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Pocono News Section
Happy Homecoming for Carbon Co. Soldier
Happy Homecoming for Carbon Co. Soldier - Sunday, July 27, 2008 at 11:22PM EST
Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Sunday, Jul 27, 2008 @ 11:22pm EST
SUMMIT HILL, CARBON COUNTY- People from Summit Hill waited 10 months for this moment. Private Lee Michalick came home from Iraq Sunday and headed straight for his best friend - Willow.
"I missed my dog. I love my dog. It was good to see her too," he said.
Then the rest of the crowd got to say hello to their hometown hero. "I had no idea that everybody was going to be here - my parents didn't tell me on the way home - so it was a good feeling to see the town comes out and supports you," he said.
The Summit Hill Fire Company organized the welcome home event. Fire Chief Shawn Hoben said, "I think I speak for the whole department. I'm very proud that he's a firefighter in our department and more proud that he's protecting our freedom."
Lee’s Mom Connie Michalick said, "We're just really proud of him and we're so happy the fire department wanted to do this for him 'cause he's been a firefighter since he's 14 years old."
After the hero's welcome, lee got another honor. His fellow firefighters paraded him around town. "It's just very touching - all the support," added Connie.
Lee plans to spend his time at home catching up with all of these friends and relaxing. "Some barbecues - swimming - maybe go to Atlantic City or something. Maybe I'll get lucky. Win some money,” Lee said.
Even if he's doesn't hit the jackpot at the casino - he's already rich - with the friendship and pride of his hometown.
Lee will be home for 18 days, then he has to go back to Iraq. He hopes to be home for good in 4 months.
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