Cold War Veterans Blog

STATEMENT BY GOVERNOR SPITZER ON DEPLOYMENT OF
NEW YORK'S 27TH BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM TO AFGHANISTAN

Today I said farewell to 1,400 soldiers from the New York National Guard--s 27th Brigade who left for tours of duty in Afghanistan. It is at times like these - when soldiers travel abroad to defend our liberties here at home -- that we are reminded that the freedoms we enjoy are only guaranteed through human bravery and sacrifice.

The men and women who departed today embarked on a critically important mission - assisting the Afghan government as it strengthens its security forces to protect its citizens and combat terrorism. We feel enormous pride that the New York National Guard--s 27th Brigade has been chosen as part of that team.

Only the families of these young men and women know the true sacrifices of the citizen soldier. When they arrive on the battlefield, they will be carrying the flags of your state and country, as well as our prayers and the prayers of their families. We could not be prouder of their courage and willingness to defend us.

Today the members of the 27th Brigade carry on a proud tradition of answering the call to duty, and for that, all New Yorkers owe these brave men and women a debt of gratitude.