Several Texas National Guard soldiers deployed to support federal operations in Illinois have been pulled from duty after failing mandatory fitness and readiness screenings, the Texas Military Department confirmed.
The actions followed viral photos of Texas troops arriving in the Chicago area that drew widespread attention and criticism. Officials say the removal affects only a “small group” within the roughly 200 National Guard members mobilized, with replacements sent in to maintain force levels.
The screening process evaluated physical fitness, weight standards, and other military readiness criteria. Agencies say any member who does not meet established standards is disqualified from mission deployment.
The deployment itself remains mired in legal scrutiny: a federal court issued a temporary block on National Guard operations in Illinois, citing questions about constitutional authority and justification. The appeals court has since allowed troops to stay put at their base, though ground operations remain restricted.
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