Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Kelsey Miller | Capt. Spencer G. Collazos and his family capture the moment of him returning home...... read more read more
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FORT POLK, La. — When called upon, the Patriot Brigade answered the country’s call. Over the last two weeks, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division held several ceremonies to welcome home more than 1,300 Soldiers.
These Soldiers deployed at a moment’s notice to aid in the withdrawal of U.S. Forces from Afghanistan. Their mission also supported the State Department effort to withdraw American citizens and vulnerable Afghans.
“In the most 10th Mountain fashion, this brigade deployed with no fanfare on short notice,” Col. Matthew J. Hardman, 3rd BCT Commander said. “We accomplished numerous missions in Afghanistan, Qatar and Kuwait.”
The Soldiers’ mission involved treating wounded Americans and Afghan civilians, directly caring for and supporting Afghan refugees and, in some cases, they saw combat.
“Each of these Patriots acted with tremendous empathy and professionalism, easing the plight of thousands of refugees,” Hardman said. “They represented the American people in the best way possible, as a generous and kind people aiding others in their time of need.”
After approximately four months, the brigade reunited these Soldiers with their Family and friends — just in time to highlight Military Family Month, which is celebrated across the Department of Defense in the month of November.
The Village of Anacoco honored the returning Soldiers with a mayoral escort from Alexandria to Fort Polk. Mayor Keith Lewing was joined by Anacoco Fire Department and Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association personnel.
“The reason we escort these men and women home after a deployment is because of the sacrifice they make for us,” Lewing said. “We know freedom isn’t free and these men and women are true heroes.”
Though reuniting is a joyous occasion, during each welcome home ceremony, Hardman reminded the Soldiers and families to support and be patient with one another.
“Reuniting is joyous but often not without friction,” Hardman. “Separation, hardship, and stress have had their effects both forward and here at home. Be patient with yourselves and one another. Support one another, and never forget that you make this team. And together this team can conquer mountains.”
| Date Taken: | 11.19.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 12.08.2021 15:12 |
| Story ID: | 410123 |
| Location: | FORT POLK, LOUISIANA, US |
| Web Views: | 215 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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Combat
Louisiana
Fort Polk
Afghanistan
Infantry
Deployment
