CAMP JOHNSON, Vermont –
An estimated 2,500 Soldiers, mainly from the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (MTN), are scheduled to perform a federal active-duty deployment supporting U.S. Central Command, U.S. European Command, and U.S. Africa Command in 2021.
Soldiers assigned to the Garrison Support Command are also included in the notification of sourcing.
“This notification of sourcing is the direct result of the hard work Soldiers have put in the last few years,” said Col. Nathan Lord, commander, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (MTN). “Being ready for our nation’s call has been part of our heritage, and this is no different. We have trained hard, and are among the most ready brigade combat teams in the Army,” said Lord.
The 86th IBCT (MTN) is comprised of Soldiers from Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Each state will most likely have Soldiers included in the deployment – some more than others. The 86th IBCT successfully completed a Joint Readiness Training Center rotation in May, making our readiness among the highest in the Army. JRTC provides a rare opportunity for all the units in the 86th IBCT to conduct combined training together.
“The Vermont Army National Guard has consistently answered the call to the federal and state mission year in and year out. We have trained hard, and are ready to take on this mission,” said Brig. Gen. Richard Lebel, land component commander, Vermont Army National Guard. “I am so proud of the work and accomplishments of our Soldiers – this deployment is a testament to their abilities and successes,” said Lebel.