Chronicle 08

Dear comrades of our KFOR family!

Within the last year, KFOR has strengthened its efforts in developingpersonal relationship with citizens and leadership in Kosovo throughintensive communication and constructive dialogue. All the while,KFOR maintained its focus on the execution of the mission. TheKFOR family welcomes everyone who shares our values of tolerance,mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. However, there has and willbe no tolerance for anyone who would threaten the safe and secureenvironment that we all achieved. Thus we continued the work of mypredecessor as my successor will do.

The wonderful people of Kosovo deserve a decision, so that it will bepossible for them to shape their future in Europe by their own hands.I am sure, that one day all residents of Kosovo will live their lives inpolitical, social and economical stability.

It has been a great honor for me to serve as the head of the KFORfamily. I want to thank every member of this family for their outstandingperformance during the last year. Every single soldier has been a trueprofessional, using his skills to enable a better future for all people ofKosovo, true to our motto,

2 KFOR Chronicle, Aug 2007

Commander KFOR:Commander KFOR:Lt. Gen. Roland Kather, DE Army

Chief Public Information:Chief Public Information:Col. Michael Knop, DE Army

Chief Internal InformationChief Internal Information& Editor in Chief :& Editor in Chief :

Maj. Ewald Klinger, AUT [email protected]

Journal is tJournal is tMaj. Ihor Levchenko, UKR Army

Journal is tJournal is tOR-7 Cheryl Toner, USAF

Photographer & LayoutPhotographer & LayoutMr. Armend Aqifi

The KFOR Chronicle is printed by KOSOVA SOT

Tel: 038 548 402

The KFOR Chronicle is produced and fully funded by HQKFOR. It is published for KFOR

forces in the area of responsibility. The contents are not necessarilythe official views of, or endorsed

by, the coalition governments’defense departments.

Editorial content is edited, preparedand provided by the InternalInformation Section of HQ

KFOR’s Public Information Office(PIO) in Pristina, Kosovo.

PIO HQ KFOR reserves the rightto edit content to conform to styleand space requirements. Articlesrun on a space-available basis.

HQ KFORArgentinaEstoniaHungaryNetherlandsNorwayPortugalUnited Kingdom

MNTF (C)Czech RepublicFinlandIrelandLatviaSlovakia Sweden

MNTF (N)FranceBelgium DenmarkGreeceLuxembourgMoroccoEstonia

MNTF (S)Germany AustriaAzerbaijanBulgariaGeorgiaSwitzerlandTurkey

MNTF (W)ItalyHungaryRomaniaSloveniaSpain

MNTF (E)United Statesof AmericaArmeniaGreece LithuaniaPolandRomaniaUkraine

Nations within KFOR:KFOR CHRONICLE

Cover photo byArmend Aqifi

Contact KFOR Chronicle:Phone Int: +389 2268 2897Kos.: (038) 503 603 2897

KPN: 2897, 2402FAX Int: +389 2268 2752

E-mail:[email protected]

Internet: www.nato.int/kfor

[Commentary]

HEADQUARTERS KOSOVO FORCERoland KATHER

Lieutenant GeneralCOMMANDER KFOR

3KFOR Chronicle, Aug 2007

[This Month’s Features]

New DCOM takes over in Transfer ofResponsibility ceremony ............ Pages 4 - 5

Portuguese celebrate Infantry Dayin friendly competition ........... Pages 10 - 11

Irish lead MNTF C following a TOA ........................ Pages 14 - 15

Cultural HeritageKosovo National Library ...... Pages 18 - 19

MNTF Easttrains with UN forces ................. Pages 20 - 21

[Inside KFOR]


Text by OR-7 Cheryl L. TonerPhotos by Combat Camera Team

Maj. Gen. Gerhard Stelz took over as the new DeputyCommander, KFOR, from Maj. Gen. Roberto Bernardini, in aTransfer of Authority ceremony in Film City on August 3, 2007.COMKFOR Lt. Gen. Roland Kather presided over theceremony outside of the HQ KFOR building, as a multi-national formation, flanked by two smaller flights ofPortuguese soldiers and KFOR MSU soldiers, looked on. Maj. Gen. Bernardini thanked Lt. Gen. Kather for his"outstanding leadership" during his 12 months here. Whilehappy to go back to Italy, the outgoing DCOM said he leaveswith mixed feelings.Lt. Gen. Kather then thanked Maj. Gen. Bernardini for hishard work here, and appreciated his "courage to tell me hishonest opinion even if it differed from mine." TheCOMKFOR said this is important as his advisors need to "tell

[Inside KFOR]

KFOR Chronicle, Aug 2007 5

him the truth and not what he might want to hear." He said thecombination of General Bernardini's candor, intelligence,experience and competence made the DCOM "my most trustedpersonal advisor." The COMKFOR then talked about the general's specificaccomplishments as both an "ambassador for KFOR" at variousmeetings, as well as his focus on check point operations.General Kather said this "contributed to our highly successfuloperations associated with the numerous MSDdemonstrations."Lt. Gen. Kather finished his speech by welcoming Maj. Gen.Stelz back to the Balkans. The COMKFOR said he looksforward to working with the new DCOM as General Katherfinishes his tour here. "With your extensive background inoperations, I am sure you will be a tremendous asset," said theCOMKFOR. "I look forward to working closely togetherduring the final weeks of my tour here as we execute ourmission of providing a safe and secure environment for all thepeople of Kosovo."The ceremony ended with Maj. Gen. Bernardini being awardeda non-Article 5 NATO medal and the Ehrenkruez derBundeswehr in Gold, the highest medal of the German ArmedForces.

