The Change of Command ceremony at NATO CIS Group is a formal military tradition that marks the transition of leadership from one commanding officer to another. This ceremony is significant as it symbolizes continuity of command, reflects the unit’s heritage and traditions, and reaffirms the authority and responsibility of the incoming commander.
The ceremony began with the formation of troops consisting of NCISG personnel, representatives from NATO member nations, dignitaries and invited quests.
NCISG personnel during the Change of Command ceremony, 19
April 2024, Mons, Belgium.
Distinguished quests, including Lieutenant General Hubert Cottereau, SHAPE VCOS; Major General Raimundo Roca; SHAPE DCOS Support; Major General Gunnstein Bruasdal, SHAPE DCOS PD; Major General Hans Folmer, NCIA COS and former NCISG DCOM/COS, Major General John Phillips USEUCOM J-6, and other senior military officials, government representatives, and foreign diplomats were formally welcomed upon their arrival at the ceremony venue.
One of the central moments of the Change of Command ceremony was the passing of the unit colors, which symbolizes the transfer of command authority from the outgoing Commander, Major General Frank Schlösser to the incoming Commander, Major General Jürgen Brötz. The colors, representing the unit’s history, achievements, and traditions, were carefully transferred in a ceremonial manner.