Posted on 08/20/2007 1:10:32 PM PDT by mdittmar
After spending the last year fighting in Iraq, about 400 Colorado National Guard troops are home. The troops are part of the 2nd battalion, 135th aviation regiment. They were welcomed home at the Air Force Academy Sunday night.
The soldiers began arriving home last week, but they've only been able to spend limited time with their families. Sunday, they officially got to go home.
Sgt. 1st Class Blekis Clark is overjoyed to be back with her family.
"I left five children, four who are still at home. It was heart wrenching," said Clark.
Sunday it was nothing but hugs for mom, who they are so very proud of.
"I didn't realize how much she does until she was gone," said Clark’s husband Fernando.
Captain Brian Munsch is one of three soldiers from this battalion who was awarded a Purple Heart on this tour of duty.
"I had shrapnel to the left side of my body, all down my left leg and my left hand," Munsch said.
He's just glad he's back alive and well.
"It's just good to be home."
Cheers of joy for a group of very brave men and women who risked their lives for our freedom.
There were a total of almost 700 National Guard soldiers from six different states who deployed with this battalion. They all came home alive; this unit didn't lose a single soldier.
Welcome home, Heros!
True Heroes!!!! I stand in awe of their service for our country! God Bless them all.
Welcome home!
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