[Inside KFOR]

Swiss AF COS visit

Lt. Gen. Kather met with Maj. Gen.Stutz, COS Swiss Armed Forces,during his visit to HQ KFOR.

Shooting TrainingCOMKFOR General Kather practices hisshooting skills with his Close ProtectionTeam.

AUG 2AUG 2

Chief of German Operations Command visitCOMKFOR Lt. Gen. Roland Kather tookpart in an LMT-forces patrol in Urosevac/Ferizaj during his visit to MNTF E.AUG 5AUG 5

TOA DCOMGeneral Roland Kather hands over theresponsibility as DCOM KFOR from Maj.Gen. Bernandini to Maj. Gen. Stelz.

COM JFC Naples visitCommander Joint Forces Command, AdmiralUlrich, met with COMKFOR General Katherand Kosovo government officials.

AUGAUG 8 8

Chinese Ambassador visit

Lt. Gen. Kathermet withAmbassador WangWengang, ChineseHead of Mission,at HQ KFOR.

Medal ParadeLt. Gen. Kather congratulates decoratedsoldiers during the Medal Parade at HQ KFOR.AUGAUG 2 2

AUGAUG 33

AUG 1AUG 1

Road inauguration in the North

COMKFOR GeneralKather inaugurated thenew road inBorcane/Borcan, withCommander MNTFNorth and the Mayor ofLeposavic/Leposaviq.

AUG 1AUG 1

AUG 6AUG 6


[Inside KFOR]

Farewell visit to MNTF WCOMKFOR General Kathermet with the members ofthe Command group ofMNTF W during hisfarewell tour.

AUG 9 AUG 9

Troika in HQ KFOR

COMKFOR General Kather welcomesmembers of the Troika during their visit toKosovo.

AUG 1AUG 111

Black Madonna CelebrationGeneral Roland Kather attends the BlackMadonna Celebration in Letnica/Letnice.AUGAUG 1515

High level meeting in Nis Lt. Gen. Kather and the Chief of Defence

of the Serbian Armed Forces, Lt. Gen. Ponos, met duringthe last High Level meeting in Nis, Serbia.

Farewell visit to MNTF E General Roland Kather makes a farewellvisit to the MNTF E AOR.AUGAUG 17 17

Farewell visit to KTM

General RolandKather saysgoodbye to hissoldiers from theKTM Battalion.

Farewell visit to MNTF S COMKFOR General Kather pays a farewellvisit to MNTF South.AUGAUG 1313

AUGAUG 14 14

Farewell visit toMNTF N

Lt. Gen. Kather paysa farewell visit toMNTF North.

AUGAUG 1010

AUGAUG 1616


8

[Inside KFOR]

KFOR Chronicle, Aug 2007

Text by Lt. Col. Yann Gravethe, French Army

Photos by MNTF N

Committed into Kosovo for two monthsnow, FREBAT 15 (15th FrenchBattalion) is one of the four manoeuvreunits of MNTF North headed by FrenchBrig. Gen. Eric Arnaud.It is definitely a combined andmultinational battalion strong of morethan 1,000 servicemen and women thatensures a safe and secure environmentin the Northern part of Kosovo whileexploiting their best abilities of itscompanies.Col. Michel Esparsa commands it inleaning on the staff of the 17th AirborneEngineer Regiment he leads in France.A motorized Moroccan infantrycompany as well as a Belgianmechanized infantry company comprisethis battalion's multinational character.Moreover, to enforce its missions in thelarge with - mountains, plains and twomain built-up areas including thesymbolic town of Mitrovica - FREBATdisposes of varied tactical capacities.These are capabilities are provided by alight cavalry scouting squadron, aNATO-shaped company, a traffic-control and movement-supportsquadron, two companies fitted witharmoured infantry fighting vehicles(AIFV), a wheeled transported infantrycompany, a crowd and riot company

and a support and, command companyincluding a war dogs section. As proved during 2004 events, thenorthern region of Mitrovica remains asensitive area. Nearly 330,000Kosovars live in this region - 260,000KOA (2,000 in three enclaves) and67,000 KOS (3,000 in five enclaves).Nowadays, thanks to the daily action ofFREBAT soldiers patrolling every dayin a friendly "walk and talk attitude"towards the population, the situation isquiet and calm, without any inter-ethnicincidents for several months. Also, afew signs of a multi-ethnic life haveeven risen up. For example, KOSpeople are numerous doing someshopping in the Albanian market whereprices are lower than in their districts,and even KOA and KOS have been seenharvesting together in the fields.

Enforcing their missions in theirrespective sectors of responsibility,FREBAT units also perform operationaltasks and training phases. Thus, inaddition to their framework dailymissions (3,000 foot patrols and morethan 1,500 driving patrols), they haveperformed since last May 18th, nineLong Duration Patrols, two Kosovo-wide operations in other MNTF AORs,15 joint "TOPA DOPA" along theadministrative boundary line withSerbian forces, as well as fourcommand post deployment and trainingexercises, and so on. They have alsoshot 60,000 rounds of ammunition. Moreover, FREBAT 15 benefits thelocal population by using their specificskills. For instance, FREBAT forest firespecialists monitored an uncontrolledfire on July 10, 2007, which burntMount Crnusa flanks in a few hours.More recently, combat divers of 17thAirborne Engineer Regiment devotedthree days at a depth of 25 meters inGazivode lake to search, localize andreturn the body of a 26-year-old man tohis tearful but grateful family.

