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 Ayako Watsuji
#Army250 Soldier Spotlight_1SG Eric Douse, U.S. Army Aviation Battalion-Japan
U.S. Army Garrison - Japan
April 28, 2025 | 1:05
June 14 will mark the 250th Army Birthday. The central birthday theme is “This We’ll Defend,” which highlights the Army’s purpose of fighting and winning our nation’s wars.

As we celebrate #Army250 and reflect on the rich history and legacy of service, sacrifice and dedication, the U.S. Army Garrison Japan Public Affairs will also be highlighting some Soldiers to tell their story as part of our “Soldier Spotlight” series.

First Sgt. Eric Douse, known to his Soldiers as “Top,” is assigned to U.S. Army Aviation Battalion-Japan. He is a tireless trainer of personnel who has been in the Army for 17 years and counting.

In this vignette, Douse shares the story of why he joined the Army and why he continues to serve.

#Army250 #SoldierStories #MakeADifference #BeAllYouCanBe
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