POV

Retired E7

What an amazing group of people. They were the last American Civilians that we saw before we left and they were the first American Civilians that we saw when we came back. Their hugs, handshakes, applause, the look in their eyes. All of this will never be forgotten by me. I was so encouraged by them. May God continue to bless them and keep them....

by David Hampe from Iowa Falls, Iowa
October 23, 2009, 10:20 AM

Captain

Stepping off a plane after being in a foriegn land for months, half-way around the globe to be greeted by strangers with open arms, warm smiles, and caring hearts is something one never forgets. The Troop Greeters are heros and represent the best in America, they made me feel that I was home and that everything will be alright. They treated me like family and I appreciate what they did and still do. I was Blessed to meet these folks twice, once returning from Saudi Arabia and once from Iraq. I can tell you that when I was returning the second time and heard we were stopping in Bangor, I was glad.

by Patrick Kelly from Virginia Beach, VA
November 5, 2009, 9:48 PM

Thanks for the Support

No one knew what comming home would be like we my unit landed in the little town of Bangor in 2004. Some recognized it as the home of Steven King; but now it will be known as the best place to reenter the country. The support from these indivituals is overwelmning. My flight arrived in Maine at about 2am, but there was nothing but relief on the Maine Greeters faces. Their congratulations, hand shakes, and hugs resonated with every soldier that has passed through that airport. As I sit in Iraq again, I hope I land in Bangor again to tell these individuals what they mean to all veterans.

by Josh Sturgill from Kapolei, HI
November 7, 2009, 5:50 PM

Mother

I saw the show. I now understand why they call them the greatest generation! My son came home from Iraq in May. I wish I has known then that there would be open arms for him to turn to. I feel so much better about sending him off to Afganastan next, knowning that those loving, kind and gentle souls will be there to say good bye, and be there for him when he gets back. They are the best ambassadors for our nation. I am proud to be their fellow american and an Army Mom. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

by Loretta Herman from Worcester, ma
November 9, 2009, 2:33 PM

E-5 U.S. Navy

After being in Norfolk for almost three months training, as I deplaned in Bangor, Maine for re spite before heading to Germany, and then on to Iraq. It was a very touching moment when we were greeted by the folks at the Bangor airport. I can tell you from first hand experience nothing feels better than to have a total stranger come up to you and thank you for serving our GREAT NATION. Afetr returning home I got the same heart felt caring that the greeters are known for. I said my thanks you but I wish I knew the names of the folks that I met that night. It meant so much to know that we have folks back here supporting our troops overseas in harms way. God bless these folks and all who have served and continue to serve our GREAT NATION.

by Jimmy D.Willeford from Haslet, Texas
November 10, 2009, 1:52 AM

HEARTWARMING EXPERIENCE
My husband and I spent a week in Maine celebrating our 40th wedding anniversay. We had many great moments during our trip but the most memoriable experience took place at the Bangor Airport waiting for our flight home. While there a plane full of soldiers arrived and we got to experience the greeting given to them by the Maine Troop Greeters. It was one of the most moving experiences I ever witnessed. To see all the young men and women heading to harms way and seeing the appreciation shown each and every one of the them by the Greeters was wonderful. These people are truly GREAT AMERICANS.

by Judy from Reinholds, PA
November 10, 2009, 9:53 AM

Something to remember

Returning from my second deployment was interesting. We were not allowed to disembark our plane in Frankfurt, Germany because of issues with the government at the time. So, we were stuck on that plane for about 24 hours until we got to Bangor, Maine. When we got off of the plane in the middle of the night, we were all greeted by these great people. I wish everyone could have that experience in life. There are not enough words to describe the feelings that overwhelm you at the airport in Bangor. Thanks a lot for making our trip feel a little better.

by Chris Black from Gahanna, OH
November 10, 2009, 11:18 AM

National Treasures

I am fortunate to live in Maine, and have witnessed the humble dedication of the troopgreeters since the first Gulf War, Desert Storm. Little did I know that I would have the opportunity to meet many of them when trying to gather flight information, on the short notice that my nephew soldier, who was stationed in Washington State, would be stopping in nearby Bangor International Airport to refuel before leaving this country for his first deployment to Iraq.

After contacting the troopgreeters with spotty information on my nephew's flight, I was given a window of time that the flight might be coming through Bangor. Several hours later, I received a call in the middle of the night that the flight was arriving early. After notifying other family in the area, we were able to get to the airport in time to surprise my nephew as he and hundreds of other soldiers arrived at the airport.

Our visit is something I hold dear to my heart, and the information on his demeanor and photos of our visit brought much relief to his parents in PA, who were understandably anxious about his first deployment.

A year later, on his return from Iraq, the flight was scheduled to refuel in Bangor and, again, I was able to met my nephew-tired, thinner, dusty dirty-yet thrilled to be back in the USA.

