U.S. Army News from Africa
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Multinational planning for Justified Accord 2025 strengthens partnerships in East Africa
September 16, 2024
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LOGCAP team conducts site visit to Kenya, provides contracting surveillance training
September 13, 2024
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US, Mozambique armed forces strengthen ties through professional exchange
September 13, 2024
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US, Gambian Armed Forces strengthen military ties through professional exchange
September 12, 2024
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US, Ghana Armed Forces strengthen civil-military operations
September 9, 2024
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Kentucky National Guard Hosts State Partner Djibouti
September 6, 2024
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Women, Peace and Security at the forefront of conference hosted by Special Operations Command Africa, U.S. Embassy in Benin
September 6, 2024
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US Army advisors build relationships, partnership during major exercise in Africa
August 21, 2024
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Integrating women in the military: US, Botswana hold Women, Peace and Security exchange during Southern Accord
August 19, 2024
News from Italy and Southern Europe
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Saber Junction 24 strengthens ties between NATO allies and partner nations
September 17, 2024
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Italian News (update)
September 17, 2024
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Italian and American group uncover World War II artifact near Caserma Ederle
September 17, 2024
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Former SMA visit increases awareness for Soldiers and Spouses about Army Emergency Relief in Vicenza
September 16, 2024
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USAG Italy and Padova commemorate 9/11 during ceremony
September 11, 2024
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Chance encounter on a train in Rome leads to lifetime of service for AFSBn-Africa employee
September 3, 2024
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LRC Italy LN employee: my love for English started as a babysitter for Army Families
August 29, 2024
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*Alerts & Closures*
Labor Day and Utility Outage
August 29, 2024
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Drivers Testing and Training Station assistant supports USAG Italy community for 15 years
August 29, 2024
Units at SETAF-AF
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The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapid forces to the United States European (EUCOM) , Africa (AFRICOM) and Central Commands (CENTCOM) areas of responsibilities.
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The 207th Military Intelligence Brigade (MIB) Theater conducts intelligence analysis, collection, and exploitation in support of Southern European Task Force-Africa (SETAF-AF) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) in order to set the intelligence architecture for the theater, disrupt trans-national and trans-regional threats and promote regional stability in Africa while building and maintaining intelligence readiness.
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Delivering the power of Army Contracting to win - EVERYDAY, ANYWHERE, EVERY-TIME!
The U.S. Army Contracting Command (ACC), its subordinate organizations and contracting centers enable Army readiness through contracting solutions in support of the Army and Unified Land Operations, anytime, anywhere. As the Army's principal buying agent, ACC ensures Soldiers have what they need to be successful, from food and clothing to bullets and bombs.
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509th Strategic Signal Battalion
Mission: Build, operate, maintain, and secure the DoD Information Network and deliver Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Information Management (C4IM) services throughout Italy, the Balkans, the Black Sea Region, NATO's Southern Flank, and Africa in order to enable the environment and speed of operations for the Warfighter.
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SETAF-AF leads and participates in multiple exercises every year, including African Lion, U.S. Africa Command's premier exercise on the continent.
Exercises build U.S. and partner militaries' readiness for contingency operations and enable interoperability. These exercises train and test command and control systems, fire and maneuver tactics, and medical techniques for the U.S. and African partner forces.
African Lion
African Lion is a multinational, combined, joint exercise led by U.S. Army's Southern European Task Force, on behalf of U.S. Africa Command.
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Promotion to U.S. Army Staff Sergeant: A bucket list pinning ceremony in Ghana
July 24, 2024
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NY National Guardsmen Strengthen Bond with Allies in Morocco
June 11, 2024
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African Lion 24 concludes with strategic success across four nations
June 7, 2024
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Maryland Army National Guard and multinational partners strengthen bonds in Senegal
June 2, 2024
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Utah National Guard’s State Partnership Program brings healthcare to underserved Moroccan people
June 2, 2024
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Exercise African Lion 2024 concludes in Senegal
June 2, 2024
Justified Accord
Justified Accord is U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual joint combined exercise in East Africa. Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) leads this joint, all-domain exercise in East Africa to promote interoperability between participants for peacekeeping operations in East Africa and build partner capacity to disrupt malign influence, aggression, and activity.
Medical Readiness Exercises (MEDREX Africa)
Medical Readiness Exercises are planned and executed by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) to build partnerships and increase interoperability and strengthen treatment capabilities between the U.S. and African partners. These three-week exercises allow both the U.S. and African military medical personnel to exchange best practices, learn each others' procedures and techniques and result in lasting partnerships between military medical professionals.
