LINDEN &045;&045; The 200th Engineering Battalion of Linden, which officially departed for war on Monday, didn’t go away quitely.

Hundreds poured into Linden Baptist Church, joining many state and federal leaders to give the unit a proper sendoff.

One such leader, U.S. Representative Artur Davis, said the display was a wonderful sign of progress.

Davis said the sacrifice the unit has made left him almost speechless.

Davis reminded the soldiers they were part of a proud tradition. Many times this nation has been confronted by adversity and each time a special group has answered the call.

Col. James C. Suttle Jr. pointed out just how special the men and women of the American military were. Suttle said only a few answer the call and this makes them a truly proud number.

MG Edwin H. Wright said he was confident the unit would stand by the proud tradition established for them.

Wright said it is difficult to let the soldiers know just how deeply they were appreciated. Wright added their sacrifice would have an enormous impact on future generations.

Wright said the company was in good hands and he knew they were under the best possible leadership.

MG Crayton M. Bowen said it would be difficult to leave their loved ones behind, but they were ready to answer the call. Bowen said there were many more just like them who had answered the call and they appreciated all the support.