After a month back in Vicksburg from Iraq where he and others helped in reconstruction, Maj. Warren Seymour said it’s the simple things he has learned to appreciate – a cup of coffee on the back porch or getting in the car to drive to the store.

On Sunday, Seymour, along with 28 other soldiers with the 412th Engineer Command, suited up in their dress greens, for an official Welcome Home Warrior Citizen Program at the Morris Army Reserve Center.

Karen Seymour said she has been happy having her husband home – especially with Christmas rounding the corner.

&#8220It’s good to be recognized by the community, but it isn’t the reason we do it,” he said. &#8220Deep down inside, it’s nice to know the community supports you.”

For their 13-year-old daughter, Laura, having her dad at home is simply enough.

&#8220I’m glad he’s not hurt or injured,” she said.

To Laura, her father is a hero, one who deserves the public recognition he received Sunday.

&#8220I’m proud of him,” she said. The contingent from the local Reserve unit was on-duty overseas for 15 months.

Soldiers were awarded an encased American flag that sported an engraved inscription thanking them for their service. They also received a warrior citizen flag, a coin and a lapel pin. The soldiers’ spouses or family members also received a lapel pin, along with a rose.

The ceremony is a recognition program for Reservists ordained by Congress and the president.

&#8220It’s to convey in some small way the nation’s gratitude for your service in the global war on terrorism,” said Col. Benny Terrell, who made the opening and closing remarks. &#8220This is a great day to be an American and a great, great day to be a soldier.”

Lt. Col. Cliff Drouet, who has served two deployments to Iraq, said a different kind of reward is in store for him come Dec. 25. The Alabama soldier knows what it’s like to be away from his six children at Christmas time. He has been a civilian soldier for 29 1/2 years and had overseas deployments to Kuwait, Egypt, Korea, Honduras and Panama, to name a few. But, for now, he’s home.

&#8220Being home for the holidays – it’s a reward,” he said.

For Lt. Col. Randy Keyes, having someone to love and hug during the holidays makes all the difference. Although he said the food overseas is good, it doesn’t beat Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner with family.

It was Keyes’ positive attitude while away that kept his family going, said his wife, Sheila.

&#8220He’s just that kind of person – he’s positive,” she said. &#8220His phone calls lifted my spirits.”

Keyes said a positive attitude is what it takes to make it through – and it has to go both ways.

&#8220We didn’t tell him any bad news over the phone. He had enough to worry about,” she said. &#8220I didn’t want to be a distraction.”

Maj. Gen. Robert Williamson, commander of the 412th, also saluted those who had been deployed.

&#8220Without you, we cannot do our job,” he said. &#8220I salute you for your achievement, your sacrifice and your service to our country.”

The contingent deployed October 2005 and returned to Vicksburg September 2006. While in Iraq, the 25 soldiers built bridges and playgrounds.

Another group of 20 soldiers, who were deployed to Germany, was also honored.