U.S. Embassy and Austrian Armed Forces Celebrate Anniversary of State Partnership Program

PeopleOther ♦ Published: June 18, 2023; 18:52 ♦ (Vindobona)

The one-year anniversary of the "State Partnership Program" between the "Vermont Air National Guard" and the Austrian Armed Forces under the leadership of Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner was celebrated in Zeltweg. High-ranking guests such as the Ambassador of the United States in Austria, Victoria Reggie Kennedy, as well as Brigadier General Henry Harder, Commander of the "Vermont Air National Guard", were present at a festive ceremony. Within the framework of this partnership, the 158th Fighter Wing of the Vermont Air National Guard and the Austrian Air Force are conducting joint flight exercises for the first time.

First anniversary of the "State Partnership Program" in Zeltweg. / Picture: © Bundesheer/CARINA KARLOVITS

The "State Partnership Program" offers both partners the opportunity to exchange their skills, experience, and know-how. The Vermont Air National Guard, which has previously participated in the Air Defender 23 exercise, is using this opportunity to train and share experiences with the Austrian Air Force for the first time.

In her address, Defense Minister Tanner emphasized: "The…