MINOT, ND (KXNET) — A local National Guard soldier received a legendary homecoming today. Skylar Smith, a Three Affiliated Tribes member, arrived back home after a yearlong deployment defending our Southern Border. A cultural welcome home ceremony burst through the Minot International Airport, not just for a soldier who had served, but also a warrior of his tribe. "I have no words to explain that. It's just very heartwarming, a good welcome home," said Skylar. All were on hand to celebrate his return home, including drummers, singers, veterans, elders, those from the women's auxiliary group from New Town, and a lot of his immediate family. It all started with one person. Winter activities you can do if you are stuck at home "We decided to put this on just to honor him and welcome him home, kind of throw our native American culture in there and just let him know that it's a bigger deal than he thinks it is," said Shelly Smith, Skylar's sister. "It was just reaching out to family where we are from, back home, our Native Americans are really good with showing up and supporting so the word got out pretty fast." Lots of people went to the airport to celebrate his return. Even those who didn't know him, showed their support. "And I think just having him close and just being able for him to pop up whenever he feels like it," said Shelly Smith. Skylar says he is looking forward to sleeping in his own bed and eating some good food. He also says he likes the snow, as well as the cold. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW