Category: US Army

Source: United States Army

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U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa

BIZERTE, Tunisia — Low crawling through the woods for long periods of time is nothing new to U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joshua Trutna. Splinters, fatigue and heat are all part of the job as a tactical remote sensor system maintainer with Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group.

What is new for Trutna, is doing it alongside Tunisian Special Forces soldiers in the forests of northern Tunisia.

Trutna gained a deeper understanding of what it means to defend a homeland during African Lion 2026, as Tunisian Special Forces soldiers told him about their experiences conducting real-world missions to protect their country from terrorist threats.

“As tough as the training can be, there’s a reason behind it,” Trutna said. “They [Tunisian Special Forces] are actually doing the mission.”

This interaction with Tunisian forces is part of U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint exercise, designed to strengthen collective security capabilities of the U.S., African nations and global allies. Co-led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) from April 20 to May 8, and hosted in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, the exercise involves over 5,600 personnel from more than 40 nations, using innovation to drive partner-led regional security.

Marines assigned to Ground Sensor Platoon trained with Tunisian forces on remote sensor systems used to detect movement and provide early warning in complex terrain.

Throughout the exercise, Marines shared techniques on how to emplace, monitor and recover ground sensors in daylight and low-light conditions. They also conducted infiltration and observation of named areas of interest with partner forces to build multinational readiness.

Trutna connected with his counterparts as they sweat their way through the dense terrain of northern Tunisian forests. The shared experience gave Trutna a new perspective on the purpose behind the training and the common hardships endured by warfighters everywhere.

“We all deal with the same things,” Trutna said. “Being tired, sitting in the field, waiting for something to happen.”

Tunisia’s position in North Africa creates distinct security challenges as its vast and often remote terrain is difficult to monitor with traditional tools alone, which made the Marines’ employment of ground sensors all the more essential. This training paved the way for Tunisian forces to receive faster, more reliable notification of terrorist threats.

“These sensors give us another tool to understand what’s happening in the battlespace,” said U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Joseph Kennedy, platoon commander of the Ground Sensor Platoon.

The Marines demonstrated how these systems can support border security efforts in complex environments.

“Even covering a small area can provide information that helps us determine where movement is happening and how to respond,” Kennedy said.

This training event also represented a significant milestone for the unit. According to Kennedy, AL26 marked the first deployment of the newest generation of ground sensor systems outside of the United States. Earlier this year, his platoon became the first U.S. Marine unit to receive the equipment, and they have continued to refine its employment in real-world environments.

“It’s a great opportunity to expose these sensors, not just to our partner forces, but also to other U.S. services that may not have this capability,” Kennedy said.

Trutna, Kennedy and the rest of Ground Sensor Platoon now carry a clearer sense of why their expertise matters. In Tunisia’s forests, they saw how their sensors and skills give partners the ability to spot threats before they strike.

In that shared mission, they found a deeper understanding of what it means to help defend a homeland. For the U.S., that means addressing threats before they can arrive on American soil.

Related Stories

US Approves $95M Tunisia Border Security Upgrade Deal | April 28, 2026

Roaring into action: African Lion 2026 begins in Tunisia | April 15, 2026

US Soldiers strengthen Tunisian Armed Forces’ civil-military operations capacity | Dec. 23, 2025

About African Lion

African Lion 2026 is U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint exercise, designed to strengthen collective security capabilities of the U.S., African nations and global allies. Co-led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) from April 20 to May 8, 2026, and hosted in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, AL26 involves over 5,600 personnel from more than 40 nations, using innovation to drive partner-led regional security.

African Lion content can be found on the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS).

About SETAF-AF

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

Source: United States Army

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany – U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz firefighters joined forces with German emergency responders April 26 to contain a large brush fire that threatened the A6/A63 autobahn interchange.

