Oregon Guardsmen welcomed back from Iraq

[unhappycamper]

Oregon Guardsmen welcomed back from Iraq
The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday May 4, 2008 8:47:02 EDT

WARRENTON, Ore. — Members of the Oregon National Guard’s 234th Engineer Company got a warm welcome home from Iraq Friday with cheers and an ovation from family, friends and students at Warrenton High School.

The company of 177 soldiers was in Iraq for 219 days working as a security escort for supply convoys.

Gov. Ted Kulongoski was joined by State Sen. Betsy Johnson of Scappoose, Adjutant Gen. of Oregon Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, 82nd Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Charles Yriarte. and 1249th Engineer Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Alaine Encabo.

“It is a great honor to be with you here today,” said Kulongoski. “On behalf of the people of Oregon, it is good to have you back in Oregon. I know they, as am I, are proud of your service to your state and your country.”

Each member of the National Guard company received a coin commemorating service in Iraq.


Rest of article at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/05/ap_oregonguardreturns_050308/