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@OregonGuard
MEDFORD, Ore. — Retired General Daniel R. Hokanson, the 29th Chief of the National Guard Bureau, was honored Saturday in a ceremony at the Medford Armory, celebrating his 38-year military career and deep ties to Oregon.
The ceremony, held on Aug. 17, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the Assembly Hall of the Medford Armory, came just weeks after Gen. Hokanson's official retirement from his position as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on July 31.
Gen. Hokanson, who previously served as the Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, chose Southern Oregon for this ceremony to recognize the region's significant role in his military journey.
When asked why his final retirement ceremony is in Medford, Gen. Hokanson said, "Southern Oregon has always held a special place in my heart; it's the closest to home I could get, and the Oregon Guard has been so amazing to Kelly and I"
The event featured standard military honors, including musical performances by the 234th Army Band, presentation of medals, and remarks from Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees (Ret.) and his son Capt. McKinnon Hokanson.
During his tenure as Chief of the National Guard Bureau from 2020 to 2024, Gen. Hokanson led the Guard through unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic response and numerous natural disasters. Under his leadership, the National Guard administered 35 million COVID tests, disinfected 71,000 facilities, supported over 1,000 food banks, and delivered over 1 million meals to the American public.
Gen. Hokanson also oversaw the Guard's participation in the evacuation of Afghan civilians in 2021, which became the largest non-combatant evacuation operation in U.S. history.
In a farewell letter released earlier this month, Gen. Hokanson expressed gratitude for his service, stating, "It has been a tremendous honor to serve as your Chief, and my wife Kelly and I are forever grateful for your faith and your support."
Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees (Ret.), who served as the Oregon adjutant general three times for a total of 17 years and held numerous high-ranking positions in the National Guard, spoke at the ceremony. He reflected on Gen. Hokanson's journey, saying, "Personally, it's been a great honor to have seen you both blossom and grow in each of these positions you have held throughout your 29 years as members of the Oregon guard. For the Oregonians, the return on investment from the Oregon military department and the Oregon National Guard has been enormous, but I dare say that the same can be said for the National Guard of every state and territory."
Gen. Hokanson's career began with his graduation from the United States Military Academy in 1986 and included combat deployments to Panama, Afghanistan, and Iraq. His final day at the Pentagon on July 31 was marked by a traditional clap-out ceremony, symbolizing the respect and admiration he earned throughout his distinguished career.
The Medford ceremony serves not only as a tribute to Gen. Hokanson's service but also as a homecoming, highlighting the strong connection between the National Guard and local communities across the nation. Armories like the one in Medford play a crucial role in this relationship, serving as hubs where citizen-soldiers train and prepare for both state and federal missions.
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Released B-Roll: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/934310/gen-daniel-r-hokanson-oregon-retirement-ceremony-broll
Released photos:
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Retired Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, former Chief of the National Guard Bureau, and Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees (Ret.), former Oregon Adjutant General, stand at attention as the Oregon Military Honors Team presents the colors during the national anthem at Gen. Hokanson's retirement ceremony in Medford, Ore., Aug. 17, 2024. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees (Ret.) presents the official certificate of retirement to Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson during Hokanson's retirement ceremony at the Medford Armory in Ore. Aug. 17, 2024. The certificate marks the end of Hokanson's 38-year military career, including his service as the 29th Chief of the National Guard Bureau. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Retired Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson points to a recruitment banner hanging in the Medford Armory as Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, The Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, presents him with a commemorative plaque during his retirement ceremony, Ore., Aug. 17, 2024. The plaque features a photo of the same banner that Hokanson saw as a child at a car show in this armory, which inspired his decision to join the Oregon National Guard and launched his 38-year military career. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Retired Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, former Chief of the National Guard Bureau, delivers remarks during his retirement ceremony at the Medford Armory in Oregon, Aug. 17, 2024. Hokanson reflected on his 38-year military career and expressed gratitude to the Oregon National Guard, friends and extended family for their support throughout his service. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Retired Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, former Chief of the National Guard Bureau, delivers remarks during his retirement ceremony at the Medford Armory in Oregon, Aug. 17, 2024. Hokanson reflected on his 38-year military career and expressed gratitude to the Oregon National Guard, friends and extended family for their support throughout his service. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
Salem, Ore. - The mobilization ceremony for Soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard’s 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) was held today, Aug. 16, at the Salem Armory Auditorium. This event marked the start of their upcoming deployment with the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) for a year-long mission.