Shared Accord
Exercise Shared Accord, planned and executed by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), is an annual bilateral exercise designed to promote security cooperation and interoperability between the United States and African partners.
About us
SETAF-AF is responsible for coordinating all U.S. Army activities in Africa in support of U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa. U.S Army activities include military readiness exercises across the continent, security force assistance engagements, crisis response and enduring posture support. These activities strengthen partner networks in Africa, build partner capacity against regional and global security threats and provide strategic access for U.S. forces in contingency operations.
Contact Us
This website is maintained by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Public Affairs Office.
SETAF_PAO@army.mil
Media should contact the media branch at setaf_media@army.mil.
2024 in Photos: Photo of the Month Winners
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2023 in Photos
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Our favorite photos from January 2023.
1 / 5 U.S. Army and Italian paratroopers conduct airborne operations at Aviano Air Base, Italy, on Jan. 26, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. (U.S. Army by Cpl. Genesis Miranda) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 5 U.S Army Staff Sgt. Chief Nuamah with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) G3 Tactical Air Command, stands by prior to his promotion to Sgt. 1st Class on Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 27, 2023. Nuamah’s promotion to Sgt. 1st class is a result of the hard work and dedication he provides to SETAF-AF’s G3 and the Army as a whole. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Ernest Henderson) VIEW ORIGINAL 
3 / 5 U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade prepare to conduct an airborne operation alongside Italian Army paratroopers with the Brigata Paracadutisti "Folgore" near Aviano, Italy on Jan. 26, 2023. The 173rd is the U.S. Army's contingency response force in Europe, providing rapid forces to the United States European, Africa and Central Commands areas of responsibilities. Forward-based in Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners to build interoperability and strengthen the Alliance. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 5 U.S. Army Sgt. Carl Q. Gipson, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, high-crawls with a kettle bell during the Master Fitness Training Course (MFTC) validation lane on Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 31, 2023. The MFTC trained Soldiers in all aspects of the Army’s Physical Readiness Training system. The event qualified participants to advise Soldiers on physical readiness issues and monitor unit and individual physical readiness programs. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Ernest Henderson) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 5 U.S. Army and Italian paratroopers board an Air Force C-130 Hercules at Aviano Air Base, Italy, on Jan. 26, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. (U.S. Army by Cpl. Genesis Miranda) VIEW ORIGINAL -
Our favorite photos from February 2023.
1 / 7 U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Christopher McClurkin, right, addresses the Vice President of the Mess, U.S. Army Maj. Travis Michelena, both with the 79th Theater Sustainment Command-Forward (TSC-FWD), during the unit's dining-in ceremony in Vicenza, Italy on Nov. 2, 2023. The Dine-in was hosted to celebrate the accomplishments of members of the 79th TSC and to build camaraderie and morale. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 7 U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), teaches Kenyan nationals how to use a camera during a medical civic action program in Archer's Post Sub County Hospital, Archer’s Post, Kenya, Feb.18, 2023. The U.S. Army and Kenyan Defence Forces partnered with Samburu County Department of Health to host a free medical clinic for local residents during Justified Accord 23 at Archer’s Post Sub County Hospital. Justified Accord, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), is U.S. Africa Command's largest exercise in East Africa. This multinational exercise brings together more than 20 countries from four continents to increase partner readiness for peacekeeping missions, crisis response and humanitarian assistance. (U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Genesis Miranda) VIEW ORIGINAL 
