During the early morning hours on Friday, family members held on tight to their Connecticut National Guard soldiers as they embarked on a new mission.

“Very proud of him, excited, for him to venture out in the world and serve our country,” Maria Teixeira, of Ansonia, said.

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This is the first time that Teixeira is sending off her only son, Hector Rivera, for a year-long deployment, but serving in the military runs in the family.

“He followed in my dad's footsteps who served in Vietnam. It was very nerve-wrecking. He is my only child and I am very proud of him and just keep positive vibes and just anxious for him to get back home to me,” Teixeira said.

Antonio Lopez and his family gathered in prayer to wish their bel

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