North Carolina National Guard Soldiers Celebrate Reenlistment With Blackhawk Flight at Fort Bragg

FORT BRAGG, N.C. — Nov. 6, 2026 — For more than 20 Soldiers assigned to the 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB), reenlisting in the North Carolina Army National Guard came with an experience unlike any other: a flight aboard an Army UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter.

The North Carolina National Guard recognized Soldiers who reenlisted during the year by giving them a special opportunity to take to the skies, celebrating their continued commitment to military service with a memorable blackhawk flight.

The event highlighted more than 20 Soldiers from across the 130th MEB who chose to continue serving. For some, the celebration was even more meaningful, as they had the opportunity to reenlist aboard the blackhawk itself.

Maj. Christopher Greene, commander of the 105th Engineer Battalion, spearheaded the operation, helping coordinate an experience that recognized the brigade's Soldiers' dedication and commitment.

For Greene, finding unique ways to recognize Soldiers and their continued service is just the beginning.

"When it comes to highlighting Soldiers, the sky is the limit," Greene said. "With future reenlistment ceremonies, we're looking at including rappelling operations and potentially an opportunity to skydive with the Golden Knights."

The 130th MEB coordinated with the 449th Combat Aviation Battalion to make the flight experience possible.

" We worked with the 449th Combat Aviation Battalion to plan this ceremony," said Maj. Tavius Lewis. "It was amazing to give these Soldiers an opportunity to fly on an Army Blackhawk."

The flight provided more than just an opportunity to experience Army aviation firsthand. It also recognized Soldiers who have chosen to continue their service and remain committed to the North Carolina National Guard's mission.

The Soldiers recognized during the event included U.S. Army Specialist Andrew Gomez Reza, Gianna Garcia Vargas, David Gisell, Sgt. Dylan Harbeson, Staff Sgt. Johannes Arnold, Sgt. Dandre King, SPC Caleb Luther, SPC Amy Gonzalez, SPC Sandra Valdovinos, Sgt. Italo Olmoburgos, Spc Nyriah Kelly, Staff Sgt.Tyler Valentino, Sgt. Steven Williams, Pfc. Dalton Murphy, SPC Liam Tew, Sgt. Anthony Neiland , Master Sgt. Adam Huneycutt, SPC Isaiah Lathan, Sgt. Holly Mickenheim, SPC Kornkamonwan Soba, Staff Sgt.Tyler Riddle, Sgt. Cody Conner, SPC Ceceu Policarpio, Spc Elijah Conley, Staff Sgt. Trinidad Escobedo, and Staff Sgt.Karina Mata. Through creative recognition events like the Black Hawk flight, the 130th MEB continues to highlight the Soldiers who make up its ranks and demonstrate their commitment to serving the state and nation.

For these Soldiers, reenlistment represents more than signing another contract. It represents a renewed commitment to their fellow Soldiers, their communities, and the mission of the North Carolina National Guard. ( Department of War story by Capt. Shamari Pratt)

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