WHO: Sixteen-member Embedded Training Team; leadership of the New Jersey National Guard; supporters, family and troops

WHAT: Departure Ceremony

WHEN: Thursday, September 20 at 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: Joint Training & Training Development Center, Fort Dix, N.J.

DETAILS: Departure ceremony will be held for the sixteen-member Embedded Training Team (ETT) leaving for Afghanistan.  The ETT mission performed by the New Jersey team is designed to provide experienced US Army mentors and advisors to the Afghan National Army (ANA) in an effort to build a professional army for the country of Afghanistan.  These Soldiers will be living and traveling with their Afghan counterparts as they advise, mentor, and coach army leaders and soldiers in tactical and technical subjects.  The one-year deployment is part of Operation Enduring Freedom.  The ceremony will include the presentation of a guidon (military unit flag) to the team.

Media wishing to attend this event must call (609) 530-6942 by 3 p.m. on Wednesday, September 19 and arrive at the Fort Dix Visitor's Center (Route 68 gate) at 12:30 p.m. for escort onto the base.