National Guard Troops Return, Greeted by Widow of Fallen Soldier

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National Guard Troops Return, Greeted by Widow of Fallen Soldier

By Carolyn Thompson Associated Press Writer

Published: Apr 24, 2004

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (AP) - There were joyful family reunions for the 120 National Guard troops who returned home Saturday after a year in Iraq, and a poignant reminder of two soldiers missing from the homecoming.

Kelly McMillin, widow of Sgt. Heath McMillin, was among the first to greet the soldiers of the 105th Military Police Co. who touched down at the Niagara Falls Air Base. Out on the tarmac, apart from the throngs who would see their loved ones again, she accepted carnations and hugs from her husband's comrades.

Heath McMillin, 29, was killed July 27 when his vehicle was hit by explosives while on patrol south of Baghdad. Spc. Michael Williams, 46, was killed in a similar explosion in October.

The unit suffered several other casualties as it escorted supply convoys through the war zone. Members earned a battery of medals for bravery.

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