SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Approximately 200 Utah National Guard soldiers were asked to help in Washington D.C. for the last five days and were sent home on Sunday evening.

The soldiers, from the 19th Special Forces Group, helped guard national monuments during protests about the killing of George Floyd. Additionally, the soldiers helped clean up parts of the city.

“It’s an honor to get an opportunity to serve in our nation’s capital,” said Sgt. Gilberto Reynosa, a chemical specialist with the 19th SFG (A). “Seeing the aftermath from the events of last week, we felt a tremendous sense of pride to be able to repair some of our monuments. When I got the chance to deploy to D.C. I did not think twice. I would do it again.”

Lt. Col. Brandon Holmer added he is happy the situation in Utah appears to have de-escalated and that his soldiers are able to come home to Utah.

I’m proud of the professionalism and maturity with which our Utah guardsmen conducted themselves. We’re also thankful for the support of our Utah leadership.

The soldiers supported members of the Secret Service, the Department of Justice, and D.C National Guard, according to Holmer, the officer in charge of the mobilization and commander, 1st Battalion, 19th SFG (A).

2News Kyle Harvey provides details about the deployment at 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.