The 1st Armored Division has officially taken command of the Joint Task Force-Southern Border (JTF-SB) mission, following a transfer of authority ceremony at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. This transition marks a new chapter in the ongoing efforts to enhance security along the U.S. Southern border.

Leadership Transition

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor, commander of the 1st Armored Division, assumed leadership from Maj. Gen. David Gardner of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Gardner had been leading the JTF-SB since October 2025, after taking over from the 10th Mountain Division. Under his command, the task force focused on improving border security through enhanced detection and monitoring, data sharing, and agile capabilities in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other partners.

Mission Achievements

During Gardner’s tenure, over 20,000 service members were deployed to support the Southern Border missions, conducting more than 33,000 enhanced detection and monitoring missions. These included nearly 4,500 joint patrols with CBP agents and close to 1,100 joint, mirrored patrols with the Mexican Secretariat of National Defense on their respective sides of the border.

The JTF-SB operates under the direction of U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), providing military capabilities to assist in border operations. Gen. Gregory M. Guillot, commander of USNORTHCOM, presided over the ceremony, highlighting the importance of the mission in maintaining national security.

Looking Forward

As the 1st Armored Division takes over, the focus remains on continuing the progress made in securing the border and supporting CBP efforts. The transition aims to maintain the momentum in addressing the challenges faced at the Southern border, ensuring the safety and security of the nation.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.