Two weeks ago the airmobile brigades 1 infantrybatallion held an exercise in the area of the Twente airfield.
This airfield is not in use anymore by the airforce and therefore provides an ideal base for actions.
Its loctaed near the town of Enschede in the north-east of the country.
Purpose of the exercise: 11 batallion training its capabilities before the big exercise in Germany coming june.
That exercise will be the final test where the bn can show its ready for action.
Story behind the exercise.
Redland and Whiteland are neighboring countries.
Whiteland has a large group of Redlanders living in the country, they are not happy because they were discriminated and tensiones rose in the country.
Severa groups of Redlanders stole arms and formed terrorist groups many Redlanders deserted the army of Whiteland.
Violence ruled the streets.
The UN decided to react and sent the Dutch 11 batallion to restore peace.
Action:
Airborne infantry landed on the field with helicopters quickley taking all important and strategic positions.
After that more soldiers were flown in by Hercules and helicopter.
With the airbase firmly in their hands the bn could start with clearing up the area.
Patrols were sent out and terrorist groups were hunted down.
Several engagements followed.
With the airfield cleared the rest of the units poored in, 5 large convoys drove to the field.
Each convoy was under protection of a reserve company, mine.
It was very cold and I can assure you driving with your body exposed to the cold on top of the cabine of a truck isnt funny.
You do see a lot of nice women waving at you though:)
After arriving at the field we quickley took over the security of the base. Guarding the fence and patrolling the area.
Using the oilstain method ( developed by a Dutch general in the 20th century, Dutch indies) the soldiers cleaned up more and more areas of suspicious elements.
Than the heart and mind campaign followed.
Citizens in the area received help, the men painted streetfurniture, repaired playing attributes for children, made visits at churches and were visible in the streets. Medics provided first aid for people in need. Food and water was distributed.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/p480x480/528775_622578447757847_2131549376_n.jpgIn total the exercise last for 3 weeks.
I will add pictures when they become avalailable.
