34th MP Company Stillwater armory Welcome home

We gathered at the staging area on a cold drizzly damp afternoon with over 60 Patriot Guard members present. Deb and I were very pleased to see the great turn out despite the fact the big game was scheduled at about the same time.......but we won't talk about that.. : (

We walked to the armory and set up our flagline with the anticipation of the bus load of troops coming home. At about 6:30pm we could hear the sirens of Police cars escorting the bus thru Stillwater working their way to the armory. Within minutes the bus rounded the corner to the armory to behold the site of American flags and a cheering crowd. The soldiers exited the bus with cheers and thank yous from the crowd as they made their way to the assembly area.

Once inside they had their final formation before being dismissed to embrace their loved ones. Several of the Patriot Guard had entered the Assembly area to form a flagline behind them and their families. We watched the joyful sight of spouse's, children, family members and friends all hugging and kissing their returning heroes, it was great to see.

Then something happened that none of us expected, two family members turned and faced us as were standing there holding our flags and they began to clap. Soon all the families and soldiers were clapping as they wanted to show their appreciation for the MN Patriot Guard. I am sure many of you felt the way Deb and I did, it was not all expected and we were the ones that wanted to thank them. But I have said this before and will say it again, it means so much to the troops and their families to see the support we all give them so please never forget, this is why you do what you do.

Thanks Tim, Joe, Wink, and Slick for your help.

(@) Channel 5 story

Jeff & Deb Good
NE Metro Ride Captains