KINGSFORD -- The 1432nd Engineering Company of the Army National Guard conjoined in Kingsford bright and early on Monday to head out for part one of training at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center.

Over 180 soldiers geared up with their boots strapped and bags packed for the first stage of Operation Enduring Freedom, a 12-month tour in Afghanistan.  Their training will last until May 1 and focus on tactics, techniques, and procedures to be utilized overseas.

"A lot of guys are...they're anxious, nervous, scared, could be a factor, but all-in-all I think they all wanna' get ready and get going and get to their job," said 1SG David Rye, 1423rd Eng. Co.  "I'm very proud of these guys, and I'll do my best to bring them all home."

Once their training at Camp Grayling is complete they will return for one last hoorah before leaving for their tour.