BACK TO SCHOOL! - SHAPE Community Life - SHAPE2DAY
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
SHAPE Community Life August 2021
BACK TO SCHOOL!
EDITOR’s Letter
Dear Shapians,
It must be quite challenging for a writer to start a new project, novel, or
book when its predecessor has been a famous worldwide bestseller. The same
goes for a top sports star, such as the case of Simone Biles in the Olympics.
The pressure of success could lead to a certain blockage as the ideas popping
up might make you feel uncertain, not reassuring you that the coming ones
would be as bright as the previous.
Unconsciously self-sabotaging our chances of success happens more often
than we think. It is called fear of failure. Ways to combat it include: embrace
the grey (not only black and white), don’t bottle it up, and most importantly,
get inspiration from anywhere you can. Take advantage of this last summer
month and write your own book with no fear, brightening your days with
plenty of positive vibes and new experiences.
María José Tezanos Bustamante
Office of Communication & Community Affairs (OCCA)
Base Support Group
Officer-in-Charge
María José Tezanos Bustamante (NIC)
065/44.2221
maria.tezanos@shape.nato.int
Asst. Office of Communication & Community Affairs
Mar Domínguez Martínez (ESP-Civ)
065/44.2009
mar.martinez@shape.nato.int
SHAPE Community Life (SCL) is an authorized unofficial magazine, SHAPE Internship Programme: Office of Communication &
published monthly by Base Support Group (BSG). The views Community Affairs
expressed in SCL are the sole responsibility of the authors. María Ramírez Clemente (ESP-Civ)
065/44.2069
Acceptance of material does not guarantee publication.
maria.clemente@shape.nato.int
The Officer-in-Charge (OIC) reserves the right to refuse a Web Asst. Office of Communication & Community Affairs
submission and the right to edit or shorten any material or article Lorena Agruña Martínez (ESP-Civ)
lorena.agrunamartinez@shape.nato.int
submitted. No liability is accepted for the validity of articles,
announcements or advertising appearing in this magazine. Articles Social Media/Office of Communication & Community Affairs
Alba D’Alcamo (SMD)
and photos must acknowledge all sources used, as the OIC cannot alba.d’alcamo@shape.nato.int
be held responsible for breaches of copyright. SCL cannot accept Guest Columnist
responsibility for errors or omissions which may occur during Mike Adubato (NIC)
production. Printer
Please Note: any materials submitted with articles (e.g.: disks, Imprimerie European Graphics S.A.
photos), left more than 60 days, will be disposed of. SHAPE Community Life: Bldg. 102 Room 105 - 065/44.2069
All the events announced could be postponed or cancelled due to security reasons related to
COVID-19 outbreak. Please, visit SHAPE2day website, SHAPE Morale & Welfare & SHAPE Notification
Facebook Pages for a more accurate and updated information.
www.shape2day.com SCL 1
COMMUNITY NEWS CONTENTS
August 2021
3 Back to School
5 New Italian School Opening at SHAPE
6 Feast of Sacrifice 2021
8 Toastmasters, a Wealth of Memories
11 Brussels Consignment Shop - USAG Brussels
MILITARY NEWS
12 Allied Command Transformation Staff Element Europe: Brigadier
General Philippe Boisgontier’s Farewell Ceremony
13 NATO Donates Supplies & Equipment to Afghan National Defence & Security Forces
14 ACO & NATO’S Highest Awards:
The SACEUR Recognition Award and NATO Meritorious Service
Medal Awarded to Two NATO CIS Group (NCISG) Staff Members
16 American Legion Post BE02 hosts historical volksmarch in Heuvelland
12
17 Keep an Eye
18 Legal News!
act staff element europe
SHAPE LIFE
22 SHAPE International Band
24 Life in ISS
27 Staying Well Together at SHAPE!
29 Virtue and Ethics in Ancient Greek Philosophy
30 Great Turkish Sailor & Cartographer Piri Reis
32 Safe while Travelling! Food
TRAVEL
35
36
Arenberg Abbey
The Abbey of Farfa ACO & NATO 'S Highest Awards 14
SPORTS & FITNESS
37 Italy: European Champion
39 SHAPE International Cycling Club
40 The Sporting Life
MORALE & WELFARE
32
44 SHAPE Auditorium - Cinema
45 SHAPE International Library - SHAPE Language Centre
46 Rationed Items Store safe while travelling!
48 SHAPE Sports & Fitness - Rendez Vous
SHAPE AGENDA
49 Dates for your Diaries
50 Ongoing
51 SHAPE Travel Group
52 Forum and Puzzles
italy european champion 37
2 SCL
Maintaining a safe and healthy environment will
be the priority number one. After a full period
engaged in fighting the Covid 19 spreading,
everyone is full of energy to face life with a
positive attitude and a mindful awareness.
Returning to school after the summer break
can leave girls and boys filled with dread and
anxiety. Why going back to school is so hard?
If this question is something you’ve asked
yourself, or if you could use some advice getting
back into study mode, these skills will soon beat
back your post-holiday blues and make school
a breeze.
Here a few suggestions to face this tricky moment:
1. Set goals for yourself so you can relieve some
anxiety about starting up again. A few days
before you go back to school, take a pen and
paper, and write a list of personal goals that
you’d like to accomplish during the semester.
These goals might be social, intellectual, or
physical.
2. Take your time getting back into the rhythm
of things. There is no point dancing around
BACK TO
the issue; you’ll need some time before it feels
normal going to school again. Don’t be hard
on yourself. This process can take a week or
two, but coach yourself through your negative
SCHOOL!!
thoughts.
3. Stay focused on homework from the very
beginning. Don’t do tomorrow what you can do
By Alba D’ALCAMO, OCCA. today.
A
4. Pre-pack your bookbag and choose your
new school year is starting soon, end of clothes every night. This will help you to reset
August or early in September, depends your school routine.
on the section chosen. All SHAPE students
will come back to their class to face a new 5. Be mindful of how you and your peers are
school year that holds the promise of being feeling. If you see a friend or a classmate
another extraordinary year of opportunities struggling, do your best to help. Only together
for all of them. we are stronger!
www.shape2day.com SCL 3
4 SCL
Community News
New Italian
School Opening
at SHAPE
By Padre Salvatore LAZZARA & Alba D’ALCAMO, OCCA
O
n Monday 21 June, the Italian
Community inaugurated the new
Italian section in the 700 area in a
building shared with the Norwegian, Polish
and Turkish School Sections. The new
school building includes four classrooms,
one office, one storeroom, one IT room,
two kitchens and a cafeteria to serve
children their lunch.
