LANSING, Mich. – Saturday, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II addressed 70 soldiers assigned to the Michigan Army National Guard’s (MIARNG) 1171st Medical Company Area Support, along with their families and invited guests, at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor as they prepare to depart for their deployment to the Middle East in support of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).
“It was an honor to join the 1171st Medical Company as they depart for their latest mission,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “The Michigan National Guard is known nationwide for their professionalism and dedication to protecting and serving their fellow Americans. As they once again answer the call of duty, Governor Whitmer and I will continue to have their backs. Together, let’s Stand Tall for our service members and military families and await their safe return.”
“As our Soldiers once again answer the call of duty, it is our solemn responsibility to stand behind them,” said U.S. Army Major General Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Together, we will continue to support our service members and their families, as we await their safe return. The strength, sacrifice and resilience of military families during long separations is vital to the success of our troops overseas. Just as they support their loved ones in uniform, we will be there to support them.”
“Deployment is such an emotional time for those being deployed and their family members,” said state Senator Veronica Klinefelt (D-Eastpointe), Chair of the Senate Veterans and Emergency Services Committee. “My heart is with all of you, and I look forward to your safe return.”
“I am deeply proud of the courageous men and women of the Michigan Army National Guard who once again stand ready to answer the call to serve,” said state Representative Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit), Minority Vice Chair of the House Families and Veterans Committee. “Their unwavering commitment, discipline, and sacrifice embody the highest ideals of service and reflect the very best of our state. As they deploy to carry out their mission, we send them off with immense gratitude, heartfelt prayers for their safety, and a promise that the people of Michigan will stand behind them every step of the way until they return home.”
The Soldiers are deploying to provide medical support for Operation Inherent Resolve and are anticipated to be deployed for up to a year. The unit’s last deployment was in 2019 to Poland in support of U.S. European Command (EUCOM).
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