[Inside KFOR]


Text and photos by SPEC 1st LT. Henrique Schneider, Swiss Army

"Expert Infantry Badge" - This is special recognition offered by the U.S. Army to thebest soldiers. A group of six Austrian and four Swiss soldiers from the Man BnDULJE were allowed to take part in this course offered at Camp Bondsteel. "It's arare opportunity to do this and we feel honored", as 1st Lt. Johannes Draxl (AUCON)puts it.What is that all about? In 31 stations the soldiers could learn many different things:camouflage, hand grenade essentials, basic lifesaving skills, but also many differentweapons were just some of the highlights of the course. In the end, each soldier hadto pass an examination at each station. From about 70 participants, only about 15could fulfill the requirements. No Austrian or Swiss soldier passed it, but it wasworth taking part in it. Our people learned a lot!More than this, it was very interesting to exchange experiences with the other armies,some of them very experienced - like our American friends - and others who aresimilar to our own experience. Ireland, Sweden and Finland are, like Switzerland andAustria, neutral countries with a proven commitment to the internationalpeacekeeping community. To work with them all and to learn from them is a lifetimeopportunity. "It was fun; we learned a lot and had a good time", said LieutenantDraxl. "We made new friends and expanded our horizons".Yes, it was interesting to learn how to employ a bazooka - one that costs $22,000 …each. But it was also terrific to know the story of the American expert teaching thebazooka. He has been in Iraq, Kuwait and Egypt, and now for a year in Kosovo. Afterreturning home, he will start his graduate studies.Or, what about the sergeant teaching how to assemble the machinegun? He entered Iraq as a paratrooper armed with that gun. Howdid he employ it? What tactical and technicalconstrains did he have to plan? What were hisfeelings? "We learned a lot from Iraq", said thesergeant. This alone was very impressive for us!The major in charge of the Expert Infantry Badge putit very simply. "It's tough, it's difficult. But these people canbe proud of doing it. And we are proud of offering it.Besides, we could learn a lot from these Austrian and Swissguys".At the same time, on the other side of Camp Bondsteel,more training was held: the Combat Lifesaver course.Another mixed group from the Man Bn DULJE waslearning how to provide extended first aid services incombat situations. Intravenous infusions, chest injuries,bleeding wounds and helicopter rescues were thehighlights."It is very demanding but at the same time very rewarding.This international atmosphere is just ideal for developingas a soldier in a multinational mission", Said Swiss ArmySergeant Christian Degen. "I like it", an American instructor said. "Teaching ourcomrades something new and making new friends - it's justwhat I want to do"."Non solum mandatum - more than our job". This is theAustrian-Swiss Man Bn Dulje's Motto. By participating inthese international courses our soldiers are showing theircommitment in development and that they take this mottovery seriously. At the same time, we thank the U.S. Armyfor providing this training and for doing more that just teirjobs! Let's continue like this!

Text by OR-7 Cheryl L. Toner, U.S. Air Force

Photos by Armend Aqifi

While the Portuguese celebrated theirNational Infantry Day Aug. 14, 2007,with a friendly competition, theFinish, U.K. and Belgians took itseriously and dominated themornings' events. Under a relentlesssun, warm temperatures and noshade, teams from most of theMNTF's competed at "Slim Lines" inthis annual event.

Running in combat gear - helmet andflak vest with their weapons - teamsof four ran 2.5 kilometres, performeda "task-qualifying event," ran 2.5more kilometres, and then didanother task event. The task eventsincluded breaking down a weaponand quickly putting it back together, a"fireman's carry", accuratelythrowing simulated grenades, anobstacle course, etc.After the physical competition, therewas an awards ceremony and an



outside lunch.Aljubarrota Day

The Portuguese celebrate this daybecause, on August 14, 1385, SãoJorge Field was the site of one of thefew great field battles of the MiddleAges between two royal armies.According to various web sites, thisclash was also one of the mostdecisive events in the history ofPortugal.The Battle of Aljubarrota wasbetween forces commanded by KingJohn I of Portugal and his generalNuno Álvares Pereira, and the armyof King John I of Castile. The battleoccurred between the towns of Leiriaand Alcobaça in central Portugal. Theresult was a decisive defeat of theCastilians and the end of the 1383-1385 crisis, establishing John as Kingof Portugal.Depending on where one looks, thenumbers vary but the information isrelatively the same - the Portuguese,

by strength and equipment, seemed tobe outnumbered by the Castilians byabout 5 or 6 to 1. Not only were thePortuguese "down" by their numbers,the Castilians also had betterequipment. However, tactics used bythe Portuguese led them to theirvictory, and Portuguese independencewas assured as a new dynasty of the

[Inside KFOR]


Text and Photos by OR-5 Klaus Kreimer,Austrian Army

According to the butterfly effect, a butterflyflapping its delicate wings in New York City can setoff a tornado in Tokyo. It is this butterfly effect thatSister Johanna believes in when she is doing her jobin Kosovo. She lets herself to be guided by "divinecontrol", as she calls it. Among other ideas, theconcept of organizing a multi-ethnic sports weekwith parental involvement in order to help thechildren of Kosovo and give them prospects in lifewas conceived many years ago. Considering thatthe children represent a nation's future, SisterJohanna may rightly be referred to as a grassrootspeace activist.Sister Johanna gets support from numerousvoluntary helpers from Austria, donations, andCIMIC soldiers. An event like this could not beconducted without the assistance of militarypeople. Soldiers and material are made availablefor service, security and transportation purposes.As a result, a particularly close partnership hasdeveloped between Sister Johanna and the CIMICpersonnel at Camp Casablanca in Suva Rekaespecially Major Schuh and Captain Spannring.What makes these soldiers stand out are theirspecial capabilities. They are highlycommunicative and unprejudiced, they showsensitivity to their social environment and theyhave a steady character. All this enables them toperform their challenging job in a magnificentmanner.Summer Sports Week 2007 opened with aceremonial lighting of the "Olympic fire" at the


