SWIETOSZOW, POLAND - Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor Regiment (Thunderbolt), 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas, took part in a welcoming ceremony hosted by Polish 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade, 11th Armored Calvary Division, Zagan, Poland, March 19, 2018.
The welcoming ceremony provided the forum for Lt. Col. Eric G. Melloh, commander of 2-70th AR, and Polish Col. Zbigniew Śliżewski, deputy commander of 10th ACB, to speak to the Soldiers of both units.
"On the field today stands two proud organizations," said Melloh. "The 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade and 2nd Battalion, 70th Armored Regiment. The partnership between the United States and Poland, and our armies, is strong and true."
The 'Thunderbolt' battalion recently arrived to Świętoszów in early March, replacing 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd ABCT.
The battalion will continue building upon the capabilities' previous units established to enhance interoperability between the two nations.
"I express my deep conviction that our cooperation will be very fruitful and that it will be a great opportunity to develop new skills," said Śliżewski. "We will jointly carry out our tasks while trying to find an optimal way to build interoperability."
During their rotation in Poland, 2-70th AR is scheduled continue to conducting partnership missions.
"The Soldiers (of both armies) will train on the tactical range, small-arms ranges, and all available facilities of the brigade," said Śliżewski. "I am convinced that the cooperation of my soldiers with the American Soldiers will bring tangible benefits."
These training events are designed to improve interoperability, strengthen relationships and trust among allied armies, contribute to regional stability, and demonstrate U.S. commitment to NATO.
The 'Thunderbolt' battalion is deployed to Europe in support of Atlantic Resolve, an ongoing demonstration of the U.S. commitment to the security of NATO ally and partner nations in the region.
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