“All gave some. Some gave all.” I’m a veteran and lost a couple of guys in Iraq. And sometimes those who come home, don’t fully come home. Thank you for your respect.
Thank you so much for your service and the life you sacraficed to ensure the safety and freedoms of not only America but also across the world. Your love of country is what makes this world a better place. God bless you and your family!
The saddest part is when one's own country turns on them. I remember coming back from Iraq, and there was a Vietnam veteran there amongst the crowd. He was happy and emotional, but asked, "Why couldn't they treat us like this when we came home." That was such a true statement. People don't choose to go to war, their country sends them. We should always support our troops returning home.
I cried my heart out all day when that last plane left Iraq knowing our soilders were left behind along with our allies that were going to face certain death . I'm not a crier but that day I couldn't pull it together. My heart absolute breaks for all the soilders who sacrificed so much & all the families of fallen soilders bc it literally feels like it was all for nothing.
I agree. Luckily it has changed since Vietnam. The saddest part that is still true today is a vet coming home and not be able find a job. housing, excellent health care. That is still a disgusting truth today.
I saw it happened so many times. We were hated, there's a few things in life that tears your heart apart more than be hated by your own people. USAF RETIRED.
It was terrible how our brave men and women were treated when they came home from Vietnam. Then it was a war with a draft, those young men had no choice. I grew up in that era and have vivid memories of the news each night starting with the death and injured count. It was horrible. I have always felt badly for how our country mistreated the vets. I always say thank you to our vets and have for years, before it became the thing to do after 9/11.
My dad was a Vietnam vet. I am glad that this country has learned to respect its service members since, but wish Dad didn't have to endure the hell he was given when he got back after seeing people he served with die.
The US has so many foreign military bases that need manned that we have thousands overseas. Even if it’s not combat they’re still deeply missed and respected.
And it doesn’t even have to be “overseas” My dad was in the Navy 20 years, and except for a very short time working in a recruiting station in the largest city in his home state he was 1,000 miles away at the very least from his parents. He would take 3 weeks leave in the summer to drive home and visit with family (I should say we to include our mother my brother and I) but that still mean 11 month out of 12 with very little contact and even then, that leaves you with exactly one week of leave to do anything with your immediate family so for us our summers were bookended with camping trips on memorial and Labor Day weekends and the odd weekend day trips (because he had overnight duty one day in six it’s was difficult to do something over Saturday night) Anyway it always ate at my father that his dad died in a car accident a bare 4 months before he (my father) was set to retire and planned to return home while planning his civilian career
Ashley is correct. Even the US Dept of Defense doesn't really know how many installations they have world wide. The best guess is at least 800 installations. Yes there is even one in New Zealand. The US Military is EVERYWHERE ua-cam.com/video/-YR2TxHkb4c/v-deo.html
@@douglascampbell9809 true the problem comes with what do you call an “installation “ is a multi force recruiting station next to a laundry mat in a strip mall that is “commanded” by either a butter bar fresh out of the academy, or in his absence the NCO that has one week seniority over his peer (Multi force meaning a navy chief shares space with the army and air force Sgts and handles recruiting for Marines and Coast guard out of courtesy, while they “share” a couple of enlisted personnel who are waiting to go to recruiters school or in some other way are in some sort of transition.
As an American, I envy you... it's kinda of nice to hear that you can't relate to the US homecoming. I hope it stays that way for you and your country!
Love these videos but have some mixed feelings. I grew up around the army and my father spent two tours in Vietnam. Of course unceremonious pickups at the airport upon his return each time. God bless all military families.
Please do not be embarrassed to cry,....You should cry...These are the kinds of things that keep your heart full of compassion. That is one thing Americans are not embarrassed to do, is cry. I remember seeing my daughter (Marine Corps) walking across the airport to her dad and I and all I could do was stop, set down and cry. After 2 years, I couldn't handle it. it almost feels like they have died (being gone so long), then there they are in front of you.
As an American I was crying too! Our men and women soldiers and their families have sacrificed so much all down through our country. I have so much love and respect for them all!
As a dad with a son who has cerebral palsy that has difficulty walking. That shot of the dad seeing his son walking really hits. These videos in general will get you misty eyed.
@@dortheyc5276 Doesn't matter how many times I've watched these. I ugly cry, every time. More so now, considering you baby brother has committed to joining the Marine Corps once he graduates high school. He's got his Senior year left and I am SO proud of him!
@@meganlynn83 God bless and keep him! It's my belief that the families of our soldiers serve as well, just in a different capacity. Every day they pray for and worry about them. They fear the ringing of the phone or doorbell. When the soldier is a husband and father, the wife takes on the roll of both mother and father. You all serve! I pray for our military and first responders every day. Those people who hate our country and our flag are not the majority of this great nation. God bless and stay safe. :)
@@dortheyc5276 Thank you so much for your kind words! My baby brother was adopted at birth by my parents and is the greatest blessing! I am a VERY proud sister! I am 34 years old and my son turns 12 on Tuesday and has ALWAYS been obsessed with the military. Specifically the Marine Corps. If my son chooses to join when he is older, I will be terrified that my only child would go into the military, however I will support him and his dreams! My Great Grandfather fought in WWII with the Army. He told me so many interesting stories before he passed. Thank you for your prayers and God bless you and your family as well! 💙
As a former USMC wife, I’m crying just reading the comments even before I’ve watched the video! What a great group of followers on this channel! Thanks for bringing all these folks together. ❤️
Monica Mathers thank you for Your sacrifice. I know it was not easy being away from your spouse for long periods of time and what it must have been like for your kids. Without people like you alot of our service men and women wouldn't have the support they need. So thank you.
Thank you for YOUR service. I know your parents were enlisted, but the whole family "serves" and I appreciate what sacrifice that is for the entire family.
Oh I know the feeling. My dad is a retired Air Force vet and I didn't see him a lot due to his work in Security. My mom didn't even know where he was half of the time and I didn't know what he did until I was a teen after he was out of the AF. My mom actually found one of his old uniforms and found one of those pills soldiers take to basically take their own lives in case they get captured. The thought of my dad doing that just to protect our country, it freaks me out to this day. My dad was heavily involved in Operation Desert Storm during the Persian Gulf War. I was old enough to remember it (3rd Grade) and I remember our teacher showing us a map of the Middle east talking about the war and I was thinking, "My daddy isn't over there." Oh how wrong I was. My own brother is now in the Air Force, but he doesn't do Security, he works with weapons. Don't know his exact title, but he's a Master Sergeant now. He met his wife in the AF. She's now a stay-at-home mom raising my nephews and niece. My brother has been working during Covid, but he was able to work from home, but now he has to physically go back into work. He really liked staying home helping with the kids, so I imagine it's been hard for him to go back. At least he did have that time.
Your daughter is so adorable and very emotionally mature. The moment where she saw the boy walking to his dad and then she noticed you had started crying, she just couldn't hold back her tears anymore. As a 37 year old father of 2 older boys and a 2 year old daughter, this hit me in the feels. You were right about someone cutting onions, lol.
Dude, I'm a grown man and cannot handle watching these videos unless completely alone. Haha. Great pick Denzel, and remember a man is not just about muscle and grit, but leads and lives by the size of his heart.
I’m a soldier and I can’t handle it, I haven’t seen my parents or siblings since the end of may and I miss them to death, I did get to see my parents and older brother at bct graduation back in August but that was just not enough time with them
I just joined the military. I’m a 36 yo single mom of one. It was so hard to leave my boy for just six months for training. I can’t imagine being gone for any longer than that , especially in a combat zone. I will just prepare myself for what I signed up for either way. These videos always get me, but now they have an even deeper significance. It’s always going to be beautiful to see someone come home.
I did 12 years in the Army and was in the first Gulf War (Desert Storm), and 15 years later I had to watch my only son go off to Iraq for the second war there. Weird, being the deployed soldier in a war, and then years later being the parent of a deployed soldier in another war (it was much harder being the parent of a deployed soldier).
