26-04-2025
Michigan Army National Guard members say goodbye to loved ones ahead of deployment
GRAND LEDGE Mich. (WLNS) – A unit with the Michigan Army National Guard is headed overseas to support the U.S. European Command.
A deployment ceremony was held at the Grand Ledge Armory Thursday, where families said their goodbyes. This is Captain Timothy Mapley's first deployment, and he shared why these ceremonies are so important.
'This is that last opportunity to give the hugs and kisses that you wish you could have done more of.' Captain Mapley continued.
He is one of around 100 soldiers headed to the country of Kosovo in Europe for up to a year to support Project Joint Guardian. Captain Mapley said he is excited to put his intense training to work, but goodbyes are tough.
It is Lieutenant Colonel Brian Snook's third deployment and third time saying goodbye to his family. He said that support from loved ones is the true bedrock for service members.
'That is what is going to keep you able to serve this great country,' said Lieutenant Colonel Snook.
His wife and kids will miss him a lot, but the Lieutenant Colonel said that for this deployment, technology will help them get by.
'Whether it's over the phone for a few minutes, or just getting to see my beautiful family's face, that's what's going to keep me going through the entire move,' Lieutenant Colonel Snook said.
At the ceremony, around 25 of the 100 soldiers left in helicopters for Texas. From there, they will head to Kosovo, and the rest of the Army National Guard members will follow shortly. They're in the country to help keep a safe and secure environment in the region.
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