Year in Afghan war zone begins for ONG members

A soldier from the Oregon National Guard

A soldier from the Oregon National Guard talks to KATU as he says goodbye to his son Saturday while preparing for one year of military service in Afghanistan.

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Story Published: Nov 1, 2009 at 3:48 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 2, 2009 at 11:02 AM PST

By Anna Song KATU News and KATU.com Staff

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DALLAS, Ore. - One hundred Oregon national guard soldiers and 100 families are all preparing for a year-long sacrifice.

It began with a "Call of Duty" ceremony in Dallas Saturday. For some it's a first. For others, this is a familiar feeling.

One can argue that it doesn't get any easier the second time around.

"It will be tough to miss some of the milestones," said Duffy Cavanaugh, being deployed with the Oregon National Guard. "Missing his first day of kindergarten will be tough."

In Dallas, Governor Ted Kulongoski prepared these men and women for a year of clearing roadside bombs in Afghanistan. The soldiers were honored by veterans of World War II, and supported by their families in attendance. (Watch the video above for KATU's coverage of the event.)

These are Oregonians pulling together as the call of duty draws them apart. These soldiers say that they hope, in the end, they'll be a part of a  better country and a better world.

"It's mission first," said Anthony Brown, also being deployed with the Oregon National Guard. "We've been called to do this, so we have to step forward."

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