Category: Security

Source: United States Army

POWIDZ, Poland – The landscape of opportunity expanded on NATO’s forward edge as U.S. Army Garrison Poland opened the Powidz Education Center on April 15.

Located in the Powidz Military Community, the logistical heartbeat for V Corps operations about 1.5 hours east from the garrison’s headquarters in Poznan, the new education center will provide immediate support to the 2,500 Soldiers stationed at or near the post.

“The opening of the Powidz Education Center marks a major milestone for USAG Poland,” said Majella Lanham, the garrison’s Education Services Officer. “It’s a milestone I’m deeply proud to support because it gives our

Soldiers and civilians, the face-to-face guidance and academic opportunities they deserve.”

The new education center is part of a broader effort that began under the garrison’s precursor organization – Army Support Group Poland in December 2022 – when the Poznan Education Center was established.

Lanham said much like the Poznan center, the new site will provide a hub for education, vocational training, and career advancement that includes academic counseling, financial aid workshops. The center also provides access to degree programs from partnered universities, with offices from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the University of Maryland Global Campus on location.

Future plans include a Testing Center to offer exams such as the Defense Language Aptitude Battery, Defense Language Proficiency Test, Armed Forces Classification Test, Oral Proficiency Interview, and the Selection Instrument for Flight Training. These exams support promotion points, commissioning pathways, mission readiness, and career progression said Lanham.

April 15th also marks the first Powidz Graduation Recognition Ceremony – and only the garrison’s second. Eight service members will be recognized for completing higher education milestones. Four graduates have earned their associate degrees, and four have earned their bachelor’s degrees.

Spc. Mohammad Sesay, assigned to the 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, has committed to mission readiness and professionalism while simultaneously pursuing his academic goals.

“Graduation means everything to me,” said Sesay. “I balanced my responsibilities, stayed disciplined and pushed myself to keep going no matter the obstacle. “

Sesay is set to earn his Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management from Colorado Technical University, with an expected award date of April 27, 2026. By balancing deployment, coursework, and military obligations, Sesay has shown the discipline and drive that defines true leadership potential.

“As we recognize our first Powidz graduates and open this brand-new center, it’s an honor for my team and me to stand beside these service members whose commitment to education reflects the resilience and excellence that drive our mission forward,” said Lanham.

Source: United States Army

SEMBACH, Germany — Senior leaders from across the theater gathered for the 21st Theater Sustainment Command Senior Leaders Forum, April 7–10, 2026, at the Workforce Development Center on Sembach Kaserne to align priorities and assess operations in support of U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. European Command objectives.

Hosted by Maj. Gen. Michael B. Lalor, commanding general of the 21st TSC, the forum brought together commanders, senior enlisted leaders and key staff to discuss the state of the command and prepare for future operations supporting large-scale combat.

As the Army’s primary sustainment command for U.S. Army Europe and Africa, the 21st TSC enables deterrence, strengthens interoperability with allies and sustains forward-postured forces across the region.

During his opening remarks, Lalor highlighted the command’s operational tempo and recent accomplishments, emphasizing sustainment as a critical enabler of combat power.

“Our teams have successfully executed sustainment missions across Europe over the past six month,” Lalor said. “We’ve delivered more than 2 million gallons of fuel and executed 14 RSOMs (reception, staging, onward movement). The 21st TSCs continues to enable combat power at the point of need when it’s needed.”

These efforts support rotational and forward forces aligned with EUCOM priorities, ensuring combat-credible capabilities are positioned rapidly across the theater.

“Our ability to move equipment across ports, rail and ground networks demonstrates the strength of our theater-opening capability and the expertise of our Soldiers and civilians,” Lalor said.

“It’s important to bring the team together to talk, collaborate and build cohesion,” said Col. William Prince, chief of staff for the 21st TSC. “Knowing the people to your left and right strengthens the organization.”