When the fire broke out in north Kaiserslautern, flames and heavy smoke forced the closure of the major traffic route. German firefighters at the Kaiserslautern Main Dispatch Center issued a request for support, and the garrison’s Directorate of Emergency Services (DES) responded without delay.

DES Deputy Fire Chief Robert Womble led the response, deploying Engine-12 from Fire Station1 Kaiserslautern East alongside Hook-37, a 7,000-liter water tender from Miesau Army Depot.

“Our crews were ready to move,” said Womble. “We train for these situations and working with our German partners, we were able to get the fire under control and keep it from spreading further.”

Garrison fire crews were initially staged at the nearby ZAK industrial complex before being integrated into the host nation’s incident command. Working side by side, American and German firefighters carried out water shuttle operations and attacked the fire from the hillside and along the autobahn.

The scale of the fire and dense smoke kept the A6/A63 interchange closed until late Sunday night.

Personnel on scene included Womble; Engine-12 Crew Chief Markus Roughton, Driver Operator Rafael Kuhnert and Firefighter Manuel Schwoerer; and Hook-37 firefighters Martin Sauer and Michael Laufer.

The response reflects ongoing cooperation between USAG Rheinland-Pfalz and local German emergency services. In 2024, the garrison’s DES formalized a mutual aid agreement with several surrounding communities including Bruchmühlbach-Miesau, to better prepare coordinated response efforts during emergencies such as fires and floods.

Editor’s note: Cameron Hochheim, Kaiserslautern High School student and public affairs intern, contributed to this story.

Source: United States Army

No Refrigeration Needed

Army Medics Learn Walking Blood Bank Transfusion Techniques during Combined Resolve

Story and Photos by U.S. Army 1st Sergeant Lisa Rodriguez-Presley

HOHENFELS, Germany – Combined Resolve 26-07 is increasing more than battlefield lethality, as U.S. Army combat medics from the 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division train to provide lifesaving care and return wounded Soldiers to the fight.

“Walking blood banks are something you only see in combat situations,” said Master Sgt. Daniel Tumey, an Observer Coach/Trainer with Joint Multinational Readiness Center, Team Adler. “In cases where blood supplies are running critically low, soldiers have the opportunity to save lives by giving whole blood for immediate use.”

According to Tumey, medics rarely have the opportunity to practice giving blood transfusions, which is a highly perishable skill. Even rarer is the opportunity to set up a “walking blood bank,” where whole blood is taken from soldiers and immediately transfused to casualties who can’t wait for traditional blood supplies to be replenished.

“I have some soldiers say to me that they’ve done this training in Advanced Individual Training, but I haven’t seen a lot of providers doing training like this at home station,” said Tumey. “Blood kits are very expensive, and a lot of the soldiers coming through here say that they’ve never done transfusions before, but as a combat medic, you’re expected to know how to do it.”

For the exercise, patients served as both donors and recipients of their own blood. Combat medics took blood from the patient, checked the blood type using a blood kit, and then transfused the soldier’s own blood back into their body, giving the medics real-world experience that can’t be replicated any other way.

“The only time I’ve done a blood transfusion in the Army was during AIT,” said Pfc. Fantashia Carroll, a combat medic with 3rd Brig. 1st Cav. Div. “This training is really helping me with my skills since I’m doing so many repetitions, and for future patients, I’m able to perform better.”

The risk during the procedure is low, but not zero, according to Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Pischieri, an Observer Coach/Trainer with JMRC, Team Adler. Infection, adverse reactions to medication, and other complications are always a possibility.

“This is as much an art as it is a skill,” said Pischieri. “The more you practice, the more you develop techniques that work better for you. Everyone has little differences in how they teach these skills, so you take what you’re taught, and you work to improve on it.”

According to Tumey and Pischieri, the exercise allows them to mentor and instill confidence in young medics, increasing the proficiency of those who care for wounded soldiers. These efforts help ensure that casualties receive the best possible care, even under the worst conditions.

