German Military Force - Brigadier General Krone now heads up the special forces unit.
The German Commando Special Forces (KSK) of the German army, Bundeswehr, have recently appointed a new commander. Brigadier-General Alexander Krone has now taken over the leadership of this elite unit, replacing Brigadier-General Ansgar Meyer. The change of command took place in Calw, Baden-Württemberg, which was confirmed by a spokesperson.
The KSK has five main tasks: rescuing German hostages overseas, combatting high-value targets of strategic or operational importance, capturing key suspects, supporting selected foreign special forces, and acquiring crucial information for commanders at the strategic and operational level.
On Tuesday, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) honored several Bundeswehr soldiers with the Bravery Decoration. Two of the recipients were from KSK. While on a hazardous raid operation in northern Afghanistan in October 2012, these soldiers are said to have played a significant role in the mission's success, despite being at great personal risk. An officer was recognized for "exceptional leadership from the front," as he managed to prevent enemy encirclement and lead the mission to a triumphant conclusion, even under fire.
A non-commissioned officer, who was serving as a convoy commander at the center of the attack, displayed tremendous vigor and determination during the critical phases of enemy counterattacks. He received praise for his "exemplary bravery" and "unyielding resolve in urban and house-to-house combat."
The main objective of Operation "Mah Taabi" ("Moonlight") was, in the words of the Bundeswehr, to arrest and detain multiple wanted individuals, who were also suspected of plotting a harmful ambush on a German patrol in 2011. Due to the intense opposition of the Taliban, a lengthy gunfight ensued. This operation holds great significance for the KSK as it is one of their most intense and dangerous missions ever undertaken.
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- Brigadier-General Krone hails from Baden-Württemberg, the same region where the KSK soldiers are often trained and deployed.
- The new commander of the KSK, Brigadier-General Krone, will utilize the unit's special power in defending Germany and its interests, working closely with the German Armed Forces based in Berlin.
- During his tenure, Brigadier-General Krone will oversee various operations, such as the recent Operation "Mah Taabi" in Afghanistan, which showcased the KSK's unique capabilities.
- The change in KSK leadership was recognized as a significant event in Berlin, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius publicly honoring KSK soldiers for their bravery.
- The KSK soldiers of the Bundeswehr, led by Brigadier-General Krone, are committed to maintaining Germany's national security and upholding the values of the German Armed Forces, both at home and abroad.
