Given the short time we had to put this ride together (24 hrs) and coming early in the week, when so many are at work or on vacation, the Welcome Home escort for Sgt. Jeremy Detwiler might have been less than stellar. It was, instead, an excellent turn out on a beautiful day, with 15 bikes and 2 cages there to escort this Hero back to the arms of his family and expectant wife. This brave young man had just returned after a year in Iraq, serving his country and enduring the separation from his wife, family and friends, who also suffered the heartache and worry that only those at home know. And today the Warriors Watch Riders was able to show our support and, in a small way, say ‘Thank You’, to all of them. Thank You Sgt. Detwiler for your service to our country and standing for us here at home. Thank you to the Detwiler family for bearing the year long separation of a loved one.

The Warriors Watch Riders assembled at our designated rally point, the Walmart Sopping Center in Elverson, where Sgt. Detwiler, having made good time on his drive from Pittsburgh, was waiting for us, along with several officers from the Lower Providence PD and other townships. A quick briefing by Motor Officer Nealy, who was to take point in our convoy, and we were on our way. With both beautiful weather and good roads the actual escort was one of the easiest I’ve ever been on. We held about 35-40 MPH the entire route and Officer Nealy did a fantastic job of keeping us rolling non stop to the New Hanover Fire House. There we were greeted by the Detwiler family and their friends, Maria Hyland of A Hero’s Welcome, and a fire truck draped with American Flags and signs welcoming Sgt. Detwiler. Next, hand shakes and hugs were given all around as our Hero was finally back home. Channel 10 News was there to record the occasion and did a nice interview with Jeremy, his wife and family. We were extended the hospitality of joining with the Detwiler family and  invited into the fire house for food and refreshments, which all of us sincerely appreciated by all of us. It was a great finish to a great mission.

I was able to speak with Sgt. Detwiler, his Mother, Judy, his Father, Dave, his Wife, Jennifer and his grandmother. Each was deeply impressed and grateful for what the Warriors Watch had done for them on this happy day. I explained that we wish we could do at least this much for each and every serviceman or woman who stands in our defense, and gives so much to all of us. But we got it done right today. Good Job All.