The Wisconsin National Guard (WNG) is currently operating under a high tempo of both federal and state active duty missions, with significant overseas deployments marking the close of 2025. As of today, December 15, 2025, hundreds of Wisconsin soldiers are mobilized, with a major year-long deployment to the Middle East having just begun, following a large send-off ceremony. The dual mission of the WNG—serving the state and the nation—remains critical as units like the 2-127th Infantry Regiment execute complex training and mobilization schedules.
This comprehensive report details the most recent information on WNG deployments, unit movements, and the key leadership overseeing these critical operations. From major overseas mobilizations to crucial state active duty missions, the 'Always Ready, Always There' ethos of the Wisconsin Guard is being tested by a demanding operational tempo across the globe and at home.
The Leadership Profile: Major General Matthew J. Strub, Wisconsin's Adjutant General
The Wisconsin National Guard is commanded by the state's highest military officer, the Adjutant General, who is responsible for both the Wisconsin Army National Guard and the Wisconsin Air National Guard. The current leader overseeing all federal and state activations is Major General Matthew J. Strub.
- Current Role: Major General Matthew J. Strub serves as the Adjutant General of Wisconsin.
- Responsibilities: He commands the entire Wisconsin National Guard and holds responsibility for the state's Emergency Management operations.
- Recent Transition: Maj. Gen. Strub took command following the tenure of Brigadier General David W. May, who served as the interim Adjutant General.
- Focus: His leadership is focused on maintaining the readiness of the WNG to respond to both federal mobilization orders and domestic emergencies, ensuring the Guard is prepared for a wide array of missions from combat operations to disaster relief.
This continuity of command is vital as the WNG manages multiple simultaneous missions, ensuring a smooth transition for deploying forces and maintaining operational readiness for those remaining on state active duty.
Major Federal Deployments: Middle East Mobilization and Overseas Missions (2025-2026)
The most significant and recent development is the year-long mobilization of Wisconsin Army National Guard soldiers for an overseas mission. This deployment underscores the WNG's commitment to supporting national defense strategy.
The Middle East Deployment: A Year-Long Commitment
A substantial number of Wisconsin soldiers have begun a year-long mobilization to the Middle East.
- Activation Date: The mobilization officially began on December 2, 2025.
- Scope: This is a year-long commitment, demonstrating the long-term operational needs in the region.
- Numbers: In a related send-off, approximately 600 soldiers were mobilized to deploy overseas, highlighting the scale of the commitment.
The 2-127th Infantry Regiment Deployment
One of the key units involved in the 2025 deployment cycle is the 2nd Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment (2-127th IN). This unit is part of the historic 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), known as the "Red Arrow."
- Unit Departure: Soldiers from the 2-127th Infantry Regiment departed for their overseas deployment on May 31, 2025, after a mobilization send-off ceremony in Oshkosh.
- Pre-Deployment Training: The deploying soldiers completed mobilization training at Fort Bliss, Texas, before proceeding overseas. This critical phase ensures all personnel and equipment are mission-ready for the operational theater.
- Mission Type: The 2-127th has been noted for training for a "guardian angel mission," a term often associated with force protection, security, and escort duties for other units or assets.
- Return Timeline: These soldiers are projected to return to Wisconsin in the fall of 2026, marking a full year of active duty.
State Active Duty and Domestic Missions in 2025
While federal deployments garner significant attention, the Wisconsin National Guard’s role in its home state remains paramount. The Guard is often activated for State Active Duty (SAD) missions, which have become increasingly frequent and diverse.
The Dual Mission: State and Nation
The National Guard operates under a unique dual mission structure. When not federally deployed, units are under the command of the Governor for state-level emergencies and support.
- Emergency Response Readiness: The WNG has brought on additional planners, logisticians, and command elements to manage and execute any future state missions, demonstrating a proactive stance on emergency preparedness.
- Historical Context: The WNG has a history of responding to a wide range of state-level events, including the most recent activation that began in March 2020 for the COVID-19 pandemic response.
Evolving Domestic Deployments and Federal Support
The year 2025 has also seen a heightened discussion and some instances of federal activation of National Guard troops for domestic issues. This includes support for federal agencies and operations within U.S. borders.
- Federal Law Enforcement Support: There have been reports and discussions regarding the deployment of federal forces, including National Guard troops, in select U.S. cities, often tied to specific law enforcement or border security operations.
- Immigration Enforcement Link: In Wisconsin, there has been a noted increase in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity that is sometimes linked to National Guard deployment support, with an increase in activity cited from January to July 2025. This highlights the complex and sometimes politically charged nature of the Guard’s domestic support role.
The WNG’s participation in these domestic missions ensures that the state and federal government have the logistical and operational support needed to manage complex situations that exceed the capacity of civilian agencies.
Historical Context: The Legacy of the 32nd 'Red Arrow' IBCT
Many of the soldiers deploying today are part of units with a deep and distinguished history, which provides a strong sense of tradition and excellence. The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which the 2-127th IN belongs to, is one such unit.
- Largest Deployment Since WWII: The 32nd IBCT holds the distinction of having executed the largest deployment for the Wisconsin National Guard since World War II when it mobilized for service in the Iraq War.
- Global War on Terrorism (GWOT): Since September 11, 2001, a significant percentage of Wisconsin National Guard members have served on active duty, with the 32nd Brigade being a key participant in the GWOT.
- Training Excellence: Units like the 2-127th Infantry Regiment regularly conduct rigorous training, such as urban operations and cold-weather exercises at locations like Volk Field, Wisconsin, ensuring they are prepared for any environment before heading to places like Fort Bliss for final mobilization.
The current 2025 deployments continue this legacy, with hundreds of Wisconsin families managing the challenges of a loved one's year-long absence, all while the remaining Guard forces stand ready to protect the state. The operational tempo remains high, demanding a high level of sacrifice, professionalism, and readiness from every soldier and airman in the Wisconsin National Guard.
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