WASHINGTON, Pa. -- Many Washington County reservists are returning to Iraq for second and third times, while some others will deploy for the first time.
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Hugs, Kisses Give Way To Yearlong DeploymentFor those who have gone before, they said leaving loved ones behind doesn't get any easier.
More than 30 soldiers and their families shared a meal before the soldiers began their yearlong journey.
"It's going to be a very logistically intensive operation, (in) which they will play a huge role," Col. Ernest Erlandson said.
The members of the Army Reserve 630th Transportation Company are headed to Iraq, where they will help move equipment as troops prepare to withdraw from the country.
Arthur Roberts and his wife will both be leaving their two daughters behind.
"It's pretty difficult for both of us, mostly for the children. It's real difficult," Staff Sgt. Arthur Roberts said.
Minutes before they departed, the family shared emotional goodbyes.
The deployment also marked Marissa Maloney's first time to Iraq. Her fiance and family came to send her off.
"It's difficult. We just do what we can to serve our country and do what we can to make sure we get home safe," she said.
"You're not supposed to send your children off to war, especially your daughter," said Patrick Maloney, the soldier's father.
As the farewell ended, soldiers shared last-minute hugs and kisses, knowing it's time to begin their mission. The Army reservists will first head to Fort Dix, N.J., to conduct mobilization training before heading to Iraq.
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