About this Unit
U.S. Army South (USARSO) traces its origins to the Panama Canal Department, established in 1917 to protect the strategic waterway. During World War II, the command’s role expanded to defending the region and supporting anti-submarine operations. In 1986, it was redesignated as U.S. Army South and relocated to Fort Sam Houston, Texas, in 2008. Today, USARSO serves as the Army Service Component Command of U.S. Southern Command, responsible for military operations and security cooperation throughout Central and South America and the Caribbean.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in Panama: US Army South (USARSO) traces its roots to the Panama Canal Department, which was established in 1917 to defend the strategic Panama Canal during World War I.
•
Reorganization and Name: The command was officially designated as US Army South in 1986, evolving from the United States Army Forces Southern Command.
•
Operation Just Cause: USARSO played a key role in Operation Just Cause (1989), which resulted in the removal of Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega and the safeguarding of American lives and interests in Panama.
•
Focus on Latin America and the Caribbean: USARSO serves as the Army component of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), overseeing missions and partnerships in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
•
Counterdrug Operations: USARSO has been instrumental in supporting counterdrug operations, working with partner nations to disrupt illegal narcotics trafficking in the region.
•
Humanitarian Assistance: The unit is frequently involved in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, providing aid after hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters in the Americas.
•
Relocation to Texas: Following the 1999 Panama Canal handover, USARSO relocated its headquarters from Fort Clayton, Panama, to Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
•
Joint Task Force Leadership: USARSO often leads or supports Joint Task Forces in the region, such as JTF-Bravo in Honduras, which supports regional security and disaster response.
•
Partnership for Peace: The unit conducts regular exercises and training with partner nation militaries, enhancing interoperability and fostering regional stability.
•
Historic Buildings: The former USARSO headquarters at Fort Clayton was located in a building that once served as the residence for the Governor of the Panama Canal Zone, reflecting its deep historical ties to the region.
