Friday, July 27m a bright, sunny, breezy day, familes and friends welcomed home 99 of Minnesota's finest, members of the Red Bull National Guard Unit in Anoka. These true American heroes had served 22 months in Iraq, one of the longest assignments taken on by an NG unit. The welcoming was large, heartwarming and patriotic. Thanks, guys, thanks a ton for all you did!

Thanks too, to the MN Patriot Riders who make a point of being there for our guys' returns from deployment and provide a respectful final tribute for those who have died for freedom.