Source: United States Spaceforce
The Air Force is partnering with the Defense Innovation Unit to leverage DIU’s expertise in rapidly prototyping and fielding commercial technologies. This partnership is crucial for developing next-generation capabilities that will inform the future of the MQ-9 Reaper fleet.
Source: United States Spaceforce
The USAFE-AFAFRICA Five Star Brass Band performed for U.S. Embassy Budapest’s Freedom 250 celebrations, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, connecting Hungarians with U.S. Airmen through music, education and diplomacy.
Source: United States Spaceforce
The Kaiserslautern Military Community sets off fireworks during Freedom Fest at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, July 4, 2026. The two-day fest brought together service members and families from the KMC in a shared celebration of partnership and 250 years of American independence. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joseph Curzi)
Source: United States Spaceforce
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to Headquarters Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs, the 15th Wing, and the 137th Intelligence Squadron march behind the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam honor guard during an Independence Day parade in Kailua, Hawaii, July 4, 2026.
Source: United States Spaceforce
The 85th TES deployed the F-15EX Eagle II to Japan’s Kadena AB to train with the 18th Wing and test human-machine teaming with an uncrewed MQ-28 Ghost Bat, advancing Defense of War’s lethality goals in the Indo-Pacific.
Source: United States Army
CHIEVRES AIR BASE, Belgium – U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Benelux marked a new chapter in its history July 8, 2026, as Col. Patrick Hofmann relinquished command to Col. Peter Young during a change of command ceremony at Chièvres Air Base, Belgium.
Wes Leisinger, Installation Management Command – Europe (IMCOM-E) chief of staff, presided over the event, officiating on behalf of Tommy R. Mize, IMCOM-E director. Leisinger mentioned some of USAG Benelux challenges and its mission since the garrison includes four different communities in three different countries.
Leisinger spoke about the responsibilities of the garrison in the region and how it supports various key headquarters and organizations. Highlighted were the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, Allied Joint Forces Command Brunssum and the four APS sites located in Zutendaal, Belgium; Eygelshoven and Brunssum, The Netherlands and Dülmen, Germany.
“Leading an organization responsible for integrating and delivering exceptional BASEOPS services to these key units across this diverse, multinational, geographically dispersed footprint, requires the kind of commander who can work effectively with mission partners, host nation collaborators, and a wide range of military organizations,” he said.
Leisinger commented on the garrison’s accomplishments under Hofmann’s leadership, including support to mission partners and higher headquarters alike, managing his people while serving his community, working on complex, multimillion dollar projects such as the construction of Army Family Housing
“Col. Hofmann’s visionary leadership, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to Soldiers, Families, and Civilians significantly enhanced readiness, strengthened multinational partnerships, and improved quality of life across the Benelux footprint.” Leisinger said. “During his tenure, COL Hofmann has led the way forward on several complex, multimillion dollar projects.”
Hofmann expressed how honored he feels to have served as commander of USAG Benelux and how proud, grateful and humbled he feels to be surrounded with people that make the organization so exceptional.
“And we know why we’re here,” Hofmann said. “Everything we do is grounded in shared values, shared history, and a shared future that connects our American teammates with our Belgian, Dutch, and German partners in ways that are both historic and deeply personal.”
Hofmann’s next assignment will be Director G 3/5/7 Installation Management Command, San Antonio, TX
The official transfer of authority was captured in the traditional passing of the garrison colors. USAG Benelux 1st Sgt. Adam Ustunda first passed the colors to Hofmann, who then handed them to Leisinger, signifying the official conclusion of his command. Leisinger then entrusted the colors to Young, charging him with the responsibility of the garrison and marking the official beginning of his tenure as commander.
Young brings a wealth of diverse leadership experience to the Benelux. His career began as an enlisted Soldier before he attended the United States Military Academy and commissioned into the Engineer Corps in 2003. His combat experience includes deployments to Operation Iraqi Freedom before he transitioned to the Special Forces branch, deploying twice more in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Most recently, he commanded the 1st Battalion, 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado
Leisinger mentioned some of Young’s accomplishments and spoke directly to him in his remarks.
“Col. Young, we’re glad to have you with us on the IMCOM-Europe team,” Leisinger said. “This is both an exciting and challenging time to join us here in Europe, a time when we are called to continue to care for our people by providing them world-class services and reliable infrastructure needed to enhance USAEUR-AF’s readiness.”
Young spoke about how he feels deeply honored to pick up the mantle of garrison commander and expressed his gratitude to Hofmann for the transition.
“You are truly the very best our Army has to offer, and I’ve observed pride and commitment in your work over my past two weeks of transition, and over the past year reading the SITREPs,” Young said. “I’m looking forward to serving alongside you, the people who make it all possible, as we begin this next chapter of our Benelux Garrison’s distinguished history as we transform challenges into opportunities and deliver on behalf of the Soldiers, Civilians, Families, and Retirees that depend on us.”
