Welcome Home, Soldier

Crissy, Wesley, Donna and Bob Poell. This picture was taken just prior to his departure.

This post is going to be dedicated to our cousin, Sgt. Wesley Poell. He returned on October 18th after serving approximately 9 months. He is a member of (please forgive me if we word this incorrectly) the 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery. He was stationed in Ashraf, Iraq which is north of Baghdad. They had a ceremony for his unit when they arrived home to Wichita. We loaded the kids up and took them down to Century II for the emotional homecoming. The Kansas Patriot Guard was also there in all their glory (motorcycles, leather, and American flags in tow). It was quite a scene and something we will NEVER forget.

Wes, Moni and Forrest. Forrest is sizing him up, thinking "I've got more hair than you!"

Wes, Stubby and Pius. Pius is thinking, "I ALMOST have as much hair as you!"

Wes, Moni and the Banana Princess. Danna's thinking, "I KNOW I'm the best lookin' chick you've seen in 9 months, but try to contain your excitement."

While Wesley was over there, we were able to exchange emails, and he was able to keep up with the Quad Squad overseas. He is probably responsible for the Graf Victory in Dance Wars vs. the Tubre Quads as he and his fellow squad members all voted for the mad dance skillz of the kids. He also told me that he is ready to teach the boys how to actually dance because he has seen me in action and I help prove the theory right: "White guys can't dance." Just kidding about the Dance-off, Tubre Quads. The government didn't provide them with fast enough internet to be able to participate in the voting.

I was so happy that he and his sister, Crissy, showed up for my birthday last week at the bowling alley. He helped coach us to 3 more wins and get us to the top of the standings. (Actually he just made fun of Ryno and me because we were horrible).

Crissy and Wesley

Anyone who knew him before he left can tell what he spent his little free time doing over there because he is a freakin rock now. I don't think I can beat him up anymore. My wife has been drooling over his six-pack and arms since we saw him.

Wesley....on the clock.

Wes holding his godson, Zach Graf

Wes and Stubby. Stubby thinking, "Six-pack?! More like an eight-pack! Get in my belly!"

We love you so much and are thankful you came home safely to us, Wesley. Our hearts and prayers go out to your unit and to the family and friends of your fallen comrade, Sgt. Schmidt. We are forever grateful to ALL who serve, and have served, so we can live our lives freely.

Love,

Billy, Moni, Pius, Forrest, Danna and Laine (not pictured anywhere in this post....oh well)