3 / 7 Spc. Kevin Poppe, left, and Staff Sgt. Daniel Vatterott, paratroopers from Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade conduct an AT4 range during exercise Justified Accord 23 (JA23) in Isiolo, Kenya, Feb. 19, 2023. JA23 is U.S. Africa Command’s largest exercise in East Africa. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), this multinational exercise brings together more than 20 countries from four continents to increase partner readiness for peacekeeping missions, crisis response and humanitarian assistance. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 7 U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Todd Wasmund, commanding general of U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), gives a fist bump at the completion of a field training exercise during Justified Accord 2023 (JA23) in Isiolo, Kenya, Feb. 23, 2023. JA23 is U.S. Africa Command's largest exercise in East Africa. Led by SETAF-AF, this multinational exercise brings together more than 20 countries from four continents to increase partner readiness for peacekeeping missions, crisis response and humanitarian assistance. (U.S. Army Photo by Capt. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 7 A Soldier from the Kenyan Defence Forces signals to his team during a multinational field training exercise as part of Exercise Justified Accord 2023 (JA23), Feb. 21, 2023, in Isiolo, Kenya. This field training exercise is the culminating event for U.S. and partner forces, who have just completed two weeks of intensive field training. JA23 enables readiness training for U.S. Joint Forces, Kenya Defence Forces units and additional partners with a multinational Field Training Exercise. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steven Eaton) VIEW ORIGINAL 
6 / 7 U.S. Army Spc. Derek O’Brien with 2nd Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade employs a M5 modular crowd control munition during non-lethal weapons training at Justified Accord 23 in Isiolo, Kenya on Feb. 14, 2023. JA23 has approximately 1,000 participants, some as military observers, from four continents and 20 partner nations. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and partners conduct JA23 in Kenya to build readiness for the U.S. joint force, prepare regional partners for United Nations and African Union mandated missions and increase multinational interoperability. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Luke Michalski) VIEW ORIGINAL 
7 / 7 The sun begins to rise over a U.S. Army Reserve C-12 Huron, assigned to the 2-228th Fixed Wing Theater Battalion, 244th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade, Army Reserve Command, while in support of Justified Accord 23 (JA23) at Mt. Kenya, Kenya on Feb. 23, 2023. JA23 is U.S. Africa Command’s largest exercise in East Africa. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), this multinational exercise brings together more than 20 countries from four continents to increase partner readiness for peacekeeping missions, crisis response and humanitarian assistance. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson) VIEW ORIGINAL -
Our favorites from March 2023!
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4 / 8 Sgt. Terrel Johnson fires an M-4 carbine. Soldiers assigned to the 207th Military Intelligence Brigade (Theater) qualified on M-4 carbines and M17 pistols, reinforcing their preparedness for any mission. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 8 A U.S. Army soldier with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) supports the command post exercise on Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Mar. 10, 2023. Soldiers and civilian personnel from SETAF-AF join service members from the U.S. Transportation Command’s Joint Enabling Capabilities Command (JECC), U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Army Reserve, and other inter-agency organizations to set-up and operate a joint task force headquarters during an the validation exercise as part of African Lion 2023. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Samantha Powers) VIEW ORIGINAL 
6 / 8 U.S. Army paratroopers Spc. Dalton Miler and Spc. Christian Marquez, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, conduct recon on enemy activity during Alpine Star - Winter Resolve 23 in Corvara, Italy, Mar. 15, 2023. Exercise Alpine Star - Winter Resolve is an Italian Army-hosted multinational mountain and arctic warfare training exercise. Three reconnaissance platoons from the 173rd Airborne Brigade take part in a three-phase training regimen led by the Alpini Brigade to expand force capabilities by learning how to move, shoot and operate in mountainous and arctic conditions. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapidly deployable forces to the United States European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Forward deployed across Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners to build partnerships and strengthen the alliance.(U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson) VIEW ORIGINAL 
7 / 8 Infantry soldiers assigned to Battle Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, receive firing commands while preparing to engage targets during squad live-fire and tactical movement training at Poček Range in Postojna, Slovenia, Mar. 15, 2023.
The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. (U.S. Army Photo by Cpl. Alisha Grezlik) VIEW ORIGINAL
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Some of our favorites from April.
