Lake Havasu City’s Patriot Guard Riders. American Legion Riders, and the Red Iron Brotherhood  welcomed 16 U.S. Marines home Saturday morning.

The family of Marine Corporal Alex Castro requested the Riders’ presence to honor him for his service. Castro was joined by 14 more Marines returning to Lake Havasu City from Japan.  The Marines were honored at the American Legion with a special ceremony.

Other Marines honored Saturday were Cpl. Jacob Lary, Lance Cpl. Jessie Peek, Cpl. Shawn Thompson, Cpl., Tylor Stevens, Cpl. Barbara Long, Sgt. Bailey Craig, Lance Cpl. Shaylynn Hoch, Cpl. Tina Bird (Cool), Lance Cpl. Xavier King, Sgt. Danny Doughtery, Lance Cpl. Samuel Cool, Cpl. Steven Valencis, 1st Sgt. (Army) and Staff Sgt. (Marines) Michael Phillips, Cpl. Tyler Fredrick, and Cpl. Jason Raether.

Mayor Mark Nexsen and city council members  also attended the ceremony to welcome them home.

People join hands in a circle for the signing of “God Bless The USA.” Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Members of the Red Iron Brotherhood face the flag for the National Anthem. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

The Marines receive hugs at the Welcome Home Ceremony Saturday morning. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Frank Emery welcomes home the Marines at the American Legion Saturday. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene