Sendoff set for Norton-based Guard unit Special to The Hays Daily News

Approximately 80 Kansas National Guardsmen of the 170th Maintenance Company will be honored in a departure ceremony at 10 a.m. Feb. 12 at Hangar 600, 2720 Arnold Ave.,  Salina. The public is invited. The unit is deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

“I have every confidence that these soldiers will perform their mission with the disciplined professionalism and pride that has become the hallmark of our Kansas National Guard soldiers and airmen,” said Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general. “We wish them well, God-speed and look forward to the day we welcome them home.”

“The soldiers of the 170th Support Maintenance Company have been preparing for this deployment for several months,” said Capt. Scott Weber, commander of the 170th Maintenance Company. “As we move into the final stages of our mobilization training the troops are engaged, motivated and diligent. They are a prime example of what a well maintain and disciplined unit should be.

“These soldiers will represent their communities, state and country with loyalty, honor and respect,” said Weber. “The 170th has not deployed since Desert Storm and I am honored to embark on this mission with each and every one of them, while we place down another milestone for the 170th.”

The soldiers of the 170th will be sent to Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Hattiesburg, Miss., where they will receive additional training before deploying overseas.

While deployed, the unit will operate a security detail mission for VIPs, American citizens and contractors in Kuwait, as well as participate in base security, as required.

The 170th Maintenance Company is a subordinate unit of the 287th Special Troop Battalion, Hays. They are headquartered in Norton, with a subordinate unit in Colby.