Makovec home from Iraq
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
The long-awaited day finally came Sunday when Simon Makovec of Ramona returned home to stay after serving 20 months in Iraq.
Makovec was among the 86 members of the Kansas National Guard Bravo B Battery, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery Unit which arrived by bus and were honored at an afternoon ceremony at Pratt.
At least 40 members of Simon's extended family were on hand to greet the returning soldiers, including Simon's parents, Gail and Marissa Makovec, two sisters, Shaina and Sheila, and his girlfriend, Dana Beltz.
According to the Makovecs, the event was "pretty emotional" as fellow Guardsmen paid tribute to Sgt. David Berry of Anthony, the only member of the unit who did not return. He was killed in February in a roadside attack. His widow was present for the ceremony.
Pete Richert of Hillsboro, who lost a leg in the attack and had returned home earlier, was on hand to greet his fellow soldiers. He was presented with the Purple Heart along with another soldier, Michael Miller.
Makovec was slightly injured in the attack and received his Purple Heart in Iraq.
Altogether, 27 members received Purple Hearts, making the Kansas National Guard unit the most decorated per capita since World War II.
Also among those returning were Zachary and Jake Linn of Newton, grandsons of Larry and Barbara Smith, operators of Country Lakes Café.
"We're absolutely ecstatic and relieved to have them home," Barbara said. "There wasn't a day that went by when we didn't pray for their safe return."
Prior to the unit's arrival in Pratt, the Makovecs were interviewed by television reporters from KAKE, Channel 10, Wichita. The interview was part of a report that aired on the evening news.
The family is thankful to have Simon back home and plan to spend a few weeks visiting and enjoying being together again.
