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CAMP WILLIAMS -- Emotions ran high at Camp Williams Saturday afternoon as close to a hundred Marines returned home from Afghanistan.
But for many the homecoming was bittersweet -- two of their own didn't make it back.
Marines from the Charlie Company's 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion arrived to plenty of cheering, clapping, and hugging. Though many Memorial Day celebrations will take place this weekend, this one might just top them all.
"I didn't sleep at all last night," said Angie Reynolds, whose husband Dave returned with the group. Their family reunion was extra special.
"We're excited this little guy is meeting his daddy for the very first time," Reynolds said. "So yeah, we're very anxious and very excited."
Most families were anxious, because it's been a long seven months.
As word spread the Marines were getting closer, no one could deny the excitement. "I'm starting to tear up myself," Reynolds said.
When the buses finally arrived and Marines started getting off of them, the joy was overwhelming. Kids were reunited with their dads, wives and girlfriends finally held their husbands and boyfriends and parents saw their children for the first time in a long time.
For Matthew and Courtney Romney, this homecoming came just in time. She's a week late, pregnant with their first child.
"We were nervous all night last night, but it's working out just right for us now," said Cpl. Romney.
But for all the happiness, there was some sadness.
Only photos of 19-year-old Lance Cpl. Carlos Aragon and 21-year-old Lance Cpl. Nigel Olsen were present at the homecoming. Both were killed in Helmand Province, Afghanistan in the same week in March.
"We wish Carlos and Nigel would be getting off the bus with them, but we know they're here in spirit," said Kim Olsen, Nigel's mother.
She said she had to be there to welcome her son's friends home.
"These boys are our boys now. They're my sons, and so if I can't hug my son, I'm going to hug them," Olsen said.
It's a reminder of what Memorial Day is truly about.
"It's important to remember, even if you don't know the details, to remember the sacrifices of people like that," said Sgt. Dave Reynolds.
Capt. Lamar Breshears agreed. "It's not just another shopping day. It's definitely something to remember," he said.
Aragon and Olsen were both graduates of Mountain View High School. Aragon was killed March 1, while Olsen was killed March 4.
Fundraisers are being planned to raise money for a scholarship in Olsen's and Aragon's names.
There's a Memorial Day barbecue planned at the Orem City Park Monday at 11:00 a.m. to honor the two.
E-mail: acabrero@ksl.com
