Families, friends and supporters gathered at the Mathewson Exhibition Center this morning as 120 soldiers of the 35th Combat Aviation Brigade of the Missouri National Guard returned from Kuwait. Governor Jay Nixon welcomed back the soldiers on behalf of Missouri and was proud of their efforts. Nixon said he appreciates the honor, courage, duty, a love of country that these men and women displayed and believes families and friends should be proud of their service.

Major General Steve Danner, Adjutant General of the Missouri National Guard, reminded the soldiers while the tour of duty overseas was complete, they still have the duty to represent America, Missouri and the communities they live in, and appreciated their service. Danner recognized the efforts that Col. Mark W. McLemore and Sgt. Major William J. Vogel displayed in their leadership.

Sedalia Mayor Elaine Horn also welcomed the troops home on behalf of Sedalia and the Whiteman Community Council. There were also representatives of Representative Vicky Hartzler, Senator Roy Blunt and Senator Claire McCaskill.

The 35th Combat Aviation Brigade executed numerous flight hours supporting vital theater missions and the inter-theater movement of passengers and cargo. More than 300 hours were directly tied to partnership support and operations.

We welcome back the men and women of the 35th CAB!

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