Two-Day Departure Send-Off Planned for 48th BCT

Before they leave for Iraq in mid-May, the Soldiers of the 48th Brigade Combat Team and their families will enjoy two days of activities that will include and a day-long family festival featuring top-named entertainment and a formal ceremony. 

Thousands of family members, employers and other supporters are expected to attend the send-off festivities scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 13 and 14. 

Friday’s festival will include carnival rides, food vendors, and concerts by the Georgia Guard’s 116th Army Band and the 530th Air Force Band. The Atlanta Thrashers and Hawks are scheduled to offer sports clinics including a hoops workshop former Hawks star Dominique Wilkins. Country music star and TV personality Billy Ray Cyrus will headline the evening concert. 

Saturday’s ceremony, scheduled to kick-off at 3:00 pm, is expected to be attended by senior military and political leaders including Governor Sonny Perdue. 

Support for the event is being provided by a cross section of Georgia DOD components including the Georgia State Defense Force and the Air National Guard.