The 2nd Motorized Infantry Brigade “Stephen the Great” marked its 19th anniversary with a parade and combat demonstrations, Info-Prim Neo reports. “The Brigade's mission is to train conscripts to defend the motherland and educate the young generation of soldiers”, stated Col. Oleg Ciulcov, the Brigade's commander. Col. Ciulcov noted that it its 19 years of existence the Brigade's personnel has always helped in disaster relief efforts. All the accomplishments are due to the high professional training of the officer and sub-officer corps, he added. Attending the event, Defense Minister Vitalie Marinuta stated: “The National Army has always admirably fulfilled its duties towards the country. I note with regret that it is becoming increasingly difficult to serve in the National Army, for various reasons, including due to the austere budget, which thwarts growth and progress in the army. But despite these circumstances the officers and soldiers are doing a great job”. The Minister promised that he would promote the stagnating social projects for the army with a view to raising the pays and improving the living conditions of the military. The 2nd Motorized Infantry Brigade “Stephen the Great” was established on 16 October 1992 on the order of the Ministry of Defense.