Community salutes work of Bravo Company

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Hundreds of people -- many in camouflage -- filled the gym bleachers Sunday to thank people like Jennifer and Felipe Gonzalez.

To serve their country, the Yakima couple gave up a year in their young daughter's life during their deployment to Iraq in the Bravo Company 181st Brigade Support Battalion.

"Oh my goodness, it's so good to be home," said Jennifer Gonzalez, 22, holding her 2-year-old daughter, Izabella, by the hand.

The Gonzalez family and others were honored Sunday at a "Freedom Salute" ceremony by the National Guard at Eisenhower High School.

"This is to recognize our heroes who have safely returned after a difficult combat," said Col. Duane Coffey during a speech to the soldiers and their families. "You represent everything that is good about being a soldier."

The main Yakima-based element of the 181st Brigade left for Iraq in July 2008 and returned to Fort Lewis in August.

For many soldiers, Sunday was the first time since returning home that they could catch up with their friends.

"It's nice to see certain faces again," said Staff Sgt. Jose Acevedo, as some of his friends' names were being called to the center of the gym floor for recognitions.

Acevedo, a 39-year-old from Yakima, said he was happy he could be with his two daughters for the ceremony.

In a way, the "Freedom Salute" was as much to thank the soldiers' families for their support during their loved ones' deployment.

Specialist Lorena Charron, a 20-year-old from Tri Cities, said her parents, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends were all in attendance.

"I think it's cool they came because they're proud," she said. "And they got to see how well we did, and all the awards we got."

The Bravo Company, based at the Yakima Training Center, was responsible for convoy security and other missions across Iraq.

Some local residents attended the ceremony even if they don't know anybody in the military.

"We wanted to come out and support our troops," said Colleen Belles, a 53-year-old Selah resident. "It's important to be involved in what's happening and let them know that we're behind what they're doing for our country."

* Melissa Sánchez can be reached at 509-577-7675 or msanchez@yakimaherald.com.