NAPLES, Italy – Allied Joint Force Command Naples welcomed the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, U.S. Army General Curtis M. Scaparrotti, to the command headquarters, May 23, 2016.
"It’s a great pleasure to welcome General Scaparrotti to his first visit to JFC Naples,” said U.S. Navy Admiral Mark Ferguson, JFC Naples commander. "He is a proven leader in combat, brings great experience, and is a scholar and a gentleman in the very best sense of the word.”
Gen. Scaparrotti and Adm. Ferguson met with key JFC Naples staff members to discuss missions, operations, and exercises. During their briefs, the staff emphasized the role of JFC Naples with the NATO Response Force; the development of the NATO Force Structure; and also the way ahead to the NATO Warsaw Summit in July.
"Every one of us, from me right down to the newest member of this staff and the youngest member of this staff, has a responsibility to strengthen the alliance,” said Gen. Scaparrotti during a formation of the JFC Naples staff members. "I want to thank you for the work you do…I’m very impressed with the work you’re doing and we rely on you at SHAPE headquarters to be the experts.”
SACEUR provided his command guidance and philosophy to more than 700 JFC Naples staff members focusing on strengthening the alliance through enhanced readiness. He emphasized this through the importance of the personal and collective contributions of Allied Command Operation (ACO) members.
"I want you to look at the personal, human dimension of what you do because you are what makes the difference,” said Gen. Scaparrotti.
SACEUR additionally recognized one of the JFC Naples staff members, French Chief Warrant Officer Lionel Mélinard, for excelling and placing first in the international allied / partner category of the Croatian Armed Forces Best Soldier Competition.
"This is the greatest alliance in the world,” said Gen. Scaparrotti. "I am humbled to be the SACEUR - it’s a privilege to serve here and be among your ranks.”
Story and photos by Allied Joint Force Command Naples Public Affairs