01/31/2008. Remarks by Johan Visschedijk: "The Netherlands Army exercise "Atlantic Lion" took place in the Netherlands and Western Germany between September 17 and October 1, 1983, incorporating 24,000 men. Forces from the USA (11,000), Germany (5,000) and the UK (600) participated. The US troops, from the Army 1st Cavalry Division, were brought to Europe as part of the US exercise "Reforger 83" (Return Forces to Europe), it was the first time an US Army division was placed under Dutch command.

"Reforger" was an exercise held annually since 1964 to test the procedures for a speedy reinforcement of troops in Europe, in 1983 it were 17,000 men and part of their equipment. NATO air forces participated as part of their exercise "Cold Fire".

The pictured Alouette (Lark) was used by the exercise referees (hence the partly visible white cross just in front of the tail boom) and belonged to the Heeresfliegerstaffel 3 in Rotenburg/Wümme. Produced in 1957, it is presently preserved at the Helicoptermuseum at Bückeburg, Germany."