities hasobviously an interesting symbolic value. What our two peoples have overwhelmed and then built together iswell known, even by the Balkan people.In this way, with their allies, they will continue working for the best of the Kosovo population, certain thattheir efforts and their commitment for all people are not in vain.

Brigadier General Philippe Bras

CommanderCommander KFOR:KFOR:Lt. Gen. Giuseppe E. GayLt. Gen. Giuseppe E. Gay, ,

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April 1, 2009 April 1, 2009 Lieutenant General Giuseppe E. Gay, Commander of KFOR,presented the KFOR Unity of Efforts Crest to Major GeneralJaime Dominguez Buj, the Chief of Staff of Operations for theSpanish Command Headquarters.

April 2, 2009 April 2, 2009 COM KFOR greeted the United Nations Mission inKosovo (UNMIK) Chief of Staff, Mr. Robert E.Sorenson.

April 3, 2009 April 3, 2009 The Kosovo Force Commander had a meeting with newChief Military Liaison Officer to UNMIK, Brigadier GeneralSati Bahadir Köse in KFOR Headquarters.

April 12, 2009 April 12, 2009 KFOR Commander Lieutenant General Giuseppe E.Gay greeted Italian soldier at Easter Celebration inFilm City's Casa Italia.

April 16, 2009 April 16, 2009 COM KFOR attended a briefing given to Heads ofMissions/Representatives of Troops Contributing Nations inKFOR Headquarters' "Batcave".

April 17, 2009 April 17, 2009 The Kosovo Force Commander entertained delegation ofTurkish General Officers on a visit to KFOR Headquarters.

April 19, 2009April 19, 2009The Kosovo Force Commander, Lieutenant GeneralGiuseppe E. Gay went to visit Bishop Teodosije ofLipljan, the Abbot of Decani Monastery in Decane,Kosovo during the Orthodox Easter Holiday.

April 20, 2009April 20, 2009COM KFOR greeted Admiral Tim Sloth Jørgensen, theDanish Chief of Defense in front of the KFORHeadquarters building.

April 20, 2009 April 20, 2009 KFOR Commander Lieutenant General Giuseppe E. Gaywith Dr. Samuel Zbogar, Slovenian Minister for ForeignAffairs, during a visit to KFOR Headquarters.

April 21, 2009 April 21, 2009 COM KFOR met Metropolitan Amfilohije, theMetropolitan of Montenegro, the Coastal lands andSkenderia and observed a tradition with Easter eggsduring his visit to the Pec Patriarchate.

Story by Captain Johannes C. Moore (OF-2, US Air Force)Images: screen-captures from theaircraft's video.

In order to create a safe and secureenvironment in Kosovo, situationalawareness is critical. For commandersdistant from the action, if they don'tknow what is occurring on the ground,any planned response by KFOR wouldbe only a guess. One of the primarytools available to all commanders inKosovo to obtain this awareness is theHQ J2 Branch's airborne intelligence,surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)platform.Although "airborne ISR" soundsimpressive, in Kosovo it just involves afleet of small contracted Cessnaairplanes. However, these simpleaircraft are modified with state-of-the-art sensors and secure communications

equipment, enablingthem to roam the skiesover Kosovo andprovide visibility ofwhat's happening.KFOR has contractsfunded by NATO to flyhundreds of hours everymonth morning, noon,and night to supportKFOR's mission.Although many theatersemploy the use ofunmanned aerialvehicles (UAVs), the aircraft used byKFOR are manned by pilots and sensoroperators. The planes are capable offlying at low and high altitudes,providing flexibility to counterunforgiving terrain and weather. Theaircraft have a sensor that houses bothan electro-optical (EO) and infrared(IR) camera. This gives KFOR theability to monitor target areas, activity,and personnel day or night.Additionally, the zoom capabilityallows us to observe targets andactivities from various altitudes. Thisis important because airborne ISR isused for many missions:reconnaissance prior to an operation,

discreetly watching people, andmonitoring the AdministrativeBoundary Line (ABL) betweenKosovo and its neighbors. Using ourasset over protests, demonstrations,and other troublesome areas also givesus visibility of the "ground truth".Without knowing exactly what'shappening and how many people areinvolved, commanders are likely torespond with too few troops or toomany, which could escalate a problemrather than solve it. In this way,airborne ISR enables leaders torespond appropriately and quickly tomany situations.Unlike other airborne ISR assets, ouraircraft are capable of recording full-motion video and transmitting it inreal-time to KFOR HQ, where the JointOperations Center, COMKFOR's eyesand ears, can view the video feed asevents occur. After the mission, we candistribute these videos and photos viaDVD to those with a need to monitorthe mission. This also allows archivingfor further analysis later.The J2 Imagery Intelligence (IMINT)section manages the high volume ofcompeting requirements and has theresponsibility to direct our asset tosatisfy specific collection demands.Led by an American Air Force Captain(OF-2), two Greek Lieutnenants (OF-1) and a Royal Air Force (RAF) seniornon-commissioned officer (SNCO),

the team prioritizes support requests usingCOMKFOR's Priority Intelligence Requirements(PIRs). PIRs identify critical information theCommander and staff need to understand theadversary and operational environment. Becausethere are more demands than aircraft available, theteam often makes difficult decisions to select whichrequests are the most vital to COMKFOR's mission.After scheduling, our analysts (one GR OF-1 and theUK OR-6) must control the missions. Using anencrypted video downlink from the aircraft and asecure radio, the IMINT analysts direct where theaircraft goes, what it looks at, and which camera (EOor IR) to use. MNTF Liaison Officers, experts intheir area of responsibility, sit with the imageryanalyst to relay information between the groundforces and the analyst.For commanders who require better situationalawareness, the IMINT team has several deployable kits available which include a video monitor and enough battery power tolast for an entire day, permitting tactical leaders to monitor operations from a location near the target area while maintainingcontact with an intelligence analyst via secure radio. These mobile ground stations allow users in a deployed command post- or even a moving vehicle - to monitor the battlespace.An airborne ISR asset provides unmatched capability; without it, a commander is literally blind to threats to his mission.Fortunately for KFOR, our Commander has a tool that provides indispensable information, and a team to exploit thatinformation for timely, accurate intelligence. Together, they play acritical role in ensuring a safe and secure future for Kosovo.

