By Alex Fees
Scott Air Force Base (KSDK) - After a six month deployment to Afghanistan, Illinois Air National Guard troops returned home to Scott Air Force Base Monday night.
This is the guard's 126th Air Refueling Wing's Security Forces Squadron, and after waiting for several months for their loved ones to return to American soil, the USO provided family members a place to wait a few more hours for their safe return.
Laura Williams, of Dupo, Illinois, was there to welcome home her son, Senior Airmen Alec Williams. She brought along several family members.
Tech Sergeant Marcus Schaeffer will be welcomed by his sister, and his 3-year-old son, Memphis, among others.
Doug Parisotto, of Springfield, Illinois brought several family members to welcome home his son, Senior Airmen D.J. Parisotto.
Finally, after waiting several months, patient family members would have to wait no more.
The six-month deployment to Afghanistan came to an end about 9 p.m. Monday.
While deployed, these security forces provided security and air base defense force protection operations for multi-national forces. But now, that is behind them, as they fall into the arms of loved ones who have been praying for their safe return.
That is only the beginning of their celebration.
Several families have special parties planned for their loved one in a more private setting.
No doubt there will be more than a few late Christmas celebrations, as well.
KSDK