“Eagle-8” peacekeeping contingent returns home

: Published: Wednesday, 27 August 2014 12:40

At the Special Forces Battalion, in Zall-Herr, it was held the welcome ceremony of the “Eagle-8” contingent, who served in the peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan. At the ceremony attended the Minister of Defence, Mrs. Mimi Kodheli, the Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces, Major General Jeronim Bazo, the U.S Ambassador, Mr. Alexander Arvizu, and many other guests. In her speech, Defence Minister Mrs. Mimi Kodheli welcomed home the peacekeepers on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and all Albanians. “Your 8th combat mission, where you successfully served for a period of 6 months in the Kandahar region, concluded our engagement with combat forces in the ISAF mission, and for this, we all are grateful to you. The operation area of “Eagle-8” is regarded as the stronghold of terrorist activities in southern Afghanistan, where the Taliban forces have always been present and active.”

In addition, Minister Kodheli said that since 2010, when the Special Forces Battalion departed for the first time in combat mission “Eagle-1”, as part of the U.S military forces and up to now, your troops have made precious contribution to the fight against terrorism and establishing peace and stability in the hottest areas. “In this context, I would like to thank the United States for supporting this mission.” Minister Kodheli underlined that Albania will continue to stay in Afghanistan, alongside the allies, always contributing selflessly and with professionalism.

At the end of her speech, Minister Kodheli focused at Captain Feti Vogli, who lost his life in the line of duty in the peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan. “I would like to recall together with you, your brother, friend, comrade, Captain Feti Vogli. You find in him a good example for your career and life.”

The Ambassador of the United States, in Tirana, Mr. Alexander Arvizu noted that USA appreciates your contribution and sacrifice. We also appreciate the military and civilian leadership that are leading with wisdom in close cooperation with the United States and other allies.
At the end of the activity, the Minister of Defence, Mrs. Mimi Kodheli placed a bouquet of flowers at the bust of Martyr of Homeland, Captain Feti Vogli.