[Inside KFOR]

Pikon Hotel in Siroko/Shirokë on July 20, 2007. Before that,about 40 Kosovar children had the opportunity to visit theprovince "Kärnten" in Austria. This visit was only possiblethanks to the support rendered by CIMIC and the Austrian AirForce, which had provided a C-130 "Hercules" fortransportation. A lot of competitive events were staged duringthe sports week. The Kosovar kids got on very well with eachother and interacted with a great amount of fairness andfriendliness. Even their parents were involved in a number ofevents. About 50 children were symbolically divided into sixnations (Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and GreatBritain) and took part in the competitions as a team, bearing theflag of the country to which they had been assigned. Thepresentation ceremony, which included a variety of cultural tid-bits, such as dance performances and musical contributionsfrom all "participating countries" and Kosovo, took place onJuly 24, 2007. Among the large audience were high-rankedguests of honor: the Commander of MNTF S, BrigadierGeneral Tarçin, the Commander of Maneuver Battalion Dulje,Lieutenant Colonel Schmied, the Chief of the Austrian Elementof UNMIK Police, Major Lorenz and the Chief of CIMICMNTF S, Lieutenant Colonel Konrad.In his address at the presentation ceremony, Brigadier GeneralTarçin spoke about the great significance of Sister Johanna'swork said he was proud of the assistance provided by MNTF Ssoldiers. He stressed that this work would always meet withsupport from military personnel. In particular, he extendedcongratulations to the most important group present, namely thechildren of Kosovo, who have the peaceful future of Kosovo intheir hands.


Text by OR-5 Caroline VaughnPhotos by Armend Aqifi and Combat Camera

An official MNTF C TOA ceremony took place in Camp Ville, July 31,2007. In the company of distinguished visitors and military and civilianguests and nine formations of soldiers, COMKFOR Lt. Gen. RolandKather presided over the ceremony in which Brig. Gen. BerndtGrundevik passed on the symbolic flag signifying the end of his tourof duty to incoming commander, Brig. Gen. Gerry Hegarty. The ceremony conveys the authority and responsibility of commandfrom one officer to another. A unique touch to the day's ceremony wasa Pipe Band from Ireland consisting of six bag pipe players and fivedrummers. The Irish Pipe Band played Ireland's National Anthem followingthe transfer of authority.General Kather personalized the ceremony by thanking MNTF Center soldiers forservice and dedication to KFOR. "Today is different because not only are wechanging the Commander of MNTF Center, but also we are also changing the leadnation", he said. The COMKFOR then thanked everyone for their contributions to our KFORfamily as he welcomed Irish troops as new lead nation of MNTF Center. "…thank you Ireland for taking an important role within KFOR during these crucialtimes", said General Kather."Berndt, your actions and the actions of your Task Force have truly upheld thespirit of this peace keeping operation and enriched the lives of all those you haveencountered", General Kather said as he wished farewell to the outgoingcommander. Words of gratitude and thanks were spoken by the new commander, Brig. Gen.Hegarty, in his speech to the troops. He said he looks forward to theexperience during this critical time in Kosovo's future and theopportunity to command a multi-national task force.During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Berndt Grundevik wasalso awarded a NATO non-Article 5 award.Brig. Gen. Gerry Hegarty was born in Sligo,Ireland. He is married and has two children.This is his first mission in Kosovo. Brig. Gen.Hegarty's last mission was in 2001 inLebanon as Commander Irish Battalion.

14

[Inside KFOR]


[Inside KFOR]


Text by OR-8 Noel O' Callaghan,Irish Army

Photos by MNTF C

C Coy MNTF C arrived in Kosovo onApril 3, 2007, bringing with it a vastpool of experience from previousmissions. In an environment wheresituational awareness is vital, C Coy hastried to create a unique approach todaily operations. They draw on atradition of peacekeeping, whileconstantly seeking to learn from workingin a multi national environment. Thisconcept is reflected in the manner inwhich C Coy approaches its patrols andVehicle Check Points.PatrollingOver time, Irish soldiers serving in CCoy have fostered a close bond withcommunities in their Area ofResponsibility through a system of

village representatives. This facilitates aclose liaison with village leaders and isan effective way of gauging localattitudes or "feeling the pulse" of thepopulation. Around this network ofvillage representatives, C Coy intenselypatrols in order to ensure that situationalawareness is maintained.Quite often this daytime liaison betweenC Coy and its local community feedsinto the approach taken by night timepatrols. While night patrols involve lessinteraction with communities, a KFORpresence usually means a reduced threatof crime and violence. Vehicle Check PointsWhile executed VCPs are vital toproviding freedom of movement, C Coyregularly holds platoon-size "Snatchand Search" VCPs on various MSRs.These have proved very successful andare perhaps the best illustration of how

contributing nations can work togetherfor a common cause. Czech MilitaryWorking Dogs and Swedish Heli assetsare utilised, and all VCPs are conductedin close liaison with the KPS. Kosovo has, and continues to be anexceptional challenging for C CoyMNTF C. The development of aworking relationship with differentnations and the opportunity co-operatewith local communities and the KPShas been of great benefit andsatisfaction to all.

