VILSECK, Germany - In the spirit of Theater Security Cooperation and with the help of the Joint Multinational Training Command, Troopers from 2nd and 4th Squadrons of the Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment traveled to Babadag Training Area in Romania and the Novo Selo Training Area in Bulgaria to take part in Task Force East.
As the face of modern warfare changes, developing strong bonds between coalition partners has become a vital asset in the Global War on Terror. Task Force East provides a great opportunity for 2SCR to assist allied partners in developing training capability as NATO continues to transform.
While participating in TF-East, U.S. Troops train side-by-side with Soldiers from the Romanian and Bulgarian Land Forces in a variety of combat tactics, techniques, and procedures. This interoperability allows 2SCR Troopers the unique opportunity to learn from their NATO counterparts. Cultivating a better understanding of each other allows them to develop vital relationships fundamental to coalition success in future operations.
Training in the rugged terrain of Bulgaria and Romania provides Dragoon Troopers the chance to operate in austere conditions different from the Bavarian countryside of home station.
The exercise is the Regiment's first fully resourced training opportunity and reset process since last year's deployment to Iraq and completion of the Army Force Generation reset process. As an added bonus to the exercise, TF-East provides the opportunity for six out the 12 Maneuver Companies within the Regiment to certify as well as establish a functional understanding of how NATO allies operate.
Training
Task Force East remains one of the U. S. Army Europe Commander's strategic priorities and plays a key role in U.S. European Command's Theater Security Cooperation program. The intent of the exercise is to build interoperability, professional and personal relationships necessary for success in today's contingency operations and those of the future.
Romania and Bulgaria are two of several partners in Europe that conduct training with U.S. forces. Training in the region allows U.S. Soldiers to learn how to respond to any regional security threat. Cooperation between coalition partners allows forces to work together better and handle any contingency situation that may arise.
Romania and Bulgaria have continued to support U.S. operations overseas. The geography of these countries, allows other allied partners the chance to see the benefits of working with the U.S. at both the tactical and operational level.
The exercise also provides an opportunity for 2SCR Troopers to act as ambassadors in both countries. Interaction between American Soldiers and the local populace allows each to discover they are similar people with many of the same interests.
The direct contact between U.S. Troops and the Romanian and Bulgarian people allows for the development of stronger ties between our diverse cultures.
Social Sharing