The 10th Mountain Division was formed to fight in the cold, mountainous regions of Europe as the United States entered World War II.

“Our first combat deployment was to Italy in 1944 or 45,” Fort Drum and 10th Mountain Division Commanding General Major General Gregory Anderson said.

And now, 80 years later, the division is making its return.

“It's kind of coming around a little bit full circle here. And to go back to Europe, which is in trouble again now because of Russia's aggression,” Major General Anderson said.

Anderson cased the division's colors Tuesday as he prepares to lead more than 500 headquarters troops on this deployment. It is a mission to support NATO's allies as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve.

“We're going to bring a very highly trained, very seasoned division staff,” he added.

Now, this mission will be quite different than the counterinsurgency counterterrorism fight of the Middle East that the 10th became so trusted for. And instead, will be transitioning back to a more traditional, much more historic type of warfare, teaming up with allies.

“And that's ultimately what you want to do in peacetime, is hone your skills with your teammates to get the best growth and best capability you can,” Anderson added.

And while this ceremony serves to be ceremonial, to represent where the division leadership is around the world, it also is a chance for command to say one last goodbye to the home it's leaving behind.

“Thanks for taking care of our soldiers and families and please keep doing it,” General Anderson added.

It's critical because that support at home is one less thing for someone to worry about while they're away.

Back during World War II, the soldiers of the 10th Mountain chased retreating Germans through a region known as Po Valley and onto the shores of Lake Garda, where the Germans would surrender.