www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005

KFOR CHRONICLE

2

By MAJ Jo Schöpf, PhD, AUT APhotos by Armend Aqifi

On October 5, KFOR Exercise"Balkan Hawk" was conducted atCamp Vrelo.This exercise was to demonstrateKFOR readiness in dealing withpotential conflict in Kosovo and totest the interoperability, sustainabilityand capabilities of its units. One ofthe exercise scenarios was in active-ly displayed the KFOR ability ofcrowd riot control. Impressively astroops to rapidly deploy and settleconflicts in order to maintain a safeand secure environment for Kosovoin accordance with UNSCR 1244.The exercise was in close coopera-tion between Kosovo Police Service(KPS), Multinational Specialized Unit(MSU), UNMIK-Police, KFORTactical Maneuver Battalion (KTM)and the German and ItalianOperational Reserve Force (ORF)Battalion.Approximately 400 peacekeeperstook part in the operation designedto respond to riots or other violencethat threatens to flare up in theprovince, run by the UN and NATOsince Kosovo's 1998-1999 war. Theexercise was in several steps. Thescenario was based on a simulateddemonstration against anInternational organization. TheDanish and American soldiers whowere acting as demonstrators wereinstructed to be violent and that theviolence should escalate more andmore. The demonstrators playedtheir role very convincingly. Soonenough the headquarter was threat-ened. At this stage support wasrequested. Helicopters transportedreinforcements from the Portuguesearmy as the KPS and KFOR soldiersattempted to keep a riot in check.It is not easy to control actions withdifferent units when a volatile situa-tion exacerbates. During this exer-cise KFOR showed its capacity ofcommand, control and interoperabili-ty with UNMIK-P and KPS. The oper-ation was a clear example of NATO'scapacity to rapidly reinforce KFORwith highly competent, mobile, com-bat forces and effectiveness of

KFOR multinational units."This is a warning for those whooppose to peace and stability inKosovo that NATO is ready, willingand able to fulfill its mandate," saidLTG Giuseppe Valotto, COMKFOR.

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 3

KFOR CHRONICLE

www.nato.int/kfor

German ORF battalion took part inscheduled operational rehearsallevel 2 in Kosovo. The purpose of thisrehearsal was to ensure NATOtroops and the Reserve ForcesHeadquarters remain prepared torespond to any crisis in the Balkans.The rehearsal was planned sincesummer 2004, and constituted thelast phase of a series of operationalrehearsals nicknamed DETER-MINED EFFORT 2005, which startedin March.The rehearsal sends a clear mes-sage of NATO's and the internationalcommunity's strong resolve and com-mitment to maintain peace and stabil-ity in the Balkans region. It alsodemonstrates NATO's ability to rein-force in-theatre NATO-led forces in avery short period of time with Overthe Horizon Forces (OTHF). Thesereserves are designed to be amobile, versatile force to augment in-theatre forces in order to deal withany military contingency.The deployment of German ORFBattalion in Kosovo was fromSeptember 15 to 19. During thisphase the battalion was tasked toachieve full operational capabilitywithin four days. Due to a very highreadiness status the well-trained bat-talion was able to report missionready in theatre before the deadline.The ORF battalion was integratedinto the command and control struc-tures of KFOR. While performing theduties, the German soldiers faced avariety of demanding missions, work-

ing in close cooperation with thein-theatre troops from four differ-

ent AORs. The most challengingissue for the 200 soldiers was to

become familiar with the assignedAOR in lack-time operational condi-tions. Nevertheless, the highly moti-vated and professional soldiersassumed authority of their respectiveAOR within less then one day.The sequence of KFOR - GermanORF battalion cooperation was:20-23 SEP, German ORF battalion ina close cooperation with MNB (NE)units conducted operation Harmonywith the following results:

Oct. 31, 20054

- "Mission ready in theater" within 4 days after alert;- Full independent mobility, including organic load-ing capacity and logistical independence for 5 days;- Logistical re-supply by NSE with support ofKFOR/EUFOR/JFC;- Ability to conduct every mission from PK to WFoperations.

Text and photos 1st LT Maksym Nedria, Ukrainian Army

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 5

- 23 VCP and 48 patrols wereconducted- NAI activation Banskja andRecce of other NAI´s was successfuland generated good situationalawareness- Reception and support inMNB (NE) was very satisfactory- Radio connection was a sen-sitive issue23-25 SEP, German ORF battalionwas redeployment to the MNB (SW)AOR during the operation BlackNight.0900 25 SEP, German ORF battalionassigned AOR TF Prizren. At thesame time operation's framework inthe entire AOR was maintained. Fortypersons and twenty-three vehicleswere checked. Result is - NTR.03-08 OCT, CRC Exercise MNB C.17-19 OCT, XBO MNB E.21-25 OCT, Redeployment back toGermany.

