Colonel Jaroslav Krám appointed the new Commander of the Slovak Special Operations Forces

Col Jaroslav Krám has been appointed the new Commander of the Slovak Special Operations Forces (COM SVK SOF) with effect from 1 November 2022. Col Jaroslav Krám has officially assumed command of 5 Special Forces Regiment Žilina from Brig Gen Branislav Benka during today's change of command ceremony at the Žilina base – home to 5 Special Forces Regiment.

Also in attendance at the official change of command ceremony were Slovakia's top Defence officials – Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď, State Secretary Marian Majer, and Chief of Defence Gen Daniel Zmeko.

Speaking in front of the gathered audience, Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď said: “The Slovak Special Operations Forces under the leadership of Brig Gen Branislav Benka have confirmed their elite position in view of the complexity and success of their missions – for which I am grateful not only as the Minister of Defence, but also as a citizen of the Slovak Republic.”

As well as saying a sincere thank you to the outgoing commander for his leadership and service, Defence Minister Naď presented Brig Gen Branislav Benka with the Slovak Minister of Defence Plaque and the Slovak Armed Forces Honorary Badge 3rd Grade.

In his words addressed to the new commander, Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď said: “I am convinced there will be no let-up in high demands into the future. I trust Col Jaroslav Krám will build on the successes so far and will lead this unique team cohesively and resolutely forward to benefit the defence and security of the Slovak Republic.”

Commander of the Slovak Special Operations Forces Col Jaroslav Krám, who previously served as Deputy Commander of the Slovak Special Operations Forces (DCOM SVK SOF), has been a long-time member of 5 Special Forces Regiment Žilina.