Virginia Soldiers Come Home

Most of us have seen the joyous hugs and enthusiastic applause that often greet the men and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. For the men and women returning from the challenges of serving far from home and in harm's way, I can't imagine anything better than having their families and friends their to greet them when they get back to their communities.

I wonder how much different this week has started for the men and women waking up in their own homes within reach of their loved ones? Do they find it difficult at first to put the demands of war behind them? How many of them actually want to talk about it or share their thoughts with those who have never experienced anything like the wars in Iraq or Afghanistan? Do they get caught up in or affected by the problems here in America?

Perhaps, the comforts of home and support of family are enough to make at least the first few weeks full of happy moments. I sure hope they enjoy a period of peace before tackling the demands of every day life in America.

On Friday, about 150 members of the Virginia National Guard's Leesburg-based C Company, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team arrived at their home armory. 9 NEWS NOW covered their arrival. Read Gary Reals story or watch his report for more on the soldiers' homecoming from Iraq.

On Saturday, approximately another 150 Virginia National Guard soldiers returned to the Woodstock armory after also serving in Iraq since September. 9 NEWS NOW had reported on their departure for training and deployment last June. I couldn't be happier that all members of the Woodstock-based B Company, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team are back home with their families.

Sgt. Jim Sparks was able to see his daughter, Valerie, dressed up for her prom. He'll remain on active duty for awhile before returning to his job as a Fairfax County detective. I know his wife, Carla, and two other children, James and Eve, are enjoying quality time with him.

Ed Lovell's two sons, Seth and Eli were greeted with kisses from their wives. I find these photo's on Ed's blog. You can read more about the services of his sons and their return.

Marion Butterworth's son, Tyler, is also taking advantage of being home after a long bus ride from Camp Shelby, Mississippi. I hope to share more on these soldiers' stories in the near future.