www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005

KFOR CHRONICLE

By MAJ Jo Schöpf, PhD, AUT APhotos by 1st LT Maksym Nedria,

Ukrainian Army

Joint Implementation Commission(JIC) works as a link between KFOR,and Serbia and Montenegro. It veri-fies that all obligations in the MilitaryTechnical Agreement (MTA) are ful-filled. This agreement was signed on9 June 1999 between theInternational Security Force, KFOR,

and the Governments of the FederalRepublic of Yugoslavia, and theFederal Republic of Serbia. Alongwith UNSCR 1244 it is the primarytool for KFOR, its commanders andforces, which provides the legalauthority for KFOR's presence, itsmission and operations.On September 22 KFOR Chroniclestaff had the chance to participate inthe 246th JIC meeting at Rudare.Among the delegation participants

were the chief, COL MÅNSSON(SWE A), the deputy LTCTERÄSVALLI (FIN A), LTCRODRIGUEZ GIL (SP A), LTC FER-RARA (IT A) and LTC DOWNES (USA), who is the member of the KFORInspectorate for Kosovo ProtectionCorps (KIKPC) team.At 09:30 hrs we crossed theAdministrative Boundary Line (ABL)at Gate 3. The Police of Serbia andMontenegro (MUP) was waiting

Joint ImplementJoint Implementation Commission ation Commission

6

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 7

there to accompany us to the meet-ing point. We received a warm wel-come by COL NEŠIC, the Chief ofMilitary Technical AgreementImplementation Commission and histeam. After welcoming words and positiveopening remarks the meeting began.First, information was exchangedconcerning the violations of the ABLand the incidents in the GroundSafety Zone (GSZ) and Air Safety

Zone (ASZ). There are special rulesand regulations concerning thesezones, such as KFOR is not allowedto cross the ABL. There is an excep-tion for KFOR patrols in three speci-fied places while patrolling, only.The second agenda point was thereturn of Serbia and MontenegroForces and state bodies to Kosovo,status of Forces Agreement (SOFA)and the return of the civil flight con-trol above Kosovo to the Serbia and

Montenegro civil bodies.Third point was the status of the nextHigh Level Meeting (HLM) withCOMKFOR that took place onOctober 7.Fourth, KPC training activities werediscussed.The meeting was held successfullyin a spirit of mutual respect and goodunderstanding and finalized with adelicious Serbian meal.

Meeting in Serbia and MontenegroMeeting in Serbia and Montenegro

MNB NorMNB Northeast Chtheast Ch

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

8 Oct. 31, 2005

By LT David Rocher, FrenchArmy,

Photos by Italian CCT

Change of command ceremony tookplace in Camp Belvedere, Mitrovica

on October 3. General Tracqui hand-ed over the command to GeneralAlziari de Malaussene in front of thetroops and numerous local and inter-national guests. General deMalaussene belongs to the 27th

French Mountain Infantry Brigade.Incoming Mountain Brigade has aformer experience in KFOR. InFrance, the brigade deployed in theFrench Alps, Varces-based nearGrenoble, Isère. LTG Giuseppe Valotto, COMKFORpresided over the ceremony. "I knowyou are tough soldiers and so youare ready for any challenge," saidLTG Valotto.During the ceremony, GeneralTracqui said that cooperation withUNMIK, UNMIK P, KPS, KPC andnon-governmental organisationswas perfect. He expressed his grati-tude to his soldiers for their work."During four months mission inKosovo, substantial efforts weremade to assist functioning of theKosovo institutions by contributing tothe freedom of movement andreturning process of displaced per-sons," said General Tracqui.LTG Valotto praised General Tracquifor his work. "You have implementedmy policy of supporting UNMIK andthe provisional institutions of selfgovernment, as well as important

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 9

civilian agencies, and by theseactions you have fully supported mymandate as COMKFOR, making itclear that we can accomplish somuch more by working together,"said LTG Valotto.During his speech, General deMalaussene said that he will contin-ue to work for the benefit of Kosovopeople and will help this areabecomes a part of the process ofresolving the final status. Also, hementioned his confidence in thetroops of the Brigade and assuredhis total cooperation with COMK-FOR.A cocktail to thank General Tracquifor his contribution as the head of theBrigade concluded the ceremony.After four months as commander ofMNB (NE), General Tracqui has meta lot of people as municipalities'leaders and inhabitants. He also metpoliticians and religious representa-tives. Everybody appreciated theactions of the brigade and congratu-lated the General Tracqui.

ange of Commandange of Command

KFOR CHRONICLE

10 Oct. 31, 2005 www.nato.int/kfor

Text and photos by Major Jo Schöpf, PhD, AUT A

Transfer of authority in the multina-tional TF Dulje took place during aceremony held in Camp Casablanca,MNB (SW) on October 09.

Deputy Commander of KosovoForces MG Xavier Bout de Marnhac(FR Army), Deputy CommanderMNB (SW) COL Antonio Alecci (ITArmy), Commander of the AustrianInternational Operations CommandMG Günter Höfler, Mag. Alexander

Bayerl, Head of the Austrian Office inPristina, Mr. Christian Siegl, Consulof the Austrian Office in Pristina andlocal military and civilian authoritiesgathered at Suva Reka. They wel-comed the new task force command-er, LTC Reinhard Kunert, and

TTask Forask Force Dulje Change ofce Dulje Change of

KFOR CHRONICLE

www.nato.int/kfor Oct. 31, 2005 11

thanked LTC Ferdinand Klinser, forthe work accomplished in the previ-ous six months.At the parade, the former command-er of TF Dulje thanked municipalityauthorities for their cooperation inthe previous six months. He thankedto the soldiers and congratulatedthem for the excellent job they did.Finally, he wished good luck andmission success to the new taskforce that will stay in Kosovo untilApril 2006.The national contingent commander,COL (GS) Marcus Koller hands overcommand in mid-November, whenthe MNB (SW) headquarters changeof command takes place.TF Dulje is a multinational task forcelead by Austrian, German and Swissofficers. Three Austrian companies,one German (German-Dulje-Company - "GEDUC") and oneSwiss company ("SWISSCOY") formthe task force. This is very positive

because together they form a goodmixture of military and cultural back-ground.Austrian soldiers are on duty in TFDulje in Suva Reka, in MNB (SW)Headquarters in Prizren and inKFOR Headquarters in Pristina.Austrian forces are also stationed atToplicane Air Base (located betweenPrizren and Suva Reka).This new Austrian Contingent is the13th Contingent (AUCON13/KFOR).Austria is a KFOR contributingnation since September 22, 1999.