My own dad was in Operation Desert Storm (he's an Air Force vet), and my own brother joined the Air Force not long after 9/11 (2005 after turning 21). Several of his HS friends joined the military too when they could. One of our cousins joined the Navy. I know for a fact that ALL 3 of my grandfathers joined the army during war times (my maternal grandpa and paternal step-grandpa for WWII and paternal grandpa for Korean War). One of my great-grandpas was in WWI, so I am proud to be part of a military family for sure. Thanks for your service and your son's service!
@@Zodia195 & @itsahellofaname THANK YOU both so much for your service & your family members' service! My grandpa was in the Army during WWII, my dad was a Marine during Vietnam, my brother was a Marine in the late 90s (fortunately didn't see any combat, although was stationed overseas for a period of time), & my nephew is currently a Marine (he's a police officer at Camp Lejeune). I'm super proud of all of them!
I remember decades ago when my oldest boy was serving in the Navy. He had been deployed overseas for a couple of years. He had been gone about a year, when someone knocked on my door one evening. It was my son -- home for an unscheduled visit. He had wanted to surprise me, his brother and his grandparents. He definitely DID surprise me, as my knees buckled when I opened the door and saw it was him. I was in tears, so overcome with emotion. His grandmother had the same reaction. It is now a bittersweet memory, as he has been in Heaven since April, 2003. Anyway -- it's nice to see ALL people are moved by these emotional reunions. Thank you for sharing that with us.
I'm so sorry you lost your precious son. Hang onto those memories. Someone once said, that memories of those passed are little visits from them. My thoughts go to all who loved your son.
Navy Submarine vet here. These are some of my most cherished memories. Coming back to home from a long unknown deployment to family is the most humbling experience ever. Your wife's reaction to these are perfect. Tears are supposed to flow. My son is active duty Army right now in Poland. I can't wait to see him come home.
As a veteran of the USNavy, I know the feeling on both side of this. I came home to my family, but my Dad is a US Air Force veteran that served in Viet Nam in 1965-1966. These are very emotional, and I cry while watching these videos every time. Be Safe and Be Blessed.
As someone whose father did not come home from war, these videos always really get to me. I’m envious and happy for all of these families at the same time, a cherished memory they will keep, seeing them again, you really never know when it will be the last time.
I just want to say I'm so sorry for the loss of your father. Your feelings are very understandable. I'm sure these reunion videos are bittersweet. But, know that your father was a hero in the truest sense. Don't know where you're from or how long it's been since your father died, but this 63-year-old grandmother from Arkansas, USA, is thankful and full of gratitude for your father's service and your sacrifice.
Sorry about your loss. My father was in the Navy in WWII. On a Destroyer off Okinawa. My father-in-law fought in Korea and spent 27months 17days in a Chinese POW camp. Luckily they both made it home.
Atlanta seeing her parents get emotional really got to her.... but seeing her DADDY getting emotional reeeeeeeally got her! :) Hopefully her and Denz NEVER have to experience going through these emotions in real life. Trust me, I know. Love that you guys reacted to this as a family. Thank you.
No Greater example of love and empathy can be made for a child, than to see one’s father cry-whether in Joy or Sadness. My Dad was a Blessed one to grow up in a family that Didn’t berate the males when they cried, in the days Most were still taught that Real men Don’t cry. I was truly Shocked the first time I saw my Dad cry-My Big Strong Hero, had a heart of Gold!!! I learned More in that moment with no words, than Many long lessons filled with words.
As an Army mom it’s so hard !! I have spent almost 6 years wondering where our son is , how he is and if he will come home !!!! He has come home once a year !!! We love him so we support him and are so very proud of him !
❤ much love and prayers, I've been where you are. Being a mom is hard, and this is one of the hardest things to experience, next to losing a child. Thank you all for your sacrifice.
Im crying!! My husband is a Marine (Camp Pendleton ca.) and did 2 tours in desert storm (fall of Baghdad Iraq)..his homecoming was a blessing!!... what you might not be aware of is all the suffering with PTSD. That our veterans go through..it took my husband at least 6mo. to feel 'home'... the horrible travesties that these men and women see and go through is unimaginable... God bless your family love your videos! Peace be with you💖...love from Venice ca. U.S.A.✌😎
Nathan Fair - Fallen Soldier The medal that his dad gave him Tucked away in his duffle bag He said don't wory about a thing, Paps You'll be gettin' this when I'll get back Walkin' down the road Through the city on a routine patrol Shots rang out and he hits the ground Sergeant yells "Man down" This is for the ones who ain't comin' back Who fought for their country in Iraq And they left their families at home To come over here and die alone I carried his coffin onto the plane And gave a salute as they read off his name We packed away that duffle bag And the Silver Star that he got from his dad There was one old man when we got off the plane With no one there for him to greet But the whole damn company shook his hand We were brothers to the son he will never see This is for the ones who ain't comin' back Who fought for their country in Iraq And they left their families at home To come over here and die alone This is for the ones who ain't comin' back Who fought for their country in Iraq And they left their families at home To come over here and die alone
Me. Ginger: Thank you for bringing up PTSD. It has taken the VAs help to get me through this. Unlike some others, the VA saved me from suicide. I’m grateful.
It's mostly missing the parent that's away. Being a son of a serviceman, you can't think, what if he don't come back cuz he's your dad, he HAS to come back. God bless you NZ Fam
You know I watch these all the time and I don't know why because I end up sitting here crying like a little school girl. This actually happened with me and my brother when he came home from Vietnam. I was living with my mom and my stepfather and my sister and my brother and we had a knock at the door about 1:00 in the morning and my brother was standing there. And here's the topper to the whole thing, earlier that evening about 8:00 or 9:00 I was laying in bed looking at a picture of my brother that was on the dresser and just staring at him staring at him thinking about him and then he comes home at 1:00 in the morning knocking on the door. I get choked up about it just talking about it now so I got to go.
My almost 19 year old son is a US Marine. He’ll be going on his first deployment soon. By the time we see him again it will be almost a year and a half from when we saw him last. These videos always get me crying.
You don’t know how truely emotional it is to come home to your family after being gone for so long and not seeing them. It’s like a weight gets lifted from you and everything seems so right and surreal. That’s how it was when I came home from Afghanistan.
OMG...that got me too. That sweet girl couldn't handle seeing her daddy tear up...Bless her heart. I didn't see my dad cry often but when I did it made me realize he had emotions too which made me weep with him.
11mos late, but just wanted to say that the only time that I cried the hardest was seeing my dad in tears for the first time after 20+ years of my lifetime.
I can tell you from experience with two deployments to Afghanistan, as a dad, you’re already crying before you see your kids and wife. Trying to think of what to say and what to do. And both times all I could do, was get down on my knees and embrace them and cry just as much as they were.
All gave some. Some gave all. My entire family, top to bottom, has never-ending respect and gratitude for our troops. I could barely see through most of this video. Just crying.
My father is a veteran, and he came home when I was 7, and I remember just balling my eyes out. It was such an amazing moment that ill never forget. Thank you for reacting and being so respectful to our troops.
Not sure who got to me more, the little boy that was struggling to get to his dad or Atlanta, I think I would have to say it's a combination of both, as a Vietnam Veteran I also would love to say thanks to the families and all Veterans
Welcome home. I joined the navy before women in combat was being done. I joined because they were talking about reinstating the draft. With enough women, they could keep military all volunteer. I firmly believe it is more effective that way. I wish I could have been there to welcome home every vet who has ever returned to contempt. It breaks my heart. I hope you have peace. 🌺
I loved this!! I served for two years in Kaiserslautern, Germany in the late 1980's and I can still remember my mom's bear hug at the airport the day I came home on leave You guys should do a video on animals reuniting with their soldiers. Another one could be how animals react to their soldier who paid the highest price and will never come home again.
The cute lil girl waddling going "oh, daddy!" with that tearful face...kills me every time.....if I had a daughter like that I'd die three times over...and I'd be willing to die many times over for her.
At 65 it still brings tears to this Marine Vet also. So proud of this God, Country, and Corps. And all my Brother & Sister Warriors . SEMPER FI & Ooh-Rah to all who serve Past, Present, & Future.
