WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Howard’s job as the head of JFC Naples is to be prepared to conduct NATO military operations "in order to deter aggression, defend NATO territory and forces, safeguard freedom of the seas and economic lifelines, and to preserve the security of NATO nations," the release noted.
"US Navy Admiral Michelle Howard took command of Allied Joint Force Command Naples and US Naval Forces Europe-Africa during a ceremony held at the JFC Naples headquarters, June 7, 2016," the release stated.
As Naval Forces Commander for Europe-Africa, Howard will lead maritime operations on both of those continents along with allied, coalition, joint, interagency and other partners, according to the release.
