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Brought to you by
Rose of Sharon Ministries

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Let’s welcome home these brave heroes in A Hero’s Welcome Style!!!

Most recent postings at the top
Click on Thumbnails for full-sized images

For 2009 and 2010 Postings, see Events Archives.

Check in often to see what's going on with the project.

2011

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WELCOME HOME
SR. AIRMAN JASON THOMAS,
U.S.A.F. Wyomissing, PA
12/31/11

Kim Thomas, mother of Senior Airman Jason Thomas requested a welcome home and escort of her son. This will be the first time in three years that Jason will be home for Christmas.

"I would love for him to be honored for his dedication and sacrifice for our GREAT COUNTRY. I can't think of anyone better to honor him than his family, friends, and Warriors Watch."

Kim witnessed a recent Welcome Home and wants to do one just about exactly like it.

This will be for 12/31/11 can you think of a better way to end the year?

More info to follow.

RC- TraceyLee Thanks for stepping up

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12/31/11 SHORT NOTICE
Mug n Hug for Vietnam Vet
Sgt. Leroy Acker, U.S.M.C.
Prospect Park, PA

We have been asked by one of our own members Dan O'Kane if we could help pull off a long over due Welcome and Mug-n-Hug for this Hero, as you can see from his bio he is truly another American Hero that deserves a welcome home well you know we said we could help and we will. Requesting a LONG OVERDUE welcome home, Mug And Hug for my neighbor and friend, Sgt. Leroy K. Acker, USMC. I have cleared this mission with his wife and son, Kenny, who is a member also of WWR. AKA, " DOC ".

Short bio:

Sgt. Leroy Acker, USMC, HqCo. RLT -26 FMF Pa. Enlisted 10 June, 1964. Shipped to Camp Schwab, Okinawa March 16, 1967. In country on demand; Arrived home April 1968. Honorable Discharge May 16, 1968. Service Medals: National Defense Service Medal. Vietnam Service Medal w/*. Vietnam Campaign medal w/device; Good conduct Medal1st award and 2nd award Meritorious Mast; Roy was stationed at Parris Island right out of boot camp. Married and welcomed his son, Kenny, at Beaufort Naval Hospital on Oct. 29, 1956, NAVY DAY

Date: Sat. Dec. 31, 2011
Rally Point: Interboro High School parking lot, 500 16th Ave. Prospect Park, PA 19076
Rally Time: 11 am
KSU: 12:00 noon
Final Destination: Norwood Pa.

RC For this mission will be Capt' Dan Sgt. Leroy K. Ackers very good friend, neighbor and WWR member. Thank you Dan for stepping up.

**********

These are late but we want to post them.

WELCOME HOME
AUSTIN LEACH, U.S. ARMY
December 30th 

From Austin's mom:

My son Austin Leach will return home from Iraq on Friday, December 30th. I would like for you to come to my house and line my street. My daughter will pick my son up at the airport and drop him at the end of the block so that he can walk through "His welcome home committee". Please let me know if this is possible and thank you Very Much!!!!

Well of course we can Mrs Brooks! It'll be our honor to be Austin ’s WELCOME HOME COMMITTEE!!!

Austin has, since he was a small child, wanted to join the military so when it came time and he did join, we (nor anyone else) were the least bit surprised. He enlisted for 8 years and is in the 1-229th Avn. Rgmt. stationed at Fort Hood, Tx. He currently is a helicopter mechanic and is interested in flying, infantry and joining the airborne. He left for Iraq in June and returned to Texas on Thursday. He is currently in de-briefing and will be "released" to come home for a 25 day leave on Friday. He will return to Hood on Jan. 23 (7 days before he turns 21) and then will be stationed in Afghanistan for an unknown period. Austin enjoys shooting darts (we had the local dart league ship them boards, darts, etc. while in Iraq )


Austin's Father, Bob Brookes, is an Army Vietnam drafted vet (1968 - 1971). 
His Uncle Russell Brookes (Brother to Bob - same Vet history as Bob - One came home, one left). 

Their father Arthur Brookes was also in the Army in WW2. dec'd
His Uncle Rick Keller (my bro. - is a Marine Vietnam Vet (same time period). 
Grandfather, Bruce Erdman (my dad Army (1959 - 1961). 
Uncle Ron Erdman (Grandfather's brother - Army Vietnam vet - 1962-1964) - dec'd
Aunt Karen Laricks (my sis. was in the Air Force)
Aunt Kathy Keller (my twin sis. was in the Army).
Cousin Jeremy Naussner currently serving in the Army stationed at Fort Drum, NY


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12/30/11 Funeral Escort for Air Force Veteran
Terry Thomas

12/30/11 Funeral Escort for Air Force Veteran Terry Thomas/Ephrata, PA
Warrior's Watch Riders was contacted by Shelly Gibson in regards to the passing of her father.

Shelly writes: "Warrior's Watch Riders recently did a Mug-N-Hug for my son, Richard Gibson on December 11, 2011. This past Sunday, December 18, 2011, my father, Terry Thomas, passed away from a massive stroke. I was hoping that the Warrior's Watch Riders would be able to be present at his service, which is being held December 30, 2011, at the Church of the Nazarene."

The Warrior's Watch Riders would be honored Shelly, to escort your dad, whom is also US Air Force.
Mr. Thomas served as a Airman 3rd Class, from 6/57 - 1/60. Served in Greenland in a Combat Support Group; Discharged honorably from the 380th Field Support.

Escort will be from the family home to the Church of Nazarene, 110 Durlach Road, Ephrata, PA, approximately 5 miles. 

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From: Maria <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Sunday, December 25, 2011 10:26 PM

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Thank you for your help this year welcoming home our Heroes,
I look forward to seeing you in 2012.
Remember, we can’t be sure our Troops Get the Proper
Welcome Home without YOU! 
Please, consider bringing a friend or two on
the next welcome home. 

12/27/11 WELCOME HOME
SR. AIRMAN SEAN MARTIN, U.S.A.F.

We have been contacted by Trish Lee, if that name sounds familiar we just welcomed home her daughter Sr. Airman Patti Lee. Well we made such an impact to their family that they would like us to try and show Sr. Airman Sean Martin the same appreciation. Sean is down in NC and on his way up for the holidays. His mom and dad are with him now in NC and will be saying good bye there. What Sean doesn’t know is that he will be surprised by the WWR and family with our ever popular Mug-n-Hug at a local eatery. So lets get out and show Sean how much what he has sacrificed means to us and his country.
Sean will be going back to Afghanistan after his holiday R&R.

Bio to Follow:

Date: 12/27
Rally location: CVS Pharmacy
3780 Main Street
Philadelphia Pa 19127
Phone# 215-508-3607
Rally time: 6:30 PM
KSU: 7:00 PM
Final Destination: Manayunk Brewing Co. for Mug-n-Hug

RC for this mission will be “Tamale” Thanks Pat for once again stepping up to the task.

A Hero's Welcome Home 12/26/11
Marine LCpl Daniel Croak

A Hero’s Welcome and the Warriors' Watch Riders have received a request from Kathleen Croak to help her family Welcome Home her son Marine LCpl. Daniel Croak upon his safe return from Afghanistan!

From Kathleen:

“Hello, My son is a US Marine who just returned from Afghanistan after a 7 month deployment. He is coming to our hometown this Monday December 26. He and his wife are driving up from Camp Lejeune NC to Pennsylvania. They are leaving NC around 5 am which should put them home around 1:30-2 pm. I think what you do is so awesome I would love to have this for him.

While my son was away in Afghanistan I started a socks for soldiers collection and collected over 20,000 pairs of white boot socks for our soldiers.

We are so proud of all our men and women who serve our country. Thank You for all you do”

Let's show this Marine and his family how much we appreciate their sacrifice for Our Country!

Bio

Daniel has been a Marine since January 2010. He is assigned to the 2nd LAR and his MOS is Infantry.
This was the first deployment, and he was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon, Global war on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Medal, Sea Service Deployment Medal, National Defense Service Medal, NATO Medal, ISAF Afghanistan.

Daniel graduated from Council Rock High School South Class of 2003 and his special interests are snowboarding and Hockey. He is married to Leah Fountas-Croak. Parents: Kathleen and George Croak. Brother Matthew and Sister Jennifer.

For More info: call Maria 610-327-2916

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Late Notice
We will honor
PFC Jacob L. Brubaker Escobar

We can never say "Thank You" enough!......God Bless!

Welcome Home to show our support for his service. This returning vet was best friends with Pfc. John Kihm, KIA Afghanistan April 19, 2011 so lets get out there and show our support for this Medic and Hero.

Short Bio:

PFC Jacob L. Brubaker Escobar is a Combat Field Medic was in Afghan from April 2011 until Nov 2011 he has been stationed in Bamberg Germany since Jan 2010. PFC Brubaker took Basic in Fort Benning GA and has been in since 2009.

Note from Mom :
First thing he wants is a Yuengling Beer and a Philly Cheese Steak! 

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UPDATE

There was a delay in leaving the theater. The unit arrived on American soil TODAY. The entire unit is over 300 troops who must be processed out. Look for next weekend for the escort from Dix to Philadelphia. All logistics have been worked out with Fort Dix authorities and the Southampton Road Authorities and the Family Readiness Group. Mission is a definite ‘go,' estimated to be next weekend.

What: Escort the buses taking the soldiers of the 131st Transportation Company from Fort Dix to Home, the Southampton Road Armory in NE Philly. The unit has completed a 10 month deployment.

We escorted this unit for their sendoff, last November. Sadly, three of those soldiers who we sent off will not be returning, having died in Afghanistan. (Lindsay Omlor, in the other thread, earned her Combat Action badge when her vehicle came under enemy fire.)

A link to the ride report, there are links to photos at the bottom of the report.

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12/3/11
Welcome Home
Sp4 Lindsay Omlor, U.S. Army

We have a request from the family of SP4 Lindsay Omlor, US Army, to welcome her back to her home in Roxborough after a 9 month deployment to Afghanistan!
” I’d like to try to arrange for a “neighborhood welcome home”, not sure if that is what it is called. I’ve seen in the news media where soldiers are welcomed home by their neighborhood fire company and local police, and the Warrior Watch. Do you know how I would go about coordinating that?

"Lindsay would be thrilled (as would our family) to have you guys and the neighborhood here to welcome her home! It is going to be very hard on Lindsay and her Unit as they are coming home less three of their comrades that were killed and others that were seriously wounded. They’ve seen a lot, as I am sure you know having experienced it yourself, and it would be great for her to see how your organization and everyone feels about these soldiers.”

Let’s get out and show this Soldier how much we appreciate her service and sacrifice to Our Country!

Who: Spc. Lindsay Marie Omlor
What: Welcome Home Escort
Where: NE Philly to Roxborough
When: Saturday 12/3

Link to map.

Rally Location: Wawa
Grant Ave & Blue Grass Rd Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19114
Rally Time: 10AM
This time may swing a little either way based upon completion of 131st drop off at Southampton!
Right after completing drop off of 131st Transport at Southampton Armory
KSU: 25 minutes after Rally

Lindsay is a member of the 131st Transportation Company, Southampton Armory. You will remember that we escorted that unit to their sendoff, taking them from the armory to Fort Dix.

Bio:
Spc Lindsay Marie Omlor has been enlisted for 1 year 7 months attached to the 131st transportation Company.
This is her first deployment and her MOS is Truck Driver.
Lindsay was awarded a “Combat Action Badge,” for her role in safely transporting supplies under direct hostile enemy fire during operations on June 9, 2010.

She attended Immaculate Heart of Mary grade school in Roxborough Philadelphia and Hallahan High School in center city Philadelphia.

Lindsay loves to dance and socialize with friends. She will be looking into schools that have a good nursing program. She hopes to be able to start in September.
We would not be surprised if she applies for a position within the Philadelphia Police Dept. if and when the opportunity arises!!

She has a brother, Dave Omlor is a Philadelphia Police Officer along with her Uncle. Father, Dave Omlor is retired from the City of Philadelphia where he worked for 28 years. Mom, Patti Omlor is an administrative assistant at St. Aloysius Academy grade school.

Lindsay’s father, Dave and three Uncles were in the Navy and another Uncle in the Marines. She has a cousin who served in the Marines and served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

We are just so proud of Lindsay. She has always been a fighter and will stand up to anything throw her way!!! She and her unit have endured a lot. She has grown so much during this deployment and we are so very proud of how she has handled herself.

A link to a local paper’s report on Lindsay’s return.

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12/3/11
UPDATED! Welcome Home
SPC. Yvenson Dure, U.S. Army

Warriors’ Watch Rider’s has received a request from Jasmine Dure to help her Welcome Home her husband Spc. Yvenson Dure upon his safe return from deployment in Afghanistan.

“I had a couple of questions for you regarding our homecoming, first my father would like to volunteer to ride with you guys if that is possible. Second I wanted to find out about the individual homecomings. I would like to do this for my husband. Thank you for your time. And thank you guys sooooo much for your support.

I just found out that my husbands truck was hit while out on a mission, and he was there to recover the vehicle of our fallen soldiers SSG Vangiesen, Sgt Mowery, and Sgt Koehler, again we our soooo proud of him and thank God for bringing him home safely.”

Well Jasmine, Yes, we would love to have your father Eric ride with us when we escort the 131st from Ft. Dix to the Armory and YES we can’t wait to welcome home your husband and show him how much we appreciate his service to Our Country!

Who: Spc Yvenson Dure
What: Welcome Home Escort
Rally Location: Dick’s Sporting Goods Willow Grove Mall
2510 Moreland RoadWillow Grove, PA 19090
Link To Rally Location:
Rally Time: 1PM (13:00 hours)
KSU: 1:25PM

We will walk in on Spc. Dure at a local restaurant, make some noise and escort him home!

Bio:

SPC. Yvenson Dure (its pronounced Evenson Durae), has been enlisted for 3 years attached to the 131st transportation unit. Philadelphia/Southampton Rd.

This was his first deployment.

His military MOS (job) is 91B Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic, and awards include Serving In Time of War, ARCOM, Overseas, Afghan Campaign, Combat Action Badge

Spc Dure graduated from Batram High School in 2003 at the age of 16. Attended college for a few years before enrolling in the national guard. After his return home he plans to continue his education with a degree in culinary arts. He loves to cook and he’s a very hard worker, he strives to be the best at anything he does.

He was married to Jasmine M. Dure on October 9, 2010 and has a 1 yr old son named Joshua Ian Dure. He is an excellent father and husband who works hard to take care of his family. For someone who wasn’t born in this country (originally from Haiti), he has given up a lot for this country including missing out on the first year of his first born and for that we are so proud of him. He has taken his job of being a soldier/mechanic and has embraced it, always studying to learn new things. That is one of the reasons I love him so much, because he is such a dedicated person and always gives it his all.

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12/3/11
Welcome Home
Spc. Rob Kislow, U.S. Army

Homes for our Troops will be presenting Spc Rob Kislow with a specially adapted house at a KEY ceremony. We have been asked to participate in an escort on Saturday, December 3rd at 11:00 AM. We have been asked to provide a flag line and possibly escort for Spc Kislow for the Key ceremony. Leo has been secured, also participating will be Mario Andretti, who will be providing the transportation of Spc. Kislow.

Some of you may remember Spc. Kislow as he was severely wounded and lost a leg as a result of wounds sustained in battle. Rob was shot five times.

RC: CanAmChris if available, or DirtyDog
Ride is approx. 5 miles
Rally Point: Covenant United Methodist Church, 2715 Mountain View Dr. Bath, PA 18014
Rally Time: 10:00 AM
KSU: 10:45

More info

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12/4/11
Welcome Home
Spc. Todd Boothe, U.S. Army

Warriors’ Watch Rider’s has received a request from Theresa Booothe to welcome home her husband upon his safe return from Afghanistan.

Specialist Boothe must be a great guy, because we also received a request from his neighbor Miss Rome!

Who: Army Spc. Todd Boothe
What: Welcome Home Escort
Where: Limerick to Pottstown
When: Sunday 11/4
Rally Location: Wawa 579 North Lewis Road Limerick, PA 19468-1129
This is the Wawa right at the Limerick exit of 422, not the one on ridge pike!

Link to Rally Location

Rally Time: 10:15 am
KSU: 10:55 am
RC: Gpopss

Specialist Boothe is in the Army National Guard. He has been in the service 9 years accumulative, not consecutive. His MOS is Primary (non active) FMS #4 Mechanic at Phoenixville Armory and (active duty) 91 Bravo Mechanic, 85 Mike Transport Operator, Hotel 88 Recovery Specialist, 52 Delta Generator Specialist. 

Todd also served in Desert Storm.

Other family in the armed forces- His sister-in-law Sgt Tamara English, Brother-in-law Sgt Tyrone English, nephew PFC David Dilworth
I am his wife of 10 years Theresa Boothe, He has five children and 4 grandchildren.

Todd graduated from John F Kennedy High School in Suffolk, Virginia and spent 1 year at Reading Area Community College in Reading, Pennsylvania
Todd enjoys spending time with his family having cookouts (he loves to cook) he usually ends up inviting all the neighbors as well. He also is an avid sports fan totally engrossed in football. His favorite team is NY Giants.

Todd is also a big movie buff. He has a very extensive DVD collection. He enjoys Sunday afternoon matinees as a way of spending quality time with his wife. He is a lover of music as well, any kind. He can name most artists and songs he hears playing and probably has them in his ultimate CD collection.

Todd is a special kind of man that doesn’t come along often enough. He is outgoing and friendly and not afraid to show emotion or affection openly towards those he loves. He is open, out spoken, and honest. He helped me raise my three children as if they were his own. He provided for them all these years. He has never been a “Step dad”, He has been a true DAD in every sense of the word. Todd will help ANYONE no matter what the need is or who it is. He has a strong will and determination to always help a fellow person. From giving rides, buying groceries, lending money, and yes – even babysitting. If you need help, he is there. EVERY TIME.

Please call 484-79-1717 for more info or questions call 610-327-2916

PA 18014
Rally Time: 10:00 AM
KSU: 10:45

More info

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From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, November 21, 2011
Subject: 1/23/11 WELCOME HOME PFC Christopher Asher, U.S. ARMY

WELCOME HOME
PFC Christopher Asher, U.S. ARMY
NO MEDIA REQUESTED, PLEASE

We have been contacted by the father of PFC Christopher Asher to see if we could assist with a welcome home for his son. Seems Christopher came back to his post about a month ahead of his Brigade and there was no one there to meet him including family. Well, I say yes we can, this young man deserves a Welcome Home and we will do the best we can to provide one. We will be gathering with the family at the airport and perform our ever popular Mug-n-Hug, this is a surprise to Christopher as well as his mother and sister so we have to keep it on the down low, so our quite escort into the neighborhood is out. 

Christopher was a dog handler and was injured by an I.E.D during this last tour.

Short Bio to follow: PFC Christopher Asher is with the 4th Brigade 10th Mountain Division stationed in Fort Polk Louisiana,
he has just returned after 6 months in Afghanistan.

Date : 11/23/2011 
Rally Location: FB69
Rally Time: 12:50 PM
KSU: 1:30 PM
Flag line at: Philadelphia Int.