CommandCommand

Text and photos Spc. Alicia Dill

Another part of the days workis training infantry troops onsling load operations. Thisexercise included how to prop-erly prepare a load for flightand execute the hook up ontothe helicopter. "We are mainlyteaching them about our oper-ations and educating them onhow we work and teachingthem why it is important for usto know their plan so we canbetter support them in allaspects of it," said 1st Lt.Christopher Loftus, pilot, BCompany, 1-104th (Lift), TaskForce Shadow.This is the first time Task ForceShadow has trained anotherU.S. task force on sling loadingduring this deployment. Duringthe preparation stage, Shadowsoldiers explained the differenttasks involved in sling opera-tions that led to an understand-ing of the "big picture".A sling loading missioninvolves a ground crew, crewchiefs and pilots; all workingtogether to move personneland their equipment. In thiscase, the ground crew wastroops from Task ForceSidewinder and the flight crewwas soldiers from Task Force

Shadow. Part of the trainingwas showing the troops how tosecure everything so theHMMWV remains intact afterthe drop off. Using "100 mph"tape, everything from the win-dows to the antenna wassecured to ensure an intactHMMWV on arrival.Another critical task in theoperation is simply hooking upthe sling to the hovering air-craft. The Soldier on theground has to remain steadyas the helicopter moves intoposition over the sling. As theground guide holds his stance,the flight crew takes over. Asthe Blackhawks carry their loadto the drop off point, the groundcrew secures the area andwaits for the flight crew tocome in and release theHMMWVs from the sling. "Ithink with the guidance of TaskForce Shadow the soldiers andI were fully prepared to com-plete this training along withteam work," said Staff Sgt.Spencer Davenport, squadleader, C Company, 1-160thInfantry, Task ForceSidewinder. When the helicopters arrivedfor the pick up, the crew chiefsdid a quick inspection of theHMMWVs. "They did a reallygood job preparing the load,

the one I inspected was per-fect," said Sgt. Max Geise,crew chief, B Company, 1-104th (Lift). After inspection,the mission continued on witha successful hook-up and dropoff. With soldiers and twoHMMWVs moved from oneplace to another in a matter ofminutes, the instruction provedto be efficient. Davenport, a Seal Beach,Calif. native expressed thebenefits of conducting this typeof exercise during this deploy-ment. "Kosovo is a good placeto do sling load trainingbecause of the large amountsof open areas and the largeamount of hard to reach terrainwhere sling loading vehicles orsupplies would be very helpfulin order to complete exercises,missions and training."For everyone involved, it wasan important step in workingwith other soldiers from a dif-ferent task force. With all theresources available to bothtask forces, the sling load train-ing was a new experience forsome soldiers and a helpfulreminder for others. One partof the success of the instruc-tion is the learning process andpreparing for the future of slingload training.

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

12 Oct. 31, 2005

It's a bird, it's a plane, wait, what is that? For some local residents,a Humvee suspended from a Blackhawk helicopter can be a remark-

able sight, but for Soldiers from B Company, 1-104th (Lift), TaskForce Shadow, it's just part of the job.

KFOR CHRONICLE

www.nato.int/kfor Oct. 31, 2005 13

14 Oct. 31, 2005 www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

By 1st LT Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian Army

Photos by Armend Aqifi

The Georgian Contingent has beendeployed in Kosovo since May 2003.

An agreement between the GermanDepartment of Defence andGeorgian Department of Defence toassist in the security and internation-al presence in Kosovo was signedon February 4, 2003. Therefore, theGeorgian Infantry Company wasincluded into the Deutsch NationalElement, MNB (SW)."The main task of the contingent is toprovide security for MNB (SW) HQ,Prizren, Camp Airfield, CampToplicane and Camp Cviljen. Thenumber of personnel is one hundredand fifty. The soldiers perform round-clock duties at the gates, guardiantowers, and patrol of the camps,"said MAJ Besik Berdelidze,Contingent Commander.The soldiers involved with the mis-sion, belong to Georgian FreedomsBattalion, the special trained unitdesigned for use in PSO. "The com-pany has been trained in Georgiaduring 3 months and, then, onemonth in Wildfleken, Germany.Every soldier has an experience with

KFOR and is dedicated to the mis-sion," stated MAJ Berdelidze.The soldiers have day shift - day offsequence during the six-months mis-sion. "This schedule demandswillpower and a good physical shapefrom my soldiers, as more than 600people and 200 vehicles pass ourguard station per day," said Sgt.Valerian Rostobaia, commander ofthe guard, Camp Prizren. "The mostimportant thing is to pay attention toevery event around you during ashift."One platoon from the contingent islocated in Mamusha, Turkish battal-ion AOR, MNB (SW). The platoonperforms guarding, patrolling andother missions in the cooperationwith Turkish Contingent.According to 1st LT ZurabChilingarashvili, Deputy CompanyCommander, the skills and experi-ence that the contingent gains fromthe KFOR mission will be substantialcontribution into the professionalabilities of Georgian Armed Forces.

