Fort Campbell, KY – On Friday 158 more Wings of Destiny Soldiers returned to Fort Campbell. It was a bitter cold morning as the 158 soldiers landed at Campbell Army Airfield, but that didn’t stop family and friends who were excited for their loved ones safe return. Everywhere you looked, one could see yellow roses provided by the Navy Federal Credit Union for family members. This was their way to show support for the troops and provide information bags with information on their services.
As the hanger doors open family and friends began to cheer, wave and shout as the soldiers marched in. After a brief ceremony and pray everyone was release for their fifteen minutes of family time. Friends and family scramble to the the center of the hanger to find their soldier. Lots of hugs and kisses while families reunite after a long Deployment. Although the 15 minutes seems to pass so fast, soldiers must first turn in their equipment before heading home with their family.
Local Photographer Paige Kimball has been a fixture at recent welcome home ceremonies where she has been covering the return of clients and friends loved ones.This flight, was bringing her husband CWO2 John Kimball home from Afghanistan. “It’s my turn” she said. Also waiting were Sheri Kipp with her daughters Haley & Ashley who were eagerly looking forward to their first glimpse of husband and father SFC Bryan Kipp.
There are two more flights scheduled at this time for other Wings of Destiny soldier retuning. The first is set to arrive this evening, and another is set for March 3, 2011.
If you wish to attend a Welcome Home Ceremony, check the flight schedules online, as times are subject to change at any time. When arriving to Fort Campbell, enter via Gate 7; if you don’t have installation stickers on your vehicle, you will be required to get a visitor pass. From there just follow the signs to the ceremony parking. Waiting buses transport the Family members safely to the hanger.
Beautiful images! And thankyou for including me in the story :)