In the us we just we love our service members you can’t go to a sporting event without them being recognized and we have all these memorials in our capital that’s just it’s so humbling to visit
Thank-you for this, I am an army brat. My dad served for 30 years and a lot of tours overseas. His last tour was vietnam nam. And I thank God everyday he was one of the lucky ones who made it home. He passed last year, and I miss him so much. But so proud of him. Trust me those hugs are priceless. Thank you again
I'm just going down the commons here looking at people that talk about Vietnam. My brother served from 69 to 73 and you're right thank God he made it home also.
@@daytripper9222 My dad was up for retiring, but he seen to many of his friends going and decided to do a 2 year tour. That was a rough one. So many didn't make it home. My dad did not talk much about it. But I was and still so proud of him. Thank your brother for his service.
@@proudarmybrat3020 Sorry about your Dad's passing. We lost dad back in 2006. My dad was a police officer back in the day. Thank God he's not around today to see the madness. But anyway I live in Phoenix and luckily my brother only lives 5 minutes from me so we see a lot of each other. It's funny you brought that up about your dad not talking about Vietnam much because my brother is the same way. I think it was back in the '90s before I moved to Phoenix I was visiting him since he had lived here already and we were having a few drinks and I brought Vietnam up and that was the only time he ever talked about it I never brought it up again. Some of the things that he told me that he saw and seeing his buddies killed I knew we would never bring it up again. I think the two things that came out of it that was good was he made it home alive and that he still in contact with five of his buddies from Vietnam and they get together every 3 years.
@@daytripper9222 I'm in PA. Isn't that the truth about your dad. I don't know how these police officers do it. My dad did keep in contact with many of his buddies too. My mom and I made many friends also. I'm an only child, daddy's little girl. But we moved around a good bit with him here in the states and met some amazing friends on different army bases. It's not a life for the weak thats for sure. I know he had nightmares for a long time. Seen things no one should see. God bless them all.
I have enjoyed your videos back to when you were just doing reactions to videos of athletes. The videos with your lovely family are so much fun. As a veteran from a family of veterans, who is also married to a veteran, … this one brought me to tears.
It never crossed my mind to surprise my family coming home from Iraq twice. Im happy the way it transpired for me though. When i came home the first time, my grandfather, a black Vietnam Veteran (awarded with the Bronze Star), was there at the airport. I gave him a big hug, and he told me that my world would never be the same. My second deployment was in 2010. Unfortunately, grandfather had passed away in 2009. God bless all the warfighters.🫡🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🫡🇬🇧🏴🏴🏴🫡
As a retired Army major I remember coming home and just decided to surprise my daughters at their ballet practice. I even surprised my wife. I just showed up from deployment. No body new I was finally home! 😂😭😆
Thanks for the video as a Vietnam vet it's great to see our military so being appreciated now . And appreciate your family for caring. THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS.
Beautiful reaction from all of you. The day I watched my son leave for Afghanistan filled my very soul with so many emotions it’s hard to put into words, terrified, proud, scared. Every single day. He did return safely but at a price. There’s a part of him that stayed there. To this day 12 years later he’s still startled by the sounds of our July 4th celebrations, or any other sudden loud sound. Tears are a wonderful thing! Blessings to you all♥️♥️
I'm Military Vet myself as is my brother so thank you for your praise and well wishes. You might find the tradition of the military fly overs at sporting events pretty interesting, also The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the story behind it might interest you guys as well. Just keep taking me on adventures and I'll keep following along! Have an awesome day!
I was the Army medic that commented on the Star Spangled Banner video y'all did. I did something similar to my Mom when I was 19. I had been away for about half a year at basic training and medic school (AIT). She was working at our local grocery store/supermarket. I snuck up behind her and all she could see where my shiny black dress shoes. She screamed and yelled when she actually saw me because I told her I was not coming home for a few more days. My Grandfather was in WWII in Burma, my Father was in Vietnam, and I served during Desert Shield/Storm. When Veterans pass here in America an American flag is given to the family. My Grandfather and Father's flags hang on my wall and maybe one day my flag will hang next to theirs. On a lighter note, Mom and Atlanta almost look like clones. At least when you grow up Atlanta you know you will be really pretty. Good luck and keep the videos coming. Much love from America.
As a guy who was in for 2 years in the us army. I appreciate you reacting to this. It’s one of the reasons I served. Knowing once you see your love ones is very special!
All the men in my family served or currently serving in the Military. My nephew Billy is in Army Special Forces & it's incredibly overwhelming to see once he steps off a plane from deployment. The best way I can describe it is relief & complete happiness that he made it home safe.
I've been out of the Army almost six years now, and any time it's been more than two weeks since I visit my sister, my niece still asks her, "Did Uncle Joe go back in the Army?" Breaks my heart. Love your family. Love watching your reaction videos. Love NZ.
Thank you. 🥰. This hit home. I will never forget seeing my brother when he returned home to the United States after Army service in Iraq in the early 2000s. Such intense joy and gratitude that he came home. 😭🥰😭. So thankful for the sacrifices of service members and their families in defense of freedom. ❤️
These coming home videos always bring tears to my eyes. My dad is retired US Army and been deployed 3 times to Iraq and it is so emotional when he came home you just can't stop hugging!
I bawled my eyes out again.....I've watched these before and bawl every time. I always remember my daughter and son leaving for boot camp (both Marine Corps different years ), and the pain of missing them when they got deployed or went over seas. (2 years is a long time) .You are on egg shells until they get home, but that is what they chose to do right out of high school. My daughter was in boot camp when 9-11 happened. If you ever get a chance to watch "The making of a Marine" by Discovery channel 2001, she is in that movie/documentary, at boot camp. There is also another , newer one called Making Marines or something like that. I don't know what boot camp is like now. There is also Army, Navy, and Air Force. I had relatives /uncles/grandparents, Ggrand parents, GGgrandparents, GGGgrand parents, in Revolutionary war, Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korean war, Vietnam War.
I can't imagine this as a parent!! I have lived through it with my father (my husband was also in) and with myself going off to boot camp, etc. But to have a child, I don't know ... it must be SO hard.
Both my parents came from large families....growing up from a small child I have been fortunate to have many of these reunions...uncle's...cousins...and friends...they are wonder and such relief comes following these separations....save for three.......they were much different and a different kind of tears fell......but we are blessed that they are returned to home ground...many are not that fortunate.... Thanks for reminding us how fortunate we are....fortunate and blessed to have our heroes and our angels among us...🙂🌷
Just think we can be over 5000+ miles away from our children and family. You still love your family from that far. You look up at the stars in the heavens. Proud to be an American Veteran ❤/🇺🇸
I came home from overseas and surprised my grandmother (She raised me) for her birthday. All the family came, cousins and distant relatives and she didn't realize until I came in last with her son (my dad) and her other grandson. She lost it! It was awesome! Loved y'alls tears and shared joy with welcoming service members home.
Thanks for showing this video, these homecomings are well deserved and I'm happy to see them. Our home coming from Vietnam was much different. GySgt. Tom Boyte, USMC, retired Vietnam 65-66/70-71 "God and the soldier we adore in times of danger and not before. Danger passed and all things righted, God is forgotten and the soldier slighted"
Yea brother , it must've sucked coming back from Vietnam with all those hippies and commies spitting and throwing stuff at you. 3 of my uncles went to Vietnam. 1 was a tunnel rat. My oldest brother was in dessert storm and operation enduring freedom he served for 28 years. I respect you all and so should every other American living free in this country.
Just came across this video... I served in the US Military and I can't put into words the emotions this brings back from returning home from deployments. Thank you for sharing!
I love watching you guys react to our American ways! We truly love having New Zealand as an ally and would welcome you here in the US with open arms always! Much love from Oregon!
I am a grown man, I served in the German Army myself and I start crying every time I watch these videos. It's easy to forget that it's not just the soldiers who make sacrifices. Greetings to all Allied Forces. All those currently serving, those who have served, and their families.
