By Danielle Rexrode
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Suzanne Levitt knows that actions speak louder than words. While some people might slap a "Support our Troops" bumper sticker on their car, Levitt and more than two dozen men and women from Charlestown—including many veterans—greet those returning home from war each month at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport.

"To see the looks on the soldiers’ faces when they walk through that door—it’s amazing," says Levitt. "This [is] a patriotic event, not a political one. Whether you agree with the war or not, these troops are there because they have to be. I feel it’s important to support their sacrifices and show our appreciation."

The welcome wagon
The welcome home events are organized by Maryland’s Operation Welcome Home, a group of volunteers that came together through church and community groups. Since March 2007, Maryland’s Operation Welcome Home has welcomed more than 55 flights and 13,000 troops. Levitt organized Charlestown volunteers in September 2007 after she heard about the organization from her son-in-law.

"The first time, I went just with my family," says Levitt. "I was so moved by the whole thing. Because there are veterans and people living here who have family members serving in the Middle East, I thought it would be meaningful for Charlestown to be involved."

Now, once a month, Levitt and a busload of Charlestown residents line up alongside fellow volunteers, veterans, and family members with patriotic signs, balloons, and goodie bags to welcome 200 or more soldiers, airmen, sailors, and marines.

Charlestown volunteers have received support from the community’s dining services department, which donates prepackaged snacks to be included in care packages for the troops. "Most of the soldiers aren’t from Maryland. They are making connections to other cities," says Levitt. "So while they’re waiting for their flight, it’s nice for them to have stuff to snack on."