JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS – DES MOINES, Iowa – The Iowa National Guard has announced that the final major group of Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division are returning home to the United States today following their deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
Nearly 200 Soldiers are now arriving back in America after serving alongside coalition and regional partners in the Middle East, supporting efforts to reduce the capabilities of ISIS in Iraq and Syria while promoting regional stability.
Their return marks another significant milestone in the phased redeployment of Iowa National Guard forces. Throughout the deployment cycle, Soldiers returned in waves based on mission requirements, personnel needs, and transportation availability to ensure operational responsibilities were completed safely and effectively.
The Iowa National Guard is currently coordinating welcome home ceremony details to honor these returning Soldiers. Additional information will be released once finalized.
In a news release, Guard officials say, “As we celebrate the return of these Soldiers, we also continue to keep the nearly 200 Iowa National Guard Airmen currently deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Epic Fury in our thoughts and prayers. Their mission continues, and so does our unwavering support. The Iowa National Guard remains deeply appreciative of all service members and families who have supported these missions and sacrifices over the course of the deployment.”
