År 2006
År 2006
16 - 27 February 2006
The year 2006 commemorates the 33rd year of a valuable winter training exchange program between the Minnesota National Guard and Norway's Home Guard. This "Partners for Peace" exchange program was developed in 1974 and continues to be an invaluable training program bringing two strong NATO allies together to exchange military and cultural experiences. It is the longest running National Guard/foreign troop exchange in existence. Approximately 105 Norwegian Home Guard Soldiers (male and female) will be participating in winter training at Camp Ripley, Minnesota while the same amount of Minnesota National Guard Soldiers travel to Vaernes, Norway for the rigorous training. Each group of Soldiers conduct winter training utilizing techniques and equipment respective to the other country while learning to bridge cultural differences and the ability to adapt to unique and different situations. The training is also a good tool in learning how to cooperate and experience each other's cultures.
Soldiers are trained to conduct most activities on skies. After being outfitted with the host country's winter clothing and gear, there are training classes on winter survival, movement to different areas on skies while carrying enough gear for yourself and your squad, and familiarization with tactical maneuvers. The Soldiers in both countries then go into "the field" to practice these techniques. Camp is made and then there are ski marches, compass courses, a night ski march and snow cave building (sleeping in them, too!). Both countries incorporate a "Biathlon" (ski and shoot) competition which is very sporting and there is much competition. There are awards given for top skiers and shooters as well as overall platoon awards.
(click on Winter Operations patch for Norwegian Home Guard photos)
Be a Host Family
February 24-26, 2006
"Buddy Weekend" was established as an
opportunity for the Soldiers to experience and enjoy traditional meals, family, and social
activities with a family of the host country. In the U.S. Buddy Weekend is scheduled for
February 24-26 2006. By sponsoring one or more Home Guard Soldiers you will be
participating in a unique and rewarding program of international exchange while forming
lasting friendships and experiences. On occasion this event has allowed relatives and
family friends an opportunity to visit. A "Farewell Banquet" is held at the end
of the exchange during which recognition is given to the true importance of this exchange
program. If you would like to sponsor one or more Home Guard Soldier(s), please contact
SSG Rebecca Thingvold at 320-632-7368, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m.
to 3:30 p.m. or e-mail at Personnel Community Activities Section Point of
Contact. You may also print the Host Family Application by clicking on the
"Velkommen" button below, filling it out, and them mail it to the address listed
on it. There are over 400,000 Minnesotans of Norwegian descent. That there is a connection
between Minnesota and Norway cannot be denied. And with the exchange between the
state's National Guard and the Norwegian Home Guard, it can only grow stronger!
(Click on "Velkommen" for Host Family Application)
This site last updated
11 January 2006