A ceremony has been organized to christen The plaque - edited and created by Mrs. Paola
the new name of the Italian Primary School: Pacioni, rear Admiral Pacioni’s wife – has been
“Leonardo da Vinci”. The inauguration was affixed to the entrance of the corridor of the
held in the presence of the Consul of Charleroi Italian Section as a symbol of Italian spirit.
David Michelut; the Italian School Director, The plaque displays a person surrounded by
Nadia Zanetti; SHAPE School Authorities such leaves which represents the stylized figure
as Jose Pitellioen, Director of the SHAPE of the Vitruvian man of Leonardo Da Vinci.
international School; the Italian National Below it the plaque also features the Italian
Military Representative Rear Admiral Enrico flag, circled by the thirty flags of each NATO
Pacioni, amongst teachers, pupils and parents. Allied nation.
This event was a great opportunity to present The true purpose of this school is to allow
what the Italian education services offer to children to continue their Italian education
Shapians, introduce the new teacher Tiziana and to inspire them to work hard to achieve
D’Agostino, who will work at SHAPE for the next their dreams and follow their genius living in
three years, and show a video promoting the a multicultural environment.
activities of the Italian School. The video was The ceremony ended with refreshments,
a project led by the Italian Consulate in close carefully prepared by all parents!
cooperation with families and teachers.
The ceremony included acting and singing
performances by pupils, who explained the Best wishes to the new Italian School:
meaning of the symbol of the school. Leonardo da Vinci!
www.shape2day.com SCL 5
FEAST OF SACRIFICE 2021
& Celebration in SHAPE
By CIVELEK, Levent OR-9 TUR-AF
A
ll religions have special Even similar story exists in the Old saves believers from stinginess
feasts and festivals which Testament where Abraham was and passion for worldly goods.
have appeared from specific willing to sacrifice his son, Isaac It also helps the poor to thank
occurrences and orders according until an angel stops him. In every God through wealthy servants, to
to their own believes. This year, the Sacrifice Feast Muslims remember save himself from pessimism and
days between 20 and 23 July 2021 the successfully fulfilled trail hostility about the distribution of
were the Feast of Sacrifice or called of Abraham and his son Ismael world blessings on earth and to
“Kurban Bayramı” in Turkish, also about absolute obedience to feel as a member of his society.
known as “Eid al-Adha” for Muslim the command of God and show
Communities throughout the that they are ready for similar The four-day celebration begins
world, one of two main religious obedience. on the festival’s eve called
(Islamic) feasts. “Arefe”. Traditionally, on the first
The Feast of Sacrifice keeps day of the Sacrifice Feast in Turkey,
The Feast of Sacrifice is celebrated the spirit of brotherhood and men of each family go to a mosque
by Muslims around the world for solidarity alive in society and for a special morning prayer. Then
four days. It is a worship that has contributes to the realization the sacrifice ritual begins. In some
various benefits for the individuals of social justice. It is possible to regions of Turkey, people paint the
and the societies involved. By see this role more prominently sacrificial animal with henna and
sacrificing, Muslims submit to in environments where it is very adorn it with ribbons. Families share
God’s command and vividly difficult or impossible for the poor about two-thirds of the animal’s
demonstrate that they preserve to buy meat or may not eat meat meat with relatives and neighbors,
their consciousness of devotion often. Act of sacrifice gives an and they traditionally give one-
towards him. The Feast of Sacrifice individual pleasure and habit of third to people who are in need.
is based on the experiences of spending his wealthy goods in the It is a different way of sharing the
the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). way of God’s consent, helping and spirit of the feast with all members
People commemorate the event, sharing with needy people, and it of society even with strangers.
Prophet Ibrahim’s trial, in which he Wearing the best outfits during
was ordered by God to sacrifice the Sacrifice Feast and sharing the
his most beloved possession, special homemade Turkish foods
his son Ismail (Ishmael). Muslims and the sacrificed animal meats
believe that Prophet Ibrahim reflects the natural community
wanted to show his obedience spirit of Turkish people. They
to God by agreeing to sacrifice welcome guests to their homes
his son. However, before the or visit relatives and friends
last moment of performing the during the holiday. Many people in
sacrifice his son, God sent him a Turkey reserve the first day of the
ram to sacrifice instead of his son, feast for visiting their relatives.
a divine substitute to sacrifice. Young people greet their older
6 SCL
relatives and neighbors by kissing their hands
and touch to the forehead as a sign of respect.
Pocket money is also given to the children by the
elders. Cologne, candies and especially Turkish
homemade traditional desserts such as baklava
and Turkish coffee are an indispensable part of
the offers to the guests. All in all, the Feast of
Sacrifice is a magnificent religious event which
throughout four days emphasis the unity and
solidarity of people in Islamic communities by
giving them the opportunity to aid the people in
need and the relevance to their souls. Even the
Turkish Armed Forces join this tradition and help
needy people inside of country and any overseas
deployments during feast time to share the spirit
of the festival.
Like every year, The Feast of Sacrifice was
celebrated throughout the world among Muslim
Societies in this year too, nationwide in Turkey
and among Turkish community in SHAPE as well.
The Turkish NMR arranged a gathering on 16
July 2021 to celebrate the Feast for the Turkish
military personnel working at SHAPE. The
celebration was organized in the conference
rooms at SHAPE HQ under the current COVID-19 Veterans are not forgotten
restrictions and started with a speech by the
TUR NMR Major General Rasim YALDIZ.
In his speech, he emphasized the meaning of
the festival, the importance of remembering
the family members and elders who live far
from us at their homes and expressed his
wishes of peace, health and wealth for the
families. Following his speech, he congratulated
all personnel and sent best wishes to their
families.
Like the previous year, family members couldn’t
be able to attend this gathering due to the Turkish Army celebrates feast of needy
people with gift
COVID-19 restrictions.
www.shape2day.com SCL 7
Toastmasters, a Wealth of Memories
By Club President Else-Marie Amundsen
M y Toastmaster ‘journey’ began 16 years
ago, ‘seduced’ by my fellow Norwegian,
Eva Sanders to join the SHAPE
International Toastmasters Club. We were four
‘active’ club members at that meeting. Our club
struggled! But, if you really believe in something,
you do whatever it takes to get there.
Our Club’s ‘Lighthouse’ in the storm became the
then Club President Lieutenant Colonel Steen
Wandahl-Bundesen and his wife Thelma,
who opened their home and their hearts to
Toastmasters and Guests. There was no limit to
their generosity! The couple made our club the
place where Toastmasters and Guests wanted
to be. Steen was instrumental in making the
SHAPE International Toastmasters Club part of
the SHAPE Activity Group II, with all its benefits
and commitments.
