Since I started writing for the Montevideo American-News I’ve had the opportunity to speak with people and learn about things I’d probably never have researched otherwise. That said, this past Friday when I was assigned to cover the welcome home event for our soldiers up at the football field and high school, I got to experience in a big way why I really love this community, and it reminded me just how much support I’ve witnessed over the years.
In the news, on the Web and at college campuses we pay an awful lot of lip service to the idea of honoring out veterans or respecting soldiers. Here in Montevideo we take that to a whole new level.
It’s like Lt. Col. Lowell Kruse said on Thursday, “This community really is an anomaly.” People really do care.”
When I graduated here in Montevideo, two of my close friends, Matt Olson and Hesston Winters, both joined the Marines and ended up serving overseas. As a young person, it was probably one of my first experiences with what mortality really meant — knowing that I might never get to see two of my friends ever again. The support was phenomenal.
Not only did I get to be part of their friends and families supporting them, but the three of us also worked at County Market at the time, and I really couldn’t believe the amount of hugs, well wishes and cards that co-workers and customers offered those two. Even people who had never really said much ended up coming out of the woodwork.
Subsequently, the number of one-time co-workers and community members who were eager to welcome those two home was inspirational. I’ve never seen so many giant welcome home posters filled with signatures.
Catching back up to the event on Friday, the best word to describe the turnout is “massive.” A lot was said by members of the press (me included) about the special guests and everything they said. But really, to members of this community, that should probably take second place on what was really impressive that day, because the support of community members – independently or with the yellow ribbon – was really something else. So, when you’re welcoming a soldier home, remember to pat yourself on the back as well, and keep showing that support for years to come.
