Vermont Guard Heads to Middle East

Over 500 Vermont National Guard troops are set to deploy to the Middle East next week for Spartan Shield — a high-stakes mission to secure bases amid rising regional tensions. Though officials say the deployment isn’t directly tied to current conflicts, the presence of U.S. forces always carries the potential for rapid escalation. Families, brass, and state leaders gathered for a solemn send-off at the Ethan Allen Firing Range, as Adjutant General Henry Harder highlighted the evolving demands of modern warfare. This infantry battalion includes troops from New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts — adding to nearly 1,000 Vermont Guard members already overseas, including 200 in the Middle East and 200 in Germany. The mission will keep these soldiers busy for about ten months, marking a major commitment from the National Guard. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/221e36e057c402ee