FORT CARSON, Colo. - The 4th Infantry Division began its European deployment in February of 2023. Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion for the division hit the ground running in support of Operation Assure, Deter, and Reinforce where they worked with NATO allies and partners. For many, this would be their first deployment.
One of those Soldiers is Capt. Matthew Ziegeler, an aviation officer assigned to Headquarters Support Company, HHBN. He was still attending the aviation captain’s career course when he found out he would deploy in less than a month upon reporting to Fort Carson. The U.S. Military Academy graduate from Holland, Michigan, did not know what to expect on what would be his first deployment.
“I quickly became excited for the opportunity,” said Ziegeler. “The thought of getting to see a new part of the world, work with our NATO allies, and build close knit relationships with the 4ID team in a deployed environment was what I looked forward to most.”
There were many challenges that Ziegeler faced during his tour in Europe. It was difficult to be the “new guy” arriving at a new unit and immediately deploy. He expected to build new relationships and foster credibility with his new unit.
“It comes down to doing the small things well. Once people see you can be trusted, they continue to put value in what you do,” said Ziegeler. “Briefing senior officers at routine meetings allows you to establish credibility, then more is asked of you.”
He gained a new military family, but leaving his family and his beloved dog, Piper, behind was difficult to do. He thanks his father for being able to calm the family down from the fear of deployment. Although the distance was significant, his family made sure to send him letters, care packages, and stayed in touch with video calls.
“My family was a bit nervous at first; just unsure about the unknown or what I was going to be doing in Eastern Europe,” said Ziegeler. “My dad helped the rest of my family understand the importance and calm their nerves, they were incredibly supportive.”
Excitement on returning to a new home was all Ziegeler could think of while traveling from Poland. Saying farewell to what was a temporary home for him was bitter sweet as he would miss the camaraderie between the NATO allies and partners. He would also miss the great bakeries and fun times he had at the town square where he’d have his morning coffee.
“Sometimes we get lucky in the Army and get to do awesome things with great people,” said Ziegeler. “ Those are the moments that make it worth it.”
Along with settling in Colorado, he looks forward to bringing Piper to her new home and starting new adventures exploring all that Colorado has to offer. He is enthusiastic about finishing up his time at HHBN and reporting to the Combat Aviation Brigade to be an assault company commander.
“I was very excited to get settled in Colorado as I didn't have much time at all here before deploying,” said Ziegeler. “Also, very excited to get back to my dog, Piper.”
The Ivy Division completed its European rotation successfully. Training with one another not only builds strong relationships but it prepares Soldiers to fight and win alongside our allies and NATO partners. The mission was handed off to the 3rd Infantry Division and they will continue to keep Europe secure.
“We did a wonderful job of taking care of our Soldiers, ensuring that we were able to be safe,” said Maj. Gen. David S. Doyle, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division. “We were still doing difficult and dangerous things out there, but we brought everyone home and that is a great feeling.”
The welcome home ceremony and uncasing of the colors took place in the Special Event Center, Sept. 13, 2023, marking the official return of the Ivy Division headquarters. The sound of families, friends, and loved ones cheering, clapping, and waving banners filled the room as the Soldiers entered the building. Although Ziegeler's family was unable to meet him in the crowd, he was felt welcome.
“I didn't have anyone there but one of my NCOs made sure I was taken care of," said Ziegeler. “There was an older lady there going around giving hugs to every single person coming home. Someone mentioned she hasn't missed a redeployment ceremony at Fort Carson for like 20 years. Not sure who she was, but it was awesome.”
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