PLOIESTI, Romania- More than 300 soldiers of the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment conducted Operation Cavalry March. They trekked more than 400 kilometers across Romania from Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base near the Black Sea, through Transylvania to the Cincu Training Area in central Romania during a two-day movement of troops and more than 90 vehicles, May 13-14. The movement, as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve, demonstrated NATO's ability to move freely within the alliance.
Operation Atlantic Resolve is a visible demonstration of the commitment of the United States to the security of NATO allies.
"We're here to demonstrate our support for our allies here in Romania," said Spc. Javier M. Lopez, a combat engineer with 2/2 CR, and a native of McAllen, Texas. "And we can see their appreciation as they wave and cheer as we drive by."
The march stopped at the cities of Ploiesti, Sinaia and Brasov, providing the U.S. soldiers with opportunities to interact with Romanian veterans and local nationals as they experienced the Romanian culture through community engagements while reassuring the communities of the United States presence in their country, working together with the Romanian forces to protect Europe.
"The relationship between our countries and our military is strong, which shows that we stand together," said Lt. Col. Theodore A. Johnson, squadron commander of 2/2 CR, and a native of Fairfax, Virginia. "Shared service leads to unbreakable bonds, and this bond continues to grow stronger through our joint-training and exercises."
Business was mixed with leisure during the days of movement, while the two forces learned more about each other. During the joint-training of Operation Atlantic Resolve, the United States and Romanian militaries have learned about each other's communication, equipment and planning strategies. Yet leisurely activities during the march also provided the soldiers with opportunities to learn about one another through static displays, speaking with local nationals including Romanian veterans and sampling of the local foods.
"It's great to get out and socialize with the civilians," said Spc. Tyler M. Bingham, a Signals Systems Support Specialist with 2/2 CR, and a native of Milton, Wisconsin. "I enjoy learning new things about their culture while teaching the Romanian citizens about my own culture."
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