Soldiers overwhelmed by warm welcome

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Patriot Guard Riders helped welcome back several hometown heroes Friday.

The 781 ^st transportation unit with the Alabama National Guard returned from Afghanistan to see their friends and family for the first time in months.

Sgt. Colby Parker, 22, was met by his mother, Michelle, who has hasn’t seen in more than 9 months.

“It was overwhelming. I couldn't have been happier. It was a great welcome home I couldn't wait to see her and this whole crew. It was amazing,” said Sgt. Parker.

The soldier was escorted back to Mobile from Ft. Deposit where his unit was dismissed. 

Sgt. Parker is a medic for the Alabama National Guard and says he was in southern Afghanistan, helping troops slowly pull out of the region.

His unit returned to the United States last week, however they were dismissed today.

“I can't even tell you,” said Sgt. Parker’s mother, Michelle. “I mean, just thinking about him every day and you say the prayers and you hope they're ok, and you’re so very proud of them but at the same time you want them right here.”

Patriot Guard Riders also helped welcome back several other local soldiers, who went straight home for some much deserved R&R.

“We're always excited to see them coming in safe and sound and to welcome them home. It’s a feeling that's hard to describe,” said ride captain, Bob Johnson.