Hundreds gathered at the McCrady Training Center in Eastover, South Carolina, Sunday afternoon as approximately 400 members of the 122nd Engineer Battalion prepared to deploy to Washington, D.C.
Mission Overview
The deployment is part of the “Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission,” a collaborative effort between the National Guard and law enforcement aimed at enhancing safety across the nation’s capital during federal initiatives to address crime in multiple communities.
Emotional Farewells
The departure ceremony highlighted the emotional moments between service members and their families. Children clung to parents’ uniforms while spouses exchanged quiet words.
“It’s very emotional, but I’m very proud that he is going and helping keep the peace and serving our country,” said one soldier’s wife.
Robert Graham, a member of the battalion, added, “It’s very emotional. We spend a lot of time together, and that is going to be the hardest part about this mission.”
Leadership Remarks
Battalion commander Jay Sirmon praised the dedication of the troops.
“When the nation calls and when the state calls, they leave their civilian jobs, they leave their schools, and they go wherever they are called to serve,” Sirmon said. He emphasized the mission’s primary goal: keeping residents, tourists, and visitors in D.C. safe.
Cody Puckett, operations NCO, noted the unique aspects of this deployment.
“It’s very different, especially considering being in the capital, knowing that you have so many people in one spot, all the special events that are coming up, and just having that many soldiers on the ground,” he said.
Community Support
Sirmon also highlighted the importance of community involvement.
“The turnout demonstrates the tremendous support for the National Guard. When these soldiers go away from home, whether overseas or on domestic missions, they remember the support they have,” he said.
One soldier’s wife reflected on the ceremony: “I’m so proud of him and everything that he does… this is not a goodbye, just a see you later.”
