2009 not a good year to be in the Oregon National Guard

Thousands of Oregon Guard troops to head to war

Nearly half the Oregon Army National Guard will leave for war in 2009, the most since World War II, with more than 3,000 departing by summer.

They will include men who fight wildfires, search and rescue teams that rescue stranded climbers and help communities overcome floods and freezes.

This month, all 12 of the Oregon Guards medical evacuation Black Hawk helicopters and 100 soldiers, best known for their dramatic interventions, will leave.

Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, the adjutant general who leads Oregons military and office of emergency management, said the state has reorganized emergency operations. Oregon also will turn to Washington, Idaho, Nevada and California for help.

“This is going to be a very demanding year for the Oregon Army National Guard,” Rees said.

Here’s a prayer that all of our Guardsmen come home save and sound!