Source: United States Army
CHON BURI PROVINCE, Thailand – Mechanics and logisticians with the Washington National Guard wrapped up a three-week maintenance and logistics exchange with the Royal Thai Army in Ko Chan District on May 30. The bilateral exchange sought to improve the performance and longevity of Thailand’s armored vehicle fleet.
National Guard instructors teamed up with their Royal Thai Army counterparts to develop and deliver the dual-track curriculum. The training program included a two-week Stryker and wheeled vehicle maintenance course, followed by a one-week sustainment and logistics management seminar in Ko Chan District. The training produced 19 graduates from the 11th Maintenance Support Battalion and Forward Support Companies 1 and 2.
The exchange separated participants into maintenance and management courses to address the host nation’s priority sustainment gaps. During the initial two-week technical block, Thai mechanics conducted intensive, hands-on troubleshooting on operational vehicles. Training focused on safety procedures, power pack removals, C7 valve calibration, engine diagnostics, suspension arm replacement and overhaul.
To support the Royal Thai Army’s ongoing modernization, instructors added instruction on operating, maintaining and calibrating Common Remotely Operated Weapon Stations, or CROWS, and integrated vehicle sensor systems.
While mechanics turned wrenches during the first two weeks, the final week focused on logistics management, sustainment systems and processes. Classroom discussions and practical exercises helped Royal Thai Army leaders learn to identify, document and track vehicle faults; refine internal maintenance work order flow; forecast requirements for Class III petroleum and Class IX repair parts; manage battery charging and lifecycle programs; and coordinate parts and state-of-the-fleet maintenance reviews.
“During my first iteration of leading the execution of a Stryker Leader Course in July 2023, I had many questions about how the relatively new 112th Stryker Regiment Combat Team conducted maintenance operations of the Stryker fleet,” said U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Ricky Thomas, Combined Support Maintenance Shop superintendent with the Washington National Guard. “I discovered that the RTA performed PMCS differently than we did in the U.S. Army.”
The decision to send specialized maintenance teams to Thailand grew out of observations during a July 2023 training rotation. While supporting a separate leadership course, Washington Guard subject-matter experts noted that the newly formed 112th Stryker Regiment Combat Team relied heavily on civilian contractors and managed fleet maintenance differently from standard U.S. Army formations.
A follow-on assessment in September 2024 by Washington Guardsmen identified a shortage of school-trained maintainers across the regiment’s organic support units. At the time, one forward support company was responsible for maintaining the regiment’s vehicles with only 15 mechanics. Just one, a company-grade officer, held formal maintenance school training.
Royal Thai Army leaders requested focused maintenance and logistics training to close those gaps. Working through the State Partnership Program and the Joint U.S. Military Advisory Group, Thailand, the Washington National Guard mobilized surface maintenance experts to help establish a locally run training pipeline.
The May graduating class represents the fourth iteration of the technical maintenance course and the third run of the logistics management seminar held in Thailand.
Backed by decades of cooperation under the Joint U.S. Military Advisory Group, Thailand, the latest course iteration strengthens an enduring alliance and helps keep both forces ready to respond to regional security requirements.
Related Links
The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil
State Partnership Program | NationalGuard.mil
The National Guard on Facebook | Facebook.com/TheNationalGuard
The National Guard on Flickr | Flickr.com/TheNationalGuard
The National Guard on Instagram | Instagram.com/us.nationalguard
The National Guard on X | X.com/USNationalGuard
The National Guard on YouTube | YouTube.com/TheNationalGuard
Source: United States Army
AKARTA, Indonesia — The sounds of Hawaiian melodies and Indonesian songs echoed through classrooms, diplomatic receptions and community venues in Surabaya and Jakarta as Soldiers from the Hawaii Army National Guard’s 111th Army Band, Na Koa, joined Hawaii National Guard leaders June 8-12 to strengthen military, cultural and disaster response ties with Indonesia.
The visit marked the 20th anniversary of the Hawaii-Indonesia State Partnership Program and supported events commemorating the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. Through military-to-military exchanges, disaster response discussions and cultural performances, the delegation highlighted how professional collaboration and personal relationships continue to deepen ties between Hawaii and Indonesia.
Established in 2006, the Hawaii-Indonesia State Partnership Program has supported hundreds of exchanges focused on disaster response, aviation, medical readiness, cybersecurity and professional development. During the visit, Hawaii National Guard leaders met with Indonesian military and government officials to explore future collaboration, while Soldiers from the 111th Army Band served as cultural ambassadors, connecting with communities through music.
