Mass. Army National Guard to deploy to Poland to 'make sure Russia goes no further'
WORCESTER — Russia’s war with Ukraine was an undercurrent as dozens of National Guard troops stood at attention Sunday morning inside Alden Hall at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
The troops were ready to be officially deployed to Poland. While standing ramrod tall and gazing straight ahead in their military fatigues as family and friends looked on, their mission was made clear.
"We’re going to make sure Russia goes no further,” said Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, adjutant general of the Massachusetts National Guard, in his remarks to those in attendance that included Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.
Keefe’s remark was tied directly to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago in February 2022. Russia's military continues to pound Ukraine as ceasefire talks with the Trump administration experience fits and starts.
Within a month, the roughly 70 members in the 182nd Medical Company of the Massachusetts Army National Guard will head to Poland as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve that dates back to 2014 when Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea.
Officials didn't release where the 182nd will be stationed when it lands in Poland, but the company's leader, Maj. James Hogan, said the men and women will serve in an urgent care hospital.
The 182nd Medical Company is one of the oldest medical units in the U.S. Army dating back 1888 when it was the Ambulance Corps of the 2nd Brigade of the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia.
Worcester became the unit's home in 2008 when it was designated the 182 Medical Company. It's comprised of a range of medical specialists including medics, doctors, nurses, dentists and x-ray technicians, according Hogan.
Poland is a notable destination for the 182nd because the country borders western Ukraine. Poland and other NATO members worry if Russia seizes Ukraine, then it could set it sights on additional territorial expansion.
It’s a tense time in the region as a top advisor to Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said, according to reports, a red line would be crossed if Russia's expanded borders into Ukraine are recognized as part of a negotiated peace process.
Keefe noted in his speech that China and Russia are conducting joint military exercises and both partner with Iran. “This threatens our way of life and our freedoms,” said Keefe.
Separation from family an emotional part of deployment
Moments before he dismissed his troops, Hogan referred to the 182nd as "witch doctors," which is the established nickname because of the company's medical focus. Then it was time for the dismissed to get hugs and kisses from family and friends, while some in the 182nd held their small children in their arms.
Separation from family is an emotional part of deployment, and while officials reminded the audience that support services are in place, the reality of loved ones being away for extended durations is a tough pill to swallow.
That holds true for the Keifer family from Danvers. Sgt. Amy Keifer said it will be sad to be away from home, but “its a good opportunity to support a good mission.”
Keifer’s mother, Jennifer, admitted she cried several times during Sunday's ceremony.
“I’m praying for her and her unit,” said Jennifer Keifer. "I'll be paying attention to the United States relationship with its allies and Russia's intervention in the region."
“An unfortunate circumstance, for sure,” is how 182nd member Joseph Lords, 29, of North Andover, described the war in Ukraine. He also noted, “It’s a great opportunity to do our job."
When asked if the 182nd will get enough support as the Trump administration's policies include ending transgender military service, cutting diversity, equity and inclusion programs, and eliminating thousands of jobs at the Veterans Administration, Lords said he’ll get "a lot of support” from his fellow 182nd troops.
"Excited" is how Ruth Arroyo, 22, described her feelings about going to Poland as part of the 182nd. Arroyo works as a medical technician in the emergency department at Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington.
Her parents, Luis and Rosa Arroyo, said they had mixed emotions because while they're happy their daughter is doing what she wants, they'll miss her when she's overseas.
"I feel OK," said Luis Arroyo, noting his daughter will only be a phone call away when she's in Poland.
Hogan, the 182nd commander, instilled confidence in his troops, telling them they're ready for the mission.
Driscoll also injected a sense of confidence building: "You represent the state more than anyone else can. Come home safe."
Contact Henry Schwan at henry.schwan@telegram.com. Follow him on X: @henrytelegram.