4th BDE., 2nd inf. div. — Advance party returns; entire unit scheduled to arrive later this month

Stryker unit’s homecoming an event for family, friends

Technology helps family members track arrival, as first 110 Soldiers return after 15 months away

By Spc. Aaron Carpenter, I Corps Public Affairs

It wasn’t breakfast in bed but it was just as sweet for those in attendance at Sheridan Gym for the 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division’s homecoming Saturday morning.

Roughly 200 family members and friends of the returning Soldiers packed the gym to welcome them home.

Approximately 110 Soldiers assigned to the 4th Bde. 2nd Inf. Div., came home as part of the advance party. The stands were buzzing as technology made it possible for the crowd to track the arrival.

The Visual Information Section provided live coverage of the landing and Soldiers coming off the plane, and cell phones tracked the rest of the trip as family members talked to their heros every step of the way.

Jill Rybuf said she’s been able to talk to her husband, Cary, one way or another. That was good news for their two children, Rita and Thomas.

“They could talk to Daddy and know that he’s around and safe,” Rybuf said.

The Rybufs have a special time planned at Dash Point.

“Every spare time he has he’s either with me or fishing,” Rybul said of the spot that her husband hasn’t been to since his block leave.

She said the spot is somewhere special for him and the kids to go.

Retired Lt. Gen. Pat Roddy and his wife Barbra received a call from their son, Pat Jr., a few days earlier, letting them know he was coming home. They said they didn’t have anything special planned; they just wanted to get their son home from his third tour. “I think he knows we love him and back him one hundred percent and his men,” said Barbra Roddy.

Staff Sgt. Aldo Gonzalez had a heartfelt homecoming with his family in attendance. His family has planned a barbecue. “I’m sure there’s going to be a lot of crying and happiness,” Mary Gonzalez, his aunt, said.

His family just wants to get him some of that home-cooked Mexican food that he grew up on. He will be eating all of his favorite dishes such as carne asada, fideo, fresh beans, tortillas and hot salsa.

About 15 more family members will celebrate with him before his trip back home to Texas.

It didn’t take long for the gym to clear out as the celebration started with the whole day before them.

The larger 4th Bde., 2nd Inf. Div., return parties are scheduled to arrive later this month.