October - ACO - NATO

KFOR CHRONICLE2By MAJ Jo Schöpf, PhD, AUT APhotos by Armend AqifiOn 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 activelydisplayed 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 cooperationbetween 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 threatened.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 situationexacerbates. During this exerciseKFOR showed its capacity ofcommand, control and interoperabilitywith UNMIK-P and KPS. The operationwas a clear example of NATO'scapacity to rapidly reinforce KFORwith highly competent, mobile, combatforces and effectiveness ofOct. 31, 2005KFOR 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 CHRONICLEwww.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 3

KFOR CHRONICLE- "Mission ready in theater" within 4 days after alert;- Full independent mobility, including organic loadingcapacity 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.4Text and photos 1st LT Maksym Nedria, Ukrainian ArmyOct. 31, 2005German 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 messageof NATO's and the internationalcommunity's strong resolve and commitmentto maintain peace and stabilityin the Balkans region. It alsodemonstrates NATO's ability to reinforcein-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 intheatreforces 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 battalionwas able to report missionready in theatre before the deadline.The ORF battalion was integratedinto the command and control structuresof KFOR. While performing theduties, the German soldiers faced avariety of demanding missions, workingin close cooperation with thein-theatre troops from four differentAORs. The most challengingissue for the 200 soldiers was tobecome familiar with the assignedAOR in lack-time operational conditions.Nevertheless, the highly motivatedand 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:www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLE- 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 sensitiveissue23-25 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 5

KFOR CHRONICLEJoint Implementation CommissionBy MAJ Jo Schöpf, PhD, AUT APhotos by 1st LT Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian ArmyJoint Implementation Commission(JIC) works as a link between KFOR,and Serbia and Montenegro. It verifiesthat all obligations in the MilitaryTechnical Agreement (MTA) are fulfilled.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 participantswere 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 waiting6Oct. 31, 2005www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLEMeeting in Serbia and Montenegrothere to accompany us to the meetingpoint. We received a warm welcomeby 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 SafetyZone (ASZ). There are special rulesand regulations concerning thesezones, such as KFOR is not allowedto cross the ABL. There is an exceptionfor KFOR patrols in three specifiedplaces 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 controlabove Kosovo to the Serbia andMontenegro 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.www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 7

KFOR CHRONICLEMNB Northeast ChBy LT David Rocher, FrenchArmy,Photos by Italian CCTChange of command ceremony tookplace in Camp Belvedere, Mitrovicaon October 3. General Tracqui handedover the command to GeneralAlziari de Malaussene in front of thetroops and numerous local and internationalguests. General deMalaussene belongs to the 27thFrench 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 gratitudeto 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 persons,"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 important8 Oct. 31, 2005www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLEange of Commandcivilian 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 continueto 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 representatives.Everybody appreciated theactions of the brigade and congratulatedthe General Tracqui.www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 9

KFOR CHRONICLETask Force Dulje Change ofText and photos byMajor Jo Schöpf, PhD, AUT ATransfer of authority in the multinationalTF 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. AlexanderBayerl, Head of the Austrian Office inPristina, Mr. Christian Siegl, Consulof the Austrian Office in Pristina andlocal military and civilian authoritiesgathered at Suva Reka. They welcomedthe new task force commander,LTC Reinhard Kunert, and10 Oct. 31, 2005 www.nato.int/kfor

thanked LTC Ferdinand Klinser, forthe work accomplished in the previoussix months.At the parade, the former commanderof 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 positiveKFOR CHRONICLECommandbecause together they form a goodmixture of military and cultural background.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.www.nato.int/kfor Oct. 31, 2005 11

KFOR CHRONICLEIt'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 remarkablesight, but for Soldiers from B Company, 1-104th (Lift), TaskForce Shadow, it's just part of the job.Text and photos Spc.Alicia DillAnother part of the days workis training infantry troops onsling load operations. Thisexercise included how to properlyprepare a load for flightand execute the hook up ontothe helicopter. "We are mainlyteaching them about our operationsand 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 operationsthat led to an understandingof 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 ForceShadow. Part of the trainingwas showing the troops how tosecure everything so theHMMWV remains intact afterthe drop off. Using "100 mph"tape, everything from the windowsto the antenna wassecured to ensure an intactHMMWV on arrival.Another critical task in theoperation is simply hooking upthe sling to the hovering aircraft.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 completethis 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 perfect,"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 deployment."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 differenttask force. With all theresources available to bothtask forces, the sling load trainingwas a new experience forsome soldiers and a helpfulreminder for others. One partof the success of the instructionis the learning process andpreparing for the future of slingload training.12 Oct. 31, 2005www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLEwww.nato.int/kfor Oct. 31, 2005 13

