CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti –
The Soldiers of Task Force Associator continue their mission of providing security in the Horn of Africa as they enter the homestretch of their deployment.
Headquartered by the Pennsylvania Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 111th Infantry Regiment, Task Force Associator assumed authority from Task Force Paxton, an adjacent battalion from Pennsylvania, in September 2024. In addition to Pennsylvania, the task force includes Soldiers from the Illinois, Puerto Rico and Wisconsin National Guards.
The task force's priority is to provide force protection in each of the six postured locations in Eastern Africa, Djibouti, Kenya and Somalia. Its mission is critical to ensuring regional security and stability.
Task Force Associator provides unwavering force protection, enabling Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners throughout East Africa.
The task force regularly conducts high-intensity training scenarios designed to sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations.
“Integrating with our partners ensures we combine and leverage our national strengths,” said Lt. Col. David Fittipoldi, task force commander. “By working across various domains, our unmatched network of alliances and partnerships help us directly support CJTF-HOA commanding general’s lines of effort and the combatant commander’s objectives.”
With a demanding operational tempo of a 24/7/365 alert posture, Task Force Associator stands ready to respond to crises across the HOA, protecting and securing U.S. citizens and interests. The task force sustains this exceptionally high level of readiness by constantly refining their understanding of potential threats and crisis planning procedures, demonstrated through regular Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercises.
“These Soldiers make the mission happen,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Chuck Trofe, task force senior enlisted leader. “They are building a more lethal and effective fighting force, ready to deploy, fight, and win – anytime, anywhere.”
The task force’s presence in Djibouti highlights the enduring commitment of the United States to its African partners and underscores the importance of fostering regional security cooperation. Through their dedication and professionalism, these Citizen-Soldiers stand ready to confront any threat, ensuring a safer and more secure future for the region and the United States.
“Our Soldiers are proud to carry on the legacy of the Pennsylvania National Guard,” Fittipoldi said. “We are prepared to face any challenge and remain committed to upholding peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.”