In 1968 Marines coming home from the Vietnam War were often met at the airport by protestors.  These protestors often called them names, and harrassed them just because they wore a uniform...

In 2009 a Marine coming home from serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom is often met at the airport--by patriotic Americans who remember that the sacrifices made by our Marines and their families is the primary reason why we enjoy the freedoms that we do in the United States.  These Patriotic Americans often carry Marine Flags, are dressed in their finest Marine gear, call these Marines brave and courageous, thank them for their service, and appreciate their willingness to wear the uniform...

MCFSC organizes Welcome Home events at Port Columbus International Airport when we know that a Marine is returning from deployment and is coming through Port Columbus.  Members are notified via the newsletter, special e-mails and telephone calls notifying members that a Marine is heading home. 

Who Can Have A Welcome Home?

MCFSC generally welcomes home Marines that are returning home on leave after having deployed.  However, we will welcome home any service member if we know about them.

What is Involved in a Welcome Home?

Welcome Homes can be as elaborate as inviting the Patriot Guard and or the Leathernecks Motorcycle Clubs to escort your Marine home, along with a gathering at the USO at Port Columbus.  It can be as simple as standing at the gate and welcoming home the Marine, shaking his/her hand, thanking them for their service and dedication.  It's up to you.

MCFSC Members meet under the arrival/departure sign on the main concourse, generally 1/2 hour before the flight is scheduled to land.  They wear their finest Marine gear, bring flags and hold signs.  A lot of times we get the folks there at the airport for other reasons involved, and they hold up signs and congratulate the Marine.

How Do I Get a Welcome Home Scheduled?

The first step is to contact Roger Bock, our Welcome Home Coordinator.  E-mail Roger at rogerbock@mcfscoh.org and let him know that you'd like to arrange a Welcome Home. 

Roger will talk you through how to have an event arranged.  For security reasons we will not post the process, you must contact Roger. 

 Sign up to be Notified of Welcome Home Events