A high-level American Congressional delegation led by Senator Jack Reed paid a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) at the Barclay Training Center.
Senator Reed, a senior Democrat and ranking member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, was joined by Congressman Gabe Amo of Rhode Island.
The delegation was received by Major General Davidson Forleh, Chief of Staff of the AFL, who expressed appreciation for the decades-long military cooperation between the two nations.
In a statement issued by the AFL on Thursday, August 21, 2025, General Forleh underscored the vital role played by U.S. government-supported contractors such as Pacific Architects and Engineers (PAE) and DynCorp International Inc., particularly in capacity building and professional training of the AFL.
He credited U.S. support for the AFL’s evolution into a robust and professional force, including its successful eight-year deployment to the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Mali.
According to the statement, during discussions, Senator Reed posed a key question: “What can we do to help you?”
In response, General Forleh candidly outlined the AFL’s current challenges, particularly the need for equipment and logistics support. He highlighted shortages in tactical vehicles, small arms, mortars, and communication tools, all essential to strengthening operational readiness.
The AFL statement, among other things stated that General Forleh also raised concerns about the Liberia Coast Guard, emphasizing the need for patrol boats and surveillance equipment to secure both territorial and international waters against threats such as terrorism and illegal maritime activity.
With the activation of new units, including the Engineering Battalion, Agriculture Company, Signal Company, and Armored Reconnaissance Battalion-General Forleh emphasized that logistical support and recruitment are his top priorities.
He further praised the U.S. government for playing a key role in rebuilding the post-war AFL into a disciplined and capable force, describing it as a true “Force for Good.”
In his remarks, Senator Reed, himself a West Point graduate and former member of the 82nd Airborne Division commended the AFL’s progress and General Forleh’s leadership.
He pledged to engage with relevant U.S. partners to explore ways to support the AFL through military assistance, educational programs, and increased training opportunities abroad.
Congressman Gabe Amo, also from Rhode Island and a former Special Assistant to President Joe Biden, expressed admiration for the AFL’s professionalism and Liberia’s democratic progress.
He emphasized the importance of U.S.-Africa partnerships rooted in shared values and mutual security interests.
As a gesture of appreciation, General Forleh presented commemorative plaques to Senator Reed and Congressman Amo, symbolizing Liberia’s gratitude for continued U.S. support.
The visit underscores deepening U.S.-Liberia defense ties and a shared commitment to regional peace and stability.
