Joint Forces Alabama

• Origins: Joint Forces Alabama (JFA) was established to foster cooperation and integration between the Alabama Army National Guard, Air National Guard, and state defense forces during emergency response operations. • Dual Mission: JFA operates under both state and federal authority, allowing rapid response to natural disasters (like hurricanes and tornadoes) and support for federal missions abroad. • Disaster Response: JFA played a pivotal role in the aftermath of the devastating 2011 Alabama tornado outbreak, coordinating rescue, relief, and recovery operations statewide. • Innovative Training: The unit is recognized for pioneering joint training exercises that simulate real-world scenarios, enhancing interoperability between different military branches and civilian agencies. • Counterdrug Operations: JFA has supported state and federal law enforcement in counterdrug missions, including aerial surveillance and intelligence sharing. • Community Engagement: Members of JFA regularly participate in community outreach programs, including youth mentorship and disaster preparedness education. • Historic Deployments: Elements of JFA have been mobilized for overseas deployments, supporting missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations. • Cyber Defense: The unit has developed a cyber defense team dedicated to protecting state infrastructure from cyber threats, a model now emulated by other states. • Medical Support: During the COVID-19 pandemic, JFA provided vital medical logistics, set up testing sites, and distributed personal protective equipment across Alabama. • Women in Leadership: JFA has seen significant advancements in diversity, with women holding key leadership roles in logistics, intelligence, and command positions.