Private Lynch arrives home to hero's welcome

FORMER US Army PoW Jessica Lynch returned to her West Virginia home to a hero's welcome yesterday, and in her first words since her rescue said: "It's great to be home".

Lynch, who was brought to the podium in a wheelchair, received a standing ovation as she entered a media tent and made her brief remarks.

The 20-year-old said she did not realise for a long time her ordeal had captured the hearts of millions around the globe.