Capt. Justin Phelps, 41st Infantry Brigade Headquarters and Headquarters Company commander, leads his company formation at the Oregon Army National Guard’s 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team mobilization ceremony at the Salem Armory Auditorium in Salem, Ore., Aug. 16. The event marked the beginning of a significant deployment as the unit prepares to join the NATO-led Kosovo Force for a year-long mission
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SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Army National Guard 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Soldiers were honored Aug. 16 as they prepared to deploy with the NATO-led Kosovo Force for a year-long mission.
During a mobilization ceremony at the Salem Armory Auditorium, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek emphasized the importance of the mission — part of KFOR’s 34th rotation.
“It is these times that show us how important our freedom and safety are, whether you serve overseas or here at home,” Kotek said.
Established to end the Kosovo War, KFOR was authorized to deploy an international peacekeeping force to Kosovo.
KFOR focuses on maintaining security, supporting civil authorities, and ensuring freedom of movement across the region, vital for fostering peace in Kosovo amid 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 to 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.
