Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman, left, and U.S. Space Forces Southern Commander Col. Brandon Alford, right, applaud after officially activating SPACEFOR-SOUTH at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Jan. 21, 2026. SPACEFOR–SOUTH became operational effective Dec. 1, 2025, the ceremony formally recognized the activation with the assumption of command by Alford, and the digital unveiling of the Space Forces Southern emblem, symbolizing the command’s mission and regional focus. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Rachel Maxwell)