The forum also highlighted modernization efforts aligned with Army and theater priorities, including the fielding of advanced bulk fuel distribution systems and continued development of the Advanced Manufacturing Strategy and Innovation Center, which supports readiness by producing critical parts forward in theater.

Looking ahead, Lalor outlined priorities for the next six months, including preparations for exercise SWORD 26, a key opportunity to integrate sustainment capabilities into large-scale, multidomain operations alongside allies and partners.

“Our primary focus is, and will continue to be, setting and supporting the European theater,” Lalor said. “We will continue to train to execute theater opening, distribution and closing.”

Senior leaders reinforced the importance of training and leader development across formations.

“The command’s priorities remain consistent: people, warfighting, readiness, innovation and connection,” said Col. Michael Lindley, deputy commander of the 21st TSC.

Leaders also emphasized interoperability and burden-sharing across the alliance, particularly through bilateral agreements that enhance efficiency and strengthen multinational sustainment frameworks.

“We are committed to ensuring our formations are ready to operate in contested environments and building a resilient and adaptive sustainment network,” Lindley said. “Our brigades are developing experts, investing in our teams and building formations with the capabilities to meet the demands of the warfighter.”

Throughout the forum, participants engaged in sessions focused on sustainment innovation, data integration and building resilient logistics networks capable of supporting dispersed operations across EUCOM.

Senior enlisted leadership emphasized the importance of maintaining connections beyond the forum.

“Do not allow the Senior Leader Forum to become the sole touchpoint for command team engagement, said Command Sgt. Maj. Denise Malave, senior enlisted adviser for the 21st TSC.”Use it as a start point, not a finish line. Continue to deliberately connect across formations, strengthen relationships, and maintain open lines of communication at every echelon to better improve training, leader development, and standards across the theater.”

The forum provided leaders an opportunity to synchronize efforts and ensure the command remains ready to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, EUCOM and allied forces.

Source: United States Army

WASHINGTON — In a basement training room at the D.C. Army National Guard Armory, soldiers and airmen train in close-quarters combat — a hands-on program leaders say is sharpening readiness, discipline and the warrior ethos across the force.

Formally established in February, the District of Columbia National Guard’s Combatives Program is already producing results, sending competitors to the 2026 Lacerda Cup — one of the Army’s premier hand-to-hand combat tournaments — while reshaping how some units approach physical training. The program aligns with the Modern Army Combatives Program, blending wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, boxing and Muay Thai to improve lethality, self-defense and unit cohesion.

“The mission of the combatives program is to increase soldier lethality and their understanding and comprehension of what to do during a physical altercation,” said Capt. Andrew Devine, the program’s officer in charge.

Training prepares troops for unpredictable environments, teaching them how to create space, control individuals and protect themselves and others, Devine said.

The program has also fielded a competitive team testing itself against top fighters across the force. At the 2026 Lacerda Cup at Fort Benning, 21 teams competed — including 19 active-duty, one Army Reserve and two National Guard teams — with only eight champions emerging. National Guard soldiers from several states advanced through early rounds, with seven reaching the semifinals and four advancing to the finals.

Among them was Spc. Isaiah Castellanos of the D.C. National Guard, who won the bantamweight title after four matches in three days. He finished each bout in under two minutes, earning three submission victories before closing the championship fight with a knockout against a teammate.

“It feels pretty good,” Castellanos said. “My coaches and my teammates helped me a lot with my game plan.”

While competition highlights top performers, leaders emphasize the program is designed for soldiers and airmen at all experience levels. Participation ranges from beginners to professional fighters across the Army and Air National Guard.

A five-day basic course introduces foundational techniques, while a two-week advanced course builds on those skills through scenario-based training and controlled competition.

“The way that it’s designed is to take somebody who’s never had any martial arts or fighting experience and … give them a basic understanding,” Devine said.

That accessibility has drawn participants with varied backgrounds. Castellanos, who entered with experience in wrestling and jiu-jitsu, said the program helped expand his skills into striking disciplines.

