Head of the U.S. Military Group in Albania concludes Tour of Duty, awarded the Gold Medal of Military Service by Defence Minister Nufi

Published: Monday, 13 July 2026 14:47

Nufi: “A tribute to those who strengthen the enduring partnership between Albania and the United States”

Defence Minister Ermal Nufi awarded the Gold Medal of Military Service to Lieutenant Colonel Joshua A. Magnusson, Head of the U.S. Military Group in Albania, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to strengthening the partnership between the United States and the Albanian Armed Forces, as well as his exceptional service in advancing and sustaining bilateral military cooperation programmes.

The award ceremony coincided with the conclusion of Lieutenant Colonel Magnusson’s tour of duty in Albania.

In his remarks, Minister Nufi underscored the strategic importance of Albania’s partnership with the United States, describing it as a cornerstone of the country's national security.

“This is something that has been said many times and will continue to be said whenever we have the opportunity: our partnership with the United States is a cornerstone of Albania’s national security and strategic orientation. Today, we present the Gold Medal of Military Service in recognition of the outstanding service rendered to both the United States and Albania. It is important to honour those who have helped build and strengthen this partnership and whose dedication has enabled our Armed Forces and our two nations to stand stronger together." , Minister Nufi said.

During the ceremony, Minister Nufi also presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Sergeant Emmanuel Ebhoomhan, Operations Coordinator at the Office of the U.S. Defence Attaché in Albania, in recognition of his dedicated service and contribution to strengthening military cooperation between the two countries.