Carolina News
December 6

Around 100 COSCOM (Corps Support Command) soldiers left family and friends behind to help provide support to the troops fighting the war on terror.

"We supply the beans, bullets, and the bread," said Sergeant Sean Hennessee who also said this deployment will be his first. Knowing he'll be away from his wife for the next six to eight months, this year's Thanksgiving brought on a whole new meaning.

“It was bittersweet at the same time,” he said. “Knowing that this is the last holiday I get to spend with her before I come back. I'll be gone for her birthday, my birthday, and probable our anniversary."

Other soldiers from COSCOM’s 46th Corps Support Group are trying to enjoy a few simple luxuries, before leaving for Uzbekistan. They'll soon be providing supplies like food, water, and ammunition, to the troops fighting the war on terror.

Many soldiers said the deployment over the holidays will be hard but they’re thankful the troops they're replacing overseas, will get to come home and spend Christmas with their families.

"I'm sure it will be one of the most memorable occasions in their lives,” said Captain Toby Logsdon. “Because they didn't get to spend Thanksgiving with their families, but Christmas will be a benefit for them."

Deborah Williams' husband is commander of the 46th Corps Support Group. She said deployments are usually the hardest on younger couples. But she has some simple advice to help keep spouses from getting homesick. "Make sure to send letters and boxes,” she said. “Even though there is email over there, it's real important they get that contact from home. It's very important to do that."

Sergeant Hennessee said it isn't easy leaving loved ones behind, but sacrifices need to be made to protect the nation's freedoms. "The war on terror needs to be done,” he said. “I'm just doing my part."

The COSCOM troops will replace a Utah reserve unit serving in Uzbekistan.

The Bragg soldiers will stay at Camp Stronghold Freedom through the bitter winter months and will return to the Tar Heel state sometime next summer.

---