FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
Approximately 20 Soldiers from the 492nd Transportation Detachment (Harbormaster), 10th Transportation Battalion, 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) departed for a deployment after a ceremony at the Army Training Support Center at Fort Eustis, May 16.
The "Sea Masters" deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. They will perform duties for the Department of Defense as well as Coalition forces.
"Once again, the nation calls on the 492nd to deploy in support of OEF, but that call goes out to more than just the Soldiers," said U.S. Army Maj. Matt Panepinto, 10th Transportation Battalion, 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) executive officer. "Emotions are running high as both a sense of pride and sadness fill our hearts. There is pride knowing that our loved ones are answering the call of duty and service to the nation - a call they have freely chosen."
During the deployment, they will be responsible for port management, watercraft safety and planning, as well as coordinating and supervising watercraft missions throughout the central command's area of responsibility.
"Thank you for your support - without it, none of this would be possible," said Panepinto to a group of family members. "The strength of our Army lies in our Soldiers and the strength of our Soldiers lies within our family."