Army Reserve troops welcomed home in Green Bay

ASHWAUBENON -- Soldiers with the 432nd Civil Affairs Battalion out of Ashwaubenon received an official welcome home this weekend. The troops and their families were honored for their sacrifices.

One hundred soldiers lined up in formation at the Kress Event Center at UW-Green Bay. The drill was part of a special operation for the 432nd Civil Affairs Battalion called the "Welcome Home Warrior Citizen Ceremony."

It's part of a tradition in the Army Reserve -- recognizing the sacrifices that not only the soldiers make during deployment, but their families too.

For Staff Seargent Darrin Dahms, his year in Afghanistan meant leaving behind a wife, Dana, and a daughter not even one year old at the time he deployed.

The family reunited back in late March when Darrin's deployment ended.

Dana had made do with pictures and videos of Darrin -- constantly sharing them with their daughter, Layla.

"We're home and it's a really great feeling because we get a lot of support from the community here in Green Bay and it's great to have all our family recognized," Darrin Dahms said.

After two months of re-adjusting to family life and the community, the welcome home ceremony honored the soldiers and their families for their service and sacrifice.

"It absolutely is difficult. People don't quite understand, but once again, a lot of people in this community recognize the families and point out the sacrifices and it's really nice to be recognized as well," Darrin Dahms said.

The 432nd received a special plaque from the state Legislature honoring their service. They also received special recognition from their commanders, but the real reward has been being home again with family.

"To be able to hang out with my boys again after being gone for a year is awesome. We're still fairly new to Green Bay and I've never been a part of a ceremony like this. Feels good. You feel welcomed," Justan Fransway said.

Army officials say welcome home events are especially important for soldiers deployed for the first time. It helps them better adjust back into civilian life.