Homecoming Ceremony Held For 1245th Transportation Company

Family and friends hold a big welcome home celebration for the 1245^th Transportation Company. The 100 soldiers deployed to Afghanistan in Dec. 2012, but Saturday marked the end of the mission and a return to civilian life.

Homemade signs dotted the eager crowd. Excited family members waved American flags in celebration. Little kids danced to the patriotic music. They were all waiting for their loved ones who have been serving overseas for 10 months.

Then the announcement, "1245^th dismissed!"

The crowd erupted into cheers and families rushed to find their heroes. For the Martens, it was a race to be the first to jump into their dad's arms.

Loretta Martens said it has been hard not having Specialist Tom Martens home to help with their kids. She acknowledged that a new mission was about to begin for her family but it is one they have wanted; getting back to normal.

While Specialist Martens was serving overseas, one of Martens' daughters decided to follow in his footsteps by joining the National Guard. Martens said he was proud of his daughter.

Maj. Gen. Myles Deering stressed one thing in his speech to his soldiers today. He told them to take time for themselves and ease back into civilian life so they can continue taking care of their families for years down the road.