100 Return to AZ

Hundreds of family members and friends cheered and waved balloons, American flags and homemade "Welcome home" posters as 100 Arizona soldiers returned Sunday from a year's deployment in war-ravaged Afghanistan. The happy homecoming, marked by hugs, smiles and tears, occurred in a soaring National Guard airplane-maintenance hangar south of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport after a patient wait for the troops' flight from its stop in Fort Dix, N.J. It was the return of the Casa Grande-based A Company of the 422nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion of the Arizona Army National Guard.

For those who could not attend, it was simply awesome. Picture your Potentate, Past Potentates, Divan Members, and other Shriners (Ladies included), joining forces with the Patriot Guard Riders to make a Living flag line 100 strong. As the plane containing our men and women of the 422^nd approached the hangar, all the Bikes (formed in an “Honor Lane”) came to life, accompanied by the lights and sirens of the support vehicles. The ramp was placed, the door was opened, and 100 men & women deplaned. Once formed up, they dropped their packs as we all cheered. The hanger doors slowly opened, revealing a sea of fellow soldiers, families, and friends. As our Brother and sisters moved to embrace loved ones, the escort members withdrew a respectful distance to allow them a little elbow room. The “Controlled Chaos”, tears, cheers, and the flashing of cameras made for a memorable experience. Noble Keith Seplak (Lucky The Clown) was reunited with his Lady Teresa, Family, and Friends. Welcome Home to you!

What a great Day. What Great People.

God Bless America

Tom Sheldon