Musicians of the 41st Army Band, Mississippi Army National Guard, perform during the 33rd anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Armed Forces Day Celebration at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Washington Jan. 31, 2025. U.S. and Uzbekistan officials recognized their state partnership and cooperation in defense and security. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Jarvis Mace)
Musicians of the 41st Army Band, Mississippi Army National Guard, perform during the 33rd anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Armed Forces Day Celebration at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Washington Jan. 31, 2025. U.S. and Uzbekistan officials recognized their state partnership and cooperation in defense and security. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Jarvis Mace) (Photo Credit: 2nd Lt. Jarvis Mace) VIEW ORIGINAL

WASHINGTON – Senior Mississippi National Guard leaders and Soldiers of the 41st Army Band participated in the 33rd anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Armed Forces Day celebration at the Embassy of Uzbekistan.

The Mississippi National Guard has been in the State Partnership Program with Uzbekistan for 13 years, conducting hundreds of key leader meetings, military-to-military exchanges and exercises. The Defense Department National Guard Bureau program links a state National Guard with a partner nation’s military, security forces and disaster response organizations in a cooperative, mutually beneficial relationship.

Officials of Uzbekistan and the U.S. recognized the partnership and the close cooperation in defense and security during the Jan. 31 ceremony. Maj. Gen. Bobby M. Ginn Jr., the adjutant general of Mississippi, was a keynote speaker, honoring the service members of Uzbekistan and their dedication, bravery and leadership.

The event featured a looping video of Uzbek military demonstrations and training and a vibrant display of the nation’s military traditions. Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph Shane Cook, senior enlisted leader of the Mississippi National Guard, and retired Maj. Gen. Janson D. Boyles, former adjutant general, also attended.

Furkat Sidikov, the ambassador of Uzbekistan to the United States, invited Ginn to be a keynote speaker along with other U.S. officials. Ginn emphasized the significance of the military partnership.

“The bond between Mississippi and Uzbekistan through the State Partnership Program has grown into a relationship of deep trust, cooperation and mutual respect,” said Ginn. “Since the beginning of our partnership in 2012, we have worked hand in hand to strengthen military readiness, improve disaster response capabilities and build cultural and professional ties.”

Soldiers of the 41st Army Band entertained guests by playing a selection of songs.

“It was an honor and also amazing to have experienced the hospitality and support from the embassy staff,” said Staff Sgt. Tré Farley, a musician with the 41st. “Beyond having a state partnership, it allows for the service members to learn from their culture, fellowship and build bonds within the warrior’s mindset.”

The partnership between the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Mississippi National Guard continues to grow, fostering defense collaboration, joint training and strategic engagements.