The 105th Engineer Battalion of the North Carolina National Guard Mobilizes

Raeford, N.C.—The Soldiers of headquarters and support company, 105th Engineer Battalion, held their mobilization ceremony on January 17th, 2025, in Raeford, North Carolina. The event marked the culmination of months of training and preparation. With nearly 140 Soldiers deploying to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, the event showcased the unwavering dedication of the North Carolina National Guard to its motto: "Always Ready, Always There."

RockFish Church was filled with hundreds of family members, friends, and supporters, along with fellow NCNG Soldiers, who came together to honor the battalion as they embark on a mission to support regional security and stability.

The ceremony included a symbolic NCNG tradition, the presentation of the NC flag to the unit commander. U.S. Army Lt. Col. Thomas Grabos, commander of the 105th Engineer Battalion, accepted the flag from U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, the adjutant general of North Carolina. The flag will accompany the unit throughout their deployment—a reminder of home and their mission.

“I am privileged to lead a unit that is experienced, determined, and well-prepared,” said Grabos, addressing the Soldiers and their loved ones.

Hunt praised the Soldiers’ commitment and readiness. “You have answered the call,” he said. “You are ready to deploy, and you are going to do well.”

The ceremony also highlighted individual accomplishments, with Maj. Gen. Hunt presenting a coin to Sgt. Mary Scott for her exceptional work as a supply technician. Her efforts significantly improved the battalion's equipment readiness.

“We are not just sending Soldiers; we are sending leaders, problem-solvers, and professionals who are ready to make a difference,” said Hunt.

Among the Soldiers preparing for their first deployment was Spc. Jordyn Peay. After five years of active duty, Peay joined the NCNG to balance her role as a mother with her passion for service.

“Preparing for this deployment has been bittersweet,” Peay said. “I’m nervous and excited, but the training we’ve done has made me confident in my abilities.”

Peay expressed gratitude for her family, who will care for her daughter while she is away. “Their love and support give me peace as I navigate this journey,” she said.

The 105th Engineer Battalion has spent the past year focused on intensive training to prepare for their mission. “Some of our best training was with an external evaluator, testing us with scenarios to prepare for command-and-control missions overseas,” said Huneycutt. “The Soldiers will maintain a U.S. military posture in Southwest Asia to deter and react to possible threats by strengthening defense relationships and building partner capacity.”

As the ceremony concluded with the playing of the Army Song, the Soldiers of the 105th Engineer Battalion stood tall, ready to represent North Carolina and the United States on their mission overseas.

For these Soldiers, today was more than a farewell—it was a testament to their preparation, their commitment to service, and the enduring support of the community they leave behind.