Oklahoma National Guard Deployment Largest Since Korean War

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is being deployed to Afghanistan, according to the Oklahoma National Guard's Office of Public Affairs. There are 3,500 soldiers in the team which makes this the largest Oklahoma National Guard deployment since the Korean War.

The 45th is scheduled to conduct offensive, defensive and stability/civil support operations.

"The 45th has an experienced team of leaders," said Maj. Gen. Myles L. Deering, adjutant general for Oklahoma.

"They are very well trained, very proficient and very capable of handling all aspects of the mission they will perform in Afghanistan."

Before deploying next year, all 3,500 Soldiers assigned to the 45th will engage in various training events. Part of the preparation includes briefings provided through the Yellow Ribbon program. The program helps prepare families for the upcoming deployment by making them aware of the resources that are available.

"These deployments impact our families, our employers and our communities," Ward said.

"We do our best to assist our Soldiers, their families and employers, because it takes everyone pulling together to be successful."