Indiana National Guard ends mission along southern border

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Approximately 50 Hoosier Guardsmen are returning to Indiana after being mobilized to support the Texas National Guard in Operation Lone Star.

The Indiana National Guard’s support of Operation Lone Star began in April 2024 with 50 soldiers assisting U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and the Texas National Guard with border security.

The mission has resulted in a 94% decrease in border crossings compared to March 2024, the Indiana National Guard says.

Brig. Gen. Larry Muennich, the adjutant general, commended the soldiers for their work along the southern border.

“I look forward to welcoming them back home soon. This is an example of how the Indiana National Guard always stands ready to support our state and nation when called,” Muennich said in a release.

Gov. Mike Braun added, “We are proud to welcome home these brave Hoosier Guardsmen and thank them for their service during this successful mission.”

During the first rotation at the border, Indiana Guardsmen had over 11,000 interactions, including detecting 2,639 individual crossings and supporting 35 surrenders. The second rotation began in March 2025 and has had nearly 600 interactions to date.

Guardsmen are expected to return to Indiana within 60 days. During that time, they will out-process, return equipment, and demobilize.

“We are proud to welcome home these brave Hoosier Guardsmen and thank them for their service during this successful mission,” Gov. Mike B

The Indiana National Guard says it will turn its focus to other challenges related to illegal immigration, such as illicit drug use and crime.

The successful completion of Operation Lone Star by the Indiana National Guard highlights their readiness to support national security initiatives. The Guardsmen’s return marks the end of a significant mission in border security.