1 / 7 U.S. Army Master Sgt. Bisi Akindele, senior healthcare non-commissioned officer in charge, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Team 5014, discusses basic combat lifesaver skills with members of the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) at the MDF Barracks, Malawi, Africa, April 19, 2023. Bilateral civil affairs exchanges build military and civilian readiness for future joint humanitarian assistance and crisis response operations. The MDF supports UN Peacekeeping operations in The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with over 800 personnel. (U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Alisha Grezlik) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 7 U.S. Army Spc. Eric Aquino, Team Golf member, assigned to 4th Battalion, 319th Field Artillery Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, navigates a rope climbing obstacle during the Best Squad competition hosted by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) at Caserma Del Din, Apr. 25, 2023. The week-long competition will assess each squad on their technical and tactical proficiency, as well as their ability to work as a disciplined and cohesive team. (U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Alisha Grezlik) VIEW ORIGINAL 
3 / 7 U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to Castle Company, 54th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade, navigate to their objective during squad live-fire and tactical movement training at Poček Range in Postojna, Slovenia, April 25, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Matthew Prewitt) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 7 U.S. Army Sgt. Brandon Williams, part of Team Alpha, representing 1st Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, conducts an Army Combat Fitness Test during the Best Squad Competition hosted by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy on April 25, 2023.The competition spans four physically and mentally demanding days where competitors are tested on a variety of tactical and technical skills as they vie to be named the best squad/ best warrior.(U.S. Army photo Spc. Zachery Frost) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 7 U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade conduct an Army Combat Fitness Test during the Best Squad Competition, hosted by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy on April 25, 2023. The competition spans four physically and mentally demanding days where competitors are tested on a variety of tactical and technical skills as they vie to be named the best squad/ best warrior. (U.S. Army photo Spc. Zachery Frost) VIEW ORIGINAL 
6 / 7 U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 173rd Airborne Brigade rehearse airborne operations at Aviano Air Base in Aviano, Italy, April 21, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Raymond Randall) VIEW ORIGINAL 
7 / 7 Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces soldiers Lt. M. Fullah, left, and Lt. M. F. Nabie listen to discussion about military public affairs practices at Joint Force Command, Freetown, Sierra Leone on April 13, 2023. This engagement was part of the U.S. Africa Command's ongoing military-to-military (M2M) familiarization program. AFRICOM conducts M2Ms throughout the year, each designed to bring together countries to exchange best practices in a particular specialty to enhance their ability to work together and understand how to operate in a specific environment. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson) VIEW ORIGINAL -
Our favorite photos from May.
![Military leaders from Africa, the United States, and other partner nations participate in a tour of L'Académie Internationale De Lutte Contre (AILCT) [International Academy for the Fight against Terrorism] in Jacqueville, Côte d'Ivoire,...](https://api.army.mil/e2/c/images/2023/12/24/8ce9965d/size0-full.jpg)
1 / 6 Military leaders from Africa, the United States, and other partner nations participate in a tour of L'Académie Internationale De Lutte Contre (AILCT) [International Academy for the Fight against Terrorism] in Jacqueville, Côte d'Ivoire, May 9, 2023 as part of African Land Forces Summit (ALFS) 2023. Sponsored by the U.S. Army Chief of Staff and co-hosted by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa and the Armed Forces of Côte d'Ivoire, ALFS 2023 brings together senior leaders from across Africa and other partner nations, May 8-12, to solidify relationships, exchange information on current topics of mutual interest and encourage cooperation in addressing challenges. This year’s theme is “Addressing security challenges through civil-military partnerships.” (U.S. Army photo by Senior Airman Elijah Dority)
VIEW ORIGINAL![Military leaders from Africa, the United States, and other partner nations tour L'Académie Internationale De Lutte Contre (AILCT) [International Academy for the Fight against Terrorism] during African Land Forces Summit (ALFS) 2023 in...](https://api.army.mil/e2/c/images/2023/12/24/099cefb1/size0-full.jpg)
2 / 6 Military leaders from Africa, the United States, and other partner nations tour L'Académie Internationale De Lutte Contre (AILCT) [International Academy for the Fight against Terrorism] during African Land Forces Summit (ALFS) 2023 in Jacqueville, Côte d'Ivoire, May 9, 2023. Sponsored by the U.S. Army Chief of Staff and co-hosted by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa and the Armed Forces of Côte d'Ivoire, ALFS 2023 brings together senior leaders from across Africa and other partner nations, May 8-12, to solidify relationships, exchange information on current topics of mutual interest and encourage cooperation in addressing challenges. This year’s theme is “Addressing security challenges through civil-military partnerships.” (U.S. Army photo by Senior Airman Elijah Dority)
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3 / 6 Lt. Gen. Sikabwe Fall, Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, asks a question during an African Land Forces Summit (ALFS) 2023 plenary session, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, May 9, 2023. Sponsored by the U.S. Army Chief of Staff and co-hosted by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa and the Armed Forces of Côte d'Ivoire, ALFS 2023 brings together senior leaders from across Africa and other partner nations, May 8-12, to solidify relationships, exchange information on current topics of mutual interest and encourage cooperation in addressing challenges. This year’s theme is “Addressing security challenges through civil-military partnerships.” (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Zachery Frost) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 6 Members of the Tunisian Armed Forces execute a Military Freefall from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during a combined arms live-fire exercise as part of African Lion 23, May 31, 2023, Ben Ghilouf Training Area, Tunisia. Eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel will participate in African Lion 23, U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in multiple countries to include Tunisia from May 13-June 18, 2023. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Nelson)
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5 / 6 U.S. Army Spc. Philip Sisson a Helicopter Repairer for the 1-111th Aviation Regiment, 78th Aviation Troop Command, Georgia Army National Guard conducts his section of a Forty hour preventive maintenance service on a HH-60M Blackhawk helicopter prior to training operations June 1, 2023 in Agadir, Morocco during Exercise African Lion 23. The Forty hour maintenance check is performed on all the unit's aircrafts after every forty hours of flight and will be conducted several times while supporting approximately 2,000 multi-national military personnel during Exercise African Lion 23.(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Cameron Boyd)
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6 / 6 U.S. Army soldier doing pull-ups as part of the U.S. Army Murph challenge on Memorial day in Agadir, Morocco May 29, 2023. Eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel will participate in African Lion 2023, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia from May 13-June 18, 2023. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Tyler Rickenbach)
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Our favorites from June.
