Home from Afghanistan....March 20, 2008 to March 10, 2009

[rayc50]

Hi, All! This is rayc50 and I promised to update when my son finally got home from Afghanistan. His unit is the 766th Combat Engineers out of Decatur, Illinois. He and 14 others were volunteers for the newly formed 766th EHCC (explosive hazards coordination cell). Commonly called "IED Hunters". This was the first unit of its kind to go into Afghanistan. There are two others in Iraq. The unit left Afghanistan on Feb. 28th and arrived back in Decatur yesterday at noon. I'm a vet myself, but I was totally humbled as these guys pulled into the parking lot on a chartered bus from Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, and dismounted. They were escorted by numerous police agencies and the patriot guard. Yep, the 'old man' here was crying...couldn't help it. Was sure glad to see him home safe. We've lost 3 Illinois soldiers over there in the last two weeks....two of them were local. Sure opens an old man's eyes! Anyone who doesn't appreciate what these guys and all our military is doing to protect us, definitely has a problem, and probably shouldn't be enjoying all the freedoms and luxuries they have. To anyone who has friends or relatives over there, pass along my appreciation. They definitely have my respect! And I say this with tears in my eyes.... God Bless All!! And thanks guys and gals for your support! rayc50

 

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[SC_hunter]

Ray...Tell your son we are all proud of him and glad he is home. My son in law is supposed to come in from Iraq(2nd tour) in June..then they say maybe September but still fingers crossed for June.

 

[rayc50]

Hey, Hunter! Yeah...I hope June too. I think they're keeping the guys in those countries too long in combat situations. I know they're doing good...but too long is too long. Tell him I said 'good luck'. Luck to you too. rayc50

 

[birdman]

I know you are excited about his return . Good stuff!! Tell him we all say thanks for his service and thank you for yours also.

 

[fossis]

I would have had 'tears in my eyes too', thanks for all they do, & glad they are home.

fossis............

 

[wreckdiver1715]

Congratulations on your sons return home! His service to our nation is deeply appreciated!

Tom

 

[swampfox]

just wantd to say a big THANK YOUfrom a fellow vet. i served in desert storm and i know what it is all about. so ireally appreiciate all the guys and gals who protect our country and our way of life. thanks and good luck to all who put their life on the line everyday. i will also be praying that all will come back safe. thanks again and may God bless everyone of u. swampfox

 

[wormhole]

Welcome Home Soldier
By Andrea Senter

Welcome home soldier
We finally get to say
You just don't know how good it is
To finally see your face
Welcome home son
We've missed your more each day
Please let our boy come home safe and soon
is what we'd often pray
Welcome home brother
You've filled our hearts with pride
The love we have for you right now
is something we just can't hide.
Welcome home soldier,
The journey's been tough and long
But you finally made it back to us,
back home where you belong.