Story by MSU G2 CHIEF, (OF1) Roberto PetragliaPhotos by MSU Carabinieri

The Multi-national Specialized Unit (MSU)concept dates back to 1998, when in BosniaGen. Wesley Clark decided to create amilitary force with a police background,capable to bridge the gap betweenconventional military forces and the civilpolice forces which, particularly at thebeginning of the mission, are not ready tocope with major crimes or to face civildisturbances; in fact, the MSU members areboth policemen and soldiers.During the years, the MSU has been deployedin Bosnia - Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovoand Iraq, always performing its duties of amilitary force with general police capabilities.The MSU Regiment has always beencharacterized by the presence of severalforeigners' structures. Particularly, in Kosovowhere deployed Italian Carabinieri, Estonianand French Gendarmes are. The leadership of

the MSU has always belonged to Carabinieri.In 2005, Estonia withdrew its own troopsfrom the KFOR mission; then, when theEULEX mission started, French gendarmespassed under this new mission, as also someCarabinieri units. So at present the MSURegiment has reduced its personnel, that is,constituted just by Carabinieri, coming fromterritorial or mobile units in Italy, that bringtheir experience and capabilities in thecountries where stability and peace are indanger.Unlike other Multi-national Task Forces(MNTFs), the MSU is a Kosovo-wide asset.The MSU is granted freedom of movementand free access in all areas of Kosovo inwhich it is tasked to operate.The MSU has a multitude of particular andspecific tasks. Especially, through its EscortTeam, the MSU provides escorts for militaryand civilian VIPs, military convoys and everyunforeseensituation thatrequests a

security framework. Escorts are oftenperformed with the use of hard cars, anddrivers as well as other soldiers, havereceived special and additional training thatqualifies them as Close Protection Teamoperators. Due to its police background, the MSU isskilled in Crowd Riot Control (CRC)techniques, it means that the MSU isCOMKFOR Quick Reaction Force for publicorder situation and counter-civil disturbancesoperations and the MSU members are alsoadvisors for the CRC training of KFORMNTFs.In the field of improvement and growth of thecapabilities of local authorities, the MSUemploys its instructors in specific courses forKosovo Police members. Particularly,several training courses have been held in thelast period, regarding search and arresttechniques, K9 units, and from Italy, Criminal

InvestigationScene cases will beprovided.The Kosovo Policeoperators will betrained, in thisspecial task, byCarabin ie r i

personnel from Scientific Investigations Group in Rome, adepartment that in Italy analyses ballistic, organic and any otherkind of detectable evidence, providing its qualified legal advice toPublic Prosecutor and Court. The MSU Regiment performs through its Battalion, dailypresence patrols and info-gathering activities, and its personnelgains situational awareness and earns population trust by gettingin touch with the well-known as well as the humble people.Every man, every woman, and every child counts. MSUsafeguards the dignity of everyone with no regards to race, ethnicor religious differences.When a platoon is not assigned to framework missions, itperforms training activity in the MSU Camp or in Camp Vrelofacility, and performs guard duty.The MSU doesn't have G9 for CIMIC activities, but it performsthem door to door. During patrols, Carabinieri talk toMunicipalities majors or priests with the aim to know where aperson in need lives. Then, Carabinieri contacts these people toverify if they truly need help, so indispensable goods areprovided, even in remote places. The MSU Medical Section takes care that not only militarypersonnel but also civilians in need of medical aid, receivequalified assistance by medics and paramedics from the MSU.The actual KFOR-MSU is placed in Pristina and the varioussectors in which the duty is performed, and the results obtainedshow the concept of the Specialized Unit well corresponding tothe actual safe and secure environment exigencies, in aframework of specific and very particular competences whichalso regard social problems.

Story and photos by 1/Lt Maria Palsson, PIO SWECON

“Our broadcasts in both Serbian and Albanian are verypopular with 15-30 year olds across the whole ofKosovo,’’explains the head of KFOR-radio David Bailey,as he is about to do an interview with a Swedish KFOR-soldier and DJ. "Why was I not aware that one of the KFOR-soldiers is aClub-DJ? And now you are going back home to Sweden,"exclaims Bailey and leans forward to ask more questions.Private Daniel Marffy is just ending his tour of duty inKosovo and is about to go back home to Sweden where hewill take up DJ'ing again. "I miss playing in clubs after six months in Kosovo. So Iam looking forward to doing that again when I get home.I mix and produce my own music and since there is a story

behind every track I know some songs willdefinitely reflect my time in Kosovo." "Radio KFOR has been operational for nineyears. And since 2007 we’ve broadcasted ontwo frequencies instead of only one, givingeach major language audience in Kosovo their‘own’ service," says David Bailey.The station broadcasts in Albanian (FM 90.2FM Kosovo-wide ) and in Serbian (96.6 FMKosovowide) 24 hours a day all week long.The station has a staff of about 30, comprisedof presenters, journalists as well as KFORmilitary Psychological Operations personnel. The radio station is a part of HQ KFORPSYOP and broadcasts the latest internationalchart hits together with the best of local music,news and "influence" messages about tolerance, anti corruption, anti violence, etc. which are an integral and important part ofsupporting the KFOR mission objectives.“There is a growing club-scene in Kosovo; especially in Pristina at the moment and international DJs have started to visitregularly,” explains David. "We are also aiming to develop our programming so that Radio KFOR becomes the natural club-station for our listeners on the weekends. And we stream on the internet from our website as well". "On Sundays from 5 pm to 7 pm I have the only English language-show on Radio KFOR and it is during my show that theinterview with Daniel Marffy will air," says David Bailey. "It was fun to be interviewed. I often listened to Radio KFOR in the car during our patrols. I hope the listeners will like mymusic," says Daniel Marffy.

Story by John C. Wallace (OF-4) US Army and Vadym Tymoshenko (OF-4) Ukrainian ArmyPhotos by Sara Narandzic

On April 14th, 2009, the first KFOR LEGAD (Legal Advisor) conference of this year tookplace in Film City. The conference was opened by KFOR Chief Of Staff BrigadierGeneral David H. Berger.