1 / 8 Capt. Dominique Mosbly, U.S. Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Team 21 Chief provides a Ghanaian youth with a personal hygiene product at a school in Northern Ghana. Team 21 coordinated with the Ghanaian Armed Forces to deliver multiple donations of personal hygiene products to children at several local schools in Northern Ghana during their deployment to Africa in support of SETAF-AF. The 412th Civil Affairs Battalion, part of the 360th Civil Affairs Brigade, 352nd Civil Affairs Command, assisted with the coordination and execution of multiple civil-military events during their 9-month deployment to Africa in support of SETAF-AF. (Photo courtesy of 412th Civil Affairs Battalion.) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 8 A U.S. Army Soldier from 4th Battalion, 319th Field Artillery Regiment, 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne) discusses drop zone security with a Moroccan Soldier in Ben Guerir, Morocco on June 10, 2023 during Exercise African Lion 23. Eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel will participate in African Lion 2023, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia from May 13-June 18, 2023. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Mikayla Fritz)
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3 / 8 U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Holly Johnson, a flight paramedic with the 1-111th Aviation Regiment, 78th Aviation Troop Command, Georgia Army National Guard, signals to her crew aboard a HH-60M Blackhawk that she is prepared to be lifted by hoist extraction during simulated medical extraction in Tifnit, Morocco on June 13, 2023 during Exercise African Lion 2023. The 1-111th is providing training and medical aviation support during the exercise. Eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel will participate in AL23, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in Africa from May 13-June 18, 2023 (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Cameron Boyd) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 8 The crew of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter assigned to Georgia National Guard’s 1-111th Aviation Regiment, 78th Aviation Troop Command, lands during a medevac exercise June 13, 2023, near Tan Tan, Morocco as part of African Lion 2023. Eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel are participating in African Lion 2023, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise is occurring in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia from May 13-June 18, 2023. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Jeffrey Brenchley) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 8 Petty Officer 1st Class Opoku Amankwah, Ghana Armed Forces, practices marksmanship fundamentals near Daboya, Ghana, June 7, 2023, to increase lethality as part of African Lion. African Lion is an annual training exercise between the U.S. and participating African nations designed to increase interoperability and build partnerships. Approximately 8,000 personnel and 18 nations will participate in African Lion 2023 from May 13 - June 18, 2023. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Nathan Baker) VIEW ORIGINAL 
6 / 8 A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft takes off from Tamale International Airport, Ghana, June 4, 2023 following a supply mission in support of exercise African Lion 2023 (AL23). Eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel will participate in AL23, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia from May 13 – June 18, 2023. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Nathan Baker) VIEW ORIGINAL 
7 / 8 U.S. Army Sgt. Andrew Wilwol, a flight paramedic with the 1-111th Aviation Regiment, 78th Aviation Troop Command, Georgia Army National Guard, watches the Moroccan coast pass along below him while enroute to Inezgane Airfield In Agadir, Morocco, June 11, 2023, during Exercise African Lion 2023. Eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel will participate in AL23, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia from May 13-June 18, 2023. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Cameron Boyd) VIEW ORIGINAL 
8 / 8 A U.S. Army Soliders assigned to 2nd Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment fireman carries another Soldier to the opposite side of the football field during their physical training competition on Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy on Jun. 6, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapidly deployable forces to the United States European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Forward deployed across Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners to build partnerships and strengthen the alliance. (Photo by U.S. Army Pfc. Samantha Powers) VIEW ORIGINAL -
Our favorites from July.