KK FF OO RR CC oo nn tt ii nn gg ee nn tt :: GGKK FF OO RR CC oo nn tt ii nn gg ee nn tt :: GG

The Georgian ContingentCommander MAJ Besik

Berdelidze

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 15

EE OO RR GG II AAEE OO RR GG II AA

Text and photos provided by"Maz and More"

Translated by Lt Sara De Miguel,SP Army and Sgt. Günther

Hoppenstedt, GE Army

The 12th German KFOR OperationContingent celebrated, with asolemn parade the German Unity onOctober 3, in Prizren.The special events of that day beganat 9:00 hours with a religious service,followed by a special brunch. Bynoon, the official ceremony started.Soldiers of all the branches of theBrigade presented themselves infront of the HQ building framed bysoldiers holding torches.The German Air Force music bandfrom Karlsruhe performed the back-ground music. The moment the Flagof the Unit was brought in, the differ-ence between a recorded and livemusic was obvious. The Commanders of theMultinational Brigades Northeast,East and Center, high representa-tives of HQ KFOR, Deputy Chief ofStaff of HQ KFOR were presents, aswell as representatives of the 11

nations of the MNB (SW).BG Norbert Stier specially welcomedthe Deputy Commander of theOperational Command of theGerman Army, General MajorKarlheinz Viereck, which came fromPotsdam, especially to celebrate thisevent with the German soldiers. BGStier highlighted in his speech thepolitical background of theOctober 3, 1990, the Day of theReunification. He honored the

courage of the former governmentand the support of the allies, special-ly the United States. As well, BGStier stressed the civil courage andnon-violent resistance of the citizensof the GDR as the decisive factor forthe political development of thereunification: By that they made theweapons of the regime dull andunusable, at the end they stood up tothem with the demand for more free-dom and finally the demand for the

www.nato.int/kfor16 Oct. 31, 2005

KFOR CHRONICLE

Reunification DayReunification DayThe 12th German KFOR Contingent celebrated the Reunification DayThe 12th German KFOR Contingent celebrated the Reunification Day

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 17

reunification with the brothers andsisters of the Federal Republic ofGermany. He honored and exempli-fied the German reunification as amodel for other countries andregions. "Non-violent form of protestand civilian resistance make theweapons of a superior and repres-sive state dull and worthless," saidBG Stier. The aim's achievement ofthe reunification, in peace liberty andwithout any bloodshed, allows todaycelebrating of the day of the Germanreunification.The first three words of the nationalhymn: "Unity and right and liberty"describe the value, not only theGermans should go for, but all theother people as well.

Text by MAJ Alfonso Boo and LTSara De Miguel, SP ArmyPhotos by Armend Aqifi

DecreeDecree

TTo all those who may read ando all those who may read andunderstunderstand thisand this

Under the rUnder the reign of Isabel of Castileeign of Isabel of Castileand Ferand Ferdinad of dinad of Aragon, MonarAragon, Monarchschs

of Spain - named The Catholicof Spain - named The CatholicMajesties by the grace of popeMajesties by the grace of popeAlexander VI - the grAlexander VI - the greatest feast ofeatest feast ofthe known world was orthe known world was orderdered anded andunderunder taken: the discovertaken: the discovery ofy ofAmerica.America.On October 12, 1492, after 72 daysOn October 12, 1492, after 72 daysof sailing, under the leadership ofof sailing, under the leadership ofAdmiral Colon, sailor Rodrigo deAdmiral Colon, sailor Rodrigo deTTriana spotted land. This eventriana spotted land. This eventchanged mankind's perchanged mankind's perception of theception of the

earearth leading to something not eventh leading to something not evenColon could have imagined: theColon could have imagined: themermerging of two worlds.ging of two worlds.Since then therSince then there has been a commone has been a commonbond, which unites 400 million peobond, which unites 400 million peo--ple: a rich and beautiful language,ple: a rich and beautiful language,the SPthe SPANISH, spoken in 23 counANISH, spoken in 23 coun--tries of five continents. Ttries of five continents. To commemo commem--orate that date, in Spain by HMorate that date, in Spain by HMMaria of Maria of AugsburAugsburg and HM the Kingg and HM the KingAlfonso XIII, and in Alfonso XIII, and in ArArgentina bygentina byPrPresident Irigoyen, His Majesty theesident Irigoyen, His Majesty theKing D. Juan Carlos I of Spain, GodKing D. Juan Carlos I of Spain, Godprpresereserve him, has decrve him, has decreed that theeed that theOctobe12, feast of the VOctobe12, feast of the Virirgin ofgin ofPilarPilar, shall be the National Holiday, shall be the National Holiday..AccorAccordinglydingly, he or, he orderdered to alled to allSpaniarSpaniards, private people andds, private people andauthorities, to honor and make lawauthorities, to honor and make lawhis decrhis decree.ee.It shall be done.It shall be done.

