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Troops return from the desert away from home Tears shed as Marines return from Afghanistan

Marine Corps News

Release Date: 10/29/2002

Story by Lance Cpl. John F. Silwanus

KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa, Japan -- A detachment of 60 Marines and Sailors of Marine Air Control Squadron-4, Marine Air Control Group-18, returned to Okinawa Monday after spending six months in Khandahar, Afghanistan.

Upon arriving, the servicemembers were welcomed home by friends, family and fellow servicemembers.

"The Marines and Sailors did a great job completing their mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom," said Maj. Chad M. Breeden, executive officer, MACS-4. "We are happy they came back safe, and we look forward to their return."

As the servicemembers unloaded their gear, it was difficult for some family members to hold back their tears. The return was very emotional for those in attendance who waited with signs in hand to see their loved ones again.

"It's been a long six months. I couldn't wait to see how everyone looked when they got back," said Cpl. Kelly Wolf, radio operator, Tactical Air Operations Center.

Though family members did not greet some Marines, they were treated to some simple luxuries.

"This is the first donut I have had since I left, and it tastes great," said one Marine who wasted no time in getting to the refreshments provided. "There wasn't anything over there like this."

The Marines' role during their time in Afghanistan was to control the airspace in and around Afghanistan. Radar technicians and radio operators surveyed the skies, ensuring the safety of all aircraft within their area of operation.

"The Marines' main mission was conducting air space control in Afghanistan. While in Guam, they primarily ensured planes could travel from point A to B safely," said Breeden, a Sheffield Lake, Ohio native. "They executed to the best of their ability, and it showed."

While deployed, the Marines were able to keep their systems up and running. According to Breeden, none of their equipment was down for very long. The Marines standing by to take care of the problems included radar technicians and engine and generator mechanics.

"We just did what we were trained to do, except that it was in a different environment," said Cpl. Joshua Allen, radar repairman, TAOC. "It was a great opportunity for us to go and do our part."

MACS-4 will have Marines continually serving in Afghanistan until April 2003. Since the September 11 terrorist attacks, the squadron was called upon to serve in Guam during Operation Noble Eagle, and later in Khandahar. Some Marines traveled straight from Guam to Afghanistan in support of both operations.

"We are happy we could contribute to Operation Enduring Freedom," Breeden said. "I know the Marines' contribution in Afghanistan has been a significant one."