BAUMHOLDER, Germany -- U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Commander, Col. Keith E. Igyarto, and other garrison staff welcomed local mayors and host-nation civic leaders around the Baumholder Military Community to Smith Barracks Dec. 7 to strengthen relationships and provide a better understanding of the installation's various missions and way ahead.
After introductions and opening remarks from the commander, the 21 area representatives attending the information forum and installation tour received a mission briefing and engaged in a discussion regarding current garrison activities, future plans and the importance of the Baumholder installation to the local area.
The dialogue was two-way and Igyarto stressed how the surrounding communities and local leadership is significant to ensure not only Soldiers and families are taken care of but also the mission and rotational support.
"These kinds of host-nation events provide a great opportunity to share information between our communities and build our relationships," said Igyarto. "We are fortunate to enjoy a very strong partnership with the areas surrounding the Baumholder Military Community."
After the briefings and discussion, the local leaders visited the garrison fire department on Smith Barracks and received a windshield tour of the installation.
Developing the resolute partnership between the communities is a continuing effort on both sides, and many local leaders were glad to be a part of the collaborative event.
"I am very impressed with what is going on," said Klaus Feis, mayor of the District of Birkenfeld. "It has been years since I have been here, and I have really seen how you support your community behind the gates. I saw this as very important (opportunity) to speak with other people from the other towns (as well). We don't do this often enough."
The Mayor of the District of Baumholder Bernd Alsfasser echoed his colleague's sentiments.
"The event was awesome. The information which was provided to us was very informative," the Baumholder Union Community Mayor said. "The windshield tour was also very interesting. It was great to physically see the progress of the townhouse project and the status of the U.S. community."
Local leaders attending the event that fostered the solid bond between the garrison and the communities outside its gates included representatives from Baumholder, Berglangenbach, Berschweiler, Eckersweiler, Fohren-Linden, Fraunberg, Hahnweiler, Leitzweiler, Mettweiler, Reichenbach, Rohrbach, Rueckweiler, Ruschberg, Idar-Oberstein, Birkenfeld, St. Wendel, Kusel, Nohfelden and Freisen.
Social Sharing