An emotional day filled with a sense of pride as, fifteen Civilian marines left Albany Thursday, to head to Afghanistan and Kuwait to help the war effort. The workers will maintain and repair heavy equipment for the troops.
"We got a request down here that they need more mechanics to support the effort," says Bobby Sherman, MCLB Work Supervisor.
Civilian Marine, Willie Shiloh says, "They are there to fight and we want to make sure that they have the support that they need and the equipment ready to roll when they go out on the battle field."
The group consists of skilled and seasoned workers who know the machinery well. All were volunteers for deployment and were not hired specific for the job. They'll be working on lifesaving equipment that protects Marines in the field.
Sherman says, "MRAPV is a mine resistant ambush protection vehicle. It goes outside the lines so these vehicles protect the soldiers, the marines, or the airmen that go outside the wire."
But being away from family for almost a year will be tough for many
"I'm excited but a little bit anxious about leaving my family for a year," says Civilian Marine Jamie Strickland.
But for the good of the country, and all they ask for is support and positive thoughts back home.
"We need their support and prayers while we are gone, and to think about us getting home safe and sound," says Shiloh.
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