A week after members of the “3-2 Stryker Brigade” returned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord following a one-year deployment to Afghanistan, they were welcomed back by Secretary of State Kim Wyman and other public officials during a ceremony Monday at St. Martin’s University.

Wyman, whose husband, John, served in the U.S. Army and was a member of the 2nd Ranger Battalion at Fort Lewis, told the soldiers she understands and appreciates the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families during deployments.

More than 4,000 soldiers belonging to the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the 2nd Infantry Division, also known as the “Arrowhead Brigade,” attended the ceremony at Marcus Pavilion and Worthington Conference Center. Many family members also were on hand.

Lacey Mayor Virgil Clarkson and state Reps. Steve O’Ban and Hans Zeiger also addressed the gathering. Members of the Seattle Seahawks’ SeaGals performed at the event.