Remarks at the Visit to Hungarian Special Forces in Szolnok

Ambassador Bell delivers her remarks, to her left is Minister of Defense Csaba Hende. (photo courtesy of Mária Krasznai-Nehrebeczky/Ministry of Defense)
Ambassador Bell delivers her remarks, to her left is Minister of Defense Csaba Hende.

The development of the Hungarian Special Forces has been remarkable. Hungary started with no Special Forces in 2005, and by 2013 was able to provide command and control for special operations from 5 different nations – including the U.S. – who were conducting important operations across 4 regions within Afghanistan.

Hungarian Special Forces have served with honor and distinction in some of the most challenging places in the world. The United States has been proud to serve shoulder-to-shoulder with Hungarian special operations forces.

The United States is a proud ally of Hungary in the development of its Special Forces capabilities, which not only build increasing interoperability within NATO, but also contribute directly to Hungary’s national defense capabilities.

Hungary should be very proud of their ‘quiet professionals.’ But I hope that appreciation for their accomplishments will not stay quiet – all Hungarians should know about and feel great pride in the way that their Special Operations soldiers have represented them, showcasing the strength, intelligence, and resiliency of the Hungarian people.