Governor Corzine Visits With Members of the 150th Assault Helicopter Battalion Before Their Departure To Iraq.

According to an entry on Governor Corzine's Facebook page today, he went to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, to visit with members of the 150th Assault Helicopter Battalion before their departure to Iraq.

“I am proud to command such a fine air and army guard and I am grateful for your sacrifice,” Governor Corzine told the citizen soldiers. “While you are focused on your mission and unit, know that this administration is deeply committed to caring for your families and also with working with your employers to make sure that your jobs will still be there upon your return home.”

Governor Corzine spent several hours meeting with the troops and personally saluted their professionalism and training. He also joined Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth to present several awards and commendations to guard members.

Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth, federal, state and local officials, employers of guardsmen, and military officials accompanied the Governor on the one-day visit to Ft. Sill.

By the look of the photos, it seems that the Governors surprise visit to the troops was well received and went smoothly.

Know let's all hope and pray that the mission of these fine men and women  of the 150th Assault Helicopter Battalion also goes well and that they all return home to their loved ones safe and sound. 

Caption: Governor Jon Corzine holds Zelene Diaz of Elmont, NY, left, and Luis Vanegas of Newark hands at the NJNG 1-150th Assault Helicopter Battalion Departure Ceremony with legislators, employers and family members at Fort Sill in Lawton, OK on Thursday, April 9, 2009. (Governor Photos/Tim Larsen)