SIDEKICK has stepped up to RC this Welcome Home! 
Thank You for doing this and I have made the change to reflect a Welcome Home Mug-n-Hug at the Airport only.

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From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, November 7, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Upcoming Veteran's Day Events

A HERO’S WELCOME

Please try and join us for one or both of the Veteran’s Day Events

Friday Nov. 11, 2011 “Teach The Children” Barkley Elementary School, Phoenixville, PA
http://aheros-welcome.org/blog/2011/11/07/111111/

Saturday Nov. 12, 2011 Salute the Troops Event: Rose Tree Park in Media, Delaware County, PA
http://aheros-welcome.org/blog/2011/11/07/111211-salute-the-troops-event-rosetree-park-delaware-county-pa/

call Maria @ 610-327-2916 for more info or questions.

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Friday, November 4, 2011
Subject: 11/5/11 UPDATE!! Welcome Home LCpl. Brandon McCulley, U.S.M.C.

11/5/11 UPDATE!!
Welcome Home
LCpl. Brandon McCulley, U.S.M.C.

We missed this welcome last weekend due to the weather conditions, but it’s been rescheduled so
COME ON OUT and say “THANK YOU”!!!!
New Times:

NEW RALLY POINT- 2101 Howard Boulevard, Reading, PA 19606-1827 (Arner’s Family Restaurant)
RALLY TIME – 14:30 (2:30 pm)
KSU – 14:55 (2:55 pm)

We saw Brandon return safely from his first deployment in May of 2010, now, his family has asked us to welcome Bradon home again, from his second deployment… this time… our 
MARINE WILL BE SEEING HIS BRAND NEW DAUGHTER FOR THE 1ST TIME!!!
LCpl McCulley will be seeing his new daughter for the 1st time! How lucky are we to be invited to be there, welcome this Hero and see his face when he lays his eyes on his beautiful baby girl! 

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10/16/11 Home
LCpl. Matthew Hubner, U.S.M.C.

Marine mother, Robin Hubner has asked us o welcome her son Lcpl Matthew Hubner.

This will be a Mug N Hug only, at their home. Matt has spent 5 years in the Corps, and will be driving home today.

Sunday, October 16th @ 2:00 PM in Quakertown

It will be our pleasure to Mug N Hug this hero, who has been deployed to many different locations, which include:
Gitmo Cuba, Bahrain, Jordan, Africa, and Afghanistan

Matt was primarily with the FAST teams and later transferred to 2nd BN 6th Marines. Joined in Oct. 2006

RC ---Tamale--- Thanks for stepping up Pat

Primary Rally Point: Quakertown WAWA (corner of W. Pumping Station RD. & N. West End Blvd. aka Rt 309)
Rally time 1:00 PM
KSU: 1:45 PM
Secondary Rally Point: McDonalds, 14 Main St. Hellertown, PA
Rally Time: 12:15 PM
KSU: 12:30 PM

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10/15/11 WELCOME HOME
LCPL BEYER, U.S.M.C.

If you remember, we stood in the rain in Schwenksville to give Ryan welcome home from boot camp. He was named “Iron Man” at Parris Island, he was the fastest (runner) recruit they had! Now, Ryan has completed his first deployment and his Mom would like us to be there to welcome him home!

LET’S DO THIS!

FROM RYAN'S MOM:

My son is LCPL Ryan Beyer (USMC)
He is returning this Saturday October 15 and I would like to request an escort.
Ryan, a former student of Lockhaven University, receiving a Wrestling Grant, but only attending 1 year of, quit College knowing he would have to pay back the tuition, to join the USMC, that had been his dream since he was 5 or 6 years old.

Last June while graduating boot camp in Parris Island SC, Ryan was awarded the "Iron Man Award" (most physically fit, mentally endured Marine) of the entire graduates of the USMC on Paris Island, at that time. Ryan scored a 596 out of a possible 600 pts. On his final PT. Ryan then went on to become a Machine Gunner, (0331 Infantry 3/2 India Co.) to be meritoriously promoted to Lance Corporal.

He was sent to Afghanistan in early February 2011 (1st tour) where he lived in hostile territory behind enemy lines, until this past September 19 when he returned to Camp Lejeune NC., turning 21 in Afghanistan. Ryan is in the Force Recon division, and is basically headed back to Afghanistan in the near future. His first tour was a bit depressing for him, as he lost some of his fellow brothers while in combat. On October 31, Ryan will be going back to Camp Lejeune NC to begin a Sniper training.

I would like it to be said that this is a true brother. Ryan wears the names of a few of the fallen men that he served with while in Afghanistan: Cpl Adam Jones, Cpl Jabari Thompson and Sgt Mark Bradley.

I have a friend who owns a 57 Chevy truck, meeting him at the Philly airport with Ryan’s only sibling... his brother Austin.

The street will have neighbors out at their driveways greeting him, to be welcomed at his home with about 150 of Ryan's close friends and family. This would really help bring this Marine's spirit up as he is headed back to Afghanistan in the near future.

Thank You for all you do. I am now a member, and will possibly be riding along, provided I can batten down the fort at home!

Sincerely,
Joan Beyer

RALLY - 222 E Main St Collegeville Pa 19426 http://maps.google.com/maps?q=.....426&t=h&z=19
RALLY TIME -1530 (3:30pm)
KSU - APPROXIMATELY 1600 (4PM)

This Hero has lost some close friends. Let’s get out and give him the Hero’s Welcome he deserves.

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Warriors' Watch Rider's has received a request for
10/15 or?/11
Welcome Home Navy
Petty Officer Shane McClennan

Stand by for updates!

Stan McClennan has asked us to welcome home his son, Navy Petty Officer Shane McClennan, after a 13 month deployment to Honduras.

"Son coming home from being deployed for 13 months. As of now looks like Oct 15, Shane will be back in the area.

All I can say at this time. Not sure which date we can do because do not know times as of yet.

We met Stan during a Welcome Home he came out to support in Royersford in early October.

Let's show this young man how much we appreciate his service to Our Country!

More Details to come. Please watch our site for updates on this welcome home.

Who: Petty Officer Shane McClennan
What: Welcome Home Escort
Where: TBD to Gilbertville
When: Saturday 10/15 Late afternoon
Rally Point: TBD
Rally Time: TBD

Petty Officer Shane McClennan is a 2008 graduate of Boyertown High School. He joined the Navy shortly after graduation and is an E4 Master of Arms Security Specialist, Security Dog Handler.

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10/14/11 GROUP WELCOME HOME
TO MARINES AND CORPSMAN!!! FOLSOM, PA

PLEASE JOIN US AT THE FOLSOM VFW TO WELCOME HOME OUR MARINES AND CORPSMAN! 

Date: 10/14/2011
Rally Time: 4:00 PM
Rally Location: Rest Stop on North bound I95 Pa/DE border.
KSU: We are hoping for 5:00 PM (subject to change)
Final Destination: Folsom VFW
VFW Post 28 Herbert W Best
1805 Macdade Boulevard
Folsom, PA 19033-1213

We have been contacted by the proud mom of Cpl Quinn to see if there is any possible way we can assist in a Welcome home escort for her son and 7 other Marines and a Corpsman coming home from Camp Lejeune. Our Heroes will be riding up together to have a celebration at the Folsom VFW (did large Marine send off couple years back) and then they will be going separate ways to be with family. This is our window of opportunity to try and show how much their service has meant to our country.

Short Bios of our Hero’s:

LCpl. John Quinn, (Ridley, PA) mortar man/rifleman – has been a United States Marine for over 1 year. In that time he has served with the 3/2 Weapons Company for the last eight months in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. His duties consisted of searching out Taliban and securing previously unsecured areas and opened roads for the Afghani Army to use in maintaining that security in remote villages.

LCpl. Christopher Showman, (Ridley, PA) mortar man/rifleman – has been a United States Marine for over 1 year. In that time he has served with the 3/2 Weapons Company for the last eight months in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. His duties consisted of searching out Taliban and securing previously unsecured areas and opened roads for the Afghani Army to use in maintaining that security in remote villages.

LCpl. Daniel Miller, (Alabama) mortar man/rifleman – has been a United States Marine for over 1 year. In that time he has served with the 3/2 India for the last eight months in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. During his deployment his unit maintained security in hostile areas and helped build relations with local populace.

LCpl. Matthew White, (New York), mortar man/rifleman – has been a United States Marine for over 1 year. In that time he has served with the 3/2 Weapons Company for the last eight months in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. While there his duty station protected the roads and wadi from Taliban and insurgents searching for IEDs.

LCpl. Joshua Overton – (North Carolina) mortar man/rifleman – has been a United States Marine for over 1 year. In that time he has served with the 3/2 Weapons Company for the last eight months in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. While there his duty station protected the roads and wadi from Taliban and insurgents searching for IEDs. 

LCpl. Anthony Lester – (Ohio) mortar man/rifleman – has been a United States Marine for over 1 year. In that time he has served with the 3/2 Weapons Company for the last eight months. During his deployment his unit maintained security in hostile areas and helped build relations with local populace.

Cpl. Xu Liang – (China/New York) mortar man/rifleman – has been a United States Marine for over 1 year. In that time he has served with the 3/2 Weapons Company for the last eight months in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. While there his duty station protected the roads and wadi from Taliban and insurgents. Cpl. Liang moved to the United States from China to become a United States Marine.

Doc. Vince Edera – (Philippine/Washington State) A Navy Medic for the past 5 years, was assigned to the 3/2 Weapons Company and stationed the last eight months in Afghanistan, Helmand Province. Doc was with LCpl. Quinn and LCpl. Showman and others in heavy combat taking care of his Marines and locals and Afghani Army in any medical capacity needed.

SSgt. Renard Singleton – (Illinois) has been a United States Marine for 19 years. Serving three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan his last tour with the 3/2 was as the Platoon Commander responsible for the security and safety of Senior Command Personnel of Afghan and Coalition Forces, to travel and build positive relations and strength in the communities with the local populace against enemy forces now and in the future.

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10/14/11Welcome Home
LCpl Joseph Monastero, U.S.M.C.

LCpl. Jospeph Monastero has wanted to be a Marine for a long time. He joined the “Young Marines” and continued his dream and you know what they say “once a Marine, always a Marine!” Joseph will be returning from his deployment and we’d love to make this a welcome home he’ll never forget. Plymouth Township Fire Departments are pulling out all the stops for this welcome home and we’ll join them as we arrive in the area from PHL. Please join us at the airport or at the Victory Business Campus in Plymouth.

Whatever is easier for you. Just pleases join us!!!! for the final stage of the escort

Short Bio by Joseph’s Mom:

Our son joined the Marines after high school. Since the age of three he wanted to be a Marine. At age eleven he joined the Young Marine program which helped prepare him for boot camp and military life. He refused to consider any other branch of the military because he said the Marines are the best. He is finishing his first tour in Afghanistan. He currently works as a diesel mechanic of the 2nd Maintenance Battalion at Camp Lejeune NC.

Date: 10/14/2011
Rally Time: 6:30 PM
KSU 7:15 PM
Primary Rally Point: FB 69 (Picking up Hero at Airport then to secondary rally at Victory)
Second Rally Point: Victory Business Campus
Secondary Rally Time: Approx 8:30 at Victory Business campus at Germantown and Chemical Rds. Plymouth Mtg Pa.
Destination: Plymouth Meeting area

RC for this mission will be SJS so please lets get out there and support Sheldon on the mission. Thank You Sheldon for stepping up.

---

WELCOME HOME
US MARINE JEREMY 

Jeremy's Bio:

Jeremy grew up in Levittown. He loves sports. He has played Little League from T-ball to High School Ball. He also played football and enjoyed bowling and hockey with his friends. Jeremy decided early in high school he wanted to be a US Marine. He even wanted to attend the Valley Forge Military Academy. He graduated from Truman H.S. in June 2008 and left for Paris Island July 7, 2008.

Jeremy has always been an outgoing and independent person. Oct. 3, 2008, he graduated at Paris Island as a PFC. The following spring 2009, he became LCPL and the fall 2010, he became CPL.

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wednesday, October 5, 2011

WELCOME HOME FROM IRAQ
CW2 BILL MOWERS, US ARMY
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 OR MONDAY, OCTOBER 10

WE ARE STILL AWAITING FINAL DETAILS!!!!!

RALLY LOCATION: ENGINE 69 FIREHOUSE BARTRAM AND ISLAND
AVENUES, PHILA., PA
WHEN: OCTOBER 9 OR 10
RALLY TIME: TBA
DESTINATION: WEST CHESTER AREA FROM PHL

CW2 Mower is coming home to West Chester, Pa., from a long deployment in Iraq, since September 2010. He is an Apache Helicopter Pilot and is with the FLYING TIGERS 8-229TH out of Fort Knox. In civilian life, he is employed as a commercial airline pilot for US Airways.

This request came from a very proud and happy father, also named William Mowers, of West Chester. He tells us that his son will be coming home to parents Bill and Kay, wife Katie, sisters Victoria and Kay and their families, and that in attendance at the airport greeting will be two nieces, two nephews, and five godchildren, ranging in age from 2 to 11 years.

Father, Bill, is a proud and loyal member of the American Sheepdogs of West Chester (http://americansheepdogs.com/) and heard about the Warriors' Watch there. In fact, it was Phil who gave Mr. Mowers a WWR brochure, and he was deeply moved by our mission as stated in the brochure. Bill wrote to us, "Thank you for your patriotism and as an American and the father of an American soldier, I am truly proud and honored by your selfless gift of yourselves to our American troops." He closed his email with, "Again, I am truly grateful and very excited about this Welcome Home for Bill."

Warriors' Watch, what an impact you have on our troops, their families, our culture, our nation!

CHECK OUR WEBSITE: www.aheros-welcome.org or call 484-679-1717

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WELCOME HOME
SPECIALIST SPRING SULLIVAN
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9,2011

We have been requested by the Spring's parents to escort her home from a meeting place in the Wilkes Barre area. SPC Sullivan is with Unit 1244 Transportation Company and stationed at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Her deployment was from Sept. 2010 through Sept. 2011.

RALLY LOCATION: TBA
RALLY TIME: 11:00AM
KSU: TBD

Hot Shot is the contact for this and will be coordinating with Rolling Angels.

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AFGHANISTAN DEPLOYMENT
US MARINE 1ST LT. TYLER ROBERTSON
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2011

WHAT: Mug 'N Hug
WHERE: Harleysville, PA
WHEN: Saturday, October 8, 2011 Late Afternoon
RALLY LOCATION: Wawa Food Market 4121 Skippack Pike, Schwenksville, PA 19473
RALLY TIME: TBA

Warriors' Watch Rider's has received a request from Steve and Lynn Robertson to help them send off their son, Marine 1st Lt. Tyler Robertson on his deployment to Afghanistan. They will be hosting a party for Lee on Saturday Oct. 8th and would like us to stop by and make some noise and let this Marine know how much we appreciate his service to Our Country.

Link To Rally Location:
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=.....473&t=h&z=16

RC: Gpopss

We met Steve and Lynn when they came out to support two missions in early October. Below is the request we received:
During the 2 rides on Sept 18, I mentioned to a few folks (and Tamale) that our son 1st Lt. Lee (Tyler) Robertson will be leaving for Afghanistan in Oct. I was told that send off rides have been done and was encourage to make a request.
We will be having a send off party for Tyler at our home on October 8th (starting at 4pm) and were wondering if you would be willing to stop in to encourage this young aviation supply officer as he heads off to serve in an infantry billet.

Tyler (Lee), 26, is a 3rd generation Marine . He was just married last July and will be leaving his young wife behind at Cherry Point, NC. We are, needless to say, proud of this young man and his willingness to serve and his love for his country.

Tyler will be leading a border patrol made up of a squad of Marines and 30 Afghanistan troops. Our prayer is not only for this safe return but safety for all those serving with him. Thanks so much for your consideration, Lynn and Steve Robertson (USMC Retired)

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Subject: EXTREME SHORT NOTICE!

9/27/11 EXTREME SHORT NOTICE!
Welcome Home
Sgt. Frank Attwood, U.S. Army

Rally Time: 1530 ( 3:30 pm)
Rally Location: Fire Base 69 82nd and Bartram Ave, Phila., Pa 
Rally Location #2: Pica’s Restaurant • 7803 West Chester Pike • Upper Darby, PA 19082
Rally Time/Location #2: 4:30 pm

SGT Frank Attwood is scheduled to return for R&R from Camp Ramadi in IRAQ, his second tour/ his first in South Korea. Although he is from NJ his sister and family, who have been on WWR missions, have asked that we escort him from the airport to Pica’s on West Chester Pike in Upper Darby. We’ve had this info for a couple weeks but the family still does not have his arrival information so please stand by for this escort!

Details of Request: Dear Members of Warrior Watch, It is in keeping with your vision: 

WE WILL HONOR OUR NATION’S WARRIORS HERE AT HOME, AND SUPPORT THEIR FAMILIES WHILE THEY FIGHT FOR US ABROAD…and it is with the greatest pride and gratitude that we write this letter on behalf of our own SGT Frank Attwood and request that you do him the honor of escorting him as he returns to his home at the end of this month. Frank is coming home for R&R from Camp Ramadi, Iraq. His time in Iraq is his second tour; his first was in South Korea.

In addition to these deployments, despite some very serious and valid reasons (primarily his family, including his toddler son, Ayden) and some very alluring opportunities that would have been afforded him in the civilian world, we found out just today that Frank has selflessly re-enlisted in the army. In his younger days, Frank gave us reason to fear that his amazing strength, courage, determination and brilliance may have lead him down a not-so-honorable path, but to our relief, he instead gathered all of his extraordinary talents and characteristics and became an honorable and brave United States Soldier with the 82nd Airborne. We’re really excited at the prospect of Warrior Watch support as we, along with Frank’s Uncle Matt, Aunt Kathy, his brother Richard and other members of the family frequently are involved in escort events. Sometime in October, we will be making similar request of Warrior Watch as we see Frank’s brother, John Paul, off to Afghanistan.

Please, along with us, consider showing him how proud and grateful we are for and to him by cheering him on to “FEEL APPRECIATED, HONORED, RESPECTED AND LOVED BY THE CITIZENS [he] Risks [his] Life TO PROTECT…” Thank you for your time and effort.

Contact: Maria 610-327-2916 for more info

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Sunday, September 18, 2011

9/20/11 Honor Mission for
SGT James Lyons, U.S. Army

Warriors Watch has been asked by the family of SGT James Lyons to attend the funeral of this HERO. He is a friend of our own Phil Altringer. Lets get out in force to honor this young hero. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday 9/20

United States Army Sgt James E. Lyons, Senior Sniper, Apache company, 1st 1FT Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 24 years old, a hero who loved and served his country honorably, was taken too soon on September 12, 2011. Jim served multiple terms over-seas and in hostile territories and was expert at his missions. Jim was a true leader and mentor to his team. He participated in the military national marksmanship competition where he ranked at the top.

Jim graduated from Concord High School, Wilmington, DE and upon graduation joined the Army to defend his country. While in High School, Jim was a member of the crew team. Jim was an avid motor cyclist and rode often with his father and mother when he was home on leave. Jim also loved to participate in paint ball activities. Jim loved his family and was always there for those who needed him.