I was stationed at Field Station Berlin, 75-77. The wall was still up. I've applied to be selected for the "Welcome home program", so hopefully, ill be visiting in October. Best wishes, Mike, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
You know I think something else that might be nice for you to all see are the videos of when people see color for the first time.....they are really beautiful....one of my favorites is when a father notices how blue his daughter's eyes are
😭This really hit home for me. My son surprised me just last month after 2 years deployed in Bahrain. He made it home in time for Thanksgiving. Unfortunately he had to leave 2 days after Thanksgiving. Thank you, all service men and women for your sacrifices. 🇺🇸🙏🏼
It’s so very hard on the kids, especially when they are growing up and really need the advice, love and guidance from their missing parent. Our boys had a hard time when their dad was gone, there are things a young man just needs his dad for. As the spouse you try to hold the family and home together and pray they come home alive.
As a marine it warms my heart to see you all as a family sit as as a family. As a marine we are deployed so much that we are jealous of you with the time you get to spend with your family.
Thank you for your gratitude. I appreciate you for that. I lost a few friends out in Iraq, and it felt strange coming home without them. I actually got engaged when I got home, but sadly, it didn’t last. What makes it all better is your amazing family. Thank you for watching such a video! It’s not my first time seeing some of them, but I too still tear up when I see them! Thanks again for watching!
It's crazy because I have two best friends who were deployed to Iraq for 4 years and when they came back they were changed but best believe we were closer than ever. The worry is hard everyday.
One of my best friends just went into the military. I should see him again in December. Many of my family members are and have also served in the military. Love your videos also, keep it up!
I just came across this video and unfortunately these videos tear me up EVERY TIME. I am a combat veteran who had 2 tours overseas and came across exs who werent so loving when I left overseas as I'd hope they had been so I never really got a "welcome home" from a loved one because my family lived far away from where I was stationed and the family that was supposed to love and support me where I was loved others more than me so I always came home to either nobody being there because they were in someone else's home or I was just alone with my family home doing their regular responsibilities. God Speed to all of those soldiers and I'm forever grateful for my service as well as the service of my brothers and sisters.
I've surprised my parents twice and both times it felt amazing. The whole logistics of it is difficult and you're hoping that the people helping you wont accidentally spill the beans. But to see their faces makes it so worth it.
That feeling. The moment you know it’s really over and you’re actually home. It’s not when you get on the plane, or when you land back home, it’s not the first meal or the drive down the highway… it’s always that first hug. That first grasp of those you left behind. That is when you feel like you’re finally home. I’ll never forget the minute I saw my mom and she burst into tears. God bless our troops, love you guys
UPDATE!!! He is home!! We had him standing in the hall when the kids opened the door from school. The big C is hitting our area hard so anything public was out of the question. Just trying to keep them in school. They have been in school a week and already both been home sick and one had a case in their class. The school didn't even tell us. The child's parents did on social media 🤦♀️ So we are just sitting here waiting for our kids to get it. 😪
@@violetpup4272 Next time dad deploys and you're looking for a way to surprise the kids, maybe a trip to Disney or something and have dad in the Mickey costume when the kids go to get a photo with Mickey, but right before the photo is taken, dad takes off the headwear and then you have the kids go look at the photo to "see if it's good enough" and it'll be dad behind them the whole time in the photo.
“All gave some. Some gave all.” I’m a veteran and lost a couple of guys in Iraq. And sometimes those who come home, don’t fully come home. Thank you for your respect.
Thank you, sir, for all you've done for our country! I pray you peace. I and my family salute you!
Thank you so much for your service and the life you sacraficed to ensure the safety and freedoms of not only America but also across the world. Your love of country is what makes this world a better place. God bless you and your family!
Thank you for you service. My son was in Iraq as well.
Thank you for your service. God bless.
Thank you. Former USAF, peacetime. 22 a day needs work.
The saddest part is when one's own country turns on them. I remember coming back from Iraq, and there was a Vietnam veteran there amongst the crowd. He was happy and emotional, but asked, "Why couldn't they treat us like this when we came home." That was such a true statement. People don't choose to go to war, their country sends them. We should always support our troops returning home.
I cried my heart out all day when that last plane left Iraq knowing our soilders were left behind along with our allies that were going to face certain death . I'm not a crier but that day I couldn't pull it together. My heart absolute breaks for all the soilders who sacrificed so much & all the families of fallen soilders bc it literally feels like it was all for nothing.
I agree. Luckily it has changed since Vietnam. The saddest part that is still true today is a vet coming home and not be able find a job. housing, excellent health care. That is still a disgusting truth today.
I saw it happened so many times. We were hated, there's a few things in life that tears your heart apart more than be hated by your own people. USAF RETIRED.
It was terrible how our brave men and women were treated when they came home from Vietnam. Then it was a war with a draft, those young men had no choice. I grew up in that era and have vivid memories of the news each night starting with the death and injured count. It was horrible. I have always felt badly for how our country mistreated the vets. I always say thank you to our vets and have for years, before it became the thing to do after 9/11.
My dad was a Vietnam vet. I am glad that this country has learned to respect its service members since, but wish Dad didn't have to endure the hell he was given when he got back after seeing people he served with die.
Don't hide your tears. They don't show your weakness, they show your humanity.
wow...... so nice
One of the best things I've ever heard it's crazy how different types of videos can put people in different types of moods
UNDERSTOOD ENJOY THE COMING HOLIDAYS RESPECT 💯🎯 USMC RET
"Don't hide your tears....." - so, so true. It takes a man to let his tears be shown.
Bless You ENJOY THE COMING HOLIDAYS RESPECT 🙏🏅
The US has so many foreign military bases that need manned that we have thousands overseas. Even if it’s not combat they’re still deeply missed and respected.
And it doesn’t even have to be “overseas” My dad was in the Navy 20 years, and except for a very short time working in a recruiting station in the largest city in his home state he was 1,000 miles away at the very least from his parents. He would take 3 weeks leave in the summer to drive home and visit with family (I should say we to include our mother my brother and I) but that still mean 11 month out of 12 with very little contact and even then, that leaves you with exactly one week of leave to do anything with your immediate family so for us our summers were bookended with camping trips on memorial and Labor Day weekends and the odd weekend day trips (because he had overnight duty one day in six it’s was difficult to do something over Saturday night)
Anyway it always ate at my father that his dad died in a car accident a bare 4 months before he (my father) was set to retire and planned to return home while planning his civilian career
Ashley is correct. Even the US Dept of Defense doesn't really know how many installations they have world wide.
The best guess is at least 800 installations.
Yes there is even one in New Zealand.
The US Military is EVERYWHERE
ua-cam.com/video/-YR2TxHkb4c/v-deo.html
@@douglascampbell9809 true the problem comes with what do you call an “installation “ is a multi force recruiting station next to a laundry mat in a strip mall that is “commanded” by either a butter bar fresh out of the academy, or in his absence the NCO that has one week seniority over his peer
(Multi force meaning a navy chief shares space with the army and air force Sgts and handles recruiting for Marines and Coast guard out of courtesy, while they “share” a couple of enlisted personnel who are waiting to go to recruiters school or in some other way are in some sort of transition.
As an American, I envy you... it's kinda of nice to hear that you can't relate to the US homecoming. I hope it stays that way for you and your country!
Love these videos but have some mixed feelings. I grew up around the army and my father spent two tours in Vietnam. Of course unceremonious pickups at the airport upon his return each time. God bless all military families.
The little girl saying " oh daddy" gets me every time.god bless our troops and their families
That was so precious!!!!
Seriously melted my heart 😭😭😭
dunno why...it is hard watching children cry esp daughters....:(
Same here my Friend
They cut off the part where she is all grins and giggles and says, 'I missed you!' She is cute as can be!!
As an Army widow, these videos get me bawling, but I love watching them. 😭
So sorry for your loss. And thank you for his service and your sacrifice.
I can’t imagine, all I can say is thank you.
Much respect and love your way
Idk I just felt like telling u that u are loved and ty for ur service
Being a family member or loved one of someone in the service takes as much strength as being in the service.