My ‘extended’ family. Our club grew gradually in
membership, confidence and rewards. Today,
we are 15 ‘active’ members of 12 nationalities of
different origins, age groups and professions. touched each of us, helping us to achieve
Our club is a gateway to new friends, new heights many of us would never imagine.
experiences and new adventures. It has Our club is an open platform where everyone can
become my ‘extended family’, where everyone provide ideas, promote new methods, give
cares, dares and has no fear. encouraging comments, grasp opportunities
The group vision starts with individual vision. I was and confront challenges. Toastmasters
once called the ‘persistent vice president International Organization offers a goldmine
education’, which I considered a compliment, of information and knowledge to its members
because talent, aptitude and education mean worldwide, and it is good value for money. With
very little when persistence is lacking. However, the latest Pathways educational programme,
some suffered under my persistency. The Area with 11 paths and more than 300 new
Director Denis Buckley’s email box increased competencies, the opportunity for growth as a
by 50% (as well as his workload) during my first Toastmaster has no limit.
term as a novice Club President. I learnt a lot When we volunteer to help our club and
from our Area Director during that Toastmaster members, we help ourselves feel enriched. We
term, sharing my experiences with my fellow share memories with kind and caring people,
club members. and gain valuable competences as speakers
Teamwork builds morale. Now, as our club’s President and leaders.
for a fourth time, with an inspiring team of Retired, but not from Toastmasters. I retired from
six club officers prepared to make sacrifices, SHAPE some years ago, but I continue as a
embrace our differences and move our club SHAPE Toastmaster. Once a Toastmaster, always
forward. This enriches me in every way! I have a Toastmaster. At my stage in life, I don’t need
been fortunate to witness how Toastmasters Toastmasters to boost my career. I need fellow
8 SCLToastmasters to boost my life. As Toastmasters, Summer Memories with SHAPE International
we care about each other, and we understand Toastmasters Club
each other’s struggles and trials, more so
during this difficult pandemic period. Last 27 July, we revisited our wonderful summer
memories with stories of laughter and inspiration.
I have had the pleasure of making extraordinary
friends throughout the 16 years that I have If you’re looking for a way to improve your English
linguistic skills, become a better speaker, and
been a member of this club. The last year has
strengthen your leadership skills in a supportive
been incredible with online meetings gathering and friendly atmosphere, while having fun, join us!
people from all corners of the world, looking
for companionship and inspiration. The SHAPE International Toastmasters is an
English speaking club offering new possibilities.
The SHAPE International Toastmasters Club was Presently, we hold our club meetings online, and
chartered on 1st July 1992, and I can think of no the last ‘summer meeting’ is planned for Tuesday
better group of club members to prepare and 17th August. After that time, we resume our regular
celebrate our Club’s 30th anniversary next year. club meetings, online until further notice, on the
2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. We meet and
I am a richer person, thanks to my Club and my greet from 18:30 hours and start the meeting at
fellow Toastmasters. 19:00 hours (Belgian times).
As always - Stay Healthy, Active, Busy, & Happy!
To obtain a Zoom online meeting link for We can’t stop the clock.
our club meetings, please send an email
totoastmastersshapeclub@gmail.com In return, The best time to start something was yesterday.
you will receive a Zoom online link to join our The next best time is right now!
Toastmasters as a Guest. You can also follow us on Feel free to visit our next meeting on Tuesday 17th
Facebook: August, or any other meetings. Guests are most
www.facebook.com/shapetoastmasters/ welcome!
www.shape2day.com SCL 9JAG U AR L AND ROVE R BEAUTY MEETS PERFORMANCE Members of NATO Forces receive preferential prices for Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles through our Military Sales Program. We supply both brands in RHD and LHD configuration to your countries specification for all NATO members excluding US Members. Now at SHAPE every FIRST and THIRD Thursday of the month. Next to the opticians in the main shopping center car park. For further information, please contact: Peter Thomas, Geilenkirchen, SHAPE / NATO HQ BRUSSELS +49 (0)2451 636084 • +49 (0)2451 9154232 Mobile +31 652303151 • pete.thomas@grantandgreen.de 24 10 SCL
Brussels Consignment Shop - USAG Brussels
Courtesy of IC3
W e are excited to share some news about
another place we can shop for second
hand treasures. Called the “Brussels Consignment
Earn and track hours with the Volunteer Management
Information System, which allows you to be recognized
in a yearly Volunteer Appreciation ceremony but also
Shop (BCS)”, it is a private non-profit community provides an official certificate for work or future job
organization, like Grandma’s Attic, but are located on opportunities. Bring your experience and skills, to help
the US Army Garrison Brussels base (USAG Brussels) build the community and meet some new people!
located in Zaventem.
All profits support their community and recently, For more information, or wish to make an appointment,
please contact Aleks: ·
raised funds that helped SHAPE IC3’s Charity Tombola. Email: brusselsconsignmentshop@gmail.com
An “Antique Corner” helps to fund scholarships at FB: www.facebook.com/brusselsconsignmentshop
the American School. Phone: +32(0)2.2809791 (DSN 314 5979792)
Leuvensesteenweg 13, 1932 Zaventem (Gate- EUROPALAAN).
Everyone is welcome including any SHAPE ID
cardholders, but they must contact them in advance
to arrange to meet at a different gate entrance to Note: At the time of this writing, BCS is collecting for a
be “signed in”. Bring cash (1€ = 1USD); all change will crisis centre in Liege to support recent flood victims.
be given in US dollars. Please like their FB page to be kept updated for what
they are accepting and when/where you can drop it off.
Bring items to donate, but please consider its condition:
“Would you buy it again to give to a friend?” VINTAGE CLOSET By VC
If you wish to consign, contact them for an The Vintage Closet (VC) is situated
in the 500 area, next to the Hair
appointment; find the form on their website! Salon on SHAPE. We are a Thrift shop
and sell a variety of pre-loved and
Aleks Chrzanowska-Gruszka, is the new Manager sometimes new items. The customer
receives 80% of the sale and we
(she speaks English and German) and is in need of retain 20%, which goes to charity.
more volunteers who can work Tuesday or Thursday, Customers can also donate items
between 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, possibly with occasional directly to charity and support local
weekends. Every volunteer that puts in at least 10 and international charities, and have
helped may worthy causes over the
hours a month gets 50% off on all shop property years. We are all volunteers who run the
items purchased. VC and we are always looking for help.