“It’s definitely something you can start from zero with,” he said.

Located inside the D.C. Armory, the program offers accessible training opportunities for Guardsmen assigned to Joint Task Force–District of Columbia. Units can reserve time with instructors, enabling broader participation across the force, including recurring training by the 260th Special Purpose Brigade and long-term involvement from Air National Guard members.

Leaders say the program is also improving morale and retention, with many participants ranking combatives among their preferred forms of physical training.

“It’s their favorite PT because it’s something new, and people are actually learning skills that they can apply,” Devine said.

Participation remains voluntary, but officials expect the program to expand as interest grows. For leaders, the objective is clear.

“It’s just being able to be prepared to fight and win,” Devine said.

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

SEMBACH, Germany — U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz’ Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation welcomed 70 military-connected children at the former Sembach Elementary School theater April 14 for “Crowns & Capes” – an interactive event featuring Disney characters come to life.

In recognition of the Month of the Military Child, Armed Forces Entertainment actors treated audiences to an immersive themed showing of Moana. The experience brought the story to life, allowing young attendees to engage with the film in a way that blended imagination, music and storytelling.

“Crowns & Capes” also visited Baumholder, offering “superhero training” at the Hall of Champions along with the immersive Moana movie experience at the Rheinlander Community Club on Smith Barracks.

The Sembach event transformed the historic theater into a vibrant, kid-friendly environment filled with popcorn, laughter and excitement, highlighting the importance of community and connection.

Leaders emphasized that events like these go beyond entertainment.

“It’s about taking care of our most important assets—our children,” one organizer noted. “Behind every mission is a family and today was about them.”

Armed Forces Entertainment tours like “Crowns & Capes” are aimed at supporting military families by delivering high-quality entertainment experiences to overseas communities. The program focuses on creating memorable moments for children, emphasizing creativity, resilience and the unique role military youth play in supporting the mission.

U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz sets, serves and secures the total force community, enabling power projection for the European Theater.

Connect with us: https://linktr.ee/usag_rp

Editor’s note: This courtesy article was drafted with the assistance of generative AI. It was subsequently reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by USAG Rheinland-Pfalz public affairs to ensure accuracy, compliance with DoW security guidelines, and to reflect the appropriate tone.

Source: United States Army

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — More than 2,000 military-connected children across Wyoming were recognized April 13 as the Wyoming Military Department and the 90th Missile Wing joined Gov. Mark Gordon for a proclamation signing declaring April the Month of the Military Child.

The annual observance highlights the unique challenges military children face, including frequent moves, changing schools and extended separations from parents due to training and deployments.

Senior leaders emphasized the strength of Wyoming’s relationship with its military community and the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by military families.

“Governor, thank you. On behalf of the men and women in uniform, thank you for your continued support,” said Col. Terrance J. Holmes, commander of the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren Air Force Base. “We know the relationship the state of Wyoming has with its military community is strong. The fact that we are able to be here today to recognize this is significant.”

Holmes also highlighted Purple Up Day and other efforts to show support for military families.

“This is a meaningful way to recognize military families, especially our children,” Holmes said. “There are hundreds of military-connected children across Wyoming, and many of us here have children in this community.”

Leaders shared personal perspectives on the impact of military service on families, noting the resilience required of military children.

“My two children have experienced deployments and long absences throughout my career,” said Chaplain (Maj.) Matthew D. Sullivan, deputy state chaplain for the Wyoming Army National Guard. “They’re asked to do without someone they rely on, and they don’t fully understand why. It’s not easy.”

Despite those challenges, Sullivan said military children develop a strong understanding of service and sacrifice.

“They recognize that our freedom and way of life has a cost,” Sullivan said. “I’m grateful to my children, and to all military children for supporting us on the home front.”

During the proclamation, Gordon highlighted statewide efforts to support military-connected students, including the Purple Star School Program and Wyoming’s participation in the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.

