Friends and families said farewell to a team of space support Soldiers from the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/U.S. Army Forces Strategic Command (standing at left) who recently deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. They are replacing a team scheduled to return soon from a one-year tour. The team is made up of members of the Colorado Army National Guard’s 117th Space Support Battalion, part of the 1st Space Brigade. "The 117thSpace Support Battalion has had a constant presence in Operation Iraqi Freedom since the war began," said Lt. Col. Donald Laucirica, battalion commander. "For some of these Soldiers it is their second tour. This is a fairly common occurrence for the Colorado Army National Guard." Laucirica praised the Colorado Guard and the 1st Space Brigade for their support in the train up period before the team deployed. "This team is ready thanks to the efforts of a lot of people. We also have a very strong Family Support Group for this team. Their families will be well cared for during their tour," he said. (U.S. Army photo)