Source: United States Army

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany – More than 50 servicemembers, civilians and veterans from across U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz crossed the stage to celebrate their academic achievements during the garrison’s Army Continuing Education System (ACES) Graduation Recognition Ceremony, held April 24 at the Tiger Theater on Sembach Kaserne.

The ACES graduation ceremony serves as an opportunity for graduates who are far from their institutions of higher learning to participate in a graduation ceremony, complete with pomp and circumstance, walking the stage and ceremonial “turning of the tassel” from right to left to signify the transition from a candidate to a graduate.

Each graduate arrived at this moment through long hours of study balanced with the demands of their day-to-day responsibilities.

Command Sgt. Maj. Randy Rivera, the garrison’s senior enlisted advisor, pointed to the daily choices behind their success.

“You chose to log in when you were tired,” he said. “You chose to study when others were resting. You chose to grow when others took it easy, and that matters. Today, you’re winners.”

Rivera encouraged the graduates to carry that same drive forward as they move beyond their academic goals.

“There’s going to be a gap in your schedule,” said Rivera. “Fill it with that same excellence — helping others and striving to be your best.”

Throughout the ceremony, graduates exchanged smiles across the room while speakers recognized the effort it took to reach this milestone.

Sgt. 1st Class Michael Edwards, internal control manager for the 45th Finance Center, said the moment felt surreal as he celebrated the completion of his Master of Business Administration degree in Project Management from Columbia Southern University.

“Walking across that stage symbolizes the dedication and perseverance that brought me to this point,” he said.

In the audience, his children watched. They were part of the reason Edwards kept going even as the workload grew.

“As a dad, having my children here to witness this day fills me with pride and reminds me why I never give up,” he said. “I’m grateful for the support system that helped me reach this achievement.”

The ceremony recognized graduates across a range of academic programs and disciplines, including:

Associate Degree Graduates:

• Staff Sgt. Jermel Bell – Associate of Arts, General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Sgt. Christian Eric Billote – Associate of Arts, Business Administration and Management, University of Arkansas – Grantham
• Sgt. Austin Cardon – Associate of Science, Fire Science, American Military University
• Sgt. Malaika Craig – Associate of Arts, General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Sgt. Jamilla Harris – Associate of Arts, General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Sgt. Lydia Lafferty – Associate of Arts, General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus. Dean’s List
• Sgt. Vaelua Misiaita – Associate of Arts, Interdisciplinary Studies, American Military University
• Sgt. Monique Moraga – Associate of Arts, General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Sgt. Christopher Rodriguez Lopez – Associate of Arts, Interdisciplinary Studies, American Military University. Dean’s List
• Sgt. 1st Class Carmen Sinkfield – Associate of Arts, General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Mrs. Ashley Zubia (U.S. Army-Veteran) – Associate of Arts, General Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus. Dean’s List. USAG-RP UMGC Representative
• CW2 Waldemar Maldonado – Master of Science, Cloud Computing Systems, University of Maryland Global Campus. Phi Kappa Phi, Upsilon Pi Epsilon
• Staff Sgt. Semere Mekonen – Master of Science, Cyber Security Technology, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Staff Sgt. Ruth Oloyede – Master of Science, Health Information Management, American Military University. High Academic Achievement
• 1st Lt. Chris Palaguachi – Master of Business Administration, American Intercontinental University Online
• Staff Sgt. Sara Plant – Master of Arts, Public History, Southern New Hampshire University. National Society of Leadership
• Mrs. Jessica Richardson – Master of Arts, Management, Concentration in Organizational Leadership, American Public University System. Golden Key International Honour Society, Delta Mu Delta
• Sgt. 1st Class Michael Riffey – Master of Science, International Relations, Troy University
• Jane Robles – Master of Science, Acquisition and Contract Management, University of Maryland Global Campus. USAG-RP UMGC Representative
• Itzia Rubio – Master of Science, Clinical and Mental Health Counseling, Bellevue University. USAG-RP ACES Army Education Counselor
• Sgt. 1st Class Jack Schneiderman – Master of Science, Business Analytics, Mercer University. AACSB Honor Roll. Beta Gamma Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi

