Pumpkin Carving at the Women's and Children's Center

US Servicemembers and Multi-National Partners from Germany and Greece came out to the Pristina Women's and Children's Center celebrate Halloween.  Though the pumpkins were a little on the pale side, Servicemembers and children alike were elbow deep in creating Jack-o-Lanterns.  In addition there was plenty of candy apples, sugar laden treats, and Mt. Dew readily available to keep all of the ghosts and goblins haunting and howling well into the night.  Though Halloween is typically not celebrated in Kosovo, it was great opportunity for NATO troops to visit and remain engaged with the center.

Changing of the Guard

  The US Balkans National Support Element changed Commanders today. It was ceremoniously conducted by the passing of the colors, a time honored tradition deeply rooted in military history dating back to the reign of Frederick the Great of Prussia. At that time, organizational flags were developed with color arrangements and symbols unique to each particular unit. To this flag and its commander, the service members of the unit would dedicate their loyalty and trust.  When a change of command was to take place, the flag was passed to the individual assuming the command. This gesture was accomplished in front of the unit so that all could see and witness their new leader assuming his dutiful position. He who held the flag also held the service member’s allegiance. This symbolic tradition has survived throughout military history.  LTC Win Burkett passed the colors onto LTC Mike Smith.

  Likewise, 1SG Dan Morgan passed the NCO sword onto the incoming Senior Enlisted Leader, CSM Tim Bushee.  The change of responsibility ceremony is also steeped in military traditions and serves the dual function of rendering honors to the departing Command Sergeant Major and providing official recognition of the transfer of authority as Senior Enlisted Leader of the Balkans National Support Element  to the incoming Command Sergeant Major.  The symbol of this position is the NCO sword.