US Army South (USARSO)

• 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.