The Spanish National Day was cele-brated in the Camp Base España,Istok, on October 12.By noon, in presence of military andcivilian authorities, the official cere-mony started. Under the Command

18 Oct. 31, 2005 www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

of Lieutenant Colonel Arribas thetroops were in formation, includingthe Honor Squad, two InfantryCompanies, one Logistics Company,one mixed motorized Company, aUnit from the Civil Guard and oneArgentinean Platoon, under theCommand of Captain Lipuma.General Jose Prieto presided overthe Ceremony, accompanied byColonel Casimiro Sanjuan. GeneralPrieto gave a speech, thanking all inattendance for sharing with theSpanish troops such an importantday.After congratulating all theSpaniards, especially the CivilGuard, for their patron (Virgin ofPilar), he pronounced some wordson the memory of the 17 comradesdied in Afghanistan, begging for theprotection of the Virgin of Pilar. Afterthat, there was a Military Parade tohonor all military people who died fortheir country.This brilliant day was ended with aSpanish toast. All the guests wereinvited to taste the traditional paella.It was a great opportunity to rein-force and create bonds betweencomrades and friends, not onlybetween the military personnel of thedifferent countries but also betweenthe Kosovarian representatives,which came from the Spanish AOR.

www.nato.int/kfor Oct. 31, 2005 19

T h e S p a n i s h N a t i o n a l D a yT h e S p a n i s h N a t i o n a l D a y

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 200520

Text and photos 1st LT Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian Army

Sixteen bridges within Kosovo does not havebridge classification. Bridge classification is ameasure of the maximum weight that a bridge canwithstand, based on the tonnage of the heaviestvehicle, which is allowed to cross it. Therefore, aspecial team equipped with a new technology andmodern equipment arrived in the theater fromUniversity of the German Armed Forces andEngineer School, Munich, Germany on October13. They were tasked to perform the mission ofclassifying the bridges in 13 days.Classification tests the structural strength of thebridge. Normally a safety margin of almost 100percent is kept while determining the bridge's clas-sification, therefore, if a bridge is classified as class9, it can actually withstand up to 18 tons of weight.Bridge and vehicle classification allows vehicleoperators to avoid bridge failure due to overload-ing. Vehicle operators may drive across withoutrestrictions if their vehicles' class numbers are lessthan or equal to the bridge class number. All clas-sified vehicles and bridges in the theater of opera-tions require classification signs. Bridge classifica-tion signs are circular with a yellow backgroundand black inscriptions.Three professors and six assistances from theUniversity of the German Armed Forces have beeninvolved with the Bridges' Classification projectsince 2000. MAJ Dobmeier, Head of EngineeringSupport Center at Engineer School is in charge ofthe bridges' classification team, which consists offour scientists from the university and two militaryengineers. COL Helmut Alois Bach, ChiefEngineer, KFOR HQ supported activity of the teamwithin Kosovo.According to Norbert Romen, scientific assistance,University of the German Armed Forces, it takesonly 3 hours to make an assessment when classi-fying a bridge. "Due to the new technology, it's notnecessary to stop the traffic and use heavy-weighttrucks or wheeled vehicles. The entire equipmentis now contained in one minibus," said Romen ashe took measurements."First, we take geometrical, frequency and materi-al properties measurements. Then we input thedata into a special software 'Bridge AssessmentCode' to get an assessment about the bridge'sclassification," said Kerstin Bierbrauer, scientificassistance, University of the German ArmedForces."The final approval of the Military LoadClassification of bridges will be done according toSTANAG 2021 ENGR," said MAJ Dobmeier.

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 21

Text and photos MAJ Fuat Araz,Turkish Army

August 30 is a very important day forTurkish Republic. This day in history,Turkish won an absolute victorywhich ended the Independence War.Due to the significance of this day, allmilitary personnel who are promotedtake their rank on this day. For thatreason, conjunction with the two cel-ebrations conducted. TF Dragashhave conducted a celebration cere-mony of Victory Day and a promotionceremony for personnel in CampSultan Murat on August 28. Morethan 2,000 people from the militaryand local communities attended theceremony.The ceremony begun with a speechof TF Commander LTC Bulent Celik."Today is a gift from the lover of free-dom and peace, our great leaderAtatürk and his comrades, that weare celebrating the 83rd Anniversary.Also, today is a promotion to theupper rank, so it has a differentmeaning for us, soldiers. Officersand NCO's, today, are sharing theirhappiness and excitement of theirpromotion with their families. Todaywe are also happy to have a chanceto celebrate this day with people ofKosovo, international comunities andwith soldiers of other nations," saidLTC Celik.LTC Celik said that the changes inthe last 20 years throuthout the worldhas forced nations and societies to

rebuild. "Now, no nation can be sat-isfied only by the peace and safety inhis country. Every country is alsoaffected with events that happenedoutside of its borders. From thisscope, Turkish Armed Forces have

been tasked in places where crisisoccur and are contributing to worldpeace. As great leader Atatürk said'Peace at home, peace in the world,'we have a task to set up safe andsecure envirounment in this region.We are working in harmony with theother armed forces in a multinationalPSO in Kosovo and making an effortfor the development of Kosovoaccording to our capabilities," hesaid.At the promotion ceremony, 29 offi-cers and NCO's were promoted.Brigade General Norbert Stier, MNB(SW) Commander; Brigade GeneralJohn S. Harrel, MNB (E)Commander and LTC Celik executedthe promotion ceremony. After thepromotion a multivision show ofTurkish ceremonial, folklore andmusical entertainment were conduct-ed.

