UNITY (AP) — There’s no need for a Maine soldier who’s deploying to Afghanistan to send letters home to his mother. That’s because she’s deploying at the same time — and in the same unit.

Spc. Andrew Parker and his mother, Spc. Holly Parker, expect to deploy soon with the Maine National Guard. Andrew Parker told WABI-TV that it’s “comforting” and Holly Parker called it a “source of pride.”

The two from Unity are among nearly 200 soldiers from the 133rd Engineering Battalion deploying in August.

Sgt. 1st Class Randal Parker, father and husband, said he’s used to being the one leaving for deployment. He said he’s happy they’ll have each other while on duty in a foreign land.