This week, the first wave of more than 550 Citizen-Soldiers from the Minnesota National Guard’s 34th Infantry Division, also known as the Red Bulls, arrived back in Minnesota after a ten-month deployment to the Middle East.
During their mission, the Red Bulls operated across seven countries, working to build partner nations’ military capacity, promote regional self-reliance, and enhance security. The Soldiers represented over 200 communities across Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, and other states. Local communities represented include Avon, Cold Spring, Little Falls, Paynesville, Pierz, St. Cloud, St. Joseph, Sartell, and Sauk Rapids.
This deployment adds to the storied history of the 34th Infantry Division, which previously served in Kuwait (2018-2019) for Operation Spartan Shield and Iraq (2009-2010) for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Welcome home to the Red Bulls, and thank you for your service in keeping our nation and its allies secure!