This is just one of many reunion stories that will have appeared in our local newspaper between now and next February.
http://www.theforthoodherald.com/news/story.aspx?s=20557But none of the stories that run seem to capture how breathtaking this particular unit's reunion ceremonies are.
The bleachers which the families are gathered at are centered along one side of a long narrow parade field. The buses carrying the returning soldiers pulls up center on the opposite side of the parade field.
After about what seems like an hour, the buses pull away, revealing all of the soldiers, who are now standing in formation. At that very first moment when you can glimpse those soldiers, it's the most beautiful thing you've ever seen. They march forward onto the parade field, flanked by their Horse Detachment, and led by the Honor Guard. They stop just short of hugging distance from the bleachers where their families are waiting.
After a brief welcome speech by the Commander (or Rear D Commander), the soldiers are released to reunite with their families.
It doesn't matter how many of these return ceremonies that you attend, that first glimpse never lose that magic.