During the ceremony, members of the 41st IBCT were honored as they prepared for their deployment, which is part of KFOR’s 34th rotation. Established to end the Kosovo War, KFOR was authorized to deploy an international peacekeeping force to Kosovo, a mission crucial for maintaining regional security and stability.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of their mission.
“It is these times that show us how important our freedom and safety are, whether you serve overseas or here at home,” Kotek said.
KFOR’s mission continues to focus on maintaining security, supporting civil authorities, and ensuring freedom of movement across the region, which is vital for fostering peace in Kosovo amidst ongoing political negotiations between Kosovo and Serbia.
Col. Peter Helzer, Commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, spoke about the deployment’s significance before the ceremony.
“The 41st IBCT brings a robust set of capabilities to support the people of Kosovo. From security to medical and logistical support, Oregonians will contribute to the stability and security of the region as part of the NATO effort,” he said.
To prepare for their deployment, the 41st IBCT will first undergo pre-mobilization training at Fort Cavazos, Texas, followed by additional training in Germany.
Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon, expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families.
“I want to thank you for the sacrifices you and your families have made to serve the state and nation,” he said.
Gen. Daniel Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau and member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also attended the ceremony. As the former 41st IBCT Commander during the Brigade’s 2009-10 deployment to Iraq and former Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, Hokanson praised the soldiers for their service and highlighted that they are among the less than 1% of Americans who serve in this capacity.
To view the ceremony visit the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1028184892013397/.
SALEM, Ore. – A mobilization ceremony for the Oregon Army National Guard’s 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) will be held at the Salem Armory Auditorium, 2320 17th St NE, Salem, Oregon, at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 16, 2024, as Citizen-Soldiers prepare for a year-long mobilization.
The unit will be mobilizing as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) and will be participating in the 34th rotation of this mission, known as KFOR 34.
KFOR was established in 1999 following the signing of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and the subsequent Military Technical Agreement between NATO and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and Serbia. This agreement, signed on June 9, 1999, ended the Kosovo War and authorized NATO to deploy an international peacekeeping force to Kosovo. Since then, KFOR has been responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment in the region, supporting civil authorities, and ensuring freedom of movement for all citizens. The mission is critical in fostering peace and stability in Kosovo, while political dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia continues.
Col. Peter Helzer, the Commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, looks forward to the upcoming mission. “The 41st IBCT brings a robust set of capabilities to support the people of Kosovo. From security forces to medical and logistical support, Oregonians will contribute to the stability and security of the region as part of the broader NATO effort."
Before deploying overseas, the 41st IBCT will conduct pre-mobilization operations at Fort Cavazos, Texas, followed by additional training in Germany for to prepare them for the deployment.
“The Oregon National Guard continues its legacy of simultaneously serving Oregonians with domestic operations here at home while also answering the call for federal mobilizations supporting the United States,” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon. “This is what makes the Oregon National Guard the military service of choice for Oregonians.”
The public can also watch the ceremony via live stream on the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1028184892013397/.
FOREST GROVE, Ore. – Approximately 230 members of the Oregon Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment were formally recognized during their mobilization ceremony held at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024, as they prepared for a year-long mobilization in the Middle East.
Prior to departing overseas, they will first undergo training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma to enhance their proficiencies on the equipment and systems that they will operate as the primary air defenders that American and Coalition partners rely on for force protection.
After completing their training the service members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility.
“The 218th Field Artillery has an exceptionally rich unit history and lineage in which you now are part of,” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard during his remarks to the Soldier and family in attendance. “You will now be task organized as Task Force Defender, for the mission to Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Remember the heavy responsibilities that rest upon your shoulders.”
As part of Task Force DEFENDER, the Oregon Citizen-Soldiers will be conducting rocket, artillery, mortar and unmanned drone defense operations in the Middle East.
