DAYTON, Ohio — Hugs, happy tears and plenty of moments of anticipation — for military service members and their families, there is nothing quite like coming home after a deployment.

After months of work in an undisclosed location, 140 Airmen from the 445th Airlift Wing have returned home to Wright-Patterson AFB. 

Throughout the deployment, they helped transport humanitarian aid destined for Gaza, transported cargo and personnel, maintained the aircraft and flew distinguished visitors.

“He’s so close,” said 12-year-old Wyatt Cesarz as he waited to see his Dad, Major Denny Cesarz, step off the plane. 

Wyatt waited with his family and his little sister, 9-year-old Cora.

The plane and flight line were the last things standing in the way, and the kids knew exactly what they wanted to do first. 

“To hug him and to see his mustache,” Cora said with a laugh.

“He missed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s,” his wife Heather Cesarz said. “That was tough, but we’re excited to have him back and celebrate.”

“I really miss him, but I’m glad he did a great thing for our country,” Cora said.

As the plane door opened, a flood of emotion followed. 

“This is what I’ve been waiting for, this moment right here,” Maj. Cesarz said, after hugging and kissing his family. “You can probably see with the tears in my eyes.”

For many, this was their first deployment and first deployment away from their young children.

Within 72 hours, they had to be ready to go. 

“It was rough because she was working, and I was working, and we really didn’t have that much time before we left, but we made it work,” 445th Airlift Wing section supervisor MSgt Keric Johnson said. “All of our guys meshed well. No problems whatsoever. It was really a great experience.”

The days were long, and the work was tough, but there is nothing like being home.

For the Cesarz family, Cora is keeping her promise. 

“I’m just going to hug him,” she said with a smile, as she leaned in for another hug.