Staff Sgt. surprised by welcome home

BAY MINETTE - Army Staff Sgt Randal Lane returned home to Bay Minette Monday night after serving overseas on his second tour of duty.

Laura Lane said her husband has been serving for the past 14 months at a NATO base in Cosovo and has strong ties to Northern Baldwin County.

Staff Sgt. Lane is a 6-year-plus veteran of the Bay Minette Volunteer Fire Department.

Monday night his fellow firefighters welcomed him home in grand fashion.

More than a dozen area fire trucks and ambulances escorted the soldier from Mobile Regional Airport to the Bay Minette Fire house where he was greeted by family, friends, and Patriot Guard Riders.

Sgt. Lane said he is ready for a little rest and relaxation before continuing his firefighter duties.

He said he did not expect such an elaborate welcome home celebration but is humbled by the efforts.