You both should react to
"The First Medal of Honor Recorded In History".
Everyone, please up-vote this
I second this!!!
Definitely.
Please do. They’d be blown away
Definitely
Don't let the kids watch it though. It's actual combat with people fighting and dying.
Please do not be embarrassed to cry,....You should cry...These are the kinds of things that keep your heart full of compassion. That is one thing Americans are not embarrassed to do, is cry. I remember seeing my daughter (Marine Corps) walking across the airport to her dad and I and all I could do was stop, set down and cry. After 2 years, I couldn't handle it. it almost feels like they have died (being gone so long), then there they are in front of you.
@Angelina Gigi Williams.... Thanks for sharing your touching story and please thank your daughter for her service to our country.
you guys made me cry it was so sweet to show your kids this cause us americans see these happend alot
❤
As an American I was crying too! Our men and women soldiers and their families have sacrificed so much all down through our country. I have so much love and respect for them all!
As a dad with a son who has cerebral palsy that has difficulty walking. That shot of the dad seeing his son walking really hits. These videos in general will get you misty eyed.
Forget misty eyed, these videos have me ugly crying from the first frame.
@@dortheyc5276 Doesn't matter how many times I've watched these. I ugly cry, every time.
More so now, considering you baby brother has committed to joining the Marine Corps once he graduates high school. He's got his Senior year left and I am SO proud of him!
@@meganlynn83 God bless and keep him! It's my belief that the families of our soldiers serve as well, just in a different capacity. Every day they pray for and worry about them. They fear the ringing of the phone or doorbell. When the soldier is a husband and father, the wife takes on the roll of both mother and father. You all serve! I pray for our military and first responders every day. Those people who hate our country and our flag are not the majority of this great nation. God bless and stay safe. :)
@@dortheyc5276 Thank you so much for your kind words! My baby brother was adopted at birth by my parents and is the greatest blessing!
I am a VERY proud sister!
I am 34 years old and my son turns 12 on Tuesday and has ALWAYS been obsessed with the military. Specifically the Marine Corps.
If my son chooses to join when he is older, I will be terrified that my only child would go into the military, however I will support him and his dreams!
My Great Grandfather fought in WWII with the Army. He told me so many interesting stories before he passed.
Thank you for your prayers and God bless you and your family as well! 💙
As a former USMC wife, I’m crying just reading the comments even before I’ve watched the video! What a great group of followers on this channel! Thanks for bringing all these folks together. ❤️
Thank your husband for me. Also, thank you and the rest of your family. God bless you!
Thank you, M'am, for your support of that Marine and for >your< sacrifice, too. And please tell him I and my family thank him for his service.
As a son my dad was in US army we move from state to state to base to base. This video hits home
Monica Mathers thank you for Your sacrifice. I know it was not easy being away from your spouse for long periods of time and what it must have been like for your kids. Without people like you alot of our service men and women wouldn't have the support they need. So thank you.
Thank You for your sacrifice. Please thank your husband for his service. 🌹🇺🇸
My husband in Iraq and I haven’t seen him for 4years. I miss him so much. He coming home in August and I can’t wait for that moment to come
As an Army brat myself both of my parents served so this hits home
@crannkee55 thank u I come from a military family not just my mom and dad but my grandfather to
@@LoveBites1279 some to u
Thank you for YOUR service. I know your parents were enlisted, but the whole family "serves" and I appreciate what sacrifice that is for the entire family.
Oh I know the feeling. My dad is a retired Air Force vet and I didn't see him a lot due to his work in Security. My mom didn't even know where he was half of the time and I didn't know what he did until I was a teen after he was out of the AF. My mom actually found one of his old uniforms and found one of those pills soldiers take to basically take their own lives in case they get captured. The thought of my dad doing that just to protect our country, it freaks me out to this day. My dad was heavily involved in Operation Desert Storm during the Persian Gulf War. I was old enough to remember it (3rd Grade) and I remember our teacher showing us a map of the Middle east talking about the war and I was thinking, "My daddy isn't over there." Oh how wrong I was.
My own brother is now in the Air Force, but he doesn't do Security, he works with weapons. Don't know his exact title, but he's a Master Sergeant now. He met his wife in the AF. She's now a stay-at-home mom raising my nephews and niece. My brother has been working during Covid, but he was able to work from home, but now he has to physically go back into work. He really liked staying home helping with the kids, so I imagine it's been hard for him to go back. At least he did have that time.
@@LoveBites1279 respect
Your daughter is so adorable and very emotionally mature. The moment where she saw the boy walking to his dad and then she noticed you had started crying, she just couldn't hold back her tears anymore.
As a 37 year old father of 2 older boys and a 2 year old daughter, this hit me in the feels. You were right about someone cutting onions, lol.
The boy hardly said a word!! LOL I’m guessing he was full of tears as well!!
Love Atlantas' name. Grew up in Atlanta, used to be beautiful but overrun with gangs and violence...
yea, I noticed Atlanta crying and looking at everyone to see if they were crying too 😢😭
@@kenygordon You're absolutely right about that. 2 dead here, 2 wounded. 50 shots fired, just 2 nights ago. It's a shame.
Bro iam from India but all kiwis are really kind hearted honest people on earth
To all of our troops in this video, in the comments or watching this, thank you for your service 🇺🇲 Love and prayers 🤍🙏
And I approve that comment! Thank you
I can tell your daughter was trying to be strong but she started pouring buckets lol. Good family cry sesh 😂😭😭😭
Yeah I think seeing her parents get misty, particularly her father, made her get even more emotional! Sweet girl!❤️
@@Krisgenx She was about to lose it when the soldier seen his son walking at 5:33
Dude, I'm a grown man and cannot handle watching these videos unless completely alone. Haha. Great pick Denzel, and remember a man is not just about muscle and grit, but leads and lives by the size of his heart.
I’m a soldier and I can’t handle it, I haven’t seen my parents or siblings since the end of may and I miss them to death, I did get to see my parents and older brother at bct graduation back in August but that was just not enough time with them
@@comrademason7835Thank you for your service!🇺🇸.
I'm the same way I'm balling now alone of course.
I feel so bad for the families of Afghanistan victims, fk Biden
@@jasonsmith4969 Biden didn't handle it properly, he can't even handle toilet paper properly.
I just joined the military. I’m a 36 yo single mom of one. It was so hard to leave my boy for just six months for training. I can’t imagine being gone for any longer than that , especially in a combat zone. I will just prepare myself for what I signed up for either way. These videos always get me, but now they have an even deeper significance. It’s always going to be beautiful to see someone come home.
I did 12 years in the Army and was in the first Gulf War (Desert Storm), and 15 years later I had to watch my only son go off to Iraq for the second war there. Weird, being the deployed soldier in a war, and then years later being the parent of a deployed soldier in another war (it was much harder being the parent of a deployed soldier).
My own dad was in Operation Desert Storm (he's an Air Force vet), and my own brother joined the Air Force not long after 9/11 (2005 after turning 21). Several of his HS friends joined the military too when they could. One of our cousins joined the Navy. I know for a fact that ALL 3 of my grandfathers joined the army during war times (my maternal grandpa and paternal step-grandpa for WWII and paternal grandpa for Korean War). One of my great-grandpas was in WWI, so I am proud to be part of a military family for sure. Thanks for your service and your son's service!
@@Zodia195 & @itsahellofaname THANK YOU both so much for your service & your family members' service! My grandpa was in the Army during WWII, my dad was a Marine during Vietnam, my brother was a Marine in the late 90s (fortunately didn't see any combat, although was stationed overseas for a period of time), & my nephew is currently a Marine (he's a police officer at Camp Lejeune). I'm super proud of all of them!
I was active duty Navy 1996-2004 and now my daughter is in the Navy reserves .
@@mollieorzehowski9409 You must be so proud of your daughter following in your military footsteps! Thank you both for your service and God Bless!
Thank you for your service!
