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ULM, Germany - The Joint Support and Enabling Command (JSEC) recently hosted the annual "Day of Nations" event at the Wilhelmsburg Barracks in Ulm. This vibrant occasion brought together JSEC and Multinational Joint Headquarters (MNJHQ) staff members from almost 30 nations, their families, and friends in a celebration of cultural diversity and unity.

The atmosphere was festive as attendees were welcomed with an array of colorful food stands, each offering culinary delights from different corners of the globe. From Spanish paella and French cheese to Turkish delicacies and American barbecue, the event highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the participating nations. Attendees were also treated to specialties from NATO's newest members, Finland and Sweden, adding a delightful new dimension to the culinary diversity.

It is great to have you all here today. I wish us all a wonderful afternoon with great music by the JSEC House Band. Enjoy the day!

Lieutenant General Alexander Sollfrank, Commander of JSEC and Multinational Joint Headquarters set the tone for the day with his opening speech. (Photo: OF-2 Simon Hofmann)

The JSEC House Band consists of musicians from JSEC and MNJHQ, they provided musical accompaniment and a good atmosphere on the Day of Nations. (Photo: OF-2 Simon Hofmann)

Lieutenant General Alexander Sollfrank, JSEC and MNJHQ Commander, set the tone for the day with his welcoming speech. "It is great to have you all here today. I wish us all a wonderful afternoon with great music by the JSEC House Band. Enjoy the day!" said the General. 

Adding to the festive spirit, a Turkish folk dance performance captivated the audience, showcasing rich cultural traditions and vibrant costumes. The rhythmic movements and lively music offered a glimpse into the country's heritage and added an extra layer of cultural exchange to the event. Additionally, the unique sound of a bagpipe player filled the air.

Children enjoyed a variety of fun activities, from face painting to interactive games, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages. "This event is a testament to the strength of our multinational team," added a member of the Event Planning Team. "It shows that, despite our different backgrounds, the JSEC family is one team."

National delicacies could be sampled at each nation's stand, while the children had a lot of fun with various games. A highlight was certainly the Turkish folklore dance performance. 

(Photos: OF-2 Simon Hofmann)

In addition to a real bagpipe player and the various delicacies from the nations, the focus was of course on camaraderie and friendship. (Photos: OF-2 Simon Hofmann)

The Spirit of JSEC

The Day of Nations is more than just a celebration; it is a powerful symbol of the unity and diversity that underpins the spirit of JSEC. It underscores the importance of cultural exchange and mutual respect in building a cohesive and effective multinational team.