If you would like to find out more
about this, please get in touch via our
Grandma’s Attic - USAG Chievres Facebook page or call into the shop
for a chat, it really is rewarding and
By Suzanne Price a great way to meet new and interesting
O
people.
pen to all Americans and all NATO ID card We are open on the following days:
holders, Grandma’s Attic is a private, not-for- Tuesday 10.00 - 13.00 / Wednesday 10.00 - 13.00 (For sales only)
Thursday 10.00 - 14.00 (For consignments only)
profit thrift shop run by volunteers in order to
raise money to sponsor military, civilian and scholastic
organizations and events in the SHAPE/Chievres If you know of a need in the community and wish to
community. This includes everything from local charity learn more about our funding opportunities, please
groups to SHAPE School Sports teams, Base community email us at grandmas.attic.chievres@gmail.com.
events, tutoring groups and Women/Family shelters.
If you wish to become a volunteer, we would love to
A dedicated group of international volunteers enable the have your help. Stop by during business hours to fill out
day-to-day management of Grandma’s Attic. With their a short application.
help, the store sort through hundreds of donations every
month and provides the community with low-priced Don’t forget to like us on FB: www.facebook.com/
goods such as clothing, appliances and those super useful GrandmasAtticChievres for our hours and pictures of
transformers! items currently for sale.
We have also assisted SHAPE IC3 in their mission to serve
local Belgian charities. SHAPE IC3 partnered with us this
past summer to assist St. Vincent de Paul Conference Pere
Andre, donating unsold items or unusable/out of season
donations. Supporting local families in Ath, Brugelette and
Chievres, St. Vincent volunteers met our community donors.
www.shape2day.com SCL 11Another warm speech was provided by Mr.
Paul Savereux, who underlined the successful
cooperation between NATO HQ and SHAPE
ACT by stating: «the key to the success that
we’ve had in the last two years is in large part
due to this man here [referring to BrigGen.
Boisgontier], because -he continued- he works so
diligently, so hard, so meticulously, on trying to
understand the process, which he did extremely
quickly! He is a very intelligent officer but also an
extremely persuasive one: he can be in front of
nations and he can “sell snow to the esquimals”
Allied Command -he laughed. He is that good! And it is indeed
an honour, a privilege, working with him.» Mr.
Transformation Staff Savereux concluded his speech by giving General
Boisgontier a very special gift while saying “if
Element Europe: anyone deserves this gift, that’s you”.
Brigadier General
Philippe Boisgontier, in response to such
generous comments, took the floor to thank all of
the ACO Soldiers and Civilians, the other service
Philippe Boisgontier’s component commands such as NATO HQ, IS,
IMS, NCIA staff and the host nation of Belgium.
Farewell Ceremony In August 2017, Boisgontier assumed the title of
Courtesy of ACT DACOS DP for ACT SEE in Mons, Belgium where
A
he led the charge for implementation of the NATO
farewell ceremony was held at NATO’s Defence Planning process, in particular NATO
Allied Command Transformation Staff requirements, Targets to Nations and Review and
Element Europe on Friday, July 16, 2021 he will now go onto his retirement after serving
the French Army for 39 years.
for French Army Brigadier General Philippe
Boisgontier in the framework of his departure.
An outdoor lunch with over 100 people was
preceded by some addresses from various
element leaders and friends of the General.
The atmosphere was charged with energy,
emotion, and friendship. Boisgontier was
surrounded by colleagues, including SHAPE Vice
Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Brice Houdet,
the French National Military Representative
Francois Marie Gougeon, Mr. Paul Savereux, Head
of the Defence Planning Directorate at NATO HQ
International Staff, and a show of strong support
from the French and international community.
In the words of Colonel Daniel Friend, Brigadier
General Boisgontier’s Deputy talking about him
“as the face of the BI-SCs [Bilateral Strategic
Command] leading NATO Defence planning
activities by reaching new levels of transparency
and confidence to the nations that eagerly sought
out his military advice and trusted him to be an
honest broker.” In addition, he publicly thanked
him on behalf of ACT SEE: “I wish to thank you
for your leadership, your steadfast direction and
the positive command climate you provided, that
made ACT-SEE an incredible place to work and
to transform the alliance. You took care of your
people and we are sad to see you depart.”
12 SCLmilitary news
NATO Donates Supplies & Equipment
to Afghan National Defence and
Security Forces
Courtesy of NATO HQ
N
ATO is stepping up deliveries of military equipment to Afghanistan as the Alliance withdraws
its forces from the country. So far this year, NATO has donated roughly US$72 million worth
of supplies and equipment to the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces, ranging from
medical supplies to high-tech combat simulators, hospital X-ray machines, and specialist equipment
to defuse bombs. The latest delivery arrived on Monday (2 August 2021).
“The security situation in Afghanistan remains deeply challenging,
so these supplies arrive at an important time,” said acting NATO
spokesperson Dylan White.
“As we withdraw our forces from the country, we will continue
to support Afghanistan, including with equipment to help the
Afghan forces better provide for their own security,” he said.
NATO Secretary General
Jens Stoltenberg reiterated
NATO’s continued support
T H E for Afghanistan in a call with
President Ashraf Ghani on 27
July, noting that this will include
funding, civilian presence, and
out-of-country training.
Among the NATO-funded
supplies is medical gear to
treat wounded soldiers on
the battlefield and equipment
for Kabul’s National Medical
Hospital. The supplies also
include firefighting trucks, body
armour and teaching materials
to help children spot and avoid
landmines. Projects are aimed
at strengthening the Afghan
security forces, especially in the
areas of logistics, organisation,
education and medicine.
The equipment has been funded
through the NATO-run Afghan
National Army Trust Fund.
As of May, total contributions
E N JOY E V E R Y E DGE . made to the Trust Fund since
2007 amounted to around
US$3.5 billion, of which roughly
Environmental information (RD 19/03/04): bmw.be $440 million have gone toward
4,9-8,4 L/100 KM • 127-192 G/KM CO2 (WLTP) supplies and equipment.
