PHOENIX — Roughly 40 members of Arizona's National Guard were among those injured in an attack over the weekend in Jordan, near the Syria border. Of the guard, 34 have returned to duty and six are still under observation.
Servicemen were in the area in support of Operation Spartan Shield, helping U.S. and allied forces to provide law and order and personal security, the Arizona National Guard said in a statement.
The guard members from Arizona, part of the 158th Infantry also known as the Bushmasters, deployed in September 2023. 12News was there for the deployment ceremony.
MORE INFORMATION: 400 Arizona National Guard soldiers prepare for deployment ahead of potential government shutdown
Officials told 12News that three Arizona guard members were medically evacuated from the area to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, but are expected to recover. Their identities have not been released
Injuries ranged from cuts and bruises to traumatic brain injuries, according to the guard.
Three American troops were killed and dozens more were injured in the drone strike in the northeastern part of the Middle Eastern country, the Associated Press reported. The three service members killed were from Georgia and stationed out of Fort Moore.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs confirmed Arizona National Guard members were among the wounded during the strike.
"We are ready to offer support for the Guardsmen and their families, and will be prepared to take action as the situation develops," Hobbs said in the post.
"Facts of this attack are still being collected and it is unknown at this time how many Arizona service members were impacted," the Arizona National Guard said in a statement. The guard confirmed that servicemen were in the area at the time of the attack.
"In accordance with Department of Defense policy, the identities of the injured servicemembers will be withheld," officials said.
Hobbs said she is "actively monitoring the situation" and her administration is in contact with Arizona National Guard Adjutant Gen.Kerry Muehlenbeck for updates.
MORE INFORMATION: Biden says US 'shall respond' after drone strike by Iran-backed group kills 3 US troops in Jordan
On Sunday, President Joe Biden promised the United States would "respond" to the attack against U.S. troops. He promised to hold those responsible accountable.
According to U.S. intelligence officials, the drone was fired by Iran-backed militants from Syria.
Biden issued the following statement:
"Today, America’s heart is heavy. Last night, three U.S. service members were killed—and many wounded—during an unmanned aerial drone attack on our forces stationed in northeast Jordan near the Syria border. While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq.
Jill and I join the families and friends of our fallen—and Americans across the country—in grieving the loss of these warriors in this despicable and wholly unjust attack. These service members embodied the very best of our nation: Unwavering in their bravery. Unflinching in their duty. Unbending in their commitment to our country— risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. It is a fight we will not cease.
The three American service members we lost were patriots in the highest sense. And their ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten by our nation. Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honor and valor. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt — we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner our choosing."
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said he was outraged by the attacks.
"These brave Americans and their families are in my prayers, and the entire Department of Defense mourns their loss," said Austin.
Austin also promised a response from the United States and accountability for those who orchestrated the attack.
Community members who wish to send their wishes of support may do so through cards to:
Family Soldier Support: 1-158th Bushmasters
5636 E McDowell Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85008
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