Connecticut National Guard Deployment Send-Off with Governor Lamont

On Friday morning, hundreds of Connecticut National Guard soldiers boarded flights from Bradley International Airport. They’re headed out for a yearlong mission in the Middle East.

The troops are members of the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment. They’re deploying as part of Operation Spartan Shield, focusing on base defense and the urgent task of countering enemy drones.

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These citizen-soldiers are leaving behind families and jobs in towns across Connecticut to serve overseas. It’s another chapter in the Guard’s long commitment to both state and national security.

Connecticut’s Citizen-Soldiers Answer the Call

These men and women come from places like Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, Waterbury, Norwich, Danbury, and New Britain. They live the dual life of the modern National Guard member.

Most work civilian jobs and train monthly, until active-duty orders demand their full attention. Now, their mission sends them to U.S. military sites in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria.

Tensions in the region have made base security a bigger deal than ever. The stakes feel high.

Mission Focus: Drone Defense and Base Security

Operation Spartan Shield covers a lot, but for this deployment, Connecticut’s unit will focus on defending U.S. installations from both physical and aerial threats. The risk from unmanned aerial systems (UAS) keeps growing, especially after recent incidents with drones operated by forces aligned with Iran.

Officials pointed to the deadly attack in Jordan last January—claimed by Iranian proxies—which killed three U.S. soldiers. Counter-drone vigilance now feels like an absolute must for deployed troops.

Training for a Complex Combat Environment

The 102nd Infantry Regiment has spent the past year in tough drills to get ready for this mission. That included a NATO exercise in Europe to sharpen coordination with allied forces and boost readiness for complex security operations.

Training like that matters when operating with other nations, where teamwork can tip the scales. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary.

Pre-Deployment Training in Texas

Before heading to the Middle East, the soldiers will finish more training in Texas. This last phase adapts skills to local conditions, checks equipment, and tests unit cohesion under stress.

Only after that will they fly out to their final active duty sites overseas. It’s a lot to process, honestly.

Support from Leaders and Communities

The send-off at Bradley International Airport drew Connecticut leaders like Gov. Ned Lamont, Rep. Jim Himes, and Rep. Joe Courtney. Each praised the soldiers’ dedication, courage, and selflessness.

Maj. Gen. Francis Evon Jr., the state’s top Guard officer, talked about their role as citizen-soldiers serving for a cause bigger than themselves. That’s not something you hear every day.

Concerns Over Pay During Federal Uncertainty

Lawmakers raised concerns about a possible federal government shutdown and its impact on soldier paychecks. Himes pointed out that these Connecticut troops will be leading America’s counter-drone efforts, so it’s critical they get steady financial support.

Community Commitment to Families

While the troops serve abroad, leadership has promised strong support for their families back home. Across Connecticut—in cities like Middletown, Meriden, and Groton—friends, neighbors, and veterans’ groups are getting ready to help loved ones handle the tough months ahead.

These networks keep morale up for deployed soldiers, knowing their families aren’t facing it all alone. It’s hard to overstate how much that matters.

Why This Mission Matters

This deployment isn’t just about checking a box for U.S. defense policy—it’s a real reminder of Connecticut’s role in national security. Every mission the Guard takes on strengthens partnerships, deters aggression, and helps protect American lives overseas.

In the world of drone defense, these soldiers are right on the front lines of modern military operations. The threats change fast, and the stakes are real.

A Year of Service Abroad

For the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment, the next year won’t be easy. It’ll demand sacrifice, a sharp eye, and a chance for real professional growth.

When these folks finally get back to Connecticut—back to their families in Fairfield County, their jobs in Tolland County, and their neighborhoods all over the state—they’ll return changed. The stories and experience they bring with them will add something new to how we see service today.

Here is the source article for this story: Lamont, state officials attend send-off for Connecticut National Guard deploying to the Middle East

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