JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- A colonel received a fitting welcome Sunday.
Nearly 20 family members and friends gathered at Jacksonville International Airport to greet their hero, Army Colonel Robert Doerer.
"This is a symbolic day today," Doerer said, "a day before our independence day, and four years ago tomorrow I was promoted to colonel in Jacksonville."
After three tours in Iraq, and most recently being stationed in Germany, in charge of the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, Col. Doerer, his wife Tammy and their two kids know how important it is for his fellow military members to feel the support coming from America.
Tammy Doerer said, "Our families out there have been through a lot."
That support is especially important during this patriotic holiday.
Col. Doerer said, "They're out there doing that so we can celebrate with BBQ's and fireworks. We can enjoy what we can enjoy each and every day. Going to school, working, celebrating, being with friends."
Coming from a long line of military members in his family, Col. Doerer has two weeks to enjoy here in Jacksonville, before they are off on their next mission. Aside from family, the Doerer's son Camden knows what he missed most about America.
Camden, with certainty, said, "Eating, American food!"
First Coast News