SALEM, Ore., - The first group of Oregon's Citizen-soldiers returned to Fort Lewis, Wash., April 3, signaling the beginning of the end of the 41 Infantry Brigade Combat Team's nearly year-long deployment to Iraq.
"It's good to be home," said Spc. Howard Pierson of B Troop, 1-82 Cavalry Regiment. "I never thought it'd be nice to see cloudy rainy weather, but it's good to be home."
Howard, along with about 120 soldiers of Oregon's 41 IBCT, were greeted by Brig. Gen. Charles Yriarte, the BCT's rear detachment commander, as they stepped off their plane at McChord Air Force Base, Wash.
The Oregon Army National Guard soldiers represent the first of the nearly 2,700 troops with the 41 IBCT. who have spent the last year in Iraq conducting missions such as convoy security, force protection, and assisting with the developing infrastructure.
Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Foesch of the 41st Special Troops Battalion Command, said he couldn't be more proud of the Soldiers he deployed with.
"The quality of Soldiers that we're bringing back from this deployment is outstanding," said Foesch.
The rest of the 41 IBCT is scheduled to arrive at McChord Air Force Base, Wash., during the next few weeks.
The 41 IBCT will remain at Fort Lewis until they have completed their post-deployment medical review and the beginning of the reintegration process.
Guard officials said several demobilization ceremonies are tentatively scheduled for later this month.