The small escort group that met at the border to bring this last group of soldiers home waited with anticipation. For a minute there I thought there was going to be a free for all when Tim Leonhardt broke out just one jelly filled donut in the middle of 4 St. Paul cops and 4 state patrol, but luckily they had already ate. The bus arrived at 10:45am and I jumped on board and yelled, welcome home......they gave me their call......whooaah! I asked if they wanted to get off for a quick smoke or bathroom break and they paused and then quickly filed off for a quick break. Within 3 minutes all 13 soldiers were back on board and they were more then ready to roll, and the way we went. 1 MN State Patrol motorcycle Trooper , 3 St. Paul motorcycle cops, and 2 State Patrol squads escorted us all the way to the armory. Needless to say traffic for us was not an issue!

At the armory Deb and Gene Abel had 42 waiting Patriot Guard members along with many family and Friends waiting to see their heroes! When we rolled in with lights and sirens the sight was beautiful with the sea of American flags and all the people there to greet these heroes. As they filed off the bus they ran to their loved ones for that long awaited embrace and kiss and to hold their children. At that point I noticed Deb had to put her sunglasses back on as the tears were rolling. I think everyone standing there felt the same thing, what a sight to see these families reunite. After most were gone we broke the flagline down and as Deb and I were standing by this little girl of about 8yrs old she looked over at us and said, "thank you for bringing my daddy home" I told her she was welcome and to give him lots of hugs.......I'm glad I still had my glasses on cause that brought more water in my eyes.

Deb and I want to thank everyone for being there, we had a couple new members as well. As you all can see how much it means to these soldiers for us to show them support and you did just that! We could not do it without you and we are so proud to stand with you, thanks for doing the right thing!

Also a big thanks to the St. Paul Motor Patrol, MN State motor Patrol, and the MN State Patrol for their assistance in escorting us to the armory.

(@) PGR National Thread

Jeff & Deb Good
NE Metro Ride Captains