Mackovac - A bridge is usually used to cross a river, but in this case, the Mackovac Bridge is also a symbol. It's a symbol of co-operation between different players: the Republika Srpska, the U.S. Engineers of the 2nd Battalion, the 43rd Combat Engineers Company, the 3rd Corps VRS (Republika Srpska Army), and the Russian engineers of the 1st PRSAB.
This bridge is also a sign of an economic revival in the county that is home to the little village of Lopare, inside the district of Brcko in MND-N. Located on a regional road, the bridge was partly destroyed during the war. Because it was too weak, it could only used by pedestrians and light vehicles. Only half of the bridge was useful, as the other half had fallen down and was now more dangerous.
The repair work took only eight days. A new bridge was built over the former one, and it can now withstand 20 tons of traffic. All kinds of vehicles can now cross the river and aid in the revival of the village.
It is not the first time that American and Russian engineers have worked together, and the bridge proves that co-operation is the best way to accomplish a mission.
"This bridge is the perfect example of what can be done when people want to work together," said Maj. Gen. Robert Halverson, commanding general of MND-N.
Other works are being planned for the future as SFOR further confirms its meaning of "stabilisation" in BiH -- troubles have gone and rebuilding continues.

Related links:
SFOR at Work
EAF professionalisation