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VILNIUS, Lithuania- The U.S. military along with more than 20 other Nations took part in several events celebrating Lithuania’s 100th-year reestablishment of their military and the proclamation of their independence from the Russian Empire in Vilnius, Lithuania, Nov. 24, 2018.
The events began with the Lithuanian government hosting a meet and greet dinner for all their guest and culminated in a parade, which displayed some of the most advanced pieces of military weaponry the world has to offer.
“The Patriot missile system is known worldwide, which was proven today by the large number of citizens at the celebration that recognized the system and its capabilities,” said Sgt. 1st Class Thad Beckendorf, a Patriot master gunner for Bravo Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command.
Onlookers were treated to a host of different weapon platforms, including a U.S. Patriot Air Defense Missile launcher and were even given the opportunity to get close to the systems prior to the parade. Once the parade began, cheers rang out for these symbols of strength and peace.
“It is very important during these allied events to show that we, as U.S. Army Soldiers and Air Defenders, are here for our allies and will do what it takes…to show our support,” said U.S. Army Capt. Joseph Van Valkenburg, B BTY, 7th ADA REG, 10th AAMDC Commander.
Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite spoke at the parade and she expressed her gratitude for having so many countries join Lithuania for this momentous occasion. This was a sentiment shared by many of the leaders who were able to attend the different event throughout the week.
“Lithuania is a strong NATO partner in deterring aggression in Eastern Europe,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Todd Wasmund, the U.S. Army Europe’s Atlantic Resolve Mission Command Element Commander. “Our presence and participation symbolize our enduring commitment to our NATO Allies in Europe and to the interoperability and readiness to the armed forces to ensure continued security and independence in the region.”
| Date Taken: | 11.24.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 11.26.2018 03:49 |
| Story ID: | 301106 |
| Location: | VILNIUS, LT |
| Web Views: | 276 |
| Downloads: | 3 |
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