Baccalaureate Degree Graduates:

• Staff Sgt. Mae Asis – Bachelor of Arts, Supply Chain Management, Transportation and Logistics Management, American Military University
• Master Sgt. DeMar Bowman – Bachelor of Arts, Human Resources Management, American Military University. Magna Cum Laude
• Sgt. 1st Class Athena Conway – Bachelor of Science, Human Resources Management, Columbia College. Cum Laude
• Staff Sgt. Ana Fajardo – Bachelor of Science, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Grand Canyon University. National Society of Collegiate Scholars
• Sgt. 1st Class Eric Foryah – Bachelor of Science, Environmental Science, American Military University
• Staff Sgt. Katlin Gillespie – Bachelor of Science, Social Science, Excelsior University
• Sgt. 1st Class Ronald Griffith – Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Sgt. Thijsa Innocent-Niles – Bachelor of Science, Information Technology Management, American Military University
• Staff Sgt. Jesse Lawson – Bachelor of Science, Sports and Health Sciences, American Military University
• Staff Sgt. Omar Lozada Rodriguez – Bachelor of Arts, Transportation and Logistics Management, American Military University
• Master Sgt. Jermaine Marcus – Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management, Management Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Sgt. 1st Class Alyssa Mirea – Bachelor of Science, Cybersecurity Technology, University of Maryland Global Campus
• CW2 Jeremiah Murray – Bachelor of Science, National Security, Intelligence and Security Analysis, Excelsior University
• Sgt. 1st Class Héctor Negron Reyes – Bachelor of Science, Legal Studies, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Staff Sgt. David Nuñez – Bachelor of Science, Psychology, University of Maryland Global Campus. Dean’s List
• Staff Sgt. Manuel Rebolledo – Bachelor of Arts, Business Administration, American Military University
• Staff Sgt. Stevonna Reyes – Bachelor of Arts, Transportation and Logistics Management, American Military University
• Staff Sgt. Jerry Rudolph – Bachelor of Science, Finance, Minor in Accounting, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Sgt. Lucner Similien – Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, Columbia Southern University. Summa Cum Laude
• Spc. Joshua Smith – Bachelor of Arts, Management, American Military University
• Sgt. Weijing Zhang – Bachelor of Science, Psychology, University of Maryland Global Campus. Magna Cum Laude, Dean’s List

Master Degree Graduates:

• Mrs. Latoya Bell – Master of Arts, Psychology, The University of Arizona Global Campus
• Mrs. Lucy Brown – Master of Arts, Human Resources Management, American Public University
• Sgt. Maria Victoria Carrascal – Master of Business Administration, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Mr. Collin Cash (U.S. Army-Retired) – Master of Business Administration, Washington State University
• Staff Sgt. Jaime Davila Lara – Master of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management and Homeland Security, American Military University. Summa Cum Laude.
• Sgt. 1st Class Michael Edwards – Master of Business Administration, Project Management, Columbia Southern University
• Sgt. Terry-Lee Harrison – Master of Arts, Management – Human Resource Management, American Military University
• Mrs. Jessica Hill (U.S. Air Force-Retired) – Master of Science, Leadership, Trident University. With honors. Order of the Eastern Stars and Daughters
• Sgt. 1st Class LaTrice Lewis-Turner – Master of Science, Acquisition and Contract Management, Florida Institute of Technology. Sergeant Audie Murphy Club (SAMC), Noncommissioned Officer Association (NCOA)
• Mr. Glen Smith – Master of Business Administration, Grand Canyon University
• Capt. Keisha Smithers – Master of Science, Public Health Nursing, Grand Canyon University. Magna Cum Laude
• Mrs. Kasey Markita Wade – Master of Arts, Human Services Administration, The University of Arizona Global Campus. Alpha Lambda Chapter of Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society, Golden Key International Honour Society

