Working alongside their Mongolian Armed Forces counterparts, the 125th Finance Battalion leads operations from U.N. training lanes, medical support, logistical support, contracting, and everything in between to keep the exercise running smoothly.
Before the exercise started, they deployed the Early Entry Team to manage payment systems, oversee local contracting, and establish a Limited Depositary Account with the Khaan Bank of Mongolia. The 125th ensured mission success behind the scenes while reinforcing critical logistics partnerships in Mongolia.
“This isn’t just training, it’s command post operations,” said Maj. Dan Beekman, the executive officer of the 125th Finance Battalion. “We’re facilitating mission execution, logistic support, and personnel accountability alongside our Mongolian Armed Forces counterparts.”
The battalion’s Early Entry Team was the first finance element in Mongolia linking up with the Mongolian Armed Forces, establishing the initial command post, and receiving advance personnel. Their presence laid the groundwork for follow-on operations, including interpreter and transportation contracts awarded before the main exercise started.
Rather than rely solely on U.S.-sourced equipment and support, the 125th is helping rehearse logistics by contracting local services. This model prepares the force for real-world scenarios where supplies must be procured west of the International Date Line at the point of need.
“When you don’t have time or freedom of movement to resupply, being able to procure goods and services locally enables forward commanders to maintain their operational tempo and extend their operational reach,” said Lt. Col. Jeremy Eckel, commander of the 125th Finance Battalion.
Khaan Quest is an annual, multinational and multicomponent training exercise led by the MAF designed to promote regional peace and security.
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