(Editor’s note: Batesville native Emily Aldridge Hahn’s thoughts about Homecoming Day — the day that her husband returns from overseas deployment, (see photo on 5A) — provide insight into the apprehensions, risks and rewards that military personnel and their families share while insuring that our country remains secure from hostile threat.

Lt. Commander Chris Hahn is a Navy pilot in the VFA-81 Sunliners Squadron in Virginia Beach, VA. Emily is the daughter of Mickey and Gwen Aldridge of Batesville.)

I believe that some of the hardest days of my life have been those when I have dropped my husband Chris off at the squadron for a deployment. I must look back in my rear view mirror a thousand times with a view blurred by tears, always wondering if that’s the last glance I’ll get of his big wave and infectious smile.

Seeing those jets fly over in V-formation on homecoming day — after months of worry, being a single parent, and just keeping the home fires burning — is the most incredible feeling in the world. There are no words that can describe the million different emotions you feel.

I love the first hug. There is nothing like that embrace and knowing that he’s made it home safely.  I love seeing his reaction when holding his daughter for the first time in six months. I love being proud that while he’s been away, he’s been defending the United States of America, a country I’m so proud to call home.

Homecoming days are better than birthdays, Christmases, and anniversaries.  They are truly the most special days of our lives as military families. From a truly grateful heart – thank you to those who serve, to those who wait behind, and to those who lift prayers in our behalf.

May God bless America!