Military exercises taking place near Garkalne this weekend
The 19th Combat Support Battalion: A Versatile Force for Disaster Relief and Firefighting
The 19th Combat Support Battalion, a key component of the Latvian National Guard, stands as a unique force with a dual capacity. Primarily designed for combat support functions, this unit also offers vital contributions to civil protection, particularly in disaster relief and firefighting.
Based within the National Guard, the 19th Combat Support Battalion supports the 1st Riga Brigade and its subordinate units. Its operational focus lies within the 1st Riga Brigade's area of responsibility. The battalion's structure comprises a Support Company, a Medical Company, an Escort and Patrol Company, and a Medium Transport Company.
In the realm of disaster relief and firefighting, the battalion plays a crucial role by:
- Supporting firefighting operations with trained personnel and equipment, helping to control and extinguish fires that may threaten communities or military installations.
- Assisting in emergency response during floods, storms, or other natural disasters, often coordinating with civil defense and emergency services.
- Providing logistical and technical support to ensure efficient relief efforts, including securing affected areas, managing communications, and maintaining operational readiness.
The battalion's unique firefighting team is based on the BV 206 tracked transporter, enabling rapid deployment and response to emergencies. Beyond traditional military tasks, the battalion also supports state and local government institutions in searching for missing persons.
The 19th Combat Support Battalion maintains constant combat readiness and is prepared to move military transport in the Garkalne and Suži areas when required. After exercises, the training sites will be cleaned up to ensure the environment remains undisturbed.
In times of peace, the battalion's responsibilities extend beyond military support to include supply, transport, convoy security, escort, medical assistance, and logistical support. The battalion's subordinate units receive support from the battalion in various matters, ensuring effective and efficient operations in all circumstances.
The 19th Combat Support Battalion's multi-role capability underscores its importance in both national defense and civil security frameworks in Latvia, reflecting the National Guard’s broader mandate to safeguard the country and support civil authorities as needed.
For more granular details such as exact unit size, subunits, or equipment, I recommend consulting official Latvian National Guard or Ministry of Defence publications.
- The 19th Combat Support Battalion collaborates with civil defense and emergency services to offer assistance in states of emergency, including transportation of resources during floods, storms, or other natural disasters.
- Beyond traditional military tasks, the 19th Combat Support Battalion supports local government institutions in various sectors, notably in finance, by providing logistical support for missions such as searching for missing persons.
