SHELBYVILLE, IL… State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) honored National Guard soldiers in the Blackhawk Battalion, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment at one of the mobilization ceremonies held as the soldiers prepare to deploy for Operation Spartan Shield. The Battalion, known as the Blackhawk Battalion, is headquartered in Marion with units based in Marion, West Frankfort, Litchfield, Mt. Vernon, and Effingham.
At the mobilization ceremony held on February 8th in Effingham, Rep. Halbrook expressed his gratitude for the Blackhawk Battalion’s approximately 550 guardsmen and women as they set out to sacrifice and continue their commitment to protecting our nation.
“Operation Spartan Shield is taking you to one of the most violent places in the world,” said Rep. Halbrook. “It takes a tremendous amount of courage to willingly deploy and takes character and patriotism. America is worth fighting for and defending. You are living proof of that profound truth.”
At the Company B, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment Mobilization Ceremony, 130 soldiers and their families attended as they prepare to deploy. Various mobilization ceremonies were held in southern Illinois to commemorate the Blackhawk Battalion’s upcoming mission to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.
While deployed, the Blackhawk Battalion’s mission will be to secure and protect the United States and allied forces, while also focusing on training. The battalion will be headquartered in Jordan and will have soldiers in 17 different locations across seven countries.
With questions, please contact Rep. Halbrook’s office at (217) 342-0220 or by visiting RepHalbrook.com.
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