12 Minnesota Guard soldiers to depart for Afghanistan

St. Paul, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota National Guard holds a send-off Friday for 12 soldiers deploying to Afghanistan.

The troops will serve with the Croatian Armed Forces to support the Afghan National Army in the northern half of the country.

It's the second time Minnesota National Guard troops have partnered with Croatian troops. Part of their mission is to help build up the Afghan military.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty and First Lady Mary Pawlenty will participate in the deployment ceremony at the Cedar Street Armory in St. Paul.