Trenton, New Jersey. (January 14, 2024}: In this photo by Specialist Michael Schwenk, 1,500 New Jersey National Guard soldiers gather for a farewell ceremony as they prepare to deploy in support the U.S. Central Command’s Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. The Combined Task Force advises and assists coalition forces fighting to defeat the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq, Syria, and Libya. Operation Inherent Resolve is chiefly an American and British effort along with local allies to defeat ISIS militarily and to free innocent civilians trapped in their self-proclaimed caliphate's territory.
America contributes combat ground troops, mostly special forces, along with regular infantry and artillery units. This is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008. The Soldiers, from the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, will spend five weeks additional training at Fort Bliss, Texas before deploying overseas.
The 44th Brigade consists of three light infantry battalions, one field artillery battalion, a cavalry squadron, and an engineer unit. Nicknamed the “Jersey Blues,” the 44th dates to the 17th Century with early units of the brigade serving in both the French and Indian and the Revolutionary Wars.
Today’s Guard has engaged in several Global War on Terrorism missions and have deployed to Oman, Turkey, Iraq, Guantanamo Bay, Afghanistan, Germany, and Egypt in direct support of the war. When they are not answering a national call up, the New Jersey Guard is routinely called upon to provide military support to civil authorities during civil emergencies, natural disasters, and significant severe weather events.
Support Our Troops wishes these soldiers and their families god speed and a safe return home.