Peace Garden News

Senator John Hoeven expressed his gratitude to the North Dakota National Guard's 817th Engineer Company for their service at the U.S. southern border during a year-long deployment. He acknowledged the crucial role played by these Guard members in national security, extending thanks to them and their families for their sacrifices both domestically and internationally. Hoeven highlighted the recognition received by the 817th during this deployment, including:

- 62 Army Commendation Medals

- 53 Army Achievement Medals

- 9 Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medals

- 2 Meritorious Service Medals

"The members of the National Guard, particularly in North Dakota, are some of the finest men and women our nation has to offer. The 817th Engineer Company’s record of excellence during their recent deployment to the southern border drives this point home," stated Hoeven. "We are deeply grateful to our Guard members for all of the ways they protect our country and for representing our state with honor and distinction. We continue working to ensure they have the training, equipment and support they need to succeed in the wide range of missions we ask of them. At the same time, getting our border under control remains a top priority for the new Congress and administration. That means supporting our border professionals and giving CBP the technology, infrastructure and personnel needed to secure the border."

Since 2018, four units from the North Dakota National Guard have been deployed to assist at the southern border: the 957th Engineer Company, the 1-112th Aviation Regiment, the 817th Engineer Company, and the 142nd Engineer Battalion. Senator Hoeven previously met with NDNG members in El Paso, Del Rio, and Eagle Pass, Texas to emphasize issues at the southern border and highlight NDNG's role in supporting CBP operations.