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

22 Oct. 31, 2005

TTTT uuuu rrrr kkkk iiii ssss hhhh VVVV iiii cccc tttt oooo rrrr yyyy DDDD aaaa yyyy

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 23

By Tech. Sgt. Claudette HutchinsonHQ KFOR PIO

Photos by 1st Lt Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian Army

It was a special day in HQ KFOR,Film City. Dining tables were dressedwith the finest linens. A single rosedelicately positioned at each placesetting, and crystal glasses to toastthe honorees. This celebration wasnot for dignitaries or Heads of State,but for HQ KFOR's Military Women.More than 30 women, from fivenations celebrated this event, Oct.21.The purpose of the dinner was formilitary women to meet, greet andshare with each other their differ-ences and most importantly theirsimilarities. The event was the brainchild of Maj.Valerie-Claire Bermond HQ KFORPublic Information Office (FrenchArmy) and other women of the PIOstaff. Deputy Chief of Staff OperationsKFOR Brig. Gen. Reinhard Wolski(German Army) opened the celebra-tion. He expressed his appreciationand thanks for the contributions ofKFOR's women to the mission ofproviding a safe and secure environ-ment for the people of Kosovo, incollaboration with their male counter-parts. This simple idea planted the seed,

which grew into a classy event,bringing 30 women from very differ-ent worlds, together. The fruits of thisidea were instrumental in improvingand building relationships, comrade-ship and friendships among womenwho once thought they were differ-

ent, but now realize they are moresimilar. The women complimented theDining Facility staff for their excellentservice and for providing a deliciousmeal and a great environment, onthis special day.

AA C e l e b r a t i o n t o R e m e m b e rC e l e b r a t i o n t o R e m e m b e r

Text and photos 1st LT MaksymNedria, Ukrainian Army

According to the experts, early child-hood is the most sensitive develop-mental period of human personality.During this developmental phase thechild's first experiences contributesentirely towards healthy develop-ment. One important part of this istheir environment. Pursuing a goal tosave every child and giving destituteand orphaned children a chance toshape their own futures, SOS-Kinderdorf International (SOS-KDI)project was launched in Kosovo inJanuary 2001.Now, SOS Children's Village inPristina runs several facilities. Thekindergarten offers pre-school edu-cation and day-care for up to 120children from the SOS Children'sVillage and neighborhood from 3 to 6years old.

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 200524

WWWWoooorrrrkkkkiiiinnnngggg TTTTooooggggeeeetttthhhheeeerrrr TTTToooowwww"Nothing in the world, it seems to me, is more important than

Hermann

There is also a center for childrenwith special needs, which hasalready taken care of more than 200babies. Many of them were adopted,many placed with foster families orother types of placement. However,there are also those for whom suchlong-term solution could not befound.The Children's Village offers a per-manent home in a family-style envi-ronment to children who have losttheir parents or can no longer livewith them. Normally, children areadmitted to the Village up to age of10. Every child receives individualsupport, education and training inkeeping with his or her needs andabilities. The current capacity of SOSChildren's Village is 14 children.All children who are a part of the pro-gram grow and develop togetherregardless of social status, religion,ethnicity or race.KFOR provides donations to theproject. On October 3, a truck withsport equipments arrived to theChildren's Village from Film City. Dueto this donation the children received10 bicycles, 20 sets of skis and ski-boots, exercise mats, balls and vari-ous other sports equipment. COLMichael Cleary, CommanderHeadquarter Support Group andWarrant Officer Thomas Reischl,Morale Welfare Activity office, FilmCity, paid the substantial contributioninto organizing of the humanitarianproject.

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 25

aaaarrrrddddssss aaaa BBBBeeeetttt tttteeeerrrr FFFFuuuuttttuuuurrrreeeeattending to a child"

Gmeiner

www.nato.int/kfor

By Tech. Sgt. Claudette Hutchinson HQ KFOR PIO

Photos by 1st LT Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian Army

It was a crisp fall morning as thebuzz of excitement and anxiety filledthe air. Spirits were running high as950 troops from 21 nations gatheredfor the grueling DANCON March,Oct. 9, at Camp Olaf Rye."It was very satisfactory to see so

many participants from such differentparts of the world making an effort forcompleting a task together. The sol-diers' oldest and most important taskto move from one place to anotherwith equipment and weapon. Asorganizer it was very satisfactory tosee so many happy faces at thebeginning of the course. However,not all of them were that happy whenthey got back to the Camp," saidCapt. K. Gertsen, Danish Sports andWelfare Office. However, today they all had very dif-ferent goals; some wanted to setrecords, some to break them; how-ever, most looked forward to theexperience and challenge of finish-ing the course."Good weather, feet ready, I wasamong 950 participants and waslooking forward to the next 25 km,and off we went. Before starting Iwas thinking how hard could this be- marching 25 km in beautiful weath-er and terrain," said Pvt. A.Q.

