Bangor, Maine – “Thanks for coming” rang out from behind us as we walked across the street in front of the airport to get to our car.  I turned to see a gathering of soldiers from the most recent flight of troops to land in Bangor on their way home from their deployment in Iraq.  They were standing on the street in front of the airport, grabbing a quick smoke before reboarding their plane for the final leg of their journey home. They waved, we waved back, and we all went on our way the better for the experience.
   We had made our way to the airport because my 14 year old nephew from St. Louis was visiting us, and the Troop Greeters at BIA are a uniquely Maine experience that we thought he should have the chance to see and participate with.  We chose this particular night because the son of our sports writer, Carroll Conley, was on the flight, coming home after a 15-month deployment in Iraq.  Carroll, his wife Terri, and their extended family were all gathered at the airport, along with several other families and the Troop Greeters to welcome this flight back home.
   As the arrival time approached, people gathered at the runway windows to catch a glimpse of the landing plane.  Soon a trickle of troops turned into a torrent as the members of the 2nd Stryker Brigade, of the 23rd infantry Division (based in Washington State) came down the ramp to an applauding assembly of well wishers.  Each soldier was warmly greeted by dozens of people as they worked their way down the receiving line shaking hands.  In response to the repeated “thanks”, one young man simply responded “it was all worth it”.  As I looked up the ramp toward the front of the line, SPC Nathan Conley had been re-united with his parents and family, and the long over due visit commenced.
   As I drove away from the airport, I reflected on the appreciation that had been expressed to me for taking an hour out of my day to greet the troops.  In comparison to the 15 months they had been away from family and friends protecting my way of life, my efforts pale.  As is usually the case, I came up with an appropriate response after the moment was over.  However, I’m going to use it here.  To all of these soldiers, as well as all of the others who I will never meet, Thanks for coming!