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Operation Homecoming

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jette Carr
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Before swearing in and signing on the dotted line to become a member of the U.S. Air Force, each individual is informed of the unique challenges of this career. The life of a military member is full of sacrifice - for the men and women in blue, country comes before self.

Airmen, however, aren't the only ones to make sacrifices as their families cope with separation during deployments. When that hardship ends and the Air Commandos return home, it is a joyous occasion for all.

This celebratory atmosphere was prevalent during a redeployment at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., as family members and friends gathered in a hangar to welcome the special operations warriors home, Sept. 5.

For those who have been separated from their loved ones, it is the little things they said they have missed most.

"I am beyond excited just to physically be by my husband's side again," said the wife of 1st Lt. Derek Fox, 16th Special Operations Squadron co-pilot. "I am eager for him to see our new home. I can't wait to cook him homemade meals again and just enjoy being in his company."

After three months of separation, Fox stood excitedly among the crowd waiting to greet the returning Airmen. Though it was late at night, children with sleepy eyes and smiles held homemade signs of, "Welcome home daddy", and women dressed-up in anticipation of seeing their significant other again.

As the plane rolled up and the returning Airmen stepped onto the flightline, their loved ones rushed forward for a reunion. The Air Commandos were welcomed home and thanked for a job well done.

"I hold what Derek does in high regard - him and all the men and women who are willing to go out and serve our country to ensure our safety and freedom," said Fox. "My husband is my hero, without a doubt. I am extremely proud of how dedicated he is to what he does. Knowing his line of work, and with his squadron being special operations, it is so important for them to be out there providing air support."

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