DENVER -- A Colorado Marine who suffered multiple gunshot wounds in Iraq and nearly died from complications is back home with his family.

Lance Cpl. John J.T. Doody arrived to a hero's welcome at Denver International Airport Wednesday night.

"We see J.T. as our miracle," said Lacey Brady, the Marine's cousin. "He's making us all stronger. We thank him for his service and we're grateful to have him in our lives."

Doody was shot in Fallujah just two days after his birthday in March 2007.

"A sniper got him," said Doody's aunt, Sheryl Johnke. "But he was recovering, and then he got an infection. He got endocarditis and that caused the stroke."

The stroke left the young Marine paralyzed.

"We're so overwhelmed by what happened to him, but we're so very proud of him," said Patty Jensen, another aunt.

Doody's mom had asked for well wishers to turn out at the airport, but she was stunned by the size of the crowd.

"This is awesome," said his mother, Chris Ott. "I can't believe how many people are here."

An estimated 200 people showed up inside the terminal, waving flags, balloons and welcome home signs.

Dozens more lined up on motorcycles along E-470 to help escort the Marine to Brighton.

"This young man gave a lot to his country. He deserves it," said Steve Marsh, state captain of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Wayne Herbert of the American Legion Riders said it was important for him to be at the airport.

"My brother came home from Vietnam twice to a less than warm welcome. I will never allow another soldier to come home in disgrace like he was," Herbert said.

Doody is a Marine, but there were veterans of the Army, Navy and Air Force on hand for his welcome home ceremony.

"It doesn't matter what branch they're in," said Laurie Kuntz, of the American Legion Auxiliary. "They're all family. It's like your own kid coming home."

While he's home, Doody will attend a wedding. One of his cousins is getting married.

"It's good to be back," Doody said.

When asked how he felt, Doody replied, "Like a million bucks."