Gibbons Returns From Afghanistan, Receives Warm Welcome

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Ed Gibbons Jr. has returned from Afghanistan. He left behind the fruits of his labors.

Gibbons helped construct a school in the country using school supplies he received, in part, from Chatham residents.

Over 500 pounds of school supplies were shipped there. 

A variety of volunteers—such as the Cub Scouts and the Chatham Newcomers and Neighbors Club—responded, and Tom and Patty Fox, who live in the borough, helped coordinate the collection effort, asking people to drop off the supplies at their home.

Earlier this year, Gibbons wrote from Afghanistan:

"The Taliban for years have suppressed these people. We have 12 schools in our area of operations and we have opened one. It has 150 students that show up every day and three teachers.

"In the attached pictures all of the students are holding Chatham, N.J. school supplies. Without the school supplies you sent it would not have been possible for the school opening. We appreciate your support again."

Gibbons returned to Fort Lewis, Wash. earlier this month, where a homecoming ceremony was in store for returning soldiers. He was greeted by his wife, Brittany, at the ceremony.

Photos are at right.