DES MOINES, Iowa – A contingent of 140 Iowa National Guard soldiers has safely returned to U.S. soil following their deployment to the Middle East. These brave men and women were serving as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, a mission aimed at promoting stability and countering the presence of ISIS in Syria and Iraq.

The soldiers, members of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, are expected to be honored with a welcome home ceremony in Des Moines, tentatively scheduled for next week. Preparations for this heartfelt event are currently underway, with further details to be announced once finalized.

During their deployment, these service members operated alongside coalition and regional partners. While 140 soldiers have now returned to their families, approximately 200 Iowa National Guard personnel remain deployed in the Middle East, continuing their involvement in Operation Inherent Resolve.