ASV karavīra 2 dzīves gadi23

March 7, 2009. 8:57 p.m. Ian flirts with Devin Ervin of Highlands Ranch as they wait to go to a party. He invited her along for the evening, and they end up holding hands and playfully wrestling.

March 8, 2009. 10:33 p.m. The friends join in a circle, swaying to the music as “My Girl plays.

March 23, 2009. 5:45 a.m. Ian flashes a peace sign to “Buddha as he heads down the escalator to the concourse tram at DIA. “I’m at a loss, “Buddha says. “I can tell it’s going to hit me later today.

Aug. 21, 2009. 11:11 p.m. It’s been five months since Ian went back to Iraq, and now family and friends gather in a gymnasium at Fort Carson to welcome troops from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team back home from their tour.

Aug. 21, 2009. 9:03 p.m. Ian and 343 other troops deplane at the Colorado Springs airport, where they were greeted by Maj. Gen. David Perkins, commander of the 4th Infantry Division.

Aug. 21, 2009. 11:10 p.m. As the troops enter the gymnasium to a patriotic fanfare of music and cheers, emotions overcome Teri Mercill.

Aug. 21, 2009. 11:19 p.m. When the soldiers are released, Ian races straight for an embrace with Devin, then shares hugs with his dad, mom and brother.

Aug. 24, 2009. 7:29 a.m. Ian’s squad leader put him in for an Army Commendation Medal to recognize Ian’s efforts in Iraq, primarily his duties with the Quick Reaction Force