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Iowa Army National Guard, families send off soldiers deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve
Friday’s ceremony last of 24 this week deploying 1,800 Iowa troops
May. 30, 2025 8:03 pm
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CEDAR RAPIDS — Friday was the last of this week’s send-offs across the state for the Iowa Army National Guard, but certainly not the last of thousands of thoughts, hopes and prayers that will follow soldiers deployed to the Middle East.
In Cedar Rapids, 105 troops and their families at the Cedar Rapids Armory joined about 1,700 other troops in the last of 24 ceremonies celebrating the commitment of men and women across Iowa.
“These send-offs are a vital tradition,” said Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn, Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard. “They represent not only the courage and dedication of our soldiers but also the unwavering support of the communities that stand behind them.”
The Iowans will deploy to Iraq and Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, where they will provide security, support partner nations and assist efforts to maintain stability in the region.
“Today, we don’t just say farewell, we reaffirm our deep respect and unwavering support for these soldiers who have, once again, answered our nation’s calls,” said Brig. Gen. Derek Adams. “You are citizen soldiers who balance the demands of civilian responsibilities with a readiness to serve wherever and whenever needed.”
Troops will undergo intensive training at Fort Johnson, Louisiana, where they will prepare them for the mission ahead.
But nearly every speaker affirmed, for hundreds of family members present, that the scope of support for the mission at hand goes beyond the Middle East. Adams, who has deployed four times, knows this moment is one not just of celebration, but of difficulty.
“Know that your role is not just vital, but foundational,” he told families. “Your resilience, support and love allow these soldiers to focus on the mission ahead. Your sacrifice is profoundly appreciated.”
The methods of preparation and emotions vary from family to family.
For Spc. Nowai Kpartipa, of Cedar Rapids, it has been the little things to spend time with family — pizza with her brother, a cookout at her friend’s house, or going to Spare Time with her nephew. This is her first deployment.
She manages excitement and sadness as she embarks on a new experience.
“I’ve been trying not to put my mind too much on it, because I know that once I put my mind on it I will get emotional,” said Kpartipa, 27. “I know once I get on the bus, all bets are off and I will cry.”
She takes pride in serving in the National Guard, which she says doesn’t get enough credit for serving overseas.
“It seems that we get looked down on,” she said. “People say we’re weekend warriors, but we’re so much more than that.”
Josie Gbandi and her two young sons said goodbye to Quddousse Gbandi, their husband and father. They’ve been preparing for a long time, but the send-off is where the rubber meets the road.
“We knew it was coming, but it’s still hard because we have someone who is so young,” Josie said.
Their older 3-year old son “doesn’t really understand, so it’s going to be really hard,” Josie said. Past deployments have been difficult for their son, who has had behavioral issues after his father leaves.
This deployment will be significantly longer.
When Quddousse returns, their 4-month-old will be a whole different baby. The Lone Tree resident’s greatest concern during deployment is for his children.
For Hilary Higuera, seeing off her son, Riley Goss, a few small words through tears said a lot about what families experience.
Worry and anxiety, she said, among other things.
“A sign over one of our military bases literally reads ‘Peace is our profession,’” said State Sen. Charlie McClintock. “Our ultimate goal is world peace, and the U.S. desires it so much that we’ve gone to war for it to get it. Your mission today is a continuation of maintaining that peace.”
The Iowa Army National Guard’s Brigade Combat (IBCT) Team has maintained an aggressive operational tempo with extensive training requirements, according to Colonel Eric Soults, IBCT Commander for the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. Their recognition as the best of the Army National Guard is why they continue to be selected for difficult and critical assignments.
“These challenges have been shouldered not only by our soldiers, but also our families, communities, and employers,” he said. “However, this is a part of the process of being one of the most respected units in the Army.
“We recognize this time is busy and can be stressful, but I have no doubt that we will accomplish the mission, return as a team and successfully reunite with our families.”
Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.
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