4th SFAB Advisors host Key Leader Symposium to enhance SFA enterprise

By Capt. Aaron BlevinsJune 17, 2024

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade (4th SFAB) hosted a Key Leader Symposium from June 10-14, bringing together Advisors and leaders of all ranks throughout the unit, with joint Air Force representation, to enhance the global security force enterprise. The event focused on strategic and innovative solutions while developing future strategies for the enterprise and cooperation with NATO allies and partners.

4th SFAB Commander Col. Johnny Casiano addresses the key leader symposium attendees
4th SFAB Commander Col. Johnny Casiano addresses Advisors during the Key Leader Symposium (Photo Credit: Capt. Aaron Blevins) VIEW ORIGINAL

Col. Johnny Casiano, commander of 4th SFAB, opened the symposium with a keynote speech emphasizing the importance of continued readiness while developing towards strengthening the organization through challenging discussions and remaining a ready fighting force. "In an increasingly interconnected world, our strength lies in SFAB’s ability to be a ready fighting force and be infused where needed to succeed," he said.

Maj. Gen. Mark Landes, current special assistant to the commanding general of United States Army Forces Command and former SFAC commanding general, held a brief about the importance and continuing growth of the SFAC enterprise, followed by a question-and-answer session for attendees.

4th SFAB Advisors work collaboratively during breakout sessions at the key leader symposium
4th SFAB Advisors work collaboratively during breakout sessions at the key leader symposium (Photo Credit: Capt. Aaron Blevins) VIEW ORIGINAL

Breakout groups facilitated hands-on training and practical exercises, ensuring participants gained valuable skills and knowledge. "The key leader symposium is a great event where we can bring the entire brigade together to work on discrete and hard problems that will continue to evolve this organization," noted Lt. Col. Jason Murray, 4th Battalion’s commander.

Breakout sessions were a highlight of the symposium, fostering connections and collaborations that will bolster future operations. Participants engaged in meaningful dialogue, exchanging ideas, and forming partnerships that enhance global security efforts throughout NATO.

4th SFAB Advisors come together after the brigade pt event
1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – 4th SFAB Advisors participate in a brigade pt event during the key leader symposium (Photo Credit: Capt. Aaron Blevins) VIEW ORIGINAL
4th SFAB Advisors participate in Rifle Ball during brigade pt
2 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – 4th SFAB Advisors participate in Rifle Ball during brigade pt (Photo Credit: Capt. Aaron Blevins) VIEW ORIGINAL
4th SFAB Advisors participate in Rifle Ball during the brigade pt event
3 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – 4th SFAB Advisors participate in Rifle Ball during the brigade pt event (Photo Credit: Capt. Aaron Blevins) VIEW ORIGINAL

The symposium concluded with a PT event and breakfast, solidifying the hard work from the week with camaraderie. Groups also gave presentations of the developed solutions and plans to the commander and team, with open discussions and feedback provided. These plans will continue to move into the planning processes with development over the next six months, culminating in the next key leader symposium.