The Task Force War Eagle under the command of 1st Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment crosses the border from Vilseck, Germany, to Mourmelon, France, Jan. 30, 2020 in a historic convoy movement for Kreigsadler II exercise.
The Task Force War Eagle departed on Jan. 29, 2020 and made the 675-kilometer journey from Germany to France.
“As one of the chalk leaders for this movement, I’m excited about this because it allows us to train with our allies in France,” said 1st Lt. Zachary Davis, infantry officer and mortar platoon leader, assigned to 1/2CR. “Any time we get an opportunity to drive our Strykers and vehicles across Europe, it is a unique opportunity for this squadron because it allows us to demonstrate our capabilities to the world. We want everyone to know that no matter the distance or location, we will find our way there.”
Along the route, the task force exercised internal systems to demonstrate their ability as a self-sustaining organization during the tactical road movement. They conducted refueling operations, field feeding operations, vehicle recoveries and maintenance for equipment that experienced mechanical issues throughout the TRM.
“This movement and operation demonstrated our grit and determination,” said Capt. Zachary Shearin, infantry officer and operations officer, assigned to 1/2CR. “As the only Stryker brigade combat team in Europe, having that ability to test our systems to ensure we are always ready to answer the nation’s call is a critical pillar we must test out to be ready.”
This exercise is one of a kind, as the Task Force War Eagle is the first U.S. Army unit since 1944 to use this training area according to the Mourmelon Training Center and logistics support commander, Lt. Col. Jean-Charles Sansguilhem. His unit is tasked with ensuring that the task force is equipped with the necessary logistical support needed to conduct training on the various ranges while in the area.
In a unique location, this is the first time in history that Stryker vehicle platforms will conduct live-fire and situational training exercises in France. The task force will use multiple Styker systems including the U.S. Army prototype, the Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle – Dragoon, which has the same fire power as an Air Force Warthog Thunderbolt Jet with its 30mm cannon.
The Task Force will complete Kreigsadler II with assistance from their NATO aligned French partner unit, the 2nd Armoured Brigade. Elements from 1/2CR will have the opportunity to embed with the partnered unit to familiarize Soldiers with their capabilities and customs.
Once the exercise is complete, the task force will jump in their Strykers once again to journey back to Vilseck.
