NATO allies make a historic splash while working as a team

The quiet water changed into chaos as the military vehicles drove into the river. Soldiers carefully
maneuvered the Stryker combat vehicles across the newly-built bridge to shore.

Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, … (1) …, joined their Hungarian military
counterparts while participating in a wet gap crossing of the Moson-Danube River, during the
combined training exercise Dragoon Crossing in Gyor, Hungary.

The success of the exercise was a result of the hours of combined effort and planning on the part of
both the American and Hungarian allies involved. The exercise provided the soldiers from both
nations with ... (2) ... and strengthen camaraderie with their fellow allies.

"It's wonderful to be here today, to witness the success of this exercise first-hand," said Colleen Bell,
the United States Ambassador to Hungary. "This exercise is very important to our alliance, because
… (3) … to work together to improve our interoperability and capabilities."

The historic gap crossing was the first river crossing among American and European allies to take
place since 1945. It was the final event of the weeklong Dragoon Crossing exercise, ... (4) ..., and
consisted of military training exercises designed to demonstrate freedom of movement across the
allied borders.

"This exercise highlights the growth in the capabilities of our NATO partnership," said Brig. Gen.
Timothy J. Daugherty, deputy commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division. "Today demonstrates
the outstanding capabilities of our NATO partners and the Hungarian military."

The event also contributed to ... (5) ... between American soldiers and military personnel of their
European counterparts, building strong bonds among friends working together to ensure the peace
and stability of the region.

As the Strykers moved on, heading to their next mission, the water stilled, showing no signs of the
chaos moments before. While there was no noticeable indication … (6) … here, the allied soldiers'
newfound friendships and understanding echoed in the hearts and minds of all involved.

... A ... it was sent from the US

... B ... which began Sept. 13

... C ... that the exercise had just taken place

... D ... it allows all involved soldiers

... E ... the strengthening of the alliance

... F ... an opportunity to enhance NATO interoperability

... G ... currently stationed in Vilseck, Germany

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