CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Marines and sailors with 2nd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group returned to their families from a combat tour to Afghanistan Oct. 5, 2011, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Families and friends patiently during a homecoming celebration, waited for their loved ones to arrive after a seven-month deployment in support of International Security Assistance Force operations in Helmand province.
“It’s refreshing to see the love from the families when they reunite after a long deployment,” explained Gary T. Scalzo, from Mentor, Ohio, the battalion’s family readiness officer. “It’s rewarding to see the tears of happiness and smiles of relief after they see their sons, daughters, husbands or wives get off the buses safe.”
While in Afghanistan, the Marines and sailors supported units while conducting 52 combat logistics patrols and 21 immediate response team missions, covering 10,693 miles, as well as providing maintenance for damaged vehicles.
“It was tough for us being away from him I can’t even imagine how it was for him,” explained Rosa I. Grimblot, originally from Las Vegas, who was waiting for her husband. “But we are really happy he is already back and safe.”
As the Marines and sailors settle back with their families after the seven-month combat tour, the battalion’s sister command, 2nd Supply Battalion, will carry on with the mission to support units operating in Afghanistan.