Health & Wellness
SETAF-AF tests translation tech during Angola crisis response training
LUANDA, Angola — As U.S. Army medical professionals concluded a week-long knowledge exchange with the Angolan Military Health Division, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) medical and public affairs personnel conducted a parallel test of emerging technology designed to bridge language gaps during multinational engagements, Sept. 20-27. While the medical team focused on infection control, trauma surgery and epidemiology, SETAF-AF public affairs personnel conducted a field test of two real-time translation apps, aiming to identify scalable, no-cost tools that bridge language gaps when dedicated interpreters are unavailable. “We’re always looking for ways to improve how we tell the story of our missions,” said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Tucker Chase, a public affairs officer assi...
Ethiopian-American Soldier Advocates for Mental Health in the Ranks
Specialist Luel Bekele Launches Peer Support Program for African-Born Service Members. Specialist Luel Bekele, an Ethiopian-born soldier stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, is leading an initiative to improve mental health awareness among African-born service members in the U.S. Army. Luel, who moved from Addis Ababa to the United States at age 14, understands the cultural stigma around mental health that exists in many African communities. After losing a fellow African-born soldier to suicide, he decided to take action. Partnering with his unit’s behavioral health team, Luel helped design a peer-to-peer support group that addresses the unique cultural challenges African immigrants face while serving in the military. “Our community often sees mental health struggles as a weakness,” Luel e...