Texas Guard’s 36th Infantry Division Prepares for Middle East Deployment

Why It Matters

The deployment showcases the National Guard’s ability to project trained forces abroad, bolstering U.S. strategic objectives and alliance confidence in a volatile region.

Key Takeaways

• 36th Infantry Division deploying to Middle East for Spartan Shield
• Farewell ceremony highlighted families' crucial support role
• Deployment continues division’s century‑long combat legacy
• Task Force Spartan reinforces U.S. Central Command objectives
• Readiness training and validation scheduled before March colors ceremony

Pulse Analysis

Operation Spartan Shield remains a cornerstone of U.S. strategy to maintain stability across the Middle East, and the 36th Infantry Division’s upcoming deployment underscores the growing reliance on National Guard units for forward‑postured missions. By integrating seasoned infantry, intelligence, and logistical elements, the division enhances Task Force Spartan’s capacity to deter aggression, reassure partners, and respond swiftly to emerging threats. This blend of state‑level readiness and federal operational demand reflects a broader trend of leveraging reserve components to sustain a persistent presence without overtaxing active‑duty forces.

The 36th Infantry Division, known as the "Tornado," carries a storied record that stretches from World War I trench warfare to modern counter‑terrorism operations. Its amphibious landing at Salerno in World War II cemented its reputation for rapid, decisive action, while Cold‑War deployments and peacekeeping in the Balkans demonstrated adaptability across conflict spectrums. Recent mobilizations for Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and New Dawn have refined its joint‑force integration, positioning the division to execute complex missions in the Central Command theater with seasoned expertise and a deep institutional memory.

For regional allies, the division’s arrival signals a reaffirmed U.S. commitment to collective security and a tangible boost to deterrence postures. The presence of a well‑trained National Guard unit not only augments conventional forces but also strengthens civil‑military partnerships through community engagement and joint training exercises. As the 36th completes its final validation and proceeds to the March colors ceremony, its deployment will likely influence future force‑mix decisions, highlighting the strategic value of reserve components in sustaining long‑term operational readiness across volatile theaters.

Texas Guard’s 36th Infantry Division prepares for Middle East deployment

By 1st Lt. Zalkari Thornton · February 4, 2026

AUSTIN, Texas — Soldiers assigned to the 36th Infantry Division gathered with family members, friends and community leaders Jan. 31 at Camp Mabry for a farewell ceremony as they prepare to deploy to the Middle East in support of Operation Spartan Shield.

The ceremony marked a key milestone in the division’s deployment process, recognizing the dedication of service members and the sacrifices their families made. Following the event, the division will continue readiness training and final mission validation before deploying.

Maj. Gen. John “Brad” Bowlin, commander of the 36th Infantry Division, addressed service members and families during the ceremony, emphasizing readiness, leadership and the critical role families play throughout the deployment cycle.

“As we prepare to deploy, we do so grounded in a legacy that began in 1917 and continues today,” Bowlin said. “This moment reflects months of preparation and the unwavering commitment of our service members and their families as we move forward ready, disciplined and focused on the mission ahead.”

Beyond marking a deployment milestone, the ceremony underscored the people behind the formation — the Soldiers preparing to deploy and the families who support them.

“This deployment gives me the opportunity to contribute in a way that directly supports national defense initiatives and strengthens partnerships with host nations,” said Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Caldwell, a senior intelligence analyst with the division. “Working across staff sections to support commanders and the mission is something I take pride in, especially as a first‑generation service member.”

Family members in attendance reflected on the significance of the moment and the support required throughout the deployment.

“This deployment brings a mix of emotions, but I know it will be a meaningful season of growth for both of us,” said Katrina Bondoc, wife of 2nd Lt. James Bondoc. “It gives him the opportunity to grow, serve his country and step into the leader he is becoming.”

The 36th Infantry Division will deploy as part of Task Force Spartan, supporting U.S. Army Central’s enduring mission to strengthen regional security, reassure allies and partners, and maintain a ready and forward‑postured force in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

The deployment continues the division’s long history of overseas service, following its most recent mobilization in 2020 in support of Operation Spartan Shield.

Created in 1917, the division first saw combat during World War I. During World II, its amphibious assault at Salerno, Italy, made it the first American division to land on the European continent. Throughout the Cold War, the division maintained a continuous overseas presence, followed by peacekeeping missions in the Balkans and Kosovo and multiple deployments in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, New Dawn and Spartan Shield.

Operation Spartan Shield promotes stability across the region and reinforces the United States’ enduring commitment to its allies and partners in the Middle East. The deployment highlights the National Guard’s ability to provide trained and ready forces in support of global operational requirements.

An official casing‑of‑the‑colors ceremony is scheduled for March at Fort Hood following completion of training and readiness validation.

“We are Texans, we are Guardsmen, and we are ready,” Bowlin said. “We go as a team, we serve as a team, and we will all come home as a team.”