Hoosier soldiers who took part in an incident while deployed to Kosovo two years ago received a combat patch recognition this week at Camp Atterbury.

According to the Indiana National Guard, more than 300 Guardsmen from the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team were recognized for their actions on May 29, 2023. During the incident violent protestors trapped Kosovo Police and the soldiers from the 76th along with soldiers from the Kosovo Force and police riot control units were sent in to rescue the officers and disperse the crowd. However a violent group fought back with grenades, firearms, improvised explosives and other projectiles. At least 56 explosive devices were detonated and 93 people were injured including seven U.S. soldiers.

A ceremony recognizing the Hoosiers with the combat patch was held Wednesday at Camp Atterbury. The soldiers will now wear the combat patch on their right shoulders recognizing their service in hostile conditions.

Eight brigade soldiers earned the Combat Action Badge for their heroism during the riots for carrying soldiers to safety.