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177 Oregon guardsmen return from Iraq

WARRENTON, Ore. — Members of the Oregon National Guard’s 234th Engineer Company got a warm welcome home from Iraq on Friday with cheers and an ovation from family, friends and students at Warrenton High School.

The company of 177 soldiers was in Iraq for 219 days working as a security escort for supply convoys.

Gov. Ted Kulongoski was joined by State Sen. Betsy Johnson of Scappoose, Adjutant Gen. of Oregon Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, 82nd Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Charles Yriarte. and 1249th Engineer Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Alaine Encabo.

“It is a great honor to be with you here today,” said Kulongoski. “On behalf of the people of Oregon, it is good to have you back in Oregon. I know they, as am I, are proud of your service to your state and your country.”

Each member of the National Guard company received a coin commemorating service in Iraq.

While waiting to receive his coin, Staff Sgt. Charles Verbrugge of Seaside said it is “great” to be home. The former Marine and 13-year Guard veteran said he’ll take some time off with his wife and children.

The company has 18 soldiers from Oregon’s north coast, and some from as far away as Montana.