Oct. 31, 2005

KFOR CHRONICLE

DD AA NN CC OODD AA NN CC OO

26

KFOR CHRONICLE

Vestergaard, Danish Contingent.The 25.2 km route was a primaryand secondary road, to include somevery rough and steep terrain. All par-ticipants had to be in uniform andwere required to carry 10 kgs ofequipment, including their weapons,with a maximum completion time of 8hours.Col. M. Bech, Commanding OfficerDanish Battalion, he advised every-one to train and prepare seriouslybefore participating, in order to avoidinjuries.Later, Private Vestergaard learnedthis lesson of being properly pre-pared, the hard way. "My feet werehurting a lot going down to Post 4 butI did not dare to take off my boots off.My feet wanted to stop, but my brainwas forcing them to continue...I hadsome very bad blisters," he said.

According to Helmer Hansen,

Senior Medical Officer DanishContingent blisters are common inthese events.It wasn't long before the fist personwas making his way to the finish line,Roland Fuchs, UNMIK Police,Germany, finishing in 2:14 mins.Five minutes later Jean-NicolasMartin, HQ KFOR France followedwith a time of 2:19 mins, and SvenFrancet, BELUKOS, Belgium, with atime of 2:21 mins. Capt. Anne-SofieEriksen, DANBAT, Denmark was thefastest woman to ever complete themarathon, finishing in 2:27 mins."It was a very difficult course. The

first part of the course was normal. Ifelt good. However, going up the hillwas very difficult. But, I'll do it again,"said Stephane Arena, MSU Pristina,who finished in 3:15 mins.Nevertheless, not everyone wasready for the challenge and took a bit

longer to finish the course. Someeven stopped to enjoy the view andtake pictures, of the leaves shimmer-ing in the mid-morning sun display-ing the amazing colors of fall. In theend, the DANCON March is a test ofdetermination, will power, teamworkand the joy of victory, it shows 21nations, working together in unity,towards a one goal."It was a lot of fun. I liked the friend-ly competition with the other coun-tries. We helped each other alongthe way," said Tech. Sgt. LesterSergeant Neipert, HQ KFOR(USAF). He finished in 3:21 mins.

www.nato.int/kfor Oct. 31, 2005 27

NNNN MM aa rr cc hhMM aa rr cc hh

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 200528

By MAJ Hassan Chbani,Moroccan Army and

Mr. Armend AqifiKFOR Chronicle

RAMADAN: The ninth month ofthe lunar calendar and one of thefive pillars of Islam. Ramadan is atime when Muslims concentrate ontheir faith. Some strict restraints areplaced on the daily lives; no eating,drinking during daily hours. At theend of the day the fast is brokenwith prayer and a meal called"IFTAR", following it is customary togo visiting friends and family.However, that is merely the physicalcomponent of the fast (SAWM), thespiritual aspects are the purity ofthought and action. Fasting duringRamadan is intended to teach self-discipline, self-restraint and gen-erosity and also serves as areminder of the suffering of the poorwho rarely eat well. Things such aslying, denouncing someone behindtheir backs, slandering and otherbad intentions, can destroy the fast.While, these are always consideredoffensive they are most offensiveduring the fast of Ramadan.During the night, in addition to thefive daily prayers, there is a specialprayer called "TARAWEEH" (Nightprayer), which take place in theMosque (Masjid). The length or thisprayer is usually two times, and itcould take all night. On the 27th dayof the month, LAYLAT AL QADR(the night of Power or the night ofDestiny) is celebrated in Mosquesor at home within prayer because itis believed that on this night,Prophet Mohammed received therevelation of the Holy Quran(KURAAN) .The same for thereceiving of the TenCommandments from Mount Sinaifor Jews and Christians.

THE FEAST OF FAST BREAK-ING (EID UL FITR):

When the first crescent of the newmoon is officially sighted by a reli-able source, the month of Ramadanis declared over, and the month of

T h e F a s t iT h e F a s t i

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 29

"SHAWAL" begins. It is marked by athree-day period known as EID ULFITR (the feast of fast breaking). It isa joyous time beginning with a spe-cial prayer, and accompanied bycelebration, socializing, festivemeals and some gift giving especial-ly for children.Charity is also given during this day,calculated to feed one person in oneregion for one day. This is known as"FITRA" meant as another reminderof the suffering endured throughoutthe world. It is also an occasion topay the annual alms, which are dueto the poor and needy, it is known as"ZAKAT" usually, a payment is 2.5percent of assets.

MOROCCAN MISSION IN KOSOVO:

In accordance with his duty and hismission, Moroccan contingent continue to serve peace and freedom in his AOR. Field SurgeryHospital, social workers and Combat Coy areproud to accomplish their missionin order to contribute to maintainmoral welfare and security for thepeople of Kosovo regardless of ethnicities.

n R a m a d a nn R a m a d a n

www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005

KFOR CHRONICLE

30

Name: Turan CivciRank: Chief Master SergeantAge: 40 years oldUnit in Kosovo: J3 Admin, Film CityUnit in Turkey: Turkish Air Force

About the mission: This is my first mission in this multinational environment.I wanted to come to Kosovo to get a new experience.

Family Reaction: I am married and I have two children. They are oldenough to know about my job and my duties. Therefore, when I first told myfamily about my mission in Kosovo there were no problems at all. I am miss-ing them, but I think that is quite normal.

After Kosovo: First, I will take a vacation with my family. We will visit my rel-atives. Then I will continue my military service back at my home unit, Turkey.

