By By LYDIA GRIMES – Features Writer
A large group of people gathered at Fort Don Bryant at Brewton Airport on Saturday, March 15, to take part in a deployment ceremony for the members of Detachment I of the 1165th Military Police Company. As family members and guests watched, the unit was given the wishes and prayers of a grateful community.
Mayor Ted Jennings of Brewton and Mayor Carl Smith of Riverview were on hand to wish the men a safe journey and quick return. Brigadier General Brad Brightman, Adjutant General of Alabama and Brigadier General Perry Smith, along with Company Commander Captain Chris Butler were there to offer words of support, not only for those members of the guard, but also for the families that were being left behind. The ceremony also included emotional renditions of "The Star Spangled Banner" and "God Bless America" led by Hal Parker.
This same unit was called upon in the fall of 1990 and the destination is likely to be the same. The first leg of their journey will take them to Fort Benning, Ga. for training for possible overseas duty.
Parents, wives and children watched as their loved ones prepared to leave for an unsure future that may take them to foreign shores. Feelings were in evidence in the form of tears, but for the most part, family members were taking the situation well.
Carolyn Geck, who was at the ceremony, said that she remembered the last time there was a deployment of this unit.
The mood of the crowd was one of sadness, but also one of pride. Everyone may not support the idea of a war with Iraq, but there is no doubt that the men who are leaving Brewton are well supported by their community.