Operation: Love ReUnited sessions are for deploying, deployed and returning military families. I've done a few for soldiers who were deploying - getting some family portraits so they can have with them while away from home and loved ones. I've also had a few where the soldier is in Iraq and family wanted to send some portraits of their family.
Recently, Sonny and I got to photograph our first homecoming event at Fort Lewis for the 585th Engineer Company. WoW! Talk about an emotionally charged event. Just about every conceivable emotion boiled over at one point or another. Imagine not seeing your father/husband/daughter/wife (or other relationship) in the past 15 months. Not seeing them because they were in a war zone, not on an extended vacation
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The Army had set up a video feed of the plane landing and the troops exiting the plane which just caused excitement to build. The reunion took place in a gym that was divided by a curtain after they took the bus from the air field they had them line up in formation behind the curtain.
Slowly the curtain rose to reveal the men and woman who had been away from home for so long. You could see that while they (the troops) were trying to hold a serious Army face, smiles kept breaking out along with a few sneaking in a quick wave to family members. I actually had the urge several times to go hug each of them and tell them 'Thank-you' - not only to them but, their families.
It was an experience I know I won't forget anytime soon. It also made me realize I am so grateful that I get to have my husband, Sonny home every night.
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