The mobilization ceremony for Soldiers
from the Oregon Army National Guard’s 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team
(IBCT) was held today, Aug. 16, at the Salem Armory Auditorium. This
event marked the start of their upcoming deployment with the NATO-led
Kosovo Force (KFOR) for a year-long mission.
During the ceremony,
members of the 41st IBCT were honored as they prepared for their
deployment, which is part of KFOR’s 34th rotation. Established to end
the Kosovo War, KFOR was authorized to deploy an international
peacekeeping force to Kosovo, a mission crucial for maintaining regional
security and stability.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of their mission.
“It
is these times that show us how important our freedom and safety are,
whether you serve overseas or here at home,” Kotek said.
KFOR’s
mission continues to focus on maintaining security, supporting civil
authorities, and ensuring freedom of movement across the region, which
is vital for fostering peace in Kosovo amidst ongoing political
negotiations between Kosovo and Serbia.
Col. Peter Helzer,
Commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, spoke about the
deployment’s significance before the ceremony.
“The 41st IBCT
brings a robust set of capabilities to support the people of Kosovo.
From security to medical and logistical support, Oregonians will
contribute to the stability and security of the region as part of the
NATO effort,” he said.
To prepare for their deployment, the 41st
IBCT will first undergo pre-mobilization training at Fort Cavazos,
Texas, followed by additional training in Germany.
Brig. Gen.
Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon, expressed gratitude for
the sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families.
“I want to thank you for the sacrifices you and your families have made to serve the state and nation,” he said.
Gen.
Daniel Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau and member of the
Joint Chiefs of Staff, also attended the ceremony. As the former 41st
IBCT Commander during the Brigade’s 2009-10 deployment to Iraq and
former Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, Hokanson praised
the soldiers for their service and highlighted that they are among the
less than 1% of Americans who serve in this capacity.
To view the
ceremony visit the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team’s Facebook page
at: https://www.facebook.com/event....
