CT Army National Guard deploying 700

Hartford (AP/WTNH) - Two units of the Connecticut Army National Guard are sending 700 soldiers to the Middle East in the largest single deployment of Connecticut guard members since the Korean War.

A send-off ceremony was held at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford on Sunday afternoon.

Governor Rell's office said the 102nd Infantry will help train Afghanistan's Army, police and border police forces. Its units are located in Norwalk, Manchester, New Britain, Branford and Southington.

"It's heartbreaking for my kids to miss their father; it's going to be a year, birthdays and Christmas," said Karen Moorehead.

Leaving behind his wife and two daughters for the front lines, Sgt. David Moorehead is ready to return for duty.

"I'll be thinking of them," said Sgt. Moorehead.

"The hardest part is waiting; waiting for the return," said retired PFC William Willette.

And he has a lot to wait for: a son and two grandchildren in the infantry; all stationed or on their way to the Middle East.

"We followed in our fathers footsteps; he was with the old guard in DC Fort Myer in Arlington. He inspired me to be an infantryman," said Sgt. Brian Willette.

The departing troops also include members of the 250th Engineer Company of New London. Their job will be to ensure safe routes for troops on the move in Iraq.