Approximately 120 Soldiers from the Michigan Army National Guard’s 1430th Engineer Company are set to deploy to the Southwest Border on October 17, 2025. This deployment is part of an ongoing federal mission to support U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations. The unit, based out of Traverse City, will provide mission-enhancing support under the direction of U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) and its operational arm, Joint Task Force – Southern Border (JTF-SB), which recently assumed oversight of the southern border mission from Joint Task Force North (JTF-North).
Mission Details and Support Role
The primary objective of the 1430th Engineer Company’s deployment is to bolster CBP’s border security efforts, thereby enabling federal agents to focus on their core law enforcement duties. While specific operational details are typically not disclosed, National Guard support missions historically involve tasks such as detection and monitoring, logistics, transportation, engineering, maintenance, and providing administrative assistance. The Soldiers are expected to serve for up to a year, marking their contribution to a sustained federal effort at the US border.
A Recurring Federal Mission for Michigan
This deployment represents the sixth time the Michigan National Guard has been called to the Southwest Border since 2020, underscoring a consistent need for such support across different presidential administrations. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has authorized these deployments, with previous rotations occurring under President Joe Biden’s tenure in 2021, 2022, and 2024, as well as during President Donald Trump’s term in 2020. Governor Whitmer has previously stated that the Michigan National Guard’s professionalism and willingness to serve have been demonstrated under both Democratic and Republican presidents, noting that Guard members have stepped up to protect and serve fellow Americans when called upon.
The 1430th Engineer Company itself has a history of overseas service, with its last deployment being to Afghanistan in 2010. This deployment to the southern border signifies a shift in operational focus for the unit.
National Guard’s Role in Border Security: A Historical Perspective
The deployment of National Guard personnel to assist with US border security is not a new phenomenon. Such support has been provided intermittently since the early 1990s, with significant mobilizations occurring under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. These operations, often conducted under Title 32 or Title 10 status, are designed to augment federal agencies like CBP, providing critical logistical, technical, and operational support without directly engaging in law enforcement activities. The involvement of the National Guard aims to free up federal law enforcement agents to concentrate on their primary duties, such as apprehension and interdiction.
Broader Context and US Border News
This deployment occurs amidst ongoing national discussions and political considerations surrounding border security and immigration policy. The use of National Guard forces for border support has been a frequent topic in US news and political discourse, with various state and federal leaders weighing in on the necessity and scope of such missions. The current operational framework involves the Department of Defense, through USNORTHCOM and JTF-SB, coordinating military capabilities to support the Department of Homeland Security’s mission to secure the border and combat transnational criminal organizations.
Support for Families and Unit Readiness
Recognizing the significant commitment required from service members and their families, the Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office will provide essential support and resources to the families of deployed Soldiers. This support is considered critical to maintaining the readiness and well-being of the service members during their deployment. The recurring nature of these deployments highlights the sustained role of the National Guard in addressing complex national security challenges at the US border.
