1st CAB and eFP Battle Group Latvia Strengthening Partnerships

Photo By Maj. Matthew St Clair | Soldiers from eight different nations came together on a Saturday in Latvia to compare equipment, review lessons learned from a recent exercise, and build comradery. This event came about after the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia, or eFP BG Latvia, spent the last several weeks in the field conducting multi-lateral combat training.  

ADAZI, LATVIA

08.26.2019

Story by Capt. Matthew St Clair 

19th Public Affairs Detachment, 1st Infantry Division

Adazi, Latvia – Soldiers from eight different nations came together on a Saturday in Latvia to compare equipment, review lessons learned from a recent exercise, and build comradery. This event came about after the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia, or eFP BG Latvia, spent the last several weeks in the field conducting multi-lateral combat training.

The eFP BG Latvia is one of four defensive, multinational NATO coalitions positioned in the Baltics to deter aggression and promote peace and security throughout the region. Although the U.S. Army is not officially a part of this Battle Group, Task Force Nightmare North of 3-1 Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, is stationed at the nearby Latvian Air Base, Lielvarde, and often will provide support and train with the Battle Group.

Over the last few weeks, TF Nightmare North provided aerial support to the NATO Battle Group’s exercise, Reaper Raider. The exercise included training in air assault operations, personnel recovery operations, and expeditionary deployment. “The exercise was a great opportunity to train together as NATO allies and partners here in Latvia,” said Cpt. James Castan, Alpha Company Commander, 3-1 AHB, 1st CAB, 1st ID. “Not only do exercises like these help build our readiness, but they allow us to better communicate, understand, and plan with our NATO counterparts.”

A few days after the exercise concluded, the NATO Battle Group set up static displays so that all participating soldiers could experience the different nations’ weapon systems, vehicles and equipment first hand.

Next, the U.S. Army and Battle Group leaders met to discuss lessons learned, best practices, and how to get better for the next exercises. After any event or exercise, units meet together to discuss what went well, and what needs improvement for future operations. “The team up here did well and I'm proud of all the work they accomplished,” said Castan. "We look forward to the next time to improve with our NATO partners."

The evening concluded with a social hosted by the leadership of the eFP BG Latvia. Soldiers from all participating nations enjoyed table tennis, billiards, video games, and even Monopoly together. A strong sense of comradery was definitely in the air amongst these allied brothers and sisters in arms as they relaxed and bonded throughout the evening.

Task Force Nightmare North, 3-1 Assault Helicopter Battalion is currently on a rotation in Europe as part of the 1st Combat Aviation Brigade during their Atlantic Resolve mission. The unit will redeploy back to Fort Riley, KS within the next few months and will be replaced by the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade from Savannah, GA.

• Date Taken: 08.26.2019
• Date Posted: 08.26.2019 10:05
• Story ID: 337411
• Location: ADAZI, LV