Having welcomed attendees, in his speech General Berger outlined his vision of the roleof legal advisers. To his mind, the advisor has to serve as a consultant. LEGAD is

always to make recommendations to the commander what he could do in a specificsituation, rather than trying to teach soldiers to act. In doing so, LEGAD must actprofessionally to ensure the commander's flexibility in decision-making.

Addressing the audience, General Berger underlined there is a need to think now about issues whichKFOR personnel will face in a year or two.Chief KFOR LEGAD Colonel Giancarlo Cremonini noted the main challenging points to bediscussed in the meeting. The LEGAD Conference was the first of what will be a regular event in KFOR. The purpose isto provide an opportunity for the legal personnel from the multi-national task forces and theHeadquarters to meet and discuss a variety of legal issues. According to Lieutenant ColonelJohn Wallace, the Deputy LEGAD, it is important for the legal personnel within KFOR tohave an opportunity to share information. At the conference, each MNTF LEGAD provideda brief update regarding their area of operations and specific legal issues facing them. Thiswas followed by discussions of several legal topics of interest to the legal staff. Theconference was well received, with Lieutenant Colonel David Kauffman, of MNTF-E,stating that the conference was"Great" and an excellentopportunity to meet andexchange ideas. As noted, thiswill be a regular event withinKFOR.

Story by (OF-3) Markus Wallner (Austrian Army)Photo by (OR-7) Thomas Gangl

On Sunday 5 April 2009, the solemntransfer of command at ManeuverBattalion Dulje took place at CampCasablanca - the responsibilities weretransferred from the 19th to the 20thAustrian Kosovo Contingent.

Solemn ceremonySolemn ceremonyIn the framework of a solemnceremony, the Commander ofMultinational Task Force South,Brigadier General Thomas Starlinger,handed over the command of theAustrian-Swiss Maneuver Battalionfrom Lieutenant Colonel ManfredHofer to Lieutenant Colonel UlfriedKhom.

Contributing to good developmentContributing to good developmentof Kosovoof Kosovo

Lieutenant Colonel Khom: "Now thatthe process of reconstruction isongoing, it is necessary to closelycooperate with the local organizations.I consider my task to contribute to agood development by working togetherwith the population and the people incharge in this region." After anextensive preparation for this missionin Kosovo it's now to put thisknowledge into action. For example,the soldiers were trained to handlecrowds, riots and furthermore toevacuate persons of special interest.But the most common task is to patrolthe area of responsibility and ensurethe freedom of movement. Khom addsin his speech: "In general the missionin Kosovo, and in particular takingover responsibility of the ManeuverBattalion Dulje is an interestingchallenge. It is a worthwhile task toensure a contribution for a safe andsecure environment."

Smooth transferSmooth transferIn Austria, Ulfried Khom is theCommander of the South-Styrian 17thInfantry Battalion, whose staff officersand NCOs have accompanied him onhis tour to Kosovo. In his inauguralspeech, the 45-year-old Styrianthanked his predecessor, LieutenantColonel Manfred Hofer, for the smoothand companionate transfer ofresponsibility for the mission.

Story and photos by Lieutenant Colonel (OF-4) Vadym Tymoshenko (Ukrainian ArmedForces)

On April 10th, 2009, the Ukrainian contingent ofKFOR Transfer of Authority ceremony took placein the location of the Ukrain ian nationalcontingent Camp Breza Multi-national TaskForce-East (MNTF-E). The Ukrainian nationalcontingent is part of the Polish-UkrainianBattalion (POLUKRBAT). The event was attended by MNTF-E CommanderBrigadier General Keith D. Jones, his deputyColonel Tom Loomis, MNTF-E Task ForceSABER Commander Lieutenant Colonel LarsStaak, and his Chief Of Staff Major JamesWesterfield, POLUKRBAT CommanderLieutenant Colonel Mariusz Galeziowski, andPOLUKRBAT Chief Of Staff Major RyszardLeszowsky, as well as distinguished guests from

Ukraine. The head ofthe StrpceMunicipality Mr.Stanko Jakovljevichwas also in attendance. After the Ukrainian peacekeepers lined-up and metdistinguished visitors the ceremony was opened by the NationalAnthem of Ukraine. In a solemn atmosphere the POLUKRBAT battle flag transfertook place. 11th rotation Ukrainian national contingentCommander Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Komisarov and hissuccessor Lieutenant Colonel Volodymyr Veremchuk reportedto MNTF-E Commander about Transfer of Authority. In his speech, the MNTF-E Commander thanked Ukrainian

peacekeepers for the exemplarymanner in carrying out their duties.In his turn, the POLUKRBATCommander Lieutenant Colonel

Mariusz Galeziowski stressed as proof of good service of theUkrainian peacekeepers is a stable situation in the area ofresponsibility and the positive attitudes of the local residents.In his closing speech, the new Ukrainian contingent CommanderLieutenant Colonel Volodymyr Veremchuk assured those presentthat the 12th rotation will continue the tradition of theirpredecessors with dignity. The Ukrainian National contingent 12 isable to conduct their missions on their own with the knowledgethey have picked up from their counterparts and the skills theyhave gained through the past four month training at the MarinesCombat Training Center in Ukraine.With the Transfer of Authority complete, the Ukrainian soldiersare ready to provide a safe and secure environment for the peopleof Kosovo.