Doctoral Graduates:

• Dr. Alexis Grant-Panting – PhD, Sociology, Texas Woman’s University. With honors. American Sociological Association, Association of Black Sociologists, and Rural Sociological Society
• Dr. Ruthan Monrose – Doctorate in Education (Curriculum and Instruction), Liberty University. Graduate with highest honors. USAG-RP ACES BSEP Instructor
• Dr. Dawn Proctor (US Air Force-Retired) – PhD, Management, Walden University. Honor and Distinction. Delta Mu Delta International Academic Honor Society in Business

USAG Rheinland-Pfalz’ Army Continuing Education System serves as a symbol of lifelong learning, readiness and resilience, providing flexible and high-quality education programs to support the entire Army. Through initiatives like the graduation recognition ceremony, ACES empowers military personnel, civilians and veterans to achieve their academic goals while maintaining their dedication to serving their country.

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

Source: United States Army

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U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa

AGADIR, Morocco – U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint exercise, African Lion 26, officially begins today. The exercise is hosted across four nations including Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia. The activities in Morocco will include approximately 5,000 personnel from over 40 countries and more than 30 U.S.-based industry partners validating future warfare capabilities across multiple locations within the country from 27 April to May 8, 2026.

Executed by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), the event is designed to strengthen the collective security capabilities of the United States, African nations and global allies. The training stress-tests the U.S. joint force and partner nations’ ability to execute rapid deployments and operate under multi-domain threat conditions.

“African Lion 26 reflects our continued bilateral commitment to regional security and stability,” said Duke Buchan III, U.S. Ambassador to Morocco. “As our nations celebrate 250 years of friendship, this enduring diplomatic and military partnership continues to build capable, interoperable forces and strengthen security across the region.”

The exercise features a comprehensive suite of training events designed to test the full spectrum of military operations.

Training events include multinational academics, command field exercise, combined armed live-fire exercises, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives training, special operations training, air and maritime operations, and humanitarian civic assistance.

The exercise integrates more than 30 U.S.-based vendors testing emerging capabilities across mission command, deep attack, defense-in-depth, and counter-attack systems. Technologies validated include autonomous systems, artificial intelligence-enabled command and control, counter-unmanned aircraft systems, and advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms.

“African Lion 2026 is a critical demonstration of peace through strength in action,” said U.S. Air Force General Dagvin Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command. “We are working to prevent Islamic terrorists in Africa from using regional safe heavens to strike the U.S. Homeland, and empowering allies and partners to lead efforts to degrade and destroy these organizations.”

The exercise underscores the enduring U.S. commitment to its African partners, reinforcing the necessary coalition network required to deter regional threats.

Key supporting activities throughout the exercise demonstrate the breadth of U.S.-Morocco military cooperation.

The Utah National Guard will conduct humanitarian civic assistance treating an estimated 20,000 patients over 11 days through the State Partnership Program. The Utah National Guard has maintained a State Partnership Program with Morocco since 2003.

The exercise validates decision dominance by leveraging artificial intelligence-enabled tools across operational targeting and coalition command to accelerate the sensor-to-shooter cycle. The mission partner environment network bridges classified and unclassified data systems, ensuring U.S., NATO and Moroccan forces share a common operating picture.

African Lion 26 supports U.S. Africa Command’s objectives of empowering African partners to achieve operational independence and building the coalition networks necessary to counter transnational threats.

About African Lion

African Lion 2026 is U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint exercise, designed to strengthen collective security capabilities of the U.S., African nations and global allies. Co-led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) from April 20 to May 8, 2026, and hosted in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, AL26 involves over 5,600 personnel from more than 40 nations, using innovation to drive partner-led regional security.

African Lion content can be found on the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS).