Peacekeeper’s Profile

Name: Claudette HUTCHINSON Rank: Technical Sergeant, USAFUnit In Kosovo: Public Information OfficeHome Unit: US Air Force Weather Agency Public Affairs OfficeAbout mission: This is my first mission to Kosovo. I think our mission here is very vital to the peace and stability of this region. I am pleased to see how military people, from various nations, are able to come together and work towards fulfilling one common mission. This NATO peacekeeping mission is an example to the people of Kosovo, proving that people from all race, origin, color, backgrounds and beliefs can work together to achieve one common goal … peace and security for a better future. Family Reaction: I am married with three children. I think my husband was most worried because, now he has to do all the cooking and washing. Seriously, at first my family was a bit worried about my mission. However, they are used to the requirements of my job and so they understand that this comes with being a part of the U.S. Air Force. Nevertheless, I feel blessed, because they are very supportive, and capable of handling everything during my absence. In fact, I am able to focus on my mission here, knowing that everything at home is well taken care of.

Peacekeeper’s Profile

Name: Georgi BalevRank: LieutenantAge: 30Unit in Kosovo: J2XUnit in Bulgaria: Reconnaissance Platoon CommanderSpare time: I prefer to spend my free time along with my family or to visitfriends of mine.

About the mission: I am glad I had the opportunity to participate in this mission that gave me much experience and I am still gaining more and more of it. The work in a multinational unit improved my skills in the matters of the job I have been assigned for. I believe my mission here has contributed to the overall safety of the residents of Kosovo.Family reaction: My family understood my decision of coming here and they have been supporting me my entire mission. They are waiting for me to get back in Bulgaria safely.After Kosovo: I might take some vacation and then go on serving for the same unit I had served for before my mission but with more experience.

Peacekeeper’s Profile

www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE

Oct. 31, 2005 31

CommanderCommander KFOR:KFOR:LTG Giuseppe Valotto

Italian Army

Chief PublicChief PublicInformation KFOR:Information KFOR:

COL Pio SabettaItalian Army

Chief InternalChief InternalInformation KFOR & Information KFOR &

EditorEditor in Chief:in Chief:MAJ Dr. Jo SCHÖPF

Austrian Armyschoepfj@main.kfor.nato.int

Journal is tJournal is t1st LT Maksym Nedria

Ukrainian Army

PhotographerPhotographerMr. Armend Aqifi

LayoutLayoutKosova Sot

HQ KFORCanadaHungaryNorwayPortugalSloveniaUnited Kingdom

MNB (C)Leading Nation:Leading Nation:Czech RepublicContributingNations:FinlandIrelandLatviaSlovakia Sweden

MNB (NE)Leading Nation:FranceContributingNations:Belgium DenmarkEstoniaGreeceLuxembourgMorocco

MNB (E)Leading Nation:United States ofAmericaContributingNations:ArmeniaGreece LithuaniaNorwayPolandUkraine

MNB (SW)Leading Nation:GermanyContributingNations:ArgentinaAustriaAzerbaijanBulgariaGeorgiaItalyRomaniaSpainSwitzerlandTurkey

Contributing nations inKFOR:

The KFOR Chronicle is produced by HQ KFOR.

It is fully funded by KFOR,authorized and published for

KFOR forces in the area of responsibility.

The contents are not necessari-ly the official views of,

or endorsed by, the coalitiongovernments’ defence

departments.The KFOR Chronicle is

printed by KOSOVA SOTTel: 038 548 402

The KFOR Chronicle welcomes contributionsfrom its readers, such as letters, articles, photos or

story ideas.Copy should be submitted

to KFOR Chronicle, HQ KFOR, Pristina on a 3.5-

inch floppy disk, Zip disk or e-mail address below. Photos can be sent

digitally or high resolutionhard copy.

How to contact KFOR Chronicle:

Phone:Int: +389 268 2897

Kos.:(038) 503 603 2897KPN: 2897, 2402

FAX: 2373E-mail:

kforchronicle@main.kfor.nato.intInternet:

www.nato.int/kfor

Thank you for your supportTech. Sgt. ClaudetteHutchinson, US AF

KFOR CHRONICLE

Cover photo byMr. Armend Aqifi

Lieutenant Colonel Don Gianluigi Aroffo

BIOGRAPHIEBIOGRAPHIE

Born on 17.06.1949 in ARBOREA - SARDEGNA - ITALY.He begins the seminar of PP. Redentoristi on29.09.1962 in Scifelli (FR), and obtains the classicmaturity. He moves to Rome and get a degree in MoralTheology in 1978 at PONTIFICIA LATERANENSE UNI-VERSITY. In the beginning of his mission he workswith the youth as an educator and professor. Since1988 he is military chaplain and starts his mission atfirst in Air Force; Army at 235° RGT, "Piceno" in AscoliPiceno (Italy) and from 1994 till 1997 at infantry schoolof Cesano in Rome. From 1997 to 2000 in the NavyCommand - Venice at the Military Navy School"Motosiluranti". Since 2000 he returns to the Army at 151° RGT active units of SassariBrigade, dislocated in Sardegna, Italy. Together with 151° participates in different missionsof peace, such as:Albania from 2000 - 2001 (COMZ WEST), Kosovo 2002 (Tank Force Aquila), Egypt 2002(MFO), Iraq 2003 - 2004 (Antica Babilonia), Kosovo (KFOR) 2 April 2005.

T h e a t r e C h a p l a i n

PPhh

oott oo

bbyy

AArr mm

ee nndd

AAqq

ii ffii