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    Turkish army transfer of authority in Kosovo

    Turkish army transfer of authority in Kosovo

    Photo By Staff Sgt. Melissa Parrish | Turkish army Col. Omer Fauk Demircioglu, commander for the Joint Regional...... read more read more

    CAMP BONDSTEEL, KOSOVO

    04.14.2015

    Story by Sgt. Melissa Parrish 

    KFOR Regional Command East

    CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo - A large bright red Turkish flag hung above the stage as a company of Turkish soldiers sang the Turkish national anthem in unison. The Turkish soldiers gathered for the transfer of authority ceremony to say goodbye to their company commander.

    Turkish army Capt. Himmet Sevinc, Turkish Maneuver Company commander for Multinational Battle Group-East, handed over his command after a yearlong tour to Turkish army Capt. Hanifi Savas at the South Town Fitness Center at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, April 13.

    U.S. Army Col. Clint J. Baker, the commander of MNBG-E, was the guest speaker at the ceremony.

    “As you know, our longtime friend and comrade, Captain Himmet Sevinc, is relinquishing command,” said Baker as he spoke to the crowd. “Himmet, under your leadership, the Turkish Coy has proven itself to be an invaluable asset to the battle group and KFOR during your one-year tour and you have much to be proud of.”

    The main mission of the troops in MNBG-E is to provide a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement to the people of Kosovo. Sevinc and his troops conducted over 200 reconnaissance missions and patrols as part of Kosovo Forces to which contributed to the overall mission in Kosovo.

    Baker said the most valuable part of Sevinc’s year long tour was not only the work his soldiers accomplished but also the relationships he built.

    “The relationships you developed within the battle group were what really benefited everyone,” said Baker as he spoke to Sevinc. “In representing the entire battle group, you and your Coy were at the forefront in reestablishing a close working relationship with the Kosovo Border Patrol. I know I speak for everyone in the battle group when I say how proud we are of you and the soldiers under your command.”

    Turkish army Col. Omer Fauk Demircioglu, commander for the Joint Regional Detachment-South, spoke highly of Sevinc and also welcomed the new commander to the mission.

    “Capt. Sevinc’s energy and deep sense of duty has always gained my personal appreciation, may the future bring him continued success,” said Demircioglu. “Now it is time to begin a new period for the Turkish company. I am sure Savas will undoubtedly make further contributions to this company for higher levels of excellence. I wish you all the best.”

    The captains performed a ceremonious exchange of the company flag and Sevinc officially handed over his authority to the new commander. Savas ended the ceremony by taking his place beside his troops.

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 04.14.2015
    Date Posted: 04.14.2015 09:40
    Story ID: 159913
    Location: CAMP BONDSTEEL, ZZ

    Web Views: 278
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN