185th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion Establishes New Home in Fairfield and Joins the Chamber

The Headquarters of the 185th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB) of the Iowa Army National Guard has established its new home at the Fairfield Armory. This move marks a new chapter for both the battalion and our community, strengthening the long-standing bond between the citizens of Iowa and the soldiers who serve them.

Who We Are and What We Do

Led by Lieutenant Colonel Kiel Archer and Command Sergeant Major David J. Gossard, the 185th CSSB is a diverse and highly-skilled battalion focused on logistics and support. In simple terms, we are the backbone of operations. Our mission is to conduct training that prepares our soldiers to support the state and defend the nation. We ensure that military units have the supplies, equipment, and services necessary to accomplish their missions, whether responding to a local emergency or deploying overseas.

Our ranks are filled with Citizen-Soldiers from communities across Iowa who bring a wide array of professional skills. The 185th includes combat engineers, heavy vehicle operators, mechanics, plumbers, water purification specialists, IT specialists, human resources professionals, and many more. These dedicated individuals balance their civilian careers and family lives with their commitment to serving our country and state.

A Statewide Family of Units

While the battalion headquarters is now in Fairfield, the 185th CSSB has a large footprint of subordinate units stationed throughout Iowa. These units include:

• Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 185th CSSB: Located in Fairfield, providing command and control for the entire battalion.
• 831st Engineer Company: Located in Middletown and Camp Dodge, specializing in both vertical and horizontal construction projects.
• 833rd Engineer Company: Located in Ottumwa, focused on combat engineering tasks like mobility and survivability operations.
• 1133rd Transportation Company: Located in Mason City and Iowa City, responsible for transporting cargo, equipment, and supplies.
• Company A, 1347th Division Sustainment Support Battalion: Located in Clinton and Camp Dodge, providing general supplies, petroleum, water, and field services like laundry and showers.
• Company B, 1347th Division Sustainment Support Battalion: Located in Knoxville and Oskaloosa, providing crucial field maintenance and vehicle recovery.

Committed to Serving Iowa

The motto of the National Guard is "Always Ready," and the soldiers of the 185th CSSB live that creed. Our members have been instrumental in statewide emergency responses, including providing critical support during the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery efforts following the 2020 Derecho.

Our commitment extends deep into the local communities we call home. The 185th is proud to be an active member of the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce. We are engaged with local schools, participating in events like the Fairfield High School Veterans Day Ceremony and establishing the "Warrior-Citizen" Award to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional character and dedication. Our soldiers also volunteer their time to support local initiatives like the Lord's Cupboard.

The 185th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion is excited to be part of the Fairfield community and looks forward to building strong, lasting relationships with its citizens, businesses, and leaders. We are your neighbors, and we are proud to serve.

LTC Kiel Archer

CSM David Gossard