Iowa National Guard members return from Iraq

The signs displayed outside of the Des Moines Area Community College gymnasium said it all Saturday, May 16, as friends, loved ones and supporters waited for their soldiers to arrive.
"Welcome Back Daddy," one read. "I love my Uncle Joey," another one stated. Casual conversations took place as people continuously craned their heads to keep an eye out for the busses of soldiers that were scheduled to arrive.
As the Patriot Guard Riders arrived on motorcycle, the excitement began. Cheers, tears and smiles came across the faces of the crowd, with the busses following shortly behind.
Our troops are home.
Company B, 248th Aviation Support Battalion of the Iowa National Guard was greeted with a homecoming ceremony Saturday in the DMACC gymnasium, with remarks by Boone mayor John Slight, Gov. Chet Culver, and commander of the Iowa National Guard Brig. Gen. Timothy Orr, among others.
"As the Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard, I am thankful for the sacrifices you have made for our state and for our country," Culver said. "The time in harm's way and away from loved ones is testament to your dedication to the citizens of Iowa and to the United States. I have seen up-close the exceptional bravery of Iowans who wear the uniform of the Iowa National Guard, and so I want to thank you for your commitment to the country that we all love."
Mayor John Slight, like the rest of the speakers, kept his remarks short to allow the soldiers to be reunited with family and friends quickly.
"As mayor of Boone, it's an honor for me to be here today and I personally thank you for serving our country and the sacrifices you have made," Slight said. "The city of Boone is proud of you. I have always been a strong supporter of our military and what it stands for. I'm proud to live in a community where the National Guard has such a huge presence. The freedom we continue to enjoy is because of people like you who give us so much to serve our country."
Company B, 248th Aviation Support Battalion deployed to Fort Sill, Okla. June 5 of last year for post mobilization training before heading into the Iraq theater in mid-August.
The unit was stationed at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, located approximately 40 miles north of Baghdad.

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