Citizens of Palmerton and the surrounding area came out in force to honor one of their hometown heroes returning from the Middle East. Pfc. Keith Simmons, 19, returned to hoots and hollers as he rode down Delaware Avenue in Palmerton Fire Company's snorkel truck, waving to a crowd that lined the street. Described as the largest turnout yet for a returning Desert Storm veteran, the celebration began shortly after 9 p.m. with a grand parade and concluded shortly after 11 p.m. with a party at the Palmerton Fire Company.