PRISTINA, KOSOVO - The National Guard's support of NATO peacekeeping operations in the southeastern Europe is making an important contribution in helping the citizens of Kosovo, the chief of the National Guard Bureau said here Feb. 4.
Air Force Gen. Craig R. McKinley visited Missouri Army National Guard Soldiers deployed in support of Multi-national Task Force (MNTF) East at Camp Bondsteel after walking the streets of downtown Pristina, the capital city.
"I can't tell you how impressed I was walking through those streets and seeing the faces of the men and women of Kosovo, who appreciate what you are doing here," said McKinley in a town hall meeting with the Soldiers.
American forces have conducted peacekeeping operations in Kosovo since Operation Allied Force in 1999.
Nearly one year ago, the U.S. and other European nations formally recognized Kosovo as an independent nation.
McKinley walked a few miles in a presence patrol with Missouri military policemen. He was greeted by Kosovars as he passed markets, shops and schools.
"It's a great thing when our leaders come out here to talk to the Soldiers," said Capt. Shannon Dean Holiday, commander for MNTF Thunder Bravo battery.
Holiday, who is deployed from Bernard, Mo., said the Soldiers who make up the American task force serve nine-month deployments. Their missions are to ensure a safe and secure environment and assist in a transition to civil authority.
Missouri's Soldiers patrol one of the more populated areas in Kosovo. Holiday said they have a great relationship with the Kosovo police forces, which are growing.
"We come from so many walks of life back home, whether you are in education or law enforcement, we can directly relate to some of the same problems they are dealing with," he said. "That's one of the great things the Guard brings here."
The Missouri Guard assumed command of MNTF in November 2007. They will hand the mission over to the California Guard in a few months.