Story by First Lt. Hasan Tahsin VANLI Photos by Turkish Combat Photo Team

Southern Home Saber Joint Crowd Rriot Control (CRC) exercise wasimplemented on the 14th of March. The exercise was established on the followingsituation; although there has not been any major social disorder in recent yearsaround Prizren, fundamental wing of a particular Nongovernmental Organization(NGO) which is famous for its uncompromising ethos intensified its activities andpropaganda in this area. Due to the latest political developments, a series ofdemonstrations were initialized on big cities against international community bythis NGO. Intelligence assets obtained the information that a big demonstration against the

presence of International Organizations would take place in our area of responsibility. It is estimated that a violent group may try to trespass ontothe Regional HQ of an International Organization to commit violence against internationals. On proposal of Multi-National Task Force-South(MNTF-S), COMKFOR decided to activate Property with Designated Status (PrDSS) for this Regional HQ in Prizren.According to this scenario the Southern Home Saber (SHS) Crowd and Riot Control (CRC) exercise was implemented on the 14th of March bythe Kosovo Police (KP) Regional Operations Support Unit (ROSU), EULEX Police and Kosovo Force (KFOR) CRC Unit with the attendance ofthe commander of MNTF-S Brigadier General Thomas Starlinger, Chief Of Staff MNTF-S Colonel Yahya Bacak, and Turkish NCC . On behalf of MNTF-S this exercise was planned, coordinated and performed by Turkish Man Bn Dragas at Camp Sultan Murat. During the exercise no injuries occurred and the aggressive demonstrators were dissolved without any major incidents. At the end of the exerciseall of the participants, especially KP ROSU, proved their abilities to handle this kind of events. The SHS, KP ROSU, EULEX and KFOR CRC units had the chance to make coordinated efforts against crowd riots. In the exercise a Joint LiaisonPost (JLP) was established for the first time and the coordination among the units was achieved efficiently via this JLP. In this JLP there wereliaison officers from all participant units. According to the Blue and Red Box concept KFOR CRC Unit took formation in the red box and the blue box was protected by KP ROSU andEULEX Police. As the premier responder of CRs KP ROSU was the first to defend the PrDSS and EULEX was the second to take the responsibility.

When the demonstrators advanced to the red box KFOR CRC unit took over theprotective task as the third line responder. The main effort of the Southern HomeSaber was the coordination among the units and trying hand-over take-overprocess successively from KP ROSU to EULEX Police and from EULEX Policeto the KFOR CRC Unit during the exercise. The commander of Man Bn Dragas, Lt. C. Mehmet Nail YIGIT said, "There is a saying, 'Train as you fight and fight as you train.' Because of that, we must take allnecessary precautions to make a real scene of the situation. By this way we cantrain our leaders and soldiers for the upcoming threats." In the light of his opinions,to be more realistic, demonstrators used special easily breakable sticks, some itemssymbolizing rocks. Also a ruin car was put on fire by demonstrators during theexercise. On the other hand, every means of precaution to protect our soldiers from an unexpected injuries were taken. For this reason demonstrators wore CRC uniformsand the usage of tear gase was animated by smoke grenades. During the exercise all the possible events which a CRC unit may be subjected took place successively according to the scenario. A wounded soldierwas evacuated by medical helicopter, a snatch team was used forgetting a provocateur, a K9 was used to deter the crowd. Alsodemonstrators increased the tension, and they used any kind of meansto show their determination to reach the PrDSS. At the end of the exercise Brig Gen. Starlinger, made an address to theparticipant units and the spectators. He mentioned the importance ofthis kind of exercises to make coordinated efforts for the KFORmission, pointed out the necessity of a Joint Liaison Post for makingefforts well coordinated, and said, "We should take as a model the JLPestablished in Southern Home Saber." Also Brig Gen Starlinger noticedthat seeing the KP ROSU is capable of handling CRC missions is veryimportant for the Republic of Kosovo and for KFOR.

Story by OF-1 Mateja Vadnjal and OF-1 Jure HimelrajhPhotos by OR-3 Robert Cotic PIO TF Sokol Slovenian Armed Forces

In March, Battle Group Sokol hastaken over the responsibility of the 640km2 area of municipalities of Klina andPec/Peje for the second time. February2007 marked the first time thatSlovenian Armed Forces took overtheir own area of responsibility(municipalities of Pec/Peje and Klina)in a theatre of operations. 500 membersof the 10th Motorized Battalion,organized into the "Sokol" (Hawk)Task Force (TF), as well as about 100members of other SAF units weredeployed to that operation. This wasthe first time in the history of Sloveniathat a battalion-level unit participatedin a crisis response operation having acompany of 150 Hungarian ArmedForces members under its command.The majority of the 19th Sloveniancontingent, under the command ofLieutenant Colonel Pavel Jereb, isstationed at Villago Italia base inPec/Peje. TF Sokol is comprised of 570male and female members of theSlovenian and Hungarian ArmedForces, of whom 341 are members ofthe SAF (Slovenian Armed Forces).The framework unit is once more the10th Motorized Battalion whichpresents the major part of the

Command, two Motorized companiesand a Logistics Platoon. Maneuverunits are performing vehicle patrols,foot patrols and territory surveillancein the area of responsibility, whichcomprises the municipalities ofPec/Peje and Klina. In TF Sokol thereis also the Civil-Military CooperationGroup, Military Police Section,Infirmary ROLE-1 and an EngineerSection. TF Sokol is operating underthe Command of the MultinationalTask Force - West (MNTF-W) inPec/Peje, KFOR Command in Pristina,as well as within the KFOR LiaisonGroup and National Support Element(NSE).In the beginning of September themembers of the TF Sokol will concludetheir 6-month mission in Kosovo andtransfer their area of responsibility tothe other Slovenian battalion group.The latter will include the command ofBG, two companies, a Slovenianengineer group, CIMIC group, MilitaryPolice Squad, ROLE-1 medical facilityand logistic combat support elementfor Slovenian members who will alsoperform duties at the Command of thenew battle group. The Slovenian LMT group is operatingin the municipality of Klina. They haveestablished good relationships with thelocal population, which enables themto experience the political, economicand social atmosphere in the area.Members of the Slovenian military are

well accepted by the local population,which is essential for the safety of theSlovenian troops that are in dailycontact with the population of allnationalities living within their area ofoperations. An anonymous and non-obligatory survey has been conductedamong the local inhabitants in the areaof municipalities Pec/Peje and Klina.The survey revealed the reasons forsuch a cordial attitude of localinhabitants towards the Slovenianmilitary.The survey showed that SAF membersenjoy great trust of all ethnic groups,which is mainly due to their kindness,readiness to help and offering of moralsupport by listening. Also, the projectsof CIMIC and engineer groupscontribute to improvement of living

conditions in the area and enhancemutual trust. The inhabitants alsoappreciate the possibility tocommunicate directly with themilitary in a common language. Thesurvey highlighted respectful andimpartial attitude of SAF memberstowards the local population which,on the other hand, objects to thearrogant and underestimatingattitude of some foreigners in theircountry. All of the above-mentionedfacts are the reason that localinhabitants respect the Slovenianmilitary in their country, although theyare aware that SAF members havefewer financial resources for assistanceprojects at their disposal as themembers of other armed forces.

