Black Knights receive warm welcome home
Air Mobility Command News
Release Date: 6/18/2003
By Holly J. Logan Warner Robins Air Logistics Center
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. (AFMCNS) - Nearly 50 Black Knights - members of the 19th Air Refueling Group - returned home Saturday on two KC-135 aircraft as a steady summer rain pounded the flight line where tearful spouses, children and friends eagerly welcomed their heroes home.
Tech. Sgt. Tony Yake, with the 19th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, said seeing his wife and his two daughters running toward him in the pouring rain was a welcomed sight, after spending nearly 96 days in the desert.
"Words can't explain it," he said. "I'm still in shock. I can't remember when I've seen rain like this. It feels so good to be home. I've missed these little hugs."
Expecting to return in September, Black Knights said they were surprised with the news of an early homecoming.
Capt. David Wieland, with the 99th Air Refueling Squadron, said he bridged the distance with girlfriend and his parents through e-mail and phone calls; but nothing could prepare him for the emotions he felt seeing them after being away for nearly four-months.
"As tankers, we had our hand in nearly every fight," he said. "I'm incredibly grateful to be one of four kids to go into combat and come out alive. It's great being home. This is awesome."
Captain Wieland's parents, who traveled from Colorado, said they are proud of their son's service, but thankful he's home.
"As his mom, I always worry about him," said Diane Wieland. "I'm so glad he made it home safely. Now, it's time to spend some time together. I'm sure he has plenty of war stories to share."
Families weren't the only ones to bring bright smiles to the 44 Black Knights' rainy homecoming.
Kacie Hammock and Lauwren Anderson left early from a friend's wedding to give their friend, Senior Airman Jake Calderon, with the 19th AMXS, a hero's welcome.
"I'm so glad God brought him back safely," Ms. Hammock said. "I'm so excited! I can't wait to see him."
Col. Barbara Faulkenberry, 19th Air Refueling Group commander, said she commends the Black Knights for a job well done.
"I join everyone - the Black Knights, the local community, and all the American public - in welcoming these airmen home," she said. "They have served their nation professionally and proudly during this time of war."
Lt. Col. Joseph Rohret, 19th ARG deputy commander, agreed.
"It's so good to see the families out supporting our men and women like this," he said. "We're glad to have our heroes home. Now, it's time to celebrate!"
While many had parties and other festivities planned to mark the happy occasion, Tech. Sgt. Dean Merida and his wife had a simpler evening in mind.
"My wife is making my favorite dinner - fried chicken - and we're going to relax," he said. "Right now, dinner, and a shower that lasts longer than three minutes, is celebration enough for me. I'm just glad to be home again."
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