Story Created:
Jun 2, 2007 at 6:19 PM EST
Story Updated:
Aug 10, 2007 at 10:01 AM EST
(WSBT) It was an emotional goodbye Saturday afternoon as local national guard troops left home, bound for another tour on the battlefield in Iraq.
Less than three weeks ago, 175 members of South Bend-based Company F learned they would be sent to Iraq for a 13-month tour of duty. For many, it's their second time there.
The departure ceremony ended a little after four Saturday afternoon. After that, families were given some time for goodbyes, tears and hugs.
"I’m really proud of him and I want him home safe, back with his kids," says Natasha Averegg whose husband is serving with Company F.
As most parents held their sons and said, "Goodbye", one father said "See you later”.
"I joined this unit because my son joined this unit a year ago," says Specialist Mitch Nihart of Elkhart. "I signed back up, put boots back on to be with him."
Private First Class Mitch Nihart II, who just finished high school and boot camp, will be joining his father and Company F in a month. But he's already getting teased.
"They say ‘Ah he's probably going to give you a lot of push ups man’," says Pfc. Nihart.
But his father couldn't be prouder.
"No greater honor than to serve with your son," says Spc. Nihart.
Another proud parent was Cindy Rice whose son is following in her footsteps by serving overseas.
"It makes me a worrier because I know what's going on over there. I understand what’s going on," says Rice, who served in Desert Storm. "You don't know really for sure who your enemy is. You just worry about his safety because it's a scary time."
Specialist Nicholas Rice was ten when his mom served in Desert Storm and is leaning on her for support and understanding.
"It helps me out a lot because I know she understands a lot more than I can ever explain," says Spc. Rice.
Company F left Kimble Reserve Center bound for training at Fort Dix in New Jersey. Their mission will involve perimeter security, but members will learn more about it during their training. From Ft. Dix, they will be deployed to Iraq where they will serve for a year.
