To all JFCBS personnel,
HQ JFCBS has implemented a comprehensive set of protective and preventative measures designed to limit the transmission of COVID-19 and mitigate the impact of the global pandemic. These measures have effectively protected the force and the JFCBS Mission. The low number of reported COVID-19 cases in the HQs is testament to our collective efforts and disciplined approach in sustaining and complying with all of the protective measures.
We are now entering a critical period, including the rollout of vaccinations and, ultimately, a relaxation of restrictive practices. Vaccines train our immune systems to fight disease without making us sick. Although several COVID-19 vaccines on different platforms (mRNA, viral vector) have been approved in Europe, there is still a lengthy distribution process to all of those in need. While the main effort is to focus on the delivery and distribution of vaccinations through national means, we must continue to commit and comply with all of the pre-existing preventative measures until population-level herd immunity is achieved. On behalf of the HQs, Captain (N) Henk Zwier (Commander BSG) maintains regular and robust contact with our Host Nation's Defence Staff and Support Command group, particularly focusing on the rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations to our personnel (and dependants) living in the Netherlands. Captain Zwier is our HQs point of contact for host nation-related issues vis-a-vis COVID. For now, we must continue wearing masks, physically distancing, avoiding crowds, and taking a disciplined approach to our personal lives.
Thank-you for your commitment to the mitigations measures to date. Your discipline has made a difference in these difficult and unpredictable times. We are all adapting as the situation evolves but remember, although this ‘new normal’ is challenging, none of us is alone. We will move forward and overcome the pandemic together. Nonetheless, we must continue to protect and preserve our operational capability in a COVID-19 environment. Your contribution to keeping our HQs, and our families safe, remains of utmost importance. Don’t drop the baton now! Stay alert, control the virus. The path to recovery is emerging, but we must remain vigilant.
Story by Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum Public Affairs Office