Welcome Home Soldiers

No matter what political stance one takes on a conflict or war, remembering those who serve in harm’s way is a thoughtful and wonderful gesture.  So many of those who take time from their lives to protect and serve their country go unnoticed.  Why not honor those who return with a Welcome Home party?

While planning a fantastic event right when the honoree returns may seem like a great idea, it is actually better to wait a few days after their return.  The honoree will need a couple of days to catch up on sleep, with immediate family and simply to assimilate back into civilian life.  Also, return plans can always change, and guaranteeing an arrival day and time is virtually impossible.  Schedule a welcome home celebration about a week after the honoree returns to ensure that they are back and rested, ready to receive visitors.

Decorating is so easy for such an event; try incorporating camouflage or the colors of the honoree’s branch of service with a bit of Americana.  Look for tableware and paper party goods in camo print or flag design.  Use plastic army helmets to hold chips or other snack-type foods.  Create a Welcome Home book full of decorated letters from friends and family, letting the honoree know how much he or she is loved and revered.  Scatter small toys around the tables for a bit of decor and fun.

The food served should be easy to prepare and something the honoree will appreciate.  Perhaps it is a good occasion for a cookout, or maybe something like chicken spaghetti or lasagna is more to his or her liking.  Check with the honoree to find out what is preferred.  Dessert is always welcome, but do not feel like a cake is a necessity.  Again, go with the honoree’s tastes; ask for his or her opinion.

Honoring those who have served our country so far from home is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together.  Make it an event that will be special, not just for the honoree, but for the guests as well.