Germany Takes Command of NATO Group
NATO Press Release
Yesterday, 24 January 2012, after a successful year as Commander of NATO’s Standing Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1) Commodore Ben Bekkering (Royal Netherlands Navy) handed over command of the Group to Rear Admiral Georg von Maltzan (German Navy).
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Rear Admiral Georg W. Von. Maltzan
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The ceremony was conducted on board HNLMS Rotterdam, under the auspices of Rear Admiral Hank Ort, Chief of Staff Maritime Command Northwood on behalf of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe.
During the ceremony, Rear Admiral Ort highlighted the importance of NATO’s maritime forces,
“The strength of NATO’s maritime forces lies in their ability to act quickly whenever and wherever they are directed. This provides opportunities for nations’ navies to work together with other NATO nations and international partners which multiplies the Alliance’s maritime strength now and for years to come.”
Under Cdre Bekkering’s command, SNMG1 contributed to containing pirate activity close to the Somali shore in cooperation with other international counter piracy task forces. This led to a significant reduction of ships and crews held for ransom off the coast of Somalia. The NATO task force also conducted numerous engagements with local authorities and fishermen in order to create mutual understanding and cooperation where possible. Confidence amongst the population was enhanced by the provision of medical assistance by the task force’s medical team.
Rear Admiral von Maltzan (right) is looking forward to the challenges ahead. One of the tasks he will take on is Operation ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR. The force will be operating in the Mediterranean Sea, which is of strategic interest to the Alliance.
Media Inquiries only to: Public Affairs Officer +44 (0)1923 956763. Email: publicaffairs@mc.nato.int Facebook: operationoceanshield
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