Editor
Cheers rang out as Lt. Col. Greg Hapgood, Iowa National Guard Public Affairs Officer, announced at 5:25 p.m. that the members of Co. C, 2nd Battalion, 147th Aviation had left Des Moines and were headed for Boone.
More than 50 soldiers from the unit, who have been stationed in Iraq since September 2006, arrived in Boone Thursday evening aboard six Blackhawk helicopters. They landed at the Boone DMACC campus around 6 p.m.
One soldier arriving was Eric Nelson, of Madrid. His family, including wife Megan and his friends anxiously awaited his arrival - all were wearing "Team Nelson" t-shirts.
"It's been a big challenge," said Megan of Eric's deployment. "I can hardly stand the wait."
She said her husband is a big Iowa State fan who is excited about being home in time for the Iowa, Iowa State game this weekend.
"We have season tickets and I'm sure he is happy he is going to get to be there to sit in his seat," she said.
Once the soldiers landed in Boone they were escorted to the DMACC gymnasium for their official welcome home ceremony.
Iowa Gov. Chet Culver was one of several dignitaries present to honor the unit.
"Let me tell you how honored I am to say welcome home," he said. "You served your state and nation with distinction and honor. We're proud of your service."
Boone Mayor John Slight also spoke.
"As mayor of Boone, it's an honor for me to be here today," he said. "Boone is proud of you. You served your country proud."
Each dignitary who spoke not only thanked the soldiers for their sacrifice, but they thanked the soldiers' friends and families for their sacrifice as well.
"You are our greatest treasure," said Maj. Gen. Ron Dardis. "You are serving your state and nation also. One thing is for sure, deployments change soldiers but they also change families."
He commended the troop for their hard work while deployed.
"You performed your mission in an outstanding manner," said Dardis. "You raised the bar for those who will follow you. I commend you for your outstanding and successful deployment. I want you to know you are all heroes and today we salute you."
Possibly sensing the anxiety in the room to see their loved ones, the soldiers were dismissed as family and friends raced over to greet, hug and kiss them for the first time since January 2006.
"It feels awesome to be home," said Sgt. Kevin Rinke, of Urbandale. "It's all about family and the sacrifices they make."
Rinke is a father of four - Alyssa, Megan, Ryan and Zach.
"My sacrifice doesn't compare to the one they make," he said.
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