Photo By Staff Sgt. Rose Di Trolio | U.S. Army Sgt. Cade England, a M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS)...... read more read more
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NARVA, Estonia — U.S. Army soldiers from Task Force Voit joined Estonian Armed Forces and NATO allies participating in the Estonian War of Independence ceasefire remembrance ceremony on Jan. 3, 2025.
U.S. Army Soldiers of Task Force Voit participated in a ceremony in remembrance of the Estonian War of Independence with the signing of the Treaty of Tartu on Jan. 2, 1920. The war began in 1918 following the collapse of the Russian Empire, when newly independent Estonia was invaded by Russian forces. The town of Narva played a pivotal role as one of the first targets of the conflict.
The ceremony attracted Estonians from all over, as citizens celebrated with their nation’s flag. Soldiers with Task Force Voit joined their NATO counterparts with the display. The snowy day started with Task Force Voit convoying into the parade square, setting up a multitude of motorized equipment. The U.S. static displays included two M142 HIMARS, one Humvee from the firing platoon, one MRAP All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) from the military police element, military personnel and one contact maintenance truck (CMT) from the 583rd Forward Support Company while keeping unclassified integrity. The ceremony itself had the Estonian President and other notable leaders addressing Narva’s mass formations and citizens. The ceremony concluded with NATO militaries marching around the parade square, showing their respect and devotion to Estonian leadership and its people.
“We brought the HIMARS out here to show to the people of Narva and to build relations with the Estonian people,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Jacob Moriarity, a M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) section chief assigned to Able Battery, 3rd Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment, 18th Field Artillery Brigade, Task Force Voit. “I think it is important for the U.S. to be in countries like this because this is kind of the end-state, yes we are ready to fight wars, but it is missions like this that keep wars from happening.”
The ceremony commemorates the Treaty of Tartu, a milestone for Estonia that secured its sovereignty, established borders, and affirmed its independence on the global stage. Since joining NATO in 2004, Estonia has its partnerships with allies, including the United States.
U.S. soldiers work closely with the Estonian Armed Forces, sharing critical defense strategies and providing invaluable training and military readiness support. The presence of U.S. troops in the region serves as a cornerstone of NATO’s commitment to the security architecture of the Baltic region.
The static displays at the parade square, showcased various allied military vehicles, equipment, and personnel. For many Estonians, the symbolism of the historical event reflects the strength of their ancestors and the enduring peace achieved through diplomacy and resolve. In a time when security and sovereignty continue to be of prevailing importance, the anniversary of the Treaty of Tartu serves as a reminder of the power through military effort and peaceful negotiation in securing the future of a nation.
“It is important that we are here as American soldiers to support foreign relations and to live up to the Task Force Voit mission, which is to assure, deter and reinforce,” said U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Micheal Straight, the tasking officer in charge assigned to Able Battery, 3rd Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment, 18th Field Artillery Brigade. “Participating in events like this is important as we work together with our NATO allies, support Estonia and celebrate sovereignty.”
The exhibition presented to citizens, locals and visitors granted a deeper impact on this crucial chapter of Estonia’s journey to independence. The citizens of Narva left the event with a general understanding of the capabilities of the M142 HIMARS, which facilitated better cohesion and trust with the United States, Estonia and NATO allies.
| Date Taken: | 01.06.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 01.07.2025 09:07 |
| Story ID: | 488704 |
| Location: | NARVA, EE |
| Web Views: | 133 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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