Freedom Dogs

Our Michael Mannske chided KARE-11 (deservedly) awhile back, but I want to give them kudos for this story.

Members of the Minnesota National Guard received an emotional outpouring of support along Highway 12 Wednesday.

Friends, relatives, and strangers lined up for nearly 35 miles to welcome them home from Iraq to their final destination in Litchfield.

From 35 miles away in Delano all the way to Litchfield flags, signs and cheers filled the air. They all lined up for the arrival of the 94 troops from the Litchfield based 849th Mobility Augmentation Company.

Even better, KARE told viewers of several humanitarian accomplishments of the 849th:

The company helped to build three schools, a marketplace and twenty stores while there.

They also supervised the operation of checkpoints and helped to conduct humanitarian aid missions.

Also mentioned was their assistance with a Ramadan food drive. You can catch a more comprehensive report on video here.

Thank you, KARE and especially the 849th! The folks from Delano to Litchfield know how to welcome their troops home.