As the United States turns over control of Iraq's cities to Iraqi forces, several hundred Texas National Guard soldiers based at the Bryan Armory are preparing to deploy there.

Headquarters for the 72nd Brigade are in Houston, but the brigade also has units in Bryan, Huntsville, San Antonio, Beaumont and Weslaco.

If the entire brigade is deployed this fall as planned, it would be one of the single largest deployments in Texas National Guard history, since World War II.

Three and a half years ago, CSPD Officer Chuck Clayton took an oath to serve and protect. One weekend a month he wears a different uniform.

"I've been in the military about five-and-a-half years," said Clayton.

This fall, Clayton will be joining thousands of other members of the Texas National Guard's 72nd Brigade who will likely deploy to Iraq. Just as he does every day at his civilian job, Clayton will be wearing a pendant from his girlfriend.

"It's cut in half and she's got the other half," said Clayton.

However, Clayton's girlfriend will be wearing something else.

"He did very good," said Kelsie Cox, showing off a ring on her left hand.

Chuck proposed two weeks ago.

"I got down and asked her and she was completely surprised," said Clayton.

"I kind of expected it," said Cox. "I wouldn't have it any other way, I love him very much."

The couple will have to endure an engagement half a world apart.

"It's stressful because I know I probably won't get to talk to him for awhile 'til they get situated over there and not talking to him will be very hard," said Cox.

Until deployment, Clayton and Cox are cherishing the moments they have.

"I know our unit is stressing that real big right now, to spend as much time with families as you can," said Clayton.

Soon, Clayton won't be the only one making sacrifices in the name of service to the country.

"That's brave, I could never do something like that," said Cox. "I just really admire him, he is my hero."

Army officials said the draw-down of U.S. Troops could affect the number of soldiers deployed from the 72nd Brigade, and that it's possible some could be sent to Afghanistan.