U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Blake Nicholson, center, a security forces specialist assigned to the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Airlift Wing, discusses the use of civil disturbance protective equipment with Ecuadorian military leaders at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., Jan. 31, 2024. The Ecuadorians are visiting this week to exchange information with the Kentucky National Guard as part of the State Partnership Program, a National Guard Bureau effort that pairs Guard units with foreign allies to foster enhanced understanding across all aspects of civil and military affairs. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Dale Greer)