Soldiers are preparing to head to Afghanistan

At the same time as some soldiers were being welcomed home, 29 others were preparing to depart. Members of the 191st Military Police Company will be going to Afghanistan within the month. Sergeant Kieth Pic and other members of the 191st Military Police Company will be going to Afghanistan. The soldiers will provide security for NATO representatives and other dignitaries in the region for about a year.

"I'm very excited, we've been training for this for the last year, and I'm really, really happy to represent the North Dakota Army National Guard." said Sgt. Pic.

Hundreds turned out Saturday for the send-off, including several state leaders.

"We have to recognize that we are putting people in harm's way and we need to find a way to end this war on terror so that we don't have to keep doing that," said Senator John Hoeven.

"There's a reason why the community comes out, because the community wants you to know one thing. We are so grateful for your service," said Senator Heidi Heitkamp.

"Your sacrifice is great, it is never lost on any of us here. Certainly not lost on the community. Certainly not lost on the employers," said Congressman Kevin Cramer.

The send-off was tearful for those being separated because of their service.

"It's hard to leave the family, but I feel that we're very prepared for this through all the training that we've done. I'm happy to be on our way, and sad that I'll be leaving my wife and kids," said Sgt. Pic.

Sergeant Pic will be leaving two children stateside, a seven year old and one year old. The troops deploying are from more than 18 communities across the Dakotas, and Minnesota.