Community Corner

Hometown Hero Returning From Afghanistan

A special party will be held for Army Spc. Joshua Meyers, a 2006 Lake Zurich High School graduate.

Being part of a close-knit family of seven children, it has been tough for Charity Meyers, her siblings and parents to be apart from their brother and son, Joshua Meyers, who is serving in Afghanistan.

But on Saturday, Joshua will return home on leave from the Army, where he serves as a specialist.

"We're thrilled — and it's in time for Christmas," said Charity. "We're so grateful that he's coming home safe."

A party will be held in Joshua's honor at noon Dec. 17 at Lake Zurich American Legion Post 964, 51 Lions Drive. Residents and local veterans are encouraged to attend.

Joshua is a 2006 graduate of Lake Zurich High School. A football player and track star in high school, Joshua had the opportunity to attend college on a football scholarship. Instead, with his desire to stay close to home, Joshua attended the College of Lake County for a couple of years, Charity said.

"When he enlisted (in the Army), we were shocked," said Charity.

Joshua now serves in Herat, Afghanistan. He recently re-enlisted and is awaiting his next assignment. Charity said her brother's decision to re-enlist came from a realization that while so many of his fellow soldiers are married and have children, he doesn't.

"He feels it's his duty to serve again," said Charity.

It's tough, though, when Joshua goes out on missions and his family doesn't hear from him for days, Charity said.

"We hear about casualties and we hold our breath," she said.

Charity said her dad has remained stoic throughout Joshua's deployment, but her mom clearly has been worried.

"I can't wait to see (Joshua) go up to my mom and dad and say hello and give them hugs," said Charity. "He's just so excited to get home."

Charity said she and her sisters will meet Joshua at O'Hare International Airport. Between 30 and 40 other family members plan to wait for Joshua at the baggage claim and then escort him home. Charity added that the Patriot Guard may join in the escort, along with police and fire officials.

The Meyers family is seeking donations — including food, beverages and money — to help with Saturday's celebration. American Legion Cmdr. John Barrington said if people want to donate money, they can write a check to the Lake Zurich American Legion with "Hometown Hero" in the memo line. For more information, contact Barrington at johnmbarrington@gmail.com or 1-847-800-3269.

Charity also asked that local businesses post signs to welcome Joshua home.


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