An Ohio National Guard brigade based in Springfield was sent off by family and friends this afternoon as the soldiers prepare for deployment overseas.
The 371st brigade is first headed to Texas for training before deployment to Southwest Asia.
A large crowed cheered and waved as the men and women marched into the venue on the Wittenberg University campus. Elected officials and military leaders addressed the group, wishing them well and thanking them for their service.
“When they deploy, they are going to be responsible for everything from beans to bulleets, beds to buses,” Ohio Adjutant Gen. Mark Bartman said. “They encompass pretty much the entire spectrum.”
Col. Gregg Betts, who will lead the brigade to Southwest Asia, said the support shown from family, friends and the community is appreciated.
"Your well wishes and thoughts and prayers means more to us than you'll ever know as we embark on our mission overseas," he said. "I want to assure you that we are ready. We are ready to live up to our duties and responsibilities."
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