Fort Campbell, KY – Shortly after a beautify sunrise Wednesday morning, 273 soldiers with the 4th Brigade Combat Team and the 49 EOD arrived back to Campbell Army Airfield.
A huge crowd of friends and family gathered inside the hanger then made their way out to the tarmac to watch the plane as it descended upon the airfield once the 15 minute notice was given.
As soldiers made their way from the plane, many to the opportunity to to shake hand and give a hug to some wounded soldiers as they moved towards the hanger.
Jessica Roche was really excited for her fiancée SGT Jaime ( Jay ) McFall to arrive home from Afghanistan. They are looking forward to a cruise they have planned during block leave.
Once inside Hanger 3, Brigadier General Jeffrey N. Colt welcomed everyone home in a short speech to the soldiers. Afterwards everyone was allowed 15 minutes of family time before heading back to their unit to turn in their gear.
As the soldiers were released for a short reunion, family members scrambled across the hanger floor as they searched for their soldiers. Time passed quickly as the announcement was made for all family members to return to the bleachers and soldiers to make their way back into formation.
If you wish to attend a Welcome Home Ceremony, check the flight schedules online, as times are subject to change at anytime. 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 family members safely to the hanger.