Photo By 2nd Lt. Jarvis Mace | Musicians of the 41st Army Band, Mississippi Army National Guard, perform during the...... read more read more
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Story by 1st Lt. Jarvis Mace, Mississippi National Guard
WASHINGTON – Senior leaders of the Mississippi National Guard and Soldiers of the 41st Army Band participated in the 33rd anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Armed Forces Day celebration at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Washington, D.C., Jan. 31, 2025.
The Mississippi National Guard has been in the state partnership program with Uzbekistan for 13 years, conducting hundreds of engagements including key leader meetings, military-to-military exchanges, and exercises. The Defense Department’s State Partnership Program links a state's National Guard with a partner nation's military, security forces and disaster response organizations in a cooperative, mutually beneficial relationship.
Officials of Uzbekistan and the U.S. recognized the partnership and the close cooperation in defense and security during the January ceremony. Maj. Gen. Bobby M. Ginn, Jr., the adjutant general of Mississippi, was a keynote speaker, honoring the service members of Uzbekistan and their dedication, bravery, and leadership while serving in their nation's military.
The event featured a looping video of Uzbek military demonstrations and training, as well as a vibrant display of the nation’s military traditions. The highlight of the evening was the presence of dignitaries from the Mississippi National Guard including Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph Shane Cook, senior enlisted leader of the Mississippi National Guard, and retired Maj. Gen. Janson D. Boyles, former adjutant general of Mississippi.
Furkat Sidikov, the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the U.S., invited Ginn to be a keynote speaker along with other U.S. Officials. During Ginn’s speech, he emphasized the significance of the military partnership.
“The bond between Mississippi and Uzbekistan through the state partnership program has grown into a relationship of deep trust, cooperation, and mutual respect,” said Ginn. “Since the beginning of our partnership in 2012, we have worked hand in hand to strengthen military readiness, improve disaster response capabilities, and build cultural and professional ties.”
Soldiers of the 41st Army Band entertained guests by playing a selection of songs and were also proud to be invited to perform at the Uzbekistan Armed Forces Day celebration.
“It was an honor and also amazing to have experienced the hospitality and support from the Embassy staff,” said Staff Sgt. Tré Farley, a musician with the 41st. “Beyond having a state partnership, it allows for the service members to learn from their culture, fellowship, and build bonds within the warrior’s mindset.”
Gifts and tokens of appreciation were exchanged during the celebration and both U.S. and Uzbek officials made a toast as a reminder of their unity. The partnership between the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Mississippi National Guard continues to grow, fostering deeper defense collaboration, joint training exercises, and strategic engagements. This Armed Forces Day celebration honored the bravery and dedication of their military personnel and reaffirmed a crucial alliance that will help shape the future of both nations.
| Date Taken: | 01.31.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 03.12.2025 11:35 |
| Story ID: | 490569 |
| Location: | WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 67 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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