Oregon Guard unit back from year-long SW border patrol duty to detect, deter illegal crossings, smuggling

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – A Formal Demobilization Ceremony was held Friday at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Salem for 27 members of the Oregon National Guard who were activated along the U.S. Southwest border for the past year, flying helicopters to detect and deter illegal border crossings, smuggling and human trafficking.

Members of Detachment 1, Company Alpha, 1st Battalion – 112th Aviation were recognized for their yearlong support to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency.

While addressing those in attendance, Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander, said the unit conducted a total of 385 missions - flying both day and night operations in their UH-72 Lakota helicopters.

“They flew a total of 1,825 hours across the area, with a majority of those missions flown at night,” he said, noting that the Soldiers volunteered their extra time to community service projects.

“They contributed over 1,000 hours of direct community service as they volunteered to assist local food banks, distributed toys during the 'Toys for Tots' drive and other activities to show support for the community.”

The Oregon Army National Guard members were teamed up with Soldiers from Idaho, North Dakota, Montana and Wisconsin during their mobilization.