Ohio National Guard Men and Women Return Home

AKRON, Ohio — Pride, patriotism and a sense of anxious anticipation filled the James A. Rhodes Arena in Akron Saturday.

Families and friends anxiously awaited the return of the 1,484th Transportation Company.  The 180 soldiers of the Ohio Army National Guard have been in Afghanistan this past year in a company that supported brigade combat teams.

Unit Commander Captain Angela Bailey told the crowd that the guardsmen performed convoy security missions and delivered supplies to other Army units.

“This company ran more missions within the Battalion than any other transportation company.  You were always the go to company in the battalion and also the brigade,” said Capt. Bailey.

The unit from North Canton calls themselves the “Red Dawgs”, but as they reunited with loved ones it became evident that they much rather be called fathers and sons, and mothers and daughters.

“We’re just happy that it’s over and that we’re home.  We’re just home,” SFC Jada Goodnight said.

Specialist Brook Zager was excited to see her son Noah, 2, and other members of her family–including one she met for the first time Saturday. Her 4-month-old nephew was born while she was deployed.

“Haven’t met him yet. And, he has had a long medical problems, so it is nice to see him, she said while kissing his hand. 

It was noted that our freedom comes at the expense of the sacrifice of our military and the family they leave behind. Sgt. William Porter said it was good to be back. 

“That’s about the best I can say for it. It’s been a long year,” he added.

His father echoed a similar sentiment.

“We are thankful that they all came back in one piece. We’re thankful they did an excellent job while they were over there,” Harry Porter said. 

The 1,484th Transportation Company received many awards for its accomplishments. No soldier was killed during the company’s deployment.