Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 22d Infantry, deployed in late April 2002 to become part of Joint Task Force 160, deployed to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba. Approximately 200 soldiers from the 1st Battalion were tasked with providing external security for the detainee facilities. The battalion deployed twice from April–July and again from September–December 2002. This included fixed site security, patrols, observation posts, a quick reaction force, and also playing a role in escorting and transporting detainees. The soldiers of the 22d Infantry were awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Award for their outstanding service in Cuba during this period.