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"Welcome Home” campaign for Iraq troops raises nearly $196,500
More than a year ago, 180 National Guardsmen from the Leesburg Armory packed their bags and left their families behind to answer their nation's call in Operation Iraqi Freedom.Their families also answered the call to duty, shouldering additional burdens in the absence of their husbands, fathers, sons and brothers. In late April, these families were reunited when the Guardsmen returned to the Leesburg National Guard Armory, where their loved ones were waiting.
To welcome home the Guardsmen, and to thank them and their families for their service, the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Loudoun Cares led a campaign to raise funds and gift certificates to area restaurants and shops. The result: more than $112,500 in financial contributions and more than $84,000 in gifts certificates to area restaurants, hotels, golf courses, shops and concert tickets.
"The generosity of Loudoun businesses and residents is surpassed only by the depth of our gratitude for our friends and neighbors in the National Guard, and throughout the military, that have answered our nation's call to duty. Loudoun County has clearly set an example for the entire nation on how to honor the service of our citizen-soldiers in the National Guard," said Chamber President Tony Howard.
And Andy Johnston, Executive Director of Loudoun Cares says, "Most powerful for me was hearing from donors who felt that a charitable donation in support of our Guardsman was a very minor financial sacrifice in light of the tremendous personal and emotional sacrifices made by the Guardsman and their families."
"On behalf of all the Soldiers of Company C, I thank all the individuals and businesses that supported the unit with their generous contributions. All of you made our homecoming a truly amazing and remarkable experience. We appreciate the outpouring of support and love that has been provided. All of you are an example of what makes this country great. Thank you," said Capt. Giancarlo Brizzi, commander of Company C, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.
Upon the return of Company C to Leesburg on April 25, the unit was presented with certificates and other gifts worth approximately $50,000. The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Loudoun Cares plan to present the balance of the donations to Capt. Brizzi and his unit when Company C returns to duty for the Freedom Salute program on August 16 at Heritage High School in Leesburg.
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