For the execution of their tasks, SAFmembers had at their disposal armorpersonnel carriers Valuk and Humvee,transport trucks UNIMOG, TAM150,off-road vehicles MB270CDI andother specific logistic vehicles. Forpersonal weapons they use theautomatic rifle F2000 (5,56mmBelgium production), semi-automaticpistol Berretta FS92 (9mm), lightmachine gun MINIMI (5,56mmm) andpersonal equipment form protectionand CRC equipment. For crew servedweapons they use MAG 7,62mmm,Browning M2 QCB and automaticgrenade launcher 40mmm. The 15th of May is the Day ofSlovenian Armed Forces and 25th ofJune is Slovenian National Day.

Story by Captain Artur AvagyanPhotos by 1st Lt. Arsen Mangasaryan

As a member of the United Nations (UN), Armenia alsoassumed the responsibility to participate in theinternational community's efforts to maintain andstrengthen peace. And so the Republic of Armenia hasmade a landmark decision in August 2001 to contributeto world peace, and accordingly a memorandum betweenthe UN and the Republic of Armenia was signed.The Armenian Peacekeeping Mission in Kosovo began in2003, when the first contingent, totally 34 Soldiers,arrived in Multi-National Task Force East and wasstationed at camp Regas Fereos, near Urosevac/Ferijaicity, Kosovo. In June 2008, the Armenian contingentincreased their forces, by size of company 70 PAX, 2platoons. The first platoon has the Quick Reaction Forces(QRF) mission, Crowd Riot Control in the HellenicBattalion area of responsibility. The Second Platoon doesbase security, Vehicle Check Point (VCP) and patrollingin the Urosevac/Ferijai city, in cooperation with theHellenic Forces. Also, the Armenian Coy is activelyparticipating in TACRESand Nothing HillOperations. TheA r m e n i a nc o n t i n g e n trotates every6 months, inD e c e m b e rand June.

“We are proud working with the members of the Hellenic family, thus far, and lookforward to continue in the same outstanding manner. For us, it is a great pleasure toparticipate in KFOR by providing a safe and secure environment for all the people,regardless of ethnicity. It is a good opportunity to cooperate with multi-national forces,exchanging our experiences, skills, working together for the peace. This mission is alsoto learn and understand other nations, cultures, and make good relationships with them,which is very important for further peace in the world. Our soldiers are professionallytrained peacekeepers, putting their best effort foward to complete the mission. We arevery proud to be one small member of the big KFOR family. It is also nice to seeanother country and meet new people.”At the end, as an Armenian Contingent Commander, “I would like to thank allcommanders and soldiers in Kosovo, for their excellent cooperation and I wish yougood luck in the mission and all the best.”

Story by Nuno Alexandre Vieira FernandesTEN INF (BCoy DCOM)

If I could define my present state of mind(and most certainly the state of mind ofthe 289 other Soldiers of KTM) using asentence or motto, it would certainly be(…) HONOUR YOUR COUNTRYAND YOUR MOTHERLAND WILLBEHOLD YOU(…).THE military calling reveals itself thru aseries of small things. The affection feltfor a relative on active service, thespecial feeling when speaking aboutPortuguese history, especially militaryhistory, and the desire to live newadventures, together with the possibilityof helping our fellowmen conquering

through PEACE, what we, thePortuguese, had to conquer by ourBLOOD. These are my thoughtswhen I think about my tour inKosovo. The respect for those who,like us, fought for Portugal,especially those who traded theirblood for land, fighting for ourmotherland can be seen on the prideand honor that the Soldiers of KTMparticipate on any ceremony wherethe national flag is present. As theyare singing our national anthem, oursolders look at the flag, even at a fardistance, and will think that our flagenclosures nine centuries of historyand tradition.On moments like the Transfer OfAuthority, held on March 24th,2009, between TF MIKE and the 1stInfantry Battalion, it's our flag that tell us that our motherland is with us, giving us thestrength and confidence to embrace this adventure with determination andperseverance.Personally, carrying our national flag to be hoisted up is a moment of great meaning tome, because I carry Portugal close to my heart, even though I am in a distant land. Bydoing that I have the opportunity to show all attendees, the pride I have in our flag andto do everything so that her, just like a mother, feels pride in her sons!Like TORGA, a Portuguese writer, said and I quote: "Only in her we can breathe fully,her instinct sooths, her intellect effulgence, its past has meaning and its present has afuture2"

From the solders of the 1st Infantry Battalion we can be sure that theywill never hoist our flag up side down!3

May the example given by D. Duarte de Almeida4, for its bravery andpride to be Portuguese in our minds at all times!Bravo Coy (BCoy) will do everything to honour its motto "HONOURAND GLORY!"

1 Motto of José da Silva Mendes Leal authorship, that in 1863 legislatedso, when he was minister of Navy and Overseas (1820-1886). Throughhis life he pointed out as a writer, journalist, diplomat and politician.

2 In"O Dia de 11 de Setembro de 1976"

3 Indicates a form of surrendering before a foreign military force.

4Alferes-mor of king Afonso V, and to whom was entrusted the Portugueseroyal bannerol, on the Battle of Toro, which took place on March the 1st,1476. inferior in number, the Portuguese had fallen in disorder,abandoning the royal pavilion. Duarte de Almeida, on a supreme effort,holds again the flag and defends it with heroic bravery. With one chop, his right hand is cut off;indifferent to pain, he holds with his left the banderol entrusted to his honour and loyalty; theychop his left hand as well; Duarte de Almeida, desperate, holds it with his teeth and thorn,shredded, eyes on fire, still resists, always resists. When the Castilians surrounded him,spears fell on the heroic Alferes-mor, who falls, dying.The Castilians seize the Flag, but Gonçalo Piresmanaged to hold it back. This act of heroismwas admired by the enemy itself.

