Col Peter Nielsen handed over command to Col Merlijn Heiligers, the unit’s first Dutch leader - Lithuania
Col Peter Nielsen handed over command to Col Merlijn Heiligers, the unit’s first Dutch leader
As the end of the NATO Force Integration Unit Lithuania change of command ceremony was greeted by a spectacular flyby of Polish F-16 jets, currently deployed as part of NATO’s air policing mission, Ambassador Jack Twiss Quarles van Ufford and Defence Attaché LtCol Laine Den Hollander witnessed as Col Peter Nielsen handed over command to Col Merlijn Heiligers, the unit’s first Dutch leader. This moment marked an important transition, showing both continuity and the promise of new leadership.
During his time in charge, Colonel Nielsen showed strong leadership,
helping to improve cooperation among different nations and
strengthening the relationship between NATO and the host country. His
efforts helped boost regional readiness and brought the alliance
closer together.
Now, Colonel Heiligers steps in, bringing a
solid background in logistics, mobility, and strategic planning. His
experience makes him well-suited to continue building on what’s been
achieved and to guide NFIU Lithuania through its next important
phase—supporting NATO’s rapid deployment and readiness efforts.
We sincerely thank Colonel Nielsen for his great service, and
we’re excited to see the unit move forward under Colonel Heiligers’
leadership, continuing its important work for regional security.
