DEFENDER 25 Outreach tour

 

 

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 Infographic

Videos
Video by Jorge Gomez
The Badge & the Pre-Med
Irwin Army Community Hospital
May 16, 2025 | 3:00
SPC Cristian Nunez, a Biomedical Equipment Technician at Irwin Army Community Hospital, has his eyes set on something much bigger than a badge. He’s chasing a dream to become an Army doctor—and the Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB) is a proving ground for that future. Nunez opens up about why this challenge matters to him, how it’s pushing him beyond his comfort zone, and what it means to be prepared to save lives on the battlefield.

The EFMB is one of the Army’s most prestigious and difficult individual skill badges, awarded to those who demonstrate exceptional competence in tactical medical and Soldier skills. Candidates are tested on land navigation, casualty care under fire, medical evacuation techniques, and must endure grueling physical and mental trials. Historically, fewer than 1 in 3 candidates earn the badge, with pass rates ranging from 18 to 33 percent.

Watch as SPC Nunez carries more than gear—he carries a vision for the future.
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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.