For each other, not just beside each other

“This headquarters has never been about a single nation or a single military force. It has always been about us, professionals, who are working in unity towards a common goal by unifying different viewpoints, cultures and experiences” – emphasized Major General Tibor Králik.

“This way, together we have contributed to something that goes beyond all of us: the strengthening of NATO’s preparedness and collective defence on the eastern flank of the Alliance” – pointed out the outgoing commander. The Slovak general served 51 months at HQ MND-C. Under his command, HQ MND-C achieved some of the most significant milestones in its history, culminating in the successful attainment of Full Operational Capability.

“The only constant is change – leaders change and the team also changes with the passage of time. What remains, however, is the spirit of cooperation, professional excellence and the commitment to the shared mission” – this was how Major General Tibor Králik closed his speech.

Major General László Antal, the first Hungarian general at the helm of the organization recalled that Hungary has been a committed member of NATO for decades. His position symbolizes that “trust is mutual, the Alliance is real, and the cooperation is fruitful”. The new commander also talked about what the motto of the organization – “Innovation, Courage, Faith” – means to him.

“To me, innovation is not only technology but also a mindset. Courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act even when we are full with fear. Faith means the most to me: faith in our allies, our troops and in our shared values, for which we do all what we can” – pointed out Major General László Antal.

“The only way for a multinational headquarters to function well is to have personnel who serve for each other, not just beside each other. This requires trust, which is born out of faith. The strength of our headquarters lies in our personnel” – this was how the Hungarian commander closed his ceremonial speech.

In his words of welcome, Lieutenant General Luis Sáez Rocandio, Commander, NATO Rapid Deployable Corps – Spain (COM NRDC-ESP) recalled that “HQ MND-C has continuously strengthened its regional leading role, increased its readiness and strengthened its commitment to collective defence in cooperation with NATO and the nations in the interest of a common goal: in service of Europe’s defence. Because this is what NATO is: an alliance of free nations united by shared values. And there can be no doubt that together we are stronger.”

“This ceremony is much more than an official handover of responsibility. It symbolizes the continuity of leadership, professionalism and our joint commitment to the values that connect all of us. Today is a reminder that leadership is not only authority, as it also involves responsibility and service” – this was how Major General Denis Tretinjak, Director of Staff, Croatian Armed Forces closed the series of welcome speeches.

At the end of the event, Lieutenant General Zoltán Mihócza, Deputy Chief (Territorial Defence), HDF Defence Staff presented Major General Tibor Králik for his service with the “Alliance Honorary Medal”, while Major General Denis Tretinjak presented him with the Gold Grade of the Officer’s Service Medal of the Croatian Armed Forces.