With taking the stage, Major General Brötz, the new Commander of NATO CIS Group (NCISG), introduce with emphasis the importance of communication and information systems in modern defense strategies. General said:
Today, we honor those who have gone above and beyond in their service, ensuring the seamless flow of information and communication within NATO
The Commander underlined the rapid deployment of secure communication networks in response to emerging threats and the development of cutting-edge cybersecurity measures.
After the opening remarks, five NCISG HQ staff members were recognized with the NCISG Individual Recognition Award, as follows:
- OF-4 Neil Scott – EXO DCOS Cyber,
- OF-4 Pasquale Communara – DCOM/COS Front Office,
- OF-4 Kenneth Hyle – LEGAD,
- OF-3 Marco Varratta – Cyberspace Management Office,
- OR-8 Michael Clobes – Command Group.
Commander (Royal Navy) Neil Scott was decorated for his excellent service at the interface between SHAPE J6 Cyberspace, the NCISG, the CyOC and the SHAPE Command Group. He had to keep track of a broad variety of different tasks from different entities, ensuring their timely completion and the proper coordination with all relevant stakeholders at highest standards.
Individual Recognition Award ceremony, 3 June 2024, from left: Major General Jürgen Brötz, Commander NCISG; Commander (Royal Navy) Neil Scott.
Lieutenant Colonel Pasquale Communara was honored for his exceptional services during a period of critical conceptual, operational and organizational development. He demonstrated outstanding energy and commitment in the development and delivery of all tasks assigned to him.
Individual Recognition Award ceremony, 3 June 2024, from left: Major General Jürgen Brötz, Commander NCISG; Lieutenant Colonel Pasquale Communara.
Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Hyle was honored for his exceptional expertise in providing legal advice to the Director, SHAPE CyOC and his staff. Lieutenant Colonel Hyle participated in the drafting of key procedural documents for both offensive and defensive cyberspace operations, ensuring a sound legal basis for NATO’s activities in this key and developing area. He additionally participated in NATO cyber exercises testing to validate these new procedures.
Individual Recognition Award ceremony, 3 June 2024, from left: Major General Jürgen Brötz, Commander NCISG; Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Hyle.
Major Marco Varratta received the individual recognition award for showing huge interest in widening his scope from his former J3 perspective into a demanding environment at the strategic level connecting NCISG and SHAPE. He achieved to develop, maintain and exercise a wide range of understanding on complex NATO issues, touching not only NCISG’s, but also SHAPE’s policy, planning and strategic representation. Major Varratta showed great emphasis on “getting the job done”, showing leadership with the team and never letting anyone down.
Individual Recognition Award ceremony, 3 June 2024, from left: Major General Jürgen Brötz, Commander NCISG; Major Marco Varratta.
An individual recognition award was also given to Staff Sergeant Michael Clobes, who consistently delivered outstanding results whilst working within the NCISG as a stalwart in the 1* Command Group Team. His depth of knowledge and high levels of experience were instrumental in the organization of several key events including the Commanders Conference.
Individual Recognition Award ceremony, 3 June 2024, from left: Major General Jürgen Brötz, Commander NCISG; Staff Sergeant Michael Clobes.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from General Brötz, who expressed his gratitude to all members of the NCISG for their unwavering commitment and a group photo.
Individual Recognition Award ceremony, 3 June 2024, group photo.
The Commander closed with the following words addressing the attendees on behalf of the whole NCISG staff:
Our strength lies in our unity and our ability to adapt to new challenges. Today’s awards reflect the excellence we strive for every day