Freed US Vet Arrives Home From North Korea

Merrill Newman joins wife, son in San Francisco
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Dec 7, 2013 4:19 PM CST
Freed US Vet Arrives Home From North Korea
Merrill Newman, center, walks beside his wife Lee after arriving at San Francisco International Airport on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013.   (AP Photo/Ben Margot)

A tired but smiling 85-year-old US veteran detained in North Korea for several weeks returned home today to applause from supporters, yellow ribbons tied to pillars outside his home, and the warm embrace of his family. Merrill Newman arrived at the San Francisco airport after turning down a ride with Joe Biden. He emerged into the international terminal smiling, accompanied by his son and holding the hand of his wife amid applause from supporters. "I'm delighted to be home," he said. "It's been a great homecoming. I'm tired, but ready to be with my family." (More Merrill Newman stories.)

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