Hometown support for soldier is priceless

On July 29, our daughter returned from deployment as a combat medic in Afghanistan. As part of our homecoming celebration, we placed a large banner in front of our home. Decorated with warm wishes and the symbols of service to neighbor and country, the banner was a testament to one family's pride in its soldier.

After a week of friendly comments from passers-by, jubilant horn honks from drivers and cheers from regular bus riders, it was transformed into something much more. On Aug. 6, we discovered a potted rose bush placed beneath the banner. No card, no way to identify the giver. Simply a beautiful, anonymous gift to an honored veteran.

This gesture remains deeply touching to our family. We offer special gratitude to the giver of the rose. Your gift has become the centerpiece of a new flower bed, one that will be maintained as a permanent reminder of the goodwill we have been privileged to experience, and more important, as a tribute to our daughter's selfless service and her country's priceless support.

Kevin and Janet Keating family

Iowa City