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Released photos:
240809-Z-CH590-1120 and 240809-Z-CH590-1124: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, addresses the Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment along with their families and co-workers during the mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-A3543-1244: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon greets Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment at the conclusion of their mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by Remi Flounders, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-CH590-1169: Mr. Doug Grafe, Wildlife and Military Policy Advisor for the State of Oregon, greets Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment at the conclusion of their mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-CH590-1152: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (right) and Brig. Gen. Eric J. Riley, Land Component Commander, Oregon Army National Guard (left), take time to greet Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment at the conclusion of their mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-A3543-1241: Family and friends of the Oregon Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment pay their respects during the playing of the National Anthem during mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by Remi Flounders, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-CH590-1130: Brig. Gen. Eric J. Riley, Land Component Commander, Oregon Army National Guard, addresses the Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment along with their families and co-workers during the mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-A3543-1243: Brig. Gen. Eric J. Riley, Land Component Commander, Oregon Army National Guard, addresses the Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment along with their families and co-workers during the mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by Remi Flounders, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-A3543-1242: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, addresses the Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment along with their families and co-workers during the mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by Remi Flounders, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-CH590-1017: Oregon Army National Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment stand ready prior to taking part in their mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-CH590-1097: Oregon Army National Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment render a hand salute during their mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
240809-Z-CH590-1021: Oregon Army National Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment stand in their unit formation as they take part in their mobilization ceremony held in their honor at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 9, 2024. After finishing their upcoming training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, unit members will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)
SALEM, Ore. – A mobilization ceremony for the Oregon Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment will be held at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon at 1:00 p.m., on August 9, 2024, as Soldiers prepare for a year-long mobilization.
The unit will be mobilizing as part of Task Force DEFENDER, and will be conducting rocket, artillery, mortar and unmanned drone defense operations in the Middle East. Prior to departing overseas, they will first undergo training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma to enhance their proficiencies on the equipment and systems that they will operate as the primary air defenders that American and Coalition partners rely on for force protection.
Upon completing their training, Task Force DEFENDER will be assigned to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, whose mission is to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility.
“The Oregon National Guard continues its legacy of simultaneously serving Oregonians with domestic operations here at home while also answering the call for federal mobilizations supporting the United States, said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon. “This is what makes the Oregon National Guard the military service of choice for Oregonians.”
Attendance for this event is reserved for service members, their families and invited guests. The public can watch the ceremony via live streamed and can be viewed at: www.pacificu.edu/mvs-218
It will also be live streamed on the 41st Infantry Division Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1658604261564488/
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HARNEY COUNTY, Ore. —Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, the Adjutant General of Oregon, and senior leaders visited National Guard members deployed for wildfire response efforts on Tuesday, Aug. 6, underscoring the Guard's crucial role in protecting Oregon's communities.
Gronewold's itinerary included stops at the Harney County Fire Camp and a helicopter staging area near Cottage Grove, where he interfaced with soldiers and airmen on the front lines of the state's wildfire battle.
At the Harney County Fire Camp, Gronewold and senior leaders shared breakfast with Soldiers and Airmen currently fighting the Telephone Fire. During this time, he awarded challenge coins to top performers from the four deployed crews, recognizing their exceptional efforts in the ongoing firefighting operations.
Later, during the visit to the Cottage Grove site supporting the Lane 1 fire complex, an ORANG CH-47 Chinook helicopter was ready for water bucket operations. Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jeremiah Williams, a maintenance test pilot and production control officer with the Oregon National Guard, highlighted the importance of their mission.
"The Oregon National Guard brings a special set of skills and the ability to deploy type one aircraft to assist in firefighting operations," Williams said. "We're augmenting civilian assets with our 2000-gallon water buckets, allowing us to put a lot of water on the fire quickly."
Williams and his team have been on station for three days, flying water bucket operations for two of the days. Their efforts complement those of civilian firefighting assets assigned to the fire.
Brig. Gen. Gronewold's and senior leaders visit is part of the broader mobilization of approximately 90 Guard members who processed through Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration (JRSOI) on Jul. 31 and Aug. 1. These personnel formed four hand crews, each consisting of 22 firefighters and additional support staff.
The Guard also deployed three HH-60 Black Hawk helicopters alongside the CH-47 Chinook. Two Black Hawks are on standby for medical evacuation, while one is available for fire bucket operations.
"It's a real privilege to be out here to support the community, helping out local neighborhoods, and saving structures across the state," Williams added, noting the positive impact of their presence on local morale.
As Oregon battles another challenging wildfire season, the National Guard's efforts remain crucial to the state's response. Brig. Gen. Gronewold emphasized the Guard's role: "These operations exemplify why the Oregon National Guard is the military service of choice for Oregonians," underscoring their commitment to protecting the state in times of crisis.
