In the period between 20.06-25.06.2016 in “Ilinden” barracks in Skopje there was a workshop on “Repair and maintenance of engineering machinery” organized in collaboration with the Office for Bilateral Cooperation of the Armed Forces (AF) of the United States. The workshop was attended by the representatives of the National Guard of Vermont and representatives of the Engineer Battalion (Eng Bn), part of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade. After welcoming the representatives of the Vermont National Guard a briefing on the situation and type of engineering machinery (e/m) used by the ENG BN was held.
During the workshop the US Defence Attache in Macedonia Colonel Thomas Butler and the Bilateral Affairs officer Major Dawn Nichols visited the unit.
The representatives of the Vermont National Guard conducted an assessment of the engineering machines available in the unit, they repaired minor defects and serviced the equipment. They also conducted practical training for the operators of the engineering machinery. The operators of the e/m also exchanged their experience, gained through numerous trainings and field works, related to proper handling and maintenance of the equipment.
The Engineer Battalion used all facilities of the Head Quarters, the Command Staff and the subordinate units to make an advantage of the visit of US Armed Forces personnel. After a successful working visit a decision for future cooperation was made.
