Batavia soldier returns home to hero's welcome

A Batavia neighborhood turned out in force Monday afternoon to welcome a young soldier home from war.

Army Sgt. Kevin Schafer, who grew up in the Braeburn North subdivision on Batavia's northwest side, rode in a shiny red Mustang GT convertible escorted by the motorcycle-riding Patriot Guard, Batavia police and a firetruck.

At Lundborg Avenue, Schafer was met by Girl and Boy Scout troops and kids on bicycles for a short parade to his home, past trees and mailboxes adorned with yellow ribbons.

"It's blowing my mind to be back and see all these people here," marveled Schafer. "This is just way too much."

Red, white and blue streamers decorated the inside of his parents' garage, where neighbors laid out a spread of appetizers and desserts. A "welcome home" banner covered the back wall, and there was a large homemade card signed by friends and relatives. "Thank you for fighting for America. Love, Megan Seranko," read one message, in a childish script.

"Kevin's eyes went like this (wide open) when he saw those motorcycles," said his mother, Kathy. The family has lived in Batavia for 16 years. She, too, was amazed at the party the neighbors organized. "I hope he does something like this for other people some day."

Schafer is in the 4th Infantry Division, 3rd Brigade, 1st Battalion, 68th Armored group. He's served a total of 24 months in Iraq, with his most recent stint lasting 15 months.

Schafer, 23, finished his second tour a few weeks ago. He has a month of leave before returning to base in Colorado.

Schafer enlisted in 2005, after a short stint at Waubonsee Community College. His enlistment ends in August.

Looking around at the dozens of neighbors, VFW members, Patriot Guard members and others, Schafer just shook his head. "This should be for all the soldiers," he said.