I had the priviledge of photographing the military homecoming of San Diego Firefighter/Paramedic Matt Carr from Iraq on January 27, 2006. Matt is a sergeant in the army reserves and got called up for a tour in Iraq. He returned to San Diego Airport to a huge welcome home celebration. The firefighter bagpipers were playing as Matt came down the escalator to the applause and tears of his friends, family and colleagues. Division Chief Jeff Carle was there, and gave his firefighter the most heartfelt welcome that a boss could give. Matt's parents and sister came from Boston to welcome their their son home. And Matt's friends from the Fire Department were all there, including David Scigliano, who wore the traditional kilt and played the drums.

Getting to experience a military homecoming is a good way to stay grateful to the men and women who put themselves in harms way to protect us. Even the TV news people were emotional about this night. Matt, welcome home, and thank you for your dedicated service to our country.