“Whereas, there are more than 2,000 military-connected children in Wyoming who face unique challenges as a result of their parents’ military service,” Gordon read. “Now, therefore, I do hereby proclaim April 2026 as the Month of the Military Child in Wyoming.”

Leaders emphasized that recognizing military children contributes to a ready and resilient force.

“The state of Wyoming stands 100% behind you and your families,” Holmes said. “If there’s anything we can do to support you, we will.”

The Wyoming National Guard joins communities statewide in honoring military children throughout April and encourages schools, organizations and citizens to recognize their contributions and support their continued success.

Source: United States Army

“This ceremony recognizes America’s 250th birthday in Arkansas while honoring the military service that helped secure our independence,” said Army Brig. Gen. Chad Bridges, Arkansas’ adjutant general. “The colonial militias — the predecessors of today’s National Guard — stood against the British Army at Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775, and the Continental Congress established the Army two months later on June 14, 1775. Arkansas also has a direct Revolutionary War connection through the 1783 battle at Arkansas Post, recognized as the only Revolutionary War battle fought in present-day Arkansas.”

The 250 recruits represent the nearly 1,300 guardsmen that both the Arkansas Army and Air National Guard recruit annually into their respective brigades and wings.

The Arkansas National Guard traces its roots to 1804, one year after the Louisiana Purchase.

The legislative body governing the Indiana Territory, of which Arkansas was a part, enacted a law making most males liable for military service, according to the Arkansas National Guard Museum website.

Throughout its history, the Arkansas National Guard has answered the call in times of war, natural disasters and other domestic emergencies. Its legacy reflects the service of Arkansans who have balanced civilian lives with military duty, exemplifying the citizen-soldier ethos that has defined the nation since its founding.

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

WASHINGTON — Joint Interagency Task Force 401 and Joint Task Force-National Capital Region recently coordinated a training exercise at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, as part of a synchronized effort to advance counter-drone capabilities in the National Capital Region.

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) are undergoing special training on the Bumblebee V1 counter-UAS system as part of a broader effort to strengthen layered defenses protecting key Department of War infrastructure in the homeland. The training focuses on equipping Soldiers with the ability to detect, track, identify and defeat drones with minimal risk to surrounding personnel and facilities.

“We want to train our warfighters in the National Capital Region on how best to employ low cost, low collateral kinetic effectors,” said Lt. Col. Alex Morse, JIATF-401 acquisition lead. “The training at Ft. Belvoir adds to the layered defense systems that are set up here in the NCR.”

The Bumblebee system is a small drone that is being operationally assessed for dual use as a reconnaissance asset and a counter-UAS platform that allows operators to identify and intercept hostile drones using a controlled, low-collateral approach.

“Bumblebee’s improved air-to-air capability will enhance our layered defenses by enabling warfighters to follow drones back to their launch point to identify the operator, or by destroying them in the air with minimal risk to people or property on the ground.” said Lt. Col. Adam Scher, JIATF-401 spokesperson.

JIATF-401 is focused on creating a layered defense against the threat of drones by integrating systems and rapidly increasing capabilities. By synchronizing efforts with JTF-NCR, JIATF-401 is leading a whole-of-government approach to protect the homeland through innovation and interoperability. The addition of Bumblebee systems represents a deliberate step in expanding the tools available for our warfighters to use against the persistent threat of UAS.

“Countering drones is both a battlefield and a homeland defense imperative. We have to work together, share information, and leverage the entire joint force along with interagency and law enforcement partners to keep pace with this threat,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, director of JIATF-401.

“We will not be limited to library-based radio frequency defeat systems as we protect against drone threats,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Ross, director of JIATF-401. “We must be proactive with a layered defense, including kinetic defeat options at every War Department base or facility.”

As unmanned threats evolve, success will depend not only on acquiring top-tier technology, but also on ensuring our warfighters are properly trained and have the necessary permissions to effectively employ c-UAS technology in defense of the homeland.