Paying honor to returning soldiers

[Slugger]

Can anyone point me in the right direction here? I'd like to find out where to learn of dates and times where I could bring my family to hold flags, applaud, etc. and show honor to soldiers as they return home to the Western Washington area.

I'm not sure how this is done or if it is allowed or not but I'd like to keep digging till I can find something. We home school our kids and I think it's an important lesson that I'd like to model to them.

Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Slugger

[Jer]

Search for 'Honor Guard' for more details.

[Slugger]

Thanks Jer,
My search foo must be weak. I'm not finding much on this site or on google.
Slugger

[Jer]

I'm posting from my phone so I'm unable to find the links but my buddy sent me a link that has the date and locations for funeral services. The problem is that there are people who wish to protest at these services (:mad:) so it's not as easy as it once was. If you dig around enough though you can find this information compiled somewhere and I know that there are chapters of Honor Guard around the nation and that's what they do. Escort the soldier and protect his/her family and friends from these protesters and general douche bags.

Good luck!

[Ash Hess]

I dont know where you are in the states, but every day in the Atlanta and Dallas Airports, there are Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines coming home for a vacation. In Atlanta, we pass thru the airport to rounds of applause and thank you's. It is very emotional. They started this tradition as the wars started and it is going strong.
As for actual Units returning, your nearest base will have what is called the PAO, Public Affairs Office and will be able to provide you with all the information you seek. We all appreciate your efforts.

[Rated21R]

As U.S. Calvaryman said the airports are great for returning troops. I know that we have flowin in to Baltimore on numerous occassions. I would check with the USO there, I'm sure they could provide you some info. Good luck, what you are doing is much appreciated.

[DragonDoc]

Where do you live? If you are near a major force projection installation then you can contact the installation PAO for information. Places like Fort Hood, Bliss, Carson, Stewart, Benning, Campbell, Bragg, and Drum always having soldiers coming and going.

[Slugger]

Thanks for everyone's info. I'm in Western Washington. I believe the closest base is Fort Lewis. I'll check with the PAO as stated as well as a local Honor Guard station and see what I can find.

Thank you for risking/giving it all for me,
Slugger

[PlatoCATM]

This information might not (shouldn't) be handed out easily due to operations security. If you would truly like more information, try contacting family readiness representative at the base. By the way, I appreciate the gesture.

[citizensoldier16]

Here in NC there's a part of the RDU Int'l Airport website dedicated to the USO that operates there. I bet there are similar options in your area. Call or email the USO and they'll be more than happy to tell you when the next plane full of heros is coming in.

As a former service member, this really means a lot to soldiers, Marines, and airmen (and women). Just a pat on the back, a simple "thank you for your service", or a hug from a flag-waving child can raise their spirits for weeks.

That happened to me actually...I was flying home from Ft. Hood to RDU and when I walked off the gangway into the terminal this group of kids was waving at me, so I waved back. As I waited to get my luggage, one of the little kids came over and motioned for me to kneel down as if he was going to ask a question. To my surprise, he gave me a big hug and said "thank you GI". I almost cried...but it put a huge smile on my face.

[hammer4y]

Google "Patriot Guard Riders" for your state. Many states have their own web page for that state only. They do a lot of welcome home missions. We have 3 or 4 a month come home at our local airport.