BRATISLAVA, Slovak Republic - Engines roared to life as military vehicles backed into their parking spaces, citizens from the nearby community already anxiously drawing near to take a closer look at a tangible representation of the Soldiers that came from so far away to offer peace to their community. The vehicles lined into precise rows represented varying nations, each providing their own unique contribution to the mission.
Soldiers assigned to 4th Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, currently stationed in Vilseck, Germany, joined their Slovak military counterparts and local citizens to participate in an Open Day static display during the combined training exercise Dragoon Crossing, as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve, Bratislava, Slovak Republic, Sept. 16, 2015.
Falling on the Slovak Armed Forces' Open Day, a day dedicated for the community of the Slovak Republic to have the opportunity to explore and learn more about their military, the static display joined the NATO allies of both American and Slovak military assets.
This combination of both counterparts allowed all involved to learn more about the Soldiers both from near and far away who dedicate their talents, time, and assets to the peace of the region.
"We are allied members, sharing a collective goal," said Lt. Col. Jonathan Due, squadron commander of 4th Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment. "We have limited time to train and learn from one another, so we must take every chance we can to build a strong relationship with our allies."
As Slovak children excitedly crawled into American military vehicles, adult members of the community asked questions about the similarities and differences of the vehicles and equipment belonging to their NATO friends in comparison to their own military assets.
"Having our equipment and vehicles lined up right next to those of our allies helps us to develop shared and common understanding of what we each bring to the fight," said Due. "This is what interoperability looks like
Sharing common goals, interests, and objectives allows the NATO counterparts to forge newfound, lasting relationships with one another. This strengthening of the alliance allows all involved in Operation Atlantic Resolve to have a friend to turn to if help is ever needed.
"This static display demonstrates our operational capability to move long distances rapidly to assist our allies if needed," said Due. "This helps us to build relationships so we have someone to turn to if there's a problem, building the relationships are the secret of interoperability at the tactical level."
Slovak and American friends forged new friendships over a bowl of steaming Slovak goulash or in front of a Stryker vehicle, amidst warm smiles during the day set aside to celebrate the combination of two forces united to bring stability and peace for years to come.
Social Sharing