Stay on top of breaking news stories with the ABC11 News App
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.