Fort Bragg paratroopers return from Afghanistan

FORT BRAGG, NC (WTVD) -- For the first time in months, family members of hundreds of Fort Bragg soldiers are together at home. More than 250 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division were welcomed home at Pope Army Airfield.

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As the families waited and watched on post Monday afternoon, anticipation continued to build.

"I've been here since 12:30 p.m., and I'm getting a little impatient now," said one woman, who was waiting for her husband.

Many of the friends and family members carried signs. Others were wearing their warm welcome, like 6-month-old Liam.

"Luckily, he didn't start walking or crawling yet, but he's been smiling. He has a big personality. That's probably the most I wish he got to see," said Justine Boback, who is the wife of one paratrooper.

"I grabbed him and really pulled him over. His friends said I manhandled him. It felt good. I enjoyed it," said Alena Knauss, the wife of one soldier.