[Inside KFOR]


[Inside KFOR]

Text by Capt. Gianluca Ellena, Italian Army

Photos by TF PSYOPS

Since October 26, 2006, the MNTFWest Psychological Operations TaskForce (POTF) has been deployed in theMNTF W area of responsibility.This TF is small, but with veryinteresting capabilities. Before talkingabout the task force itself, it is importantto know where its members come from. The POTF has been deployed by the28th Reggimento "ComunicazioniOperative" (Operational Communications)located in Pesaro, Italy.Nowadays, the regiment specializes invarious operations.The expertise of the task force is verybroad and at the same time veryspecific. There is a special cross-cultural approach achievedwith long and careful trainingof personnel of all ranks."Communication is ourweapon", said MajorBaldelli, the commander ofthis small Task Force. Hesaid the first goal foreveryone is to support theMNTF W commander inensuring a safe and secureenvironment.

Major Baldelli said his soldiers takeweekly Albanian language classes sincetheir area of responsibility consists ofmore than 90 percent Kosovo Albaniansand he said, "We want to approach localpeople speaking in their language"."This makes the difference" said the TFcommander. "Last week we carried outan info campaign aimed to inform localpopulation of two small villages southof Klina/Kline where KFOR wouldhave performed a blasting operationconcerning old ammunition and someUXOs".He said as they work, it is important totalk and listen to people, and in somecases have reported situations toCIMIC.The unit also has unique areas ofexpertise; Sergeant Vastante, for

instance, has a background as a filmdirector. He is currently producing avideo on protecting the environment,using footage from Rugova Valley. In the end, that is the POTF.

[Cultural Heritage]


Text by OR-7 Cheryl L. TonerPhotos by Armend Aqifi

Walking into the National andUniversity Library of Kosova inPristina/Prishtine, visitors would notthink they are walking into a library atall. Walking on gray and tan marbletiles, the sweeping steps lead visitorsto an impressive foyer, complete witha baby grand piano. Looking down atguests from the second floor balconyare large photos of famous Albanianwriters who have passed away.Where quiet is usually golden in alibrary, here, voices echo off the wallsand nobody does the "shhhhh!" asthey hold their index finger to theirlips. This building actually feels morelike a museum. And that's just on theinside. Even before visitors get inside, theymay marvel at the massive structurewith 99 cupolas and a water fountainthat faces off with the frontdoors. This, withwhat looks

[Cultural Heritage]


like a huge steel net was thrown overthe building, makes this tripdowntown to the library worthwhile. Officially opened in October 1981, thebuilding has 7 ½ floors, with 3 ½underground. But don't ask thelibrarians why there is another ½ floor;there are just as puzzled as you may benow. However, they aren't puzzledwhen it comes to finding that perfectbook by using the "old fashioned" cardcatalogue.University students and citizens whouse the facility are supported by a staffof almost 100 people and there areover 2 million books. KFOR membersmay be happy to know that there is aNATO/KFOR room with books inboth English and Albanian.Within the walls there is also a rarebook collection of about 5,300 books,and over 4,100 items in the rare serialscollections. In the rare bookssection, works date back to 1573.While the building looksrelatively well-kept, its shorthistory is peppered withupheaval. From the late 80'sthrough 1999, the library sufferedthrough the loss of infrastructureand money. During this time, thelibrary was a shelter for Serbianrefugees from Bosnia and

Croatia. Also, according to thelibrary's literature, during the NATOcampaign in 1999, the library was theheadquarters for the Serbian army.The library has a strong partnershipwith both KFOR and with libraryservices in the USA. That bond is sostrong that National Library Week here

is celebrated the same time it isobserved in the USA. During thisweek, KFOR also provides support.For a short lesson in history, this 10-minute trip from Film City is wellworth the time. See you at the library.


Text by OR-7 Cheryl L. TonerPhotos by Armend Aqifi

On an old airstrip in the northern partof Kosovo, the quiet countryside wasinterrupted with the sounds of bothattack and rescue helicopters July 28,2007, as KFOR soldiers from MNTF Eand UNMIK personnel participated ina joint exercise.As the exercise began, two Apachehelicopters came in low and cleared

the airfield. On this day, twounsuspecting students and teacherin a driver's education car -practicing on the old airstrip - willhave stories to tell their friends.An Apache came down andhovered mere meters from the front ofthe car, a move that would put fear inanyone's heart, as the pounding of therotor blades filled the air.Meanwhile, another Apache hoveredas a Black Hawk came in and armed

