JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas –
In a dynamic exchange of environmental expertise, the U.S. Army Environmental Command team of Col. Vance Brunner and Command Sgt. Maj. Francisco Cardenas hosted representatives from the Brazilian Army Department of Real Estate and the Environment during the week of Oct. 28, 2024, at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
The Brazilian Army delegation, led by Col. Andre Luiz Cardoso Marinho, Head of the Environmental Office, included Lt. Thaisa Sant’Anna Lacerda, Biologist/Technical Officer; 1st Lt. Joana Albuquerque Di Lucia Cerqueira Leite, Technical Translator; along with Brazilian Army Col. Sergio Matos, liaison officer, and U.S. Army Maj. Alfredo Carrillo, engineer planner, both with U.S. Army South.
This visit continues the exchange of insights, fosters collaboration, and gains a deeper understanding of environmental management within military operations.
USAEC’s comprehensive presentations highlighted its mission and showcased the organization’s diverse areas of expertise, such as natural and cultural resource management, National Environmental Policy Act compliance, pest management, and the Conservation Reimbursable and Fee Collection Program.
The exchange underscored that, despite differences in operational contexts, the shared challenges faced by environmental professionals transcend geographic and organizational boundaries. Drawing on years of professional expertise within USAEC, the discussion highlighted common themes such as resource management, sustainability, and regulatory compliance, showcasing the universal nature of these issues and the value of collaborative problem-solving.
“It’s clear that we share many similarities in our approaches, even though we may implement them in slightly different ways,” said Brunner. “Despite these differences, we are united by a common goal: striving together toward a more sustainable future.”
Beyond the technical discussions, the camaraderie built through shared challenges, practices, and humor added a personal connection to the professional exchange. Stories of life experiences and lessons learned created a sense of community, reminding everyone that the mission is not only about overcoming obstacles but also about fostering enduring relationships along the way.
Brazil’s military integrates environmental stewardship as a fundamental aspect of national security, reflecting the nation’s deep connection to its diverse natural landscapes. Spanning six distinct biomes - from the Amazon rainforest to the Pampas - Brazilian soldiers receive rigorous training designed to equip them with the skills needed to navigate, preserve, and thrive within these unique ecosystems. This training underscores their dual role as both defenders of the nation and guardians of its natural heritage.
“To protect the environment, you have to know the environment,” said Marinho, summarizing Brazil’s philosophy.
By fostering an intimate understanding of the country’s ecological wealth, the Brazilian military ensures that its operations not only respect but also contribute to the preservation of all the country’s vital natural resources.
The delegation emphasized Brazil’s legal framework that mandates strict protections for trees, wildlife, and biomes. For example, it is illegal to cut down a tree [without authorization] or capture or kill wildlife [unless life threatening]. This emphasis on compliance is deeply embedded in the culture of the Brazilian army.
A traditional gift exchange concluded the two-day collaboration at USAEC and continued the growing partnership between the two nations and underscored their mutual commitment to environmental sustainability.
Through a translator, Marinho expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Brazilian delegation for the opportunity to travel to USAEC and learn from the U.S. Army’s civilian environmental professionals.