Louyet Brussels Louyet Charleroi Louyet La Louvière Louyet Mons Louyet Sambreville Louyet Sint-Pieters-Leeuw
Chaussée de Louvain 864 Rue de Mons 80 Rue de la Déportation 61 Rue des Sandrinettes 48 Rue Bois Sainte-Marie 180 Bergensesteenweg 720
1140 Brussels 6000 Charleroi 7100 La Louvière 7033 Mons-Cuesmes 5060 Sambreville (Auvelais) 1600 Sint-Pieters-Leeuw
Tél. 02 730 49 11
www.louyet.bmw.be
Tél. 071 20 22 60
www.louyet.bmw.be
Tél. 064 77 30 30
www.louyet.bmw.be
Tél. 065 40 02 00
www.louyet.bmw.be
Tél. 071 75 06 30
www.louyet.bmw.be
Tél. 02 360 08 80
www.louyet.bmw.be www.shape2day.com SCL 13
diplomaticsales@louyet.beACO & NATO’S Highest Awards:
The SACEUR Recognition Award and NATO
Meritorious Service Medal Awarded to Two NATO
CIS Group (NCISG) Staff Members
Story by NCISG Public Affairs Office
T
he NATO Communications and Information Systems Group (NCISG)
Commander, Major General Frank Schlösser presented Lieutenant
Colonel René Crepin the SACEUR Recognition Award (SRA) and Ms
Veneta Rusalova, NATO International Civilian, the NATO Meritorious Service
Medal (MSM) during a ceremony at SHAPE on June 25, 2021.
The awards were bestowed on behalf of The NCISG Commander said: “I am proud
the Supreme Allied Commander Europe to work with such an outstanding performer
(SACEUR), General Tod D. Wolters, and of who has developed innovative processes in
the Secretary General, Mr. Jens Stoltenberg, order to improve and facilitate the operational
for outstanding NATO service. capability of NCISG personnel”.
In his speech, Major General Frank Schlösser Lieutenant Colonel Crepin started working
first praised Lieutenant Colonel Crepin for for NATO in July 2019,
his exceptional service and outstanding serving as the Training
individual achievement in strengthening Management Branch
the links between NCISG HQ and the NATO Head in the J7 Division
Communications and Information Agency at the NCISG.
(NCIA) and the NATO Signal Battalions (NSBs). As the Branch Head
in charge of individual
“I am proud to work with such an training, he first adapted
outstanding performer who has the bidding phase for the
developed innovative processes in reservation of courses
order to improve and facilitate the to be consistent with
operational capability of NCISG the needs of the NSBs
personnel”. and HQ.
Despite the COVID-19
crisis, he was determined
to continue individual
training even in the face
of all the challenges and
constraints related to
the pandemic.
He pushes for, and was deeply involved in,
the modernization of individual training, in
particular through the development of on-
line or virtual courses provided by the NCIA.
The SACEUR Recognition Award was
established in order to recognize exceptional
service and outstanding individual achievement
in a way that may be career enhancing for the
Rene Crepin-right-Major General Frank Schloesser recipient and stands below the NATO MSM
but above awards and commendations by
14 SCLuMs Veneta Rusalova-right-Major
General Frank Schloesser
the individual Allied Command Operations The NATO Meritorious Service Medal is the
(ACO) Commands, making it the senior ACO- highest NATO medal awarded by the NATO
awarded honour. Secretary General to a select number of
Major General Schlösser also had the honour military and civilian personnel serving under
of presenting the NATO Meritorious Service NATO command and control.
Medal to Ms Veneta Rusalova. The NATO MSM was established by the North
She started working for NATO in April 2014 as a Atlantic Council in 2003, for meritorious
Technician in the J2/6 Division at the NCISG. Ms service in recognition of remarkable service
Rusalova has played a major role in supporting in the interest of the Alliance.
NATO Response Force (NRF) exercises. The NCISG Commander concluded by
She has provided exemplary guidance to the congratulating the recipients, thanking their
NATO Signal Battalions’ technicians during families for their behind-the-scenes support,
training workshops. and wishing them continued success.
The Commander NCISG, Major General Frank Schlösser
underlined that:
“Ms Rusalova is fully deserving of this highest award
and can be extremely proud of her achievements,
which go well beyond the scope of her normal
responsibilities.”
www.shape2day.com SCL 15American Legion Post BE02 Hosts Historical
Volksmarch in Heuvelland
Courtesy of the American Legion
HEUVELLAND, Belgium—In a joint venture Those interested in participating are
with the WandelSport Vlaanderen, the encouraged to sign-up in advanced by emailing
American Legion “Flanders Field” Post BE02 flanders.fields.post.be02@gmail.com, or the
is hosting a historical volksmarch from 9 day of the event at the registration booth
a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 28, 2021 outside the Heuvelland Tourist Center. While
to commemorate the Battle of Vierstraat participation in the walk is free of charge,
Ridge. donations are being accepted.
There are three different walking trails, Limited refreshments will be available for
18K, 11K and 7K, complete with historical purchase along the route.
facts and re-enactors. Along the 18K route, An American style barbeque will also take
participants can visit the Bayernwald place at the Kemmel Market Square from 11
Trenches, the Pool of Peace, and the Cold a.m. to 5 p.m.
War Command Bunker.
Mitchell A. Yockelson author of “Borrowed
“U.S. involvement in the liberation of Belgium Soldiers,” will also be available to sign copies
during World War I is not well known,” said of his book.
Joseph Schram, Flanders Field Post BE02
commander. “This walk provides an opportunity
to walk the battlefield and learn how Americans
supported the overall war efforts.”
Battle Background
During July and August 1918, units from the
U.S. 27th and 30th Divisions rotated in and out
of defensive positions occupied by British
forces. The purpose was to learn tactics
and provide a baptism of fire to the men. On
August 31, two regiments of the 27th Div
ision occupied the front lines on Vierstraat
Ridge while two regiments of the 30th
Division occupied the left flank of the line
up to Zillebeke Lake (near Ypres). Fighting
continued for three days with the 27th
moving forward to the ridge near the village
of Wijtschate. Keeping in line with the 27th
Division, the 30th Division captured the village
of Voormezele.