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4 / 7 U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to the 1st Battalion 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, descend onto Juliet Drop Zone, Pordenone, Italy during airborne operation on July 26, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. (U.S. Army photo by Paolo Bovo) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 7 U.S. Army Col. Michael Kloepper, outgoing commander of 173rd Airborne Brigade, right, hugs Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew D. Carlson during his award ceremony before change of command ceremony for 173rd Airborne Brigade at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, July 6, 2023. During the ceremony, Col. Michael Kloepper relinquished command to Col. Joshua M. Gaspard. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. (U.S. Army Photo by Davide Dalla Massara) VIEW ORIGINAL 
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7 / 7 U.S. Army 1st Sgt. James Williams, first sergeant of Headquarters Support Company (HSC) oversees the passing of the guidon during the change of command ceremony at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy July 24, 2023. HSC supports SETAF-AF in providing U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Zachery Frost) VIEW ORIGINAL -
1 / 5 Senegalese army Sgt. Baye Seny Ndiaye conducts a mine detection training lane during Senegal’s first Intermediate Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) Course in Bargny, Senegal, Aug. 24, 2023. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Brian Andries) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 5 Senegalese army Sgt. Bassirou Tamba catches some air after completing a mine detection training lane during Senegal’s first UN Intermediate Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Defeat Course in Bargny, Senegal, Aug. 24, 2023. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Brian Andries) VIEW ORIGINAL 
3 / 5 U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Quincy Baumeister, training team lead from the 763rd EOD Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Co., assists Senegalese Army Sgt. Baye Seny Ndiaye with his bomb suit during a training lane at the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) Training Center in Bargny, Senegal, Aug. 24, 2023. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Brian Andries) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 5 A French service member gives range instructions to U.S. Army Soldiers with the 489th Civil Affairs Battalion, Southern European Task Force, Africa near Arta, Djibouti, August 10, 2023. Members of the French and U.S. armed forces met at a French-owned small arms range for firing practice to strengthen partner engagement. (U.S. National Guard photo by Sgt. Jalen Miller) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 5 U.S. Army Sgt. Pedro Cruz, 489th Civil Affairs Battalion, reaches the signout desk with a group of Japanese soldiers following the Task Force Tomahawk “Halfway 15” ruck march at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, August 12, 2023. Cruz and members of the Southern European Task Force Africa invited members of the Japanese Self-Defense Force to take part in the late-night ruck march to promote foreign engagement on Camp Lemonnier. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Jalen Miller) VIEW ORIGINAL Our favorite photos from August.
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The best photos from September!
1 / 7 U.S. Army Soldiers with the 294th Engineer Support Company, Missouri National Guard, use an excavator to load dirt into a dump truck at an undisclosed location in Africa, Sept. 3, 2023. The 294th ESC provides construction and maintenance capabilities to outstations and remote locations across the continent. (Department of Defense photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dylan Gentile) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 7 Sgt. Charles Gingold performs a kettlebell swing during the 307th Military Intelligence Battalion "Foundation Day." Soldiers competed in a combat-focused workout that reinforced the Battalion's foundational values. The focus of Foundation Day was to increase and develop Soldiers on Battalion Foundation knowledge while building awareness of the available assets on Caserma Ederle. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL 
3 / 7 U.S. Army 1st Sgt. James Williams, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), loads an M17 pistol magazine for the range at Cao Malnisio, Pordenone, Italy on Sept. 26, 2023. Soldiers conducted an Engagement Skills Trainer Exercise the week prior to their qualification to ensure maximum efficiency with their weapons. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Bobbi-Jo McGinley) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 7 The United States flag hangs over the start line of the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) 9/11 solidarity run at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, on Sept. 11, 2023. The run was organized to pay respect and honor those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 7 U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Ryan McCrum, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participates in a kettlebell carry and sprint event during the SETAF-AF monthly Lion’s Legacy event on Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Sept. 8, 2023. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. VIEW ORIGINAL 
6 / 7 A Soldier assigned to the 522 Military Intelligence Battalion low crawls with his M4 while competing in the 552d's inaugural 'TF Stalker' competition. Company D, 522 Military Intelligence Battalion served as the Long Range Surveillance Detachment (LRSD) for the 2d Armored Division during Operation DESERT STORM. They pioneered mobile terrain reconnaissance using civilian pickup trucks that could be transported by CH-47 helicopters. This initiative involved three teams, collectively known as TASK FORCE STALKER, conducting 30-40 mile route reconnaissance missions before being extracted. VIEW ORIGINAL 
7 / 7 U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Soldiers join Italian Alpini and dignitaries at Mount Pasubio, Italy, Sept. 3, 2023. They gathered to commemorate over 5,000 Italian and Austrian soldiers who died during one of the bloodiest battles of WWI. VIEW ORIGINAL -
Our favorite photos from October.
