On 21 April, 2007, the 218th Enhanced Separate Brigade conducted a departure ceremony at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi.

This ceremony marked the completion of the brigade's training at Camp Shelby and the start of movement to Afghanistan.

As the sounds of music and commands filled the air, the Brigade celebrated this milestone with a ceremony that traces its roots back to American and European battle formations. After the ceremony, families joined their soldiers on the field.

The brigade will be assuming command of Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix, which is charged with conducting the training of the Afghan National Army and the Afghan National Police as part of a coalition effort to assist the Nation of Afghanistan to establish and maintain the rule of law.  In doing so, these men and women are ensuring the freedom and safety of the People of the United States of America.

The many distingushed guests included Governor Mark Sanford and Congressmen Joe Wilson and J. Greshan Barrett.