Saturday August 3, 2024
U.S. soldiers, as part of the East African Response Force, conduct training during a multi-day exercise at Cooperative Security Location Kismayo, Somalia, on July 21, 2024. The purpose of this exercise was for the EARF to practice rapid deployment, provide security reinforcement support, and facilitate combat casualty care training with other U.S. military forces stationed at CSL Kismayo. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Mark Davis)
Kismayo (HOL) — The East Africa Response Force (EARF), part of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), has carried out a crisis response exercise at Cooperative Security Location (CSL) Kismayo. The exercise aimed to enhance rapid deployment, security reinforcement, and combat casualty care training in the region.
The EARF, comprising members from Task Force Paxton of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, is designed to respond swiftly to crises in the AFRICOM area of operations. The recent exercise highlighted the unit's capacity to provide limited-defense crisis response and support U.S. embassies and missions as necessary.
The primary focus of the exercise was to test the EARF's rapid deployment and security reinforcement capabilities for protecting military personnel. Combat casualty care training was included to ensure readiness for potential real-world scenarios.
Col. James Riley, commander of CJTF-HOA, stated, "Our ability to quickly deploy and reinforce security measures is crucial for maintaining the safety of our personnel and supporting our allies in the region."
Maj. Gen. William Zana, CJTF-HOA commander, added, "Our operations are vital for regional stability and the protection of U.S. and coalition interests. These exercises demonstrate our commitment to a 'no-fail' mission across the area of operation."