Sgt. Walkup prepares for Army deployment

Army National Guard Sgt. Shannon M. Walkup has been mobilized and activated at Joint Base Dix-McGuire-Lakehurst, N.J., in preparation for deployment to serve in support of either Operation New Dawn or Operation Enduring Freedom. The soldier is a member of the 131st Transportation Company, based in Williamstown, Pa.

The soldiers are normally activated from Army Reserve or Army National Guard units from throughout the U.S. They go through a series of in-processing procedures and training classes that prepare them for skills and situations they may face in their deployed environment.

Walkup, a motor transport operator, has served in the military for 10 years.

She is the daughter of John and Faith O'Brien of E. Elm St., Tamaqua.

Walkup is a 2000 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School.