MIHAIL KOGALNICEANU, Romania - US and Romanian forces gathered at the main gate of Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base in remembrance of former veterans who once served at the base, April 1, 2017.
Many military and civilian officials attended the wreath laying ceremony, including the U.S. command group of MK Air Base, and the officials from the adjoining town of Mihail Kogalniceanu. There were feelings of pride throughout all participants of the ceremony. Romanian Cpl. Marian Simon, a soldier with the 348th Air Defense Battalion, spoke about the event's impact on him.
"My ancestors gave their lives for what we do now and I'm proud to be a part of that," he said.
Sharing moments like this is one of the underlying goals of Operation Atlantic Resolve, a NATO mission between the U.S. and its European Allies and partners which promotes peace, builds friendships and strengthens regional stability.
The looks of admiration were visible on the faces of the Romanian people as they listened to their former troops who once defended the nation. Romanian Lt. Andre Rusu, the military police commander of MK Air Base, expressed his feelings on hearing the words of his predecessors.
"It makes me feel deep emotions, a great sense of pride for the generations who fought before me," he said.
The wreaths were laid at the base of the 36th Infantry Regiment Memorial, which commemorates the struggles and sacrifices of the 36th Infantry Regiment and the many wars the unit participated in. They were a unit known for their great courage in battle.
The ceremony was not all solemn words detailing the service of past generations, however. There was a prayer over the event by invited clergy, blessing the retired generals and the mayor of the city, and local children performed traditional dances. The Romanian soldiers of the 348 ADB in attendance also marched for the people with U.S. forces marching behind in a show of unity.
U.S. Army 1st Lt. Samuel Jolley, protection officer of Task Force 1st Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment shed some light on the American involvement with the day's activities.
"Events like this strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Romania," he said.
The ceremony concluded with a tour around the base for the veterans to see how Americans and Romanians were working together to keep the spirit of camaraderie and fellowship alive. Participants were provided with a look at the Task Force 1-8 IN motor pool and a small candle lighting ceremony at the base chapel. Jolley was quick to summarize the action-packed day.
"Any time that U.S. and Romanian counterparts get together to talk or share experiences is incredibly valuable," he said.
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