Now, the New Richmond High School graduate has returned from his first deployment to Afghanistan and to thank him for his service, Clermont County Commissioners honored him at their July 9 session.
“It feels good,” Lemar said about being recognized. “It feels like people actually appreciate what you do.”
Lemar said he left for his deployment to Afghanistan in November of 2011 and returned to the United States in May.
While he was there, Lemar said he was responsible for constructing a variety of bridges in the country.
“Building bridges is simple,” Lemar said. “They fit together like Lego pieces.”
Lemar said at first, getting used to military life was challenging, but eventually it became routine. He said he was based in Okinawa, Japan before his deployment.
“It’s a little different but pretty fun,” he said about being based in a different country. “It’s a different experience everyone should get to try.”
Lemar said returning home from his deployment was like returning home any time.
“It was the same as always coming home,” he said. “It was good to see family and friends, hangout and get away.”
Lemar’s mother, Gracie Lemar-Miller, attended the ceremony with her son and said she was glad to be able to spend time with him.
“I always love having him come home,” she said.
During the ceremony, Commissioners Bob Proud, Ed Humphrey and David Uible presented Lemar with a certificate of appreciation, Frank Morrow of the Veterans’ Service Commission presented him with a challenge coin and gift certificates from Texas Roadhouse.
“I’d like to say welcome home,” Morrow said. “We’re glad you’re back in one piece, looking good.”
Morrow also encouraged Lemar to stop by the veterans’ service office if he ever needed anything.
Tracy Braden, of The Thank-You Foundation, also welcomed Lemar home, and Barrett Brunsman presented Lemar with a proclamation on behalf of Congresswoman Jean Schmidt.
“It is always a joy when someone is coming home,” Braden said. “I truly believe our brightest and best make a decision to go into the military and don’t have to.”
Lemar said he received a lot of support from people back home while he was in Afghanistan including packages, letters, messages through Facebook and more.
“It all helps,” he said. “You could do it without, but it’s just nice. It is a luxury and very much appreciated by everyone.”
Lemar said he will return to his base in Okinawa, Japan July 13. He said he is not sure yet if he will be deployed a second time.