Serve in Europe

Welcome to U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF), the premier joint, coalition, and theater warfighting headquarters in the Army. Known as America’s “Sword of Freedom,” our purpose is clear: to provide credible, combat-ready forces to defend U.S. interests, deter aggression, and, if deterrence fails, defeat our enemies.

Since 1942, USAREUR-AF has played a critical role in establishing and sustaining peace in Europe and Africa, and today, over 80 years later, we find ourselves at another critical juncture in history. Global ongoing conflicts have spurred rapid innovation and transformation, demanding agile and forward-thinking leaders to navigate the most dynamic and challenging security environment in decades.

Your Career at USAREUR-AF

At USAREUR-AF, we offer more than just a duty assignment – we offer a defining chapter in your career in the U.S. Army. This command emphasizes strategic thinking, adaptability, and proactive problem-solving in a rapidly evolving security landscape. Through advanced military exercises, we enhance interoperability with our 31 NATO Allies and partners while leveraging emerging technologies like AI to improve decision-making speed and effectiveness. Successfully operating in multinational environments demands confidential lead from any position—above, across the staff, and below. You have a critical role to play in deterring aggression and defending U.S. interests.

USAREUR-AF is also at the forefront of restoring global deterrence and driving Army transformation. By integrating next-generation command and control systems, fostering NATO convergence, and experimenting with new technologies and innovations, we are shaping the future of warfighting. This transformation is not just about adapting to change – it’s about leading it.

Our Command will ruthlessly prioritize warfighting but always remain focused on our people. We are guided by principles of teamwork, relentless pursuit of objectives, and bold innovation. USAREUR-AF has a proud legacy and is tackling the challenging and dynamic security situations in Europe and Africa with the capability and tenacity to face down any threat. Embrace the opportunities here to grow, innovate, and lead with confidence. We look forward to seeing the impact you will make in this command.

This video highlights the experiences of U.S. Army staff officers serving in Europe. They speak on unique responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities that come with planning, coordinating, and executing operations alongside NATO allies and partners. Through personal stories and professional insights, staff officers share how their service in Europe strengthens transatlantic security and contributes to mission success. Play
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Testimonials - This video highlights the experiences of U.S. Army staff officers serving in Europe. They speak on unique responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities that come with planning, coordinating, and executing operations alongside NATO allies and partners. Through personal stories and professional insights, staff officers share how their service in Europe strengthens transatlantic security and contributes to mission success.
Your Training at USAREUR-AF

A USAREUR-AF assignment offers unparalleled training opportunities. Our diverse AOR provides access to dozens of exercises annually, ranging from challenging arctic training in Norway to valuable military exchanges in Mozambique and across the European theater. Notably, USAREUR-AF is leading the Army’s critical Transformation in Contact (TiC) initiative, with rotations at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center shaping the future of Army training and equipping.

This means Soldiers stationed here are not just participating in current operations, but actively defining the Army of tomorrow, gaining invaluable experience in cutting-edge tactics, technologies, and multinational collaboration – skills that will be highly sought after throughout their careers.

Your Family at USAREUR-AF

USAREUR-AF is deeply committed to supporting Soldiers and their families, ensuring a fulfilling experience both on and off duty. We prioritize simplifying access to essential services, including quality housing, dining, and childcare. Currently, we’re investing $18.1 billion over the next 5 years in 319 projects to modernize family housing, ensuring safe, high-quality living conditions that meet CONUS standards.

Families will find robust support through Army Community Services (ACS), offering programs addressing deployments, parenting, finances, and PCS transitions, alongside financial readiness classes and one-on-one counseling. Opportunities for employment are readily available, with recurring job fairs featuring local and worldwide employers, plus resources for resume building, interview skills, and exploring home-based business opportunities

Beyond essential support, USAREUR-AF offers a vibrant lifestyle. Enjoy intramural sports, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and incredible outdoor recreation opportunities. School Liaison Officers and comprehensive School Support Services ease the transition for children, complemented by the exceptional education provided by DoDEA schools.


For families joining the USAREUR-AF team, the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) provides an exceptional educational experience for students of all ages. DoDEA schools offer a comprehensive and globally-focused curriculum, boasting a wide range of opportunities including: rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) courses, the chance to immerse themselves in local culture through host nation classes, and a dynamic high school athletic program with travel opportunities across Europe. 

DoDEA is dedicated to preparing students for the future with modern, 21st-century schools and programs like dual enrollment allowing students to earn college credit early. Recognizing the value of multilingualism, DoDEA offers the Seal of Biliteracy, and students can explore their passions through over 40 diverse student activities – many of which include travel experiences. Finally, AVID courses provide students with the skills and support needed to excel in higher education and beyond. 

With DoDEA, your children will receive a world-class education while experiencing the unique benefits of living and learning in Europe and Africa. Visit the DoDEA Europe website here: https://www.dodea.edu/europe


Beyond the comprehensive support services, a USAREUR-AF assignment offers an unparalleled opportunity for cultural enrichment. Living in Europe provides immersive experiences that broaden perspectives and foster a deeper understanding of history, art, and diverse traditions.

FMWR Outdoor Recreation Programs at each location offer unique trips and tours designed to unlock these cultural treasures for families and single Soldiers alike – from exploring ancient ruins to experiencing local festivals. These experiences aren’t just vacations; they are living classrooms that enhance children’s education, sparking curiosity and global awareness. For spouses and Soldiers, these opportunities foster personal growth, expand horizons, and create lasting memories, enriching their lives both professionally and personally while building stronger family bonds through shared discovery.


Resources for your or your Family's PCS move can be found here: https://www.europeafrica.army.mil/Newcomers