Selfridge-based Army National Guard unit returns from Iraq

PRESS RELEASE

February 24, 2005

Lansing. – Approximately 70 Soldiers from Detachment 1, Company G, 185th Aviation, Michigan Army National Guard will return to Selfridge tomorrow, following a 12 month tour of duty in Iraq.

Company G, was mobilized in January 2003 and arrived in Iraq, March 2003. The unit had just reorganized and moved from Grand Ledge to the Self ridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township.

"The deployment happened quickly." said Christina Binkley, president of the 185th Family Readiness Group. "They are the first Michigan Army National Guard aviation unit, in history, to be deployed to a combat area."

While in Iraq, the unit flew the Chinook combat support helicopter for various airlift missions.

Today, more than 2,000 Michigan National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are deployed across the globe. As the Michigan Guard serves the nation, more than 9,000 members remain, in reserve, ready to respond to state emergencies including homeland defense events.

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MEDIA ADVISORY

Media is invited to attend this brief welcome home ceremony, media should meet at the Selfridge main gate at 6:15 a.m. on Friday morning. For clearance and for more information, please contact 1st Lt. Lynn Chapp at 517-281-8240.

About Family Readiness Groups-

Family Readiness Groups provide a support mechanism for family members of deployed military personnel and, in essence, become an extended family. For more information about the Michigan National Guard Family Program, visit them at http://michguard.com/family/frg/default.asp.