1 / 6 VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 6 U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) celebrate after winning the Lions Legacy Physical Fitness Assessment event on Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Oct. 13, 2023. The Lions Legacy series is designed to strengthen unit cohesion and comradery across SETAF-AF headquarters through physical fitness challenges. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Samantha Powers) VIEW ORIGINAL 
3 / 6 A Soldier assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade assembles signal intelligence equipment during the 522nd’s annual signal intelligence exercise, Gallant Crew. The annual training certifies Soldiers in single-source intelligence disciplines. Gallant Crew 24 ensures that the 207th MIB(T) is trained and ready to provide intelligence support to SETAF-AF, USERAF, and AFRICOM. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 6 U.S. Army Spc. Donald Plazola, a M249 squad automatic weapon gunner assigned to Able Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, provides security during a North and West Africa Response Force (NARF) readiness exercise at Aviano Air Base, Italy on Oct. 09, 2023. The drills ensure readiness to execute the no-notice deployment capability of U.S. Africa Command’s NARF made up of elements of the 173rd Airborne Brigade and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), based in Vicenza, Italy. The NARF's mission is crisis and contingency response in North and West Africa, including to protect U.S. interests in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Genesis Miranda) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 6 U.S. Army Capt. Emilie Sanderson, Southern European Task Force, Africa Headquarters and Headquarters battalion operations officer (left), and Lt. Col. Leah Sanchez, Director of Emergency Services, U.S. Army Garrison Italy and Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) (right), view the 250 centimeter billboard depicting SETAF helicopters assisting recovery efforts after the Vajont Dam disaster in Longarone, Italy on October 8th, 2023. On October 9th, 1963, a mega-tsunami at the Vajont Dam caused by landslides resulted in one of the worst man-made disasters in history. SETAF-AF provided the first helicopters to assist with recovery efforts, as well as medical supplies and personnel. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Brian Andries) VIEW ORIGINAL 
6 / 6 Capt. Emilie Anderson and an Alpini veteran,who assisted in recovering Vajont Dam disaster victims, switch their covers. On October 9th, 1963, a mega-tsunami at the Vajont Dam caused by landslides resulted in one of the worst man-made disasters in history. SETAF-AF provided the first helicopters to assist with recovery efforts, as well as medical supplies and personnel. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL -
Our favorite moments from November.
1 / 7 U.S. Army Service Members from Task Force Tomahawk and Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa receive a brief before they take part in the water obstacle course during the French Desert Commando Course at Le centre d'entraînement au combat de Djibouti in Arta Plage, Djibouti, Nov. 27, 2023. Since 2015, the French Forces stationed in Djibouti have invited U.S. service members with CJTF-HOA to participate in the course. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Haden Tolbert) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 7 U.S. Army SGT Liliana Munday, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa liaison officer, practices combative movements during the French Desert Commando Course in Djibouti, Nov. 29, 2023. Munday was one of 40 U.S. service members to participate in the FDCC, a rigorous course designed to teach desert survival skills and tactics. (U.S. Army photo by SGT Haden Tolbert) VIEW ORIGINAL 
3 / 7 U.S. Army Spc. Charles Churchill, a Soldier assigned to Combined Joint task Force - Horn of Africa performs a physical assessment during the French Desert Commando Course Nov. 26, at the Centre Dentrainment Au Combat Djibouti. Participants who successfully completed the training, which was hosted by the hosted by the French 5th Overseas Interarms Regiment, received the prestigious desert commando badge (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Haden Tolbert) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 7 Malawi Defence Force soldier Cpl. Joyce Dulla, assigned to 94th Brigade, pulls security during the Malawi Section Commanders course on Nov. 7, 2023 at Kazumu Barracks, Lilongwe, Malawi. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) has partnered with the MDF since 2014 to develop and strengthen noncommissioned officer training. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kevin J. Eros) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 7 Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Walters, a senior instructor with the 7th Army Training Command's Combined Arms Training Center, teaches a land navigation and map reading course to Malawi Defence Force (MDF) noncommissioned officers at the Malawi Armed Forces College headquarters building, in Salima, Malawi, Nov. 10, 2023. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) has partnered with the MDF since 2014 to develop and strengthen noncommissioned officer training. This engagement, part of a initiative to expand collaboration between MDF and U.S. noncommissioned officers, included training and instruction of Malawian NCO instructors on the updated co-developed curriculum that will assist the MDF in creating well rounded NCOs. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Alisha Grezlik) VIEW ORIGINAL 
6 / 7 A Malawi Defence Force soldier, assigned to 94th Brigade, pulls security during the Malawi Section Commanders course on Nov. 7, 2023 at Kazumu Barracks, Lilongwe, Malawi. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) has partnered with the MDF since 2014 to develop and strengthen noncommissioned officer training. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kevin J. Eros) VIEW ORIGINAL 
7 / 7 U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Christopher McClurkin, right, addresses the Vice President of the Mess, U.S. Army Maj. Travis Michelena, both with the 79th Theater Sustainment Command-Forward (TSC-FWD), during the unit's dining-in ceremony in Vicenza, Italy on Nov. 2, 2023. The Dine-in was hosted to celebrate the accomplishments of members of the 79th TSC and to build camaraderie and morale. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Wilson) VIEW ORIGINAL -
Some of our favorite moments this month.
