NATO training command officially activated in Kabul

AFGHANISTAN

11.21.2009

Courtesy Story

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

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NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan, a new NATO command, was activated Nov. 21 at Camp Eggers in Kabul, and then merged with the Combined Security Transition Command —Afghanistan to create a unified command to train the Afghan national security forces.

This multi-nation partnership will foster new and existing relationships and build on the already expanding task of training and mentoring the Afghan national security forces in preparation for the future security and sustainment of Afghanistan.

"Our mission is about teaming with Afghans to build a bright, dynamic future for this sovereign nation. As the NTM-A/CSTC-A mission has evolved, so has the mindset governing our outlook and perspective," said Army Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell, IV, the new commander of NTM-A and CSTC-A. "This new mindset, a mindset that challenges us to focus on the people of Afghanistan, requires us to be agile, adaptive, culturally respectful, and innovative. With this mission, and this new mindset, the path to success for NTM-A/CSTC-A lies with 3 T's; teaming, transparency, and transition."

Caldwell went further to explain the 3 T's. Teaming is representative of the necessity to sustain and build new friendships and professional relations with NATO allies and partners, the citizens of Afghanistan and ANSF. Transparency includes clear and open lines of communication within partnerships and the international community.

Lastly, Caldwell explained transition as "a mature, prosperous relationship in the global community predicated on respect, peace, and an enduring partnership."

Afghan Minister of Defense, H.E. Abdul Rahim Wardak, Afghan Minister of the Interior H.E. Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Gen. Stanley McChrystal, commander, International Security Assistance Force, commander, U.S. Forces Afghanistan, and more than 400 Coalition Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Department of Defense civilian employees and contractors, and partner nation representatives attended the activation and change-of-command ceremony.

McChrystal, discussed the significance of the establishment of NTM-A, and the command's importance as an institutional and developmental training tool for the Afghan National Security Forces.

"The work of this command is the foundation of ISAF's mission," said McChrystal. "Unlike other military forces across the centuries, we are not here to conquer Afghanistan, but to help it stand on its own."

Atmar, promised the continuance of professionalism and dedication to Caldwell.

"Let me assure you, Gen. Caldwell, that you will have very strong and committed friends, brothers and sisters on your side," said Atmar. "We will do everything to achieve this noble cause for the growth of ANSF and the land they defend and protect."

The former commander, Maj. Gen. Richard P. Formica, applauded previous successes while looking to the future with a sense of optimism and pride with the establishment of NTM-A. General Formica also took a moment to personally recognize and congratulate the leaders of Afghanistan.

"It has been my honor and privilege to serve here in Afghanistan, said Formica. Those of us who serve here recognize the strategic importance of this mission and we welcome the opportunity to contribute to bringing stability and security to the people of Afghanistan. The people of Afghanistan will one day know the fruits of peace, prosperity, stability and security. And when they do, it will largely be the results of your determined efforts."

Wardak extended his gratitude and appreciation for the accomplishments of Formica.

"I'm sure he will be welcome once again to come with his lady and to see this Phoenix, my beloved Afghanistan, that has risen from the ashes of destruction, tyranny and war and got its full wings and is flying up and up over the snow covered peaks of the mountain sky," he said.

Preceding the activation of NTM-A, an official change-of-command ceremony was held at Camp Eggers where Caldwell assumed command from Formica.