To Strengthening Ties, US AFRICOM Logistics Chief Visits AFL High Command

In a vibrant and symbolic ceremony on April 28, 2025, Brigadier General George Dietrich, Chief of Logistics at the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), paid an official visit to the High Command of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) at the historic Barclay Training Center.

Upon his arrival, Brig Gen Dietrich received full military honors, including a red carpet welcome, the stirring sounds of the AFL Marching Band, and a precision salute from the AFL Honor Guard.

Following the colorful reception, Major General Davidson Fayiah Forleh, Chief of Staff of the AFL, formally introduced his senior leadership team to the visiting US commander during a brief but cordial meeting.

Welcoming Brig Gen Dietrich, Major General Forleh highlighted the enduring historic ties between Liberia and the United States, drawing attention to shared military doctrines and national symbols rooted in a common heritage.

He referenced Liberia’s first President, Joseph Jenkins Roberts, the naming of Monrovia after US President James Monroe, and the similar color schemes of the Liberian and American flags as proud markers of this relationship.

Major General Forleh also underscored that the AFL’s resurgence and evolution into a respected "Force for Good" in the West African sub-region was made possible largely through US taxpayer support, particularly following Liberia’s civil conflicts.

The AFL Chief expressed deep gratitude to AFRICOM for selecting Liberia as the host nation for the upcoming third US AFRICOM West Africa Logistics Conference, scheduled for August 2025.

He emphasized that preparations for the shipment of $20 million worth of military equipment donated by the African Union were well underway, signaling Liberia’s growing military logistics capability.

In his remarks, Brig Gen Dietrich conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the warm and elaborate welcome afforded to him and his team by the AFL High Command.

He praised Liberia’s Armed Forces for their outstanding contributions during previous logistics conferences, affirming that hosting the third edition was an “obvious and inevitable” choice.

Brig Gen Dietrich described the upcoming conference as an ideal platform for Liberia to highlight its strategic military role in the region and strengthen collaboration across West Africa in addressing shared logistical challenges.

He further assured the AFL leadership that AFRICOM is committed to assisting Liberia not only with the arrival of the donated equipment but also through ongoing support, including personnel training and the provision of necessary spare parts.

The visit comes at a pivotal moment, as the AFL continues to rise in prominence within the sub-region, owing to its professionalism, resilience, and strong international partnerships.

The West Africa Logistics Conference, a hallmark event organized by AFRICOM, fosters dialogue and cooperation among regional military forces, providing an avenue to collectively solve logistics challenges and build stronger defense systems.

Both AFL and AFRICOM officials expressed optimism that the August 2025 conference would enhance Liberia’s standing in regional security and logistics circles, while further cementing the already strong bonds between the United States and Liberia.

Brig Gen Dietrich’s visit concluded with renewed commitments on both sides to deepen military collaboration, ensure sustainable logistics capacity, and uphold the shared vision of peace and security across the West African sub-region.