Oregon Army National Guard field artillery regiment returns from year-long Middle East deployment

HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. (KTVZ) - About 230 members of the Oregon Army National Guard's 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment returned to Oregon Saturday after a year-long deployment to the Middle East. 

The 2-218th FA deployed to Iraq and Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve to advise, assist and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. This mission helped protect regional stability while supporting overall U.S. national security.

While awaiting the return of their soldiers, family and friends gathered in the Camp Withycombe gymnasium, making welcome home signs and connecting with other military families. 

The Forest Grove Police Department and Clackamas Fire Department joined in the homecoming celebration, providing support for their return. 

The Oregon National Guard command team greeted soldiers when they arrived at Camp Withycombe, to congratulate them on their hard work overseas.

“It’s an honor to welcome this group back,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Adrian Gonzales, command sergeant major for the 2-218th FA rear detachment. “They did an outstanding job out there.”

After a year of waiting, the soldiers of the 2-218th FA collected their loved ones and bags and headed home.

“We couldn’t be more proud of what they accomplished,” said Gonzales.