Two hundred soldiers recently returned to Fort Drum after nine months in the Middle East. They were there for nearly a full year in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

While overseas, they were providing security and advice while assisting and enabling allied countries with security operations in Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Kuwait.

“I have to say, for this team coming back, from across 1st Brigade but predominantly 3-71 CAV, they came back from a very, very difficult mission in the Middle East," said Major General Gregory Anderson, the 10th Mountain Division commanding general.

The 200 soldiers, after touching down on Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, were desperate to reunite with family. They had to finish some last-minute business with an equipment check and COVID test before they could begin their welcome-home ceremony attended by family, friends and colleagues.