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Released B-Roll: https://dvidshub.net/r/rigbpr
Released Photos:
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Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, The Adjutant General of Oregon, and Oregon National Guard senior leaders share breakfast with ORNG members at the Harney County Fairgrounds fire camp, Aug. 6, 2024. During his visit, Gronewold met with troops deployed to combat the Telephone Fire, recognizing top performers with challenge coins. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Oregon National Guard Command Senior Enlisted Leader, Command Sgt. Maj. Lee Smith, converses with Chief Master Sgt. Shawn Harbert, the noncommissioned officer in charge of a National Guard hand crew, talks about their firefighting efforts at the Harney County Fairgrounds fire camp, Aug. 6, 2024. Their discussion underscores the Guard's crucial role in Oregon's wildfire response. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Oregon National Guard senior leaders attend the Oregon Department of Forestry's designated Division Z's morning briefing on plans to combat the southeastern portion of the Telephone Fire, Aug. 6, 2024, at the Harney County Fairgrounds fire camp. The briefing highlights the coordinated efforts between Guard members and ODF firefighting teams. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, the Adjutant General of Oregon, speaks with a hand crew of Oregon Air National Guard members before their movement to the Telephone Fire on Aug. 6, 2024, at the Harney County Fairgrounds fire camp. Gronewold's visit boosts morale as Guard members prepare for another day of firefighting operations. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, The Adjutant General of Oregon, presents a TAG challenge coin to Spc. Rodney Chamberlain, an Oregon Army National Guard hand crew member, for exceptional performance fighting the Telephone Fire, Aug. 6, 2024, at the Harney County Fairgrounds fire camp. The recognition highlights the Guard's dedication and effectiveness in wildfire response efforts. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, The Adjutant General of Oregon, Command Sgt. Maj. Lee Smith, and Brig. Gen. Jen Pardy, Oregon National Guard Joint Chief of Staff, confer with Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jeremiah Williams in front of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter equipped with a fire bucket, Aug. 6, 2024, near Cottage Grove, Ore. The discussion highlights the Guard's aerial firefighting capabilities in combating Oregon's wildfires. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
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An Oregon Army National Guard HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, equipped with a fire bucket, stands ready for wildfire suppression operations near Cottage Grove, Ore., Aug. 6, 2024. This aircraft is part of the Guard's aerial firefighting assets deployed to combat the Lane 1 fire complex. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
Unbreakable Bond of Bravo Company 2-162 Infantry Remains Strong After 20 Years
By Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan, Oregon Military Department Joint Force Headquarters Public Affairs
WARRENTON, Ore. - On July 27, 2024, flags fluttered gently in the breeze at Camp Rilea as former members of Oregon’s historic 2nd Battalion, 2-162 Infantry Regiment, and their families gathered to honor their fallen comrade, Spc. Ken “Kenny” Leisten. The event marked the 20th anniversary of Leisten’s death and included a highway dedication and a visit to Willamette National Cemetery.
The dedication at Camp Rilea and the cemetery visit underscored the strong bonds that have defined the battalion since their deployment to Iraq in 2004. The memory of Leisten remains a powerful symbol of unity and strength for the unit.
Leisten’s father, Ken Leisten Sr., has been a dedicated presence at annual memorial events, indicating the deep connections formed during the unit’s service. Each year, members of the battalion come together to honor Leisten, with this year's ceremony featuring flags lining the streets and the post flag at half-mast while Leisten was saluted.
Camp Rilea's Training Site Manager presented coins at the event and State Senator Suzanne Weber was also present for the occasion to hand deliver Oregon Senate Concurrent Resolution 213, which celebrated Leisten’s life and service.
“It was important to deliver the resolution in person,” Weber said. “Leisten and Bravo Company 2-162 are heroes, and their connection to each other should never be forgotten.”
The bond within battalion and Bravo Company is evident in the way members support one another, Sean Davis, a former squad leader in the battalion, said.
“It’s amazing to see how far everyone has come,” Davis said. “The guys who were on my team have achieved incredible things. It’s a testament to this group’s resilience and strength.”
Davis himself has become a prolific artist and writer, channeling his experiences into creative work. His story, like many others, highlights the transformative power of their shared experiences.
