Fort Carson soldiers return from helping COVID-19 efforts in Los Angeles

FORT CARSON, CO. (KRDO) - About 200 soldiers with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will be coming home after being deployed to Los Angeles to support FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency with COVID-19 vaccine efforts at California State University, Los Angeles.

The soldiers deployed under the leadership of the 299th Brigade Engineer Battalion of the 1st SBCT and left for Los Angeles on February 11.

“It was a privilege and an honor for all of us to serve the American people in this historic effort. Our soldiers administered more than 300,000 COVID-19 vaccinations,” said Lt. Col. Andy Olson, commander, 299th BEB, 1st SBCT, 4th Inf. Div. “They exemplified professionalism, respect, and compassion, and the people of East Los Angeles were so gracious and appreciative. These human interactions are truly what made the mission special for all involved.”

The city of Los Angeles assumed control of vaccination operations at Cal State Los Angeles on April 12.