Overseas deployment training grows skills of U.S. and Jordanian armed forces

Photo By Lt. Col. Janet Herrick | Col. Jeffrey Dickerson (right), brigade commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Roy Marchert (left) of the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade present Brig. Gen. Nayee Al Ramadeneh, Jordanian Armed Forces Headquarters staff officer a token of their appreciation during closing ceremonies of exercise Eager Light from March 8-12 in Zarqa, Jordan. The exercise aims to strengthen military relationships and an understanding of each other’s forces.  

ZARQA, JORDAN

03.18.2015

Story by Maj. Janet Herrick 

U.S. Army Central   

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. – The Georgia Army National Guard’s 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade participated in U.S. Army Central’s Eager Light in Jordan, Mar 8-12.

Eager Light is an annual bilateral command post exercise focused on building interoperability and strengthening military relationships between the United States and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

560th BfSB leaders began their deployment training with the Jordanian Armed Forces in October 2014. The training focused on planning concepts and a review of the U.S. Army Military Decision Making Process.

“Training with the JAF brigade made our staff hone their skills at MDMP,” said Lt. Col. Chris Corley, 560th BfSB executive officer. He added, their goal was to show the Jordanians a way and share procedures with the JAF’s 12th Brigade.

The 560th BfSB staff had the opportunity to grow and refine capabilities across a diverse spectrum as U.S. and Jordanian staff officers paired up for training. Although the brigade’s primary mission is reconnaissance, surveillance, and intelligence, the 560th BfSB shared their staff expertise in other areas to include infantry, artillery, logistics, chemical and communications.

Corley added, gaining an understanding of cultural differences during the planning conferences and exercise was vital to the success of the event.

“During the rehearsals, our JAF partners appreciated the mentorship, incorporated advice, and were able to paint a better picture as they briefed their order to junior leaders,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Bryan Bolings, surveillance and security officer.

560th BfSB leaders also partnered with three battalions of the JAF’s 12th Brigade as they set up operations centers for exercise Eager Light. Leaders shared their military experience with each other as they looked at best practices for staff operations.

“The Jordanian Armed Forces are a strong U.S. ally,” said Bolings. “We also gleamed from their experience; they understand the enemy better than we do.”

560th BfSB and JAF leaders reflected on lessons learned and achievements during an after action review. The exercise concluded with a closing ceremony where leaders highlighted the dedication and competence of U.S. and JAF soldiers during the exercise.

Eager Light highlighted the longstanding partnership and enduring friendship between U.S. and Jordanian forces. The exercise provided an opportunity to build partner capacity and enhance readiness.

• Date Taken: 03.18.2015
• Date Posted: 03.23.2015 15:20
• Story ID: 157806
• Location: ZARQA, JO