I remember decades ago when my oldest boy was serving in the Navy. He had been deployed overseas for a couple of years. He had been gone about a year, when someone knocked on my door one evening. It was my son -- home for an unscheduled visit. He had wanted to surprise me, his brother and his grandparents. He definitely DID surprise me, as my knees buckled when I opened the door and saw it was him. I was in tears, so overcome with emotion. His grandmother had the same reaction. It is now a bittersweet memory, as he has been in Heaven since April, 2003. Anyway -- it's nice to see ALL people are moved by these emotional reunions. Thank you for sharing that with us.
I'm so sorry you lost your precious son.
Hang onto those memories.
Someone once said, that memories of those passed are little visits from them.
My thoughts go to all who loved your son.
I am extremely sorry for your loss.
I am sorry for your loss and grateful that you remember him in such a beautiful way.
I too lost family overseas. My condolences, may your son rest in tranquility.
So sorry for your loss ❤️
Navy Submarine vet here. These are some of my most cherished memories. Coming back to home from a long unknown deployment to family is the most humbling experience ever. Your wife's reaction to these are perfect. Tears are supposed to flow. My son is active duty Army right now in Poland. I can't wait to see him come home.
As a veteran of the USNavy, I know the feeling on both side of this. I came home to my family, but my Dad is a US Air Force veteran that served in Viet Nam in 1965-1966. These are very emotional, and I cry while watching these videos every time. Be Safe and Be Blessed.
Very emotional for me also. My brother served in Vietnam from 69 to 73. Thank God he made it back home
Ronald, thank you for your service and your father's too.
Thank you for your service!
Thank you for your service Ron! 💓
Thanks for your service, shipmate.
STG2 USN
Your reactions were wonderful. Many people don’t realize there is a cost for the freedom we enjoy.
Tears are ok.😭
You're absolutely right ❤❤🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
I don't mean to be rude but which recent war was about freedom
US has a war every 29 minutes or so, whether they should be fought or not.
Denzel just looked so sad watching. Almost like he was putting himself in place of the kids in the video.
As an American, nothing makes me more proud than our soldiers. We are nothing without them. God bless you all
As someone whose father did not come home from war, these videos always really get to me. I’m envious and happy for all of these families at the same time, a cherished memory they will keep, seeing them again, you really never know when it will be the last time.
I just want to say I'm so sorry for the loss of your father. Your feelings are very understandable. I'm sure these reunion videos are bittersweet. But, know that your father was a hero in the truest sense. Don't know where you're from or how long it's been since your father died, but this 63-year-old grandmother from Arkansas, USA, is thankful and full of gratitude for your father's service and your sacrifice.
Sorry about your loss. My father was in the Navy in WWII. On a Destroyer off Okinawa. My father-in-law fought in Korea and spent 27months 17days in a Chinese POW camp. Luckily they both made it home.
May he rest in piece
@@geoffreysmommy amazing
@@melissaechols7521 amazing
Atlanta seeing her parents get emotional really got to her.... but seeing her DADDY getting emotional reeeeeeeally got her! :) Hopefully her and Denz NEVER have to experience going through these emotions in real life. Trust me, I know. Love that you guys reacted to this as a family. Thank you.
No Greater example of love and empathy can be made for a child, than to see one’s father cry-whether in Joy or Sadness. My Dad was a Blessed one to grow up in a family that Didn’t berate the males when they cried, in the days Most were still taught that Real men Don’t cry. I was truly Shocked the first time I saw my Dad cry-My Big Strong Hero, had a heart of Gold!!! I learned More in that moment with no words, than Many long lessons filled with words.
Thank you for your service!!
@@shirleycolopy4322 it was my pleasure. Thanks for the support.
@@Sgt_MoDog_USMC thank you for your service Sir!!! Cheers from Wisconsin
As an Army mom it’s so hard !! I have spent almost 6 years wondering where our son is , how he is and if he will come home !!!! He has come home once a year !!! We love him so we support him and are so very proud of him !
❤ much love and prayers, I've been where you are. Being a mom is hard, and this is one of the hardest things to experience, next to losing a child. Thank you all for your sacrifice.
Im crying!! My husband is a Marine (Camp Pendleton ca.) and did 2 tours in desert storm (fall of Baghdad Iraq)..his homecoming was a blessing!!... what you might not be aware of is all the suffering with PTSD. That our veterans go through..it took my husband at least 6mo. to feel 'home'... the horrible travesties that these men and women see and go through is unimaginable... God bless your family love your videos! Peace be with you💖...love from Venice ca. U.S.A.✌😎
Thank your husband for me. Also i would like to thank you and the rest of your fsmily. May God bless you!
Nathan Fair - Fallen Soldier
The medal that his dad gave him
Tucked away in his duffle bag
He said don't wory about a thing, Paps
You'll be gettin' this when I'll get back
Walkin' down the road
Through the city on a routine patrol
Shots rang out and he hits the ground
Sergeant yells "Man down"
This is for the ones who ain't comin' back
Who fought for their country in Iraq
And they left their families at home
To come over here and die alone
I carried his coffin onto the plane
And gave a salute as they read off his name
We packed away that duffle bag
And the Silver Star that he got from his dad
There was one old man when we got off the plane
With no one there for him to greet
But the whole damn company shook his hand
We were brothers to the son he will never see
This is for the ones who ain't comin' back
Who fought for their country in Iraq
And they left their families at home
To come over here and die alone
This is for the ones who ain't comin' back
Who fought for their country in Iraq
And they left their families at home
To come over here and die alone
Me. Ginger:
Thank you for bringing up PTSD. It has taken the VAs help to get me through this.
Unlike some others, the VA saved me from suicide. I’m grateful.
@@humanityisevil awesome words that honour fallen soldiers. Thank you for sharing this 🙏
It's mostly missing the parent that's away. Being a son of a serviceman, you can't think, what if he don't come back cuz he's your dad, he HAS to come back. God bless you NZ Fam
I remember that too. You don't consider them not coming home. You just decide they will.
My dad is a retired Navy Chief. The only time I remember him coming home was when he surprised us at an AHL Norfolk Admirals game around 2009.
We owe so much to the men and women who serve in the military. It's always so beautiful to see them reunited with family!
As a veteran....thank you for being so respectful and understanding. I really appreciate it.
You know I watch these all the time and I don't know why because I end up sitting here crying like a little school girl. This actually happened with me and my brother when he came home from Vietnam. I was living with my mom and my stepfather and my sister and my brother and we had a knock at the door about 1:00 in the morning and my brother was standing there. And here's the topper to the whole thing, earlier that evening about 8:00 or 9:00 I was laying in bed looking at a picture of my brother that was on the dresser and just staring at him staring at him thinking about him and then he comes home at 1:00 in the morning knocking on the door. I get choked up about it just talking about it now so I got to go.
My almost 19 year old son is a US Marine. He’ll be going on his first deployment soon. By the time we see him again it will be almost a year and a half from when we saw him last. These videos always get me crying.
You don’t know how truely emotional it is to come home to your family after being gone for so long and not seeing them. It’s like a weight gets lifted from you and everything seems so right and surreal. That’s how it was when I came home from Afghanistan.
Being a daddy’s girl, there is just something so powerful about seeing your dad cry. ❤️❤️ Loving these happy tears.
💪💪✔✔🙋♂🙋♂
OMG...that got me too. That sweet girl couldn't handle seeing her daddy tear up...Bless her heart. I didn't see my dad cry often but when I did it made me realize he had emotions too which made me weep with him.
Same!
11mos late, but just wanted to say that the only time that I cried the hardest was seeing my dad in tears for the first time after 20+ years of my lifetime.
I can tell you from experience with two deployments to Afghanistan, as a dad, you’re already crying before you see your kids and wife. Trying to think of what to say and what to do. And both times all I could do, was get down on my knees and embrace them and cry just as much as they were.
No worries, we're shedding tears right alongside each of you. Thank you for your good hearts. All my best from Texas.
All gave some. Some gave all.
My entire family, top to bottom, has never-ending respect and gratitude for our troops.
I could barely see through most of this video. Just crying.
