New rotation of Mongolian Soldiers transfer authority in Kabul

CAMP EGGERS, Afghanistan – A new rotation of about 200 soldiers from the Mongolian Expeditionary Task Force III transferred authority Oct. 15 from the previous contingent on Mongolian forces serving in Kabul, Afghanistan, during a change-of-command ceremony at Camp Eggers.

As a NATO and International Security Assistance Force coalition partner, Mongolia provides six-month rotations of soldiers in support of security operations for U.S. and coalition installations in the capital region for Task Force Rushmore: Kabul Base Cluster Installation Command.

“I want to thank the leadership and Soldiers of METF II who have worked so hard, and given so much to Camp Eggers and Afghanistan,” said Brig. Gen. Ted Johnson, commander Task Force Rushmore, during the ceremony. “I have every confidence in a seamless transition of military operations from METF II to METF III, and we will build on the partnership between the international military and the Afghan National Security Forces, who are the future of the security in Afghanistan.”

The METF also mentors and trains Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) at the Kabul Military Training Center and Darulaman Infantry School, as a part of NATO Training Mission–Afghanistan and Combined Security Transition Command–Afghanistan.

“The opportunity for METF III to assume responsibility for providing security to Camp Eggers has made it possible for NTM-A/CSTC-A to operate at such a high level,” said Johnson. “I know all present here today are committed to building on this legacy and taking it forward in the footsteps of your predecessors.”

The METF specializes in the training of Soviet-style artillery, mortars and rocket weapon systems. The Mongolians also have a small team of aviation maintenance and repair technicians who mentor ANSF counterparts.

“We are ready to serve all of Camp Eggers and all of Afghanistan,” said Lt. Col. Sodov, incoming-commander METF III, while addressing his troops.

“Building on the outstanding legacy put forth by prior rotations of the METF, I am convinced that with the efforts of the Mongolian government, ISAF and the brave and steadfast people of Afghanistan we will accomplish our goals,” said Johnson.

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