RALLY POINT-UPPER CHICHESTER COMMUNITY CENTER, LOCATED RIGHT OFF OF I-95 NEXT TO DiCOSTANZAS SANDWICH SHOP. DiCOSTANZAS ADDRESS IS 1930 MARKET ST, BOOTHWYN PA 19061. WHEN YOU GET OFF OF I-95 AND HEAD SOUTH ON 452, THE COMMUNITY CENTER IS RIGHT BEFORE DiCOSTANZAS ON THE RIGHT.

RALLY TIME -0930 (9:30 am)

KSU -0950 (9:50 am)

PLEASE KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON THIS THREAD FOR UPCOMING INFO.

GOD BLESS SGT JAMES LYONS. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH JIMS FAMILY AND FRIENDS AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME.

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9/18/11 (A) Welcome Home
LCpl. PJ Dunn, U.S.M.C.

Date: 9/18/2011
Rally Time: Approx 2:00 PM
Rally Location: CVS/pharmacy, 3 South Pennell Road Media, PA 19063
KSU Time: Approx 2:30 – 2:45 PM
Final Destination: Media Pa.

PJ’s Mom, Bonnie, contacted AHW and asked if we could help her welcome her son home from Afghanistan. She stressed over and over her concern about us keeping this welcome very low key. Sounds like our Marine is as humble as I have found many of our Heroes. This is the beautiful part of our young men and women, they put their lives on the line every day and they don’t feel THEY deserve thanks for any of it.. they call it “their job” well, guess what kids? Our job is to make sure they DO know how we feel!!! Let’s join Bonnie in welcoming her son home. This will be a short Mug n Hug.. no Fire Department escort or Media.. but there will be fan fare! AHW and WWR fan fare for sure! Well rally at the CVS and all ride over to PJ’s Aunt’s home to give him one of our famous Mug n Hugs (or as Lorraine likes to call it.. HUG n MUG.. let’s get our priorities straight, right Lorraine ???)

Short Bio:

My son, LCpl Patrick (PJ) Dunn, has just returned from Afghanistan with the 2nd Battalion 8th Marines stationed at Camp LeJeune, NC on August 6. This was his first deployment. He is an 0311 Infantry. Some of my family members took me down to Camp Lejuene for the happy occasion when they came back to the base by bus. Such an emotional event. We only had really 1 day with him down there before we had to return to our hometown, Aston, Pa. Even though PJ returned to the states on Aug 6, They did not receive block leave until Sept. 2.
When I told him people are proud of him and just want to say thank you and acknowledge his service to our country. He said it only mattered that I was proud of him! Aawww, such a sweet thing for a son to say to his mother!
We will have plenty of time to make the Royersford mission so what say you lets get out and do this for this deserving Marine.

************************************

9/18/11 (B) Welcome Home
LCpl. Andrew Hagman, U.S.M.C.

Date: Sept 18 2011
Rally Time: 5:45 PM
Rally Point: Giant Food Pharmacy 967 S Township Line Rd, Royersford, PA 19468
KSU: 6:30 – 6:45 PM
Final Destination: Royersford Pa. Area

LCpl. Hagman’s family has heard about what we do and how we do it.. the ROCK STAR Treatment is what they would LOVE for their son, Andrew! So.. let’s do it kids.. let’s show this Marine how much we appreciate what he is doing and HAS DONE for us… grab your American Flags and let’s get moving on this welcome home.. We’ll do a Mug n Hug w/ the Warriors’ Watch Riders for this special Marine who has wanted to defend our country since a very young age!!!!! 

Check out his short bio by family:

He always had an interest in serving in the military. At the age of 12, I can remember him telling me that he wanted to join the Army so he could fight all the bad people who did not like the United States.

While at Spring-ford High School, Andrew participated in track and field and was on Special teams and defense for the Spring-ford football team. Andrew also attended Western Technical School in his junior and senior year of high school where he became an expert in construction. He helped build a home that continues to be constructed for a lower income family in Limerick. Andrew received Honors while in high school and was inducted into the National Honor Society in his senior year of school. Andrew graduated from Spring-Ford High School on June 12th 2009. Also Andrew became a fire-fighter and ran with the Spring City Volunteer fire company.

Before Andrew turned 18, he came to me and stated he would like to become a Marine. Andrew and I went to see a USMC recruiter and he was signed up. He took the physical and written tests and passed with high results. Andrew was taken to Parris Island, South Carolina where he began boot camp training on August 23, 2009. While in Boot Camp Andrew received a meritorious promotion and graduated boot camp on November 20, 2009 as Squad Leader and Pvt First Class. On January 18, 2011, Andrew was flown to serve in Afghanistan for 7 months. While there Andrew received another promotion, this time to Cpl. He is now known as Cpl Andrew Hagmann and is currently stationed in Camp LeJuene, North Carolina.

Thank you so much for this. It means a lot. I know Andrew says that he does not need acknowledgement.
He is a Marine because he wants to serve his country and to help whomever he can. He doesn’t do it for the honor and praise.
But I think he is a real special kid.

* * * * * * * * * **

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
To: "andread50@yahoo.com" <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome upcoming events 9-15 to 9-18-11

Welcome Home
TSgt. Steve Maniscalco

Rally Date: Thurs. 9/15/11
Rally Time: 1700 (5 pm)
Rally location: DE Rest stop,I-95 South, Newark, DE
KSU/depart for BWI 1720 (5:20 pm)

If you can't make it to the airport, please consider being at the destination address in Newark, DE when our Hero arrives!!!

Please contact Maria for more info (maria@aheros-welcome.org)

Bio from Steve's wife:

My husband Tsgt Steve Maniscalco has been deployed, with the 142nd AES since May 2nd overseas. It has definitely not been an easy deployment for him, not that any are ever easy, but just in these 2 short months, we have buried 2 of his very close relatives, his Uncle, who was like a 2nd father to him passed just 2 weeks after he left, you see Steve's dad passed when he was a teen and his Uncle Bob kinda was like a surrogate and here recently his 47 year old brother died on June 26th. Both had been ill with Cancer and although he was prepared for his uncle's passing the passing of his brother was quite a shock as he had been doing really well when he left. Steve opted to not return home for either service, although the funeral home for his brother did live stream the services for him to be able to watch, Steve felt as though it would be too much for him and our 2 small children for him to take leave and come home only to have to go back, so we as a family supported his decision to stay and "complete his mission."

He is due to return home in September and because of these extraordinary circumstances that he has dealt with during this deployment. I am trying to find out how to arrange a "special homecoming" for him.

Thank you again for any help.
Sincerely
JoLynn Maniscalco
Location
Newark DE

PLEASE CALL 610-327-2916 FOR
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS
CALL 484-679-1717 - PRE-RECORDED MESSAGE AND UPDATE HOTLINE

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9/3/11 Welcome Home
LCpl James Yeager, U.S.M.C.

MARINE MOTHER Laura Harrier, who is also a WWR member has requested a WELCOME HOME and ESCORT of her son Lcpl James Yeager USMC. Lcpl Yeager is currently in Afghanistan and is due to return to the Lehigh Valley on Saturday, September 3, time has been confirmed, as always time and date could be tentative, but looks good. This is to be a total surprise. Lets make sure everyone brings their sunglasses, just in case your eyes sweat.

Escort to be from ABE airport to home, approximately 11 miles, simple route.
FYI: Not only is James mother a member of WWR, so is his father, and uncle.
Let’s give this MARINE a welcome home, that he will never forget.

RC_____CanAmChris _____ THANKS FOR STEPPING UP
Rally Point: Wachovia Bank (now for lease) Airport Rd. and City Line Rd. Allentown PA (directly across from Airport entrance)
Rally Time: 9:45 AM
KSU: 10:15 AM

Brief Bio: Lcpl Yeager USMC is in the 2/8 Weapons Co., MAP 2. He is a graduate of Notre Dame High School in Easton PA.
When James told his mother of plans to join the Marines, he was asked to wait a year to see if he felt the same way. Exactly 1 year later James was a Marine.
Lcpl Yeager turned 21 years old in January while serving in Afghanistan. James was recently in 3 battles where 3 Marines in his unit were KIA.
WELCOME HOME MARINE, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!!! 

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Sunday, August 28, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome upcoming events

Please watch www.aheros-welcome.org for info on upcoming welcomes. Updates and final plans will be posted here. Thank you! 

9/2/11 WELCOME HOME
LCpl. JASON KILMARTIN, U.S.M.C.

What: Welcome Home Escort
When: 9/2/11
Where: Escort to Worcester Area
Rally Location: Walmart Parking Lot (Behind Chick-fil-A)(Up Trooper Rd from Valley Forge HD)
650 S. Trooper Rd
Norristown, PA 19403
Rally Time: 1730hrs (5:30pm)
KSU: 1815hrs (6:15pm)

We have received a request from Marine Mom, Diane Kilmartin, to Welcome Home her son when he returns from deployment in Afghanistan Serving Our Country.

"My son LCpl Jason Kilmartin with the 2nd Bn 8th Marines deployed to Afghanistan will be returning to NC early August with leave at home scheduled later most likely closer to Labor Day. What steps are required to start to plan his homecoming?
Thank You, Diane Kilmartin"

WELL, YOUR FAMILY HAS DONE PLENTY DIANE!
WE'VE GOT IT FROM HERE!
LETS GET OUT AND SHOW THIS MARINE HOW MUCH WE APPRECIATE HIS SERVICE!

UPDATE   UPDATE   UPDATE

Brief Bio

Our son LCPl Jason Kilmartin, 2nd Bn 8th Marines returns home on leave in early September,
He Graduated Kenrick Kennedy High School 2006, attended Kutztown University and Montgomery County Community College but always wanted to join the Marine Corps.
He followed what was in his heart to serve our country and graduated Parris Island March 2010.
Jason has a brother Brian and sister Kelly. He loves sports and played Ice Hockey since he was 7 and plans on joining a mens league when he gets back to Camp Leguene where he is stationed.
Our names are Brian and Diane Kilmartin and we are grateful for your help!!!

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8/31/11 WELCOME HOME
LT. ROBERT MERRIWEATHER, U. S. ARMY

UPDATE!

DATE: WED. AUG. 31, 2011
TIME: APPROX 6:00 PM (WATCH THE AHW SITE FOR UPDATES)
RALLY POINT: TBA/SPRINGFIELD, PA AREA (EXACT RALLY POINT AND TIME TBA)
ESCORT TO: MRYTLE AVE, MORTON, PA

We received a request to welcome home Rev. Raymond and Debra Merriweather's son, Lt. Robert Merriweather, U.S. Army.
His family is so excited to see Robert and so are we! Let's get out and show our Hero how much we appreciate what he is doing for us every day. Robert is from Morton, PA in Delaware County and is on his way home from Afghanistan!
We will keep you updated on time and location for this very happy event. Standing by Lt. Merriweather. WELCOME HOME!!!! WOOOHOOO!!!

Short bio from Lt. Robert Merriweather's Mother, Debra:

Graduate of West Point Military Academy 2009, 24 years old
Branched Infantry trained platoon in Kentucky @ Fort Knox
Airborne Ranger Qualified
Deployed since Jan 4, 2011
Youngest of 3 siblings
Hobbies: Martial Arts (Black Belt), Golf, Boxing, Reading

I would love to see him receive a Hero's Welcome!

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Upcoming events

8/31/11 Welcome Home
Lt. Robert Merriweather, U.S. Army

We received a request to welcome home Rev. Raymond and Debra Merriweather’s son, Lt. Robert Merriweather, U.S. Army.
His family is so excited to see Robert and so are we! Let’s get out and show our Hero how much we appreciate what he is doing for us every day. Robert is from Morton, PA in Delaware County and is on his way home from Afghanistan !

More info to follow on rally time and location. 
We will keep you updated on time and location for this very happy event. Standing by Lt. Merriweather. WELCOME HOME!!!! WOOOHOOO!!!

Short bio from Lt. Robert Merriweather’s Mother, Debra:

Graduate of West Point Military Academy 2009, 24 years old
Branched Infantry trained platoon in Kentucky @ Fort Knox
Airborne Ranger Qualified
Deployed since Jan 4, 2011
Youngest of 3 siblings
Hobbies…Martial Arts (Black Belt), Golf, Boxing, Reading

I would love to see him receive a Heros’s Welcome

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8/30/11 PENDING…WELCOME HOME
PV 2 RAYMOND NOCITO, U.S. ARMY

PLANS STILL IN THE WORKS FOR RAYMOND’S WELCOME/PLEASE WATCH THIS SITE FOR UPDATES!!!!
PENDING DATE: 8/30/11
PENDING TIME: 6:00 PM
PENDING LOCATION: WILLOW GROVE MALL AREA

From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Subject: SHORT NOTICE! SHORT NOTICE! 8/24/11 Welcome Home Sgt. Christopher McAndrew/SPREAD THE WORD!!!!

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Welcome Home
Sgt. Christopher McAndrew

A Hero’s Welcome has received a request to Welcome Home Sgt Christopher McAndrew upon his return from deployment in Afghanistan.
UPDATE SHORT NOTICE
When: 8/24/2011
Rally Point: Firebase 69 (82nd & Bartram Ave )
Rally Time: 1130hrs (11:30am)
KSU: 1225hrs (12:25pm)
Escort to 2600 BLOCK OF HILLCREST AVE. East Norriton, PA (ETA 2:00 PM)

From Sgt. McAndrew’s wife Justine;

My name is Justine McAndrew.
My husband Sgt. Christopher McAndrew is due to come home from Afghanistan after a year active duty deployment. I think what your organization does is really great, and I know my husband would really appreciate it too. We have a 6 month old son, Colin, who he only had the chance to see for a short time since he was born in the middle of his deployment. There is no certain date yet for my husband's return other than sometime in August 2011. He will be flying into Philadelphia International Airport. Could you please respond to me and let me know what I have to do to set the hero’s welcome up for my husband??
Thank you so much.

Justine

WELL JUSTINE, YOU DID ALL YOU NEEDED TO! WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK!
WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOUR HUSBAND AND THANKING HIM FOR HIS SERVICE AND SACRIFICE FOR OUR FREEDOM!
RC: Tamale

Christopher T. McAndrew, is from Blue Bell, PA and comes from a military background. He graduated in 1993 from Devon Preparatory High School, he was very active in school and lettered in three Varsity sports, golf, baseball, and winter track.
He then went onto Temple University where he graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Marine Biology, and was on the golf team. After graduation, he decided not to pursue Marine Biology and went to Manor College to obtain his Certification in Veterinary Technology. He has worked as a Certified Vet Technician for twelve years now.
He has worked in a few local emergency animal hospitals, and is employed with North Penn Animal Hospital.

Post 911, Chris decided he wanted to do something to serve his country, and he joined the Army Reserves. With the 422nd Unit as an Animal Care Specialist, CVT, based in Maryland, he became a Sergeant, and has traveled throughout most of Central America, on missions, vaccinating livestock, performing and assisting in surgeries, and teaching the farmers how to keep their livestock healthy.
His first tour was a 14 month deployment to Djibouti, Africa where he traveled throughout most of the country helping the farmers and vaccinating livestock. There is a wonderful article about his mission with his picture and the Major’s on the cover of Warrior Medic Magazine, Summer 2009. In March of 2010, he was called to active duty a second time, to Afghanistan, with the 358th Medical Detachment, based out of Tuskegee, Alabama.

Since, August 21, 2010 he has been serving as an Animal Care Specialist, CVT, at Camp Leatherneck primarily and also at Kandahar Air force Base in the surgical/veterinary centers. He role has been instrumental in the intake of IED sniffing dogs, completing physicals, surgeries, and treating dogs with PTSD.
He has become very close with the Marine Dog Handlers and their animals there, most respectfully to Lt. Colton Rusk. He has just received the Army Merit Award presented to him by the Commander, highlighting his dedicated service and impeccable clinical skills.

Chris has three children, most recently a son, Colin, who is 6 1/2 months, born on Christmas Eve, and two daughters, Elizabeth, 14, and Molly, 11. All of who he loves and misses very much. His family and friends are anxiously awaiting his return sometime by the end of August, 2011.

He continues to love his hobbies, and on the weekends you can find him either fishing or golfing, and spending time with his family. His wife, Justine, loves him and misses him very much as he his her heart and soul, and is looking forward to celebrating their second wedding anniversary, together, this Halloween. 
Bio from Justine McAndrew

QUESTIONS? MORE INFO? CALL MARIA 610-327-2916

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8/21/11 WELCOME HOME
SPC. JAY QUILES

U. S. Army
Spec Jay Quiles arrived at Ft Bragg July 28th after 13 months in Afghanistan and a previous tour in Iraq. He and his wife Samantha have been at Ft Bragg securing housing since that is where he will be stationed along with their son Joey and daughter Megan. Jay’s only request when he got home was to have a BBQ. Jay’s Mother-in-Law, Robin McCarthy, saw what we do on TV and submitted a request hoping we would consider giving Jay a welcome home.
Robin you take care of the BBQ and we WILL give him a WWR & AHW, ROCK STAR, Welcome Home!!!
Date: Sunday, 8-21-2011
Rally point: Madison Ave Parking lot.
300 N Madison Ave
Lansdale, PA
Rally Time: 1230 (12:30PM)
KSU 1320 (1:20PM)

From the family:

Would like to know if you could welcome home soldier at our home as he is coming up from Ft Bragg, and we don't when they will arrive in PA. Our soldier is Spec J Quiles. Arrived Ft Bragg on Jul 23 & is spending time with wife and son until he returns here. We are planning a welcome home party for him on Sun Aug 21. We would appreciate it very much if this welcome home could be done at our house and witnessed by the whole family. Thank you for consideration, Robin McCarthy

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8/17/11 Short Notice Honor Mission for
Cpl. Nicholas Ott, KIA 

Date: Wednesday, 17 August, 2011: Cpl. Ott will be released from Dover, DE at 10:00 am. and proceed to NJ.
Rally point - John Fenwick Service Area, Oldmans, NJ (NJ Tpk mm 5.4 north)
Rally time-10:30 am
We will form a flag line as he enters, then mount up for the escort to

Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home
3010 Ridgeway Road
Manchester, NJ 08759

Date: Thursday, 18 August, 2011: We will form a flag line for viewing at
St. John's R. C. Church
619 Chestnut Street
Lakehurst, NJ 08733

3:00 pm to 8:00 pm (flag line to start at 2:30, but whatever time you can give is appreciated)
Friday, 19 August, 2011: flag line should be set by 10:30 am for the 11:00 am mass at St. John's R. C. Church.
after the mass, we will escort Cpl. Nicholas S. Ott to the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery
for the 1:00 pm Military service.
**********

8/18/11 Honor Mission
Navy SEAL Michael Strange
(UPDATED)

8/15/11 UPDATE: PO1 Michael Strange’s remains were released from Dover and escorted in a manner befitting this hero by the Philadelphia Police Department.
Dozens of MC Police and vehicles escorted Michael to the funeral home where Spring Garden Street was shut down for his arrival and he was greeted by a flag line in his honor. Follow this link to a few photos taken by a photo-journalist there today. Thank you Philadelphia Police for showing honor to this fallen Hero.
http://joekaczmarek.blogspot.com/2011/08/navy-seal-killed-in-action-returns-home.html

On behalf of Charles and Betsy – Parent’s, Chaz and Katelyn – Brother and Sister, and all the members of their family, Warriors’ Watch Rider’s support has been requested to Honor Navy SEAL, Petty Officer First Class Michael Strange who was killed in action on 8/5/2011 in Wardak Province, Afghanistan when his chopper was hit with an RPG.