KFOR CHRONICLEK F O R C o n t i n g e n t : GThe Georgian ContingentCommander MAJ BesikBerdelidzeBy 1st LT Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian ArmyPhotos by Armend AqifiThe 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 internationalpresence 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 roundclockduties at the gates, guardiantowers, and patrol of the camps,"said MAJ Besik Berdelidze,Contingent Commander.The soldiers involved with the mission,belong to Georgian FreedomsBattalion, the special trained unitdesigned for use in PSO. "The companyhas been trained in Georgiaduring 3 months and, then, onemonth in Wildfleken, Germany.Every soldier has an experience withKFOR and is dedicated to the mission,"stated MAJ Berdelidze.The soldiers have day shift - day offsequence during the six-months mission."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 battalionAOR, MNB (SW). The platoonperforms guarding, patrolling andother missions in the cooperationwith Turkish Contingent.According to 1st LT ZurabChilingarashvili, Deputy CompanyCommander, the skills and experiencethat the contingent gains fromthe KFOR mission will be substantialcontribution into the professionalabilities of Georgian Armed Forces.14 Oct. 31, 2005 www.nato.int/kfor

E O R G I AKFOR CHRONICLEwww.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 15

KFOR CHRONICLEReunification DayThe 12th German KFOR Contingent celebrated the Reunification DayText and photos provided by"Maz and More"Translated by Lt Sara De Miguel,SP Army and Sgt. GüntherHoppenstedt, GE ArmyThe 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 backgroundmusic. The moment the Flagof the Unit was brought in, the differencebetween a recorded and livemusic was obvious.The Commanders of theMultinational Brigades Northeast,East and Center, high representativesof HQ KFOR, Deputy Chief ofStaff of HQ KFOR were presents, aswell as representatives of the 11nations 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 thecourage of the former governmentand the support of the allies, speciallythe 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 freedomand finally the demand for the16 Oct. 31, 2005www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLEreunification with the brothers andsisters of the Federal Republic ofGermany. He honored and exemplifiedthe German reunification as amodel for other countries andregions. "Non-violent form of protestand civilian resistance make theweapons of a superior and repressivestate 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.www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 17

Text by MAJ Alfonso Boo and LTSara De Miguel, SP ArmyPhotos by Armend AqifiDecreeTo o all those who may read andunderstand thisUnder the reign rof Isabel of Castileand Ferdinad of Aragon, Monarchsof Spain - named The CatholicMajesties by the grace of popeAlexander VI - the greatest feast ofthe known world was orderdered ed andundertaken: the discovery y ofAmerica.On October 12, 1492, after 72 daysof sailing, under the leadership ofAdmiral Colon, sailor Rodrigo deTriana spotted land. This eventchanged mankind's perception of theearth leading to something not evenColon could have imagined: themerging of two worlds.Since then there e has been a commonbond, which unites 400 million peo-ple: a rich and beautiful language,the SPANISH, spoken in 23 coun-tries of five continents. To commem-orate that date, in Spain by HMMaria of Augsburg g and HM the KingAlfonso XIII, and in Argentina byPresident Irigoyen, His Majesty theKing D. Juan Carlos I of Spain, Godpresereserve him, has decreed eed that theOctobe12, feast of the VirVirgin ofPilar, , shall be the National Holiday.Accordinglydingly, , he orderdered ed to allSpaniards, private people andauthorities, to honor and make lawhis decree.ee.It shall be done.The Spanish National Day was celebratedin the Camp Base España,Istok, on October 12.By noon, in presence of military andcivilian authorities, the official ceremonystarted. Under the Command18 Oct. 31, 2005 www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLET h e S p a n i s h N a t i o n a l D a yof 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 reinforceand 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

