FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto Rico - Once in Afghanistan, the soldiers will be supporting the retrograde operations, as part of the withdrawal of troops in the theater of war, while performing duty with the Defense Logistic Agency.
"I know you will succeed in this mission. Remember, you not only represent the Army Reserve, you also represent Puerto Rico. Do your best so we can continue building a legacy of excellence, as we have done so far," said Brig. Gen. Fernando Fernandez, commanding general of the 1st MSC, while addressing the deploying soldiers.
"Throughout the 238 years of the US Army's existence and the 90 years of the Army Reserve presence in Puerto Rico, we have experienced many challenges in the nation's fiscal reality. However, one thing never changes: the service and dedication of our men and women in uniform," said Fernandez while referring to the possible federal government shutdown.
As part of their preparation for this mission, the troops attended two weeks Expeditionary Disposal Remediation Team training at Battle Creek, Mich.
"I feel confident. I believe all the soldiers are very well prepared for this mission," said 1st Lt. William Vega, a quartermaster officer, who is being mobilized for the first time.
Meanwhile, Spc. Luis Suarez, a Carolina, Puerto Rico, native who has been in the Army Reserve for five years, expressed mixed emotions.
"I feel a little bit sad because I am going to be separated from the family during the time of the deployment, which is a difficult process for every soldier," said Suarez, minutes before walking down the security checkpoint.
"I want to have new experiences and to be able to obtain new knowledge that allows me to help other soldiers in the future," added Suarez while referring to his expectations about the mission.
Maria Ortiz, Suarez' wife, portrayed a positive attitude.
"I feel very confident that my husband goes with God's protection. That is my strength. I am very proud of my husband," said Ortiz, who has been married to Suarez for 15 years.
This Army Reserve detachment is the sixth group of troops mobilized from Puerto Rico this year, in support to combat operations in Afghanistan.
Currently, there are approximately 250 soldiers from the U.S. Army Reserve-Puerto Rico serving in Afghanistan and other countries around the world.
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