SETAF-AF integrates human performance science to advance mission

VICENZA, Italy - U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) is setting a new standard of force readiness and well-being as the first headquarters-level command to pilot the U.S. Army's Optimizing the Human Weapon System program.

Originally launched at the brigade level by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, the OHWS program leverages wearable health technology and real-time feedback to promote healthier habits, enhance Soldier performance and inform leadership decisions.

The year-long pilot began in January 2025, with 94 wearable devices distributed to Soldiers and civilians across SETAF-AF directorates. Participation in the program was voluntary, reflecting a shared commitment to holistic health and fitness across the command.

"The data from these devices has been instrumental in pushing me to go harder, but one thing I really appreciate is the feedback it gives me about the importance of adequate rest and sleep," said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Sean M. Douglass, SETAF-AF civil knowledge integration noncommissioned officer and OHWS participant. "The device encourages me to go further but warns me that without proper rest, I am at greater risk of injury or illness."

SETAF-AF's version of OHWS brings together a coalition of wellness-focused organizations - including the Ready and Resilient Performance Center (R2PC), the Armed Forces Wellness Center (AFWC), Sports, Fitness and Aquatics staff, and the SETAF-AF Chaplain Directorate - forming a unified human performance team.

"Initial findings from the pilot have already informed actionable improvements," said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Erin N. Guy, SETAF-AF aviation operations noncommissioned officer and R2PC program manager for Italy. "Data revealed that once-a-week unit formations were disrupting participants' circadian rhythms, while simple practices - such as increased exposure to natural light - showed measurable benefits."

Bringing wellness providers closer to participants' workspaces has also proven effective. An AFWC representative regularly visited Caserma Del Din, offering on-the-spot coaching based on wearable device data.

"Participants reported improvements in body composition, sleep quality and even reductions in alcohol use, all directly influenced by wearing the device," Guy said.

Looking ahead, SETAF-AF will launch expanded training sessions led by R2PC, focusing on mental skills, sleep education, nutrition and physical activity - further aligning with the Army's Field Manual 7-22 on holistic health and fitness.

"It has been a fantastic experience being a part of the OHWS program and using these devices, especially when I know other people are in the program," Douglas said. "I want to talk to them about their progress. It has also made it so much easier to track physical training activities with the watch and ring than carrying my phone."

Additionally, R2PC is preparing to pilot a complementary wellness program for Department of the Army civilians, with a focus on leadership development and emotional intelligence.

SETAF-AF's OHWS pilot concludes in January 2026, but leaders expect the program's insights and outcomes to shape future wellness initiatives throughout the Army.

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About SETAF-AF

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

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