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Air Force Band, Honor Guard support Ukrainian air chief counterpart visit

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Amaani Lyle
  • Air Force District of Washington Command Information
ARLINGTON, Va. --  As part of an ongoing commitment to strengthening resilient partnerships and coalition ties, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein hosted his Ukrainian counterpart, Col.-Gen. Sergii Drozdov, during a four-day tour that showcased U.S. Air Force capabilities.

The visit took place with support from Air Force District of Washington, providing expertise in ceremonial honors and operational support.

The Air Force Band and Honor Guard accented the air chief’s visit, which underscored Ukraine’s central role in a range of international security matters, including Russian threats to Europe, and the country’s evolving relationship with the United States.

At the steely spires of the Air Force Memorial, AFDW Commander Maj. Gen. James A. Jacobson greeted Drozdov and his wife, Inna. Goldfein, as the presiding official, inspected the band and guard formations during a Full Honors Arrival Ceremony.

Military history indicates inspection of troops began centuries ago, with the restoration of Charles II to the throne of England. When regiments offered their allegiance, the king carefully scrutinized each soldier in the ranks looking to affirm their loyalty. Goldfein and Drosdov's inspection continued this time-honored tradition.

Following the inspection, Goldfein presented the colonel-general with the Legion of Merit Medal.

According to the citation, Drosdov proactively requested U.S. assistance to assess the capabilities of Ukraine’s overall air defense system, and expanded the understanding of how Ukrainian, U.S., and NATO air forces work together against shared threats.

Among stops at the White House and the Pentagon, the official party later made their way to Arlington National Ceremony for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns, where Jacobson joined Drozdov atop the plaza steps to honor the fallen as the Honor Guard marched and posted the colors.

The tour concluded today.