|
Updated: 11:50 PM Jan 2, 2008
Thousands of IN soldiers head to Iraq
More than 3,400 soldiers from Indiana's National Guard are heading to Iraq. It is the largest deployment of the Indiana Guard since World War II.
Posted: 11:42 PM Jan 2, 2008Reporter: Sarah Platt Email Address: sarah.platt@wndu.com |
|
Thousands of Indiana National Guard soldiers are heading to Iraq. On Wednesday, those troops had an official send-off in Indianapolis and families had a chance to say goodbye one last time.
About 25,000 people packed the stands of the RCA Dome, home of the Indianapolis Colts, but on this occasion these people are not football fans; they are here to say farewell.
“It's the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I got used to saying goodbye to him, but knowing he won't be back for a year, it’s tough,” says Amanda Borders, whose fiancée is heading to Iraq.
“I hate to do this to my family again, leave my son, my wife and leave her with all the responsibilities of home again,” adds Staff Sergeant Rick Love, of Greensburg, Indiana.
More than 3,400 Indiana National Guard troops will be heading to Iraq. Many elected officials, families and friends were on hand to wish the soldiers well. Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels addressed the service men and women, “May the hand of the Lord be upon you and may you meet your duty with full honor.”
“You are the very best that Indiana has to offer,” added Congressman Joe Donnelly.
These soldiers come from several different units, but all make up the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. This deployment is the largest single unit shipped out by the Indiana Guard since World War II.
“Nervous and scared, but my family is very supportive of me,” says PFC Dian Martz of Fort Wayne.
About 150 soldiers from Warsaw's Alpha Company are heading out. For many, this is not their first time to Iraq. Soldiers embraced their families one last time before their long-awaited return.
These Indiana National Guard troops will be deployed for twelve months. They are expected back at the end of 2008 or early 2009.
| WNDU News Poll |
| There are currently no active polls at this time. Click here to view other polls on our site and past poll results. |
- Young girls walk in on four people having sex in restaurant bathroom
- UPDATE: Seven kids in one family badly hurt in car crash
- UPDATE: Candlelight vigil held Monday night for slain Niles couple
- Dowagiac man admits killing close friend
- Penn High School coach arrested for vandalizing ex-girlfriend's home
- As Seen on TV: Twin Draft Guard
- UPDATE: Four minors flown to Kalamazoo hospital after crash
- UPDATE: Stolen dog returned to grateful couple
- Mike Hoffman's Winter Weather Prediction for 2009-2010
- Michiana doctors lend helping hand in Haiti
- Penn High School coach arrested for vandalizing ex-girlfriend's home
48 Comments - South Bend officer involved in car accident
43 Comments - UPDATE: Seven kids in one family badly hurt in car crash
38 Comments - Brees, Saints top Manning, Colts to win Super Bowl
24 Comments - Neighbors react to Niles double homicide
23 Comments - Congressman Donnelly meets with AM General workers
19 Comments










