They weathered a tour in Afghanistan, but returned to family and friends Friday at Rosecrans.

The deployment ceremonies and welcome home parties are becoming old hat for soldiers serving in the Missouri Air Guard.

Family and friends again waited for their loved ones to land - a routine many have grown accustomed to. The departures and arrivals are becoming old hat for some of these air guard men, women and their families. The parades, cheers, hugs and handshakes are now a part of life.

"You kind of get used to it when they're in and out all the time," said Jessice Pierce, a soldier's wife.

Sgt. Polley Terry headed up security forces during this most recent trip to Afghanistan. This was his third deployment since 9-11. His crew helped secure the area for other servicemen and women who are teaching the natives how to grow viable crops.

"They're in 18th century over there, but they have cell phones and cars. But, they still live in mud huts," said Sgt. Terry.

Sgt. Terry and crew spent close to a year during this tour overseas. Now, they're home, ready to catch up and reconnect with the ones they love.

The unit returned to rosecrans shortly after noon Friday. They hurried the debriefing since the guardmembers were gone so long, so they could get back to their families as soon as possible.