BANGOR – Soldiers from the U.S. Army Reserve’s 2nd Battalion, 304th Regiment of Bangor, are preparing to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The number of troops affected was not available Thursday.

The unit is conducting a farewell ceremony at 1 p.m. today at the Armed Forces Reserve Center at 300 Hildreth St. The community is invited to attend.

“I am very proud of our soldiers for their willingness to serve our great country, as well as for their technical skills and expertise,” Maj. John Curwen, battalion commander, said in a written statement. “This will be an opportunity for them to apply the training the Army has given them and make a difference in Iraq. I am confident our mission will be successful and that all of our soldiers will return safely.”

The soldiers, who volunteered for active duty overseas, were selected because they are qualified Army trainers and drill sergeants whose mission is to conduct basic combat training.

The soldiers involved will be serving in a variety of positions, according to an announcement issued late Thursday afternoon by the U.S. Army Reserve Center in Bangor.