North Dakota Army National Guard unit returns home

Photo by: Senator John Hoeven
Photo by: Senator John Hoeven

(Grand Forks, ND) -- A North Dakota Army National Guard unit is back in the state.

The First Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment was welcomed home Sunday in Grand Forks. The battalion had been deployed for about a year helping protect airspace in Washington, DC.

“For 14 months, the members of the 1-188th Battalion gave up time at home and with their loved ones in order to defend the airspace over our nation’s capital. We thank them and their families for this and the many other times they have stepped up to ensure the security of America,” said Senator John Hoeven, who was also joined by Senator Kevin Cramer in welcoming the soldiers home. “Our Guard members represent the best of North Dakota, serving with excellence and distinction right alongside their active duty counterparts. That’s why we will continue working to ensure they receive the recognition and benefits they have earned.”

It was the unit's 12th deployment since 2004.