On September 3, 1918, both Divisions were
relieved by British forces and transported to
Northern France to fight on the Hindenburg
Line
Contact:
flanders.fields.post.be02@gmail.com
16 SCLSHAPE Field Office - ACCI SHAPE Field Office
Bldg. 101, Room K125
065 44 8809 accisfodistro@shape.nato.int
Keep Your Eye Open
Belgium in the Spotlight
Courtesy of ACCI SHAPE Field Office
If you are a fan of spy novels and movies, you are used With so many targets of opportunity of espionage in
to the settings centered around major glamorous one place, Belgium is ranked one of the highest states
cities such as New York, London or Geneva. The to fall victim to spy activity. However, this does not
setting that is often overlooked, but far more mean you and your family have to fall victim to these
realistic is Brussels, Belgium. Home to several major efforts. Being exposed to so many cultures in one
international organizations, Brussels is a beacon for space is great for learning and experience, but make
espionage of all varieties. sure to monitor what you expose about yourself,
your family and the SHAPE community. We need you
Belgium is a target for spies for two reasons. First,
so assist us to keep NATO safe. If you feel as if you
is that it is the headquarters for many international
are talking to someone who would like to know more
institutions such as the European Union, NATO,
about NATO or SHAPE than they should, fell free to
Universities and Centers of Excellence. Second, there
contact an allied Agent in the SHAPE Field Office to
are several diasporas who have made Belgium their
discuss your concern. They are available 24/7 when
home. Not only are there micro-communities of NATO
you need help. Help us, help you to stay safe.
member nations associated with SHAPE, Belgium also
boasts cultural contingents from Morocco, Turkey, If you think you need to speak with ACCI,
Rwanda and many countries in Africa including the contact us at:
Congo and Senegal. This vast array of cultures, makes SHAPE Field Office (SFO):
Brussels a convenient location to gather information Bldg. 101, Room K125
about other nations, without having to enter their Tel: 065-44-8809/8811
borders. Email: accisfodistro@shape.nato.int
www.shape2day.com SCL 17Legal News!
Mission Appeals Tribunal (MAT):
The Creation of an Independent and Impartial Appeals Tribunal for
Civilian Hires in NATO Mission Iraq (NMI)
By Beatriz Pino Barranco (CIV)ACO / SHAPE Office of Legal Affairs
Creation and Functioning of the MAT
The MAT was born from the imperative necessity
to update existing means of dispute resolution for
the sector of personnel cited above2. Once JFCNP
launched the project in 2018, the creation process
of the MAT proceeded through several phases;
starting with its approval by the Budget Committee
in 2019, directly followed by the official request
for NATO members States to propose judges. In
2020, the appointment of judges from the list of
proposed candidates took place, up to the present
day, where the last arrangements are carried out
following scrupulously legal criteria assessed with
the support of renowned external experts like Dr.
Niels Blokker3.
I
n October 2018, the first two sets of As such, the MAT is to be primarily managed
rules applicable to International Civilian by the JFCNP, without prejudice to potential co-
Hire (ICH) and Local Civilian Hire (LCH) management with other NATO bodies within the
personnel, respectively, were approved for Allied Command Operations (ACO) constellation
the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI)1. The difference as the MAT system expands to missions beyond
between the two types of personnel being the NMI. It shall consist of three independent and
fact that ICH are nationals of NATO member impartial Judges (‘members’) and one alternate.
countries, or of Troop Contributing Nations Additionally, the court will be provided with a
while LCH are Iraqi nationals or persons Registrar offering administrative support.
legally and officially residing in Iraq. However, The jurisdiction of the MAT extends to all appeals
they both share their status as civilian hires against a final decision of a mission’s Commander
not covered by the NATO Civilian Personnel (COM) after all available pre-litigation means have
Regulations (NCPRs). Similarly, they do not been exhausted in accordance with the applicable
hold the status of contractor, nor are they regulations. Additionally, the tribunal will count
part of NATO military forces. In this sense, the on a special interim chamber dedicated to ACO-
CSR ICH/LCH not only contain the legal basis wide Data Protection claims. All rulings of the MAT
governing the contracts of civilians in NMI, but are definitive and will constitute the termination
they formally introduce a pioneering system of of internal channels.
appeal at second instance for said personnel
faction. The idea of creating a mission-specific Independence and Impartiality
tribunal crystallized into the establishment of As has been asserted by extensive international
the Mission Appeals Tribunal (MAT) at the Joint jurisprudence, the right to a fair trial requires that
Force Command Naples (JFCNP) headquarters, a case be heard by an independent and impartial
which is to guarantee the right to a fair trial tribunal. The European Court of Human Rights
of those specific categories of personnel not (ECtHR) addresses this question by applying an
covered by existing procedures. independence and impartiality ( I&I) test geared
1
NATO JFCNP, Civilian Staff Rules for International Civilian Hires employed by NATO Mission Iraq, 31st October 2018; NATO JFCNP, Civilian Staff
Rules for Local Civilian Hires employed by NATO Mission Iraq, 31st October 2018. In the following, CSR ICH/LCH.
2
2011 Report of the External Panel on the Modernization of the NAB, identifying the lack of proper remedies in AD 045-003, Management of
Manpower for NATO Operations and Exercises.
3
Professor of International Institutional Law at the Grotius Centre for International Legal Studies, Leiden University.
18 SCLtowards article 6 of the European Convention with ICH and LCH status (ratione personae). It
of Human Rights (ECHR). This was the line of will furthermore be activated after exhaustion of
foundation in the Gasparini v. Italy and Belgium4 available pre-litigation remedies and, in any case,
case in 2009, which confirmed the compliance of within a period of twenty days after the situations
the then called NATO Administrative Board (NAB) enumerated in Chapter XII, Art. 33.3 CSR ICH/LCH
(ratione temporis). The geographical jurisdiction
–currently the NATO Administrative Tribunal
(ratione loci) extends to the mission area, in this
(NAT) – with the criteria contained in such legal case Iraq, without prejudice of future expansions
examination. In this specific case, the ECtHR based to other missions.
its decision on the Bosphorus presumption, which
embodies the existing assumption of compliance c) Manner of appointment of judges and terms
by States and/or international organizations of office
with their obligations under the ECHR unless Applicable case-law, e.g., Sramek v. Austria and
the protection of fundamental rights equivalent Luka v. Romania7, has evidenced the relevance of
to what the Convention requires is proven to be the composition of a judicial body, as well as the
“manifestly deficient”5. The foundations of the manner and period of appointment of its members.
NAB have inspired those of the MAT, reason why When analysing the I&I of a court, the ECtHR
has often extrapolated this to the characteristics
the criteria used in that specific case will serve as
of the selection process of judges, which shall
guidance for the analysis of the I&I of the latter. offer sufficient resilience against external
a) Establishment by law influences to pass the test. On the other hand, the
‘irremovability’ of members of a decision-making
In order to be compatible with I&I requirements, body during their assigned office terms appears
a tribunal must be established by law, as it would as a corollary of their independence8, as “[j]udges
otherwise lack the legitimacy required in a may be dismissed only on serious grounds of
democratic society to hear individual cases. The misconduct or incompetence, in accordance with
obligation to offer a means of internal conflict fair procedures”9.
