34th Combat Communications Squadron returns

By Alex Cameron, NEWS 9

Most members of the 34th Combat Communications Squadron have returned home from Iraq.

Thirteen of them came home Sunday, 28 more came home Monday. It was a happy and emotional reunion for members of the 34th and their families.

The members of the 34th have been at an air base in Iraq, providing computer network support and they'll be headed back, probably in about a year's time.

The Squadron is part of Tinker Air Force Base's famous 3rd Herd.

For the past four months families like the Paynes have been split apart.

"That minute when you see him come off the plane and you're all excited, it makes up for all the nights you were alone," said Nicole Payne.

The Payne's son Jacob, 4, didn't have Dad around to play with. 

"I was so happy he was back," Jacob said.

The Paynes said this deployment was about the 7th they've been through since getting married. They said it doesn't ever get easy to be apart.

Officials with the 34th said there are still about 15 members with the squadron not home, but they will be coming home soon.