Mike was a fine young man who worked hard to advance to be Petty Officer First Class as a member of Navy SEALTeam 6.
Mike loved serving His Country. He loved his family and his fiancé Bre. He loved his friends and his community and he gave his life fighting to protect them.

UDPATE!

Services have been arranged for PO1 Michael Strange as follows;

Viewing to be held Thursday 8/18/11 at 11:00 am at The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th & JFK Parkway.
Mass to begin at 3 pm after the viewing.

Military Honor Services to be conducted immediately following the mass directly outside the cathedral at Logan Square.

Warriors' Watch Rider's will escort PO1 Strange's remains from the Funeral Home to the Cathedral. We will then form a flag line, to be in place during visitation.

Rally Time: 8AM.
KSU TO FUNERAL HOME: 8:20AM
RALLY LOCATION:
BEST WESTERN HOTEL HAS GRACIOUSLY OFFERED THEIR PARKING LOT FOR OUR RALLY POINT.
501 North 22nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130-3507
LINK TO RALLY POINT

http://maps.google.com/maps/place?q=BEST+WESTERN+Center+City+Hotel&cid=8793560090781413709

**********

8/18/11 & 8/19/11 Honor Mission for
KIA Sgt. Alessandro “Sandrino” L. Plutiono, U.S. Army

*** UPDATED Aug 15 ***
Thank you all for your Patience, We held off with this information until this mission was confirmed.
We have been asked by PITMAN POLICE to NOT travel to DOVER for this Dignified Transfer. 
So we will pick up this Hero on 295 North Bound Rest Area. ( See Below)
Sgt. Alessandro “Sandrino” L. Plutino, age 28 died on August 8, 2011. Raised in Pitman, NJ he was a graduate of Pitman High School in 2001. He attended Western New England College and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from Wilkes University, Wilkes Barre, PA in 2005. Sandrino wrestled and played football at Pitman High School and wrestled at Western New England College and Wilkes University.
Sandrino was a Sergeant in the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment out of Hunter Army Airfield, Savannah, GA. Sandrino was killed in action on August 8, 2011 in Afganistan.
“He was planning to go into law enforcement — maybe the FBI, the ATF, or a state trooper,” his mother said.
Plutino was also planning to get married to Natalie Layton of Glassboro, his sweetheart for the last 10 years. “He proposed on Jan. 1, and the wedding was going to be next August,”
——————————————————
HONOR Mission Sgt. Alessandro “Sandrino” Plutino
Aug 18 Thursday
Rally Location: Rest Area 295 north bound (just pass exit 2)
GPS 39.689009,-75.473784
Rally Time: 0830
KSU: ( Depart) on arrival of KIA Sgt. Plutino escort from Dover
Escort Destination is expected to arrive at the
Kelley Funeral Home
125 Pitman Ave
Pitman, NJ 08071
Estimated arrival time: 1000After a Family Viewing we will form a flag line for transfer
Time 1245
Our Lady Queen of Peace
161 Pitman Ave
Pitman, NJ 08071
GPS 39.733138,-75.125485
After the service, Sgt. Plutino will again be transferred to
Pitman High School
225 Linden Ave
Pitman, NJ 08071
GPS 39.740731,-75.128015
for a public viewing
Flag Line Time: 1600 – 2100. 
———————–
Aug 19 Fri
Flag Line in place by 0900
After the service, 1130, Escort to cemetery interment
Destination:
Hillcrest Memorial Park
550 Delsea Drive
Sewell, NJ 08080
REMEMBER your 3X5 Flags
**********
Updates and changes: 484-679-1717
Additional info or questions, please call 610-327-2916 

---

From: maria hyland <mariahyland@comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, August 11, 2011

8/13/11 MUG ‘N HUG FOR
BRANDON COMSTOCK

We have been asked by a very good friend of Brandon Comstock (Iraq and Korean veteran) if we could help show our appreciation for his service to this country. He was discharged on 7/26 and Leslie thinks it would be great if we could quietly roll up (like we always do) and show Brandon that his service was not in vain. Well what say you can we do this ???? You bet we can.
We will be rolling up on a picnic being thrown in his honor and we will be coining him there.

Bio to follow

Date: 8/13
Rally Point: TBD
Rally Time: 3:30 PM
KSU: 4:00 PM
Final Destination: Southampton Pa.
RC for this will be our own Karen Ackley, this will be Karen’s first time.
THANK YOU for stepping up Karen!!!!

---

8/12/11 WELCOME HOME
MGYSGT JIM BABST, U.S.M.C.

MGySgt Jim Babst will be returning from a 6 month tour in Afghanistan to Phila on Friday Aug 12th. Exact time not yet confirmed, but should be in the early evening hours and we would like to request an escort to see him home where he will be greeted by family and friends. Also Jim is a Philadelphia firefighter and a good friend of mine.

Northeast Philadelphia
RC: Hogrider
Rally Time: 4:15 pm
Depart from Fire Base: 4:30 pm
Rally Location: Fire Base 69
82nd and Bartam Ave. Phila. Pa

---

From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Thursday, August 11, 2011
Subject: 8/11/11 UPDATE!!!! Lcpl Dan Akers U.S.M.C. ROYERSFORD, PA

8/11/11 UPDATE!!!!
Lcpl Dan Akers U.S.M.C.

LCpl Akers was deployed in January of 2011 and will be heading back home in August.

We’ll be there to give Daniel the welcome home he deserves and ROCK STAR TREATMENT!

LETS DO THIS! 

WHO - Lcpl Dan Akers USMC
WHAT - Welcome home /Escort /Rock star treatment
Rally Point: Royersford VFW 730 S 4th Ave, Royersford, PA 19468-2614
WHEN - Thursday 8/11/11
Rally time - 7:00 pm

Danny graduated from Spring-Ford High School in 2009. His older brother also served in the Marines. He has one younger sister who is a Sophomore at Spring-Ford High. Danny was awarded the NAM with a V(Navy Achievement Medal with a V for Valor). This was his first deployment.
He enjoys music (He recently bought a new Les Paul guitar), spending time with his many friends and sports

---

From: Maria Hyland <mariahyland@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Subject: 8/10/11 EXTREME SHORT NOTICE WELCOME HOME/Norristown, PA

Welcome Home
Ensign O’Brien, U.S. Navy
EXTREME SHORT NOTICE!!!!

Somehow missed Ensign O’Brien's coming home but its not to late to welcome home this hero!

From Jeanne, Kevin's Mom:

Kevin is returning to our home after a 6 month Deployment over seas. He is an Ensign serving on the USS Barry out of Norfolk, VA. Kevin is returning after a deployment that involved contact with Libya, they were the first to launch. Safe keeping in South Africa and peace mission in Egypt. The ship had a busy tour and we are glad to have our son home safe.

Kevin will be having dinner at his parents house on Wed 8/10 and his parents want to know if we can get some folks over there to make some noise, alarm the neighbors and give this hero the welcome home he deserves?

I know its very short notice but I think we can!!!!

LETS DO THIS!
RALLY-TBD
RALLY TIME-6:00 PM
KSU-6:45 PM

WHO WOULD LIKE TO PRESENT THIS HERO WITH OUR CERTIFICATE??

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 4, 2011
Subject: AHW - several events, please join us!

A Hero’s Welcome

Please check our website for daily updates and changes. If you would like to present the AHW certificate at any welcome home celebration, please let me know!

Thank you for your continued support; it’s a busy time of the year and we appreciate you coming out to say Thank You to our Heroes! 

8/6/11 Pocono Racetrack Veteran’s
Event for 2 Wounded Warriors

On Saturday 8/6, ECPA will be escorting one local Hero (who has had an extended stay in Walter Reed) to Pocono Racetrack, the second local hero that also had an extended stay at Walter Reed has a wedding that day and will be arriving later, where they will be given VIP treatment, including a meet and greet with Dale Jr. (driver of the Army National Guard car) Also included in the VIP treatment will be USMC SSgt. Chambers, this is the Marine who salutes for hours during Rolling Thunder in Washington DC. Since 2 men have been selected from the Wilkes Barre - Scranton area, we ask that WWR NEPA also get involved in the escort. We are seeking support in this mission. This also happens to be Nascars Official "Salute the Troops Week."

Rally Point will be at the American Legion, Gravel Pike Road, East Greenville, PA 18091 @ 7:00 AM.
There will be a ONE HOUR PHOTO OP, for anyone who wishes to have their photo taken with SSgt. Chambers in front of the 9/11 Memorial, the final resting spot for the steel from the WORLD TRADE CENTER from last years escort called the "IRON RUN" held in October of 2010.

KSU at 9:00 AM SHARP
John Cramsey will be RC
NEPA - We will pick up our VIP and meet up with the rest of the group.
Rally Point: Sheetz - 1101 O'Neill Highway - Dunmore, PA
Rally Time: 10:00 am
KSU: 10:25 am PLEASE NOTE CHANGE IN RALLY POINT
ECPA-SEPA
Rally Point: American Legion, Gravel Pike Rd., East Greenville, PA
Rally Time: 7:00 AM
KSU: 9:00 AM SHARP

The following is the Rally location and times for entire group, NEPA and those from the south

Rally Point: Dennison Township Volunteer Fire Co. Parking lot. Just north of Intersections of Susquehanna and Towanda Streets, White Haven PA
Rally Time: NOON
KSU (departure): 12:30 PM 

There is an offer for more activities Saturday and Sunday under the NEPA board.
http://forums.lutzkicksass.com/cgi-bin/forum/Blah.pl?m-1310990925/

---

8/6/11 Welcome Home
1SG Robert Lillard, U.S. Army

We have been contacted by the fiancé of 1SG Robert Lillard with the 10th Mt. Division if we could help bring her fiancé home and show how much he is appreciated for what he has sacrificed for this great country. And again you know we are suckers for Welcome Homes. We will arrive at our Hero’s home before he leaves for his vacation down the shore and both welcome him home and send him off in style. This will allow his daughters to be there as well and hopefully show them how much what there father does means to this country.

Short bio:

Robert Lillard is absolutely dedicated and believes in what he is doing. He is an amazing father and has three beautiful daughters. He loves spending time with family, cooks and makes second grade iced tea (person joke; he will love).

This is his third deployment in five years and he never complains but it always willing and able to serve his Country with utmost pride.

Not only is he a leader, but he is also dedicated to making sure his Soldiers have everything they need. He waits until they pick their R&R dates before his own.

As far as military accomplishments, I know he has many and will try to find them out secretly.

Date: 8/6
Rally Point: McDade Mall Parking Lot (2600 Macdade Blvd, Holmes, PA)
Rally Time: 11:15 AM
KSU: 11:45 AM
Final Destination: Secane, PA 19018.

---

8/6/11 Candle Light Service for KIA
MSG Kenneth Elwell, U.S. Army

As you may know MSG Kenneth Elwell, killed last week in Afghanistan, is to be interred at Arlington National Cemetery, he will not be coming home here to the Newtown area.

His family has asked the WWR to be present at a memorial service to be held up here on Saturday, August 6.

From his sister, Sue:

"I am starting to arrange for Kenny's candlelight vigil on Aug. 6, 2011 at Council Rock North High School.

I would really LOVE the presence of The Warrior's Watch for this event since this is MY last way to honor my brother Kenny. Please feel free to call me any time for any thing."

What: KIA Memorial Service
Date: August 6
RALLY - Petsmart, 2600 S EAGLE RD, NEWTOWN PA 18904
RALLY TIME - 1900 (7PM)
KSU (kick stands up) - 1930 (7:30 pm)
Service Location: Council Rock North High School.

Please watch this space for final rally point/times. Please join the WWR in standing for this American Hero.

RALLY POINT AND TIMES

We'll ride a very short distance to Council Rock North HS and set up a flag line, either at the entrance of the football field or on the track around the field.
THE VIGIL STARTS AT 8 PM.

Let’s get out and support the family of this fallen hero.

---

8/7/11 Welcome Home Lt. Robert F. Poiesz, U.S.A.F.

This one is a very special Mug-n-Hug for several reasons. We have been asked by our very on SeaBee 4 (Richard Resh) if we could help welcome home his nephew Lt. Robert F. Poiesz who is in the United States Air Force and will soon be promoted to Capt.

A party will be thrown in his honor by the family and we will be escorting him to that party in our usual quiet way.

Special part 2 one of the family members attending the party will be SeaBee4 brother who is a two tour Vietnam Vet with US Army Intel, SeaBee 4 will be coining his brother and Welcoming him home as well (long over due), So please join us on the special mission.

Short Bio:

Born in 1982, Rob (known by his family) grew up near Dulles Airport, and developed a love of airplanes at a very young age.

Rob got his private pilots license and flew for fun out of the Harrisburg area in the early 2000s, while completing his undergraduate studies at Messiah College. Just after completing his MBA at LaSalle University, in May 2007 he joined the U.S. Air Force. Rob was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant on August 10, 2007. He was assigned to Special Operations and completed his flight training at Canon Air Force Base in Enid, OK. On August 14, 2009 Rob received his wings. 

While his assignment was to fly xxxxx, he volunteered for training on xxxx and a tour of duty in Afghanistan that began January 2011. After successfully completing in excess of 130 missions, Bobby (known by his Air Force peers) is expected to return to the U.S. on August 2, 2011. On August 10, 2011 Rob will become Captain in the U.S. Air Force. He expects to have a second tour of duty abroad at the end of 2011.

Date: Aug 7th
Rallly Time: 1:30 PM
Rally Point: Brothers Restaurant at 705 Gettysburg Pike (RT 15) Mechanicsburg, Pa 17055 
KSU: 2:00 PM
Final Destination: Mechanicsburg area

Secondary Rally Point

Bensalem area
Rally Point: Cracker Barrel 
Rally Time: 10:30 AM
KSU: 11:00 AM
RC will be SeaBee 4 and this will be his first, so THANK YOU for stepping up to take this mission.

---

Welcome Home
SSgt. Lindner

RC - CanAmChris - Chris Santo

This is the end of Eric's third deployment, after his second in Iraq he went directly to Korea.
Eric is married with 3 children, the youngest of which has barely seen. He is Crew chief on F-16's.
Please join in welcoming home SSgt. Eric Linder in true Hero's Welcome style!!!

Date: Sunday, 8/7
Rally Point: Becky's Drive In: 4548 Lehigh Drive, Walnutport Pa.
Rally time: Noon KSU 1:30 PM
Destination: Neffs PA

Please call 484-679-1717 for updates or changes
610-327-2916 for additional information

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2011
Subject: AHW - Another welcome for Monday!

Monday, August 1, 2011

Welcome Home
Cpl. Thomas Kent

We have been asked by proud dad Harry Kent if we could help welcome his son Thomas home. Well, it might be a short notice but what say you, can we do this?? Well, you know we can, let's go folks! Let's get out and show this young 10th Mt. Cpl how much we appreciate his service for this country!

Short Story:

My son Cpl Thomas Kent is coming in from Afghanistan he is with the 3bct 4-25 10th Mountain out of Fort Drum NY. He is coming home to Philadelphia airport. He is on 2 week leave his wife Roseann and 2 sons are staying down here for the summer. This is Thomas's 2nd tour he was in Iraq in 2008/2009.

Bio from proud Dad:

My son Cpl Thomas Kent is from Clifton Heights, went to Upper Darby High School. He has been stationed at Fort Drum, NY for the past two years, and is with the 3BCT-4-25 10 Mountain Division. Tom first was with the 812th MP's out of Orange County, NY. He was in Iraq in 2008/2009. He shipped out again in March 2011. Tom is coming home for two weeks, then goes back until March 2012. Thomas is a Clifton Heights fireman. I am the president of the firehouse and been a member for 34 years. Tom joined when he was 16. He is 26 years old now.

Please follow this thread as soon as we get more info, we will post.
Date: Monday, August 1
Rally Point: Firehouse Engine 69 Bartram and 82nd Avenues near Island Avenue
Rally Time: TBD
KSU: TBD
Final Destination: Clifton Heights Pa.

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for PFC Michael Haines 7/30/11

Saturday 7/30/11 

Welcome Home 
PFC Michael Haines

We have been asked by the proud grandmother of PFC Michael Haines if we might be able to provide this very special Mug-n-Hug for our returning Hero.
You see, back in April, due to bad weather, our then New RC CanAm Chris was eager to bring this soldier home. Well, with only one scooter and two cages, Chris felt we could have done better in better conditions. He has kept in touch with the Grandmother and we have good news, Michael will be back in the area this Saturday July 30th celebrating his baby’s first birthday.

Short Note from RC CanAm Chris:

Marge and I would like to surprise him with another Mug-N-Hug to show our support for his continued service to our Country and help wish his baby a happy birthday.

Date: July 30th
Rally Point: Target parking lot, 2701 Castor Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 
Rally time: 2:00 PM
KSU time: 2:30 PM
Final Destination: A very proud Grandmother’s house

RC for this mission will be none other than CanAm Chris, and what a great oppurtunity to be able to do a return Mug-n-Hug for this young man. More information will follow as soon as Maria gets it from Chris

For updates: 484-679-1717 or check the website 
www.aheros-welcome.org

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for 7/27/11 and 8/1/11 Please continue to watch site daily for updates and info on upcoming welcomes!

WEDNESDAY - 7/27/11 

Please join Warriors’ Watch Riders in support of the Philadelphia Police.
They do so much for us, it’s time to give back a bit! 
Warriors' Watch Riders have been invited to attend a great and grand Philadelphia Police Department event at the steps of the Art Museum, Wednesday.

The Philly PD is re-implementing its Mounted Division, and Jimmy Binns is donating two horse trailers and a couple of Suzuki off-road motorcycles to the department. There will be a huge police presence, and all of the family of the fallen officers will be there - Cassidy, Pawalski, Murphey and so on.

The event starts at 11; we should be there about 10. 

This is a feel-good event, and there will be refreshments.
Please watch the Warriors' Watch site for updates: http://forums.lutzkicksass.com/cgi-bin/forum/Blah.pl?m-1311516344/s-new/

People in cages can of course attend, but we can't vouch for the ease of parking. It might be a better idea to go straight there, tell the PD on scene who you are with and ask them where to park.

Wear your WWR or AHW gear to identify yourselves.

MONDAY - 8/1/11

Welcome Home
Sgt. Daniel Furtak, U.S. Army

A Hero's Welcome has received a request to welcome home Army Sgt. Daniel Furtak on leave after a tour in Afghanistan. The request came from his mother Carol Furtak. She knows what we can do since we welcomed home her other son Brian last year!

From Carol Furtak;
Great news !!! My son, Sgt. Daniel Furtak is off the front lines. He has been in Germany serving in Afghanistan for two terms now. He is now stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC and is finally getting leave to come home the first of August. I would Love to have A Hero's Welcome for him as you did such a wonderful job on his brother Brian last April 2010.
He deserves a big surprise. Thank you for all you do for all these soldiers. GOD BLESS, Carol Furtak, Conshohocken, PA

THIS FAMILY HAS CERTAINLY DONE ITS PART SERVING OUR COUNTRY! LET'S GET OUT AND SHOW THIS SOLDIER HOW MUCH WE APPRECIATE HIS SERVICE!

