Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

Dongmyeong unit, carrying out a PKO(Peacekeeping operation) mission in Lebanon, had a combined training with a reserve corps, UNIFIL command, the upper level unit, from July 8 to 11.

The reserve corps, UNIFIL command, is a company-sized unit mobilized with an armored vehicle by French soldiers and plays a similar role to our rapid reaction force.

Operating a similar mission to that QRT(Quick Reaction Team) and BMR(Battalion Mobile Reserve), the early action unit, are carrying out, Dongmyeong unit has been participating in the combined training every six months.

The training was to improve mutual understanding between the Korean and French militaries for immediate and smooth combined operation when a situation occurs as well as to enhance friendship among unit members.

They stood patrol guard at night together to protect the post, and had some time to learn each other's different weapons and equipment through combined firing and combined EOD(explosive ordnance disposal) patrol.

Moreover, Korean soldiers introduced our history and culture to the French and promoted togetherness and friendship through combined exercises and Taekwondo education.

“The Korean unit consists of special forces so their fighting strength is better than any other unit within UNIFIL, showing perfect teamwork. It was a precious experience in which I could learn many things with them,” said First Lieutenant Dutt, platoon commander of the French Army, who participated in the training.

By Chul-Hwan, Kim < droid001@dema.mil.kr >

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