KFOR CHRONICLE20Oct. 31, 2005Text and photos 1st LT Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian ArmySixteen 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 classification,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 overloading.Vehicle operators may drive across withoutrestrictions if their vehicles' class numbers are lessthan or equal to the bridge class number. All classifiedvehicles and bridges in the theater of operationsrequire classification signs. Bridge classificationsigns 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 classifyinga 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 materialproperties 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 CHRONICLEwww.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 21

KFOR CHRONICLET u r k i s h V i c t o r y D a yText and photos MAJ Fuat Araz,Turkish ArmyAugust 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 celebrationsconducted. TF Dragashhave conducted a celebration ceremonyof 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 freedomand 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 to22 Oct. 31, 2005rebuild. "Now, no nation can be satisfiedonly by the peace and safety inhis country. Every country is alsoaffected with events that happenedoutside of its borders. From thisscope, Turkish Armed Forces havebeen 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 officersand 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 conducted.www.nato.int/kfor

AKFOR CHRONICLECelebration to RememberBy Tech. Sgt. Claudette HutchinsonHQ KFOR PIOPhotos by 1st Lt Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian ArmyIt 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 differencesand 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 celebration.He expressed his appreciationand thanks for the contributions ofKFOR's women to the mission ofproviding a safe and secure environmentfor the people of Kosovo, incollaboration with their male counterparts.This simple idea planted the seed,which grew into a classy event,bringing 30 women from very differentworlds, together. The fruits of thisidea were instrumental in improvingand building relationships, comradeshipand friendships among womenwho once thought they were different,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.www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 23

KFOR CHRONICLEWorking Together Tow"Nothing in the world, it seems to me, is more important thanHermannText and photos 1st LT MaksymNedria, Ukrainian ArmyAccording to the experts, early childhoodis the most sensitive developmentalperiod of human personality.During this developmental phase thechild's first experiences contributesentirely towards healthy development.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 educationand day-care for up to 120children from the SOS Children'sVillage and neighborhood from 3 to 6years old.24Oct. 31, 2005www.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLEards a Better Futureattending to a child"GmeinerThere 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 permanenthome in a family-style environmentto 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 programgrow 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 skiboots,exercise mats, balls and variousother 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/kforOct. 31, 2005 25

KFOR CHRONICLEBy Tech. Sgt. Claudette HutchinsonHQ KFOR PIOPhotos by 1st LT Maksym Nedria,Ukrainian ArmyIt 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 somany participants from such differentparts of the world making an effort forcompleting a task together. The soldiers'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 differentgoals; some wanted to setrecords, some to break them; however,most looked forward to theexperience and challenge of finishingthe 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 weatherand terrain," said Pvt. A.Q.D A N C O26Oct. 31, 2005www.nato.int/kfor

NM a r c hKFOR CHRONICLElonger to finish the course. Someeven stopped to enjoy the view andtake pictures, of the leaves shimmeringin the mid-morning sun displayingthe 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 friendlycompetition with the other countries.We helped each other alongthe way," said Tech. Sgt. LesterSergeant Neipert, HQ KFOR(USAF). He finished in 3:21 mins.Vestergaard, Danish Contingent.The 25.2 km route was a primaryand secondary road, to include somevery rough and steep terrain. All participantshad 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 everyoneto train and prepare seriouslybefore participating, in order to avoidinjuries.Later, Private Vestergaard learnedthis lesson of being properly prepared,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. Thefirst 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 bitwww.nato.int/kfor Oct. 31, 2005 27

KFOR CHRONICLEThe Fast i28Oct. 31, 2005By MAJ Hassan Chbani,Moroccan Army andMr. Armend AqifiKFOR ChronicleRAMADAN: 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 selfdiscipline,self-restraint and generosityand 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 reliablesource, the month of Ramadanis declared over, and the month ofwww.nato.int/kfor

