U. S. Rep. Dave Loebsack, a Democrat representing Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District, returned home Friday after sharing Thanksgiving Day dinner with service men and women in Afghanistan.

“I have visited the troops in Afghanistan twice before, and on this trip had the special opportunity to give thanks and celebrate our country’s values as embodied in the Thanksgiving holiday with our troops,” Loebsack said in a prepared statement upon his return. “It was inspiring to be a part of this celebration, and I felt honored to have the opportunity to personally thank the brave and selfless men and women serving in our armed services for their service and sacrifice during this holiday season.”

Loebsack hand delivered letters from Iowa school children, as well as pre-paid telephone cards provided by the United Service Organizations (USO). He also met with military and civilian leaders on the ground to receive an update on operations and readiness needs.

Other members of Congress to make the trip were House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) and U.S. Reps. Solomon Ortiz (D-TX), Rick Larsen (D-WA), Tim Murphy (R-PA) and Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam).