LANSING, MICH. - Approximately 281 Soldiers of the Jackson, based 1461st Transportation Company, Michigan Army National Guard will be honored Saturday with a "Freedom Salute Campaign" in recognition of their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The Soldiers mobilized to Camp Atterbury, Ind., in June 2006 for in-processing and mission specific training, before deploying to Iraq in August. During their deployment, the 1461st supported 28,000 Soldiers throughout a 24,000 square mile area; logged 800,000 miles on 275 combat logistical patrols; and performed 120 escort missions involving more than 1,800 vehicles.

The unit encountered more than 50 improvised explosive device. In June 2007, unit member Sgt. Matthew Soper, 25, of Jackson, died of wounds suffered from an. IED. Sgt. Soper was one of many Soldiers who volunteered for a second deployment to Iraq.

The Freedom Salute ceremony will recognize and honor the families, employers, and other "centers of influence" of each Guard member. Each Soldier will receive an encased American flag, lapel insignia, commemorative coin, and a certificate of appreciation. Soldiers on their second OIF deployment will receive a Freedom ring and their spouse will receive a clock in recognition of their service. The remaining spouses will receive a commemorative lapel pin. Employers and other centers of influence will receive a medallion.

During the ceremony, 14 Purple Heart Medals, 24 Bronze Star Medals, and 108 Combat Action Badges will be awarded to 1461st members.

Today, approximately 900 Michigan National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are deployed across the globe at locations such as Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Kosovo, and the Arizona, New Mexico and Texas borders. Since Sept. 11, 2001, approximately 85 percent of the Michigan Guard has 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

Media is invited to attend the ceremony scheduled to begin at 1 p.m.,

Saturday, Dec. 1, at Jackson Community College, The Potter Center, 2111 Emmons Road, Jackson, MI 49201