Description
Operation Atlantic Resolve, though not a “named” operation, refers to ongoing efforts in response to Russian operations in Ukraine; mainly the War in Donbass. It is funded under the European Deterrence Initiative. In the wake of Russia’s 2014 intervention in Ukraine, the U.S. took several immediate steps to enhance the deterrence posture along the eastern flank of NATO, including augmenting the air, ground and naval presence in the region, and enhancing previously scheduled exercises. The U.S. is taking measures to enhance NATO military plans and defense capabilities and remains committed to maintaining a persistent presence in Central Europe and Eastern Europe. Atlantic Resolve rotations are overseen by a regionally aligned headquarters there.
On April 30, 2014 United States Army and Air Force military members were sent to Poland and the Baltic States of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia to conduct military exercises with partner nations in an immediate response to Russian illegal annexation of the Crimean Peninsula on March 18, 2014. This was on done on a bilateral basis, not as part of a larger NATO action. The force consisted of four companies of approximately: 150 soldiers from the 173rd BCT out of Vicenza, Italy and supporting Air Force JTACs from the 2nd ASOS out of Vilseck, Germany. Troops were transported with assistance from the USAF 37th Airlift Squadron based out of Ramstein, Germany. The four companies were rotated out every ninety days through the end of 2014 when a more formal version of Operation Atlantic Resolve was put into place.
As of January 2017, there are 3,500 troops. They initially gathered first in Poland, before spreading out across seven countries from Estonia to Bulgaria. The brigade is headquartered in Germany. An armored brigade will constantly rotate deployment every nine months.
Minted in nickel and given antique brass finish, this coin is imbued with bold colorful enamel on both sides.
This coin measures 1 3/4 inch (44mm) in diameter.
This is a surplus NWTM item. Packaging may vary.