Roughly a month after deploying for a second time to the southern border, Gov. Mike Braun is bringing 50 Indiana National Guardsmen back home to the Hoosier State and crediting President Donald Trump for their early return. 

The March deployment was set to last for 12 months and cost the state an estimated $9 million. Troops were first sent to Texas to support Gov. Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star last year under former Gov. Eric Holcomb. 

“We are proud to welcome home these brave Hoosier Guardsmen and thank them for their service during this successful mission,” said Braun in a statement. “Under the leadership of President Trump, well-managed border security is a priority and that enables these Guardsmen to return home.”

Recent data documents a 94% drop in border crossings compared to one year ago. 

During the first border rotation, Hoosiers detected 2,639 individual crossings, supported 35 surrenders and “impacted” 8,837 turn backs, according to the guard. The 50 guardsmen sent last month had 559 interactions, a news release said. 

“I commend the soldiers on this mission, and for the work they’ve done to secure our border,” said Brig. Gen. Larry Muennich, the adjutant general. “I look forward to welcoming them back home soon. This is an example of how the Indiana National Guard always stands ready to support our state and nation when called.”

The soldiers will return to the state within 60 days.

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