Minnesota National Guard Sends Soldiers For Border Patrol

The Minnesota National Guard said it will deploy about 200 soldiers to help prevent illegal immigrants from crossing the border with Mexico. Soldiers from units in Albert Lea and Rochester will be sent to New Mexico for a three-week rotation, as part of Operation Jump Start. About 80 of the soldiers are from D Company, 2nd Battalion, 135th Infantry, based in Albert Lea. They are scheduled to leave on Sunday.Another 120 soldiers are leaving Jan. 20 from the Rochester-based B Company, 2nd Battalion, 135th Infantry. After arriving in New Mexico, the Guard members will receive five days of training. The Minnesota Air National Guard already has 26 airmen on duty supporting Operation Jump Start.