Maine Army National Guard soldiers are being praised for their "exceptional" work abroad, returning home on Valentine's Day from a successful mission to Saudi Arabia.
The Skowhegan and Lewiston-based 136th Engineering Vertical Construction Company of Maine was deployed in the fall of 2025, returning to Bangor on Feb. 14 to a host of greetings and salutations.
"I am immensely proud of the 136th’s exceptional performance and unwavering dedication throughout the entire deployment and redeployment,” Lt. Col. Donald LaChapelle, Battalion commander, 133rd Engineer Battalion, said in a statement to Military.com. “The company executed their mission to the highest standards with unmatched professionalism, and the battalion is grateful everyone has returned home safely.”
In all, 114 soldiers of the Maine Army National Guard, 136th Engineer Vertical Construction Company, 133rd Engineer Battalion, returned home following the five-month deployment. While overseas, they worked with the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of operations in support of Operation Spartan Shield to improve infrastructure and security in the region.
For their work, the battalion company received recognition from both the Army and Air Force, as well as from their comrades and families.
It’s great to see the family members coming out welcoming their soldiers coming back home, it’s very heartwarming. I can remember coming home to a similar event and just having your family members, your loved ones, out there is just a special moment.
National Guard figures released to Military.com show the soldiers executed 67 construction projects while overseas, with a total approximate cost value of $775,000. Additionally, the company played a vital role by supporting Air Force operations, maintaining more than $1.2 million in infrastructure, and ensuring the continued functionality and readiness of key facilities.
“We proudly welcome home the soldiers of the 136th Engineer Vertical Construction Company following their deployment to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Spartan Shield,” said Maine Gov. Janet Mills in a statement provided to Military.com.
Their service strengthened our alliances, advanced the security and stability of our nation, and reflected the very best of Maine people.
The battalion company returning home on a holiday weekend that included Valentine’s Day and was followed by President’s Day was noted by the governor.
“Returning on Valentine’s Day makes this homecoming especially meaningful as they reunite with the families and loved ones who supported them every step of the way,” she said. “To Maine’s returning service members — on behalf of a grateful state — welcome home.”
This was the first deployment of an engineering unit from the U.S. since 2013. The last time a Maine unit was deployed dates back even further, to 2004.
