Five months after deployment to the Middle East, Wally Breiner was happy to see familiar faces on Sunday morning.

The Nesquehoning resident was the guest of honor at a "Welcome Home" celebration hosted by members of his church, St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church.

Breiner, a 1995 Panther Valley High School graduate, returned home early Friday morning.

It was the second deployment for Breiner, a 13-year member of the Pennsylvania National Guard, 211th Engineering Installation Squadron.

While he can't speak about his duties overseas or where specifically he was stationed, Breiner, a technical sergeant, said it is awesome to come home to such a supportive community.

"It was great, even when I was over there, to get the care packages and cards," he said. "The church has been very supportive of myself and my family. My son's school, Our Lady of the Angels Academy, has also been very supportive."

His wife Amanda, daughter Jovie, and son Brody joined him Sunday as well as numerous members of the church.

"We're so proud of him," said Nancy Kerestus, who helped organize the celebration. "He and his family are very important to us here at the church. They are a part of our family and we're thankful for his safe return."

For more, read an upcoming print edition of the Times News.