Community Corner

Home Cookin': Soldier Returns From Iraq and Enjoys Meal With Friends (Video)

Pfc. Marty McHenry, who went to school in New Lenox, had a welcome home part Saturday at Country Charm Restaurant.

Coming back home after four months in Iraq was a little sweeter for one local serviceman as he took a trip to his favorite restaurant, in New Lenox.

Pfc. Marty McHenry, originally from Manhattan, enjoyed breakfast at Country Charm Restaurant on Saturday with friends and members of Operation Welcome You Home. A motorcade from Joliet blared down Route 30, and a brief ceremony was held outside the restaurant, which is one of the things he missed most.

Missed more than that, though, were the people he's been able to see since returning to the U.S. last week.

Find out what's happening in New Lenoxwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Just the contact with all your friends and family," McHenry said about what he missed. "Just being here is what I miss the most."

McHenry, 26, went to St. Jude Catholic School and Lincoln-Way Central in New Lenox. He joined the U.S. Army in August 2009 and has been serving in Iraq since November as convey security, helping protect conveys. Back home until March 11, he was happy to see friends and enjoy a meal at his favorite restaurant.

Find out what's happening in New Lenoxwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Following the ceremony outside, McHenry entere Country Charm to applause from other patrons, and other veterans who were eating there came over to his table to thank him. The bill for the table was on the house, too.

So, what'd McHenry order in his first trip back? The country skillet, with smoked sausage, onions, peppers and cheese.


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