Balloons, hugs and broad smiles were the order of the day Saturday, as thirteen airmen from the 241^st Engineering Installation Squadron returned home after a six-month deployment to Iraq. The airmen, stationed in Chattanooga, flew in to McGhee Tyson Airport in Alcoa to a joyous homecoming celebration with family and friends.

While deployed, the squadron supported a total of 92 projects, providing five bases with surveying, planning, design, engineering and installation expertise.

Acting Commander Lt. Col. Brandon Thompson said, “These Airmen represented the Tennessee National Guard and the 241st Engineering and Installation Squadron with the utmost distinction,” adding, “they were top-notch in what they did. We are very excited to welcome them home.”

Within the coming weeks, three more groups of service members will return to McGhee Tyson.