Soldiers from Impact Company, 328th Forward Support Company, 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment belonging to Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard deliver medical equipment to Djibouti Adventist Health Center, April 7, 2024, Djibouti City, Djibouti.

Soldiers from Impact Company, 328th Forward Support Company, 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment belonging to Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard deliver medical equipment to Djibouti Adventist Health Center, April 7, 2024, Djibouti City, Djibouti.

U.S. Army Spc. Gabriel Rudicel, an air traffic control operator with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion, discusses an incoming flight with U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Deitrick Garcia, an air traffic control equipment repairer with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion at Baledogle Military Airfield, April 11, 2024. The 3-58th AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Deitrick Garcia, an air traffic control equipment repairer with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion drives in front of the passenger terminal at Baledogle Military Airfield, April 11, 2024. The 3-58th AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

U.S. Army Sgt Deonte Garvey, an airfield management element noncommissioned officer with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion, poses for a photo at Magagoni Airfield, Kenya on April 10, 2024. The 3-58th AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

TF Paxton Medics train with Marines, Air Force, and French Security Forces on K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care. 26 Mar. 2024, Djibouti, Africa.

A bird flies near the runway at Magagoni Airfield, Kenya on April 10, 2024. The 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

TF Paxton Medics train with Marines, Air Force, and French Security Forces on K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care. 26 Mar. 2024, Djibouti, Africa.

TF Paxton Medics train with Marines, Air Force, and French Security Forces on K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care. 26 Mar. 2024, Djibouti, Africa.

U.S. Army Sgt. Tyler Ripley, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion performs a foreign object debris check on the runway at Magagoni Airfield, Kenya on April 10, 2024. The 3-58th AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

TF Paxton Medics train with Marines, Air Force, and French Security Forces on K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care. 26 Mar. 2024, Djibouti, Africa.

TF Paxton Medics train with Marines, Air Force, and French Security Forces on K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care. 26 Mar. 2024, Djibouti, Africa.

U.S. Army Sgt. Tyler Ripley, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion performs a foreign object debris check on the runway at Magagoni Airfield, Kenya on April 10, 2024. The 3-58th AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

U.S. Army Spc. Gabriel Rudicel, an air traffic control operator with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion, talks on the radio as he watches an aircraft arrive at Baledogle Military Airfield, April 11, 2024. The 3-58th AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

U.S. Army Sgt. Tyler Ripley, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion performs a foreign object debris check on the runway at Magagoni Airfield, Kenya on April 10, 2024. The 3-58th AOB provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

An MV-22 Osprey lands at Magagoni Airfield, Kenya on April 10, 2024. The 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion provides air traffic control and airfield management support for outstations within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)

U.S. Army Sgt. Travis Franklin Jr., an air traffic controller with the 3-58th Airfield Operations Battalion, speaks on the radio with a pilot at Magagoni Airfield, Kenya on April 10, 2024. Controllers are responsible for coordinating aircraft movements and logging flights to ensure safe and efficient operations. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Kevin Nious)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army Spc. Angela Garcia, combat medic with Task Force Paxton, Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conducts joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)

U.S. Army medics, Spc. Angela Garcia (front) and Spc. Olivia Gutowski (back), Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army medics from Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army medics from Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army medics from Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army Sgt. Tiffany Cunningham (left), Spc. Isabel Hiller (right) and Staff Sgt. Cody Seese (back), combat medics with Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army combat medics from Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army medics from Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)

U.S. Army medics, Sgt. Payton Royer (right) and Spc. Sarah Foster (left) Task Force Paxton, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conduct joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)


CJTF-HOA & Camp Lemonnier Host K9 Veterans Day 5K & Military Dog Demonstrations By SSgt Juan Paz Date: March 23, 2024 DJIBOUTI, East Africa – Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and Camp Lemonnier Working Dogs commemorated K9 Veterans Day on March 16, 2024, with a series of impactful demonstrations highlighting the invaluable role of military working dogs (MWDs) in East Africa. Service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier engaged in a spirited 5K run, setting the stage for a showcase of precision and discipline by the highly trained K9 units. From detection training to patrol work and obedience drills, attendees witnessed the unwavering dedication and readiness of these canine teams. "Maintaining operational readiness is paramount in this dynamic environment," remarked Senior Airman Tessa Spare, a seasoned military working dog handler with CJTF-HOA. "Our continuous training ensures that we are prepared to face any threat, anywhere." Integral to their readiness is the capability of handlers to administer immediate medical care to their K9 partners in the field. Trained in K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), handlers play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of their canine companions and optimizing force posture and capabilities. The event also served as a solemn tribute to K9 Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of military working dogs past and present. “We as handlers know the sacrifices our K9s make” Spare reflected. “They do everything they can do to protect us. So when they retire, it's our turn to take care of them and give them the best retirement they can and K9 Veterans Day is one way we get to honor them.” As the event concluded, the resounding message echoed: readiness is non-negotiable, and the bond between service members and their K9 counterparts is unbreakable. Together, they stand as a testament to the commitment to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. CJTF-HOA's presence in East Afric

U.S. Army Spc. Kira Angstadt, combat medic, Task Force Paxton, Alpha Company, 2nd Squadron, 104th Cavalry Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conducts joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Cody Seese, combat medic, Task Force Paxton, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Pennsylvania National Guard conducts joint medical evacuation cold-load training aboard a KC-130J aircraft at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the training is to ensure interoperability with key U.S. military assets to expedite patient transfers to and from an aircraft in the event life saving measures and medical evacuation are requested. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Cpt. Amanda Mayer)