They put their lives on hold to answer the call of duty. Today, the US Army honored about 50 local reservists in a "Welcome Home Warrior Ceremony" at Ellington Field.
Though they stood stoically in formation, many army reservists say they're excited and moved to be recognized for serving their country in time of war.
"You my fellow army reservist soldiers are the current generation of American patriots," Major General Eldon Regua addressed the group. "I am humbled to serve with you. It is your selfless acts of honor and service that reminds the world of ... The American spirit."
Among today's 50 honorees at the 75th division's ceremony was Lt. Colonel Bill Gazis, who came back from Iraq several months ago.
"I was there for approximately eight months," said Gazis. "It was a great tour... I really enjoyed it. The efforts are very worthwhile. There are great results. A lot of things you don't see on the news, but it's really incredible what's going on there like rebuilding hospitals, schools ... those kinds of things."
Each recipient received an encased American flag, a specialized commemorative pin, a lapel pin set, and gratitude from prominent politicians.
"You chose to step forward in the defense of the greatest nation in the history of the world," said US Rep. John Culberson, who was a guest speaker at the event.
Awardees say events like today make them feel appreciated.
Something, Vietnam vet and medal of honor recipient, Clarence Sasser says soldiers like him didn't get when they came home.
"It's entirely different now," said Sasser. "We thank God for that."
Though they stood stoically in formation, many army reservists say they're excited and moved to be recognized for serving their country in time of war.
"You my fellow army reservist soldiers are the current generation of American patriots," Major General Eldon Regua addressed the group. "I am humbled to serve with you. It is your selfless acts of honor and service that reminds the world of ... The American spirit."
Among today's 50 honorees at the 75th division's ceremony was Lt. Colonel Bill Gazis, who came back from Iraq several months ago.
"I was there for approximately eight months," said Gazis. "It was a great tour... I really enjoyed it. The efforts are very worthwhile. There are great results. A lot of things you don't see on the news, but it's really incredible what's going on there like rebuilding hospitals, schools ... those kinds of things."
Each recipient received an encased American flag, a specialized commemorative pin, a lapel pin set, and gratitude from prominent politicians.
"You chose to step forward in the defense of the greatest nation in the history of the world," said US Rep. John Culberson, who was a guest speaker at the event.
Awardees say events like today make them feel appreciated.
Something, Vietnam vet and medal of honor recipient, Clarence Sasser says soldiers like him didn't get when they came home.
"It's entirely different now," said Sasser. "We thank God for that."