Story and photos by Spc. Darriel Swatts

CAMP BONDSTEEL, KOSOVO - A young man, no more than21 years old, sits on a packed bus knowing that he is about toparticipate in a riot. He doesn't know how the day is going to turnout; all he knows is his role in the upcoming chaos. The bus stopsand his leader shouts one last bit of instruction to the 85 eagerpassengers, "Go out their and see if you can get one of theirshields or try to get one of them. Let's show them what we'remade of." The crowd of young men rushes off to meet their fateagainst the waiting riot controllers. This was the experience of the Soldiers from Alpha Troop, 1stSquadron, 18th Cavalry Regiment, Task Force Sabre, as theytook part in a multi-national riot-control training exercise withFrench and Portuguese troops at Camp Vrelo, which is in theMulti-National Task Force-Central sector of Kosovo. TheCavalry Soldiers, who exchanged their combat equipment and uniforms for civilian clothes and essential body armor, acted as riotersand allowed the foreign soldiers to practice their riot-control techniques.The reason why the Azusa, California based unit participated in this early March event was to give them an idea of what it is likebeing the rioters. It helps them think what an angry mob might do and be better prepared in the event they come face-to-face withthose individuals bent on making a scene.

"This training gave my guys an opportunity tosee and experience what it is like on the opposingforce," said 1st Sgt. John Wheeler, Alpha Troop'sfirst sergeant. "It allows us to anticipate what thecrowd may or may not do. Ultimately, thepurpose of learning how to control a riot is beingable to restore peace," said Wheeler.The day started off with a peacefuldemonstration during the first scenario. Alphatroop Soldiers were pitted against the

Portuguese, built to be a first responding riot-control team, where they tried to calm the demonstrators with words. Whennegotiations failed they switched out with the French team, who were brought in to suppress the crowd as tensions rose. Frenchsoldiers, who were visiting from the Multi-National Task Force-North sector, began lobbing tear gas (CS) canisters to disperse theunruly crowd. Knowing how to employ CS is a critical part of crowd control and so is evacuating the injured. Both were tested earlyas part of the exercise to make sure all possible outcomes were performed to standard. The evaluators grading the training gave anod of approval as the first scenario came to an end."When the French came in to assist the Portuguese, that's when theybegan to CS everybody," said Spc. Joshua Navarro. "They made itimpossible to do anything because they kept gassing us."During the second phase the "Cav" soldiers were told to hold nothingback and go full strength against the riot-controllers. The troopsgathered sticks, half-full water bottles, and whatever else they couldget their hands on to use in the upcoming riot. The adrenaline-filledSabre troops rushed out to confront the French again. Once again awall of CS gas went up and newly added razor wire was laid down toblock them from getting too close. Mother Nature was on their sidethis time as wind swept the gas harmlessly aside and the wire wasmoved and the tide turned in favor of the rioters. The French started toget overwhelmed so a vehicle was brought in to push the mob back.Different techniques were put to use as part of the exercise to gaugewhat worked and what had limited success."With the CS everywhere we had to disperse and regroup in order tocontinue with the riot," said Pfc. Joshua Gregory, recalling the amountof canisters thrown at them as they tried to disrupt any attempt atgaining control over the mayhem.The Soldiers from Camp Bondsteel were successful in grabbingshields throughout the day and pulling some of the Portuguese riot-control team members from the line. The foreign troops were alsosuccessful as order was eventually restored with the Portuguesereplacing the French and rolled in two armored personnel carrierscalled Bravia Chaimites. "The training was supposed to be as realistic as possible, withoutallowing anybody to get hurt," Wheeler said. Despite the amounts ofprojectiles flying through the air and clashes of bodies against riotshields, no one was injured."It was a fun way to interact with our allies and it was a good wayto get to know them," said Spc. Carl Nall.Safety observers and evaluators brought the day's training eventto a close. The chance for each countries soldier to train and testeach other in riot control is an opportunity to understand and trustin the capabilities of the person who could be standing next to youstaring at an angry crowd from beyond a helmet mask and througha shield. If that day comes, working together will restore peace.

The KFOR Chonicle decided to step aside from the usual format and interviewed OSCEspokesperson Elli Flen. Elli Flen is the spokesperson of the OSCE-mission in Kosovo.She also is 1st (first) Lieutenant of Reserve in the Finnish Army. From September 2004until November 2005 she was the KFOR Press Information Officer of the Finnishcontingent. In 2007 she was also on a peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle:onicle: Mrs Flen, as the spokesperson of the OSCE-Mission hereMrs Flen, as the spokesperson of the OSCE-Mission herein Kosovo you are naturally always in the midst of media interest. in Kosovo you are naturally always in the midst of media interest. ThisThisdemanding but for sure very interesting professional challenge is neverthelessdemanding but for sure very interesting professional challenge is neverthelessjust one step in your exceptionally curriculum vitae. just one step in your exceptionally curriculum vitae. As a member of theAs a member of theKFOR-family I am first of all interested in the fact that you are also 1st (first)KFOR-family I am first of all interested in the fact that you are also 1st (first)Lieutenant of Reserve of the Finnish Lieutenant of Reserve of the Finnish ArmyArmy. I would like to ask you to describe. I would like to ask you to describea little to our readers your path to the Finnish a little to our readers your path to the Finnish Army?Army?

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: In Finland we have a conscript army. All men have to attend the militaryservice, women can volunteer. My interest for the Army service aroused at the age ofsixteen already. I had the opportunity to meet a lady who was going to Golan Heights asa peacekeeper. In 1991, this lady was amongst the very first female Finnishpeacekeepers there. I immediately decided that I wanted to follow her example.

Eleven years later after having a university degree in political science, meanwhile I had already been working for many years as a journalistfor a broadcasting company; I decided to join the army. To me there were three good reasons to do so: First of all I wanted to be apeacekeeper. Secondly I love my country, I am a real patriot. And the third reason is that as a woman I always ask for equal treatment, equalsalaries and equal opportunities. To have the same rights as men means at the same time to have also equal responsibilities and duties. Inmy opinion not merely men shall be mandatory conscripted into the army, but also women.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: Could you explain a little the sequence of education within the Finnish Reserve Could you explain a little the sequence of education within the Finnish Reserve Army?Army?

