Arkansas' 39th Infantry Brigade Deploys

It is a very sad time for many Arkansas residents. Members of the 39th Infantry Brigade are on their way to Iraq for what is going to be a 10 month deployment. For some of the soldiers, this is their second deployment to Iraq. The 39th Infantry Brigade returned from Iraq early in 2005. These soldiers will be escorting top level officials and doing other security duties.

In Cabot, Arkansas, family and friends of the soldiers were kissing and hugging them before they boarded the buses that will take them to Camp Shelby in Mississippi where they will go to their training camp before leaving for Iraq. The day was filled with a mixture of laughter and tears.

Even through the tears, family and friends were supportive of the mission of the soldiers. "They are working for the good of us all. It's not always a choice to go, but when their skill is something that is needed then they go." Those were the words of Carrie Snapp of Walnut Ridge.
Some school age students were on hand with signs and pictures for the troops that they crafted in school. It was wonderful to see that even some of the youngest members of the state wanted to do their best to show the troops that they care.

Brandon Barnhill, a student at Hoxie High School summed up the general feeling of this time by saying "The sense of pride is just overwhelming for everyone."

While most of the soldiers are excited to serve their country, some admit that they are also scared. It seems to be the uncertainty of the situation that is making the deployment unsettling for some of the soldiers who have not been deployed to Iraq in the past. These soldiers will look to the seasoned veterans to help make the transition easier.

For a few of the soldiers, the time home was very short. Some of the 875th have been called back to duty by our country. Region 8 welcomed the 875th home in October. These soldiers agree that they are glad that unlike some, they got to spend the holiday season with their loved ones.

One sign in the crowd caught my eye. It said "Pray for our loved ones who serve our country. Without them, we would not know freedom." That statement shows the pride of the loved ones who are giving up the people who matter the most to them.

So, to our brave soldiers everywhere: Good Luck and God Bless. We think of you everyday. Your sacrifice is appreciated!