Fort Campbell Homecoming

There’s something truly special about military homecomings, and I was honored to document one such moment recently at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. This particular reunion was extra touching – an 18-month-old boy finally embracing his father after 256 long days apart.

As any military family knows, these homecomings are unpredictable. That’s why my family and I decided to book a hotel room nearby the night before. Little did we know how crucial that decision would be! At 2 AM, my phone rang with news that the plane was arriving at 3 AM. Had we stayed home, we would have missed this precious moment entirely.

In the early morning darkness, the air was electric with anticipation. As the plane touched down and soldiers began to emerge, I witnessed an outpouring of love and relief that’s hard to put into words. Watching this little one run into his father’s arms after so many months apart – it’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do.

Documenting these reunions is more than just taking pictures. It’s about capturing raw emotion, preserving memories, and honoring the sacrifices made by our service members and their families. As I watched families reunite all around me, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for our troops and the loved ones who wait for them.

These homecoming sessions at Fort Campbell always leave me humbled and inspired. They’re a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the bonds that tie us together, even across great distances. The joy on the faces of both the returning soldiers and their waiting families is indescribable, and it’s a privilege to be there to capture it.

To all our service members and their families: thank you. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and it’s my privilege to help preserve these moments of joy when you’re finally reunited. These images will serve as lasting reminders of the love that endures through separation and the sweet relief of coming home.