By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Letter to the editor: Thanks for making the homecoming a success
Placeholder Image
Dear Editor:  On behalf of the Main Street Covington program I would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation the support from the community for the Homecoming Celebration for Georgia National Guard Bravo Company 1st Battalion - 121st Infantry. It is important for our community and nation to express our gratitude and thanks to those who serve our country for their sacrifice and patriotism. The Homecoming Celebration exemplified this.
 
American Legion Post 32, Harvest Baptist Church, The Church of the Good Shepherd and First Baptist Church made sure that the troops were hosted to lunch on Saturday and Sunday that no one would have left hungry from. Thank you all for being such wonderful and generous hosts.
 
The city of Covington and the Newton County Commission ensured that the downtown was readied for the event. Thanks to the Newton High School ROTC who presented the colors — it’s inspiring to see the high school students participate in these community events — and to Jackie Smith, county commission clerk, who so beautifully performed the National Anthem. Many thanks to Senator John Douglas, Newton County Commission Chair Kathy Morgan, Mayor Kimberly Carter and Pastor Richard Culpepper of Harvest Baptist Church whose thoughtful words expressed the community’s appreciation and indebtedness to the troops for their service. Special thanks also to Commander Bobby Hamby of the American Legion Post 32, who not only served on the organizing committee but did a terrific job as Master of Ceremonies.
 
Most importantly we would like to thank the citizens who lined the streets and welcomed the troops to the square with such heartfelt applause and cheers. Those handmade signs and flags being waved were wonderful touches and much appreciated by the troops.
 
There were many agencies and individuals that committed, through Operation Patriots Call, to take care of the troops of Bravo Company and their families during the deployment to Afghanistan.  The Homecoming Celebration was symbolic of all of those efforts and we joyously celebrate the safe return of Bravo Company 1st Battalion -121st Infantry.