Retired Sgt. Maj. Vinnie Jacques, a rifle platoon sergeant in Iraq, emphasized the unit’s ongoing commitment to one another.
“We took care of each other in combat 20 years ago, and we still do today,” Jacques said. “Every person in this unit is willing to step up for one another.”
Jacques was in the same vehicle as Leisten, and mentioned another member of the unit who attended the gathering, Shawn Jenkins, who heroically provided machine gun cover while Jacques and others were being medically evacuated.
Jenkins said, "It’s an honor being part of this group. During my time with Bravo Company, I took on various roles. These guys would go out of their way to make sure you are okay any day of the week. As we mark the 20th anniversary of the passing of a friend and soldier who was willing to give everything without asking for anything, it’s a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond we share."
The annual gatherings and close relationships within Bravo Company demonstrate a strong sense of community. For Ken Leisten Sr., this connection has been a source of personal healing.
“Being part of this group, staying in touch, and seeing the support—it’s like medicine,” he said. “It keeps me going, and I feel proud to be part of this big family.”
Despite the tragedy of losing Kenny Leisten, 2-162 Infantry members have thrived in various fields, becoming police officers, firefighters, teachers, artists, and military leaders. Their achievements showcase the strength and resilience cultivated through their shared experiences.
Bravo is one of the Oregon National Guard’s most historic units being awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. A documentary was made about the 2-162 Infantry by filmmaker Gary Mortensen’s, called “This is War Memories of Iraq,” it captures the bravery and sacrifice of the Battalion, further highlighting their journey. Mike Francis, a former Oregonian reporter who has covered the unit extensively, says their bond has deeply moved him.
“I was impressed by the bond they all have and feel honored to be included,” Francis said after being invited to the 20-year event.
Bravo Company 2-162 Infantry’s annual tribute to Kenny Leisten is more than a memorial; it celebrates the unbreakable bond formed in combat and sustained through mutual support and respect. Their story is evidence of the enduring connections that define their journey and the impact of shared hardship and success.
For more on this story, read Mike Francis’s story about the unit’s 10th anniversary for Leisten and view an interview with Gary Mortensen and his documentary, “This is War.”
Mortensen Interview: https://www.facebook.com/OregonGuard/videos/1395051344542895
Story by Francis: https://www.oregonlive.com/business/2014/07/kenny_leistens_platoon_gathers.html
A book called “The Devil's Sandbox” about 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry at War in Iraq also offers a rare insight into what this war means for the citizen-soldier at home and abroad, written by John Bruning who embedded with the unit during their deployment.
Link to story: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/477726/unbreakable-bond-bravo-company-2-162-infantry-remains-strong-after-20-years
Still Photos:
8568217: Former members of Bravo Company 2-162 Infantry and Ken Leisten Sr. pause for a photo with State Senator Suzanne Weber and a photo from their historic 2004-05 deployment at Camp Rilea in Warrenton, Ore., July 27, 2024. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan, OMD Public Affairs)
8568211: Retired Sgt. Maj. Phillip “Vince” Jacques addresses an audience at the 20-Year Reunion from Bravo Company 2-162 Infantry at Camp Rilea in Warrenton, Ore., July 27, 2024. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan, OMD Public Affairs)
8568209: Former Bravo Company member Ken Kaiser salutes as the U.S. flag moves to half-mast to honor Kenny Leisten at Camp Rilea in Warrenton, Ore., July 27, 2024. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan, OMD Public Affairs)
8568208: Top left to right: Jeffry VonDross; Vince Jacques; James Walker; Tim Marr; Ken Leisten Sr.; Jeromy Turner; Ken Kaiser; Phil VanLuven; and Matt Zedwick. Bottom left to right; Shawn Jenkins; Jason LaCarney; John Sapper; Ivan Watts; John Douglas. Former members of Bravo Company 2-162 Infantry and Ken Leisten Sr. pause for a photo in front of the Fallen Hero Memorial Highway Dedication for Kenny Leisten at Camp Rilea in Warrenton, Ore., July 27, 2024. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan, OMD Public Affairs)
8568207: Former Bravo Company 2-162 Infantry members and Ken Leisten Sr. pause for a photo at Kenny Leisten’s burial site at the Willamette National Cemetery, July 28, 2024. (Photo by Shawn Jenkins)