 I'm truly honored to be attending an event that showcases the alliances and partnerships the United States and our Army has in Southeast Europe. This first international training event since this country's accession into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization highlights this country's and the other participating nations' commitment to the Alliance. I think for me it was seeing the integration of the soldiers because you hear a lot in these written briefs but until you see them in in action see each step of these exercises come together the communications the soldiers on the ground the armor even the aircraft overhead you don't realize how complicated it is to put all of that together and then to execute it so flawlessly. As we continue to demonstrate our enduring and steadfast support to the NATO Alliance and European Defense our alliances and partnerships are strengthened with every international training exercise. We are sincerely grateful for this opportunity and we are stronger together.