INDIANAPOLIS – Approximately 100 Indiana National Guard soldiers with the 38th Infantry Division’s combat aviation brigade are set to deploy to the Balkans in support of Kosovo Force.
Peers, family and friends wished the deploying Hoosier Guardsmen well at a departure ceremony in Shelbyville Friday, Sept. 16.
Indiana Army National Guard Lt. Col. Larry Muennich, of Louisville, Kentucky, will lead the aviation troops.
“I cannot be more humble and proud to lead this organization of professionals in support our nation’s mission abroad,” said Muennich, 2nd Battalion, 238th General Support Aviation commander. “Make no mistake, today we know who the real heroes are; they are the citizen-soldiers and families of the aviation battalion.”
The Hoosier Guardsmen will provide stability operations in the NATO-led mission that contributes to a safe and secure environment that assists with the international humanitarian effort.
“We know the heart of our nation’s defense stands our citizen-soldier. Today our citizen-soldiers in front of you are ready,” said Muennich in his ceremony speech. “They are ready to once again answer the call of our nation in support of stability operations in Kosovo.”
Muennich’s senior-enlisted adviser is Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Mobley, of Greensburg, Indiana, and he agreed with his commander.
“I’m looking forward to it,” said Mobley of the mission ahead. “It’s a great mission to support Kosovo.”
More information on Kosovo Force can be found at http://jfcnaples.nato.int/.
-30-