Connecticut National Guard members deploying to Iraq and Kuwait

HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) - About 80 Connecticut National Guard members deployed to Iraq and Kuwait Sunday in support of U.S. military operations, saying goodbye to families at a sendoff ceremony at the Hartford Armory.

The members are from the 143rd Regional Support Group, which is responsible for base and logistical operations overseas while also responding to emergencies at home.

“It’s such an honor to be here to send off the dedicated men and women,” Lt. Gov. Susan Biesiewicz said at the ceremony.

Families say goodbye

For some families, the deployment marked a first. Dijuana Golden said her husband’s deployment comes as the couple has a 3-month-old baby at home.

“He leaves next month and I’m really nervous about it. We have a 3-month-old baby,” Golden said.

Golden told Channel 3 the deployment comes during a chapter the family cannot get back, as her husband will miss their daughter’s first steps.

“I signed up for this. I know this day was going to come. But I’m not alone. There are other families going through the same thing and I have a great support system,” Golden said.

Unit prepared for deployment

Colonel Ben Neumon, Chief of the Joint Staff for the Connecticut National Guard, said the unit has been preparing for the mission.

“Been training for a year for this deployment. We are heading out to Kuwait and Iraq in a bit,” Neumon said.

Dozens of families and state leaders attended the ceremony to support the departing Guard members.

Golden said her family will be waiting for her husband’s return.

“I love you, I’m here for you. Cindy is going to look forward for you to come back so come back home,” Golden said.