1 / 8 A camel relaxes between rides during a Women’s Bazaar at Air Base 201, Niger, Dec. 2, 2023. The event enriched American cultural awareness, while the funds raised had a significant economic impact to the communities surrounding the base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Rose Gudex) VIEW ORIGINAL 
2 / 8 A local police officer stands next to a community of Vo’ flag during the 80th anniversary commemoration of an aerial battle that took place Dec. 28, 1943, in Piazzale Giorgio Zattarin, Zovon di Vo', Padua, Italy, Dec. 28, 2023.
On December 28th 1943, more than 70 axis fighters engaged and shot down 10 Fifteenth Air Force B-24 “Liberator” bombers from the 376th Heavy Bombardment Group (HBG) over the skies of Northern Italy. The 376th HBG, based in San Pancrazio, “San Pan”, in the heel of Italy, was tasked with destroying the railroad marshaling yards in Vicenza. All six aircraft from 512th Squadron, and two aircraft each from the 514th and 515th Squadrons were lost. VIEW ORIGINAL
3 / 8 U.S. Army 1st Lt. Colt Woodhouse, assigned to Bastion Company, 54th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade, instructs paratroopers on cold load operations, during training for the North and West Africa Response Force (NARF) at Aviano Air Base, Italy on Dec. 18, 2023. With a focus on Africa, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) provides U.S. Africa Command with a joint task force headquarters capability and the NARF, poised to respond to any contingency to protect U.S. persons, facilities and interests. The NARF's mission is crisis and contingency response in North and West Africa, including protecting U.S. interests in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kevin J. Eros) VIEW ORIGINAL 
4 / 8 U.S. Army SGT Liliana Munday holds her French Desert Commando pin Dec. 19, 2023, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. Munday was one of 40 U.S. service members to go through the most recent iteration of the French Desert Commando Course. Established more than 50 years ago, the course teaches desert survival skills and tactics. (Department of Defense photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dylan Gentile) VIEW ORIGINAL 
5 / 8 Chaplain Maj. Sharon Browne holds a folded American flag following the U.S. Army Garrison Italy retirement ceremony. Browne retired after 33 years of service. Most of Browne’s tenure as an Army chaplain has been focused on creating a more inclusive environment within the chaplaincy. (U.S. Army photo by 1st. Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL 
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7 / 8 A Soldier with Task Force Tomahawk aims over the crest of a hill during Exercise Wakri while a teammate taps him on the shoulder near Dikhill, Djibouti, Dec. 4, 2023. The platoon of American Soldiers played the role of oppositional forces while the French defended the region. (Department of Defense photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dylan Gentile) VIEW ORIGINAL 
8 / 8 U.S. Army Paratroopers assigned to the 54th Engineer Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade, conduct joint air assault operations with HH-60G Pave Hawk Helicopters from 56th Rescue Squadron, 31st Fighter Wing, at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy Dec 05, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility. The 56th Rescue Squadron, based in Aviano Air Base, Italy, provides a rapidly-deployable, worldwide combat rescue and reaction force response utilizing HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters. The 56th RQS integrates with the Guardian Angels weapon system and other special forces to support insertion, extraction and recovery of both U.S. and allied combatants. The squadron offers long-range rescue, humanitarian assistance, non-combatant evacuation and disaster relief capabilities for USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and NATO in peacetime, contingency and wartime operations. (U.S. Army photo by Paolo Bovo) VIEW ORIGINAL
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