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The Cyclone Division is back home again in Indiana
Story by Sgt. Tackora Hand
Indiana National Guard welcomed home the final rotation of service members with the 38th Infantry Division, known as the Cyclones, on Thursday, April 9, 2020, after a nine-month deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Spartan Shield.
All returning soldiers were housed an additional two-weeks in Fort Hood, Texas to meet the quarantine restrictions.
“The 38th Infantry Division just completed what I would categorize as one of the best mobilizations in the history of the National Guard. Their efforts not only compelled adversaries in the region to take grave notice of the U.S. presence, but helped advance the National Security Strategy,” said Brig. Gen. Dale Lyles, Indiana National Guard adjutant general. “Hoosiers can rest well knowing these soldiers played a significant role is ensuring the United States is in a better place today because of the great work they accomplished.”
Last May division deployed more than 600 soldiers to assist Task Force Spartan for nine months. Task Force Spartan helped maintain a U.S. military posture among allied nations to strengthen defense relationships, build partner capacity and deter regional aggression.
“Coming into this deployment we were a relatively new team," said Maj. Daniel Taylor, deputy human resources officer for Task Force Spartan. “Seeing everyone come together during the rapidly evolving mission was rewarding and solidified the overall way the division operates.”
38th Infantry Division’s critical mission was accomplished by providing command, control and in-depth staff analysis for approximately 10,000 U.S. service members.
“My task during the deployment was a very unique and interesting one" said Master Sgt. Daniel Bozarth the liaison officer with the Kuwait land forces. “I was a conduit in between Task Force Spartan and the Kuwait land forces, paving the way for partnerships.”
With over 600 Hoosier citizen soldiers supporting Task Force Spartan efforts in the Middle East many were spread out conducting their specific mission. This required the upmost readiness and adaptability within our ranks and leadership.
“I’m really proud to be a part of the 38th Infantry Division and the mission we completed,” said Maj. Taylor. “It was a very tough mission and things changed rapidly, but we had great leaders throughout the whole deployment making it a great experience.”
The Cyclones were recognized during a departure ceremony, in conjunction with the opening ceremonies of the Indianapolis 500 last May. Traditionally, service members return to a welcome home ceremony crowded with family and friends, waving signs and flags, as they walk off their plane. The COVID-19 pandemic forced a change in tradition. The Indiana National Guard took appropriate measures to ensure the health and safety of all families through social distancing, requiring families to remain in their vehicles as they anxiously waited to greet their soldiers in the parking lot. Regardless, these citizen soldiers were happy to be reunited with their loved ones.
“Honestly after being away for so long I don’t mind that I have to stay at home, I get to enjoy the family,” said Sgt. First Class Marquitta Newett, budget analyst for the 38th Infantry Division. “If you can’t go shopping and spend money at the end of the day, family really is everything.”
“The Cyclones endured nine-months in the Middle East and were excited to return home to their families, only to be further delayed due to a two-week quarantine in Fort Hood, Texas. I have the highest gratitude for the sacrifices you have made for your country and family,” said Brig. Gen. Lyles. “Today, the United States is a safer place because of your selfless service, your untiring efforts in the Middle East and your patriotism. We welcome you all home, enjoy time with your loved ones and remain safe.
Before their return, 38th Infantry Division yielded Task Force Spartan to the 42nd Infantry Division who will continue to provide support to Operation Spartan Shield.
| Date Taken: | 04.14.2020 |
| Date Posted: | 04.14.2020 12:35 |
| Story ID: | 367341 |
| Location: | INDIANAPOLIS, IN, US |
| Web Views: | 60 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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