U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, and Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, the Adjutant General, Oregon, are scheduled to greet the initial return of Oregon Army National Citizen-Soldiers from Bravo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery and Alpha Company, 141st Brigade Support Battalion arriving to Oregon from a yearlong mobilization at the Portland International Airport, today at 2:30 p.m.  

This is the first arrival of two groups who mobilized to Qatar in September 2019.  Known as Task Force Arrow, these Oregon National Guard members were charged with securing critical infrastructure and personnel, and acted as a quick reactionary force throughout the region. Returning Guard members come from Portland, Forest Grove, McMinnville and Salem communities.  The Task Force demobilized at Ft. Bliss, Texas where they completed an additional 14-day quarantine prior to their departure for Oregon. The second group is scheduled to arrive later in the week.

“This team of nearly 500 Oregonians supported overseas operations while being separated from their loved ones back home.  Thank you and a big Welcome Home!” said Stephen Bomar, Director of Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department.

The initial greeting is scheduled to be on the Portland International Airport flight line at 5510 NE Courier Court, in the vicinity of Hanjin Global Logistics and Airtrans Way at 2:30 p.m.  Soldiers will then depart via bus to the Jackson and Kliever armories where they will be greeted by their families, friends and loved ones.

The public and media are welcome to attend receptions at the armory locations respecting social distancing and wearing face covers accordingly.

Armory Locations:

Kliever Armory - 10000 NE 33rd Dr #1751, Portland, OR 97211

Jackson Armory - 6255 NE Cornfoot Rd, Portland, OR 97218