Today was the day 65 soldiers and their families had been waiting for:  They’re back home from Iraq.

The 150th Aviation Battalion of the West Virginia National Guard touched down this afternoon after having spent the past year on active duty.  One soldier’s family had the Christmas tree up and the stockings hung for him.  Others were introduced to babies born while they were away.  All were shedding tears of joy and relief.

I happened to be heading out on an errand just as the caravan was leaving the airport, which is one hill over from my house.  I saw the people gathered along the roadway, holding flags and signs.  I heard the horns blaring as the soldiers’ vehicles by oncoming traffic.  And I saw the smiles — wide, toothy smiles — from those greeting loved ones and from the people who, like me, just happened to be in the neighborhood.

I can’t even begin to know what those brave young men and women saw, heard, and felt while they were serving their country in a war-ravaged region, nor do I fully appreciate the worry, pain, and frustration their families felt in their absence.  But I do know I’m proud of them.  And I’m glad they’re safely home.  God Bless You, 150th!  Well Done!