The Republic of Fiji Military Forces and U.S. Soldiers supporting the Multinational Force and Observers peace-keeping mission in the Sinai, Egypt have combined forces to form a new battalion; MFO Battalion South.

The battalion operates several observation posts throughout the southern Sinai Peninsula. Additionally, the South Camp mission-command staff has begun full integration with American and Fijian counterparts working hand-in-hand to support the new battalion. The mission and the commitment to peacekeeping remains the same, but the dynamics of the organization have changed.

Coincidentally, this transition occurred as Fiji celebrated Infantry Day. This holiday, celebrated annually, marks the sacrifice of Fijian Cpl. Sefanaia Sukunaivalu, who selflessly gave his life while rescuing members of his platoon during a battle in the Solomon Islands during World War II. Sunkunaivalu was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military award in the Commonwealth, awarded for gallantry in the face of the enemy. By remembering Sukunaivalu's sacrifice, Fiji and their MFO counterparts acknowledge the cost of military service and rededicate themselves to their mission.

While Fiji celebrates this day annually, this year was unique due to the changing role of the contingent within the MFO. It gave the contingents, especially Fiji and the U.S., a chance to bond in their shared military experience and move ever closer to being a cohesive battalion.

On June 28., this cohesion was put to the test when South Camp conducted a mass casualty exercise. The responders included the American-manned South Camp Response Team, supplemented by Fijian counterparts. The squads worked well together, securing the site and evacuating the casualties. This exercise demonstrates the combined ability of the MFO Battalion South.

"It is an amazing experience to come together as team with Fijian battalion to ensure we continue to achieve mission success within the MFO," said U.S. Army Maj. Christopher Gilluly, operations officer for the new battalion.

"Opportunities such as these are what make an assignment with the MFO and Task Force Sinai an extraordinary opportunity."

The U.S battalion and Fijian Battalion look forward to working closer together in the future as they continue to operate as MFO Battalion South.