All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Gov. Justice welcomes home soldiers from nine-month overseas deployment

Gov Jim Justice
Gov Jim Justice

CHARLESTON, WV – Gov. Jim Justice greeted dozens of West Virginia National Guard soldiers today, returning home after a nine-month deployment to the Middle East.

The Governor met with the soldiers, along with hundreds of their family members, friends, and loved ones during a welcoming home ceremony at McLaughin Air National Guard Base in Charleston.

“On behalf of all West Virginians, Cathy and I want to welcome home all the brave men and women who have been overseas defending freedom,” Gov. Justice said. “We are so happy for their safe return and so appreciative of the sacrifices they and their families have made for all of us here at home.”

More than 140 soldiers of the West Virginia Army National Guard’s 821st Horizontal Construction Company, part of the 1092nd Engineer Battalion, will return home today. During their deployment, these soldiers supported operations Inherent Resolve, Spartan Shield, and Freedom Sentinel in the Middle East.

Over the course of their deployment, the soldiers served a combined total of more than 28,000-man hours, completing various missions and assignments throughout Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Saudi Arabia, and received high accolades for their efforts continually exemplifying the motto, “Mountaineer Pride Worldwide.”

“Deployments are never easy, either on those serving or those left behind on the home front,” WVNG Adjutant General Maj. Gen. James Hoyer said. “The families and soldiers of the 821st can rest easy tonight now that they are back home on West Virginia soil. They can be proud knowing they completed their mission with honor and professionalism, and that their service and sacrifices help continue to build the noble legacy of the National Guard.”

The 821st last deployed overseas in 2008.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Upshur County Relay for Life aims to raise $35,000 for cancer research on July 19

The Upshur County Relay for Life will host its annual event July 19 at Jawbone Park, aiming to raise $35,000 for cancer research while celebrating survivors and bringing the community together through activities and remembrance ceremonies.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital team members engage in statewide healthcare leadership program

Two WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital employees were honored by the West Virginia Hospital Association Leadership Academy, with Paula Cutright graduating and Matthew Scott selected for future participation in the statewide healthcare leadership program.

Post 7 drops outings to Doddridge and Morgantown

Buckhannon Post 7 suffered consecutive road defeats, falling 10-2 to Doddridge County and 11-0 to Morgantown Post 2, dropping their season record to 2-15.

Summer basketball league begins week two

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League entered its second week with standout performances from top scorers including Cory Harper, Dalton Hamrick, Cordell Nicola, and Vinny Snuffer leading their teams across multiple games.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025.

BCT to light up the stage with Mamma Mia starting this weekend

Buckhannon Community Theatre will present the musical Mamma Mia! at the Colonial Arts Center starting July 12, featuring ABBA hits, lively performances, and a cast assembled from across the region.

St. Joseph’s Hospital supports healthy habits with mile-long midday walks

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has launched a noon walk initiative, inviting staff and community members to join daily one-mile walks to promote physical activity and improve health outcomes.

John Paul Ingram

John Paul Ingram, 83, a beloved Buckhannon resident, ordained minister, and avid outdoorsman who shared his faith and kindness with many, died July 6, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Wesleyan finishes seventh in MEC Commissioners Cup standings

West Virginia Wesleyan finished seventh in the 2024-25 Mountain East Conference Commissioner’s Cup standings, while the University of Charleston captured its eighth consecutive and tenth overall title for all-around athletic excellence.