Who: Army Sgt. Daniel Furtak
What: Welcome Home Escort
Where: Conshohocken
When: Monday 8/1
Rally Location: TBD
Rally Time: TBD
Watch Site for updates on time and location:

http://aheros-welcome.org/blog/wp-admin/post.php?post=1562&action=edit
RC: Tamale.

 Thanks Pat!!!

Please call my cell 610-327-2916 with any questions and484-679-1717 for updates and changes

---

From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Monday, July 18, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome.. Lots of Summer Fun!

Hello A Hero's Welcome Volunteers!
Summer is now in full force..
THE HEAT IS ON…
and so are our
Welcome Home Celebrations!

We need you now more than ever..

It's important that our Troops know YOU will be here to see them home with all the bells and whistles.

They have earned a Rock Star Treatment and that's what they are going to get.. each and every one!

Please watch our website daily for updates as they are changing every day!

Please call the AHW hotline # before leaving for the airport, I will update this phone message as changes come in.

484-679-1717: if there is no updated message, the welcome is on schedule.

This week we are planning the following welcomes; please see our site www.aheros-welcome.org
For more info on each Hero and times/locations of the events.

7/21/11 Welcome home SPC. JOSEPH GRASSO
7/21/11 Welcome Home Capt. Michael Maricle, U.S. Army

7/22/11 Welcome Home HM Ray Hatcher, U.S. Navy
7/22/11 Welcome Home LCpl. Christopher Ginet, U.S.M.C

7/24/11 Welcome Home LCpl. Justin Degen, U.S.M.C.
8/1/11 Welcome Home Sgt. Daniel Furtak, U.S. Army

I welcome anyone who would like to present the AHW certificate to our Hero. It's a wonderful feeling to personally greet the Soldier, Marine, Airman, Sailor and look them in the eye and really say "Thank You"!

Thank you for all you continually do to support our Troops AND THEIR FAMILIES!!!

For more info or questions: Maria Hyland 610-327- 2916. 

---

7/16/11

WELCOME HOME
SR. AIRMAN MICAH, U.S. AIR FORCE

We received a request from an Air Force Mom to bring her son home in Rock Star style! And that’s what we’ll do! 
Our Airman just returned to the states from Afghanistan and is waiting to see his family and friends at a picnic at his Grandmom’s home in Phoenixville, PA. Stay tuned for rally times and locations. 

Rally date: 7/16/11
Rally time: approx 6:30 pm WATCH WWW.AHEROS-WELCOME.ORG FOR UPDATES
Rally Location: TBA / Phoenixville, PA
NO MEDIA PLEASE AT THE REQUEST OF THE FAMILY!

---

7/16/11

Welcome Home
Spc. Alan Solie, U.S. Army

This is definitely a cool request that starts with a welcome home we did last year on Memorial Day for Spc Vinnie Violi.

Vinnie was so impressed with his reception that he put in a request for us to Welcome Home a Brother Soldier (his battle buddy!) from Wisconsin that will be on leave visiting the Violi family.

Below is the request we received from Spc. Vinnie Violi;

My name is SPC Vincent Violi', last year i had the experience and support of a lifetime when you all welcomed me home before my deployment...I have now returned back from iraq, and will be heading home to Philly on July 16...My battle buddy SPC Alan Solie is coming home with me..He is from Wisconsin..I would love for him to see the support and feel the love, that i have experience...It would mean so much to him.....Lets bring this hero home...
Thank you so much SP Vincent Violi

THIS SHOWS US HOW IMPORTANT OUR MISSION IS AND THE POSITIVE IMPACT IT HAS ON OUR SERVICEMEMBER'S! LET'S SHOW SPC. ALAN SOLIE HOW MUCH WE APPRECIATE HIS SERVICE!

Who: Army Spc. Alan Solie
What: Welcome Home from deployment to Iraq
When: Saturday 7/16
Rally Location: FB 69
Rally Time: 7:45 am
KSU to Airport: 8:30 AM
Escort from PHL to Drexel Hill

RC: Can Am Chris

---

From: 'Maria Hyland' <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome/lots coming uo the next few days.. please, try and join us on some or all, let our Troops know we're here for them!!!

7/15/11
Welcome Home
PFC Wildsmith, U.S. Army

PFC Wildsmith will arrive home on FRIDAY, JULY 15.
Date: Friday July 15, 2011
RALLY TIME 1:30 pm
DEPART RALLY POINT AT 2:30pm
Depart airport: approx 3:20 PM
ESCORT DESTINATION: NE PHILLY, NEAR COTTMAN AVE /BLVD

We have been asked by the mom of Army PFC Mark Wildsmith (cool name!) to welcome home that belove’d son to Philadelphia in the 2nd week of July!
Mark is PFC, 4th Infantry Division, 1-66 Raider Brigade. His home base is Fort Carson, Colorado. He is just 20 years old, and is returning from combat as a Saw Gunner with his squad. He has been deployed since October of last year, and is very excited to be coming home. He called his family today to let them know that his tour is over and he will be leaving Afghanistan and heading back to America. His squad leader told them that they have walked 509+ miles in the time they spent defending our freedom!

Mark is a Philly boy! He is also a fan of the Philadelphia Police Department like we are. His uncle is active in the Philly K-9 unit.

Mark’s mom, Susan, writes, “Mark is a wonderful, honorable man who loves his friends and famliy. He hopes to join the Philadelphia Police when he comes home for good, as his Uncle, is in Philly K9 and his grandpop is retired. He is proud of what he has accomplished in the last year, and has absolutely no regrets in joining the Army.”
And we have absolutely no regrets in welcoming Mark home as only the Warriors’ Watch/A Hero’s Welcome team can do!
RC for this mission is: Lutz

RALLY TIME-1345 (1:45 PM)
KSU (kick stands up) - approx 1420 (2:20 pm)

LETS DO THIS !

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wed, July 6, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome 7/9/11 LCpl Mike Molina, USMC Souderton, PA

Welcome Home
LCpl Mike Molina, U.S.M.C. 

Last October we received a request from Denice Molina to Welcome Home her son from deployment to Bahrain and Cuba. Plans changed at the last minute and we were unable to coordinate with the family.

Now LCpl Mike Molina is home on leave after being deployed to Kuwait, Jordan & Africa.

Mike is deploying to Afghanistan a week after his leave ends.

The family will be holding a party for him at a local park and would like us to surprise him with a Mug 'n Hug, and escort him to his party.

Who: Marine LCpl Mike Molina
What: Mug 'n Hug Escort
When: Saturday July 9, 2011
Where: Franconia Park Souderton (Entrance for Small Pavillion area) 
589 Godshall Rd, Telford, PA
Rally Time: 12:00 noon

Tom’s sister served in Iraq as a Marine, my father was a career Marine & my Uncle a careeer Navy! So military service is highly esteemed by both sides of the family!

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Mon, July 4, 2011
Subject: AHW: Two Send-off's and One Welcome!

Watch for www.aheros-welcome for updates on these and upcoming events.

July 7, 2011 Send off 
LCpl. Thomas J. Boran, U.S.M.C.
Havertown to PHL

Rally Time: TBA approx 7:30 pm
Rally Location: TBA/Havertown, PA area

COME ON AHW….LET’S GIVE THIS HERO AND HIS FAMILY OUR SUPPORT TO HELP THEM GET THROUGH THIS DEPLOYMENT!! 

MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOW. Please watch this site for updates on location and times. 

The Small family is having a barbecue/ send off party for their son-in- law, Tom on Thursday, July 7th. Tom will be leaving for his first deployment after this leave. The Small family has become familiar with A Hero’s Welcome after attending 2 welcome home celebrations in the Havertown area. 

From Mary Small: 

After seeing the tremendous outpouring of support, I thought that the same incredible support would really help my son-in-law and my daughter as well. They are fairly recently married and are now expecting their first child (but, unfortunately, Tom will be in Afghanistan when the baby is due.) These last few months of separation have been difficult on both of them. (Though stationed in Camp LeJeune, he trained in Virginia and California in preparation for this deployment.) 

Tom’s sister served in Iraq as a Marine, my father was a career Marine & my Uncle a career Navy! So military service is highly esteemed by both sides of the family!

Thank you for all that you do! Peace & Blessings, Mary Small

---

7/?/11 Welcome Home 
PFC Mark Wildsmith, U.S. Army

We have been asked by the mom of Army PFC Mark Wildsmith (cool name!) to welcome home that beloved son to Philadelphia in the 2nd week of July!

Mark is PFC, 4th Infantry Division, 1-66 Raider Brigade. His home base is Fort Carson, Colorado. He is just 20 years old, and is returning from combat as a Saw Gunner with his squad. He has been deployed since October of last year, and is very excited to be coming home. He called his family today to let them know that his tour is over and he will be leaving Afghanistan and heading back to America. His squad leader told them that they have walked 509+ miles in the time they spent defending our freedom!

Mark is a Philly boy! He is also a fan of the Philadelphia Police Department like we are. His uncle is active in the Philly K-9 unit.

Mark's mom, Susan, writes:

Mark is a wonderful, honorable man who loves his friends and family. He hopes to join the Philadelphia Police when he comes home for good, as his Uncle is in Philly K9 and his grandpop is retired. He is proud of what he has accomplished in the last year, and has absolutely no regrets in joining the Army.

And we have absolutely no regrets in welcoming Mark home as only the Warriors' Watch/A Hero's Welcome team can do!

We have a little time in this one, so PLEASE stay tuned for exact arrival/rally/escort info. His family is excited, his neighborhood is excited, Philly and the Philly WWR are excited!

RC for this mission is: Lutz

Welcome Home, PFC Mark Wildsmith!

Please call 484-679-1717 for updates and changes and Maria @ 610-327-2916 for more info

---

JULY 5, 2011 Sendoff 
for Christopher Egan 
Lansdowne, PA area to PHL

Date: July 5
Rally Point: TBD
RALLY TIME: 10:00AM
KSU: 10:30AM
Escort From: Lansdowne Area
Destination: Philadelphia International Airport

Well, it’s said not all good plans go as we expect. We were originally asked to help send off Christopher Egan in August. Well, duty calls a bit earlier and Christopher's deployment date has been moved forward.

At his Uncle’s request, who, by the way, is a disabled Vietnam Veteran, Bruce Egan would like us to escort his nephew to the airport for a proper send off.

He would like his nephew to realize how much his service to his country means to so many, and that it is certainly appreciated by as many as well.

There will be more information after WWR speaks with the Uncle, so please stay tuned for updates.

---

WHO-Christian Sirianni
WHAT-Mug-n-Hug/escort
WHERE-Phila area to Bensalem area
WHEN- Sat 6/25/11
RALLY-CRACKERBARREL, NESHAMINY EXT OF THE PA TURNPIKE
RALLY TIME-10:45 am
KSU-11:30 am

Welcome Home
Christian Sirianni, U.S. Army

Warriors' Watch has asked us to join in the welcome home celebration for Christian Sirianni, US Army

WE'D LOVE TO!!!!

This request is for the son of a Philadelphia Police officer. Christian's father is a member of the Phila police crime scene unit.

We'll be escorting Mr Sirianni's son Christian from his house to a luncheon with his wife and father.

Time to give back to this HERO and his dad for keeping us safe and defending our FREEDOM.

If you would like to present the AHW certificate to our Hero, please let me know.

I'd love to have someone from the Bensalem area present this to Christian. This is one of your home town heroes!!! 

FROM Christian's Dad:

My son is home here in Philadelphia, PA for just a few short weeks from a long tour in Kabul, Afghanistan. On June 25th, 2011 @ 1200 hours I would like a greet & escort from his house to another location where I am taking him and his wife out for a lunch. He has been home here in Philly for the past few weeks now, but a very good friend of mine from the Centurions MC (Philadelphia) also a Warrior Watcher (Mike Cotter) advise me to give my son something that he will not forget. He will be going back to Fort Hood, Texas on June 29, 2011, so I would like to put this surprise greet, escort and luncheon together in his honor!! I am a member of the Philadelphia Police Crime Scene Unit and I think this is OUTSTANDING what you men & women are doing for our troops!! 

Listed below are some facts: Christian Adam Sirianni U.S. Army Military Police 1st Platoon 401st MP CO 720th MP Batallen 89th MP Brigade Fort Hood, Texas 

From: Philadelphia, PA
High School: Mercy Vocational High School Class 2007

He has an awesome wife named Juliana Sirianni, an amazing son named Brandon and a beautiful daughter named Isabella. He Just Arrived Home From Kabul, Afghanistan For 30 Days And Then Back To Fort Hood, Texas Until Further Assignments.

Thank You So Much!! Ronald Sirianni Crime Scene Investigator Crime Scene Unit Philadelphia Police Department

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Thu, June 23, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome 6/24 and 6/25

Welcome Home & Escort for
Tyler Wilson/PHL to NJ

We have been asked to welcome home Tyler Wilson by his family, and that’s just what we are gonna do!!!

Date: Friday 6/24/11
Rally point: FB 69 (82nd and Bartram ave Phila. pa)
Rally time: 2:20 pm
KSU / Depart for the airport: 3:10 pm
RC Lil (a heros welcome)

Bio from Tyler's father: Hi, my name is Marc Wilson and my son Tyler is returning from Afghanistan on June 24th.

After a 11 month deployment with Eagle Co. 2/2 Stryker Calvary Regiment. Tyler is a graduate of West Deptford high school in 2008 were he enjoyed running track. He chose service because he felt like he needed a challenge and a better paying job and a opportunity to get a college education paid for by the Army. Tyler is witty, funny, but still a young 21yr. old.

questions: contact Lil 856-5533534

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Mon, June 20, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for Ryan Green, US Army Wed. 6/22/11 / please let me know if you'd like to join in this welcome home

WELCOME HOME RYAN GREEN,
U.S. ARMY!!!!

When: Wed. June 22, 2011
RALLY POINT: ENGINE 69 FIRE HOUSE, BARTRAM AVE AT ISLAND AVE
RALLY TIME: 12:30 PM
WITH DEPARTURE TO THE AIRPORT AT 1:15 PM

A very excited Mom of Ryan Green, United States Army, would like us to help her celebrate the safe return of her so n from Afghanista n.

Ryan is an Infantryman. He is now safe in Germany after almost a year in Afghanistan. He will be flying in to Philadelphia from Frankfurt this Wednesday, the 22 n d. (More bio info will be added shortly)

Ryan's mom, Mary, says that Ryan "took a short leave in April, and I was the only one to greet him at the airport, after a grueling 4-day journey back home!! it felt terrible... this time I want to do something for him to show appreciation for his service and his sacrifice!"

"No America n Soldier should have only one person greet him/her at the Airport. It just ain't right! Not in this Age of the WWR!" Wayne Lutz 

Following the greeting at the airport, we well escort Ryan and his family to the mom's home in Willow Grove, very near the Willow Grove entrance to the turnpike (Home is on 611 just south of Fitzwatertown)

RC for this mission is a new guy, Lutz. Help him out - he's easily confused.

WELCOME HOME FROM WAR, RYAN! 

CALL 484-679-1717 FOR UPDATES AND CHANGES/IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL MY CELL AT 610-327-2916 (THANKS!!!) 

---

From: Maria <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tue, June 14, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for Cpl. Matt Panella, USMC 6/15/11

Welcome Home
Cpl Matt Panella, USMC

We have been contacted by the proud father of Matt to see if we can assist in welcoming home his son after he completes his 2nd tour of Afghanistan. You bet we said yes and it is our honor to do so. Please join us in welcoming Home Matt. By the way our own “Meatball” is a family member and will be RC’ing this one.

Short Bio:

Matt is a Corporal in the US Marine Corp. He graduated from Archbishop Ryan High School in Philadelphia.

He started college at Community College of Philadelphia for 2 years before joining the marines.

Being a marine is something he has always wanted and needed to do. So he put his college degree on hold to serve his country.

He is based out in Camp Pendleton Marine base in California for the last 3 years.

He is assigned to the Ordnance division of HMLA-169.

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Fri, June 10, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for 3 Vietnam Vets 6/12/11

JUNE 12, 2011 

LONG OVERDUE WELCOME HOME FOR 3

Warriors Watch's own Donnie Jones has requested a long overdue welcome home for 3 Vietnam Vets. Donnie is a member of the Bucks County Motorcycle Association (BCMA).

BCMA have helped us and been there on many missions. It's time for a payback.

The 3 heroes we'll be honoring are:

Jessie Hill, US Army
Edward Sabol, USMC 
Fernando Talado, US Army

Let these 3 heroes know what they did and what they sacrificed, didn't go unnoticed.

Donnie has stepped up to RC this mission -

Thanks, Brother!

RALLY-BRISTOL TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 2501 Bath Rd, Bristol Pa 19007
RALLY TIME-11:30am
KSU-12:00 noon 

Our destination will be: Falls Twp Community Park, 9070 Millcreek Rd, Levittown, PA 19054

Mission request from Donnie Jones:

I would like to request a mission thanking 3 Vietnam Veterans, not only for their service to our country, but to the veteran community and their families:

Jesse Hill- 1st Cav, US ARMY, Edward Sabol, USMC and Fernando (Ferdie) Talado, US Army. 

I would be honored to R/C these 3 gents who have spent decades helping veterans and their families. I would like to honor them at the

26th Annual Flag Memorial in Falls Twp 

(65,000 American flags honoring American KIAs and POW-MIAs). The Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans (DV3) will be having a closing ceremony for their 26th annual flag memorial including a repatriate ceremony for American POWs who have been returned this year. 

The flag memorial begins 9:00am Friday, June 10 with the "planting" of 65,000 3" X 5" American flags and ends with a ceremony and music on 3:00pm Sunday, June 12. A day of reflection is on Saturday, June 11. I invite all of you to see it. It is a very moving experience.

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wed, June 8, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome 6/10/11 Welcome Home PFC Brent Moore, US Army

WELCOME HOME FOR
Pfc BRENT MOORE U.S. ARMY
6/10/11 FLAG LINE only 

We received a request from our Hero’s Aunt to give her brave nephew a “Hero’s Welcome!” and that we will do! Please bring your American Flag and let’s show Brent how much his service means to US!!!! 

Date: Friday June 10, 2011
Rally Time: 2:00 pm
Depart for PHL: 2:40 pm
Rally location: FB Engine 69 / 82nd & Bartram Ave., Philadelphia, PA

Please join us along with Brent’s family at the Phila. International Airport and wish our Hero a very happy “WELCOME HOME” 

Bio from Brent’s aunt:

My nephew, PFC Brent Moore, is returning from deployment to Afghanistan where he was injured, received the Purple Heart, but insisted on going right back into combat after a few short weeks of medical treatment. He arrives home for a month R&R on June 10 at Phila International at 3 pm. 

Please help us welcome our hero!!

Questions or more info: 610-327-2916/Maria

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, June 1, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Welcome Home Cpl. Chad Hardy, USMC 6/3/11 ONE MORE FOR THIS WEEKEND!!!

