Oregon National Guard Mobilizes Elite Unit for Critical Middle East Mission
Happy Valley, Oregon – Eight highly specialized members of the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) Support Detachment were honored in a mobilization ceremony at Camp Whitycombe on April 15. These dedicated citizen-soldiers are preparing for a vital deployment to the Middle East, where they will support U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) operations.
The 150th TMDE is an indispensable asset for the Army National Guard, playing a crucial role in maintaining the accuracy of diagnostic equipment, upholding strict Army calibration standards, and bolstering unit readiness across all missions. Falling primarily under the Ordnance Corps, their work is fundamental to effective support and maintenance operations.
Following a period of intense deployment rotations for the Oregon Army National Guard, which saw hundreds of soldiers mobilized from regions including the Middle East, Kosovo, and the Horn of Africa in 2024-2025, the 150th TMDE marks the first group of Citizen-Soldiers to mobilize in 2026. This small but mighty team, comprising less than a dozen members, is undertaking a highly specialized role.
Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard, emphasized the profound significance of their mission. “Eight soldiers, that’s the size of this formation today – eight,” he stated. “I want everyone in the room to understand something. That number doesn’t capture the mission’s importance or the impact this unit will have downrange. Some of the most critical work in any military operation is accomplished by a small team.”
These U.S. Army soldiers are experts in calibrating and repairing the diagnostic testing equipment that is essential for all other units. Their support spans critical areas such as aviation, communications, medical, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) defense, as well as complex weapons systems. Their meticulous work ensures that instruments provide accurate measurements and reliable readings, thereby guaranteeing the safety and dependability of equipment soldiers rely on with their lives.
“To the members of the 150th TMDE, you carry Oregon with you and carry over 25 years of history from the Balkans, to Iraq, to Poland and Romania, and now the Middle East,” Gronewold proudly remarked. “That’s a legacy worth honoring, and you are adding to it today.”
The unit’s distinguished history dates back to 1999, when it was established as Detachment 4, 1241st Ordnance Team, dedicated to providing precision calibration support for Army systems. Today, the 150th TMDE Support Detachment continues to be a vital contributor to Army readiness, supporting both domestic and international missions with unwavering commitment.
“And now in 2026, the 150th deploys once again. A new mission for the same standards of excellence,” Gronewold affirmed. “When a helicopter maintenance crew uses a torque wrench, they need reliable readings. When a medic uses a diagnostic instrument, lives depend on that instrument being correct. The 150th is the unit that makes sure those standards are met.”
Lt. Col. Rocky Kumlin, Commander of the 821st Troop Command Battalion, echoed this sentiment of high standards and pride in their specialized capabilities. Addressing the unit and their families, he shared, “It’s a privilege as I stand here today, and as the first time as the battalion commander to send off citizen-soldiers.” He noted that the soldiers would undergo additional training before deploying overseas, adding, “The preparation to support Operation Inherent Resolve began long before today, and I appreciate everything you’ve done and what you’re about to embark upon for our nation and state.”
Kumlin extended heartfelt gratitude to the family members who will “cover down on the home front” during this mission, a deployment for which all eight members volunteered. “As you go forward, hold your head high, carry your Guidon with purpose. It’s a history with a proud legacy, and know that we will be counting the days until you return home,” Kumlin concluded, emphasizing the nation’s appreciation for their service.
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