State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) joined National Guard soldiers in the Blackhawk Battalion, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment, at a mobilization ceremony in Effingham on February 8 as they prepare to deploy for Operation Spartan Shield.

The battalion, headquartered in Marion, includes units based in Marion, West Frankfort, Litchfield, Mt. Vernon, and Effingham. In total, approximately 550 guardsmen and women are set to deploy, with 130 soldiers and their families attending the Effingham ceremony.

During the event, Halbrook expressed his gratitude for the soldiers’ service and sacrifice.

“Operation Spartan Shield is taking you to one of the most violent places in the world,” Halbrook said. “It takes a tremendous amount of courage to willingly deploy and takes character and patriotism. America is worth fighting for and defending. You are living proof of that profound truth.”

The Blackhawk Battalion will be stationed in Jordan and spread across 17 locations in seven countries under U.S. Central Command. Their mission will focus on securing and protecting U.S. and allied forces, as well as conducting training operations.

Additional mobilization ceremonies have been held throughout southern Illinois to recognize the soldiers ahead of their deployment.

For more information, contact Rep. Halbrook’s office at (217) 342-0220 or visit RepHalbrook.com.