“The State Partnership Program is called the State Partnership Program, but it really is the State Friendship Program,” said Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan, the adjutant general of Hawaiʻi. “The relationships and friendships we’ve built over the years support both of our countries. Those personal connections are what make this partnership so strong. As we celebrate 20 years together, we’re also looking forward to the next 20.”
The delegation’s first official engagements took place June 8 at the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta, where Hawaii National Guard leaders met with embassy representatives to discuss regional priorities and opportunities for future collaboration. Discussions focused on reserve force development, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and the continued growth of the Hawaii-Indonesia partnership as both nations work to strengthen security cooperation and regional stability.
Discussions continued with leaders from Indonesia’s National Reserve Component Agency, known as BACADNAS, focusing on reserve force development and professional military exchanges. During the engagement, Logan provided an overview of the Hawaii National Guard and shared best practices for developing and sustaining a reserve force capable of supporting national defense and domestic operations.
Beyond security cooperation, Hawaii and Indonesia face many of the same challenges, particularly in responding to natural disasters and emergencies that threaten communities and critical infrastructure.
At Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency, known as BNPB, officials briefed the delegation on the nation’s disaster risk environment and emergency management framework. Discussions focused on disaster preparedness, response coordination and lessons learned from recent disasters affecting both Indonesia and Hawaii.
“Technology plays an increasingly important role in disaster management, from risk mapping and forecasting to early warning and response coordination,” said Lt. Gen. Suharyanto, head of Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency, known as BNPB. “These capabilities help us take preventive action, strengthen preparedness and reduce the impact of disasters on our communities.”
Indonesian leaders highlighted the nation’s vulnerability to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, floods, landslides and wildfires due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire. They also outlined the country’s National Disaster Management Plan 2025-2029, which emphasizes science-based risk reduction, technological innovation and whole-of-government preparedness.
Following the briefing, Logan invited BNPB leadership to participate in Vigilant Guard 2027 to further strengthen humanitarian assistance and disaster response cooperation between the two organizations.
The partnership also created opportunities for military professionals to exchange knowledge, share best practices and learn from one another’s experiences.
During a visit with Kodam Jaya/Jayakarta, the delegation attended a large-scale static display of riot control equipment and capabilities at Jakarta’s National Monument, known as Monas. Featuring more than 500 Indonesian National Armed Forces personnel, the demonstration showcased the Indonesian Army’s ability to rapidly organize, equip and employ forces in support of public order and contingency operations.
The event included a briefing on riot control procedures, operational concepts and specialized equipment used to support civil disturbance response missions. Delegation members then inspected personnel equipment, support vehicles and other capabilities used during crowd management operations. Following the demonstration, leaders from both organizations exchanged commemorative gifts as a symbol of the enduring partnership between the Hawaii National Guard and its Indonesian military and civilian counterparts.
While professional exchanges strengthened military and government relationships, cultural engagements helped foster connections between the people of Hawaii and Indonesia.
Throughout the visit, Soldiers from the 111th Army Band performed at venues across Surabaya and Jakarta, including SMK Negeri 12 Vocational Arts School; events commemorating the 250th anniversary of America’s independence hosted by the U.S. Consulate General in Surabaya and the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta; and a public performance at @america, a U.S. Embassy-operated cultural center.
The Indonesia engagement marked only the third overseas performance mission in the band’s history and its first international engagement in 34 years. The band’s previous overseas performance took place in Papua New Guinea in 1992, and its first known overseas mission occurred in 1944, when band members performed on Guadalcanal during World War II.
At SMK Negeri 12 Vocational Arts School in Surabaya, band members performed for students and participated in a question-and-answer session about military service, music careers and personal development. The interaction allowed students to learn firsthand about military musicians while fostering cultural understanding between the two countries.
“Representing Hawaiʻi in Indonesia was an honor for our Soldiers,” said Sgt. 1st Class Charifel Mateo, lead vocalist for the 111th Army Band. “Music allowed us to connect with people in a way that transcends language and reminds us that partnerships are ultimately about relationships.”
Audiences across Indonesia responded enthusiastically to Na Koa’s performances, particularly the band’s renditions of songs sung in Bahasa Indonesia. The performances demonstrated cultural appreciation and reinforced the relationship between the United States and Indonesia.
At the U.S. ambassador’s residence in Jakarta, Na Koa performed before diplomatic, military and government leaders from both nations during a reception commemorating the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.
The visit concluded June 12 with a public performance at @america in Jakarta. The event brought together community members, embassy personnel and senior officials, including U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, highlighting the role cultural diplomacy continues to play in strengthening relationships between the United States and Indonesia.
Through strategic dialogue, disaster preparedness collaboration, professional exchanges and the universal language of music, the Hawaii National Guard and Indonesia continue to strengthen a partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared purpose and enduring friendship.
