MN National Guard prepares for deployment
Published 5:49 pm Saturday, March 2, 2013
A departure ceremony is scheduled for today for 149 soldiers of the 850th Horizontal Engineer Company, Cambridge, Minn., who are deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
The nearest soldier is from Albert Lea.
“We have a very professional group of soldiers that are ready to respond to our nation’s call,” said Army Capt. Michael J. Thompson, 850th Horizontal Engineer Company Commander.
“I am very confident in these soldiers, as they are the most qualified soldiers to perform this mission,” he added. “Over the past few months we have trained hard and formed a strong bond where individuals can rely on each other for strength and mentorship.”
“Our company is an engineer unit that will provide heavy equipment, hauling and maintenance support for several forward operating bases throughout Afghanistan,” said Army 1st Sgt. Jeffry C. Taylor, 850th Horizontal Engineer Company First Sergeant.
People are invited to attend the departure ceremony 3 p.m. at the Cambridge High School, 430 NW 8th Ave., Cambridge, Minn., 55008.