About SETAF-AF

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

Source: United States Army

WIESBADEN, Germany — U.S. Army Europe and Africa kicks off exercise Sword 26 today. This series of exercises will run through the end of May 2026 in eight countries across NATO’s Eastern Flank, replacing the DEFENDER exercise series.

Sword 26 will see U.S. and NATO forces conducting operations across eight countries in the High North, the Baltic region and in Poland. The exercise focuses on operationalizing the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative, a transformational concept designed for NATO and U.S. forces to execute NATO’s integrated defense plans in the land domain.

“Sword 26 tests our lethality and ability to harness data and AI-enabled warfare at scale to operate with NATO Allies. It’s the application of Army Transformation to fight NATO’s regional plans across all domains in the High North, Baltic region, and Poland,” saidGen. Christopher Donahue,commanding general, U.S. Army Europe and Africa.

The exercise series includes three linked exercises: Saber Strike, Immediate Response, and Swift Response. Each plays a unique role in validating Allied and U.S. land forces to execute NATO’s plans and advance the EFDI concept. Saber Strike focuses on rapid overland deployment in the Baltic region, Immediate Response showcases sustainment and combat power in the High North, and Swift Response demonstrates the deployment of specialized equipment from the U.S. and within the theater.

The DEFENDER exercise, an acronym for Dynamic Employment of Forces to Europe for NATO Deterrence and Enhanced Readiness, focused on the deployment of units from the U.S. into Europe from 2020-2025, testing USAREUR-AF’s ability to receive and integrate forces. Sword shifts the focus to validating NATO’s regional plans and advancing the EFDI. This change reflects the U.S. Army’s emphasis on warfighting, modernization, and readiness, consistent with NATO’s transformational priorities.

For U.S. forces, it’s a platform for integrating cutting-edge capabilities, such as AI-enabled command and control systems, and multi-domain operations.

“Sword 26 allows us to test and train a number of efforts,” said Col. James Egan, USAREUR-AF Director of Training and Exercises. “Our Allies are stepping up to meet NATO’s pledge to invest in formations and capabilities, from setting the network to integrating sensors and unmanned systems, this exercise puts it all together to command and control forces in the field, across the Eastern Flank.”

With approximately 15,500 participants, Sword demonstrates the ability to operate as a unified, lethal force across all domains. As NATO continues to adapt to emerging threats, Sword 26 serves as a powerful example of how the U.S. Army and its Allies are working together to deter adversaries across Europe’s Northern and Eastern flanks.

For more information on Sword and related exercises, go to www.europeafrica.army.mil/SWORD.

Source: United States Army

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii — U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii is advancing quality-of-life modernization efforts by improving barracks living conditions as the 25th Infantry Division prepares for an increase in incoming personnel.

To support this shift, the garrison has procured more than 500 new bunks, mattresses, and dressers for single enlisted Soldier housing across Schofield Barracks. This effort represents the initial phase of a broader initiative to modernize living spaces and ensure Soldiers have safe, functional, and comfortable environments.

Crews began offloading the first shipment this week, with distribution and installation expected to begin within days. The new items will be strategically placed across multiple barracks facilities to increase occupancy capacity and standardize living conditions.

“This is about taking care of our Soldiers and investing in readiness,” said Travis Ryusaki, supervisor for the U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii Housing Division Furnishings Management Office, Directorate of Public Works. “Modern, functional living spaces directly support our Soldiers’ ability to recover, focus, and perform their mission. As we prepare to receive additional personnel, we are ensuring they have the environments they need to remain mission-ready.”

The initiative aligns with Army-wide priorities to strengthen readiness by investing in Soldier well-being. By upgrading barracks infrastructure, leadership aims to provide a standard of living that supports rest, resilience, and daily recovery.

Ryusaki noted that this is the first step in a phased approach to modernize barracks across the installation. Additional improvements are planned as part of ongoing efforts by the Directorate of Public Works to sustain and enhance facilities that directly impact Soldier morale.

