RUDARE, Kosovo - Soldiers from Multi-national Battle Group East, comprised primarily of Army National Guard members, successfully led a roadblock removal operation on the outskirts of this small northern Kosovo town to improve freedom of movement for Kosovo residents.
The roadway, the main artery between the southern portion of Rudare and the nearby city of Mitrovica, was one of nine roadblocks that Kosovo Force officials determined prevented freedom of movement in the region and sought to remove them.
"The operation was a total success, from the conception and planning of the operation to the execution on the ground by the Soldiers in this battle group," said Army Col. Jeffrey Liethen, commander of MNBG-E and the Wisconsin Army National Guard's 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. "I couldn't be prouder of the men and women who performed their duties so admirably."
The operation was conducted in the early morning hours, while most residents of the town were leaving for work. Soldiers from the German and U.S. contingents quickly established vehicle control points and a security perimeter so the Portuguese-led KFOR Tactical Maneuver Battalion could bring in the heavy equipment required to remove the substantial concrete, gravel and debris barrier.
Soldiers from other MNBG-E contingents arrived in the subsequent hours to provide follow-on security to the area.
U.S. forces on the ground were comprised primarily of Soldiers from the Georgia Army National Guard's 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment. The unit's headquarters element developed the course of action used in the operation.
The operation increased in complexity as it involved military members from more than eight different nations executing the mission plan in a coordinated manner from several camps located throughout Kosovo.
Detailed planning and close coordination among all participants ensured the successful removal of the roadblock, said Army Lt. Col. Joseph Lynch, commander of 3rd Sqdrn., 108th Cav.
"Without the close coordination and cooperation of all nations involved, we could not have accomplished what we did," Lynch said. "We are extremely pleased that all the multi-national units in this operation performed their missions with professionalism and excellence. Furthermore, I continue to be impressed by the level of dedication demonstrated by all the contributing nations."