"This is the first M777 battery to deploy to Iraq, so we're looking forward to the experience," said Lt. Col. James C. Lewis, 3/11 battalion commander. "We can't wait to see how the capability is employed and we'll take lessons learned for future deployments if necessary."

An awkward feeling of gloom and excitement hung over the Combat Center Monday as India Battery said goodbye to their friends and families.

"I'm really sad," said Lindsey Ledbetter, wife of Cpl. Tyler Ledbetter, artilleryman, India Battery, 3/11. "I'll probably cry when he says goodbye to our daughter. It's very depressing he's leaving, but I'm very proud of him."

Ledbetter agreed with his wife, but said he's been waiting a long time to go to Iraq.

"It's going to be hard leaving my wife and daughter behind, but I'm really excited to get this show on the road," he said. "Chesty Puller!"

Sgt. Trevar Perkins, fire direction control man, India Battery, 3/11, also expressed his excitement to deploy to Iraq. He said he felt the message should be short and to the point.

"Let's do this," he said.

Overall, it seemed the Marines and sailors of India Battery were excited to deploy to Iraq, but would miss their friends and families.

"I'm excited, but I just want to go over there and come home as soon as possible," said Cpl. Matthew Beaudin, fire direction control man, India Battery, 3/11. "I want to come home to my family and move on to other things."