6/3/11 Welcome Home
Cpl. Chad Hardy, U.S.M.C.

VERY SPECIAL WELCOME HOME
FOR THE HARDY FAMILY

We’ve been asked to do a very special welcome home for Cpl Chad Hardy, USMC.
Date: 6/3/11
RALLY-TBD
RALLY TIME-1730 (5:30 pm)
KSU-1800 (6 pm)

Keep an eye on the AHW website for upcoming info:

We’ll be picking Chad up at the G.O. Carlson airport in Coatesville Pa. From there we’ll escort this HERO to his nearby home.

This is a very special welcome home for the family and for Chad. 

On 4/28/06 Chad's older brother, Brandon, was KIA in Al Anbar, Iraq while supporting Iraqi Freedom.

A Hero’s Welcome and the Warriors Watch Riders are going to make this a big one for Chad and for the sacrifices this family has made for our freedom.
Ken Link, (Marine dad) has stepped up to RC – THANKS FOR TAKING THE LEAD ON THIS ONE

Chad’s bio

Chad was born 10/1/89. He always wanted to follow in his big brother's footsteps- hunting, fishing, loving PSU football, Phillies and being a Marine.

Chad graduated from Octorara Area High School 6/11/08 and left for Parris Island on 6/15/08. Graduated boot camp on 9/12/08 as Private 1st Class. His MOS training for artillery @Ft. Sill, OK. Stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC. Left for Kajaki, Afghanistan 11/5/10.

Returned to Camp Lejeune, N.C. USA on 5/29/11!!!

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wed, May 25, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome... Marine LCpl Patrick Smith.... 5/28/11 OOO RAH!!

WELCOME HOME
LCPL SMITH

We have a request to escort a 3rd generation Marine, LCpl Patrick Ryan Smith.
We'll be picking up the LCpl and escorting him to his Philadelphia home. Patrick's Dad and Grandfather also served in the USMC
We'll get out and give Patrick the WWR ROCK STAR TREATMENT.
What better way to start off Memorial day weekend ?

LETS DO THIS!!!

WHO-LCpl Patrick Smith
WHAT- Rockstar treatment/escort
WHERE-PHL to Phila area
WHEN-Sat 5/28/11

RALLY LOCATION - ENGINE 69 Bartram Ave, Phila Pa
RALLY TIME-0945 (9:45 AM)
KSU-1030 (10:30 AM)

Ken Link (Marine dad) has stepped up to RC-Thanks Ken

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wed, May 25, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome... Marine LCpl Patrick Smith.... 5/28/11 OOO RAH!!

WELCOME
HOME LCPL SMITH

We have a request to escort a 3rd generation Marine, LCpl Patrick Ryan Smith.
We'll be picking up the LCpl and escorting him to his Philadelphia home. Patrick's Dad and Grandfather also served in the USMC.

We'll get out and give Patrick the WWR ROCK STAR TREATMENT.
What better way to start off Memorial day weekend ?

LETS DO THIS !!!

WHO-LCpl Patrick Smith
WHAT- Rockstar treatment/escort
WHERE-PHL to Phila area
WHEN-Sat 5/28/11

RALLY LOCATION -ENGINE 69 Bartram Ave, Phila Pa
RALLY TIME-0945 (9:45 AM)
KSU-1030 (10:30 AM)

Ken Link (Marine dad) has stepped up to RC-Thanks Ken

---

From: A. Accardi [mailto:andread50@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, May 22, 2011 9:29 PM
Subject: A Hero's Welcome will join the Warriors' Watch Riders for Honor Mission on 5/24/11

5/24/11 Honor Mission for
Army KIA 1st. Lt. Demetrius M. Frison

Details of our participation to come.

Rally Point: McDonald’s 4200 N Broad St. Phila., Pa. 19140
Rally Time: 8:00 am on Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Warriors’ Watch Rider’s had been contacted by the wife of a Fallen Soldier to stand honor guard and escort her husband to his final resting place. Mikki Frison, wife of Army KIA 1st Lt. Demetrius M. Frison, has requested our support. A Hero’s Welcome will join WWR in this honor mission. Please watch this post for updates. Thank you.

1st Lt. Frison is survived by his wife of two years, Mikki, and their 6-month-old son Christopher Kenneth.

News Release Thursday, May 12, 2011

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

1st Lt. Demetrius M. Frison, 26, died May 10 in Khost province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Knox, Ky.

Read more

http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/388739#ixzz1N78WMPwC

Article from Philly.com

http://articles.philly.com/2011-05-12/news/29536451_1_first-combat-tour-toy-soldiers-afghanistan

Check our website at www.aheros-welcome.org

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, May 18, 2011 1:24:04 PM
Subject: A Hero's Welcome events for May 21, 2011. 3 in a row!!!

Bridge Dedication for
PFC Joseph Lannon, KIA in Vietnam

We have a request from Jim Hartman for a presence of support at the dedication of a bridge in Hatboro, Pa. for PFC Joseph Lannon USMC.
State Rep. Tom Murt will be dedicating the bridge in his honor.
Many of you know Rep. Murt from other activities that the AHW / WWR has been involved with. 

Rep. Tom Murt is a U.S. Army Veteran that we have honored in the past.

PFC Joseph Lannon was KIA in Vietnam in 1968. It's a long time coming.
Let's get out and show our support for this family and the Marine who gave his life for his country!!

Saturday May 21, 2011 
Ceremony is at 10:00am.
Rally point: 9:00am, 1001 York Rd. Hatboro, Pa
(Benjamin Foods Parking lot)
KSU: 9:40
Destination: Millers Meadow Bridge, Hatboro, PA
RC: Ironeagle (Chas)

---

Welcome Home at
"Walk for the Wounded"

What: Walk for the Wounded Fundraiser for wounded, injured and critically ill military.
When: Saturday May 21, 2011
Rally Time: 11:15 a.m. 
Where: Rosetree Park in Media PA 1671 N Providence Rd Media, PA 19063

There are two entrances on N. Providence Road, we will be at the entrance closest to Rt. 1. 
Please bring your American Flags so we can form a flag line as the Wounded Heroes are escorted into the park. 

The Warriors' Watch Riders will be escorting Cpl. Love and 11 other Wounded Warriors' into this event. Please let me know if you will be attending this event. You can post your response below under "COMMENTS" 
We want to make this entrance a site our Heroes will not forget! 
Thank you! 

---

Mug-n-Hug for
14 WWII Veterans

We have a request by one of our own, Tamale, to do a mug-n-hug for 14, count em, 14 Veterans.

They live at the Hidden Meadows On The Ridge (assisted living) Sellersville, Pa.

Tamale's very own father is one of the heroes we'll be honoring.

WHO-14 HEROES!!!
WHAT-GOOD OLE' WWR MUG-N-HUG
WHERE-Hidden Meadows On The Ridge (assisted living) Sellersville, Pa. 340 Farmers Lane, Sellersville, PA 18960

WHEN-5/21/11 
Rally Point: DEAN'S HARLEY DAVIDSON
3255 STATE RD, SELLERSVILLE PA 18960

Rally Time: 2:30 pm
Depart for Mug n Hug: 2:45 pm

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, May 4, 2011

Welcome Home
LCpl James Csoka, USMC

We have a request from Brittany Csoka (pronounced choka) to Welcome her Marine husband home from Afghanistan.

UPDATE: Jame is having problems getting out of Afghanistan. Please stand by for updates, times, locations for this welcome home!!!! See below from Brittany:

Hello, My name is Brittany Csoka and my husband is currently in Afghanistan. He will be coming home on May 6, 2011. His mother has no idea about her son’s return, and she thinks that I will be going to Okinawa to see him. His flight does not arrive until xxxpm on May 6, and we will be going to surprise her. When he came home from Okinawa in the past, you guys were at the airport, not for him but a few others that were returning to the states. At that moment in time, the gentleman that I had spoken with had told me to get in contact with him when he does return home from his deployment. I guess what I was just wondering was if there was any way possible that somehow you guys can be there? We live in Lancaster Pennsylvania. I really look forward to hearing back from you.

After reading that, how could we not wait to help her welcome this Marine home!
Then we got down to the details. Her husband's flight lands in Harrisburg.
We’d like to work something out and we aren’t yet sure what we will do.
Lancaster is closer and we may set up something where we meet them closer to their home. All that is TBD.
This would be a 7 pm ish escort on a Friday night, so it could work for those of us that are adventurous. We’re looking for feedback to see how many of us are adventurous enough to put this together.
Gpopps is willing to RC and will move forward with this mission if it looks like we can support it. Can we?
FYI, below is a link to where we would be near for you to get an idea of the ride. 

Thanks
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=…..amp;z=15&iwloc=A

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, May 4, 2011

Welcome Home
LCpl Michael Williamson, USMC
Croydon, PA

Date: 5/7/2011
Rally Point: TBD
Rally Time: Approx 1:45
PM KSU: Approx 2:40 PM
Final Destination: Croydon Pa, area

Okay folks here it is: another chance to welcome home a young Marine after serving his country in Afghanistan. We have been asked by the very proud Uncle of LCPL Williamson if we could help him show his nephew how proud he is of him.
Well you know the answer gang!! YES!!! We would be honored to assist in any way possible to show this young Marine how much we appreciate his duty to this country.

The plan will be to meet up at a rally point to be determined and then go pick up our Marine who will already be home and escort him like the Rock Star he is to a gathering in his honor.

Short Personal Bio:

I can say now, Michael isn’t my blood nephew, he is my brother’s step son but, I always treated him as my own flesh & blood. Growing up he liked camping out, fishing & other outdoor sports. Even though he lives in Pa, the man likes the NY Giants… why I can’t tell you. But I love him anyway he always was very respectful to me every birthday, holiday or whenever there was a cake one of us was wearing it.

Hey, just cause he is a Giant’s fan he is a Marine first and foremost to us.

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, May 4, 2011

Welcome Home SSgt. Dave Brown, Bordentown, NJ

Rally Time: 1230
Rally Location: Town and Country Diner, Rt 130, Bordentown, NJ
KSU: 1300 ( Depart for VFW post with our Hero)

Wife, Sandy, is planning a Welcome Home Celebration 
After she has taken our hero out to eat, then over to a local VFW where they will be joined by Friends, Family, neighbors and Loved ones and she is asking the WWR to assist in making this a Great celebration with an escort and that special Mug&Hug that she has heard about.

How can we say no??? 

SSGT Dave Brown comes from a long history of Military volunteers.
RC… BIG GUN ”Vance” Thanks for stepping up brother.
When our Hero DEPARTS the Diner… We are gonna ROCK him with cheers and that Mug and Hug. Whooohooooo

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, May 4, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome / upcoming welcome home celebrations !!! Please join us... We need YOU!!!!

Welcome Home
Spc. AJ Euganeo, US Army
Sharon Hill, PA

We have been reached by the proud Mom of SPC Euganeo and she was wondering if we could help her welcome her son home from his first deployment.

Well by now you know the answer was yes, we are suckers for Welcome Homes for our HEROES.

Our Hero SPC AJ Euganeo will be returning this Friday from his first tour in the sandbox and mom would love nothing more than to be able to show her son how much what has done means to so many.

We will be Welcoming our Hero at the Philly airport and then a short escort to his hometown Sharon Hill.

Short Bio:

AJ is a 2008 graduate of Monsignor Bonner High School. He enlisted with the Army in Feb. 2009 and after Basic/AIT and Airborne School at Fort Benning, he was stationed at Fort Campbell, KY. While at Fort Campbell he completed Air Assault School. In May, 2010, AJ was deployed to the Kandahar region of Afghanistan where he served for 11 months with the 101st Airborne Division, 1-502 Infantry Regiment, Delta Company. While there, he participated in Operations Dragon Strike, Dragon Descent and Dragon Wrath. In August of 2010, AJ was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge by Congressman Shuster (PA) who was visiting the troops at the time. Along with myself and AJ's dad, his return is being celebrated by his two sisters, Katie and Bethany, his nephew Brady, Bethany's fiancee, Vinny, and AJ's grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends. AJ's two grandfathers both served our country: one in the Army during WWII, the other in the Navy during WWII and Korea. Needless to say we are all very proud of AJ's service to our country. 

Date: 5/6/2011
Rally Time: 1:30 PM
Rally Point: FB69
KSU: 2:40
Final Destination: Sharon Hill Pa. (Delaware County)

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, May 4, 2011

Welcome Home LCpl Logan Innes, USMC / Drexel Hill, PA

more info to follow

Who - LCPL Logan Innes, USMC
What - Escort and ROCKSTAR TREATMENT
Where - PHL to Drexel Hill area
When - Friday 5/6/11

Guys and girls, we have an earlier welcome home at the airport on Friday but there's plenty of time to get both HEROES greeted and escorted home. 

LETS DO IT !

RALLY - ENGINE 69
RALLY TIME - 1800 (6 PM)
KSU - 1825 (6:25 PM)

Stay tuned for Logan's bio!!!

---

From: Maria <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Thu, April 21, 2011
Subject: A Hero's WElcome 4/23/11 (1of 2) Welcome Home LCpl. Kevin Daly, Jr. USMC

Welcome Home LCpl. Kevin Daly, Jr. USMC

If you remember LCPL Daly is the young Marine that missed his flight home on Monday. Well, the good news is, he did arrive home safe and sound, the other good news is we will be making some noise Saturday and picking this young Marine up along with his family and escorting him to a celebration being held in his honor at Dagwood’s Pub in the Great North East. Please join us in this much deserved welcome home celebration for Kevin Daly, Jr. 

Date: 4/23/2011
Rally Location: Grandstand Academy Shopping Center
Rally Time: 3:00 PM
KSU: 3:50 PM
Final Destination: Dagwood’s Pub


We have been contacted by the proud father of LCPL Kevin Daly Jr. USMC to help Welcome his son home from his tour in Afghanistan. 

Kevin has arrived @ Camp Lejeune and will be returning to the Philly area. 

Let’s give Kevin the “Rock Star” treatment!!!

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Thu, April 14, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Welcome Home Sgt. Rivera 4/15/11 and HN Keith McGarrigle 4/17/11

TWO WELCOME HOME HEROES !!!

Welcome Home Sgt. Rafael V. Rivera
FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2011

WELCOME HOME, SGT. RIVERA, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICES!
We have a request from One Of Our Own! T’s brother, CJ, has requested a Welcome Home Escort for his son, Sgt Rafael Rivera.

When: Friday 4/15/11
Where: Stroudsburg, PA
Rally Location: Schoch Harley Davidson 4300 Manor Drive
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Link to Google Map of Location: 
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=…..amp;z=18&iwloc=A
Rally Time: 12:00 noon
T will be RC on this one. 

PLEASE NOTE: There will be two “secondary” rally points as we head to Schoch HD Dealers in Stroudsburg - 

FIRST: will be the Shell gas station and car wash on Rt 611(S) just south of PA turnpike. We’ll rally there at 0900 (9:00am) and go KSU at 0915 (9:15am). ( post so we know who to wait for) 

SECOND: we'll get on PA Turnpike West and proceed to 476 North where we will pull into ouR second stop - the Allentown rest stop on 476 North. Rally there at 10:15am and go KSU at 10:30 am headed for Stroudsburg and the Harley Dealer. ( rally time for Schoch’s is 1200hrs- noon).

Under PA State Police escort, we will all set the flag line and wait for our “package” and take a short ride to his home.

A message from CJ:

I'd like to welcome home my son who served two tours in Iraq. Sgt. Rafael Victor Rivera, having served his country for nine years, is finally on his way home. We love and missed him dearly and are thankful for all he has done to keep America, America. He is due back in the Poconos the second week in April.
Side note: CJ is T's brother which means Sgt. Rivera, T's nephew.

Weather is lookin' good, nice day for a great cause. Hope to see ‘ya there! 
This will be the first time NE PA, East Central PA and SE Pa will have a chance to pull together. Many reasons to celebrate this homecoming ! As my friend from Georgia would say….” Let's make it BIG !”

---

Welcome Home HN Keith McGarrigle, US Navy
Sunday, April 17, 2011

WELCOME HOME US NAVY HN KEITH MCGARRIGLE and A SUPER THANK YOU!

What: Escort to Welcome Home Party
When: Sunday 4/17/2011
Where: Penn Treaty Park to Doc's Bar @ 2nd and Miflin
Rally Location: Penn Treaty Park 1199 N Delaware Ave
Link to Rally Location: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=.....931&t=h&z=15
Rally Time: 12:45pm
Keith arrives: 1:30 pm
KSU to Doc's Bar: 1:45pm

We've received a request to welcome home Navy HN (Hospitalman) Keith McGarrigle upon his return from deployment in Afghanistan.

From Navy Mom Tricia Corapi,

My son Keith McGarrigle is 21 yrs old who just returned from his first tour in Afghanistan. He was there a long seven months......his birthday is March 2, 1990. He graduated from P.E.T High School & enlisted in the US Navy.
He went through schooling to become a Corpsman. He was stationed in Japan his first year and a half, then was assigned to the U.S.M.C Unit A. 1/8. Keith has a sister who is also his best friend Briana (22), half-sister Alana (5) and half-brother Bobby (3). 


Please call 484-679-1717 for updates and 610-327-2916 for more info

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Tue, April 5, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome SPC. Jorge M. Mercado, US Army 4/9/11

WELCOME HOME 
U.S. ARMY SPC. JORGE M. MERCADO

Date: 4/9/2011
Time: 4:00 PM
Rally Point: Michael's Diner (Route 422 W & 662 N, Douglassville, PA 19510 )
KSU: 5:00 PM
Final Destination: West Reading

Okay folks, we have been asked by the proud mother of SPC. Mercado if we could
somehow assist in welcoming her son home. Well you know we are suckers for a
"Rock Star" welcome home. So lets get out and help mom welcome home her son
after his first tour in Iraq. We will be meeting up with this proud family along
the route as to cut down on the distance of the escort and we will be rolling
into the Reading area.

bio by Jorge's family:

A little something about our Hero and his accomplishments:

SPEC. MERCADO, JORGE M. Awards as follow 1- ARCOM- ARMY COMMENDATION
MEDAL 2- NDSM- NATION DEFENSE SERVICE MEDAL 3-ICM-CT-IRAQ CAMPAIGN MEDAL 4-GWTSM- GLOBAL WAR on TERRORISM MEDAL 5-ASR- ARMY SERVICE RIBBON 6- OSR- OVERSEAS SERVICE RIBBON 7- DRIVERS MECHANIC BADGE- WHEEL VEHICLE 8- DRIVERS MECHANIC BADGE- TRUCK VEHICLE 9- DRIVERS MECHANIC BADGE - SPECIAL OPERATOR.

There is also something i would like to share with you about JORGE when he
was 6yrs. old his mother passed away. I am originally his aunt who adopted him
after the passing of his mother. I am so proud of his accomplishments and
service to his country.

Please call 484-679-1717 for updates and 610-327-2916 with any questions.

---

See the April 4, 2011 Blog entry about the
Medal of Honor grove at Valley Forge.

---

From: Maria <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Fri, March 18, 2011
Subject: STAND DOWN.... more info to follow....

