From NATO: The change of command marks the first time that a French General assumes command of a NATO headquarters since France announced its return to NATO’s military command structure earlier this year . . .

Joint Command Lisbon is, along with its sister headquarters in Naples and Brunssum, one of three NATO’s operational level headquarters. The Oeiras-based headquarters is responsible for commanding NATO’s counter-piracy operation “Allied Protector” and the current rotation of the NATO Response Force (NRF). Over 300 Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines and Civilians from 21 NATO and Partnership for Peace (PfP) nations serve in Joint Command Lisbon. (photo: NATO)