MUSTANG, Okla. — Friends, family members and Oklahoma National Guard leaders welcomed home nearly 50 Soldiers from the Oklahoma Army National Guard’s 745th Military Police Detachment, 345th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 90th Troop Command, during a homecoming ceremony in Mustang, Oklahoma, Aug. 20, following a nine-month deployment to the Middle East.
The 745th deployed last fall in support of Operation Spartan Shield, a U.S. military operation in U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility focused on building partner capacity and enhancing security throughout the region.
Capt. Bradley McGinnis, commander of the 745th, said the operational environment shifted significantly during the deployment as Operation Epic Fury began and the region transitioned to combat operations. The 745th adapted to the increased security demands, maintaining its mission while responding to the challenges presented by the changing environment.
“Sergeant First Class Wood and I are beyond proud of every member of our unit,” McGinnis said. “Every Soldier upheld the highest standard and executed flawlessly. Their mental and physical fortitude allowed for our mission to be successful. We are proud to have represented the Oklahoma Army National Guard in major combat operations and owe a great deal of thanks to our families for supporting us during this deployment.”
As part of the heightened security measures, Soldiers searched more than 40,000 vehicles at one base and managed the placement of concrete barriers and bunkers to strengthen force protection measures across multiple bases in the region.
The unit’s investigative team also conducted more than 120 investigations spanning four countries, assisting the Army’s Criminal Investigation Division with complex felony cases.
Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Mancino, adjutant general for Oklahoma, echoed McGinnis’ praise for the Soldiers and their ability to adapt to the changing mission.
“The Oklahoma National Guard is incredibly proud of the Soldiers of the 745th Military Police Detachment and the work they accomplished throughout this deployment. They faced a changing and increasingly demanding operational environment and continued to perform their mission with professionalism and dedication. We are grateful for their service and sacrifice, and we are proud to welcome them home alongside the families who supported them throughout this deployment.”