My father is a veteran, and he came home when I was 7, and I remember just balling my eyes out. It was such an amazing moment that ill never forget. Thank you for reacting and being so respectful to our troops.
Not sure who got to me more, the little boy that was struggling to get to his dad or Atlanta, I think I would have to say it's a combination of both, as a Vietnam Veteran I also would love to say thanks to the families and all Veterans
Welcome home Lonnie
@@paulvinco7185 thank you Paul
God Bless you & thank you for ALL that you have done for us. Never forgotten. 🤗💖🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Welcome home.
I joined the navy before women in combat was being done. I joined because they were talking about reinstating the draft. With enough women, they could keep military all volunteer. I firmly believe it is more effective that way.
I wish I could have been there to welcome home every vet who has ever returned to contempt. It breaks my heart.
I hope you have peace. 🌺
As a mother, it's the most special thing, to know your child is safe and at home. My heart was full and my bucket of worries became trivial.
Thank you Denzie, for a suggestion that turned out to be LEGENDary 😉
I loved this!!
I served for two years in Kaiserslautern, Germany in the late 1980's and I can still remember my mom's bear hug at the airport the day I came home on leave
You guys should do a video on animals reuniting with their soldiers.
Another one could be how animals react to their soldier who paid the highest price and will never come home again.
Wasn’t there a Little League Baseball team from Kaiserslautern from a while ago?? I know they had teams from Rammstein as well too
The cute lil girl waddling going "oh, daddy!" with that tearful face...kills me every time.....if I had a daughter like that I'd die three times over...and I'd be willing to die many times over for her.
Thank you for your honor and kindness towards our military service men and women, 🙏🏽🇺🇸
I love how Atlanta held it together until she saw her dad starting to cry. It's tough to see your hero cry.
Don't feel bad as a 64 year old retired Vet myself this still brings tears to my eyes also, so feel free to show you emotions.
At 65 it still brings tears to this Marine Vet also. So proud of this God, Country, and Corps. And all my Brother & Sister Warriors .
SEMPER FI & Ooh-Rah to all who serve Past, Present, & Future.
In the us we just we love our service members you can’t go to a sporting event without them being recognized and we have all these memorials in our capital that’s just it’s so humbling to visit
Thank-you for this, I am an army brat. My dad served for 30 years and a lot of tours overseas. His last tour was vietnam nam. And I thank God everyday he was one of the lucky ones who made it home. He passed last year, and I miss him so much. But so proud of him. Trust me those hugs are priceless. Thank you again
I'm just going down the commons here looking at people that talk about Vietnam. My brother served from 69 to 73 and you're right thank God he made it home also.
@@daytripper9222 My dad was up for retiring, but he seen to many of his friends going and decided to do a 2 year tour. That was a rough one. So many didn't make it home. My dad did not talk much about it. But I was and still so proud of him. Thank your brother for his service.
@@proudarmybrat3020 Sorry about your Dad's passing. We lost dad back in 2006. My dad was a police officer back in the day. Thank God he's not around today to see the madness. But anyway I live in Phoenix and luckily my brother only lives 5 minutes from me so we see a lot of each other. It's funny you brought that up about your dad not talking about Vietnam much because my brother is the same way. I think it was back in the '90s before I moved to Phoenix I was visiting him since he had lived here already and we were having a few drinks and I brought Vietnam up and that was the only time he ever talked about it I never brought it up again. Some of the things that he told me that he saw and seeing his buddies killed I knew we would never bring it up again. I think the two things that came out of it that was good was he made it home alive and that he still in contact with five of his buddies from Vietnam and they get together every 3 years.
@@daytripper9222 I'm in PA. Isn't that the truth about your dad. I don't know how these police officers do it. My dad did keep in contact with many of his buddies too. My mom and I made many friends also. I'm an only child, daddy's little girl. But we moved around a good bit with him here in the states and met some amazing friends on different army bases. It's not a life for the weak thats for sure. I know he had nightmares for a long time. Seen things no one should see. God bless them all.
@@proudarmybrat3020 God bless them indeed, 100%.
As a US Marine Vet. I know the feeling. It has always been hard knowing our families were going through those tough times
The little boy wo couldn't walk before his dad left then walked up to him when he returned ruined me 😭😭😭
That moment is unparalleled by anything.
I came home and surprised my little sister at her school.
That was the best hug ever.
beautiful! ! God Bless you all!
Thank you for your service!
I have enjoyed your videos back to when you were just doing reactions to videos of athletes. The videos with your lovely family are so much fun.
As a veteran from a family of veterans, who is also married to a veteran, … this one brought me to tears.
It never crossed my mind to surprise my family coming home from Iraq twice. Im happy the way it transpired for me though. When i came home the first time, my grandfather, a black Vietnam Veteran (awarded with the Bronze Star), was there at the airport. I gave him a big hug, and he told me that my world would never be the same. My second deployment was in 2010. Unfortunately, grandfather had passed away in 2009. God bless all the warfighters.🫡🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🫡🇬🇧🏴🏴🏴🫡
It's tough, I haven't seen my family in 2 years being over seas, but I don't get a chance like this without being in the military.
Thank you for your service!
Thank u for your service SIR GOD bless
As a retired Army major I remember coming home and just decided to surprise my daughters at their ballet practice. I even surprised my wife. I just showed up from deployment. No body new I was finally home! 😂😭😆
Hi David my name is Casey and thank you for your service
Thanks for the video as a Vietnam vet it's great to see our military so being appreciated now . And appreciate your family for caring. THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS.
Beautiful reaction from all of you. The day I watched my son leave for Afghanistan filled my very soul with so many emotions it’s hard to put into words, terrified, proud, scared. Every single day. He did return safely but at a price. There’s a part of him that stayed there. To this day 12 years later he’s still startled by the sounds of our July 4th celebrations, or any other sudden loud sound. Tears are a wonderful thing! Blessings to you all♥️♥️
I'm Military Vet myself as is my brother so thank you for your praise and well wishes. You might find the tradition of the military fly overs at sporting events pretty interesting, also The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the story behind it might interest you guys as well. Just keep taking me on adventures and I'll keep following along! Have an awesome day!
Thank you for your service!
These videos make me cry it’s so good to see them home again their pets are so happy to see them too
I was the Army medic that commented on the Star Spangled Banner video y'all did. I did something similar to my Mom when I was 19. I had been away for about half a year at basic training and medic school (AIT). She was working at our local grocery store/supermarket. I snuck up behind her and all she could see where my shiny black dress shoes. She screamed and yelled when she actually saw me because I told her I was not coming home for a few more days.
My Grandfather was in WWII in Burma, my Father was in Vietnam, and I served during Desert Shield/Storm. When Veterans pass here in America an American flag is given to the family. My Grandfather and Father's flags hang on my wall and maybe one day my flag will hang next to theirs.
On a lighter note, Mom and Atlanta almost look like clones. At least when you grow up Atlanta you know you will be really pretty. Good luck and keep the videos coming. Much love from America.
Thank you for your service!
As a guy who was in for 2 years in the us army. I appreciate you reacting to this. It’s one of the reasons I served. Knowing once you see your love ones is very special!
Thank you for your service!
As a wife of a soldier, these are truly heartfelt moments we cherrish.
All the men in my family served or currently serving in the Military. My nephew Billy is in Army Special Forces & it's incredibly overwhelming to see once he steps off a plane from deployment. The best way I can describe it is relief & complete happiness that he made it home safe.
Thank you to your entire family.
@@evabrechtel4321 my nephew said "Thank you for your support & it's his honor to serve for the country.". I also thank you🇺🇸❤
I've been out of the Army almost six years now, and any time it's been more than two weeks since I visit my sister, my niece still asks her, "Did Uncle Joe go back in the Army?" Breaks my heart.
Love your family. Love watching your reaction videos. Love NZ.
