TOLEDO, Ohio – On a crisp December evening in 2003, the Ohio Army National Guard’s 323rd Military Police Company, based in Toledo, touched down at the Toledo Express Airport after more than eight months overseas. The soldiers had been deployed to Iraq, where they helped train Iraqi police forces, and their arrival marked a heartfelt homecoming for the service members and their families.
Homecoming celebrations
Families gathered at the airport, clutching signs, balloons, and homemade banners that read “Welcome Home” and “Thank You for Your Service.” Children ran to embrace parents and grandparents, while spouses shared tears of relief and joy. The reunion was captured on video by 13 Action News, which later aired the footage as part of its “Unlocked: The 13abc Vault” series.
Service and sacrifice
The 323rd Military Police Company had been activated in early 2003, completing basic training at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, before shipping out to Iraq. Their primary mission was to mentor and train local police units, a critical component of the broader effort to stabilize the region and build sustainable security forces. The soldiers’ work helped lay the groundwork for improved public safety in Iraqi communities.
Community response
Toledo residents rallied around the returning troops, organizing a welcome‑home ceremony that included local officials, clergy, and community leaders. The event highlighted the city’s deep respect for its service members and underscored the strong ties between the National Guard and the families they protect. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families during the long deployment.
Looking back
More than two decades later, the “Unlocked: The 13abc Vault” episode revisits those emotional reunions, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a pivotal moment in Toledo’s recent history. The segment airs live on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at 7:30 p.m. on 13+, allowing viewers to reflect on the enduring bond between the city and its National Guard members.
Continuing legacy
Today, the 323rd Military Police Company remains an integral part of the Ohio Army National Guard, ready to answer future calls to service. The 2003 homecoming serves as a reminder of the resilience of Toledo families and the nation’s commitment to supporting those who serve abroad.
For those who missed the live broadcast, the episode will be available on demand through the 13+ streaming platform. The station encourages viewers to share their own memories of the 2003 return and to honor the ongoing contributions of Ohio’s service members.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
