WILLEMSTAD - In a ceremony held yesterday morning, the “Company in the West” transferred its duties to the new unit, Rotation 47, under the command of Major Jan from the 13th Infantry Battalion in Assen. Major Jan took over from Captain Jeffrey, who, along with his team, completed an intensive period of service across Curaçao, Bonaire, and Aruba.
The Company in the West is a permanent Royal Netherlands Army unit strategically stationed in the Caribbean and operates under the command of the Caribbean Naval Command. This unit remains on standby year-round, rotating personnel every four months. Each rotation involves a new company from the Netherlands taking over from the previous one, ensuring the unit is constantly available for deployment in the Caribbean while maintaining operational efficiency and mental resilience.
Each new rotation often brings specific skills and expertise, depending on the incoming unit. For example, certain units specialize in rescue operations, local authority support, and emergency response during natural disasters, while the current Delta Company is equipped to operate with heavy weapons and vehicles. This rotation approach allows the Company in the West to provide the Caribbean military and local authorities with a broad range of military skills and resources.
The rotation process includes an official handover and an orientation period, during which the incoming company is briefed on ongoing operations, local partnerships, and specific challenges in the Caribbean. This system ensures the Company in the West remains prepared for rapid response in emergencies and can continuously contribute to the region’s security and stability.
‘A Learning Experience’
Reflecting on his time in the Caribbean, Captain Jeffrey described the experience as valuable, marked by multiple missions and training exercises. His unit was on standby during floods in Curaçao and supported various charitable initiatives in Bonaire. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command was also deployed multiple times to clear explosives and conduct joint training sessions with local partners. Additionally, the unit underwent demanding training exercises in tropical conditions, working closely with Curaçao’s military forces. “We always felt welcomed and look back on this time positively,” said Captain Jeffrey.
Looking ahead, the new commander, Major Jan, anticipates a productive four months as the Delta "DJOKJA" Company—a unit of the Red Berets—trains with its specialized vehicles in the Caribbean. He emphasized that this collaboration is invaluable, both for the unique capabilities that Delta Company brings to the region and for the opportunity to train in a tropical climate. “I expect this to be a unique experience, and we look forward to building a meaningful partnership with our local colleagues,” Major Jan stated.