Spc. Joseph Parker McClees spoke to packed house at the Jessamine County Senior Citizens Center March 12 as he expressed gratitude to the seniors for the homemade cards, treats and other items they sent to his unit in Iraq.
Parker, a radio transmissions officer in the 2nd Brigade 1st Infantry Division, said he spoke in behalf of all his friends in Iraq.
"It really touches the heart to have all of you all think about us," he said.
Parker, who also has a brother deployed to Iraq, said he was glad to be home on leave because he got to see his baby niece for the first time.
Parker spoke just before the noon meal.
Afterward, Eileen Latham, activities coordinator for the center, addressed the group.
"If he is an example of what are troops are like, then we have so much to be proud of," she said.
