On this RED FRIDAY, as we remember Everyone Deployed, our thoughts turn not only to the men and women serving overseas but also to the families who wait patiently at home—the unseen heroes who carry the burden of separation with unwavering strength.

Across Connecticut and the nation, spouses, parents, children, and friends endure the challenges of deployment day after day. They manage homes alone, provide emotional support from afar, and keep hope alive through every moment of uncertainty. Their sacrifices sustain the mission and enable our troops to focus on their vital duties abroad.

Community groups and veteran organizations rally to support these families, offering resources, companionship, and relief in times of need. Recognizing the sacrifice of loved ones at home is an essential part of honoring those who wear the uniform.

As we wear red today, we stand united in remembrance of all deployed service members and their families—because freedom demands sacrifice from more than just those in uniform.

We don’t forget. We don’t take freedom for granted. We wear red.
RED FRIDAY. Remember Everyone Deployed.

U.S. Army Extends Tour Lengths in South Korea to Enhance Stability, Readiness, and Regional Security

The U.S. Army has recently announced a significant change in its overseas assignment policy, extending tour lengths for soldiers stationed in South Korea. Under this updated policy, single soldiers will serve two-year tours, while those accompanied by families will remain for three years. This move is designed to improve stability for service members, strengthen unit cohesion, and enhance the operational readiness of the Army’s forces on the Korean Peninsula.

Strategic Importance of South Korea Deployment

South Korea remains one of the most critical forward operating locations for the U.S. military. With persistent tensions involving North Korea’s nuclear program and growing regional challenges posed by China and Russia, a consistent and reliable U.S. presence is paramount to maintaining peace and deterring aggression.

The extended tour lengths reflect a strategic decision to bolster this presence by reducing the disruption caused by frequent personnel rotations. Longer tours allow soldiers to become more acclimated to their environment, build stronger relationships with allied South Korean forces, and improve mission effectiveness.

Benefits for Soldiers and Families

Frequent permanent change-of-station moves have long been a challenge for military families, often causing hardships related to housing, schooling, and community integration. The Army’s decision to extend tours is intended to provide families greater continuity, reduce the stress associated with frequent moves, and improve overall quality of life.

For soldiers, longer tours foster stronger bonds within their units and local communities, enhancing morale and esprit de corps. Additionally, reducing the number of moves can lower operational costs related to personnel transportation and relocation.

Historical Context and Previous Policies

Historically, Army tours in South Korea have typically lasted one year for unaccompanied personnel and 12 to 15 months for those with families. This new policy roughly doubles the time soldiers will spend on the peninsula, reflecting a shift toward a more sustainable long-term presence.

This adjustment aligns with broader Department of Defense efforts to optimize overseas assignments globally, balancing military readiness with troop welfare and cost-efficiency.

Regional Security Implications

Maintaining a robust and stable U.S. force posture in South Korea is crucial given ongoing security challenges. North Korea continues to develop its nuclear and missile capabilities, conducting tests that threaten regional stability. Meanwhile, China’s increasing influence in the Indo-Pacific adds complexity to the strategic environment.

The extended deployments allow U.S. forces to maintain a vigilant and prepared stance, strengthening interoperability with South Korean allies and deterring potential adversaries.

Looking Ahead

The U.S. Army’s new policy on tour lengths demonstrates a commitment to both its personnel and its strategic objectives. By providing service members and their families with greater stability, the Army is investing in the long-term effectiveness of its forces stationed abroad.

This change supports the broader goal of preserving peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the Indo-Pacific region—an area of vital importance to U.S. interests and global stability.

Bradley Base Ceremony Marks Deployment and Return of Connecticut Guard Units

In a powerful show of unity and support, the Connecticut National Guard held a joint send-off and welcome home ceremony at the Army Aviation Support Facility at Bradley Air National Guard Base on July 25, 2025. The ceremony honored the service of Soldiers deploying to undisclosed overseas locations and celebrated the safe return of others recently stationed in Jordan.

Families, friends, and military leaders gathered beneath the high summer sun to witness a symbolic moment of transition—two units preparing for deployment and one proudly returning after fulfilling its mission abroad.

The deploying forces included members of the 192nd Engineer Battalion Headquarters and Headquarters Company, based in Stratford, and the 250th Engineer Company out of New London. These soldiers were preparing for yearlong overseas mobilizations in support of U.S. military operations. Their missions, while not publicly detailed, reflected the continued reliance on the Connecticut National Guard’s expertise in engineering, construction, and combat support abroad.

At the same ceremony, the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment, based in New Haven, was officially welcomed home. The unit had recently returned from Jordan, where it served as part of Operation Spartan Shield. During their deployment, soldiers of the 1-102nd provided critical security and stability support to U.S. interests and allied partners across the region.

Major General Francis Evon, Adjutant General of the Connecticut National Guard, addressed the gathering with solemn pride. “Today, we recognize the enduring commitment of our Guardsmen who leave home to protect and serve across the globe,” he said. “And just as importantly, we welcome back those who have stood the watch and returned safely.”

As the sound of the national anthem rose over the base and families held back tears, RED Friday took on deeper meaning—Remember Everyone Deployed wasn’t just a phrase, but a lived truth for those in attendance. The ceremony underscored the strength of the Guard community, and the readiness, resilience, and sacrifice of the citizen-soldiers who represent Connecticut around the world.

For the 192nd and 250th, the road ahead would test their training and unity. For the 1-102nd Infantry, the moment offered time to reflect, recover, and reconnect with loved ones. For all, it was a reminder of service that extends beyond state lines and national borders.

As Connecticut continues to answer the call of duty, RED Friday remains a moment to pause, reflect, and remember the courage of those who wear the uniform—whether they are returning home or preparing to go.