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NC National Guard troops welcomed home in Hickory

HICKORY, N.C. — Dozens of North Carolina national guardsmen are back home safe Friday after serving away from home for months.
 
A standing ovation and prayer greeted the 630th Combat Support Battalion.
 
Fifty soldiers were warmly welcomed home by family and friends after being deployed for nine months.

Their mission was to help keep the peace between Egypt and Israel.

It was a first deployment for some like Patric Villeda, who said they relied on each other in the field..

"It was a great brotherhood, something you can't break," Villeda said. "It's hard but with those people beside you, that to comfort you, that's what you need." 

The ceremony was also a tribute to loved ones at home whose support helped them make it through.

"That package or letter from your wife, it is really great -- wonderful supporting you at home. She's wonderful and I love her," he said.

And the community recognized all of them for their service and the hard work completed with excellence, pride and honor.