resolution is expressly recognized in Art. XXIV of The compliance of the MAT with the enlisted criteria
the Ottawa Agreement6 in line with the principle of becomes evident as members were appointed by
functional necessity. Being as it is a reference point means of a two-phased system, in which judges
through which NATO’s activity and development were firstly proposed by NATO nations through
unfolds, this principle translates into, inter their NATO Military Representatives (NMRs) to
alia, NATO’s immunity from jurisdiction, which then be included in different ‘judges rosters’ by the
JFCNP Chief of Staff (COS). The nations nominated
implies; 1) NATO’s prerogative of non-subjectivity
candidates on the basis of merit and conformity
to national courts and, simultaneously; 2) the with objective pre-requisites , i.e., according to
obligation to guarantee an alternative judicial professional credentials, relevant experience as
channel to staff members. Complementarily, the judges or professors of international law, personal
MAT operates on the basis of the principle of due attributes, absence of incompatibility of interests,
process, the CSR ICH/LCH, and the Operations/ and the holding of a valid security clearance
Missions specific Status of Forces Agreement. prior to the taking of office. The JFCNP COS, on
the other hand, serves as the final sifting within
b) Jurisdiction a system of check and balance by eliminating
The I&I criteria equally require the compliance the possibility of incompatibility or connection
of the tribunal with the rules that govern it so as between members of the same roster (internal),
with presented legal cases or the parties involved
to assure that the assignment of a legal case to a
(transversal). The judges serve for defined periods
particular judge/court falls within their margin of
of time depending on their particular post within
appreciation in such matters, i.e., clearly defined
scope of jurisdiction. The legal basis for the MAT’s the MAT10. The continuity of exercise is guaranteed
jurisdiction is enshrined in the CRS ICH/LCH, which during said periods, as it is within the nature and
stipulate its competence (ratione materiae) to hear logic of any mission-dedicated mechanism, to offer
cases on employment matters affecting personnel uninterrupted and efficient services.
4
Gasparini v Italy and Belgium, Admissibility, no. 10750/03, ECtHR, 12 May 2009.
5
Bosphorus Hava Yollari Turizm ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi v. Ireland [GC], no. 45036/98, ECtHR, 30 June 2005.
6
NATO, Agreement on the Status of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, National Representatives and International Staff
(Ottawa Agreement), Ottawa, 1951.
7
Sramek v. Austria, no. 8790/79, § 38, ECtHR, 22 October 1984.
8
Luka v. Romania, no. 34197/02, § 44, ECtHR, 21 July 2009.
9
Sara Joseph, M. C., ‘Part III Civil and Political Rights, 14 Rights to a Fair Trial – Article 14’ from: The International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights: Cases, Materials, and Commentary (3rd Ed.), Oxford Public International Law, 1 July 2013, para. 20.
10
See Annex E, Rule 5 CSR ICH/LCH.
www.shape2day.com SCL 19d) Appearance of independence and personal qualities is thoroughly assessed as a
precondition for the appointment, is inextricably
As stated in the Grace Gatt v. Malta11 case, “justice
linked to the objective test. Depending on the
must not only be done, it must also be seen to be
circumstances, the appointment and/or extension
done”. What is at stake is the confidence which
of the judges’ terms of office, will depend on the
the court in a democratic society must inspire
compliance with conditions set out in Rule 5 CSR
in the public, i.e., whether it could give rise to
ICH/LCH among others, i.e., “independence and
legitimate doubts among the litigants, regarding the
impartiality in the performance of duties”, “no
independence of the members – specifically – and
[interference] directly or indirectly with the work
the tribunal –generally. According to the mentioned
of the MAT”, “adjudicat[ion] [of] matters without
case, tribunals in which a member of the board is
favours or bias”, and “refrain[ing] from any activity
subordinate in rank to the Head of that organ “in
in conflict with the interests of the MAT or which
terms of duties and the organisation of service, may
could damage the MAT’s reputation”.
give rise to [such] doubt vis-à-vis the parties”.
This is addressed in the rules applicable to the MAT Conclusion
in terms of the expected non-hierarchical dynamic The MAT is the result of a well-awaited reform
towards NATO bodies, particularly JFCNP, thus recommended in 2011 by the External Panel on
precluding the possibility of directly influencing the the Modernization of the NAB16. It is a tribunal
fate of the parties to a grievance. As stated in Rule specifically designed with due regard to the
3 of the CSR ICH/LCH, “any dispute as to its own fulfilment of all requirements of I&I developed
competence shall be decided by the MAT itself”. by international jurisprudence on the right to
It is a question of independence not only discernible a fair trial (art. 6 ECHR; art. 14 ICCPR). When
in the rules of procedure of the tribunal, as it applying the Gasparini v. Italy and Belgium
also reflected in such factual aspects as the non- rationale, the compliance of the MAT with the
inclusion of MAT members into the payroll of any Bosphorus presumption becomes irrefutable as it
NATO body while similarly not filling any post stands in concordance with all criteria taken into
of the Organisation. The judges follow strictly consideration by EU case-law to demonstrate (or
parallel procedures inherent to their condition of discard) the I&I of a given tribunal for the sake of the
independent agents appointed and paid on an ad ECHR17. This becomes even more evident when it is
hoc basis. realised that the NAB underwent a similar review
in 2009 whose I&I was confirmed by the ECtHR.
e) Impartiality The rules governing the MAT have evolved from
Applicable international jurisprudence12 points at the same foundations as those of the NAB, so that,
two aspects to the requirement of impartiality: 1) it must be concluded that very intentionally NAB
the tribunal must be subjectively free of prejudice judicial safeguards have been replicated in the MAT.
or personal bias (subjective test); and 2) it must
also be impartial from an objective point of view
(objective test). In applying the former, it is
commonly held that “the personal impartiality of
a judge must be presumed until there is proof to
the contrary”13.
Although subjective impartiality has proven to
be difficult to demonstrate, the CSR ICH/LCH
cover aspects assessed by the ECtHR14, such as
the member’s mandate to “comply with ethical
considerations” and to “be persons of high moral
character”15. The selection procedure of members,
where the concurrence of suitable professional MAT 3rd Training Session - June 2021
11
Grace Gatt v. Malta, no. 46466/16, § 77, ECtHR, 8 October 2019.
12
Maria Cristina Lagunas Castedo v. Spain, no. 1122/02, U.N. Doc. CCPR/C/94/D/1122/2002, HRC, 20 October 2008; Clarke v. the United Kingdom
(dec.), no. 23695/02, ECtHR, 25 August 2005.
13
Inter alia, Le Compte, Van Leuven and De Meyere v. Belgium, nos. 6878/75 and 7238/75, § 58, ECtHR, 23 June 1981.
14
Buscemi v. Italy, no. 29569/95, §§ 67- 68, ECtHR, 16 September 1999; Golunovic v. Croatia, no. 43947/10, § 62, ECtHR, 27 November 2012.
