NATICK – On Thursday, June 4, 240 soldiers from the Massachusetts National Guard’s 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade were welcomed home in Natick following a 10-month deployment to the Horn of Africa in support of Combined Joint Task Force–Horn of Africa. The emotional homecoming brought together families, children, friends, and community members who lined the area with handmade signs, American flags and heartfelt cheers as the soldiers returned home. For many families, the day marked the end of months of waiting, sacrifice and separation.
During the deployment, soldiers served as part of a joint headquarters, working alongside U.S. military services, coalition partners, and host nation forces to promote regional stability, strengthen security partnerships and support U.S. interests throughout East Africa.
Military Friends Foundation was honored to support the soldiers and their families throughout the deployment and during the welcome home celebration. “Support from Military Friends Foundation throughout the mission and during the homecoming reminded our soldiers and their families that they are never alone,” said CPT Zakary A. Keathley, Commander, 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. “That commitment strengthens readiness, resilience, and the bond that sustains our military community before, during and after deployment.”
Since the September 11th terrorist attacks, Military Friends Foundation has been dedicated to supporting Massachusetts military families and families of the fallen. The organization provides financial assistance, community support and programs that help ensure service members, veterans and their families know they are supported by neighbors across the Commonwealth.
“Homecomings like this are a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made not only by our service members, but by the families who stand beside them,” said Sarah Sweeney, Executive Director of Military Friends Foundation. “It was an honor for Military Friends Foundation to play a small role in supporting these soldiers and their loved ones throughout the deployment and to be there as families were reunited. These are the moments that show why our mission matters.” Military Friends Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to the soldiers of the 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and their families for their service, sacrifice, and commitment.