WELCOME HOME
PFC. WILL FRAIM, U.S. ARMY

Well, Will has surprised us all... he took an earlier flight today so this evening's welcome home celebrations are cancelled BUT... we'd still like to have a celebration for our Hero... please stand by for more info as we get it from the family. 

Thank you!!!

Rally date: TBD
Time: TBD

We have been ask to welcome home Pfc. Will Fraim by Upland Fire Company Chief Dan Smith to welcome one of there own home.

Bio: PFC Fraim, Unit - B Co. 307th ESB (Expeditionary Signal Battalion). Home duty station - Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Deployed to Kandahar Afghanistan to Task Force Tiger. supporting US Army Special Forces, US Navy SEALS and 1/2 SCR (Stryker Calvary Regiment) with voice and data communications on FB Baghtu

FOR MORE INFO: Maria / 610-327-2916

---

From: A. Accardi <andread50@yahoo.com>
Sent: Sat, March 12, 2011
Subject: THREE WELCOME HOME EVENTS!

THREE UPCOMING WELCOME HOME EVENTS!

WELCOME HOME 
ARMY SPECIALIST VINCENT R. DEJOHN
SATURDAY, MARCH 19, 2011

A request was received from a very excited mom for a fabulous welcome home for her son Army Specialist Vincent R. DeJohn. Specialist DeJohn will be arriving about 1:00pm at Philadelphia International Airport and escorted to his home in North Coventry/Pottstown area. Specialist DeJohn has been in Taji, Iraq for a year's tour and his family is happily awaiting his arrival home.

Date: Saturday, March 19, 2011
Flag Line at airport: 1:00pm
Terminal: TBA
Rally Point (Escort): Royersford, PA
Rally Time (Escort): 1:15pm
Destination: North Coventry/Pottstown area

PLEASE CHECK THE WEBSITE (www.aheros-welcome.org) FOR UPDATES AND REVISIONS. REMEMBER TO CALL 484-679-1717 BEFORE LEAVING FOR THE AIRPORT FOR LAST-MINUTE CHANGES.

WELCOME HOME 113 TROOPS!

Come and be part of a welcome home for 113 men and women from the Sandbox. 
Rally Point: Phila. Firehouse 69 (Bartram Avenue) 
Rally Time: 11:00am 
Departure from firehouse: 12:15pm. 

YOU MUST BE PRESENT AND PART OF THE GROUP FOR A PRIVATE ESCORT ONTO A SECURED AREA.

WELCOME HOME CAPTAIN MICHAEL O'KANE
ON/ABOUT FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2011

Proud Uncle Daniel O'Kane has requested a warm welcome home for his nephew Captain Michael O'Kane on or about Friday, March 18, 2011. Captain O'Kane is with the National Guard, stationed at a FOB in Afghanistan for over a year. 

Short Bio:

Captain O'Kane and his Uncle/Vietnam War Veteran Daniel O'Kane are both from Norwood, PA. Uncle Daniel served in the Submarine Service from 1967-1971. Uncle Daniel reports that even though there was no welcome home when he returned from Vietnam, he wants to welcome his nephew home in a SUPER-SIZED way!

Date: On or about Friday, March 18, 2011
Rally Point: TBD
Rally Time: TBD
Arrival Philadelphia International Airport
Final Destination: Norwood, Delaware County, PA

KEEP CHECKING THE WEBSITE (www.aheros-welcome.org) FOR UPDATES AND REVISIONS
REMEMBER TO CALL 484-679-1717 BEFORE LEAVING FOR THE AIRPORT, FOR LAST-MINUTE CHANGES.

Contact Maria at: Maria@aheros-welcome.org for questions or concerns.

---

Note: We apologize for the formatting problem with this posting.

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, March 9, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for Spc. Manuel Rivera, US Army 3/12/11 Philadelphia, PA

WE HAVE A DATE!!!! 

Please joi n us o n Saturday March 12, 2011 for the lo n g awaited 

Welcome home celebration for
Spc. Manuel Rivera, US Army!!! 

The winter is OUTTA HERE!!! but we are n 't... Let's give Ma n n y the welcome he so deserves!!!

Who: Army Spc. Ma n uel Rivera
What: Welcome Home Escort
When: Saturday 3/12
Where: From Roosevelt Mall to the family’s home.
Rally Location: Du n ki n Do n uts Roosevelt Mall

Li n k to Rally Poi n t: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=.....vania+19149&z=16
Rally Time: 1:00 pm
RC: MEATBALL

We met Ma n n y's Mom, Beverly, at the Fox 29 "Salute the Troops" eve n t.. please see video clip of Beverly (at 1:20) speaki n g about her so n.

http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=aefdb140-5f50-454d-a21d-b20259c31338

Bio:

Ma n uel's mom Beverly is very proud of her so n. Two years ago he sig n ed up
for a n 8 year sti n t i n the Army reserve. This is his first deployme n t a n d his
MOS is fi n a n ce.

His proud family member's i n clude Mom a n d Step Dad (who has raised him si n ce
3 mo n ths of age) so... his DAD.
O n e brother, age 23, two n ieces, o n e n ephew, ma n y, ma n y cousi n s a n d lots a n d
lots of Frie n ds.
Ma n uel (Ma n n y) is a very lovi n g a n d ki n d hearted so n. Who k n ows what he wa n ts
a n d very determi n e to accomplish his goals.
He is so ho n ored to fight a n d defe n d his cou n try. 

Co n tact Maria @ 610-327-2916 for more i n fo

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Fri, March 4, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for LCpl. Andrew Swartz, USMC 3/5/11 Lansdale, PA

WELCOME HOME
LCpl. ANDREW SWARTZ, USMC

When: Saturday March 5, 2011
Rally Time: 12:15 pm 
Rally Location: 1100 W. Main St. Lansdale, PA, Acme Parking Lot

Please join us in welcoming home this home town Hero! 
Andrew has shown true leadership skills from a very early age and is now continuing to show his OUTSTANDING character in the USMC!!! Let's show Andrew how proud we are of what he has done for the community and our Country!!! 
He is "OUR HERO!!!"

Andrew grew up in Elkins Park and Glenside Pa. 
He went to Abington H.S, and played 2 season's of football. 
Andrew was recognize by the Abington township commissioners and given an award for all his hard work on becoming an Eagle Scout. 
He joined scouts when he was 11, he earned every rank and earned 50 merit badges and became an Eagle Scout in 2007. Andrew had earned several scout trail medals and was the troop senior patrol leader and is still an adult leader with the troop. Andrew worked at Resica Falls scout camp several summers working and teaching the younger scouts several merit badges. Andrew and his fellow scouts where awarded the Boy Scout Life Saving award in 2007 for saving a women's life while hiking. Andrew and his scout troop where hiking up the Appalachian trail in an area called the pinnacle when on the way down they came across a women who was staggering and who had fallen on the rocks from 5 feet, the women had a bad head injury, Andrew his brother and the scouts made a stretcher out of tree branches and used their sweaters and jackets and carried the women about 2 miles down the trail to where they where met by the Hamburg paramedics then the women was flown out to the hospital. This was picked up by the media, the today show who had Andrew and the scout's up to New York City to be interviewed on live TV.

Andrew has always talked about going into the Marines, he signed up when he was in 11th grade and left for boot camp June 2009, and graduates from Parris Island on October 2009, in March 2010 Andrew is promoted to Lance Cpl. Andrew left for Afghanistan July 2010. And came home February 2011.

Please call maria at 610-327-2916 with any questions
www.aheros-welcome.org

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tue, March 1, 2011
Subject: WEDNESDAY 3/2/11 Troop welcome back on! but first..... a flag line for a very deserving Marine/ rally time 8:30 am... please join us! We'd love to have you welcome home these deserving Heroes!!!

WELCOME HOME
LCPL Nicholas Carpinona, USMC

A Hero's Welcome will be joining Warriors' Watch before we do our escort to Ft Dix, to welcome home this Marine.

Nick's good friend told him when he gets home to Chicago, he's getting a parade. Nick joked with his mom wondering why he wasn’t getting the same treatment here in Philly.

Due to our previous commitment for the Ft. Dix escort, it looks like we won't be able to give Nick a parade but we can sure give him the ROCK STAR TREATMENT at the airport, right?

Here’s a short bio from Nick’s mom:

Short bio on my son, that’s an oxymoron to any mother! I’ll try though.

Nick will soon be celebrating his 21st birthday, it’s May 1st! He is an awesome man as he was as a child too. He was never in trouble or into drugs etc. He absolutely loves animals, especially dogs. He is much more a giver than a taker and hates to be the center of attention. He has wanted to be a Marine since a young age and even though I thought that was just a phase, when he enlisted I was always supportive, Nick enlisted right after his 18th birthday and left the summer after high school graduation, August 17, 2008 to be exact.

My birthday is August 14, so it was a kind of a sad one that year, what a present! I can replay watching him leave in my head like it was yesterday. Nick was always the child who needed me and he was the one to leave me. I felt as if he was ripped right from me. I literally cried for 4 days, I had a hard time functioning and couldn't walk in his room. Boot camp was the longest 3 months of my life. I'd always be crying while running on my treadmill because every song I heard reminded me of him. I have been everywhere Nick has gone while in the Marines, except overseas of course; Aberdeen, Fort Sill and now Camp Pendleton. I will continue to be anywhere he goes, he will never be alone anywhere. The prime example of the type of man nick is; I went to his first Marine Corps ball with him and his girlfriend at the time. He took a lot of flack from the guys for bringing his mom so I offered not to go. He said no way mom! I don't care what any of them say! He even gave me the first dance of the night. I will never in my life forget the experience and cherish it as something shared between him and I.

I don't think Nick realizes how important he is to all of us but especially me. He is such a good son and also a friend to me; he knows that all he has to do is tolerate mom and let me brag and dote on him….then all is good! He started out in Aberdeen Maryland doing HVAC then they changed him to artillery so he moved on to Fort Sill, Oklahoma and finally where he is now which Nick was one of the first privates ever chosen in the history of the marine corps for HIMARS, he is now with the 5/11 Marines, Sierra Battery in Camp Pendleton. He is a great Marine, I love him with all my heart and I hope he always knows that.

Here is a link about HIMARS, I’m not sure everyone knows what it is

http://www.army-technology.com/projects/himars/

---

This mission was a stand down and
IS NOW BACK ON AGAIN!!!!

From: Wayne Lutz, Warriors’ Watch Riders: STARTING FROM SCRATCH, I AM HOPING FOR MAXIMUM POSSIBLE PARTICIPATION FOR VERY TIRED AND VERY DESERVING TROOPS WHO WILL BE RETURNING DIRECTLY FROM THE SANDBOX.

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2
TIME: RALLY AT 10:30 a.m.
RALLY POINT: PHILADELPHIA FIRE DEPARTMENT ENGINE 69 AT THE INTERSECTION OF BARTRAM AVE AND ISLAND AVE

ESCORT: DESTINATION NEW JERSEY, SO WEAR HELMETS.

ALL DETAILS - WHO, WHERE, HOW, WILL BE FILLED IN DURING THE RIDE BRIEFING AT 1100 SHARP AT THE FIRE HOUSE

IT'S GONNA BE A NICE DAY FOR A RIDE - SEE YOU THERE.

Please call my cell at 610-327 2916 with any questions.

---

From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Sun, February 27, 2011
Subject: Short Notice!!!! Monday Feb. 28, 2011

Introduction of new leadership positoins in A Hero's Welcome! LOTS OF NEWS!!!!

Greetings A Hero’s Welcome Volunteers!

I am very proud to announce new appointments to the Hero’s Welcome Organization. 

Chapter Membership Director: Andrea Accardi, is a Blue Star Aunt, A Hero’s Welcome Volunteer and has accepted the position as our new Chapter Membership Director. Andrea will be begin sending out email notifications of our upcoming welcomes and will work on recruiting new members! 

National Chapter Liaison: Charlie Becker, our new National Chapter Liaison, has been an integral part of A Hero’s Welcome from it’s founding and will now be developing new chapters, working with the Chapter Directors and supporting all Membership Directors.

SNJ Chapter Director: Shawn Ewing, active member of A Hero’s Welcome and Warriors Watch Riders, has accepted the position as Southern New Jersey Chapter Director

SNJ Membership Director: Lil Baskerville, also an integral member of A Hero’s Welcome.. even before me!!! has accepted the position as SNJ Membership Director. 

NNJ Chapter Director: Gene Boyle, active member of NNJ A Hero’s Welcome and founder of DenimCross-USA,

a first responder Puppy Program, as our Northern New Jersey Chapter Director.

We are growing! 

Thank you for all you do for our Troops and

Please continue to watch our website for updates.

Thank you!

Maria Hyland

---

Welcome Home
Sergeant First Class James Manzi, US Army

Arrival date: Monday Feb. 28, 2011 
Rally point: FB 69 82nd and Bartram Ave Phila, pa
Time: 7:00 PM

Flag line only

Bio by Carol Klein:

Here’s a request by our good friend, Carol Klein from A Hero’s Welcome! Her cousin, Jim is a 1998 graduate of Ridley High School and has been in the Army for the past twelve years. He has served in Germany, Korea, Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. His home base is Fort Polk, Louisiana. Attached is a photo of his four pawed rescue from Afghanistan, named Sgt.Sneezy. Via Facebook, he managed to get donations to have this abused and neglected pooch sent to the U.S. Sneezy has arrived and is at a rescue site in Maine. 

Please check out this link:

http://savesgtsneezy.chipin.com/operation-save-sneezy

Jim’s Grandfather, Rocco Manzi, was an honored WWII veteran. Jim’s family is anxious to welcome him home after six months in the war zone prior to his returning to Afghanistan to finish his tour.

His Grandmother Mary (my terrific Aunt) has contacted me and asked for a Welcome Home for her grandson. Of course, we love him so much and know that he expects no special thanks. She said that she would like a Flag Line. I explained how special it is.

Questions about this welcome home / 610-327-2916

NO MEDIA PLEASE!

---

From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Mon, February 21, 2011 6:47:50 PM
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Upcoming Events

WELCOME HOME
228TH ENGINEERING COMPANY

Pending Date: Feb. 25, 2011

Stay Tuned for an upcoming welcome home for the 228th Engineer Company from the Armory at Spring City, PA

Updates will be posted on www.aheros-welcome.org

Please watch as the updates will be posted as they come in.

According to the Warriors’ Watch Riders “ this unit is now due to arrive at Fort Dix this Sunday, February 20. That puts the estimated release date within our grasp. If I had to guess based on experience with demobilization times I'd say this mission will happen next Friday. Will post the moment we have it firmed.”

More info TBA

We have been asked by a representative of the Armory in Spring City and the head of the unit Family Readiness Group to escort the USARNG 228 Engineer Company home from Fort Dix to the Armory at Spring City.

Some of you will remember that we sent this unit off last year. Liver was the RC, and in his Ride Report he wrote:

The 228th will have a difficult and dangerous mission clearing routes in Iraq and keeping them safe. The Warriors' Watch Riders will keep in touch with the 228th Family readiness coordinator and others close to the 228th so that in a little more than year we can welcome them home. In the mean time we’ll keep them close in our hearts and prayers and wish them a safe return home.

Fundraiser for Operation Bedding

Comedy Night

A Hero’s Welcome will join the Warriors’ Watch Riders in hosting two fundraising events that will benefit Operation Bedding, The Adam Conboy Memorial Fund.

This event will be held at the North Penn VFW 676 – 2519 Jenkintown Rd., Glenside, PA. 19038

As many as 15 comedians will present “Comics for Comfort.” There will be an hour of improv and an hour of standup.

The event will be a Beef & Beer and the price of admission will cover a meal of roast beef, meatball sandwiches, and beer or soda!!

Admission will be $25.

This event will take place on Saturday 2/26/11

7:00 PM-11:00PM

03-2-2011 Troop Welcome and Escort to Ft. Dix

The Warriors Watch Riders and A Hero’s Welcome have been asked once again to meet and greet an arriving flight carrying American Warriors fresh from the war!

We will meet their plane at Philadelphia and escort to Fort Dix.

Date: March 2, 2011
TIME: NOON

Rally Location: FB 69. 82nd and Bartram St. Philadelphia, PA 

AS ALWAYS WITH MILITARY MOVEMENTS THIS INFORMATION COULD CHANGE. WATCH THE A HERO’S WELCOME SITE FOR UPDATES.

If you haven’t done one of these unit welcomes before, you are in for a real treat. If you have, then I know you’re itching to do it again. Here’s the last one we did: [9awh]

Please call Maria @ 610-327-2916 with any questions or more info.

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Thu, February 17, 2011 7:08:23 AM
Subject: 02-18 & 19-2011 Honors for Sgt. Major Bodnar, USMC

Funeral Services
for Sgt. Major John P. Bodnar, USMC

Date: Friday Feb. 18, 2011
Rally Time: 6:30 PM
Rally Location: Boyd Horrox Funeral Home, 200 W. Germantown Pike, E. Norriton, Pa.

Funeral Service for Sgt. Major John P. Bodnar, USMC, highly decorated Veteran of 3 wars, recipient of the Silver Star as well as many other awards will be on Friday night Feb. 18, 2011.

Please join us in honoring Sgt. Major Bodnar in a flag line at the funeral home. The details are below:

Please post on the A Hero’s Welcome site if you plan to attend.

Please arrive at the funeral home by 6:30pm so we may properly set up. Parking is available by the Friendly's across the street or behind and next to the funeral home - there are offices there that are closed by that time.

Questions or additional info: Maria @ 610 327 2916

---

From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Mon, February 14, 2011 7:29:05 AM
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for Cpl Adam Tichy, USMC Tuesday Feb 15, 2011

Welcome Home
Cpl Adam Tichy, USMC

Date: Tueday Feb 15, 2011
Rally Time: 3:30 pm
Depart for PHL Airport: 3:50 pm

Please join in the escort to Ridley Park, PA to celebrate this Hero’s Welcome… view this link for more info and leave a comment! 

We’d love to know if you can join us or just say “Thank You” to our HERO!!

http://aheros-welcome.org/blog/2011/02/11/021511-pending-cpl-adam-tichy-u-s-m-c/
484-679-1717 for updates 
Or call 610-327 2916 with any questions

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Fri, February 11, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for Spc. Jonathan Josd, US Army Saturday Feb. 12, 2011 Collegeville, PA

A Hero's Welcome for
Spc. Jonathan Josd, U.S. Army

Date: Saturday Feb. 12, 2011
Rally Time: 3:45 pm
Location: Olive Garden Restaurant
One Town Center Drive
Collegeville, PA

We invite you to stand outside the Olive Garden Restaurant and wave your American Flags. 
Show our Hero how much you appreciate his brave service to Our Country!!!!! 
Please join us show your American Spirit!!!!! 
THANK YOU!!

Bio:

Specialist Jonathan R. Josd is 22 years old. Jon graduated from Boyertown Area Senior High School in June 2007 and completed his Basic Training at Fort Benning, GA in October 2007. He completed his AIT at Fort Gordon and he is currently stationed at Fort Hood, TX. He is a Satellite Systems Operator & Maintainer with Bravo Company, 4th Brigade Special Troops, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.