15
See Annex E, Rule 5 lit. f) CSR ICH/LCH.
16
Supra, note. 2.
17
1) Establishment by law, 2) clearly defined jurisdiction, 3) fair and transparent manner of appointment, 4) defined terms of office, 5) appearance of
independence, and 6) impartiality.
20 SCLThen she addressed the issue of the use of force by
individual soldiers and units, and delved into the main
concerns regarding the Rules of Engagement (ROE)
and their interrelation with the right to self-defence,
bearing in mind that this latter right is never restricted
by these military directives.
Besides, depending on whether we are in an armed
conflict or in a peacetime situation, International
Humanitarian Law (IHL) or International Law of
Human Rights (ILHR) might be applied and possible
suspension/derogations from human rights treaties
can take place, leading to contrasting outcomes.
The different challenges that the NATO Allies have
Lecture on the Use experienced in the last decades regarding the use of force
of Force within NATO were analysed as well (e.g. detention in armed conflict
and cyber operations), taking into account the divergent
to UCAM interpretations and national caveats that may sometimes
By Borja Montes Toscano LAWFAS Content Manager
hamper the effectiveness of operations and exercises.
L
ACO Office of Legal Affairs
ast 5th July, Colonel Nathalie Durhin (ACO Further remarks were made in relation to the purposes
Office of Legal Affairs / Operational Law of ROE as regards the control of the level of hostilities
Branch, Head) gave a lecture on “The by graduating the violence escalation or coordination of
Use of Force within NATO” to students from joint and allied military actions, among others.
the Master of International Relations at the UCAM students showed enthusiasm for the lecture
Universidad Católica de San Antonio de Murcia provided by Colonel Durhin and exchanged enriching
(UCAM).1 views on legal but also political aspects of global security
Colonel Durhin started explaining the legal grounds in support of SACEUR’s mission. These trainings are
for the use of force by NATO as an international essential in order to draw lessons on complex legal issues,
organisation, and the legal framework for NATO especially in times when
operations upon the basis of Articles 3, 4 and 5 of the instrumentalization of the
North Atlantic Treaty (NAT). law by different stakeholders
is becoming the rule.
Since May 2019, ACO OLA holds an academic arrangement with the Universidad Católica de San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM).
1
IN MEMORIAM
The entire SHAPE community offers its most heartfelt condolences to
Luigi Monteleone’s family for his sudden demise.
Luigi, for many of his friends Gigi, was a cherished member of the
Italian Community, always friendly and helpful to all, beloved equally
by family, colleagues and friends. His loss will be deeply felt not only
by his wife and his daughter, also by the whole Italian and international
community and all who had the luck of getting to know him.
We would like to thank all SHAPE community for all the support and
affection we have received in this very terrible moment.
CIELI BLU PER TE, GIGI !
www.shape2day.com SCL 21SHAPE
International Band By Staff Sergeant Nicholas Cressotti (U.S. Army)
The SHAPE International Band is a joint-service, international military band comprised of twenty musicians
representing NATO member nations, dedicated to performing in support of SHAPE, SACEUR, and the
NATO Alliance. To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the SHAPE International Band has temporarily
postponed some upcoming public performances. However, as operations slowly resume, we are once again
performing for official functions – some of which are featured here
Sergeant First Class Tony Master Sergeant Stephanie Doehr (U.S. The Task Force Ten horn section Technical Sergeant Jeffrey Hall
Williams (U.S. Army) sings with Army) and Sergeant Nicholas Tolman (U.S. performs at a U.S. Independence (U.S. Air Force) Takes a solo at
the Task Force Ten. Army) perform with NATO Unplugged. Day celebration. the Canada Day festivities.
22 SCLSHAPE LIFE
In The Swing Of Summer
In recent weeks The SHAPE International Band had Master Sergeant Rebecca Wischmann (U.S. Air Force) sings with the
the honour of performing for Canada Day and the SHAPE International Band
United States Independence Day. These events took
place both in Brussels and here in Mons with great
people and food. The United States Independence
Day celebration at Chievres Air Base gave families
the opportunity to mingle and kids a chance to play
with bounce houses, a mechanical bull and eat some
delicious barbecue. Please take a moment to visit the
SHAPE International Band facebook page to see
some more photos from these summer performances:
www. facebook.com/SHAPEInternationalBand
Band Member Spotlight: Staff Sergeant Henry Soriano
The SHAPE International Band recently had the honour Staff Sergeant Henry Soriano (U.S. Army) plays drums with the SHAPE
of performing a song Staff Sergeant Henry Soriano was International Band.
born in Baguio City, Philippines. In 1992 he moved to
the United States and gained citizenship in 1999. He
began the Jazz Studies program at the University of
Nevada, Las Vegas and in 2006 left to tour around the
world. In 2014 he enlisted in the U.S. Army and has
served with the Army Bands at Camp Zama, Japan and
Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Throughout his career he
has performed with many high caliber musicians such as
Phil Woods, Monty Alexander, Marlena Shaw, Shirley
Horn, Harvey Mason, Kenney Burrell, and Ron Carter.
He has also won the Army’s Music Performance Team
of the Year award twice with the United States Army
Japan Ceremonial Band. At the SHAPE International
Band, Staff Sergeant Soriano performs as the drummer
in the NATO Jazz Orchestra, Task Force X, the NATO
Jazz Combo, and NATO Unplugged.
Want to request the SHAPE International Band?
0032 065/44 3322 Visit our website, download our request form and
shapeband@shape.nato.int email it duly completed to us!
Website: https://shape.nato.int/shapeband
The SHAPE International Band features the following ensembles:
NATO Jazz Orchestra: Large jazz ensemble performing NATO Unplugged: Acoustic small ensemble
big band music from the 1930’s through today. performing Popular, Folk and Americana music.
NATO Jazz Combo: Small jazz ensemble performing Ceremonial Band: Traditional military marching
R&B and traditional & modern jazz. band performing marches, anthems, and ceremonial
Solo Vocalist: Soloist performing anthems for ceremonial music for large indoor and outdoor ceremonies.
and official events. NATO Brass Ambassadors: Small ceremonial brass
Solo Instrumentalist: Soloist performing a variety of ensemble performing anthems, marches, and chamber
styles for socials, balls, and official events. music.
Task Force X: Show band performing Popular, Rock, Ceremonial Bugler: Solo bugler performing for
and Dance music for large events. ceremonies and official events.
A note about upcoming events:
SHAPE Fest - DATE TBD
www.shape2day.com SCL 23You can also read
