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KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- A Heartland soldier gets a warm welcome home on Tuesday afternoon at the Kirksville Regional Airport

Specialist Mike Cleary has returned back to the Show Me State after months of duty in Afghanistan.

Cleary is a construction engineer for a vertical construction company with a mission to build up cops, or combat outposts.

"It feels fantastic to get to spend time with my son and family and defend my country at the same time. It's a wonderful feeling. I hope I can do more for the Army. I hope to spend at least 33 years there and then fulfill my dream of being a U.S Army Veteran for the rest of my life," said Cleary.

Cleary also hopes to spend some down time in truck driving school.

Welcome Back Specialist Mike Cleary and Thank You!