WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) will speak Friday at the
deployment ceremony for members of Southeast Missouri National Guard units as part of the 110th Combat Engineer Battalion.  Approximately 80 individuals have been called up for duty.

 

“These men and women are making a tremendous sacrifice for the good of our country, not to mention peace and stability in the Middle East.  It is important to give them a proper send-off, and also to let them know that our community stands behind them 100 percent while they are gone,” Emerson said.  “The prayers and support of our community are essential during a difficult time for these families.  Whether it is going to little league games, helping cut the grass or bringing over the occasional meal for these families, the little things make a big difference on the home front.”

 

“Our soldiers are making tremendous progress in the Middle East, and it is important to
remember that we aren’t just sending troops to Iraq to fight.  These individuals are engineers and their mission is to build.  A stronger infrastructure means a more stable Iraq, and that translates to a more secure America.  These soldiers are truly heroes for the good work they are doing.”

 

 

Members of the 110th will first be deployed to Fort Riley, Kansas before heading for duty in Iraq.

 

WHO:             U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson
WHAT:           Deployment Ceremony to the 110th Combat Engineer Battalion, MO
                        National Guard
WHEN:           FRIDAY, August 5, 2005 at 7:30 a.m. CDT
WHERE:         National Guard Building at Independence and E. Rodney Street, Cape
                        Girardeau