Seattle-based National Guard unit returning to Iraq later this year

The 81st Heavy Combat Brigade Team of the Washington National Guard — 2,900 men and women drawn from units statewide and based in Seattle — has received a call-up order for a second deployment to Iraq to begin later this year.

The deployment of the 81st Brigade will involve 12 months of active duty, and the reflects the reliance on citizen soldiers to maintain the U.S military presence in Iraq.

The brigade last deployed to Iraq in 2004-05, in what was then the largest Washington Guard mobilization since World War II. The brigade — reinforced by additional Guard soldiers from California — was involved in a wide range of security and other missions working out of bases in Balad, Baghdad and other areas of Iraq. Ten Guardsmen were killed during that tour of duty.

In the brigade's return to Iraq during the sixth year of the war, the soldiers are expected to be largely involved in security and force protection.

The extensive use of National Guard units in Iraq has taken a large toll on equipment, which was a cause of concern for Maj. Gen. Timothy Lowenberg, commander of the Washington National Guard, who joined other Guard leaders to press for more equipment.

Recently, Lowenberg said the current situation is "substantially better" and that the Army has been given authorization and funding by Congress to maintain the National Guard at a high state of readiness.

The 81st will deploy with weapons and communication equipment equal to what is issued to the active-duty Army. The brigade will receive vehicles and other unit equipment in Iraq.

Sgt. Carlos Lazo, an 81st Brigade medic and veteran of the 2004 battle of Fallujah, said he thought that his equipment during the first deployment was adequate, but he has seen significant improvements as he prepares for his second deployment.

"I am going to be missing my family, and everyone is going to be going through that," said Lazo, who came to America from Cuba in 1991. "But I feel proud to serve the country that welcomed me 17 years ago, and my company, which is like a family."

The 81st brigade was formed in 1968. It is headquartered in Seattle, and is the largest unit of the Washington National Guard. The Guard draws from a wide range of civilian occupations, including students, police, hospital workers, teachers and business people.

In a statement issued today, Gov. Christine Gregoire said she joined Washingtonians in wishing the 81st "Godspeed and a safe return, and in expressing my appreciation to their families for the support they provide their loved ones."

Seattle Times reporter Hal Bernton contributed to this story.