Arrival of 128 Soldiers marked the last large group of 3rd Brigade Combat Team to return home

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Fort Campbell, KY – On Thursday February 17th 2011, The last large group of Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team returned home. The final flight marking the completion of the return of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team occurred the following day. It’s been a long hard run during the 3rd Brigades return to Fort Campbell, KY from Afghanistan. The unit had a rough year which made their homecoming especially bitter sweet. Some of those who deployed with the brigade returned home with life changing injuries, while others lost their lives in the service of their country. With the return of the brigade now complete, this is the proper time to remember them and their families in your thoughts and prayers. Now Back to the flight on Thursday.

Family and friends of the returning soldiers had gathered together to give their loved ones a proper welcome home.

The last large flight carrying the soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team home.

15 minutes before the flight arrived the family members were allowed to proceed outdoors to wait on for a chance to see the flight bearing their loved ones arrive.

At 12:47pm the plane touched down to a chorus of cheers.The soldiers rapidly disembarked from the aircraft and proceeded to march to a assembly point near the hangers to drop off their gear so they could visit with their families. As they approached the waiting families soldiers eyes sought out those special people who were there waiting on them. As they saw them smiles broke out on their faces, their family members eyes shining brightly. Many of the soldiers waved.

As soon as they were all assembled, the doors to the hanger were opened and the 128 soldiers marched in before the cheering crowd.

An invocation was given by Chaplin Dewey Smith, followed by comments from Commanding Deputy Commander Maj. Gen. Frank Wiercinski. He welcomed the returning soldiers home, “You know I saw a sign outside, right over here with all the families, the sign said “Your’re Late,” so we are not gonna make this any later than we have to. It’s great to see you all. You know you are getting somewhere when you are shaking hands of friends who were in combat with you nine or ten years ago. It’s good to see you all home.” The 101st Airborne Division Band played the Army song and the 101st Song, with many of the soldiers singing along. After the short ceremony it was time for some quality family time.

This was the first time many of these soldiers had seen their loved ones since early 2010, and it showed. How families reacted to their reunion differed wildly. Some kissed, while others stood in the middle of the tumult lost in each others company. There were tears of joy and pain. Some posed for pictures. For the family men it was the beginning of the process of sharing the stories gathered during the lost year of their lives.

When the 15 minutes was over the soldiers were formed back up. It was time for the soldiers to march out to the buses, as the families were given a last minute briefing on potential issues that may arise and how to best to handle them.

If you are interested in attending a Welcome Home Ceremony. Flights are scheduled for through Friday. Plan to arrive at least 2 hours early. Enter at Gate 7, and follow the signs. Hope to see you there!