He is currently serving his 2nd tour of duty in Iraq, stationed in Mosul and has recently re-enlisted for another 6 years. Jon has received various awards, including two Good Conduct Medals and is a certified Combatives Instructor. He recently enrolled in college and is working to complete his BS in Electrical Engineering online. When he returns to Mosul from his mid-tour leave later this month, Jon is scheduled to go before the Promotion Board for his promotion to Sgt.

Jon and his wife Robyn live in Killeen with their 2-yr old daughter, Emily and dog, Maddie. They are planning a July 2012 family wedding. Jon has one sister - Miranda, 11, who looks up to her brother as HER HERO! Jon enjoys racing, fixing up cars, playing video games, spending time with his friends and family, Philly Cheesesteaks, and caring for his bearded-dragon, Frank.

Please contact Maria Hyland at 610-327-2916 for more info.

---

Blues & Jazz
Friday April 29, 2011 
7:00 -11:00 PM

This will feature a Blues artist named Chaz and a jazz band. On that night we will also raffle off a donated electric guitar.

The guitar will be on display starting with the February 26th event and folks will pay $5 for a raffle ticket.

$25 for entrance.

Tickets are available on the night of the event at the door.

For More Information:

A Hero’s Welcome: Maria@aheros-welcome.org
Warriors Watch Riders: http://www.warriorswatch.org
Operation Bedding: http://www.adamconboymemorialfund.org/

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, February 9, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome and the Warriors' Watch Riders invite you to "Operation Bedding Fundraisers"

“Comics For Comfort” Comedy Night

Date: Saturday Feb. 26, 2011
Time: 7-11 p.m.
Location: North Penn VFW 676
2519 Jenkintown Rd., Glenside, PA. 19038

A Hero’s Welcome will join the Warriors’ Watch Riders in hosting two fundraising events that will benefit Operation Bedding, The Adam Conboy Memorial Fund.

Both events will be held at the North Penn VFW 676 – 2519 Jenkintown Rd., Glenside, PA. 19038
Comedy Night. As many as 15 comedians will present Comics for Comfort,
There will be an hour of improv and an hour of standup.
The event will be a Beef & Beer and the price of admission will cover a meal of roast beef, meatball sandwiches, and beer or soda.
Admission will be $25.

---

From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tue, February 8, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Flag Line for World War II Vet Sgt. John Briley

We have request from our very own Ken Link (MarineDad09) for a

Mug-n-hug/flag-line for his grandfather,
Sergeant John T. Briley
 a WWII veteran.

Date: Sunday Feb. 13, 2011
Rally Point: Cooper Beach Elementary School
825 N. Easton Road
Abington 19001
(about a mile and a half south of Willow Grove Mall/ about 3-4 miles north of 309)

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=.....929&t=h&z=16

Rally time: 12:15pm (1215hrs)
KSU: 12:45pm (1245hrs)
Final Destination: Glenside


BIO from Ken:

My Grandfather is a great man. I left college to work with him in the sheet metal business. He taught me the 'Tin Knocking' trade. I am involved with my own business today, thanks to my Grandfather. I could go on all day, but let me get to the meat and potatoes. I want to have a mission so that Warriors' Watch Riders, A Hero's Welcome, and hopefully many other groups, can shake the hand, and welcome home, a true American Hero.

My Grandfather is Sergeant John T. Briley, a WWII Vet. My Grandfather was an Airplane Armorer Gunner with the 44th Bomb Group. He was in the Army Air Force. He has received the AAF Air Crew Member Badge and completed AAF Gunnery School. He was awarded the American Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and The World War II Victory Medal.

He lost his wife to Cancer and now he is fighting his own battle with the disease. I know it is a short notice, but I am asking for as many people to come out on
Sunday, February 13th, 2011, at 1pm, and shake my Grandfathers hand...The hand of an American Hero... My Hero.

My Grandfather is about to become a Great-Great-Grandfather, if he can fight until April. His Great Grandson is a United States Marine, stationed in Hawaii.
He and his wife are expecting in April. He can not be here for this event, so I am hoping someone will video tape it, so I can send it to him.

Let's get out and show our support for this great American and for what he did for our freedom in WWII!!!!

contact Maria 610-327-2916 for more info

---

From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Thu, February 3, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome 2-05-11 Cpl Austin Griffin, USMC Media, PA

Welcome home
Cpl. Austin Griffin, a returning Marine!

Come join a Flagline and Mug-n-Hug

Location: At the Acme parking lot Rt. 252 and Baltimore Pike
Date: Saturday February 5, 2011
Time: 3:15pm 

Corporal Austin Griffin is a 21 year old Marine. He was deployed in the Gulf from August 2008 to March 2009. During his deployment he was involved in the mission fighting the Somali pirates and training the Kuwait troops. His second deployment was in Marjah in the Helmand Province where he was involved in almost daily fire fights with the Taliban. Austin is a squad leader for machine gunners. He has received a NAVCOM (Navy Commendation Award) for heroism for saving the life of another Marine during a fire fight.

Let's get out and show this Marine how much we appreciate his service to our country!!!

Bring a flag, a cheer, a tear and a neighbor.

For information:
http://www.aheros-welcome.org/
http://forums.lutzkicksass.com/cgi-bin/forum/Blah.pl?m-1296667233/
MARIA@AHEROS-WELCOME.ORG

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From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Wed, January 26, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Saturday 1-29-11 2 welcome home celebrations!!!!

Welcome Home Marine Sgt. Anthony Musselman, U.S.M.C.

Date: Saturday Jan. 29, 2011
Rally Point: 1050 Shoemakersville Road, Shoemakersville PA
Rally Time: 1330 (1:30pm)
KSU Time: 1400 (2:00pm)

At 2:00 pm we will leave the rally location and join the Warriors’ Watch Riders in an escort to Anthony’s welcome home party.

Link to Rally Point:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=.....vania+19555&z=16

We will be welcoming home Marine Sgt. Anthony Musselman from a tour of duty in Afghanistan.

This Marine has been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan serving Our Country.

Let's get out and show him our appreciation!

Bio:

Sgt. Musselman is a Forward Observer.
He was based at Camp Lejeune, NC until his return home earlier this month.
Anthony completed a tour in Iraq in 2009 with 5th Anglico out of Okinawa, Japan and a tour in Afghanistan in 2010 with 2/6 Golf Company JTAC Platoon out of Camp Lejeune, NC

The local fire companies are already involved and are planning a 2 truck (front and rear) escort.

We will escort this Marine to Central Berks Fire Company where he will be greeted by family and friends! 

Please contact Charlie Becker with any questions:

484-576-3121

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Welcome Home Spc. Manuel Rivera, U.S. Army

What: Welcome Home Escort
When: Saturday 1/29
Rally Time: 4:30pm
Where: From Roosevelt Mall to the family’s home.
Rally Location: Dunkin Donuts, Roosevelt Mall, Cottman Ave, Philadlelphia, PA


Link to Rally Point:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Roosevelt+Mall,+Cottman+Avenue,+Philadelphia,+PA&sll=40.035764,-75.091467&sspn=0.036406,0.075531&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Roosevelt+Mall,+Cottman+Ave,+Philadelphia,+Pennsylvania+19149&z=16


We have a request that originated from a contact made with the Mother of a Soldier during this year’s “Fox Good Day Salutes the Military” Event!

Beverly Santiago would like us to help her welcome her son Army Spc. Manuel Rivera home upon his return from a tour of duty in Iraq. Let's give this soldier the Rock Star treatment he deserves!

Manuel's mom Beverly is very proud of her son. Two years ago he signed up for an 8 year stint in the Army reserve.

This is his first deployment and his MOS is finance.

His proud family member's include Mom and Step Dad (who has raised him since 3 months of age) so his DAD.
One brother, age 23, two nieces, one nephew, many, many cousins and lots and lots of Friends. Manuel (Manny) is a very loving and kind hearted son. Who knows what he wants and very determined to accomplish his goals. He is so honored to fight and defend his country.

Let’s show Manny how honored we are to meet him and say “thank you for your sacrifices.”

Welcome Home Manny Rivera!!!!

Contact or questions please call: Maria 610-327-2916

Updates and changes: 484-679-1717

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WELCOME HOME
CPL. ROY BASIS, USMC

Date: Sunday Jan. 23, 2011
Location: Philadelphia International Airport to Haverford, PA
Rally Point: FB 69, 82nd and Bartram Ave., Philadelphia, PA
Rally Time: 1:45 pm
Depart for the Airport 2:20 pm
Destination: Lincoln Drive, Havertown, PA. (anticipated arrival 3:30 pm)

We have a request from Brittney Basis for a welcome home and escort for her husband Corporal Roy Christian Basis USMC on January 23.

We will be picking up Cpl. Roy Basis at the Phila. International Airport.

Roy enlisted in the US Marine Corps in July 2007 and is a 0341, Mortarman. He served in Operation Iraqi Freedom from late 2008 to March 2009 and traveled to various countries such as Bahrain, Iraq, France, and Greece supporting other military operations. He also served in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan from June 2010 to January 2011 in Marjah, Afghanistan with Marines. He supported operations as a rifleman.

So... let's get out and show this Marine just how much we appreciate his service to our country!!!!

Please check the our website or call 484 679 1717 before leaving for the airport for any changes or cancellations. 

Questions: feel free to call my cell 610-327-2916

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Tue, January 18, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome Upcoming 1-22-11 / 1-23-11

Honor Mission for KIA
Spc. Benjamin G. Moore
Funeral Flag Line/Escort Jan 22

Spc. Benjamin G. Moore, 23, of Robbinsville, N.J. was killed in an enemy attack on his unit Jan. 12, in Ghazi province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device.

Spc. Moore was assigned to the 7th Engineer Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.

Spc. Benjamin G. Moore’s awards and decorations include, The Bronze Star Medal, The Purple Heart, The Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct Medal, The Afghanistan Camp. Medal, The Army Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Medal, the National Defense service Medal, and the NATO medal.

The Information provided so far has been Tentative So PLEASE CHECK back for updates.

http://forums.lutzkicksass.com/cgi-bin/forum/Blah.pl?m-1295043869/s-0/

When: Jan 22
Viewing Flag Line:
Rally Time: 0745
Location: The "old" Acme Market, currently vacant. Just across the street from the Shell gas station3 00 US RT 130 Bordentown, NJ 08505

This is .4 miles from the church, a shuttle is being provided by the town from this location.

We're trying to get the shuttle to be there for when we move to the church.

Depart @ 0815 via shuttle to church

Visitation will be 0900 - 1200 at which time services will start.

Following services we will escort Benjamin to his final resting place, Bordentown Cemetery, 220 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown, NJ 08505

We'll do a flag line at the cemetery until the conclusion of graveside services.

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Welcome Home
LCPL Kevin McCarthy

Date: Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011
RALLY-Engine 69 
Location: 82nd and Bartram Ave, Philadelphia, PA
RALLY TIME: 0800 (8 AM)
Time: Depart for the airport - 0830 (8:30 am)

LET’S GET OUT IN FORCE TO WELCOME THIS HERO HOME

Bio from Kevin’s Mom:

Kevin Graduated from BCTHS in 2008 he received is EMT License when he was in 11th grade and his Fire Fighter License in 12th Grade. For years Kevin was in the Civil Air Patrol with his younger sister. He really enjoyed everything about that adventure. Kevin has always wanted to go into the military and become a sniper. That was his focus in life so he started training in Ju Jitsu. He wanted to be ready for the military. Kevin Trained Under Master Tom McGonigal, Tommy is a huge part of my son's life, he is a mentor and good friend. Tom helped Kevin go to Brazil. Kevin trained there for 3 months and also won a competition there 2nd place.

After he graduated High School, he left for the Marines in November 2008. In boot camp Kevin received a medal for Expert on the rifle range and did wonderful. When I found out I just was so proud of my son. Its funny, when I told one of my friends how well Kevin was doing they said “what did you except he was raised my drill sergeant?” (A joke between my friends and... no I was never in the military I guess I missed my calling)

My son has been so driven since he was little never loosing focus on what he wanted to do and never let anything get in his way. I have raised a wonderful child who is now a great man and my hero. My son Kevin has been a blessing to raise. Kevin is my middle child he has two sisters Carina & Arielle. They are so proud of their brother.

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Sat, January 15, 2011
Subject: Honor Mission for Korean War Vet Jerold Thomas Humphreys, US Navy

KOREAN WAR VET HAS LEFT US
Honor Mission

Date: Sunday Jan 16, 2011
Time: 1800 (6:00pm) to 2000 (8:00 pm)
Where: Kings Funeral Home, 2649 S 64th St, Phila Pa 19142

Linda George has requested a flag line for her father, PFC Jerold Thomas Humphreys, at his viewing on Sunday 1/16/11

PFC Humphreys was a gunners mate during the Korean war.

He served 12 years in the US Navy.

His hobbies included model trains and building model ships.

HE WAS A VERY PROUD VETERAN AND SPOKE OF HIS MILITARY SERVICE ALL THE TIME.

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Thu, January 6, 2011
Subject: A Hero's Welcome for Welcome Home SSGT. Adam Rosemeyer, U.S.A.F. 1/8/2011

Welcome Home
SSGT. Adam Rosemeyer, U.S.A.F.
01/08/2011 

lOCATION: Cookstown, New Jersey
Rally Time: 1550
Andrews Federal Credit Union
25 Cookstown Wrightstown Rd
Cookstown, NJ
Depart @ 1620 for our Hero's home

We'll gather together and roll as one to our Hero's home to show appreciation and bestow honor to this returning warrior. Our Hero will be in good company, a handful of returning warriors will be joining him and his wife for a beverage or two. We've been invited to stop in and say hi.

An email from his wife:

My husband is currently serving overseas in his 2nd deployment, this time to the UAE. He is a SSGT with the USAF and is a KC-10 engine mechanic. He is due home on or after January 5, 2010. I do realize there may be snow on the ground so a motorcycle escort would not be possible, he is flying into the PAX terminal on McGuire AFB and we live in base housing - so an escort really wouldn't be much of one. But, I would be VERY interested in a mug and hug. But at the present moment, I do not have a location in mind. My husband is a very modest person, a very proud and humble man - but as his wife, I am just so proud of the work he does and he deserves recognition for what he does. I KNOW that even a handshake would mean THE WORLD to him - from someone thanking him for the work he does on a day to day basis. He tells me, a lot actually, that his brothers are the real heroes (his 2 younger brothers are gunners in the USMC). However, if it weren't for men like my husband that fixed these planes - who would? Aircraft need to be refueled mid flight to complete their missions and because of my husband, planes that break - get fixed. This is our 2nd base prior to this he was stationed at Ramstein AFB, Germany where he worked as a C-130 propeller mechanic. If someone could please contact me, tell me if its possible for a mug and hug in the beginning to mid January time frame, I would so appreciate it! My kids cannot wait to see their Daddy and this would be the perfect way to welcome him home. 

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From: Maria Hyland <Maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Thu, December 30, 2010
Subject: Honor Mission for Mr. Raymond Riling, World War II Veteran Monday Jan. 3, 2011

Honor Mission
for
Mr. Raymond Riling
World War II Veteran
Monday, Jan. 3, 2011

Location: Kirk and Nice Funeral Home
80 Stenton Avenue, Plymouth Meeting, PA
(just east of Butler Pike on the grounds of the Geo. Washington Memorial Park/cemetery)
Rally Time: 10:15 a.m.

Mr. Riling's memorial service is at Kirk and Nice Funeral Home, 80 Stenton Avenue, Plymouth Meeting on the grounds of the Geo. Washington Memorial Park/Cemetery - it's just east of Butler Pike.
His cremains will be interred at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, Cheltenham and Easton.

Service is at 11am
We've been invited to provide the flag line and escort. Right now, forecast is 38 and sunny.
There is no official visitation time, but I would like to be lined up by 10:15. There is plenty of parking there, so I don't think we really need a different rally point.

SPECIAL STORY

Note by Wayne Lutz, founder of the Warriors’ Watch Riders:
A few weeks ago, (our Calamity) Jane met a man at Chestnut Hill Hospital who was wearing a WWII veteran’s hat. The man’s name was Raymond Riling. Jane went out of her way to thank him for his service. She did not have coins on her so she mailed a WWR coin and pin to him, along with a “lovely letter.”
Mr. Riling never received the coin and pin. He died on December 17. Instead the doctors at the hospital presented them to the granddaughter. The letter below (and the attached photo) is from her, Angelique, attempting to find Jane to thank her. I responded, offered my condolences on behalf of all the WWR in PA, promised I would contact Jane, and did so. I also told Jane that if they want WWR at the funeral next week, we are there, so please be prepared.
Jane’s act of kindness to Mr. Riling was the last such ever done to him on this Earth. As I like to say, you never know who you are going to touch.
- Wayne

Follow Up: A note from Mr. Rilings granddaughter:
I am trying to get in contact with Jane Thomas who met my Grandfather Raymond Riling at Dr. Fellin's office at the Chestnut Hill Hospital in Philadelphia on or about December 7th 2010.

She met him and thanked him for his service to our country. She had wanted to personally present the Warriors Watch Memoriam pin and Honor Coin to him, but was unable to. I stopped by Dr. Fellin's office last week and they presented the coin and pin along with a lovely letter from Jane, to me at that time as our Pop Ray passed December 17th.

I wanted to thank Jane Thomas and also your organization for taking the time to personally thank him for his service. He would have been very honored to have received these tokens of appreciation.

Pop wore his WWII Veteran's hat everyday with pride and on his hat he had many pins from his service. I will be including your pin to his hat and we will be displaying your coin at his funeral service next week for all to see.

If you could please let Jane know that Ray's family did receive your gift I would greatly appreciate it. Here is a picture of Pop during his Army days.

Thank you again and Have a Happy New Year.

Angelique Riling
Raymond Riling's granddaughter

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From: Maria Hyland <maria@aheros-welcome.org>
Sent: Sun, January 2, 2011
Subject: 1/2/10 Extreme short notice for a wounded warrior

WOUNDED WARRIOR ESCORT
SPC Gregory Gardiner
put his life on the line for OUR freedom. 

Time for a payback.

NJ Warriors’ Watch Riders needs some support on this very short notice welcome home for a wounded hero.

What better way to start out 2011 then to honor this young hero.

Lets get down to the airport and shake this heros hand and thank him. It doesnt matter if to ride, cage ot take a taxi, lets do it!

Its a short escort across the bridge to Runnemeade NJ.

NJ Short Notice Welcome Home US Army Spc. Glen Gardiner

Date: 01/02
PHL to Deptford Runnemede, NJ
Rally @ 1455
Rally Location: Firebase 69, 82nd and Bartram, Philadelphia, PA
Depart for PHL @ 1525
Destination: Runnemede, NJ, about fifteen minutes over the Walt Whitman Bridge.

Name: Gregory Gardiner Jr.
Rank: A Specialist Grade E-4
Age: 24

Greg grew up in Runnemede New Jersey, graduated from Trition Regional High School and at age 20 joined the Army. He served as a mortar man in Afghanistan. He was severely injured 8 days before he was due to finish serving. His injuries have left him with permanent hearing loss and shrapnel fragments in his arm, legs, and spine. He received a Purple Heart. He recuperated in Germany and is arriving home tomorrow Jan. 2 2011

People, here is your chance to start 2011 off right by getting in on the first Welcome Home of the year. Not that their is anything wrong with that.

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