CONTACT: Sgt First Class Michael Blass. 845 340-7107

FOR RELEASE: Sunday, Jun 22, 2008

ON SITE: Sgt First Class Michael Blass. 845 340-7107

WHO:

Seventy-nine members of the 104th MP Battalion who returned from Iraq on March 14, 2008 and their families.

WHAT:

The members of the 104th MP Battalion who served in Iraq for a year will be recognized for their service with a National Guard “Freedom Salute” ceremony on Sunday, June 22. An official welcome home and presentation of awards for service in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

WHEN:

11:00 a.m. June 22, 2008

WHERE:

Kingston Armory, 25 Kiersted Ave, Kingston New York

Coverage Opportunities: The event will be held in front of the armory, weather permitting. Members of the media will have an opportunity to talk with Soldiers and their families about their experience and coming back home. 104th MP Battalion: The 104th MPs provided base defense for Camp Bucca, one of the largest Forward Operating Bases and the largest detention facility in Iraq. The 104th has had significant impacts at Camp Bucca, including the coordination and command of more than 1,600 security patrols in Southern Iraq and $14 million in base defense improvements.