Airmen return from successful deployment

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Robert Hicks
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  
Approximately 150 Airmen returned from Southwest Asia Jan. 27 and about 200 more returned Jan. 28, after being deployed six months in support of Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom.

Families and friends patiently waited holding signs and banners while others waived and screamed as Airmen deboarded the aircraft.

"This is my husband's fifth deployment, I'm so proud of him and what he has accomplished," said Mary Peterson. "I'm almost in tears now. I've been waiting for this moment for a long time."

Airmen were excited to be back at Dyess and ready to transition to their normal lives.

"The mission and flying were great, but it's nice to come home to see family and have a day-to-day life again with weekends and celebrations," said Capt. Laura Hunstock, 9th Bomb Squadron.

The bulk of the deployment was in support of B-1 Bomber operations, with members coming from the 9th Bomb Squadron, 7th Operations Support Squadron, 7th Maintenance Group and the 7th Medical Group.

"It's a very overwhelming feeling seeing the Airmen come back to their family and friends knowing they did a good job," said Monica Miller. "I'm proud of my husband, the squadron and the base."