Riley Honored in Pennsauken

by Copyright 2002 NBC 10. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. | May 5, 2003
Riley Honored in Pennsauken Pennsauken gave a hero's welcome to freed prisoner of war Sgt. James Riley during a parade Sunday. "It's very overwhelming. I never expected to be here -- not in front of all you people," Riley told an appreciative hometown crowd. "That was the last thing I was thinking about."

Well-wishers of all ages lined Park Avenue in Riley's hometown for a parade, complete with string bands, elected officials, a sea of American flags and some 60 Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders.

"It feels real good to be home," Riley said. "It's amazing. I never expected anything like this, sir."

Mothers said they wanted to hug him and men said they wanted to shake his hand and honor him for his bravery.

The Iraqis held Riley and six of his comrades hostage for 22 days and they were set free on Palm Sunday.

Riley's startled reaction when the fireworks started were one indication of the mental toll he and his fellow soldiers must have undergone.

However, Riley, 31, was quick to explain why he does not consider himself a hero.

"It's part of the job. We do this every day. We got people still in Afghanistan and Iraq, Bosnia and about five other countries at least. We do this all the time, sir," Riley told reporters.

The Army has forbidden Riley from speaking about any of the details of his captivity, even to his parents, because of national security. The military is still investigating the incident.

Riley will be home on leave for three more weeks and then he will report back to the Army to continue his tour of duty.

Article continues below

advertisement
AMedicalSpa_728x90_April2025



Author: Copyright 2002 by NBC 10. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Archives


Best of the Best 2025

Back in Familiar Territory

Exceptional Educators

The Substance of Weight-Loss Medicine

Course Guide

Closing the Deal

A Moment in Time

Strength in Numbers

Best of Home & Garden 2025

Built on Strength

Clutch Competitors

Giving Back

'I'm Enjoying Every Second Of It'

Leaving a Legacy

Creating A Dream Team


More...