02.17.18

Hoeven Honors Work of 191st Military Police Company and Families at Send-Off Ceremony in Bismarck

BISMARCK, N.D. – At a send-off ceremony, Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee, today commended members of the North Dakota National Guard’s 191st Military Police (MP) Company on their commitment to serve North Dakota and the United States. Twenty-nine soldiers from the Fargo-based unit will be deploying to Afghanistan for a year in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.

“The men and women of our North Dakota National Guard are always ready to serve,” said Hoeven. “No matter where you go or where you have been sent, your efforts and commitment to excellence have distinguished your unit and the North Dakota National Guard. Our state is proud to be represented by you. We also recognize the sacrifices you and your families are making during the next year as you deploy to Afghanistan. We join with them in praying for your quick and safe return.”

Hoeven continues to support the work of the North Dakota National Guard and earlier this month introduced legislation deeming National Guard activities essential, ensuring that National Guard trainings and drills would continue in the event of a government shutdown and preventing Guard members from being furloughed. The Fiscal Year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act included Hoeven’s amendment to ensure National Guard unmanned aircraft pilots receive timely training as well as an authorization of health care benefits for Guard members deployed for pre-planned operations. In addition, the President signed into law legislation to improve the G.I. bill, which included a provision Hoeven backed to expand Guard members’ eligibility for education benefits.

The 191st MP specializes in law enforcement activities including criminal investigations, area security and mobility support operations. The unit has a detachment in Grand Forks and consists of soldiers from more than 40 communities across North Dakota and neighboring states.

About 30 members of the 191st MP were previously deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba from 2012-2013. From 2008-2009, nearly 200 soldiers from the 191st MP were deployed to Iraq, earning 4 purple hearts, more than 20 Bronze Star Medals and more than 150 Army Commendation Medals for their service.

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