A joyful day for many families at Fort Stewart, as more than 130 soldiers return home from overseas.
The 549th Military Police Company, 385th MP Battalion, was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
With numerous signs, balloons and American flags, hundreds of eager family members gathered at Cottrell Field to welcome home their heroes.
"Our little bitty arguments, like about him to take out the trash and stuff like that, I miss that the most. The little stuff you never thought you'd miss," said Krystal Tripp, who was waiting for her younger brother Private James Tripp. She held up a sign that read, "Welcome Home Bubba."
It was also a long wait for Laura Slobodiak and her family, as they watched for her husband Stephen.
"I'm going to cry. and they're going to scream. I'm going to definitely cry. I can't wait to see him," she said.
Daughters Autumn and Alyssa couldn't wait for their father's return.
"He's handsome, he's smart, and he's the only boy that I love," declared 7 year-old Alyssa.
"I'm very proud of him. He's our hero. He's done a lot of good," said Stephen's mother, Lisa Powell.
At last, their loved ones came marching into sight and finally the joyful reunion, amid tearful hugs and kisses.
"I almost cried. It was just really, really overwhelming, with everybody yelling, cheering. It's been a long time since I've been home," said Specialist Stephen Slobodiak, after hugging his wife, mother, and children.
He said he's ready to enjoy time with the family and some simple pleasures
"Take them out to dinner. Just take my shoes off and enjoy a carpet," he laughed.
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