Happy tears, happy tears!😭 I cried so many happy tears, I'm wrung out!😁 Tears show your human and have a heart of gold!👍
Thank you. 🥰. This hit home. I will never forget seeing my brother when he returned home to the United States after Army service in Iraq in the early 2000s. Such intense joy and gratitude that he came home. 😭🥰😭. So thankful for the sacrifices of service members and their families in defense of freedom. ❤️
Those cut onions are making my eyes water in NY. Thanks for sharing.
It seems like onions have reached to me in Florida as well! NZ family's reaction was so precious!
Hits even harder when your brother never came home, god bless service families
10/13/11
These coming home videos always bring tears to my eyes. My dad is retired US Army and been deployed 3 times to Iraq and it is so emotional when he came home you just can't stop hugging!
I bawled my eyes out again.....I've watched these before and bawl every time. I always remember my daughter and son leaving for boot camp (both Marine Corps different years ), and the pain of missing them when they got deployed or went over seas. (2 years is a long time) .You are on egg shells until they get home, but that is what they chose to do right out of high school. My daughter was in boot camp when 9-11 happened. If you ever get a chance to watch "The making of a Marine" by Discovery channel 2001, she is in that movie/documentary, at boot camp. There is also another , newer one called Making Marines or something like that. I don't know what boot camp is like now. There is also Army, Navy, and Air Force. I had relatives /uncles/grandparents, Ggrand parents, GGgrandparents, GGGgrand parents, in Revolutionary war, Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korean war, Vietnam War.
I can't imagine this as a parent!! I have lived through it with my father (my husband was also in) and with myself going off to boot camp, etc. But to have a child, I don't know ... it must be SO hard.
God bless your family. Thank you.
May God bless you and your family.
Both my parents came from large families....growing up from a small child I have been fortunate to have many of these reunions...uncle's...cousins...and friends...they are wonder and such relief comes following these separations....save for three.......they were much different and a different kind of tears fell......but we are blessed that they are returned to home ground...many are not that fortunate....
Thanks for reminding us how fortunate we are....fortunate and blessed to have our heroes and our angels among us...🙂🌷
I remember trying to hold it together every time I had leave! Brings back memories. Thank you kiwis.
I'm not crying, you are! Man this was too much. Got me in the feels.
Just think we can be over 5000+ miles away from our children and family. You still love your family from that far. You look up at the stars in the heavens. Proud to be an American Veteran ❤/🇺🇸
This is what we service members fight for the protection of the ones we love and the country and people behind us that’s why we fight
Thank you for your service!
I came home from overseas and surprised my grandmother (She raised me) for her birthday. All the family came, cousins and distant relatives and she didn't realize until I came in last with her son (my dad) and her other grandson. She lost it! It was awesome! Loved y'alls tears and shared joy with welcoming service members home.
the daughter tearing up while watching her dad cry...doesn't get much more precious than that.
That really hits home for me as many of the men in my family served in the Armed Forces!♥️
Thanks for showing this video, these homecomings are well deserved and I'm happy to see them. Our home coming from Vietnam was much different.
GySgt. Tom Boyte, USMC, retired
Vietnam 65-66/70-71
"God and the soldier we adore in times of danger and not before. Danger passed and all things righted, God is forgotten and the soldier slighted"
Hey Brother, thank you for your Service. Semper Fi. D.S. 90-91
Yea brother , it must've sucked coming back from Vietnam with all those hippies and commies spitting and throwing stuff at you. 3 of my uncles went to Vietnam. 1 was a tunnel rat. My oldest brother was in dessert storm and operation enduring freedom he served for 28 years. I respect you all and so should every other American living free in this country.
Just came across this video... I served in the US Military and I can't put into words the emotions this brings back from returning home from deployments. Thank you for sharing!
I love watching you guys react to our American ways! We truly love having New Zealand as an ally and would welcome you here in the US with open arms always! Much love from Oregon!
I am a grown man, I served in the German Army myself and I start crying every time I watch these videos. It's easy to forget that it's not just the soldiers who make sacrifices. Greetings to all Allied Forces. All those currently serving, those who have served, and their families.
I was stationed at Field Station Berlin, 75-77. The wall was still up. I've applied to be selected for the "Welcome home program", so hopefully, ill be visiting in October. Best wishes, Mike, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
You have no idea how this project is teaching your children to appreciate the good of another country. Your tears are my tears. God bless you!
I love my country! Thank you Men & Women of the Armed Forces! 🥹🇺🇸❤
You know I think something else that might be nice for you to all see are the videos of when people see color for the first time.....they are really beautiful....one of my favorites is when a father notices how blue his daughter's eyes are
😭This really hit home for me. My son surprised me just last month after 2 years deployed in Bahrain. He made it home in time for Thanksgiving. Unfortunately he had to leave 2 days after Thanksgiving. Thank you, all service men and women for your sacrifices. 🇺🇸🙏🏼
My soldier never came home. Miss him everyday. Love you Frank ❤️
It’s so very hard on the kids, especially when they are growing up and really need the advice, love and guidance from their missing parent. Our boys had a hard time when their dad was gone, there are things a young man just needs his dad for. As the spouse you try to hold the family and home together and pray they come home alive.
As a marine it warms my heart to see you all as a family sit as as a family. As a marine we are deployed so much that we are jealous of you with the time you get to spend with your family.
Thank you for your gratitude. I appreciate you for that. I lost a few friends out in Iraq, and it felt strange coming home without them. I actually got engaged when I got home, but sadly, it didn’t last. What makes it all better is your amazing family. Thank you for watching such a video! It’s not my first time seeing some of them, but I too still tear up when I see them! Thanks again for watching!
It's crazy because I have two best friends who were deployed to Iraq for 4 years and when they came back they were changed but best believe we were closer than ever. The worry is hard everyday.
One of my best friends just went into the military. I should see him again in December. Many of my family members are and have also served in the military. Love your videos also, keep it up!
I just came across this video and unfortunately these videos tear me up EVERY TIME. I am a combat veteran who had 2 tours overseas and came across exs who werent so loving when I left overseas as I'd hope they had been so I never really got a "welcome home" from a loved one because my family lived far away from where I was stationed and the family that was supposed to love and support me where I was loved others more than me so I always came home to either nobody being there because they were in someone else's home or I was just alone with my family home doing their regular responsibilities. God Speed to all of those soldiers and I'm forever grateful for my service as well as the service of my brothers and sisters.
I've surprised my parents twice and both times it felt amazing. The whole logistics of it is difficult and you're hoping that the people helping you wont accidentally spill the beans. But to see their faces makes it so worth it.
I' ve had family in the service, thought I wouldn't cry but I did.🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🎉🎉🎉🎉👏👏👏👏
We LOVE our soldiers!!! My son served 23 years in the Air Force. Now our grandson is serving like his dad. So proud of him. Love your family.
Pleased to see your whole family being happy and just being together. May the good Lord Bless you with more.
God bless you all for all the wonderful emotions directed at the US!!
That feeling. The moment you know it’s really over and you’re actually home. It’s not when you get on the plane, or when you land back home, it’s not the first meal or the drive down the highway… it’s always that first hug. That first grasp of those you left behind. That is when you feel like you’re finally home. I’ll never forget the minute I saw my mom and she burst into tears. God bless our troops, love you guys
Trying to figure out right now how to surprise our kids when my husband gets home from his current deployment. These get me crying so bad 😭😭😭
What about a surprise at a sports game
UPDATE!!! He is home!! We had him standing in the hall when the kids opened the door from school. The big C is hitting our area hard so anything public was out of the question. Just trying to keep them in school. They have been in school a week and already both been home sick and one had a case in their class. The school didn't even tell us. The child's parents did on social media 🤦♀️ So we are just sitting here waiting for our kids to get it. 😪
@@violetpup4272 That's sad. I wish you my best
@@violetpup4272 Next time dad deploys and you're looking for a way to surprise the kids, maybe a trip to Disney or something and have dad in the Mickey costume when the kids go to get a photo with Mickey, but right before the photo is taken, dad takes off the headwear and then you have the kids go look at the photo to "see if it's good enough" and it'll be dad behind them the whole time in the photo.
@@oxide9679 that can’t be done. Disney has very strict rules about appearances.