Lilly Rockwell, 2, sits on her father's lap at the beginning of the welcome home ceremony inside Vern Riffe Center for the Arts Friday afternoon.

Sgt. Nick Rockwell of Portsmouth was one of approximately 100 National Guard soldier's that came home from Iraq. Countless friends and family members filled the Riffe Center with flags, posters, ribbons, balloons and banners while waiting impatiently for the return of their loved ones.

By Jessica St. James