GILLETTE, Wyo. — The Alpha Battery of the 2nd Battalion 300th Field Artillery Regiment had a special send-off Tuesday morning as they prepared for a full deployment to the Middle East. The deployment marked the first time since the Korean War since the full unit had been sent out, though they have been deployed partially multiple times since.
Guardsmen and their families gathered at the football stadium at Campbell County High School for a ceremony where Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon addressed the crowd. In his speech, he addressed not just soldiers, but also the families they were leaving behind.
He acknowledged the sacrifice military families go through when a loved one deploys and said he and Wyoming First Lady Jenny Gordon were ready to offer their support.
“You are participating in history. And I wanted to tell you, Jenny and I know what a sacrifice it is for families … to the families here, we’re behind you absolutely. I want you to know if there’s anything you need from us, don’t hesitate to call,” Gordon said.
Other state officials also offered support, with some lawmakers in attendance or providing letters of support which were read aloud.
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso thanked the guardsmen for their service and sacrifice in a letter, “With courage and determination, you preserve the sanctity of our nation’s values. We know you do not take this mission lightly,” Barrasso wrote. “Thank you for your strength, courage and resiliency. You have my appreciation for the unwavering patriotism of you and your loved ones.”
As part of the send-off ceremony ,Gordon and squad leaders also signed a gift for the soldiers:
A white “Now Entering Wyoming” road sign that traditionally hangs in the barracks for the squad.
Following the ceremony, soldiers and their families were invited to a catered lunch meal that Wyoming State Senator Eric Barlow had arranged and paid for.
