The change of command also signified the retirement of Lieutenant General Fletcher after a prestigious 35 year career with the U.S. Army.
The ceremony was officiated by Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), General Christopher G. Cavoli, and attended by several senior defense leaders from Allied and partner special operations commands, along with other distinguished visitors.
“Today’s ceremony is a unique occasion. It's not only a handover between the commanders of Allied SOFCOM, but it also marks the integration of the NATO SOF Advisor, the commander of SOFCOM, and the commander of US European Special Operations Command into one position,” said General Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe and Commander, U.S. European Command. “This triple hatting of the commander is going to allow us to streamline organizational structures and better posture the Alliance for collective defence. And now our SOF component will match the other significant components of Allied Command Operations.”
Today’s ceremony is a unique occasion. It's not only a handover between the commanders of Allied SOFCOM, but it also marks the integration of the NATO SOF Advisor, the commander of SOFCOM, and the commander of US European Special Operations Command into one position
Under Lieutenant General Fletcher’s command, SOFCOM underwent significant transformation, evolving into a strategic warfighting headquarters. His efforts to modernise Allied and partner special operations forces has strengthened the Alliance, preparing it to confront evolving global threats. Lieutenant General Fletcher reinforced the integral role of special operations forces in NATO's strategic framework, ensuring the Alliance benefits from the unique contributions special operations forces offer across the continuum of competition that defines today’s security environment.
In his farewell remarks, Lieutenant General Fletcher expressed deep gratitude to the special operations forces enterprise, praising the unwavering commitment to collective defence, which he emphasised is more essential now than ever.
“To the men and women of SOFCOM and the broader SOF enterprise, I have witnessed firsthand your incredible dedication. You are the driving force behind our success, said Lieutenant General Fletcher, outgoing commander for Allied Special Operations Forces Command. “And as we move forward together, let us remain resolute in our purpose, united in all of our efforts and ready to meet the challenge wherever that may be.”
To the men and women of SOFCOM and the broader SOF enterprise, I have witnessed firsthand as your incredible dedication
Lieutenant General Angle receives the colours from Gen. Cavoli during the Allied Special Operations Forces Change of Command ceremony, symbolizing the transfer of leadership and responsibility. He then passes the colours to 1SG McGlothlin, marking the beginning of a new chapter for SOFCOM.
Lieutenant General Angle receives the colours from General Cavoli during the Allied Special Operations Forces Change of Command ceremony, symbolizing the transfer of leadership and responsibility. He then passes the colours to 1SG McGlothlin, marking the beginning of a new chapter for SOFCOM.
Lieutenant General Angle brings extensive experience from prior assignments at all levels of U.S. Special Operations Commands, and from the U.S. Army Staff. He steps into a triple hatted command position in which he will serve as the SOFCOM Commander, SACEUR’s Special Forces Advisor, and Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command Europe (USSOCEUR). This combined role aims to ensure special operations forces unity of command and effort across the Alliance, as is crucial in today’s rapidly shifting global security environment.
In his address, Lieutenant General Angle acknowledged the challenges ahead and highlighted the importance of NATO and U.S. Special Operations Forces working in concert to address the complexities of a multi-domain operational environment.
From left to right, Lieutenant General Angle, General Cavoli, and Lieutenant General Fletcher stand in solemn respect as the Belgian national anthem plays during the Allied Special Operations Forces Command Change of Command Ceremony
“NATO Allies face serious challenges that demand our collective focus and action from state-based threats to hybrid warfare. We operate in an increasing complex security environment,” said Lieutenant General Angle, incoming commander for Allied Special Operations Forces Command. “Special operations forces are vital in advancing Alliance priorities, and we must continue to sharpen our focus and how we contribute to NATO's core mission, ensuring collective defence against our two main threats, Russia and terror groups.”
NATO Allies face serious challenges that demand our collective focus and action from state-based threats to hybrid warfare. We operate in an increasing complex security environment
NATO Allies face serious challenges that demand our collective focus and action from state-based threats to hybrid warfare. We operate in an increasing complex security environment