Guardsmen returning from Afghanistan receive hero’s welcome Published April 5, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Elisabeth A. Matulewicz 111th Fighter Wing WILLOW GROVE AIR RESERVE STATION, Pa. -- -- Approx. 200 guardsmen deployed to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan returned home safety to Willow Grove ARS in three waves from Sept. 20-25. No matter day or night they were treated like celebrities with hugs and kisses, large signs crafted by families and friends, and interviewed by a variety of media outlets. A sigh of relief and happiness could be felt across the crowds at the homecoming, a stark contrast to the anxious, reserved farewell just two months prior. While the possibility of future deployments is speculative, this mission was a huge success.