Parishioners from Holy Redeemer Church in Clarksville were among the local residents who turned out at events Nov. 9-10 to welcome home National Guard Specialist Marco Robledo, who lost an arm and leg when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle in Iraq on Memorial Day weekend. The 21-year-old soldier was allowed to visit his home for two weeks before returning to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., to continue his rehabilitation.
Robledo, of the 875th Battalion of Arkansas National Guard., was serving in his second tour of Iraq when the injury occurred. He also lost his friend, Sergeant Erich Smallwood of Trumann, in the blast.
Robledo and his family are active members of Holy Redeemer. Marco Robledo Sr. assists with sixth-grade religious education classes, translating materials for Spanish-speaking students. Other family members include his mother Juanita and brothers, Jose and Alvin.
“Recovery continues to be a challenge but with his courage and determination he is doing well,” Karen Fritchie, director of religious education, said. “He has received two prostheses and is now able to climb stairs slowly. In time, he will run again.”
The homecoming activities included a Veterans Appreciation Day event Nov. 10 at the American Legion Post where pastor Father William Wewers, OSB, gave the opening prayer.
Fritchie said letters can be sent to him at Fisher House 3 Room #19, 6900 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20307.
National Guardsman welcomed home
