WATERLOO -- The Courier and other local businesses are teaming up with a group of John Deere Waterloo employees for another "Iowa's Bravest" event supporting U.S. troops serving in Iraq and elsewhere.

Iowa's Bravest will hold a Welcome Home Party 5 to 7 p.m. July 1 at United Auto Workers Local 838, 2615 Washington St.

"This is an opportunity to show our appreciation and thanks to the military personnel who were serving in Iraq and surrounding areas and have now returned home to the Cedar Valley area," said Iowa's Bravest steering committee chair Julie Ehlers.

The group began sending support "care packages" of snacks and essential items to troops at the beginning of the Iraq war in March 2003.

"To date we have sent nearly 500 packages overseas and, with the proceeds with this event, hope to continue until all Iowa's Bravest have returned home," Ehlers said.

The party includes a picnic from 5 to 7 p.m., and a 7 p.m. patriotic program emceed by Jamie Philips of radio station KVCM Mix 96, with performances by retired Marine Sgt. Michael McCraney, and Kathie, Julie and Kristin Kuhlman, sisters who were presented with the outstanding support award from the Iowa National Guard Officers Association in recognition of their performances at welcome back ceremonies in several communities around Iowa.

The evening also will include a silent auction, including two tickets for the John Deere Classic golf tournament; a one-year membership to the Cedar Valley Walleye Club; Iowa Hawkeye and Iowa State Cyclone collectibles, John Deere collectibles, and more.

T-shirts will be available to order during the evening as well.

Tickets for the event are available at the door for a suggested $5 donation. Proceeds will go to continue support for Iowa soldiers serving overseas.

Co-sponsors include Tyson Fresh Meats, Blue Bunny, Martin Bros., Pepsi, Logan Hy-Vee, Crossroads Hy-Vee, Tom Hagarty and CVCC, UAW Local 838, Woolverton Printing and Sara Lee Bakery.