Related Links
The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil
State Partnership Program | NationalGuard.mil
The National Guard on Facebook | Facebook.com/TheNationalGuard
The National Guard on Flickr | Flickr.com/TheNationalGuard
The National Guard on Instagram | Instagram.com/us.nationalguard
The National Guard on X | X.com/USNationalGuard
The National Guard on YouTube | YouTube.com/TheNationalGuard
Source: United States Army
DORNSTADT, Germany— Machine-gun fire echoed across the safety line. On one side of that line, Soldiers and police officers, German and American, talked about work and the weekend. On the other side, they locked in for a friendly competition.
Members of U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart’s Directorate of Emergency Services competed with German Polizei, and the Bundeswehr from Ulm at their local shooting range. The joint shooting competition was a great opportunity for personnel to test new weaponry while strengthening their bond with host-nation counterparts.
Participants competed with several German service weapons, including the G36 rifle, the P8 pistol, and the newly fielded MG5 machine gun.
Twelve teams from 10 units competed. Teams from Göppingen Police Headquarters took first and third place. Aalen Police Headquarters took second. USAG Stuttgart placed fourth.
For many, the competition was a welcome break from daily routine and a chance to share tactics.
“A competition like this is a good opportunity to come together and get out of the normal day-to-day routine,” said Sgt. 1st Class Julian of the German military police’s 7th Corps. German military rules restrict using his last name. “Strengthening the relationship is great. These are my favorite kind of days, being outside in nature, being here with your comrades, whether they are German or American. There aren’t better days than these.”
On the drive back to Stuttgart, the USAG Stuttgart team talked about the competition.
“I think we would do better if we were using our own guns,” said Eric Frasier, chief of Physical Security Division at USAG Stuttgart.
Master Sgt. Carlos Boggs, provost sergeant for the Directorate of Emergency Services, enjoyed the challenge.
“I want to beat them at their own game,” Boggs said. “I want to learn how to shoot with them.”
Source: United States Army
VICENZA, Italy — Community members at U.S. Army Garrison Italy are mourning the loss of Charles L. Braxton III, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime member of the Vicenza Military Community whose presence, kindness and steady dedication left a lasting mark on those around him.
Braxton, 45, was born in Amherst, Virginia, and enlisted in the Army in March 2002. He completed airborne training and served as a parachute rigger, a role that reflected the discipline and reliability he carried throughout his life. After leaving active duty in 2005, he continued serving the Vicenza community in a civilian capacity at Caserma Ederle, working at the bowling alley, the post office and, for many years, as a maintenance supervisor at the Ederle Inn.
His colleagues remember him as a dependable professional who took pride in supporting Soldiers, families and visitors who passed through the installation. U.S. Army Master Sgt. Jonathan Malone, a USAG Italy operations noncommissioned officer, first met Braxton more than two decades ago when both were junior Soldiers in Vicenza. Their friendship endured across years and assignments.
Braxton was known for his ability to see the good in people and for treating everyone with honesty, kindness and respect. Those fortunate enough to know him well found a loyal, genuine friend who offered unwavering support. Malone said Braxton took immense pride in the roles he held in life — “a devoted son, loving husband, proud father and trusted friend.”
His family was always at the center of his heart, and he expressed his love through generosity, encouragement and a willingness to help others without hesitation, Malone said.
Though often quiet and serious at first glance, Braxton quickly revealed a warm spirit and gentle humor. He loved his work and cherished his life in Italy, embracing both the daily rhythm of the community and the opportunities to explore Europe. He enjoyed cooking, singing along to music, watching TV and spending time with his family — especially his son, Maddox, who brought him immeasurable joy. He danced when the moment felt right and found peace in fishing.
His hobbies reflected his creativity and playfulness. He began playing Pokémon GO with his son and continued long after, enjoying the simple fun it brought. Drawing and art gave him calm and satisfaction. Sports were another passion: he loved watching his son play soccer and followed his favorite basketball and football teams closely.
Travel became one of his greatest joys. Living in Europe allowed him to visit Kraków, Croatia, Venice, London and Hungary – his home away from home. Madrid also held a special place in his heart; a family trip there became one of his most cherished memories.
Braxton is survived by his wife, Virag Endredi; son Maddox L. Braxton; mother Mary J. Braxton; father Pastor Charles L. Braxton Jr.; and sisters Katherine B. Thomas and Martha Renee Braxton.
A funeral will be held Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 10:45 a.m. at Parrocchia della Madonna della Pace – Chiesa S. Maria Regina della Pace, Str. dei Pizzolati 2, Vicenza. Community members are welcome to attend the service in the Stanga neighborhood near the Il Fauno restaurant.