KFOR CHRONICLEn Ramadan"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 specialprayer, and accompanied bycelebration, socializing, festivemeals and some gift giving especiallyfor 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 INKOSOVO:In accordance with his duty and hismission, Moroccan contingentcontinue to serve peace andfreedom in his AOR. Field SurgeryHospital, socialworkers and Combat Coy areproud to accomplish their missionin order to contribute to maintainmoral welfare and security for thepeople of Kosovo regardless ofethnicities.www.nato.int/kforOct. 31, 2005 29

KFOR CHRONICLEName: Turan CivciRank: Chief Master SergeantAge: 40 years oldUnit in Kosovo: J3 Admin, Film CityUnit in Turkey: Turkish Air ForcePeacekeeper’s ProfileAbout 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 missingthem, but I think that is quite normal.After Kosovo: First, I will take a vacation with my family. We will visit my relatives.Then I will continue my military service back at my home unit, Turkey.Peacekeeper’s ProfileName: Claudette HUTCHINSONRank: 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 isvery vital to the peace and stability of this region. I am pleased to see howmilitary people, from various nations, are able to come together and worktowards fulfilling one common mission. This NATO peacekeeping mission is anexample 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 mostworried because, now he has to do all the cooking and washing. Seriously, atfirst my family was a bit worried about my mission. However, they are used tothe requirements of my job and so they understand that this comes with being apart of the U.S. Air Force. Nevertheless, I feel blessed, because they are verysupportive, and capable of handling everything during my absence. In fact, I amable to focus on my mission here, knowing that everything at home is well takencare of.Peacekeeper’s ProfileName: 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 ofit. The work in a multinational unit improved my skills in the matters of thejob I have been assigned for. I believe my mission here has contributed tothe overall safety of the residents of Kosovo.Family reaction: My family understood my decision of coming here and theyhave been supporting me my entire mission. They are waiting for me to getback in Bulgaria safely.After Kosovo: I might take some vacation and then go on serving for the same unit I had served for before mymission but with more experience.30Oct. 31, 2005www.nato.int/kfor

Theatre ChaplainKFOR CHRONICLELieutenant Colonel Don Gianluigi AroffoBIOGRAPHIEBorn 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.KFORCommander KFOR:LTG Giuseppe ValottoItalian ArmyChief PublicInformation KFOR:COL Pio SabettaItalian ArmyChief InternalInformation KFOR &Editor in Chief:MAJ Dr. Jo SCHÖPFAustrian Armyschoepfj@main.kfor.nato.intJournalist1st LT Maksym NedriaUkrainian ArmyPhotographerMr. Armend AqifiLayoutKosova Sotwww.nato.int/kforCHRONICLEThe KFOR Chronicle isproduced by HQ KFOR.It is fully funded by KFOR,authorized and published forKFOR forcesin the area of responsibility.The contents are not necessarilythe official views of,or endorsed by, the coalitiongovernments’ defencedepartments.The KFOR Chronicle isprinted by KOSOVA SOTTel: 038 548 402The KFOR Chroniclewelcomes contributionsfrom its readers, such asletters, articles, photos orstory ideas.Copy should be submittedto KFOR Chronicle,HQ KFOR, Pristina on a 3.5-inch floppy disk, Zip disk or e-mail address below.Photos can be sentdigitally or high resolutionhard copy.How to contactKFOR Chronicle:Phone:Int: +389 268 2897Kos.:(038) 503 603 2897KPN: 2897, 2402FAX: 2373E-mail:kforchronicle@main.kfor.nato.intInternet:www.nato.int/kforCover photo byMr. Armend AqifiThank you for your supportTech. Sgt. ClaudetteHutchinson, US AFContributing nations inKFOR:HQ KFORCanadaHungaryNorwayPortugalSloveniaUnited KingdomMNB (C)Leading Nation:Czech RepublicContributingNations:FinlandIrelandLatviaSlovakiaSwedenMNB (NE)Leading Nation:FranceContributingNations:BelgiumDenmarkEstoniaGreeceLuxembourgMoroccoMNB (E)Leading Nation:United States ofAmericaContributingNations:ArmeniaGreeceLithuaniaNorwayPolandUkraineMNB (SW)Leading Nation:GermanyContributingNations:ArgentinaAustriaAzerbaijanBulgariaGeorgiaItalyRomaniaSpainSwitzerlandTurkeyOct. 31, 2005 31