The Battery B 1/117th FA Alabama Army National Guard Unit returned home today from &#8220Operation Iraqi Freedom.” A welcome -home ceremony was given at the Covington Kiwanis Center in Andalusia as the guard unit arrived this morning at 6 a.m.

Major Charles R. Rawls gave the welcome address, followed by the playing of &#8220The National Anthem.”

The invocation was given by Bill Pritchett.

Major Rawls introduced the ceremony's guest speakers. They included MG Gary A. Quick, Outgoing Commander, 62nd Troop Command, and Andalusia Mayor Jerry Andrews.

The benediction was given by Bill Pritchett, followed by the playing of &#8220Patriot in Arms.”

LTC Curtis W. Faulk is the commander for the 1/117th Field Artillery Battalion out of Andalusia.

COL Brian C. Harris is the commander for the 621st Troop Support Command out of Union Springs.

BG Frederick J. Johnson is the commander for the 62nd Troop Command out of Montgomery, and MG Crayton M. Bowen is the Adjutant General of the State of Alabama.

According to Luverne City Council Member Barbara Harrison, the City of Luverne will hold a formal celebration to welcome home these brave Americans and citizens of Crenshaw County. The special event will be announced at a later date.

Once again, we thank these, our fellow Americans, brothers, fathers, sisters, mothers and friends for their service to us and to our country.

They fight that we might be free.

May we never forget their service nor their sacrifices.