Job security gives troops peace of mind

MIAMISBURG, Ohio (WDTN) - Sgt. Lloyd McIntosh spent the last few minutes before deployment holding his son and hugging his wife tightly.

This is the life of a military man. "I'm always a soldier," he said.

Sgt. McIntosh and his 159 fellow troops are all in the National Guard, which means they are leaving behind not just loved ones, but also school and jobs.

When not in uniform, McIntosh works for the City of Miamisburg in the Public Works Department.

In the crowd for the send-off 2 NEWS spotted his supervisors.

"We're proud of Lloyd," said Tim Young, Superintendent of the Miamisburg Public Works Department. "We're proud of the work he has does in the city and also his commitment to the United States and this deployment".

Young is a former serviceman himself. "I know the commitment. I know what's going through your head when you are getting ready to deploy. You are worried about your family. You are worried about yourself and your buddies".

That is why Young said the last thing McIntosh needs to be concerned with is whether or not he has a job when he comes back. "That's very important for his peace of mind and for his family's peace of mind".
    
Even though it is a federal law, losing their jobs is something many military men and women fear during deployment.
    
McIntosh said the city of Miamisburg's support will allow him to go and serve his country and focus on what's most important.

"Being safe is my number one goal and getting back home to my little one here is going to be very important," said Sgt. McIntosh.