[Inside KFOR]


forces exited the helicopter,hunched over and running

quickly. In less than a minute,the Black Hawk took off and,from there, UNMIK and

KFOR personnel got to work.One of the ground forces "popped

smoke" from a canister, marking their"rescue" site.As forces "guarded" the troops who justlanded, two "victims" were gettingprepped to be airlifted out. All thewhile, Apache's hovered, their shadowscrawling over the freshly-harvestedhayfields in the mid-day heat.At one point during the exercise, fivehelicopters could be seen in this aerialdance. "It was great", Captain JeremyDuffy, Alpha Co.Commander, said of theexercise. One of the goals, according tothe captain, was to get "lift", medivacand attack helicopters together. Another

goal was to "strengthen the bonds withUN and American forces", he said. "Ifan issue arises where a cooperativeeffort is necessary, we will have thetraining behind us", said Captain Duffy.While it was obvious during thisexercise that two "injured" people weretreated and soon "rescued", anotherperson was also an objective in thisscenario. UNMIK personnel closelyguarded this "important person", usingtheir bodies as shields to ensure theirobjective of safely extracting a high-profile person was met."This training was great for both of us",said Captain Duffy of about 30 KFORand UNMIK participants. "We haven't

been able to do actual

flight missions. We previously only didground training on static aircraft".MNTF E soldiers train about once aquarter with UNMIK personnel;however, Captain Duffy said they'retrying to increase the frequency of theirjoint training. In less than an hour, the exercise wasdone. As the sound of the helicoptersfaded off into the horizon, the onlyevidence of the troop's activities was asmall patch of burned grass where thecanned smoke was popped. Other thanthe grass, the students in the driver's

training car will have anincredible story to tell …but considering how

quiet and peaceful the oldairstrip normally is, their story may be alittle unbelievable.

[Inside KFOR]


By Col. MD Johann Foyse, German Air Force and Maj. MD Roman Wölfl, German Army

Photos by Maj. Henri Derschum, German Army

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever is a rare disease inKosovo, but it is severe and cruel to its victims. A tick bite orcontact with an infected animal or person transmits the virusthat causes the illness. Within a few days, the infected personsuddenly becomes ill with fever, aching muscles, dizziness,neck pain and stiffness, and headache. Soon the person beginsto bleed everywhere: under the skin, from his gums, from hisnose, and in his internal organs. Without treatment, heliterally bleeds to death. There is no vaccine against the Crimean-Congo virus;however, infected persons can be treated with an antiviraldrug. But even with medical treatment, about 30 percent ofvictims die.What makes Crimean-Congo virus a problem inKosovo? - Disease outbreaks occur in warm and moist weather as thetick population grows. Up to now, Kosovo doesn't have theresources to deal with ticks by spraying. - Ticks infect sheep and goats. Many Kosovo citizens live orwork around livestock. Infection is also associated withbutchering infected animals. - Doctors and nurses in hospitals may become infectedthrough exposure to blood and secretions of patients. - Currently the diagnostic capabilities for Crimean-Congoinfections in Kosovo are limited and mainly based on supportby distant foreign medical centres. As diagnostic results may bepending for several weeks, public concern cannot be relievedrapidly in many suspected cases of a hemorrhagic fever. Although there is no vaccination available for soldiers, theuse of insect repellents on skin and clothing should helpprevent tick bites that cause Crimean-Congo infection. Inaddition, troops should not touch human or animal blood or

waste. Still, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagicfever will remain asilent enemy in a fewregions of Kosovo.Recently a specialistteam of the GermanBundeswehr Institute

of Microbiology (InstMikroBioBw) visited the KosovoNational Institute of Public Health (KNIPH) in Prishtina.Among other duties, one of the objectives of theInstMikroBioBw is the development of diagnostic proceduresfor rare diseases and their application under basic laboratoryconditions. Military microbiologists demonstrated a noveldiagnostic procedure for rapid diagnostics of Crimean-Congohemorrhagic fever in humans and trained local KNIPHscientists in its application. Additionally, a safe samplingmethod for collection of diagnostic specimen in even ruralareas was provided. Further visits and a long-termcooperation are planned to extend these first steps of medicaland scientific collaboration.

[Health and Fitness]

Text by OR-9 Schmidt Rainer,German Army

Photos by OR-7 Martin Raabe,German Army

More than 130 observers, claimkeepers and administrative personnelof the Kosovo Property Agencyparticipated in first aid training,provided by KFOR.Sergeant Major Schmidt of themedical support element of theCOMKFOR conducted the training inPristina. Sergeant Major Schmidt isChief Nurse and Paramedic here in

Film City Medical centre. InGermany, the sergeant major is also ateacher and instructor for paramedicsand rescue assistants in the MedicalForces. Specialised training was offered andaccomplished to the KPA personnel.Topics such as heat injuries, biteinjuries, general measures withinjuries and special measures withemergency situations were taught anddemonstrated.Subsequent presentation and practicalexercises of the various types oftraining deepened the training,

enabling KPA personnel to aid peoplein dangerous situations. The training was demonstrated andpresented in a professional manner,utilising the most modern and currentmethods, in the Serbian, Albanian andEnglish languages.Topics covered were the prevention ofand course of action for animal bites,Lyme Disease, dog and cats, breathingproblems, allergies, burns, cutsscrapes and punctures, electric shock,head injuries, shock, sports injuries,and fainting.


[Health and Fitness]


[Inside KFOR]

Text by OF-3 Ihor Levchenko, Ukrainian ArmyPhotos by OF-2 Maxim Prauta, Ukrainian Army

On August 2, all Ukrainian paratroopers celebratedtheir professional holiday: Paratroopers Day.

In this day, Ukrainian Airborne forces - one of the best prepared andwell trained services in Ukrainian Army - gathered for a ceremony.

