Kansas ‘Demon Brigade’ returns home after deployment in Europe

FORT RILEY ( KSNT ) – A group of soldiers from Fort Riley are home again after a nine-month deployment in Europe.

The 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley announced in a press release Monday, July 15 its Demon Brigade, sent to Europe in support of the joint contingency operation Atlantic Resolve, marked their return to the Sunflower State with a ceremony on the morning of July 14. This signifies the end of the group’s mission overseas and their return to operations at Fort Riley.

“Our unit is home after supporting our Allies and partners throughout Europe during a crucial time,” said Col. Chad Corrigan, the 1st Combat Aviation Brigade commander. “Your work throughout these last 9 months has made a lasting impact and you should be proud of what you have accomplished.”

Replacing the Demon Brigade is the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, which was received in Powidz, Poland on July 10. More than 1,800 soldiers were deployed in locations throughout Europe during the deployment that started in Oct. 2023.

“The return of the Demon Brigade colors marks the end of the brigade’s mission in Europe supporting our NATO Allies and partners,” said Maj. Gen. Monté Rone, commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley. “Dispersed across six countries, Demon Brigade Soldiers built relationships, participated in NATO exercises, and they furthered the rich history and legacy of this great division by executing all missions in a very controlled, deliberate and safe manner from start to finish.”

While in Europe, the Demon Brigade provided aviation support and conducted training exercises, according to the 1st Infantry Division. Soldiers worked alongside NATO allies during these exercises and engaged with European communities to help build ties between the U.S. and friendly nations abroad.

“I am grateful for the unwavering support provided by our military families, friends and good neighbors across the Flint Hills region; and I am immensely proud of this formation for its contributions to mission success,” Rone said.

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