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

Videos
Video by Alexander Goad
Great Texas Freedom Fest video PSA #2
502nd Air Base Wing
Feb. 26, 2025 | 0:30
The Great Texas Freedom Fest is the upcoming Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston open house, which is free for all to attend. Community members will have the opportunity to explore JBSA-Fort Sam Houston’s premier military installation at the Great Texas Freedom Fest from 3 to 9:30 p.m. on April 12, 2025. Those who plan on attending should enter JBSA-Fort Sam Houston through Harry Wurzbach Road. The theme is “United in Service,” and the open house will include science, technology, engineering, and math, or STEM, interactive displays, fitness programs and competitions, military demos, as well as music performances from the Air Force’s “Band of the West,” the 323rd Army Band “Fort Sam’s Own” and the “Spazmatics.” There will also be fireworks and multiple flyovers. Visitors should keep in mind that weapons of any kind, outside food and drinks, and coolers are prohibited, and all bags will be searched. Please leave pets at home, with the exception of service animals. However, lawn chairs and hearing protection are welcome and encouraged. (U.S. Air Force video by Alexander Zolton Goad)
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Press Information

enlightenedTo find information about filing a claim related to exercise DEFENDER activities, visit Claims Information and select your country.