Every Friday, communities across the nation pause to honor the quiet force that safeguards them—the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces deployed far from home. This is the meaning of RED Friday: Remember Everyone Deployed. It is not a slogan; it is a commitment.
While life continues at home, our service members carry out vital missions abroad—often unseen, rarely in the headlines, but always essential. Families wait, watch, and worry, knowing their loved ones are performing duties critical to national and global security.
This week, the focus stretches across multiple regions:
Soldiers from the 1st Regiment, 102nd Infantry Battalion and the 643rd Military Police Company departed for Syria, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia on August 23, undertaking complex operations that include regional coordination and security support. Their mission is vital, and while they serve abroad, families remain steadfast at home, maintaining the strength that keeps these Soldiers focused and safe.
Units of the Georgia Army National Guard returned home from Kosovo after completing a peacekeeping deployment. These Soldiers spent months ensuring regional stability and interoperability with international forces. Their safe return allows families to reunite while also reminding us of the courage and resilience required during overseas service.
Meanwhile, the United States provides air and intelligence support for postwar security in Ukraine as allied forces coordinate stabilization operations following ongoing conflict. This mission highlights the extensive, often unseen roles that service members and their partners play in ensuring security and readiness abroad. Families of these personnel continue to live with the daily knowledge of their loved ones’ dedication and risks, embodying patience, pride, and sacrifice.
RED Friday exists for these Soldiers and for their families. We wear red not as routine, but in respect and recognition. It is a symbol of resolve and of a grateful nation that refuses to forget the sacrifices made in deserts, fields, and skies far from home.
To the service members deployed: know that your commitment is seen, your service remembered, and your courage honored in every town, in every workplace, and in every home that chooses to acknowledge it.
To the families waiting and supporting from home: your strength echoes as loudly as any mission completed, providing a foundation for those who stand ready across the globe.
Today, and every Friday, we stand together in red. Not because we are asked, but because we owe it.
U.S. To Provide Air and Intelligence Support for Postwar Ukraine Security
On August 25, 2025, the United States confirmed its commitment to support Ukraine’s security in the aftermath of ongoing conflict with Russia. The support focuses on air and intelligence assistance as part of European-led postwar security arrangements in Ukraine, with contributions contingent on allied troop deployments.
Details of U.S. Support
Air Support: Assistance in enforcing no-fly zones through radar and air monitoring systems.
Intelligence Sharing: Provision of surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to track potential threats.
Logistical Assistance: Support for deployment, sustainment, and coordination of allied forces operating in Ukraine.
The U.S. commitment does not include ground troops on Ukrainian soil but focuses on enhancing operational coordination and security effectiveness for allied forces already present in the region.
European Contributions and Challenges
European nations are expected to provide the majority of deployed forces under these postwar security arrangements. Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany have expressed readiness to contribute personnel, aircraft, and equipment to ensure the enforcement of post-conflict stability and protection of critical areas.
While these commitments strengthen security planning, challenges remain. Troop deployments are being coordinated carefully, and security arrangements continue to be refined to address territorial, logistical, and operational considerations.
Broader Implications
This development reinforces the international focus on maintaining stability in Ukraine and the surrounding region. The coordinated air and intelligence support ensures that allied forces can effectively monitor and respond to security threats, maintain a safe operational environment, and support the ongoing reconstruction and stabilization efforts.
Ongoing collaboration among allied nations highlights the importance of collective security planning and demonstrates the ability of combined forces to maintain readiness and protection in post-conflict scenarios.
Connecticut National Guard Deploys Over 600 Soldiers to the Middle East
MASHANTUCKET, Conn. — August 23, 2025. In a poignant ceremony held at the Rainmaker Expo Center at Foxwoods Resort Casino, over 600 Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment (Mountain) and the 643rd Military Police Company of the Connecticut National Guard were formally deployed to the Middle East. The ceremony, attended by family members, fellow service members, and state officials, marked the beginning of their mission in Syria, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.
Units and Mission Scope
The 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment (Mountain), part of the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), is tasked with providing base security, quick-reaction forces, and partner-force training teams once in theater. These roles are critical in maintaining stability and supporting U.S. and allied operations in the region.
The 643rd Military Police Company, headquartered in Westbrook, will provide law enforcement, force protection, and support to U.S. and allied forces. Their mission includes route security, traffic control, detainee operations, and host-nation coordination to ensure the safety and efficiency of military operations.
Ceremony Highlights
The send-off ceremony was a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of the deployed Soldiers. The Patriot Guard Riders organized the schedule and location at Foxwoods, ensuring a respectful and organized event. The ceremony featured the passing of unit colors, speeches from military leaders, and heartfelt farewells from family members. The atmosphere was one of pride, unity, and solemn commitment.
Deployment Details
The deployment is part of the U.S. military’s ongoing efforts to support and stabilize the Middle East region. The Soldiers will be integrated into various operations under U.S. Central Command, working alongside coalition forces to enhance security and support regional partners. Their roles will be vital in ensuring the success of these missions.
Community Support
The Connecticut National Guard has emphasized the importance of community support during this deployment. The DoD Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program has scheduled events for 1-102nd families, covering TRICARE, benefits, financial readiness, and youth programs, providing families with the resources they need while their loved ones are deployed.
Looking Ahead
Following final processing and theater-specific training, the units will proceed to staging bases before dispersing to their assigned sites. The Connecticut National Guard has committed to providing regular updates on the deployment, ensuring that families and the public remain informed about the Soldiers’ activities and well-being.
U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers Conclude Bomber Task Force Europe Deployment
On August 22, 2025, three U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bombers from the 345th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron returned to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, after completing a two-week deployment in support of Bomber Task Force Europe. This mission, conducted at Ørland Air Base, Norway, involved intensive training exercises with NATO allies, enhancing interoperability and readiness in high-threat environments.
Mission Overview
The deployment aimed to advance joint warfighting capabilities, strengthen cooperation, and improve how U.S. and Allied forces operate together. During the two-week period, the B-1B Lancers participated in various training events designed to simulate contested environments and refine tactics for operating in such conditions. A notable aspect of the mission was the integration of a total force team, comprising approximately 30% active-duty and 70% reserve Airmen from the 7th Bomb Wing and 489th Bomb Group.
Key Training Activities
Integration with NATO Allies: The B-1B Lancers conducted joint operations with the Royal Norwegian Air Force, rehearsing scenarios that involved gaining access to contested airspace, targeting threats, and maintaining coordination in simulated areas where freedom of movement is constrained.
Hot-Pit Refueling: To extend operational range and reduce turnaround times, the bombers performed hot-pit refueling at Lajes Field, Azores, on August 22. This rapid refueling technique allows aircraft to remain airborne longer, providing sustained support during missions.
Flyover in Latvia: On August 19, two B-1B Lancers participated in a flyover of the Monument of Freedom in Riga, Latvia, alongside NATO allies. This demonstration showcased the ability of NATO air forces to operate together seamlessly and highlighted the strength of the alliance.
Strategic Significance
The Bomber Task Force Europe deployment underscores the United States’ commitment to enhancing strategic deterrence and maintaining a credible and flexible force posture in Europe. The successful integration of U.S. bombers with allied aircraft highlights the strength of NATO partnerships and the collective defense capabilities of the alliance. This mission also reflects the U.S. Air Force’s ongoing efforts to maintain readiness and adaptability in the face of evolving global security challenges.
