Prepare for Rotation! Rotation!

Besides the preparation for the rotation and its execution, the personnel continuously performed their daily tasks and provided in-theatre training for the newcomer soldiers. The HDF National Support Element was preparing for the handover-takeover process by putting the warehouse stock in order, checking registries and drawing up inventories. For the contingent, the medal parade held on May 10 was a highlight of this period, also attended by Brig.-Gen. Craig Timberlake, Deputy Commander, ISAF Regional Command North (RC-N).

In the second half of May – concurrent with the rotation of the National Support Element (NSE) – the Military Advisory Team (MAT), the Logistic Mentor Team (LMT), the Mi–17 Air Advisory Team (AAT) and the soldiers serving in individual positions were also rotated. The newcomers occupied their positions, whereas the homecoming soldiers shared the lessons learned.

In closing the rotation period, on June 1, in Mazar-e Sharif, the Military Advisory Team organized a central transfer of authority (TOA) ceremony for all homecoming personnel, and the Medal Parade of the Military Advisory Team. The event was attended by all leaders of the ISAF Regional Command–North (RC-N), headed by Maj.-Gen. Bernd Schütt, Commander, and by the command groups of Afghan military organizations mentored by the Military Advisory Team.

During the ceremony, the Senior National Representative’s responsibilities were transferred and the change of command took place in the National Support Element–Afghanistan and in the Military Advisory Team.