South Dakota National Guard Celebrates Homecoming of 665th Support Maintenance Company
The state of South Dakota recently witnessed a heartwarming event as the South Dakota National Guard welcomed home over 120 soldiers from the 665th Support Maintenance Company (SMC). This noteworthy occasion marked the end of a 308-day deployment, with families and the broader community joining together to celebrate and honor the service and commitment of their soldiers.
The homecoming ceremony was held on September 19 at the Mitchell High School gymnasium, an occasion filled with both emotion and pride. Community members, family, and friends packed the venue, eagerly awaiting the return of their local heroes. Earlier that day, South Dakota’s Gov. Larry Rhoden and Maj. Gen. Mark Morrell, adjutant general of the South Dakota National Guard, were present to personally greet the returning soldiers at Sioux Falls.
The 665th SMC had been deployed to Germany since November 2025, contributing to the European Assure, Deter and Reinforce mission. During their deployment, these soldiers supported 30 different units spread across three battalions. They successfully moved over 600 vehicles and completed in excess of 3,800 work orders—a significant achievement, surpassing the efforts of previous rotations. Their diligence and skill not only supported military operations but also epitomized the values and spirit of the South Dakota community.
Capt. Kasey Lanning, the company’s commander, expressed gratitude to the families and support networks that sustained the soldiers throughout their mission. “Our Soldiers may wear the uniform, but deployments are never accomplished by the Soldier alone,” she emphasized, acknowledging the critical role played by loved ones at home. Contact Capt. Kasey Lanning
The community’s unwavering support was evident, with the Mitchell-area VFW hosting a pancake feed before the soldiers’ departure and continually sending care packages. Capt. Lanning highlighted how these small gestures held immense meaning for the soldiers stationed thousands of miles away, keeping them connected to their home turf.
Gov. Larry Rhoden
Maj. Gen. Mark Morrell reflected on the company’s commitment to leave a positive mark during their deployment, which included the improvement of aging equipment and living facilities. He mentioned, “They always leave it better than they found it,” a commendable trait that reflects the high standards of South Dakota’s soldiers.
Maj. Gen. Mark Morrell
The return of these soldiers was a moment of joy for state officials as well. U.S. Senators Mike Rounds, John Thune, and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson attended the ceremony, offering their heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifices made by both the soldiers and their families. They emphasized that the dedication displayed by the 665th SMC plays a critical role in ensuring national security.
Capt. Kasey Lanning
The deactivation ceremony officially marked the transition of the 665th SMC from active-duty support back to civilian life, allowing these soldiers to rejoin their families and communities. It is a process that Maj. Gen. Morrell poignantly described as, “Coming home happens today. But becoming a family again under one roof, that will take time.” His words highlight the ongoing journey of returning to everyday life after deployment.
This outstanding contribution by the 665th Support Maintenance Company is part of a broader narrative that underscores the values cherished by South Dakotans—duty, honor, and community. The National Guard’s efforts during this deployment reflect the spirit and work ethic of the people of South Dakota, from the plains of the Missouri River to the communities that proudly support these soldiers.
As the soldiers of the 665th SMC reintegrate into their communities, South Dakota stands proud, honoring their courage and welcoming their return. With this pivotal homecoming, the state celebrates not only their safe return but also the resilience and strength that define its people.