"Guardians of the Western Gate" deploy for Afghanistan

Ashland, Ore — An emotional evening for hundreds of families after saying goodbye to loved ones serving in the Oregon National Guard.

Nearly 300 Oregon men and woman are now headed to Afghanistan after a mobilization ceremony in Ashland.

Known as the Guardians of the Western Gate, the 1-186th Infantry Regiment is part of a historic brigade dating back to World War One.

At a mobilization ceremony heir families got to say goodbye as the brave men and women of the Oregon national guard deploy overseas.

The 1-186th infantry regiment of the Oregon National Guard stands at attention and 21-year-old Private First Class Trevor Simpson stands with them.

“I’m glad I’m finally here, I’m glad it’s finally happening, the ball’s rolling so I’m excited,” said Simpson.

Simpson holds a flag of the ‘Guardians of the Western Gate’, the Oregon National Guard 41st Infantry Brigade.

“You have one per company, and it represents the company’s honor and professionalism,” said Simpson.

Joined by his family and girlfriend – this is the last time they’ll see each for at least a year.

“Today is our day with him so, it’s a great day,” said Simpson’s father Tom Simpson.

Simpson is on his way to serve his first tour in Afghanistan with the Oregon National Guard.

Nearly 300 others will go with him as they came together Friday for their mobilization ceremony in Ashland.

I’m proud of him, I’m scared, I want him to come back safe, body and mind,” said Simpson’s mother Tonya Simpson.

“I’m going to miss my family a lot, I’m going to miss my girl a lot, just too many emotions to list,” said Simpson.

These Oregon soldiers will be some of the last to serve in Afghanistan as president Obama begins to draw down troop numbers.

“Love you Trev, stand tall and proud, do your thing, come home,” said Tom Simpson.

The Simpsons say they are proud, as the Guardians of the Western Gate go marching on to serve their mission.

The 1-186th infantry regiment will head to Fort Hood Texas to prepare for their departure to Afghanistan once there they’ll offer support and security in Kabul.