KABUL, Afghanistan -- A newly established NATO command was activated today at Camp Eggers in Kabul, as the Combined Security Transition Command —Afghanistan merged with the new NATO Training Mission — Afghanistan to create a unified command for the training of the Security Forces in Afghanistan.
This multi-nation partnership will foster new and existing relationships and build on the already expanding task of training and mentoring the Afghan National Security Forces in preparation for the future security and sustainment of Afghanistan.
"Our mission is about teaming with Afghans to build a bright, dynamic future for this sovereign nation. As the NTM-A/CSTC-A mission has evolved, so has the mindset governing our outlook and perspective," said Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell, IV, the new commander of NTM-A and CSTC-A. "This new mindset, a mindset that challenges us to focus on the people of Afghanistan, requires us to be agile, adaptive, culturally respectful, and innovative. With this mission, and this new mindset, the path to success for NTM-A/CSTC-A lies with 3 T's; teaming, transparency, and transition."
Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell, IV, the new commander of NTM-A, intends to continue focusing coalition forces efforts on Afghanistan's sustainability as a free and open society.
Afghan Minister of Defense H.E. Minister Wardak, Afghan Minister of the Interior H.E. Minister Atmar, International Security Assistance Force, Commanding General Gen. Stanley McChrystal, and more than 400 Coalition Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Department of Defense civilian employees and contractors, and partner nation representatives attended the activation and change-of-command ceremony.
The former commander, Maj. Gen. Richard P. Formica, applauded previous successes while looking to the future with a sense of optimism and pride with the establishment of NTM-A.
"It has been my honor and privilege to serve here in Afghanistan," said Formica. "Those of us who serve here recognize the strategic importance of this mission and we welcome the opportunity to contribute to brining stability and security to the people of Afghanistan."
Preceding the activation of NTM-A, an official change-of-command ceremony was held at Camp Eggers where Lt. Gen. Caldwell assumed authority from Maj. Gen. Formica.