Soldiers from the North Carolina National Guard’s 29th Division Sustainment Brigade have undergone significant transformations in recent years, including a reorganization under a new division that incorporates both North Carolina and Virginia National Guard units. They have also trained to confront emerging battlefield threats and opened a new readiness center in McLeansville, North Carolina. However, their fundamental mission remains unchanged: to be prepared to defend the homeland at a moment’s notice.
U.S. Army Col. Kimberly S. Graham, commanding officer of the 29th DSB, emphasized the unit’s readiness, stating, “They are trained, ready, professional, there’s not a mission they can’t accomplish.” Earlier this year, the McLeansville units, including the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 29th Division Sustainment Brigade and the 196th Brigade Signal Company, received mobilization orders for Operation Spartan Shield, a mission under U.S. Central Command in the Middle East.
Training and Preparation
The soldiers have engaged in rigorous training, building on skills honed through years of drills to prepare for their deployment. “The training was great and we incorporated a lot of new Soldiers and we have some awesome talent, we will be successful,” noted U.S. Army First Sgt. Joshua Cummings, who is assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company.
With all pre-deployment training successfully completed, the unit gathered for a deployment ceremony at First Horizon Coliseum Complex in Greensboro, North Carolina, on September 30, 2026. Nearly 300 Soldiers participated in this event, marking a significant moment in their service.
Ceremony Highlights
During the ceremony, the First Sergeant’s command of “fall in” reverberated through the venue as Soldiers, including truck drivers, teachers, and college students from various hometowns, responded to their names. A poignant moment occurred when the unit honored U.S. Army Capt. Lativia McJunkins, the 29th DSB Medical Operations Officer, who received the Capt. John R. Teal Award for her contributions to the Army Medical Department. Her mother, Mary Crowder, expressed pride in her daughter’s achievements.
Following a rehearsal, Soldiers joined their families and friends in the bleachers, where emotions ran high. Attendees waved flags and shared anxious glances as they spotted their loved ones among the ranks.
Support for Soldiers and Families
Throughout the auditorium, representatives from various organizations, including the North Carolina National Guard’s Education Services Office and Family Programs, provided support for Soldiers and their families. Visitors explored tables filled with care packages, stuffed animals, and essential information tailored to the challenges of deployment. “We are their advocate,” said Christine Quante, executive director of the North Carolina National Guard Association.
As the ceremony commenced, an Army band played, and the master of ceremonies urged the audience to stand as the Soldiers marched in to applause from over a thousand attendees. Amanda Huntley, wife of 1st Lt. Anthony Koro, an intelligence officer with the 29th DSB, reflected on the occasion, stating, “We are here to respect the country, the Soldiers’ and his dad’s sacrifice keeping us safe.” The Soldiers will soon embark on their mission, providing vital sustainment and communication support throughout Central Command.
Source: North Carolina National Guard via DVIDS. Photo: North Carolina National Guard via DVIDS.
