STARKE, Fla. -- Governor Charlie Crist says he's thankful for a group of local soldiers who are preparing for a year-long deployment in Iraq and Kuwait.
“These brave service men and women are a great testament to the outstanding caliber of the Florida National Guard and our nation’s military,” said Governor Crist. “I am proud of what they are accomplishing as they complete their training and am confident they will continue to serve with honor and distinction.”
The 2,450 members of the Florida National Guard's 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat are completing their six-week pre-mobilization training, which is called Operation FALL CLASSIC. It is the final phase of training to prepare for combat overseas.
The soldiers began Operation FALL CLASSIC on October 6th.
