Mayor of Longare, Matteo Zennaro, receives a brigade challenge coin from Col. Stephen Skells during their first office call. The meeting provided an opportunity for the leaders to discuss the relationship between the 207th and the local Italian communities. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla)

VICENZA, Italy – Col. Stephen Skells, commander of the 207th Military Intelligence Brigade (Theater), took the opportunity to forward his relationship with local leaders in Longare and Arcugnano as part of U.S. Army Garrison Italy’s Community Alliance Program.

Skells visted Mayor Matteo Zennaro of Longare and Mayor Paolo Pellizzari of Arcugnano. It was an introductory visit for Skells, who took command in May. The meetings gave the leaders a chance to discuss the relationship between the 207th and the local Italian communities.

In Longare, Skells updated Zennaro on the brigade's future relocation to the post in Longare, to include some of the positive aspects of the move and potential challenges. The post has been under construction and with minimal staffing. Longare citizens are waiting for the Soldiers’ return, as it is good for business, Zennaro said.

“Once we move over, we can bring some of your businesses on post and hold our events in the community,” Skells said.

Mayor of Longare, Matteo Zennaro, poses alongside Col. Stephen Skells during their first office call. The meeting provided an opportunity for the leaders to discuss the relationship between the 207th and the local Italian communities. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla)

Zennaro expressed curiosity about the military intelligence mission. Skells explained how the unit provides critical information to the Southern European Task Force, Africa commander to make informed decisions for any contingency operations. This is in support of U.S. Army Europe, Africa and U.S. Africa Command.

Skells invited Zennaro to Caserma Ederle to learn more from 207th Soldiers. He also asked Zennaro to take part in the brigade's "Turkey Bowl" in November, an American holiday and football tradition.

Afterward, Skells met Pellizzari in nearby Arcugnano. Pellizzari asked similar questions about the brigade and also received an invite to upcoming events on post.

Col. Stephen Skells poses with Paolo Pellizzari, mayor of Arcugnano, during their first office call. The meeting provided an opportunity for the leaders to discuss the relationship between the 207th and the local Italian communities. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla)

These meetings with the mayors play a pivotal role in strengthening the relationship between the 207th and the communities of Longare and Arcugnano,” Skells said.

“Continued interaction with the Italian community humanizes and demystifies our mission,” Skells said. “We want to build a strong rapport with the local community that lasts for years to come.”