I made a point to get to the airport early, just to have some time to visit with the troopgreeters----they are a well organized group of magic and love, angels among us, really----and the closest thing to living National Treasures that I have ever experienced.

I feel blessed to have been in that airport when a troop flight comes in and have watched the troopgreeters in action. With the emotional weight of going to war, or the exhaustion of returning from war heavy in the air, the troopgreeters gentle, heartfelt kindness--a handshake, a smile, a hug, a cell phone, snacks, memorabilia, people who genuinely care for each and every soldiers' well being quietly, gently, respectfully let our soldiers know that no matter what will happen or has happened, it's deeply appreciated, and somehow, it will all turn out alright.

by Susan Tripp from Ellsworth, Maine
November 11, 2009, 7:48 AM

We were brought to tears when our daughter, Sgt. Jean Powell,US Army, was returning home from Operation Freedom, Iraq, to hear her tell of these wonderful people WELCOMING them home with hot coffee and donuts in the middle of the night (approximately 3 am) when none of their immediate family members could. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts....You are truly American heroes

by Mr. & Mrs. Richard Gillis from Orlando, Florida
November 11, 2009, 11:25 AM

RN, civilian citizen

This film has touched my heart in an incredible way. From the amazing volunteers to the military personnel returning from deployment, This reinforcees my pride in America and our troops and dedicated citizens who give to those who defend our freedom. I would love to speak personally o the Maine volunteers, especially the handsome gentlemanwith the tearful blue eyes who said he had no purpose. I am overwhelmed with the emotion of "his unique purpose". He is truly an angel on earth as are all these incredible volunteers. I can only strive to emulate these people in my own life. Both of my parents were Marines, and if i have any regrets in my life, is that I didn't serve my country in the military! Bless you all!

by Norine S. Elliott from Atascadero, California
November 11, 2009, 10:21 PM

Proud father of two Marine sons

Our two youngest son's Cpl Timothy Gillen (3rd Amphib. Assault Batt. and Cpl. Brendan Gillen (2nd Batt.-6th Marines) told our entire family how wonderful a group of Maine citizens were when they greeted them and other Marines on their departure and return from Al Anbar ,Iraq on four seperate occasions. They said that these fine people of Maine made everyone feel like they were among "FAMILY" and their warm greeting brought many of these very tough Leathernecks to tears. The people in this PBS documentary were truly "THE GREATEST GENERATION".
Our family will be for ever in your debt and I would like to make a donation to your organization.
God Bless all of you and thank you from a very grateful USMC family. Semper Fi

by Brian Gillen from Warwick, New York
November 11, 2009, 10:39 PM

Captain

What an inspirational film. The days I shook hands with Bill Knight on my way to and from OIF 08 were the best days of my deployment. It was wonderful to learn more about these amazing people, who mean so much to all of us who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thank you, Maine Greeters, one and all. You have made a difference in the lives of so many people.

by Charles Heidelberg from Gobles, MI
November 11, 2009, 10:45 PM

Mrs

I have photos that were taken of my husbands unit, A Co 63 EBB on the way to Iraq in July 2007 by these wonderful people. They were the first pictures of the soldiers I sent to the familes from our Family Readiness Group after the soldiers had left earlier in the day and everyone was still very numb and raw. Thank You for all you do!!!!!!!!!!!!

by Tamara Bell from Hepzibah, GA
November 11, 2009, 11:30 PM

housewife and mother

Bill,Joan and Jerry- You're story truly touched my heart and had me in tears and I'm so proud I got to see your story. You all are such a blessing. God bless you all !!! Thanks to all of the troops and their families for what you do and sacrifice for us everyday and thanks for keeping us safe!!!
With Love always, Mrs. Mozella Payton and family(Tupelo,MS)

by Mozella from Tupelo, MS
November 11, 2009, 11:50 PM

I just finished watching The Way We Get By and it was one of the most humbling, heartwarming things I've ever seen. I laughed and cried throughout, and the end left me wanting more. What a shining example of a loving, giving American the Troop Greeters are! I own a second home in Maine and on my next trip back I plan on driving up to Bangor and joining in on greeting the troops. Thank you, Veterans, for my freedom and for the sacrifices you've made for all of us. You truly are the backbone of our country and you have my utmost respect.

by Freda
November 12, 2009, 12:12 AM

Semper Fi

I just watched the PBS Documentary and was so very, very touched. What an absolutely unselfish gift these wonderful people are! It brought tears to my eyes and laughter to my heart. The storytelling of this documentary was so very well done. I hope these wonderful people are able to continue until all wars have ended for our troops.

I was a Viet Nam era Woman Marine and remember being spit on at the airport as I disembarked from the plane in my dress blues to attend an uncle's funeral. The tears I shed that day could still not ruin the deep pride I had to serve my country.