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: For reserve sergeants and officers the basic military education takes twelve months and six for privates. But not only the soldiersthemselves influence and make decisions concerning their military career. Everyone starts as a recruit and then they are chosen for thesergeant's school. Later on only a small group within the sergeant's school will be proposed for the officer's career. Hence according toprofessional education and superiors' evaluation the military path is mainly prescribed. Finally you leave the Reserve Officers School asa 2nd (second) Lieutenant, but that is the case only within the Reserve Officers School not within the active army.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: If to speak aboutIf to speak aboutthe period of your service in the the period of your service in the ArmyArmyand of your "most active" militaryand of your "most active" militaryservice in Kosovo Force, can you sayservice in Kosovo Force, can you saynow that it was a really goodnow that it was a really goodexperience, which has become veryexperience, which has become veryuseful for your future careeruseful for your future career,,especially for your current job as anespecially for your current job as anOSCE spokesperson? Or do youOSCE spokesperson? Or do youconsider it only as a short part of yourconsider it only as a short part of yourlife, which you passed wearing alife, which you passed wearing auniform?uniform?

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: I have served within theKFOR-family from September 2004 untilNovember 2005 as a Press InformationOfficer of the Finnish contingent. I wouldnot have stayed for fourteen (14) months ifI would not have liked it. I have been inpeacekeeping missions twice and this wasmy first one. What I appreciated very muchwas the friend and comradeship amongstthe soldiers. Of course you can not befriends with everyone. There are alwayspeople who do not like you or who you donot like, but the experience teaches youalso to live with these people. I learned lots about Kosovo at that time andthat is definitely still a very essential assetfor my position as an OSCE spokesperson. What I do now is mainly an office job butduring my KFOR time I had throughmyriads of patrols, I also had the facility todrive to remote areas where the povertywith its entire distress and sorrow means aneveryday struggle for survival. So I learnedlots about the people and the landscape ofKosovo at that time, since it is a fact thatthe life in Pristine is not the real Kosovo,

just a part of it. I am really verygrateful for that experience.

I also had learned lots about theinternational organizations operating inKosovo, about its history and aboutKFOR's mandate that is for sure veryuseful for our cooperation.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: So if I am notSo if I am notmistaken your career within KFORmistaken your career within KFORfacilitates your job at the OSCE andfacilitates your job at the OSCE andassures you the respect of yourassures you the respect of yourmilitary counterparts during all kindsmilitary counterparts during all kindsof negotiations. of negotiations.

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: Of course, since I am familiarwith this kind of military environment.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: YYou are now "theou are now "thevoice" of the Head of the OSCEvoice" of the Head of the OSCEmission, but not only "the voice", atmission, but not only "the voice", atthe same time you are the media-the same time you are the media-advisor for advisor for Ambassador MrAmbassador Mr. . WWernerernerAlmhoferAlmhofer. Do you have some special. Do you have some specialeducation, which permits you to feeleducation, which permits you to feelfree meeting some "underwaterfree meeting some "underwaterstones" (challenges) connected withstones" (challenges) connected withyour job? your job?

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: One of the basic requirementswas to have at least a master's degree andseveral years of relevant workingexperience, in my case that is a journalisticbackground. My university degree inpolitics helped me from the very beginningto better understand the very complexpolitical situation here in Kosovo. I wouldsay that it was also very useful to have mymilitary mission experience. After I returned from KFOR toFinland I was also working asa public informationofficer, a

Background information on theBackground information on theOrganization for Security andOrganization for Security andCooperation in Europe (OSCE)Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)Mission in KosovoMission in Kosovo

-Almost 800 staff members-Almost 800 staff membersworking thrworking throughout Kosovooughout Kosovo-Five r-Five regional centers (sameegional centers (samedivision as KFOR's Tdivision as KFOR's Task Forask Forces)ces)-Main task is institution building --Main task is institution building -to imprto improve the work of Kosovoove the work of Kosovoauthorities (for example theauthorities (for example theAssemblyAssembly, ministries, municipal, ministries, municipalassemblies and mayors) assemblies and mayors) -T-Trrying to ensurying to ensure that authoritiese that authoritiesrrespect human rights principlesespect human rights principlesand follow practices of goodand follow practices of goodgovernancegovernance-One OSCE team working with-One OSCE team working withmunicipal authorities in eachmunicipal authorities in eachmunicipality in Kosovomunicipality in Kosovo-Or-Organized or helped to organized or helped to organizeganizeall elections in Kosovo since 1999all elections in Kosovo since 1999-Monitors the work of cour-Monitors the work of courtsts-Established the Kosovo Police-Established the Kosovo PoliceSchool, the OmbudspersonSchool, the OmbudspersonInstitution, the Central ElectionInstitution, the Central ElectionCommission and other imporCommission and other importanttantinstitutionsinstitutions-Mandate based on UN Security-Mandate based on UN SecurityCouncil Resolution 1244. SCouncil Resolution 1244. Status-tatus-neutral neutral -OSCE r-OSCE reporeports and informationts and informationabout all municipalities in Kosovoabout all municipalities in Kosovoavailable at wwwavailable at www.osce.or.osce.org/kosovog/kosovo

civilian post, at the Headquarters of theFinnish Defense Forces that experiencealso helped.I had been on another peacekeepingmission in Afghanistan in 2007 for sixmonths. That was my second mission then.Compared with Kosovo you can state thatKosovo is still Europe. The amount ofhuman misery, violence and suffering inAfghanistan is sometimes beyondimagination.Fortunately in Kosovo we are in a stadiumwhere the situation has already started tonormalize quite different to what is stillhappening in Afghanistan. There they needso much more help. That does not meanthat there is no need here, but the situationis so much different.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: What exactly is theWhat exactly is theOSCE's position in Kosovo? OSCE's position in Kosovo? As far asAs far asI am informed in political terms theI am informed in political terms theOSCE is a neutral orOSCE is a neutral organization.ganization.

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: It's not our intention to get intoindependence discussion. That's becauseOSCE has fifty-six (56) member states,some of them having pretty differentapproaches to that question. Neutrality is acentral part of the OSCE Mission inKosovo. But what we do support is nomatter whether Kosovo is an independentstate or not, people deserve to be treatedprofessional by authorities. They deserve to

have free and fair elections. They deserve that theelected representatives are not corrupt, follow thelaws and do the job as they are supposed to do.If you are taken into custody by the police thatyou are not walloped, if you apply for a visa or abirth certification that you do not have to paymore than established in law, not just getting abuilding permission only because you have arelative in the right position, education in yourown language e.g..

