Iowa National Guard soldiers to begin returning home this week
DES MOINES, Iowa — Dozens of Iowa families are just days away from welcoming their loved ones home, as Iowa National Guard troops begin returning from overseas deployment this week.
Guard leadership said the homecoming follows a particularly difficult mission, and officials are preparing to provide extensive support to soldiers and families as service members transition back to civilian life.
The first group of troops is scheduled to return Wednesday afternoon after months of deployment in the Middle East.
Deployment in Support of Operation Inherent Resolve
Iowa National Guard members were deployed as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, a coalition mission focused on strengthening security and supporting efforts against ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
Photos released by the U.S. Department of Defense show Iowa Guard troops transporting medical supplies, clearing landmines, and securing landing zones during their service overseas.
Welcome-Home Ceremonies This Week
Approximately 250 soldiers are expected to return during the first wave this week.
Two welcome-home ceremonies are planned Wednesday at the 132nd Air Wing at the Des Moines International Airport. Another group of troops is also scheduled to return to Sioux City the same day.
The ceremonies will be open to the public.
Ceremony Details:
- Location: 132d Air Wing, Des Moines International Airport
- Address: 3100 McKinley Ave, Des Moines, IA 50321
- Date: Wednesday, February 11
- Arrival/Ceremony Times:
- 3:00 p.m.
- 4:30 p.m.
Focus Shifts to Reintegration Support
As the deployment comes to an end, the Iowa National Guard is now shifting its focus toward reintegration — helping soldiers adjust back into family routines, civilian jobs, and community life.
That effort is being led by the Guard’s Warrior and Family Services Branch, which has been preparing resources ahead of the troops’ arrival.
Military leaders noted that reintegration can be challenging, particularly for soldiers returning from high-risk environments.
Deployment Marked by Tragic Loss
This homecoming also carries added emotional weight following a deadly ambush in mid-December, when two Iowa National Guard members were killed in Syria.
Staff Sgt. Edgar Torres-Tovar and Staff Sgt. William Howard lost their lives in the attack, while three additional soldiers were wounded.
Guard officials said the tragedy has increased awareness around mental health and support needs for returning troops.
Resources Ready for Soldiers and Families
According to Guard leadership, support services have been “pre-positioned” to help address any challenges that may arise.
“We are standing by and prepared to address those issues that will pop up,” said Lt. Col. Ryan Sextro, Director of Prevention and Resilience Services for the Iowa National Guard. “We don’t know what those things are, but we have a whole catalog of services that we’re ready to execute to support each and every individual soldier and family.”
Services include:
- Counseling and mental health support
- Financial and housing guidance
- Employment and career transition assistance
- Case-by-case help for personal and family needs
Guard officials emphasized that no concern is too small and that support will be tailored to each individual.
How to Stay Updated
The Iowa National Guard encourages families and community members to follow official updates through its website, social media pages, and mobile app.
Support is also available through:
- Iowa National Guard Resource Line: 515-252-4776
- Military & Family Life Counselor: 571-456-2771
