Marple Welcomes Home Marine Anthony Procaccio

BROOMALL–After eight months of deployment in Afghanistan, local Marine Cpl. Anthony Procaccio, 23, returned back home, at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, on the 300 block of Lewis Road in Broomall.

Procaccio was escorted by a motorcade of a few motorcycles from the Warriors' Watch Riders–a troop support group that provides motorcycle escorts for soldiers returning home–members of the , , and from the Philadelphia airport all the way to his home on Lewis Road.

Procaccio, an aviation mechanic in the Marine Corps is stationed in New River Air Station, NC, will stay at home for 21 days before "going back to work," he said. In addition to the personal escort, Procaccio was greeted by a crowd of family, friends and neighbors on the cold, winter night.

Maria Hyland, national director of A Hero's Welcome, which helped organize the welcome celebration, greeted Procaccio and stated, "Thank you for everything you do. You're our hero."

It was Procaccio's mom Christine, who had reached out to A Hero's Welcome for the celebration. Hyland said many members of the organization are families of the military families while a handful are just volunteers.

A little overwhelmed by the unexpected surprise, the alum admits it felt "different" to be back but nevertheless said, "It's good to be back."

"This was more than I expected," said Procaccio about the welcome home celebration. "It's kind of a culture shock."

One of the most things he missed while he was away? "Family and friends." Procaccio said he looks forward to embrace being back home surrounded by his family and friends.

"It's great to have him back. I feel relieved," said dad Tony.

Amanda, Procaccio's 19-year-old sister, also agreed with dad. "I don't feel as worried now. I'm glad he's back."

Amanda had already planned to take Procaccio out this past Sunday to watch the Flyers vs. Bruins game in club box seats.

A Hero's Welcome and Warriors' Watch Riders are always looking for more volunteers and members. To get involved, visit their websites at www.aheros-welcome.org and www.warriorswatch.org/.