Local troops preparing to deploy to Iraq got a visit from their congresswoman, Rep. Kay Granger (R-Fort Worth), at their training facility in Fort Stewart, Hinesville, Georgia on Saturday.  The troops are part of the 56th Infantry Combat Brigade, headquartered in Fort Worth. 

“These soldiers are American heroes,” said Granger. “The sacrifices they make to be away from their families and to put themselves in harm’s way for our country is truly humbling and inspiring.”

The 56th Infantry Combat Brigade (56th IBCT) is preparing for deployment to Iraq in the coming weeks.  Congresswoman Granger had been unable to see the troops off before they left North Texas for training in Georgia, so she flew to Georgia Friday to visit with and thank them before they deployed to Iraq. 

Congresswoman Granger toured the training area and ate dinner with 15 soldiers from Weatherford and Fort Worth.  

“I am always impressed with the incredible dedication of our citizen soldiers,” said Granger. “These men and women are juggling their civilian careers and families at the same time that they are going to fight for us.  They take all of these challenges in stride. I want them to know I am proud of them, Texas is proud of them, and America is proud of them.”

The 56th IBCT, which has approximately 3,200 soldiers, is made up of units from all over Texas including Weatherford, Fort Worth, Waco, Midland, El Paso, and Marshall.