Cron April 2011_Layout 1 - ACO - NATO

Story by Captain Alexandridis Dimitrios, Greek ArmyPhotos by Master Sergeant Mitsios Grigorios, GreekArmyIt’s been almost 5 months, but now the mandate of theHellenic Battalion, subordinated to Multi-NationalBattle Group East (MNBG E), is coming to an end. 5months full of activities and constant effort to embeditself into its area of responsibility (AOR) and creatinglasting bonds of trust with the local population.Forging strong bonds with the locals takes time.Continuous, varied and relevant efforts are required toprove yourself as a reliable and trustworthycounterpart. KFOR units Kosovo-wide constantly tryto make themselves relevant to the lives of localpeople; and the Hellenic Battalion is certainly noexception. The Hellenic Battalion always tries to do itsbest within its means and capabilities, and the rewardsare magnificent. It’s the smile you offer and the bighand you extend to ease people’s worries; it’s the timetaken to listen to a little child’s story and share a hug!Hellenic Battalion has contributed significantly to thelocal population’s needs during the last five months,distributing tons of food and clothing. During this tourapproximately four tons of clothing and one ton offood has been distributed in the Ferizaj/Urosevac,Babljak and Recak areas during humanitarianoperations. The source of this humanitarian aid wasmainly the Greek-Orthodox Church.Around the New Year the Hellenic Battalion made a12 KFOR Chronicle, April 2011