FORT SMITH, Ark. – Arkansas National Guard officials said on Friday that 78 members of its 142nd Field Artillery Brigade have returned to the state.
Officials said the Thursday, Aug. 27 return was at Ebbings Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith. The 78 were returning from the “D.C. Safe and Beautiful” mission in Washington, D.C., officials added.
Arkansas National Guard deploys unit to Washington, D.C.
Photos show members of the brigade’s Team Razorback being welcomed home on the flight line by military leaders, fellow service members and family members. The soldiers were then returning to their communities across northwest Arkansas and the River Valley, officials added.
During the months-long deployment, officials said the detachment worked alongside the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C., conducting visible patrols, maintaining a security presence and supporting civil security operations in designated areas throughout the district.
Officials added that in addition to carrying out high-visibility security missions in support of public safety, soldiers provided lifesaving emergency medical aid to civilians during critical incidents, delivering immediate trauma care and first aid at the scene. Their actions earned several service members individual commendations for exemplary performance…