DEFENDER is the Army’s largest annual opportunity to exercise moving personnel and equipment into theater across modes for initial and follow-on operations critical to Large Scale Combat Operations. Led by U.S. Army Europe and Africa, the exercise focuses on the strategic deployment of CONUS-based forces, employment of Army Prepositioned Stock and follow-on exercises demonstrating lethality and interoperability with Allies and partners

DEFENDER 25 Outreach tour
DEFENDER 25 Infographic

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Video by Jorge Gomez
Who is Chaplain Ledbetter?
Irwin Army Community Hospital
Sept. 13, 2024 | 7:14
Chaplain (CPT) Steven Ledbetter opens up about his journey to becoming the new chaplain at Irwin Army Community Hospital. With over two decades of ministry experience, Chaplain Ledbetter discusses the profound calling that led him to serve as a chaplain, first in trauma centers and now at IACH. He emphasizes his passion for walking alongside both patients and staff during their most challenging moments, offering support, hope, and a steady presence. Uniquely blending faith, humor, and an understanding of diverse belief systems, he delves into the importance of caring for the staff as a means to ensure the best patient care, fostering morale and ethical guidance across the hospital. With heartfelt reflections on spirituality, purpose, and his role as a confidential advisor, Chaplain Ledbetter shares his philosophy of compassionate service.

Music title "I Walk with Ghosts" by Scott Buckley (@ScottBuckley) – released under CC-BY 4.0.
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enlightenedTo find information about filing a claim related to exercise DEFENDER activities, visit Claims Information and select your country.