Brunssum, The Netherlands – On November 21, Multinational
Corps Northeast (MNC NE) hosted the change of command ceremony as General
Guglielmo Luigi Miglietta, Commander Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum
(JFCBS), handed over leadership from German Lieutenant General Jürgen-Joachim
von Sandrart to Lieutenant General Dariusz Parylak from Poland.
NATO’s unity is our greatest strength. It is solidarity that illuminates our path forward.
Addressing attendees, General Miglietta lauded the outgoing commander, Lieutenant General von Sandrart, for his exemplary leadership during a period marked by unprecedented trials. "Under your guidance, Multinational Corps Northeast transformed into a frontline warfighting headquarters, capable of rapid and decisive action," COM JFCBS noted. He emphasized how von Sandrart’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the unfolding Russian aggression against Ukraine fortified NATO’s readiness and cohesion. "Joachim," General Miglietta continued, "your tenure was defined by strategic vision and unwavering dedication to our shared values. You navigated the Corps through times of uncertainty, ensuring it remained a cornerstone of NATO’s deterrence."
Von Sandrart echoed these sentiments in his farewell speech, reflecting on the Corps’ critical role as the "borderline of freedom" following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. "Together, we answered the call," he stated. "We did what we are best at: serving our Alliance, our countries, and our societies." His words sent a resolute message: "I clearly say this to Russia: Your time as an oppressor in this region is over! NATO will never allow Russia to attack our homeland and take away our freedom."
Welcoming the incoming commander, General Miglietta expressed confidence in Lieutenant General Parylak’s ability to build upon von Sandrart’s accomplishments. "Dariusz, your extensive experience has prepared you well for this challenge. You inherit a command that is robust and ready, and we trust you to lead with wisdom and resolve."
Throughout the ceremony, the recurring theme was NATO’s resilience and the importance of solidarity among its members. General Miglietta underscored this, emphasizing that "NATO’s unity is our greatest strength. It is solidarity that illuminates our path forward." He also thanked Poland for its vital role as the host nation and its unwavering commitment to collective defense.
Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz attended the event, further enhancing the significance of NATO’s Eastern Flank.
