The conference, hosted by Allied Command Operations (ACO) CSEL Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Siim Saliste, Allied Command Transformation (ACT) CSEL Sergeant Major Tibor Bogdán and United States European Command (EUCOM) CSEL Chief Master Sergeant Phillip Easton, welcomed senior enlisted leaders from around the globe for a week of learning and networking.

"This is an incredibly unique opportunity, unlike anything else in the world, where so many CSEL's from so many nations and backgrounds can come together in a common space, meet, learn and share each other's experiences," said CSM Saliste. "The significance of this conference cannot be understated, and our hope is that each and every leader here can take some valuable lessons back to their own nations or organisations."

More than eighty senior enlisted leaders from Allied and partner nations arrived in Belgium where the conference was held for the first time in its now 18-year history. Conference participants attended briefings covering a wide range of topics from the current missions and operations in today's security environment to the recent withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.

"Despite the setbacks we faced last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's ICC has turned out to be safe and successful," said Sergeant Major Bogdan. "None of the events would have been possible without the support of our respective commands and a special thanks should be extended to our own admin teams, staff and the SHAPE International NCO Group."

Distinguished guest speakers for the conference included Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Tod D. Wolters among various high-level leaders within the ACO and broader NATO community.

"It's truly an honour to get all these great leaders together in one place, but now the most critical challenge is taking these lessons learned, these shared experiences, and applying them to those that matter most, our troops," said Chief Master Sergeant Easton.

The conference concluded with wrap-up briefings and a certificate presentation for each attendee as well as recognition for the coordinating staff. To learn more about the ACO CSEL community visit:

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