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Sarah Dallof reporting It's a perfect start to the holiday weekend for 300 airmen and their families. They're back together, hugging, crying and catching up, for the first time since December.
It takes a lot to get hundreds of people up and out of bed before 5 a.m. on a Saturday. Seeing loved ones return safely from Iraq will do it.
As the plane carrying more than 300 airmen from the 421st Fighter Squadron landed, there were cheers, and there was nervous anticipation.
Holly Lathrop's husband was on the plane. "I can't even imagine," she said. "I can't even imagine."
Holly held 4-month-old Lucas. He was about to meet his dad for the first time. "There are going to be tears, definitely going to be tears," Holly said.
Other families were in the same situation: dads meeting children for the first time on the tarmac. Other reunions were just as emotional.
Master Sgt. Jason Byars said, "I don't know how to tell you, don't know how to explain it. It's wonderful."
The squadron provided air support for ground troops in Iraq, flying approximately 1,700 combat missions and earning more than 70 medals. The biggest reward however, was arriving home safe, sound and surrounded by loved ones.
Jennifer and James Dickson were reunited. James said, "I just wanted to get off the plane and see my family. It's the most important thing."
Tech. Sgt. Daniel Bench said, "It's great. I'm glad to be home with my two favorite ladies."
Airmen we spoke with say they plan to spend the next few days relaxing, catching up with friends and family, possibly taking a trip or two.
E-mail: sdallof@ksl.com