More Than 300 Soldiers Returning To Louisiana

Welcome home ceremonies took place yesterday throughout the state to welcome back more than 300 Louisiana National soldiers who spent 10 months on active duty in the Middle East.

Louisiana National Guard spokesperson Col. Mike Kazmierzak says the returning soldiers are part of the 844th and 1021st Engineer Company.

"They've been performing engineer support operations in Kuwait," Kazmierzak said.

The 1021st is based in Covington, while the 844th is based in Pineville. Both units conducted post mobilization training at Fort Bliss, Texas.

The 844th engineering company will fly into the Alexandria International Airport tonight. Kazmierzak says the 1021st is busing back to various locations throughout Louisiana.

"The buses were decided upon because the initial bid for aircraft was not picked up by any of the airlines," Kazmierzak said. "So the army moved ahead with bus contracts to make sure we get them back."

There are about 500 Louisiana National Guard soldiers still serving overseas.