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Vernon Hills welcomed home our first resident serviceman, Lance Corporal James Hulse, of the United States Marine Corps, 3rd BN / 1st Marines, on December 8, 2007. Hulse, a 24-year old returning home from Iraq, was part of the first class to graduate from the Vernon Hills High School in 2002.
The day was frigid, but everything went off without a hitch. James was picked up at Chicago O'Hare airport by a limousine and then given a police escort through town to his home, where about 50 family, friends, and neighbors braved the cold temperature to give him a hero's welcome.
Welcome home James ... here are a few pictures to recap the day:
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The Countryside Rural Fire Protection
District went all out.
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The flag and ladders stretched all the way
across Deerpath.
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There was little doubt what was going
on down James' street.
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Everyone wanted to greet James
in their own way.
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A view from the police escort.
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The flags were proudly displayed
down the entire block.
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The VFW was on hand to
greet James as well.
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Of course, a proper "welcome home"
starts with a hug from mom!
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Mayor Roger Bryne presents James
with a proclamation.
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The VHPD presented James with area
restaurant gift certificates.
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James with the VFW.
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Now a local celebrity, James takes the time
to pose with some adoring fans!
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