April 07, 2026
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Soldiers from two Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) units have returned home following year-long overseas deployments, marking the end of extended missions supporting U.S. and allied operations abroad. Families, friends and communities across the state welcomed their Soldiers back as the units completed their respective missions in Europe and the Middle East, reinforcing regional stability and contributing to joint readiness.
Approximately 100 Soldiers from the MIARNG’s 3rd Battalion (General Support), 238th Aviation Regiment (3-238th GSAB), based in Grand Ledge, returned from Kosovo where they supported U.S. European Command (EUCOM). The battalion served as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR), a long-standing mission focused on maintaining a safe and secure environment in the region. This deployment follows the unit’s previous rotation to Kosovo in 2020 in support of KFOR Operation Joint Guardian.
Additionally, approximately 70 Soldiers from the MIARNG’s 1171st Medical Company Area Support (1171st MCAS), based in Ypsilanti, have returned from their deployment under U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. While deployed, the 1171st MCAS executed medical command and control, force health protection, medical operations and direct patient care for U.S. and coalition personnel across the Combined Joint Operations Area. The deployment was the unit’s first since 2019, when it supported operations in Poland.
“These returning units delivered critical capabilities for our nation and our allies abroad,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Their performance strengthened regional security, enhanced joint readiness and demonstrated why the Michigan National Guard remains a trusted partner in complex mission environments. I thank each Soldier, and the families standing behind them, for their unwavering dedication.”
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