From the beginning of its creation, airborne forces took an active part inpeacekeeping operations of the Ukraine. During the last 15 years, Ukrainian

paratroopers were deployed in peacekeeping missions to the Balkans, inIraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ethiopia, Georgia andCongo.Also, the current Ukrainian Contingent of POLUKRBAT in Kosovo isrepresented by troops from 13 Single Airborne Battalion. The majority of thebattalion personnel already have the experience of peacekeeping operationsin Iraq, where they were deployed before, as well as other missions abroad.Early in the morning on August 2, 2007, soldiers from the Ukrainiancontingent stood in formation on the parade square near HQPOLUKRBAT in Camp Bondsteel. The official ceremony, dedicated to15th anniversary of Ukrainian Airborne forces, and medal parade was

opened by Ukrainian Contingent Commander/Deputy POLUKRBAT,Commander Lt. Col. Ievhen Chumachenko. In his speech to the


[Inside KFOR]

troops Lt. Col. Chumachenko thanked his soldiers for theirservice in Kosovo and the excellent representation ofUkrainian Armed Forces abroad.During a medal parade, all Ukrainian paratroopers wereawarded a NATO non-5 Article medal. The best soldiersalso were promoted to their next rank and were awardeddiplomas.After the official part of the ceremony, paratroopersorganized traditional military entertainment in Camp

cinema hall. Ukrainian soldiers showed their excellentskills in hand-to-hand fighting and cold steel using invery attractive way. All guests, presided by Brig. Gen.Earhart, MNTF E Commander, enjoyed this

entertainment very much. The MNTF E Commanderalso thanked Ukrainian soldiers for their support of SACE

and FOM in POLUKRBAT AOR.The celebration ended in the evening, when sun set, but themission in Kosovo for the Ukrainian paratroopers willcontinued until the middle of October. And, I'm sure, they

will pass their duties in the best way.

[Inside KFOR]


Text and photos by OR-7 Cheryl L. Toner

KFOR's Joint Implementation Commission met with theirSerbian counterparts August 9, 2007, in Rudare, Serbia, todiscuss issues along the Serbia-Kosovo administrativeborder line.

This is the 284th meeting between the two groups; however,it is the first Joint JIC Conference. As such, representativesfrom the task forces, as well as representatives from UNMIKpolice and EUPT border police, were on hand for the talks.

The chief of KFOR's JIC, Col. Harald Sveen, talked aboutKFOR's mission of providing a safe and secure environment,and said that "we have been very successful." To underscorethis, he talked about KFOR soldiers recently confiscating506 illegal weapons and more than 1,900 rounds ofammunition. "Aside from a few minor incidents, thesituation here is calm and stable", the colonel said.

Col. Miodrag Popovich said that while he is a member of theSerbian Armed Forces, everyone at the conferencerepresented the same team since they were at the same table."I'm glad that we can do this", he said. "I hope that this willimprove our co-operation, mutual trust and respect", he saidof a process that has already been praised as effective.

Once the conference began, a number of issues werediscussed, including conducting joint training exercisesalong the ABL. Colonel Popovich said this would be a goodidea as new KFOR troops rotate in. There have already beenthree such exercises and there is one in the works. Thesuggestion was also made to do exercises in inclementweather, as well as having to medivac someone out duringthe flurry of activity. Everyone agreed that training for theworst-case scenario would provide the best benefit.

One of the success stories from the co-operative engagementis the close-knit working relationship on the ABL."Synchronized patrols are not about fixed routes", saidColonel Popovich. He said that patrols are there to thwartcriminal involvement so, based upon up-to-date information,the patrols can adjust where they concentrate their efforts.

In the end, anyone who works together benefits fromeffective communication. As officials KFOR officials striveeveryday to improve communication on a day-to-day basis,the JIC is attempts to do the same. This was evident as thegroup became more animated and excited about ideas onhow to make the synchronized patrols more effective. "We'remaking a good procedure even better", said Colonel Sveen,who chaired his last JIC meeting as his time on this missionis almost done.

Also discussed during the conference were security and co-operation along the ABL, co-operation improvementsbetween UNMIK police and MUP, as well as UNMIK andEUPT current issues.

27

[Inside KFOR]


[Inside KFOR]


Some of you have heard of it, some of you have not, but all of you should know it. ACCI is Allied Command Counter Intelligence. ACCI is NATO's only assignedorganic counter intelligence unit. Their headquarters is located at SHAPE inMons, Belgium. ACCI deploys personnel to the Kosovo Detachment (KDET) indirect support to the COMKFOR. ACCI's mission is to detect, deter, and neutralizethe threat of terrorism, espionage, sabotage, and subversion directed against theKFOR family.

There are many countries and organizations that place a high priority on obtaininginformation about KFOR capabilities, intentions, and technology, both classifiedand unclassified. As a KFOR family member, you have access to this informationand technology and could be the target of information collection at anytime and inany location.

A couple of the methods that may beused to gather information are thedirect approach and elicitation.

The direct approach is a techniquewhere you are directly asked to giveinformation that a collector islooking for. The collector usuallywill offer money or something ofvalue in exchange for the

[Inside KFOR]


information. The collector could also be aggressive and usethreats or blackmail to force you to provide the informationneeded.

Elicitation is used to collect information without you knowingthat they are providing that information. This technique isused during normal conversation on a topic being discussed byyou and the collector. During the conversation you may beasked for certain details that you may think are just part of thetopic but realize later that maybe you should not have mentioned.Most times you will not remember providing the details.

If you feel that you are currently or may have been approached to provideinformation by someone who do not have a need to know KFOR information, youshould do the following: remain calm, do not commit yourself to anything, ask fortime to think over the request, remember details about the incident and do notdiscuss the incident with anyone other than ACCI personnel. As part of the KFORfamily, it is everyone's responsibility to protect KFOR, each other, and those we arehere to provide a safe and secure environment for.

