Blank, of Ashland, was in Afghanistan for a year, where he drove 154 combat missions as lead vehicle, escorting 40 million dollars worth of equipment and sensitive items. He also operated heavy equipment to rebuild and tear down other bases in Afghanistan.
Blank's trip home was a long one, with as many as 5 layovers, which included stops in Romania, Minnesota, and Fort Hood.
While away, Blank was able to communicate with his family via Skype and an Afghan phone. When asked what was the first thing he did when he came home, he responded with, "went to the Mineshaft in Ashland and had a beer, after saying hellos to my family".
Blank plans on taking it easy, before getting back into construction.
A party is being planned for Blank with family and friends later this month.