By Sgt. Jesica Geffre
VITINA, Kosovo -- Members of Multi-national Battle Group East's Liaison and Monitoring Team recently briefed the commander of all Kosovo Forces, Lt. Gen. Markus Bentler of the German army, on the way they conduct business in their area of responsibility.
For Bentler, it was a chance to get out in to the communities of Kosovo and to get a sense from the LMTs what issues citizens and civic leaders are dealing with.
1st Lt. Cory Schumacher of Fargo, N.D., was tapped to lead the presentation to Bentler at the LMT office in downtown Vitina/Viti.
"It was an honor to have the KFOR commander in our offices to hear firsthand what we are experiencing on the streets every day," Schumacher said. "He showed great interest and concern for the people of this region and all of Kosovo. By being here, in person, the commander demonstrated his support for the work we do."
The presentation was a status update on the current situation in that particular sector of Kosovo. Bentler asked the LMT leaders specific questions on events in the community and how they are responding to various questions they receive from the local populations in regard to KFOR, the local government and challenges they are facing.
Staff Sgt. Matt Mitzel, also of Fargo, N.D., contributed to the brief by answering questions and clarifying points regarding his area of responsibility.
"It was clear by his visit that the work of the LMTs is something the KFOR commander places great importance on as a means to gauge concerns and facilitate solutions so that everyone in Kosovo can benefit," Mitzel said.
Bentler presented Schumacher with a coin to show his appreciation for the work being done by the liaison monitoring teams.
"The work of LMTs is more important now than ever during these changing times and adjustments in KFOR's force structure," said Brig. Gen. Al Dohrmann, MNBG-E commanders. "The LMTs are the face of our Battle Group for the citizens in Kosovo and they are the backbone of our efforts to build even stronger relationships with the people and institutions in Kosovo which serve and protect them."
Multi-National Battle Group - East is a U.S- led Battle Group commanded by Brig. Gen. Al Dohrmann. This Battle Group is comprised of nearly 2,200 Soldiers, including Task Force Hellas and Task Force Polish/Ukraine. The charter mission of MNTF-E is maintaining a Safe and Secure Environment and providing Freedom of Movement for the people in Kosovo.