ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- This change of command ceremony marks a historic moment for Task Force Talon as they conduct their final change of command before the activation of 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment in October 2026. Lt. Col. Jonathan Stafford was honored for his steadfast leadership, dedication, and commitment to the mission. Under his command, Task Force Talon has continued to uphold the highest standards of excellence and readiness. The unit welcomed Lt. Col. Christopher Garnett as he assumed command, carrying forward the legacy of strength, discipline, and teamwork. (U.S. Army video by Capt. Frank Spatt)
MCGREGOR RANGE COMPLEX, New Mexico -- Air Defense Artillery Fire Control Officers from 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, out of Sagami General Depot, partnered with a composite battery from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force South West and Central Air Defense Missile Groups and U.S. Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command during Operation Shining Star 26, a bilateral live-fire exercise conducted Nov. 1, 2025. The event highlighted combined air defense integration while validating Patriot surface-to-air missile systems. As a recurring exercise, Shining Star reinforces U.S.-Japan defense cooperation through simultaneous Patriot engagements, sharpening tactics, communication procedures and interoperability, while emphasizing the enduring alliance and shared commitment to regional security. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Frank Spatt)
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam– Task Force Talon will host a change of command ceremony on 16 December 2025 at 0900 in the Corrosion Control Hangar, BLDG 40010 on Andersen Air Force Base. This event will mark the transition of leadership from Lt. Col. Jonathan C. Stafford to Lt. Col. Christopher R. Garnett. Since Task Force Talon’s activation in 2013, it continues to play a critical role in the defense of the Indo-Pacific region and Guam.
The ceremony will commemorate the successful tenure of Lt. Col. Stafford, who has led Task Force Talon with distinction, ensuring mission readiness and operational excellence. Lt. Col. Garnett will assume command as the final commander of Task Force Talon, as the unit prepares for the activation of...
12.04.2025 | ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, GU |
Story by Capt. Frank Spatt
The 14th Missile Defense Battery, stationed in Kyogamisaki Communications Site, recently participated in a relationship-building exercise with their neighbors in the 35th Air Control & Warning Squadron. Rather than focusing on drills and technical training, the event centered around a casual English conversation session. This event aimed to foster deeper personal connections and understanding between the two allied forces, strengthening the...