These upgrades position Schofield Barracks to better support the 25th Infantry Division while reinforcing the Army’s commitment to putting People First and building ready, resilient formations.

Source: United States Army

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U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa

AGADIR, Morocco – A combined flight of two U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bombers and four Royal Moroccan Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons over Cap Draa, signaled the launch of Morocco‘s first accredited joint terminal attack controller qualification course, April 23.

The flyover was a key component of African Lion 26, U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) from April 20 to May 8. Integrating these aircraft into the multinational exercise demonstrated the ability of the U.S. and its partners to project combat-credible airpower worldwide.

Air Force Global Strike Command bombers routinely conduct sorties around the world to include flights required to maintain crew proficiency and qualification.

“Their visible presence over Morocco, operating alongside Royal Moroccan Air Force fighters, signals credible deterrence and reinforces the U.S. commitment to regional security,” said U.S. Air Force Gen. Dagvin Anderson, commanding general of U.S. Africa Command.

U.S. Strategic Command bomber forces regularly carry out combined theater security cooperation engagements with allies and partners, demonstrating the credibility and flexibility of U.S. forces to address today’s complex, dynamic and unpredictable global security environment.

“The inaugural JTAC qualification course trains Moroccan students to direct combat aircraft, artillery and naval gunfire from forward positions,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Therron Bundick, chief of weapons and tactics for the 165th Air Support Operations Squadron. “These controllers hold the authority to clear airstrikes, ensuring accuracy while avoiding friendly fire and minimizing collateral damage.”

During the exercise, U.S. Air Force JTACs assigned to the 165th ASOS, as well as Detachment 1 of the 2nd ASOS, joined U.S. Marine Corps JTACs with the 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company to train alongside service members from Canada, Hungary and Morocco. Live and simulated training events give students realistic close air support scenarios, and the diverse group accelerates the development of a professional JTAC cadre through the exchange of tactics and procedures.

The program marks a significant milestone in the development of the Moroccan joint fires capability and a foundational step toward a standardized, internationally interoperable JTAC capability aligned with modern coalition warfare requirements.

“Morocco’s first JTAC qualification course marks a historic milestone in advancing allied interoperability,” Bundick said. “U.S. involvement ensures a rigorous training environment to establish a lasting foundation for the program’s future.”

Combined live-fire integration also allows U.S. units to test their own tactics alongside trusted partners. U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Michael Chevallier, 1st Brigade air officer assigned to 3rd ANGLICO, emphasized that the training allowed both forces to cross-train and leverage each other’s unique operational capabilities.

“Combined live-fire training like this allows us to validate our tactics, techniques and procedures under the trusted scrutiny of an allied force,” Chevallier said. “It reinforces that shared commitment to excellence where, as we say, ‘steel sharpens steel.'”

Chevallier said AL26 has provided a valuable opportunity for the Marines of 3rd ANGLICO and its partners in the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces to learn from each other’s strengths and unique capabilities.

The combined employment of U.S. strategic heavy bombers with Moroccan airpower, paired with the launch of Morocco’s first nationally accredited JTAC qualification course, provides flexible options to assure partners and deter potential adversaries across the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility.

About African Lion

African Lion 2026 is U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint exercise, designed to strengthen collective security capabilities of the U.S., African nations and global allies. Co-led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) from April 20 to May 8, 2026, and hosted in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, AL26 involves over 5,600 personnel from more than 40 nations, using innovation to drive partner-led regional security.

African Lion content can be found on the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS).

About SETAF-AF

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

Source: United States Army

TOWER BARRACKS, Germany – In four different communities across U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, Soldiers, civilians and Family members ran through colorful, chalky plumes as part of a broad-ranging awareness campaign during April.

