October 16, 2016 –
BELL, Calif. (Oct. 16, 2016) – Army Reserve Soldiers from the 376th Human Resources Company were honored by friends, family and fellow Soldiers during their farewell ceremony for their upcoming deployment.
A platoon-sized element from the 376th is designated to assist with administrative duties in Kuwait this fall.
“I’m most looking forward to the traveling and the experience of being in another country,” said Spc. Nycholaus Dover, who has only been in the Army for one year. “Deployment is an experience that only a handful of people will ever get to take in.”
Preparing for her third deployment, Sgt. 1st Class Shermaine Avelino, the non-commissioned officer in charge, shared the importance of communicating back home while overseas.
“Whether it’s email, phone, or text, we make sure our Soldiers are staying connected, especially during the holidays,” said Avelino.
“Communication is key. Take care of your family back home and over there,” said Cpt. Daniel Hernandez, the executive officer for the 371st Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, March Field, California.
“Suicide is still an ongoing issue, so make sure everyone is communicating and be there for each other,” said Hernandez.
“The Family Readiness Group is setting up a phone tree in case any Soldier needs something overseas, and the FRG here at the unit is available if family members need anything too,” said Avelino.
The farewell ceremony presented an opportunity for family members to meet others who will deploy with their Soldiers and strengthen bonds before the unit leaves.