The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Welcome Home!

by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher/Owner

11 January 2006

It is a joy to see more of our soldiers returning home from Iraq. Sunday morning, an aunt of a returning soldier called to let me know there was a caravan of supporters driving from the Moline airport to Oquawka where the town was greeting three or more who were almost home to their families in Oquawka after a year's service.

It was wonderful to see the reception these men were given with police and fire trucks and even an ambulance flashing their lights to welcome them home. Young and old were flying flags and cheering as they passed down main street. The following night a reception was held at the Eagles Club in Oquawka for family and friends of anyone who wanted to come, and the soldiers said they loved the support.

Their love for America, however, has deepened immensely and it seems the little things we take for granted, are no longer little things to them. I hope families and friends will let us know when soldiers arrive home so we can all help give each of them the "welcome home!" they deserve.