The ceremony for the departure of the 280th Maneuver Battalion to Afghanistan was organized at Foctani, on Friday, May 29.The event was attended by the families of the soldiers, by State Secretary Aurel Ionel Lascu, by the chief of Land Forces Staff, Major General Dan Ghica-Radu, as well as representatives of the local authorities.

State Secretary Aurel Ionel Lascu held a speech that emphasized the risks and difficulties in this TO and cautioned the troops to be on constant alert, to observe the SOPs and remember the lessons learned. Mr. Lascu said that providing the necessary combat and protection equipment is a priority for the Ministry of National Defence, even now at this time of economic crisis.

The military ceremony included playing the national anthem, a religious service, a solemn roll call, and a march performed by troops of the 280th Maneuver Battalion.

In mid-June, the battalion under the command of LTC Iuri Tanase will start departing for Afghanistan. An American company will be under its operational command as well.

The Romanian troops will take over the responsibilities of the 21st 'Viperele Negre' Mountain Troops Battalion, consisting in securing the area of responsibility, joint operations with Afghan troops, humanitarian assistance, patroling, convoy and VIP escort missions.

MoND Press Office