RICHMOND, Ky –
The Kentucky National Guard welcomed home more than 150 soldiers from the 2123rd Transportation Company Feb. 4 at the First Baptist Church in Richmond, Ky.
The soldiers returned after nearly a year in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be back home,” said Spc. DaRun Poe, 2123rd TC truck driver. “It’s been a long year and it’ll be nice to not see a tent or b-hut full of guys. I’m glad to be back home with my family.”
The 2123rd TC conducted cargo transportation and armed escort for more than 150 convoys, safely traveling more than 600,000 miles throughout eastern Afghanistan.
“The 2123rd set a new standard while in Afghanistan,” said Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini, adjutant general for Kentucky. “The 101st asked for this unit by name to execute the tough transportation missions and they were superb every time.”
This Kentucky Guard unit was responsible for delivering critical supplies and equipment to more than 20 different forward operating bases and combat outposts throughout the region.
“As your governor, former U.S. Army Reservist, and your commander in chief,” said Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear, “I wanted to be here today and say, welcome home and job well done.”
The unit was directly engaged in combat more than 40 times. During the deployment, the Army awarded 18 Purple Hearts and more than 80 Combat Action Badges to the Soldiers assigned to the 2123rd TC for their actions in Afghanistan.
“Words do not express how proud I am to have served with you,” said Capt. John Moore, 2123rd TC commander addressing his troops during the ceremony. “Our unit decorations speak for themselves. Be as proud of yourselves as I am proud of you.”