The meeting with the cadets focused on training matters, the tasks and challenges facing National Reserve Forces soldiers, procedures for being called up for National Reserve Forces service after completing training, and the opportunities that the Black Division offers National Reserve Forces soldiers for professional development and the path to professional military service. The commander of the 23rd Artillery Regiment, Col. Paweł Świtalski, who is also the commandant of the Preparatory Service Training Center, also took part in the meeting.
Maj. Gen. Jarosław Mika:
I know from reports by your superiors that you have shown great commitment in your service so far. I am also pleased by your strong and sincere motivation to serve. I know that the basic training period you are completing is difficult for many of you and often requires changing your previous habits. It is a test of strength of character and physical and mental resilience. The challenges facing soldiers today require good preparation, professionalism, availability and commitment in carrying out daily tasks. However, this effort will pay off, because successfully completing the training and final examinations will open the way to future service in the ranks of the Black Division’s soldiers.
Most of you are expected to serve in units of the 11th Armored Cavalry Division. I have high expectations of the soldiers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Division, but as you consider future service in our ranks, you must be aware that this opportunity will be available only to those who meet specific criteria. There is no room for mediocrity in the division. Service is not easy, but it brings great satisfaction.
General Mika spoke about the development plans of the units making up the Black Division, opportunities for future service and the expectations placed on soldiers. He then invited the preparatory service cadets to ask questions and answered inquiries about the conditions of service in the individual units of the 11th Armored Cavalry Division. Particular interest was generated by the requirements for soldiers in specialist positions in the armored cavalry brigades.
Detailed answers to these questions were provided by the head of the Personnel Division of the 11th Armored Cavalry Division, Lt. Col. Piotr Kaczmarek. The division’s G-1 chief discussed the assignment of crisis appointments, the performance of duties within the National Reserve Forces and the procedures for being called up for service, emphasizing that preparatory service is a genuine gateway to professional military service. He then explained the rules for rotational exercises, the procedures for qualification for professional military service and the opportunities to serve in units of the 11th Armored Cavalry Division.
The meeting and direct contact with the division commander provided an opportunity to discuss various aspects of preparatory training for the National Reserve Forces, which the cadets will complete on December 23 of this year.
Capt. Remigiusz Kwieciński