AMARILLO, TEXAS -- "Today, I can say that our troops in Iraq will definitely be home for the holidays."
That was the announcement President Obama made to the nation on Friday.
After nearly nine years, the War in Iraq is coming to an end and the remaining 40,000 troops still fighting in Iraq are coming home.
Many citizens in Amarillo, and across the country, are rejoicing.
"I'm glad they're coming home, out of harms way", said one Amarillo local John Willimon.
"I think it's good. I mean, I think it's long overdue that they're returning home", said Dallas native, Nathan Schroder.
"I'm glad they are coming home," said Border resident and US Army Veteran Robert Francis. "I know how it is to be in combat for a year or in a war zone for a year and looking forward to getting home to see your family, your loved ones."
For some, this homecoming is a little bitter-sweet.
"They should have never been there in the first place and I'm glad Obama is bring them home," said Amarillo citizen Rodney Hinds. "It should have happened yesterday."
"I'm glad we're getting out of the affairs over there just because I don't think we can ever achieve the goals that we want to over there," added Willimon. "I think we're losing lives for a goal we can't achieve."
For others, it's a job well done on a mission they've supported all along.
"I think they helped them a lot", added Robert's wife, Glenda Francis.
"I think it was necessary myself and I believed in it," Robert said. "But also I believe in having them come home, safe and sound."
But no matter the opinion, it's because of these men and women that we are allowed to have them just the same.
"Thank you for your services, thank you for protecting our rights and our liberties here at home", said Willimon.
Even though they're not home just yet, there seems to be one resounding message that remains the same across the board.
"I would say welcome home and job well done", said Robert.
"It's good to have you back, brother", added another Amarillo local, Matt Dodger.
"Welcome home", said Glenda.
