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1-17 Cavalry deploys to Iraq

November 17, 2004

FORT BRAGG, N.C. (Army News Service Nov. 17, 2004) -- About 300 paratroopers from the 1st Squadron, 17 Cavalry, 82nd Airborne Division, deployed to Iraq from Green Ramp, Pope Air Force Base, Nov. 11-12, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

During the 12-month deployment, the squadron will be working with Soldiers of the 42nd Aviation Brigade, 42nd Infantry Division, NewYork National Guard, conducting aerial reconnaissance, aerial surveillance and air cavalry missions.

The Soldiers have been honing their skills in preparation for the deployment since July. They have conducted several gunnery skills and weapons ranges as well as flight hours with the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopters.

While expecting the training to be useful in theater, Spc. Samuel Wilbert, a medic with 1st Squad, said another valuable asset may be the experience of the paratroopers who have already deployed to combat.

Wilbert was assigned to the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment when he deployed to Afghanistan in 2002.

"Combat is rough and mentally hard on you. You've just got to do what you can to mentally prepare for it," Wilbert said.

The paratroopers are not the only ones who have mentally prepared for the deployment. The families and friends carried a great deal of stress as they counted down the days and hours until their loved ones departed.

Cheryl Blewer drove to Fort Bragg from Pensacola, Fla., to say goodbye to her son, Spc. Jonathan Blewer, 1st Squad., as he was leaving for his third deployment in two years. She said it was very important for her to say a prayer with her son and his friends before he left.

"It doesn't get any easier," Cheryl said. "I know God will watch after him and make sure he and all of the Soldiers come home safe. I'm just glad there are men and women like them who are willing to stand up and help make our country safe."

(Editor's note: Sgt. Carden is member of the 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs Office.)