Special Sendoff Ceremony for Soldiers
By: Web Producer
Updated: January 3, 2008
Thousands of soldiers from across Indiana are heading to Iraq. Wednesday, they got a strong show of support during a special sendoff ceremony.
The Indiana National Guard is deploying its largest group of soldiers since World War II.
3400 soldiers from units across the state will begin a year-long tour overseas this March.
A farewell ceremony at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis was full of cheers and tears.
An estimated 25,000 friends, family and state officials gathered to praise the soldiers for their service.
Governor Mitch Daniels said, "Becky and I are here today on behalf of your third family, the people of Indiana, and they would have us tell you that your third family will do all that we can do to see that your first family is supported in your absence; this i promise you."
The troops recently trained together at Camp Atterbury.
Theyll head to Iraq after they complete additional training at Fort Stewart, Georgia.