The Army Substance Abuse Program, the Family Advocacy Program and Sexual Harassment / Assault Response and Prevention hosted a run at Tower Barracks April 10, 2026 at Rose Barracks and USAG Bavaria – Hohenfels April 17, and at USAG Bavaria – Garmisch April 24.

In addition to the sponsoring organizations, other on-post organizations came out to support the event, including the American Red Cross, USO and others. The month of April is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Alcohol Awareness Month, and National Child Abuse Prevention Month. These monthlong observations promote prevention and awareness in the military by promulgating the causes and sharing the corresponding resources available to service members, Army civilians, and their Families.

During the run at Hohenfels, Angela Lane, the deputy garrison manager for the community, talked with the participants.

“While you’re running, please keep in mind what you’re running for: child abuse prevention, and sexual assault prevention, and alcohol abuse prevention,” Lane said. “Every step you take helps raise awareness and reinforces that no one in our community has to face these challenges alone.”

Clarissa Lamar, the Army Substance Abuse Program manager, talked about the events and why the different organizations were teaming up for them.

“We know there are a lot of harmful behaviors that are affecting our communities,” Lamar said. “When we all come together – especially when alcohol is usually at the root of the other functions that we’re here to represent – we think that a collaborative approach is best.

“We do what we can to spread out our resources and make sure that everybody knows that we’re here,” she continued.

Sgt. Pete Schroeder, 7th Army Training Command victim advocate who is based out of USAG Ansbach, supported the run at Hohenfels.

“It’s an opportunity to bring our community partners together,” he said. “We have so many events throughout the year that we have an opportunity to share our community with. This is just one of those opportunities.”

“Anyone can call our hotline, and whether it’s actually SHARP or whether it’s domestic violence or something else, we’re not going to just, say, hang up on them,” said Steven LaPlume, supervisory sexual assault response coordinator. “We’re going to assist them by conducting a warm hand-off to the appropriate agency.”

“They have community support overall from so many different amazing community partners,” said Schroeder. “We’re here to support them in any way they need, and we’re overall a transparent, supportive team. We all work together, no matter what program it is, you can contact us on any of our hotlines.”

Here are some of the resources USAG Bavaria community members can reach out to in times of struggle:

SHARP (Sexual Harassment / Assault Response and Prevention):

ASAP (Army Substance Abuse Program):

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Source: United States Army

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — U.S. Army Sgt. Daniel T. Beltran, assigned to the 809th Multi-Role Bridge Company, received the Soldier’s Medal April 24, 2026, at Tower Barracks, Grafenwoehr Training Area, for rescuing a drowning woman from the Danube River.

The Soldier’s Medal is the Army’s highest award for heroism not involving conflict with an enemy.

Beltran earned the award for his actions Sept. 12, 2024, when he entered the fast-moving Danube River near Ingolstadt, Bavaria, about 70 miles south of Grafenwoehr, without safety equipment during a training event.

Soldiers observed a 79-year-old woman floating face down in the water, unresponsive and drifting with the current.

The river, affected by recent flooding, was moving rapidly in cold conditions, with water temperatures estimated between 50 and 60 degrees.

Beltran said the urgency left little time to act.

“In my mind, it was now or never,” he said. “If I hadn’t jumped in at that exact moment, the current would have carried her farther downstream.”

After receiving approval, Beltran entered the water, swam against the current and brought the woman back to shore.

Once ashore, Beltran directed CPR as other Soldiers assisted, rotating chest compressions while he managed the woman’s airway. She expelled water and began breathing before medics arrived.

Maj. Gen. Michael B. Lalor, commanding general of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command, said the award reflects the Army’s values.

“It’s that combination of personal courage and selfless service, risking oneself to save another and make a difference,” Lalor said.

Beltran said he did not expect recognition for his actions.

“It was more my duty to try to help somebody when the opportunity was there,” he said.

He credited his fellow Soldiers for the rescue.

“It wasn’t just me,” Beltran said. “It was a group effort.”