OCTOBER 2, 2025 – U.S. service members assigned to Joint Task Force Southern Guard transferred authority of key leadership positions at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, Oct. 1, 2025.
Planned several weeks in advance, the week-long relief in place/transfer of authority process allowed outgoing and incoming personnel to work side by side. The phased turnover ensured seamless operations and prevented gaps in critical command and support functions.
“Our intent was to setup the new command element for success through a detailed orientation of the area of operations and conduct rehearsals that simulated support to the Department of Homeland Security,” said U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Scott Weibling, outgoing JTF-SG director of operations.
Since its inception, JTF-SG leadership has focused on right sizing the force to support operations, reduce redundancies and streamline processes.
“We continually looked for opportunities to reduce the Department of War population supporting DHS aboard NSGB through replacing personnel with contracted solutions and streamlining processes that allowed for redeployment of personnel,” said Weibling.
At this time, JTF-SG includes more than 500 service members, civilians and interagency partners supporting the DHS-led illegal alien holding operations mission. The Army and Marine Corps account for the majority of uniformed personnel, with the remainder consisting of Air Force, Navy, and civilian members.
“The transition of authority is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all personnel involved,” said U.S. Marine Corps Col. David Ickles, outgoing JTF-SG commander. “Over the past four months, we’ve focused on building a strong foundation for success, and I’m confident in the capabilities of the incoming leadership to carry the mission forward.”
The relief in place/transfer of authority is a routine part of joint operations, allowing JTF-SG to remain fully mission capable while sustaining essential support across headquarters and deployed supporting units.
Story by Staff Sgt. Aubree Owens
Joint Task Force Southern Guard