JERICHO, Vermont –
Around 50 Soldiers from the Vermont Army National Guard are deploying to the U.S. European Command for up to one year.
Soldiers from the 172nd Law Enforcement Detachment, Garrison Support Command, Vermont Army National Guard, will conduct law enforcement tasks during their deployment.
“These Soldiers are prepared for their mission,” said Col. Justin Davis, commander, Garrison Support Command. “They were recognized by 1st Army for their outstanding training and preparation. This unit is now a standard bearer.”
Each mission set requires unique training that units must conduct in order to deploy on missions. Each theater of operation also has unique requirements units must train to. The Law Enforcement Detachment has been preparing for their mission for over a year.
“Many of our Soldiers work in law enforcement outside the Guard which adds a whole other level of preparedness,” said Capt. Shawn Slaney, commander, 172nd Law Enforcement Detachment, Garrison Support Command, Vermont Army National Guard. “We are all definitely ready to get started.”
In a joint statement, Senator Patrick Leahy, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Representative Peter Welch said:
“We appreciate the service of our soldiers and their families, who serve along with them. We are also grateful for their employers and friends who will be supporting them back home. As they go forward, we want them to know Vermonters have their back, and our offices stand ready to help them and their families in any way we can.”
Governor Phil Scott also provided a statement:
“I want to thank every member of the 172nd Law Enforcement Detachment, as well as their families, for their commitment and service,” said Governor Scott. “As you carry out your duties at U.S. European Command, know that all Vermonters are proud of you and grateful for your dedication to our state and nation.”
Members of the Vermont National Guard Family Programs stand ready to support the families of Soldiers while they are deployed. Family Programs offers tax preparation services, financial counseling, Veteran's outreach, a 24-hour hotline, and much more. Unit family members are encouraged to reach out to their Family Programs Representative anytime.
The 172nd Law Enforcement Detachment will receive a police escort from their armory in Williston to the Burlington International Airport. They will arrive at the airport at approximately 4:40 a.m.