Hugs, Tears As More Red Bulls Return

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- There were hugs and celebration as a second wave of Minnesota National Guard members returned home over the weekend. And more are expected to return home on Monday.

The National Guard 34th Infantry Red Bulls held a key role in the final phase of the Iraq War.

In all, 215 soldiers returned Sunday, and another 235 will return Monday.

"This is the happiest day of my life," said one person waiting for the return of her husband. "It was a very long wait, but it was definitely worth it."

They're part of the 3,000 Minnesota National Guard members returning home over the next few weeks.

In their nine months overseas, the Red Bulls had no deaths or serious injuries.