More than 500 Vanguard soldiers returned home this week to loved ones waving flags, holding welcome signs and promising endless hugs on Fort Stewart’s Cottrell Field.

Ninety-two troops hopped off three white buses around noon Monday, braving South Georgia’s high heat and haze. This group was followed just after midnight Tuesday by 18 busloads of 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team soldiers. And Thursday evening, another main body of 4th IBCT troops is expected to return with the unit’s colors, according to Fort Stewart spokesman Kevin Larson.

“I just want to say thanks and congratulations for a job well done,” 3rd Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Robert Abrams said after saluting returning troops Monday. “You have so much to be proud of. Welcome home.”

Read more in the June 22 edition of the News.