Joyful homecoming for 495th troops

There were lots of cheers, tears and hugs as the Montana National Guard 495th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion arrived back in the Flathead Valley late Saturday night after a nine-month deployment in Afghanistan.

It’s always heartwarming to welcome back our military service men and women, and we’re glad they’re out of harm’s way. The significance of this homecoming was amplified by the presence of Montana Gov. Steve Bullock and U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, who arrived at the Glacier Jet Center along with a throng of military brass and scores of families and friends of the soldiers.

Capt. Dan Bushnell of the 495th said “every day I was amazed by these soldiers.” We echo that sentiment, and thank each and every member of the 495th for their service to our country.

Another organization that is all about service to country and community is the American Legion, which just celebrated its centennial. Our local posts are carrying on the mission that began just after World War I ended, still focused on the organization’s four pillars: veterans affairs and rehabilitation, national security, Americanism and children and youth.

Local posts are actively involved in an array of community-service projects and programs for youth such as the Legion’s High School Oratorical Scholarship Program. And we can’t forget the white-cross program that marks each place where a traffic fatality has occurred. American Legion members erect the white crosses and dutifully maintain them as a reminder to drive safety.

We must also give a nod to the Legion’s auxiliary units that are equally involved in the community.

Thank you American Legion posts and auxiliaries for your service to our communities — here’s a salute to another 100 years of service.