Members return from deployment, reunite with families

  • Published
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  Early in the morning, dozens of family members eagerly awaited the return of their loved ones at the Sam Johnson Fitness Center May 9. Over 200 personnel from the 482nd Fighter Wing and the 301st Fighter Wing arrived here after completing a joint, eight month deployment to Afghanistan.

During their deployment, Airmen worked to maintain and equip F-16C jets to provide intelligence, and close air support for the International Security Assistance Force and other NATO forces. The deployment was a coordinated effort between Homestead's 482nd FW and the 301st FW from Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, Texas.

"I'm so happy to be home, and I can't wait to surprise the mother's on Mother's Day, they both live in Broward," said Staff Sgt. Oniel Hernandez, a weapons loader assigned to Detachment 93, 495th Fighter Group at Homestead Air Reserve Base.

Milly Hernandez, wife of Staff Sgt. Hernandez said, "It was torture waiting for him!"

While at the fitness center, military members received multiple briefings required for returning deployers. In addition to supporting personnel, wing leadership was there to welcome them back and to congratulate them on a job well done.

"I'm proud of what our Airmen accomplished in support of wartime operations in Afghanistan," said Col. Chris Funk, 482nd FW commander. "This is what we train for, this is our mission. Despite challenges and being separated from families, they provided unparalleled air support to keep troops on the ground safe."

Prior to returning, families and friends of the deployed Airmen decorated the newly-renovated fitness center with welcome posters and patriotic streamers. Additionally, refreshments were made available to returning Airmen and their families.

After their in-processing was completed, members quickly departed with their families to start their much deserved time-off. The wing is preparing to officially welcome returning deployers during a July Airmen Appreciation Day.