Sun staff
United States Army Specialist Kevin Long returned home to a warm welcome from county officials after his deployment to Afghanistan.
Clermont County Commissioners welcomed Long, who grew up in Clermont County, home with a ceremony during their Dec. 10 session.
“We commend you for your service and welcome you home,” Commissioner David Uible said.
Clermont County Commissioner Bob Proud said he remembers Long participating in the National Day of Prayer ceremony when Long was young and heard from Long’s mother years later that the New Richmond graduate was being deployed to Afghanistan.
Long was stationed in Afghanistan February-October and recently returned to Clermont County.
Receiving support from home while he was deployed meant a lot to Long.
“For most of us in Afghanistan, support from home really helps,” Long said. “For us it’s nice to get things from home. It helps remove you temporarily from where you’re at.”
Clermont County is also a great place to return home to if you’re a serviceman, Long said.
“Clermont County does an amazing job of recognizing military personnel, more than most places,” Long said.
Being recognized by commissioners made Long proud to serve the country.
“It makes you proud of the uniform and proud of what you’ve done,” Long said. “Ever since I have joined the support has been overwhelming.”
In addition to commissioners, Long was recognized by Sheriff A.J. “Tim” Rodenberg, members of the Clermont County Veterans’ Service Commission and Jeff Uckotter with Congressman Brad Wenstrup’s office.
Rodenberg and Howard Daugherty, executive director of the Veterans’ Service Commission, presented Long with challenge coins.
“We honor your service,” Daugherty said. “I am so proud of you.”
He also received certificates from Governor John Kasich and Lieutenant Governor Mary Taylor, Treasurer Josh Mandel.
Long also took time to thank the Vietnam War veterans in attendance for their service.
“I kind of feel small filling you gentleman’s shoes,” Long said. “It’s because of your generation that we receive gratitude.”
Long said he will continue to serve in the Army and will return to Fort Campbell in Kentucky in January.
He hopes to finish college and maybe teach history when he is done serving.