Brunssum, the Netherlands – On Wednesday 1 st of May, Commander of Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS) , General Riccardo Marchiò, received a gift in the form of a painting from the Mayor of Brunssum, Gerd Leers, to celebrate NATO’s 70 th anniversary. The painting commemorates the friendly relationship between JFCBS and the city of Brunssum.
The painting presented to General Marchiò from Mayor Leers is a digital reproduction by Ron Slangen of an original mural by Bert van Reymersdal in 1946, which is located in the mine shafts under the base of the JFCBS Headquarters. The mural depicts miners at work - cautioning young miners in training to act with safety in mind and to work professionally.
Mayor Leers praised the close relationship between JFCBS and the city of Brunssum, which has been ongoing for more than 52 years. It is a relationship which has become more than just hosting NATO, turning into a relationship which has become more akin to neighbours, family and friends - or as Mayor Leers also described it: "A good neighbour is better than a distant friend”.
General Marchiò thanked the city of Brunssum and Mayor Leers both for the generous gift of the painting and for the warm relationship between JFCBS and the city of Brunssum. He thanked the city of Brunssum for having opened their hearts to NATO and its people, and described the gratitude that JFCBS has, of being part of the Brunssum community.
Story by JFCBS Public Affairs Office