Connecticut National Guard Deploys to Middle East

In the predawn hours of Friday, the quiet air around Bradley Air National Guard Base in East Granby felt heavy. Tearful farewells, proud hugs, and a sense of determination filled the scene.

Connecticut National Guard soldiers are heading out on a year-long deployment to the Middle East. They’re leaving behind families, friends, and neighbors who’ll be thinking of them every single day.

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From Ansonia to Hamden, and from New Haven to Waterbury, loved ones gathered at the base. They honored the soldiers’ service, shared their worries, and sent them off with heartfelt blessings.

Connecticut Families Send Off Soldiers with Pride and Emotion

For families across Connecticut, this deployment feels deeply personal. Maria Teixeira of Ansonia stood among the crowd, watching her son walk toward an uncertain horizon.

Her son, Hector Rivera, is facing his first overseas assignment. He’s following the path set by her father, a Vietnam veteran, and that family legacy brings both pride and worry.

Young Soldiers Following Lifelong Dreams

In Hamden, Antonio Lopez felt a similar mix of emotions. His son, 22-year-old Eric Bucio, has dreamed of serving in the military since he was a kid.

Bucio joined the Connecticut National Guard at 17, turning his childhood dream into reality. Now, with his family and community behind him, he’s stepping into a role that demands courage and sacrifice.

Leadership Speaks at Bradley Air National Guard Base

Before the soldiers departed, Major General Francis Evon of the Connecticut National Guard spoke to them. He urged everyone to stay disciplined and mission-focused, and to make Connecticut proud—whether they’re from Hartford, Bridgeport, or Norwich.

He emphasized unity and professionalism during their time abroad. It’s a message that stuck with many in the crowd.

Governor Lamont Addresses Pay Concerns

Governor Ned Lamont joined the send-off and acknowledged the challenges ahead—not just for the soldiers, but for families back home. With a possible government shutdown threatening military pay delays, Lamont tried to reassure anxious parents and spouses.

He said Connecticut is working to ensure servicemembers get paid, even if it comes a bit late. His words offered some comfort, though the worry lingered.

Deployment Plans and Destination Details

The troops come from the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment, a unit with deep roots in places like New Britain, Danbury, and Stamford. Their journey starts with training in Texas before heading overseas.

Connecticut’s soldiers will be stationed in several Middle Eastern countries, including Kuwait, Jordan, and Syria.

Mission Objectives Abroad

Specific details about their mission remain classified. The deployment will include security operations, training exercises with allies, and support activities aimed at keeping key areas stable.

These missions matter for both U.S. interests and international partnerships. No one pretends it’s easy work.

Community Support Across Connecticut

The departure has sparked waves of support throughout the state. Local organizations, veterans groups, and schools in towns like Milford and Middletown are already organizing letter-writing campaigns and care package drives.

Fundraising events are also popping up to help both the soldiers abroad and their families here at home. It’s heartening to see people come together this way.

How Residents Can Get Involved

Connecticut residents who want to support deployed soldiers can:

Join care package assembly events in their town
Write letters to soldiers stationed overseas
Volunteer with family support services
Attend send-off and welcome-home ceremonies
Give to fundraising programs that benefit military families

Final Thoughts

The send-off from Bradley Air National Guard Base felt both solemn and spirited. Pride, hope, and a bit of worry lingered in the air as families from all over the state gathered to say goodbye.

These soldiers are heading from Connecticut to Texas, then on to the Middle East. They’re carrying the weight of their mission—and honestly, the love and support of everyone back home.

From Hartford’s busy streets to the quiet corners of Ansonia, people across Connecticut are hoping for their safe return. Their courage is a reminder that service isn’t easy, but it brings a kind of meaning and community strength you just can’t fake.

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Here is the source article for this story: CT National Guard members embark on deployment to Middle East

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