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: How would you estimateHow would you estimatethe actual level of cooperation betweenthe actual level of cooperation betweenKFOR and OSCE? KFOR and OSCE? As we knowAs we know, there are, there areseveral common projects, concerning theseveral common projects, concerning theeducational aspects, humanitarian aid and soeducational aspects, humanitarian aid and soon…on…

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: Throughout our organization we havea very good relationship! We have five regionalcenters. Their borders follow basically those ofyour task forces. Especially on the regional and the KFOR task force level there is a lot ofcooperation. KFOR and the OSCE are participating on security meetings whereinformation is exchanged. Your LMT teams are cooperating with our municipality teams.Our guys sit in the local assemblies, cooperate with the majors and support them in thedecision making process. You have your Vehicle Check Points (VCP) so our anti-traffickinginstructors had trained especially the KFOR-soldiers in charge in that important issue.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: TTo the end of the interviewo the end of the interview, traditionally, traditionally, what would you like, what would you liketo wish to the actual KFOR soldiers and to those ones who have already leftto wish to the actual KFOR soldiers and to those ones who have already leftKosovo?Kosovo?

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: Oh my god, I really do not want to sound like a wise person, but yes there isone thing I would at least suggest. If you have the possibility to leave your camp, do it; notjust to visit some post exchange shops somewhere out there, but learn about the country, itspeople and its history; listen to the different stories, meet also peacekeepers outside thebase, especially if you have a support role. But I also know that there are also national rulesexisting and as a soldier you are not always allowed to leave.Anyway, if you have the chance you for sure will understand that the situation ischallenging and almost all aspects of life are neither black nor white.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: So they are grey?So they are grey?

Elli Flen: Elli Flen: Yes, in my opinion the scariest people are those who say this is right and this iswrong.

KFORKFOR ChrChronicle: onicle: Thank you very much for the interviewThank you very much for the interview..

NAME:NAME: Grigore NicolaeRANK:RANK: OF1NANATIONALITYTIONALITY:: RomanianHOME UNITHOME UNIT:: Land Forces - 60th Paratrooper BattalionUNITUNIT IN KFOR:IN KFOR: MNTFW TF AQUILA ROMANIAN DETACHMENT ROFNDXVIIIABOUTABOUT THE MISSION:THE MISSION: This is my first time in KOSOVO and it is my second deploymentunder NATO command. For six months, in 2007, I was deployed in AFGHANISTAN, ZABOLwhere I conducted several types of patrols as a platoon commander. I was wounded in action inan IED situation, I lost a comrade in combat, but with the support of my platoon we managed todo our job right. They followed me, after my recovery, in a continuous fight against the Talibanmovement. For me, this mission in KOSOVO will be the chance to complete the combatexperiences that I had during AFGHANISTAN deployment with a peace keeping approach in acomplex multiethnic environment. I am sure that this KFOR mission will be as challenging asthe other tour that I had overseas and this will be my opportunity to demonstrate that ifsomething bad happens in your mission you should never give up.FFAMILAMILYY REACTION:REACTION: I am married and I have a gorgeous baby girl. It was very hard for mywife to accept that I will be deployed again because she almost lost me and that state of mindwas unbearable. But I am lucky because she is a tough women and she fully supports me andunderstand how important this KFOR mission is to me.PLANS PLANS AFTER AFTER THE MISSION:THE MISSION: I really need to spend time with my family and I will dothat because, right now, they are my life. Then I will return to my unit to train and to do mymilitary job.

NAME:NAME: Driss BouraisRANK:RANK: OF2NANATIONALITYTIONALITY:: MoroccanHOME UNITHOME UNIT:: 10th Roayal Artillery GroupUNITUNIT IN KFOR:IN KFOR: HQ MNTF-N / G3 TOC / SUMMARY CELL CHIEFABOUTABOUT THE MISSION:THE MISSION: This is my first mission abroad. I have been in Kosovo since midAugust and have thoroughly enjoyed working in a multi-national environment. For me it is achallenging and instructive experience. It allows me first to meet new friends and know differentcultures. Second, improve my military knowledge and operational command. FFAMILAMILYY REACTION:REACTION: My family is very supportive. They know that this experience countsa lot for me and my career. They keep smiling despite my long absence. I am thankful for them.They are so great.PLANS PLANS AFTER AFTER THE MISSION:THE MISSION: After my return, I will travel with my family. We willenjoy our holidays and visit so many beautiful places in Morocco before returning to my verynoble and honourable duty.

NAME:NAME: Igor MulyarchukRANK:RANK: Commander (OF4)NANATIONALITYTIONALITY:: UkraineHOME UNITHOME UNIT:: Navigation, Hydrographic & Hydrometeorogic Center of Ukrainian NavyUNITUNIT IN KFOR:IN KFOR: KFOR HQ JEC INFO OPS PLANSABOUTABOUT THE MISSION:THE MISSION: This is my 26th year in the Armed Forces but only my 1st missionabroad. Ukraine is very active in peacekeeping participation. But usually Army units andpersonnel used to be sent to peacekeeping missions. I am happy the Ministry of Defense ofUkraine decided to send a Ukrainian Naval Infantry unit to Kosovo and now I have thepossibility to become a peacekeeper.During this mission, I will stay on duty as JEC INFO OPS PLANS officer in KFOR HQ. Earlier,I have had my experience to work in joint exercises. This mission for me - it is a new challenge,new possibility and a lot of new good friends from other countries.FFAMILAMILYY REACTION:REACTION: My family has been supporting my decision. My wife has served asUkrainian Naval Infantry NCO, so she understands very well it is necessary to take part in thispeacekeeping mission to represent the Ukrainian Naval Infantry and my country. I am an officerand it's my job. Nevertheless, my family is looking forward to my return.PLANS PLANS AFTER MISSION:AFTER MISSION: I am planning to have a little vacation. After my vacation I amto get back to my work in the Ukrainian Navy