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Jed Boal ReportingA Sandy neighborhood tonight celebrated the safe return of a soldier stationed in one of the most dangerous regions of Iraq.
Many Utah parents have sent their children off to the war in Iraq and worried to death every day they were gone. These parents wanted to thank their neighbors for enduring support.
Specialist Chase Bailey is 21 years old, already an Iraq War Veteran, celebrating the homecoming of his life.
Spc. Chase Bailey/502nd Infantry, 101st Airborne Div.: "We were infantry, go out and find the bad guys and take care of them."
As his mother put it, he's been to hell and back, and survived without a scratch.
"It was beyond terrifying."
She scoured the Internet for any information on her son's unit.
Colleen Bailey/Soldier's Mother: "It's been very tough. But, it's brought us a lot closer."
Bruce Bailey/Soldier's Father: "Terrible things were happening over there. His first day out he was blown up in his Humvee, and many days thereafter. It was nerve-wracking the whole time."
As a soldier with the 502nd Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, Bailey and his unit patrolled an area southwest of Baghdad-- an insurgent stronghold.
Bruce Bailey/Soldier's Father: "It's called the triangle of death, and for good reason. They couldn't go down any road without hitting a bomb."
Mortars, machine gun fire.. many moments filled with fear.
Spc. Chase Bailey/502nd Infantry, 101st Airborne Div.: "It can be, but the best thing to do is just think about your men, get the job done, make it all a safer place and better for everybody."
The Bailey's now are relieved.
Bruce Bailey/Soldier's Father: "This is not so much a welcome home party as it is to thank everybody who prayed for my kid."
And also anticipated this day.
Spc. Chase Bailey/502nd Infantry, 101st Airborne Div.: "Overwhelming. I had flags in my front yard, all down the street with yellow ribbons. Heartwarming and touching."
Specialist Bailey goes back to Fort Campbell, Kentucky in two weeks. He'll be done with his commitment in nine months, and plans to come home and go to college.
