Some Connecticut National Guard members got a patriotic sendoff in Waterbury Thursday before they ship out to Iraq.

About 70 members of the 143rd Combat Support Battalion say they are ready to serve their country. They leave for Fort Dix, New Jersey Tuesday where they will receive additional training. The soldiers will provide support and supplies to military members on the front lines.

One military husband at the Waterbury ceremony says he is concerned about how he will run his home while his wife is gone, but he believes the Iraq war is a worthy fight. The battalion commander is letting guard members off early Sunday so they can enjoy Father?s Day.