Local serviceman returns from Iraq

Over a thousand people cheered while waving American flags as soldiers from the 1404th Arizona Army National Guard made their way home back to their friends and families after being deployed in Iraq for over 17 months. The soldiers arrived back to Arizona on Thursday, April 15 at the Show Low National Guard Armory.

One lucky man, Specialist John Ortega from Winslow, was among the soldiers who returned home to friendly, familiar faces. OrtegaÕs wife, Isabel, and his daughter, Lori Belone, and other family members awaited OrtegaÕs arrival at the armory in Show Low last week.

While waiting for her husband to arrive, Mrs. Ortega said ÒI think IÕm more nervous and anxious to see John than I was last weekend when I was able to visit him in Fort Bliss, Texas. I just canÕt believe he is really coming home to stay. I only hope heÕs not mad that I rearranged our house.Ó

OrtegaÕs daughter, Lori, said, ÒWe all are looking forward to seeing my dad and catching him up on all the things that he has missed while he was away.Ó

Ortega and the rest of his unit were supposed to arrive in Show Low at 2:30 p.m. but were held up several times by large crowds of people that wanted to greet the soldiers. The unit arrived at approximately 5:45 p.m. to a crowd who was anxious for their arrival.

Upon arriving, the soldiers departed their buses and locked up their weapons and ammunition before lining up and marching to the front of the armory where they stood at attention as the National Anthem was played. After being dismissed, soldiers began embracing their families and friends.

For the Ortega family, tears and hugs were exchanged as the reality of their husband, father, grandfather and brother-in-lawÕs return was felt. OrtegaÕs face was full of pride as he greeted the women of his family with roses.

After about twenty-five minutes of tearful embraces, the Ortega family left the armory with plans to celebrate with their very own hero. On Sunday, April 18 the Ortega family gathered together and broke bread to celebrate OrtegaÕs safe return.

Ortega said he was grateful to be home, with his family and friends in the community. He also said he supports his fellow troops who remain in Iraq.

Proud to finally be home Ortega shared a few personal anecdotes that he experienced while stationed in Iraq. ÒThe most memorable day while in Iraq was the day I heard that they found and caught Sadam Hussein. I was eating in the chow hall, along with several other soldiers. When the news came in, we clapped and shouted for joy. Ortega also said that he also feels that most of the Iraqi people are very glad that the war took place and Sadam was captured. ÒI really only got the feeling that we as soldiers werenÕt welcome by the younger Iraqi generation who are too young to remember Iraq before Sadam.Ó

Ortega said he plans to retire from the National Guard in a few short weeks. ÒI have served my country for over 26 years. Operation Iraqi Freedom is not my first war. I also served in the Vietnam War. At this time I just want to sit back and enjoy my family and take my grandkids to Disneyland.Ó

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