Personnel services unit returns from yearlong tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom

The National Guard ^ | Dec 5, 2005 | Spc. Benjamin Cossel

[SandRat]

GROVEPORT, Ohio (12/5/2005) — "This has been the longest year of my life. I finally get my life back...I finally get my baby back," said a tearful Nancy Marquez as she sat eagerly awaiting her Soldier’s entrance; her wait was just about over.

Marquez’s son, Spc. Justin Marquez, as well as 29 other Soldiers from the Ohio Army National Guard’s 237th Personnel Services Battalion were celebrated as heroes during a welcome home ceremony Dec. 4 at Groveport Madison High School.

Loud cheers and applause went up as the Soldiers filed in and took their place of honor at the front of the auditorium.

With the Soldiers arrival, the ceremony could officially begin. The unit was mobilized in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in October 2004.

During his remarks, Maj. Gen. Gregory L. Wayt, Ohio Adjutant General, cited just some of the unit’s accomplishments while deployed forward in a theater of war.

“During their time deployed, the 237th delivered over 50 million pounds of mail,” Wayt said. “In addition, they reduced the delivery time of that mail by 25 percent from an average of 16 days to 12.”

Wayt went on to note that the 237th PSB was recommended for a Meritorious Unit Commendation, for their actions while deployed.

Among the distinguished guests who spoke at the ceremony, state Rep. Larry Wolpert, offered a touching reminder of those who never came home and the gratitude he feels for all members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

“I’m an avid cyclist,” Wolpert said. “One day I was out in Plain City, during my ride I happened to notice a fresh grave. I stopped and walked over to it. The tombstone read ‘Killed in Action in Iraq.’ Everyday, out of respect, I stop by that grave; I want to extend the same respect and appreciation to each and every one of you.”

While deploying takes it toll on the Soldiers involved, it also exacts its costs on the family and friends of deployed service members.

Lt. Col. Steve Stivers, 237th Personnel Services Battalion commander, noted that his Soldiers would not have been able to complete their mission without the love and support that flowed from back home. Adding to those comments, Wayt had the returning Soldiers stand and face their families in the audience.

“You owe these people a round of applause and thank you,” Wayt said. “The citizens of Ohio, and indeed this great nation, are thankful for the sacrifices you have made while your Soldiers were away.”

But all the words, pomp and circumstance were keeping Nancy Marquez from her son.

“All I want is to see my baby,” she said.

Joining Nancy were Justin’s brother, Jason, and his wife, Nancy, and their 8-month son, Tomas.

“Justin will finally get to spend some time with his nephew,” Jason said.

Wiping the tears from her eyes, Nancy thought the timing of her son’s homecoming was perfect.

“This is the greatest Christmas ever, to know he’s home and safe. A mother just couldn’t ask for much more.”

[SandRat]

Debi McGonagill attaches a lapel pin to her husband, Capt. Phillip McConagill of the 237th Personnel Services Battalion, during a welcome home for the unit’s Soldiers, who were deployed overseas for a year in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (Photo by Spc. Benjamin Cossel, 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

[SandRat]

WOO-HOO!!!!

[StarCMC]

*sniff*

Thanks SandRat!!

[BeAllYouCanBe]

Debi McGonagill attaches a lapel pin to her husband, Capt. Phillip McConagill

It appears that this soldier had a lot to come home to.

Let's hope that all of these soldiers have an equally good time. Thanks for your sacrifices 237 for your year away and missing your families lives to keep the Army running!!

[E.G.C.]

BTTT