A U.S. Space Forces Southern patch is worn during an activation ceremony for Space Forces Southern 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 Col. Brandon 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)