Press Release
December 8, 2006

Lansing, Mich. -- Approximately 140 Soldiers from the Grand Ledge-based 238th Aviation Battalion, Michigan Army National Guard, will return to the Grand Ledge Armory today following their 12 month tour in Kosovo, as part of Task Force Talon, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. 

The unit was called to active duty in July, 2005.  While in country TF Talon's accomplishments include 8500 safely flown aircraft hours, 500 simulator hours, fueling of 4500 aircraft with 904,653 gallons of JP8 fuel pumped and the phasing of 22 aircraft.  By maintaining 24-hour operations, TF Talon was able to plan and execute over 2500 missions.  One of the most lasting accomplishments of Talon was the Adopt-a-School Program. Talon raised over $60,000 for a multi-ethnic school in the small town of Binac.

Today, approximately 1,600 Michigan National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are deployed across the globe, at locations such as Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Bosnia.  Since Sept., 11, 2001, 75 percent of the Michigan Guard has been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom; however, as Michigan troops serve the nation, more than 80 percent of the Michigan Guard remains available and ready to respond to a state emergency including a terrorist event.

  MEDIA ADVISORY:

Today's event starts around 7 p.m. at the Grand Ledge Armory, 10602 Eaton Hwy.  The unit is expected to arrive around 7 p.m.  Media is invited to attend.  Families are expected to arrive up to one hour early and are available for interviews. 

 (For more information, contact Sfc. Jim Downen at work (517)481-8138, or cell (517) 243-0587.)