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951ST BACK HOME
Monday, November 23rd, 2009 -- 9:37 am
Posted by Riley Hebert-News Director
A National Guard unit headed by a Neillsville man made its return home Saturday.
Members of the 951st Engineer Company from Rhinelander and Tomahawk received a hero's welcome at the Rhinelander high school fieldhouse Saturday afternoon after its 10-month mission in Afghanistan.
The crowd gave the troops a 2-minute standing ovation.
"I could tell you about all the statistics about the missions completed, the roads cleared or the IEDs neutralized, but what I'm going to tell you is these sappers, under some of the toughest circumstances, performed honorably and always in a professional manner," Capt. Brian Barth told those in attendance.
One mission clearing roads lasted 54 continuous hours in rugged terrain, he noted.
Barth says the separation means the families and soldiers will need some time.
"It will take some time for the soldiers and their families to reintegrate. I ask them both to be patient, and if need be, seek help," he said.
Finally, Barth acknowledged Sgt. Ryan Adams of Rhinelander who was killed in action.
"Lastly, Sgt, Ryan Adams, you and your family will always be in our thoughts and our memories."
The 951st Engineer Company earned more than 200 awards or medals including 100 Combat Action Badges and 15 Purple Heart medals.
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