After being deployed to Afghanistan for months, Wednesday was a happy homecoming for dozens of airmen at Brevard County’s Patrick Air Force Base.

The 920th Rescue Wing flew into Patrick Air Force Base on a C-17 just before 4 p.m. to the sights of flags, banners and, of course, waiting family members.

"They are constantly in your mind and prayers. I am so proud of John," says Stephanie Williams, mother of a deployed airman.

Williams, her husband, mother and daughter were reunited with Williams' son, Staff Sgt. John Huser, for the first time since October.

"We were praying for him the whole time. I now the Lord brought him back safely. We are very proud of him," says Betty Dupree, Huser's grandmother.

The 920th Rescue Wing airmen have been on duty in Afghanistan for four months -- providing combat rescue operations in that region.

They flew in Air Force Pave Hawk helicopters to rush the injured to safety.

As they airmen walked off the plane, there was loud cheers of "welcome home."

For the families it's been a long wait -- especially for their loved ones working in such a far away, dangerous place.

And for Staff Sgt. Huser, he's seeing his weeks old nephew for the first time!

And as gratifying as doing such a dangerous job is --

"Getting people home safe, that's what it's all about. But now, I'm just happy to be home myself!" he said with a smile.

Over the past 50 years, the 920th Rescue Wing has rescued more than 3,000 people in peacetime and combat situations.