Soldiers from the Oregon National Guard have returned home after a year-long deployment in Kosovo, where they successfully responded to one of the largest terrorist attacks in the country in recent years.

A welcome-home ceremony was held at Camp Withycombe, where military leaders praised their role in safeguarding peace and building partnerships as part of the KFOR mission.

Colonel Peter Helzer, commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, said the Oregon troops carried out over 4,000 security patrols, 13,000 public engagements, and 5,000 hours of volunteer work. During their deployment, they played a key role in securing critical infrastructure following a major terrorist incident near the Ibër Lepenc canal.

“This experience didn’t just make us stronger as a team – it made us more prepared to respond to emergencies back home” Helzer said.

Around 300 soldiers returned in two waves, the majority from the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment based in Springfield, Oregon.

Leaders also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families of the deployed troops, highlighting their crucial support during the mission.