Gering, Neb. ? Pfc. Jason McKean was injured in a bomb blast in Iraq Sept. 13. Today, he is expected to return to his Gering home.

His friends and family have planned a police escort as he makes his way through town.

Deb Patterson, an Orcom Solutions co-worker of Mark McKean, Jason’s father, said she was hoping the community would show support for the soldier by lining the streets with balloons, banners and flags.

Jason’s parents, Mark McKean and Debra Klug, and his brother and sister left Wednesday to visit him at Fort Bragg, N.C.

There they discovered the military is allowing him to come home for about 30 days to recuperate.

Several employees at Orcom Solutions donated frequent flyer miles and a portion of money raised in a raffle for the family so they could visit Jason.

Michael Gillen, Jason’s cousin, said Jason is unaware of the surprise awaiting him.

“It’s not just for Jason,” Gillen said. “Yes, we’re glad our family member is coming home, but it is to support all troops who have served in any war, conflict and during peacetime. No matter what your stance on military involvement in other countries, I’m sure everyone can agree we should support our family and friends who are serving our country.”