God bless our troops and these wonderful Maine Troop Greeters and the wonderful work they do. They have touched so many lives!

by Jill from Plant City, Florida
November 12, 2009, 2:53 AM

Aunt

What an awesome story. A wonderful insight on the lives of the Maine Greeters at the Bangor Airport. After watching the film I feel like I know them. My nephew came through Bangor Airport on his way to Iraq and then again on his return 15 months later. My sister was able to contact the greeters and join them when my nephew arrived. Tears and hugs were shared all around. Upon my arrival at work today I eagerly looked at the picture hanging on my wall of my nephew with a big smile on his face speaking with a Maine Greeter. Lo and behold it was Jerry Mundy! So special thanks to Jerry and all those special greeters who support our troops. You are the BEST!

by Carol Liddy from Millington, NJ
November 12, 2009, 9:11 AM

Troop Greeters

Last evening my wife and I passed up our normal TV programs to see what POV was about. What a smart move that was. What a wonderful group of people and I hope Bangor realizes what gems they have among them. It certainly appeared as though the troops were surprised and amazed by these people. I certainly wish Bill, Joan and Jerry all the best. May god not only bless our troops but also you group of terrific citizens.

by Ed Blackledge from Mansfield, OH
November 12, 2009, 11:56 AM

Aunti

Oh my gosh where or how do I begin to say what I felt while I watched this show last night. My heart goes out to all of the Maine Troop Greeters, Thank You for what you do. I would be right there with you if I could. My USMC nephew Austin, is returning with Golf Co. 2/8 from Afghanistan sometime in the next 24 hours and I can't wait to find out if he is one of the lucky ones to come through Bangor Maine. He will be on his way to Camp Lejeune. If Austin "Frosty" Steimer comes by tell him Aunti Pam is proud of him and glad he is on US soil. Again, Thank You for what you do for the troops, you make America look good!
Pam Blacksmith from Oregon

by Pam from Wilsonville, OR
November 12, 2009, 12:23 PM

Troop Greeters

I watch PBS quite often, Last night I watched " The Way We Get By". I was truly impressed with Joan, Bill and Jerry.
Their stories touched my heart and I cried a few times.
What an unselfish thing they are doing, giving of themselves to people that they dont know.
I am so proud to be an American and am more so now after watching what 3 people can accomplish.
Thank you and I hope to visit Maine someday, Who knows maybe I will stop by the airport to greet you!!
Thank you again and God Bless!!

by Barbara from Springfield, MO
November 12, 2009, 5:21 PM

school chum

I went to school with Jerry Mundy from age 10 thru age 14, in Brewer, Maine. Jerry and I were a "couple" thru my Junior year in High School(Newport, Maine). It was so awesome watching this movie, not only seeing and listening to Jerry(haven't seen him in about 20 yrs), but listening to Bill and Joan...makes me proud to be an American!

by Elaine from Mesa, AZ
November 12, 2009, 9:55 PM

Amazing

This documentary made me cry and question my support to our aging Veterans and our current soldiers. I served in the US Army from 1996-2000 and flew through Bangor, Maine personally in1999, clearly not during the trying times we face today. DAVID HAMPE - GOD BLESS YOU, I went to the same school as you and thank you for your continued service!

For Bill - thank you doesn't seem like enough. I hope someone is reaching out to this great man who gave such a sacrifice back in the day and still cares enough to understand what today's troops face. It isn't politics people - it is camaraderie and the love of this country that bonds us and sends us to do what we do!!!!

by Wendy Kinney from Rogers, Minnesota
November 12, 2009, 10:57 PM

I can hardly read through these comments because of the tears blurring my vision. I echo what everyone is saying, particularly what Susan in Maine says...that the troop greeters are national treasures. They surely are! I take issue with Bill's comment in the film, where he said (with tears in his eyes) that his life wasn't worth much to himself, but by doing what he does, maybe it's worth something to those whom he greets. Bill, your life IS worth so very much! You seem like a wonderful man, and I love you without even knowing you personally! I just wanted to reach through the TV screen and hug you. You reminded me of my own dad, a 90-year-old veteran of WWII. Keep up this wonderful work, and THANK YOU ALL...troop greets and veterans.

by Jane from Lansing, Michigan
November 13, 2009, 9:47 AM

Mrs. MA1 Carlson

My husband just left on his first tour to Iraq. He flew through Bangor, Maine and was blessed to meet the "Greeters". He said it was an honor to shake their hands. It was a huge morale booster for him. Late that night, I received a call from him. He told me all about the "Greeters" and how he came about getting a cell phone to call me. Thank you for giving my husband the chance to talk to me before flying out to Iraq. You guys are doing a wonderful service and I hope you know that to your core. For those of you who have served in the military or are family of military members, thank you for your service.