ACCI is located in the J2X complex on Film City. They can be reached on KPN2260 or 2072; Commercial +389 2268 2260 or 2072; Mobile +377 44 503285 or503286.


[Inside KFOR]Text and photos by Capt. Mikko Autti, Finnish Army

The Finnish contingent has organized marching events sincethey arrived in Kosovo in 1999. The most traditional of theseevents is the Hot Day March, which is organized everysummer. First marched in 2001, the event is carried out twicea year with the aim of providing the experience to as manyKFOR soldiers as possible. The same march in February iscalled - for obvious reasons - the Cold Day March. The Hot/Cold Day Marches have always attracted wideattention and this year's Hot Day March in mid-Augustgathered participants from five nationalities. The march wasa unique experience for all participants, but it was also afestive occasion for the people in the villages through whichthe marchers passed. Countless amounts of children waved tothe soldiers and greeted them with cheers and applaud. Thelocals were met in response with tired, but friendly smiles. The teams consisted of five members and their well beingwas constantly supervised by the Finnish Medic platoon. Abig part of the appeal of the march is its nature as a two-dayevent. On the first day, participants trekked 35kilometres mainly through the impressivelandscapes of Drenica valley in MNTF C AOR.The marchers then spent the night in tents on the

outskirts of the Salthovici/Salihovii village in theLipovica/Lipovice municipality. Barbequing, recuperatingfrom the day's journey and spending the night on top of a hilloverlooking a dense forest was an unforgettable experiencefor all. What makes the Hot/Cold Day Marches so demanding is thefact that after a well-earned night of sleep, the marchers areonly half way through the ordeal! The 35 km trip, whichseemed easy enough the previous day is quite a differentexperience with sore feet, dehydration and cramping legsslowing down the pace. The journey back to the finish line atCamp Ville in Lipljan/Lipjan proved too demanding for someof the participants also this year. It was emphasized at the opening ceremony conducted by thecommander of the Finnish contingent that the march is not acompetition. All teams had a different approach towards theevent. Some may have considered it a competition that mustbe "won". Some took it as a good physical exercise throughbreath-taking terrain. However, most considered it as ademanding and rewarding experience since it is perhaps themost strenuous of all KFOR-related marching events. Thosewho thought this way probably achieved what they came tothe march for. They conquered the hardest foe in a marchingevent of such magnitude - themselves.

31

[Peacekeepers’ Profiles]


Name: Donald FergussonRank: LT (OF-2)Nationality: USHome unit: Joint Analysis Center, RAF Molesworth, UK Unit in KFOR: US National Intelligence Cell, DeputyCommanderAbout the mission: I have been in Kosovo since April2007 and have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of thedeployment. As the Deputy Commander of the USNIC Ihave been fortunate to work directly with my counterpartsin the other NICs and have been impressed with theprofessionalism and esprit-de-corps of the entire NICcommunity. From the DANCON March to the greatfriendships I have made, this has been the most rewardingdeployment of my career. Family reaction: Although reluctant to let me go, my wife

has been very supportive of my decision to deploy to Kosovo and she understands that this is a good mission. My son hasjust turned 2 years old and while he misses his Daddy, he is more concerned with playing ball and watching cartoons. Weare expecting the birth of my daughter in September. I miss my family and love them very much, and thank them for theirlove and support!Plans after mission: I return to JAC Molesworth in October and then we will transfer to Naval Air Station Atsugi, Japanin November where I will be stationed as the Carrier Air Wing Five Targeting Officer.

Name: Noel O' CallaghanRank: Regimental Sergeant Major Nationality: IrishHome Unit: 4th Field Artillery RegimentUnit in KFOR: 35th Irish Infantry Group, MNTF CAbout the mission: Although I have served on avariety of different overseas missions, it is great that Ihave learned new practices or approaches to problemsfrom my multi national colleagues in KFOR.Family reaction: My family understands that I haveto go overseas, but that does not stop them missing me.Plans after the mission: I hope to spend quality timewith my family and some time fishing on the lakes,close to my home.

Name: Ferenc KalcsóRank: OR-8Nationality: HungarianHome unit: 25 Klapka György Infantry BrigadeUnit in KFOR: HQ MNTF W/G3 TOCAbout the mission: It is great pleasure for me to participate in the KFORmission here in Kosovo during six months working for HQ MNTF W. This ismy second mission abroad first mission was in Cyprus in 2001. My militaryservice in Kosovo started three months ago. I am on duty in the tacticaloperation center as a Watchkeeper in close cooperation with Italian, Spanish andSlovenian comrades. I am happy because I can meet here not only well preparedcolleagues but can also make good friends, so I enjoy my job. One of myfavorite hobbies is cooking. My Hungarian mates acknowledge this skill ofmine, so I am responsible for making the gulash, paprika potatoes and otherHungarian specialities in our parties.Family reaction: I am single so my parents and my relatives are waiting for mereturn to Hungary. Taking the opportunity, I would like to say many thanks fortheir support which helps me to do my best.Plans for the future: After this six months I hope that I will have possibility toapply my KFOR experience in another NATO mission somewhere in the worldmay-be in Afghanistan or in Iraq.

Phot

o by

Com

bat

Cam

era

Phot

o by

Com

bat

Cam

era

TTea

mea

m

Mit

rM

itr o

vica

/Mit

rov

ica/

Mit

r ovi

cëov

icë

Chronicle 08

Documents

Transcript of Chronicle 08