Georgia city plans parade for returning heroes

Troops with the 108th Cavalary have been in Afghanistan since January 2009. In early March, soldiers will begin returning home over a four or five day period to their respective armories. As the Calhoun Times reports, one Georgia city is already planning a patriotic celebration to salute the unit's return.

The parade will take place in Calhoun, Georgia, which threw a similar party when the 108th returned from Iraq in 2006. City officials are working with the military, veterans groups, and the Patriot Guard Riders to make sure the soldiers are appropriately honored.

Calhoun Police Chief Garry Moss said police and sheriff’s vehicles will escort the convoy through town, and a large crowd is expected to line the streets.

The Guardsmen will come west on Ga. 53 to U.S. 41, then travel north on U.S. 41 through downtown Calhoun, turning west onto Line Street before arriving at the armory on River Street.

A brief reception for the soldiers and their families is planned at the armory before the soldiers are released from duty.

Debra Kelly, of the 108th Cavalry’s Family Resource Group, said the group will be asking local businesses to have welcome home messages on their signs, display yellow ribbons on their facades and fly the American flag during the parade.

It's wonderful to see these returning heroes getting the recognition they deserve, and I hope the media takes notice of this event. In the meantime, let's all hope every member of the 108th Cavalry makes it back from Afghanistan safely.