The 126th Cavalry Regiment of the Michigan Army National Guard sent its unmanned aerial vehicle platoon to Latvia on May 7, information provided by “Sargs.lv” indicates.
The unit, lead by Captain Adam Wurth, will remain in Latvia for two months in order to train the U.S. and Latvian soldiers in unmanned flights.
“We look forward to training together with the Latvian National Armed Forces soldiers and to improve cooperation in piloting unmanned aircraft,” Sergeant Richard Ochoa indicated.
Escorting the Michigan soldiers to Latvia, Major General Gregory Vadnais said he admires the ability of the National Guard soldiers to mobilize and prepare for duty in Latvia. He also emphasized the importance of support provided by the National Guard soldiers’ families.
The cooperation between the Michigan National Guard and the Latvian National Armed Forces has continued for 22 years, its aim is to share information, collective training in using the latest equipment and improve strategic capabilities.
Vadnais stressed the long-time cooperation between Michigan and Latvia. “We have rejoiced at joint achievements and mourned over lost soldiers - since 2011, 21 soldiers from Michigan and four soldiers from Latvia have died in international operations,” Vadnais said, adding that this is another chance for Americans and Latvians to improve their interoperability and capabilities.
As reported, the U.S. Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, based in Europe, in April sent a company to Latvia to participate in military training until the end of this year.
Source: Latviannews.lv - leta.lv
http://www.latviannews.lv/news/5080/