by Tawnie Carlson from Oak Harbor, WA
November 13, 2009, 12:36 PM

I want to become a troop greeter. Please contact me and let me know if I may become a part of the greeting of our service men. I have a son in irag and this is his second tour of duty. I want to show my respect for these men and women who fight for us..

by Anita J Loring from Oxford, maine
November 15, 2009, 1:39 PM

ex irish guards

just a wonderful documentry.i am an ex service man myself and know what it is like not to have some1 greet you on your return .thses people are wonderful , and they must be supported reguardless,great to see no politics or religion brought into it .my thoughts to all .

by norman dodds from saint john , canada
November 15, 2009, 4:57 PM

Canadian Parents' Thanks

Our son, a captain at Tinker AFB, left for Iraq last year. It was a horrible time for us, as we were in Canada and couldn't see him just before he left. Thank you for being there for us. We were so happy when our son called to tell us of the wonderful people in Bangor who greeted them and then sent them on their way. A lot of people don't realize that there are Canadians on exchange in the USA and are going overseas along with their American brothers and sisters. Bill, when you said that you didn't think you had anything left to contribute, let me tell you and all the rest of Bangor people - you helped to make our world a safer place by going to war for us in your time, and you and the rest of the troop greeters will forever be remembered for your generosity of heart and spirit in sending our son off, with a smile on his face and a warm feeling. We have the pictures of him at the Bangor Airport and we will always cherish them. Some day we hope to travel through Bangor and personally thank you.
You helped put a smile on our face when we most needed it.
Thank you again and God Bless you.

by Mari-Clare Saunders from Durham, Ontario Canada
November 15, 2009, 7:35 PM

Heros have no age limits.

I am filled with admiration and appreciation for the Maine Troop Greeters! Their tireless and selfless comittment to meet and greet ALL the troops is truly AMAZING!. My best friend lives in Machias, ME (2 hours North of Bangor). I have visited her 5 times, landing in Bangor from LAX. Bangor Airport is not very big. They have only two luggage claim stations and I have never seen both on at the same time. It boggles my mind that over 900,000 troops have passed through this airport in a fairly short amount of time. And all have been met by these relentlessly giving, loving people! Their comittment to the troops makes me look at myself...a basically healthy but over weight adult who can't get her big buns into the gym 1 mile down the road while these senior citizen "greeters" (of whom cope with physical pain and various personal health issues) are up and out in a moments notice, at 2AM, 3AM, 4AM... to get to the Bangor airport 1-2 hours away. You're MY heros!

by Terry Bray from Camarillo, CA
November 17, 2009, 7:45 PM

I came in on the middle of this program;by the end I had tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. How wonderful the greeters are and how proud we are of those who serve our country.

by Tere Mc Cue-Fleming from Yorktown Heights, New York
November 18, 2009, 7:25 PM

Thank you from a flight nurse!

I was a Flight Nurse during Desert Shield/Storm. Bangor Maine was our first US stop when the war was over. we were overwhelmed at the welcome we received in the middle of the noc. Bands were playing and people clapping and yelling "welcome home and thank you! I was teary then and I am teary now just remembering them. Thank you for showing the rest of the USA what wonderful citizens we have in Maine - I have never been to Maine but will get there someday, and when I do I will thank everyone I meet and tell them what it meant to be welcomed home by them!

by helene yosko California
November 19, 2009, 12:32 PM

The last time I saw my brother Len was when he boarded the plane to leave for Nam in 1968. What a long lonely walk it was for him to his plane and for us to our car. It is moving to know that there are such beautiful loving Americans that give so much to young men and women who serve our country. All of you, like the Americans in our military give so much and expect so little in return . . . how humbling. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

by Patty Baldwin from Wesley Chapel, FL
November 22, 2009, 6:03 PM

Thanks so much from a mom!

I just watched the wonderful POV show for the second time and still have tears in my eyes. This time my Marine son watched it with me. He was deployed to Iraq last year and spoke so highly of the wonderful send off his unit received from the Maine Troop Greeters. I found a photo of him on their website, taken just before their departure. It meant so much to me to see him smiling and laughing, surrounded by people who really cared. Bill, Jerry, and Joan have really touched our lives. Their dedication and patriotism is outstanding and sets a wonderful example for us all. I was so glad to see that Joan's grandchildren came back safe. It was so good to see that Bill seems to be doing well with his health issues. I just hope that Jerry got a new puppy to keep him company. My daughter, who is the biggest dog lover in the world, was simply heartbroken when he had to have his dog put to sleep. Rest well devoted Flanagan. Again, thanks so much for the love and care you showed my son. He will be going to Afghanistan next year and will look for you all at the airport.

by Jane Kelly from Bossier City, LA
November 26, 2009, 12:42 AM