Heartland employees witnessed a joyous occasion September 17 when members of the 211th Engineer Battalian, Sapper (based out of Madison and DeSmet) returned home from 12 months of active duty in Afghanistan.  The 113 guardsmen and women were honored with a motorcade through Madison that began at the end of Heartland’s driveway and included motorcycles, a fire truck and vintage Holiday Train, Engine No.25.  The route ended at the DSU Fieldhouse where the troops were officially welcomed home by S.D. Governor Mike Rounds, Major General Steven Doohen of the S.D. National Guard and Madison Mayor Gene Hexom.

Below are some images captured while the motorcade assembled near Heartland headquarters.

Heartland honors and thanks all the brave men and women who serve our country. Welcome home.