DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM
A new group of Kaneohe Marines left for Afghanistan yesterday from Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Jasmine Welsh, 13 months, and dad, Lance Cpl. John Welsh, shared a quiet moment.

DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM
Staff Sgt. Kevin Gonzalez gave daughter Gabrielle, 4, a kiss.

DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM
Sgt. Jairo Fredonis played with son Jonas, 18 months.

DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM
Parting proved hard yesterday as Katie White and her husband, Lance Cpl. Paul White, left, and Carisa Kraft and her husband, Gunnery Sgt. Roger Kraft, shared farewell hugs and kisses.