FORT SMITH, Ark. – Seventy-eight Soldiers from the Arkansas Army National Guard’s 142nd Field Artillery Brigade have returned home to Arkansas, arriving at Ebbing Air National Guard Base after completing a federal mission in Washington, D.C. Known as the "D.C. Safe and Beautiful" mission, their deployment included providing support for visible safety patrols, deterrence, and civil security in collaboration with the District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Department.
The returning Soldiers, part of the brigade’s “Team Razorback,” were welcomed on the flight line by military leadership, fellow service members, and their families before heading to their home communities across Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley.
“We are extremely proud to welcome these 78 Soldiers back home,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Evans, senior enlisted leader of the 142nd Field Artillery Brigade. “Their presence and professionalism in Washington, D.C. reflected the highest standards of the Arkansas National Guard. We extend our deepest gratitude to their families, employers, and the Fort Smith community for their unwavering support throughout this deployment.”
During their deployment, the Soldiers not only contributed to maintaining public safety through high-visibility patrols but also provided emergency trauma response and first aid during critical incidents. Their efforts earned individual service commendations for exemplary conduct and performance.
“Our Soldiers stepped into a complex civil environment in our nation’s capital and executed their mission with precision, discipline, and absolute professionalism,” said Command Chief Master Sgt. Scott Manamon, Arkansas Command Senior Enlisted Leader. “Whether providing a reassuring, visible presence on patrol or delivering immediate emergency medical care, this detachment proved that the 142nd Field Artillery Brigade is ready to answer the call anytime, anywhere. I could not be prouder of their performance and the example they set for the entire nation and the Arkansas National Guard.”