76th Brigade Soldiers return from Iraq

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA, UNITED STATES

11.07.2008

Story by Staff Sgt. Jeff Lowry 

Indiana National Guard Headquarters

By Staff Sgt. Jeff Lowry
Indiana National Guard

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - "Remember, remember the fifth of November."

In English history the quote is from a rhyme to remember the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot that tried to destroy the English Parliament building. In Indiana military history it could be used to remember the return of 53 troops from the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and its deployment to Iraq. It represented the largest deployment for an Indiana National Guard unit since World War II.

"I think that not just myself, but the Soldiers and Marines are making a real impact and doing a good thing," said Pvt. Freddie Basnight of Fort Wayne, Ind. and a radio and telephone operator with Company E, 113th Support Battalion while deployed. "I think we're on the right path."

During the brigade's deployment, it supported security missions, aerial reconnaissance missions, presence patrols, convoy escorts, and high profile reconstruction efforts to the Iraqi economy.
Other 76th Soldiers agreed.

"It was very fast, and it was very rewarding," said Lt. Col. Ross Waltemath of Kokomo, Ind. and the Brigade's personnel officer. "We still have a lot of work to do and get the rest of the brigade home."

This is the first of more than 3,200 Indiana National Guardsman scheduled to return over the next four weeks.

Following an hour-long reception ceremony at Indiana Guard headquarters, the Citizen-Soldiers travelled to Camp Atterbury to complete reintegration into civilian life. They will have their paperwork checked, undergo a health assessment and listen to several briefs.

As the Brigade returns, it's important time for the Indiana National Guard, according to officials.

"This is a historic time as these Soldiers return from the largest deployment of Indiana Guard troops since World War II. I am extremely proud of all of them," said Indiana's Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. R. Martin Umbarger.

It's a time to remember.

• Date Taken: 11.07.2008
• Date Posted: 11.07.2008 22:26
• Story ID: 26076
• Location: INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA, US