Another group of Nebraska National Guard service members has returned home from a deployment to Washington, D.C., supporting national Freedom250 celebrations.
Gov. Jim Pillen and senior Nebraska National Guard leaders welcomed 23 soldiers home Wednesday morning during a private reception near the Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters in Lincoln. About 200 Nebraska National Guard soldiers from cavalry, infantry and military police units deployed to Washington in March as part of Operation Make DC Safe and Beautiful.
Most of the Nebraska troops returned home in mid-July. Four other Nebraska National Guard soldiers have volunteered to continue serving in Washington, D.C., until roughly the end of October. “We are extremely proud of Nebraska’s representation in Washington, D.C. leading up to the Fourth of July celebrations and then through some of the other events that have followed,” Pillen said. “The returning soldiers are undoubtedly glad to be back home with their family members and friends.”
As part of Task Force Wolf, Nebraska Guard members assisted with street patrols, security at Metro stations and local parks, and support for local law enforcement agencies during events that drew large crowds. Pillen said the Nebraska Guard took on an important role in helping keep visitors to the Washington area safe and praised the troops for being prepared to serve. “As always, Nebraska was well-prepared and willing to do its part,” Pillen said.