WIESBADEN, Germany -- U.S. Army Europe hosted former senior leaders, German partners and industry experts at a forum July 28-30.
The three-day event focused on "learning from the past, preparing for the future" and featured various panels of experts each day.
"To have this much knowledge and wisdom in one room at one time is just fantastic," said Command Sgt. Maj. Sheryl Lyon, Army Europe's senior enlisted advisor. "The fact that they [the speakers] are willing to share it with us makes it that much better.
Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, commander of U.S. Army Europe, opened the forum by providing a preview for the conference's key topics, which included operational environments and challenges, Russia's current state, Operation Atlantic Resolve, building the NATO alliance and supporting allies and partners.
Leaders from NATO opened the second day with discussions on building symmetry within the alliance, focusing on the mandated two percent financial contribution from each of the 26-nation members. This resulted in discussion about how the allies strive for economic excellence while some countries are in a recession.
Other experts were present to discuss the continuing threat from Russia, specifically the Russian government's "grand strategy." The panel explained that this strategy was evolved into information warfare, something drastically different than what was seen at the end of the Cold War. Additionally, discussions about Russia's current actions in Eastern Europe sparked debate on how NATO is dealing with the situation.
The second day concluded with a panel of retired generals from the U.S. and Germany, reflecting on their previous command time, offering those who now fill their boots guidance and knowledge. Most topics were emphasized by anecdotes from each panel member as they remembered how they handled some of the most demanding decisions. Although many stories were told, the overall points of trusting our partners and finding practical solutions were strongly emphasized.
The last day wrapped up by discussing Operation Atlantic Resolve, mainly looking toward future possibilities. Freedom of movement, rapid deployment exercises and the regionally aligned forces all sparked discussions.
"There is an atmosphere of total mutual trust and confidence which goes beyond any expectations," said German Brig. Gen. Eckart Klink, Landeskommando Hessen commander. "We have always been working very closely together but this conference clearly highlights not only the need but the capacity and the potential of further development."
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About us: U.S. Army Europe is uniquely positioned in its 51 country area of responsibility to advance American strategic interests in Europe and Eurasia. The relationships we build during more than 1,000 theater security cooperation events in more than 40 countries each year lead directly to support for multinational contingency operations around the world, strengthen regional partnerships and enhance global security.
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