SPRINGFIELD -- A couple hundred patriotic citzens showed up for a parade on the Effingham County Courthouse square Friday.

Georgia Army National Guard Armory 1-118th FA, Alpha Battery, was sent off with applause, short speeches and prayers. Many of the well wishers donned red, white and blue and waved America flags.

The unit is on its way to Afghanistan.

See the Dec. 26 edition of the Effingham Herald for more details.