SFC Soneniranh Johnson, U.S. Army (2006-Present)

One of my favorite memories of returning home after a long deployment was the moment I marched into the gymnasium and saw the faces of my loved ones, friends, and the Rear Detachment all clapping and cheering for us. It was such a proud and emotional moment that I had to hold back my tears. After being away for 15 months in Iraq on my first deployment, the feeling of finally stepping back into a safe and familiar place was overwhelming.

As a military police soldier, my deployment was filled with a lot of uncertainty and worry. Every day on patrol came with its own challenges, and there was always that thought in the back of my mind would I live to see another day? Iraq was a harsh environment, and the experiences that I had there changed me. From the long days, the stress, and the responsibility of the mission were a lot to bear, especially knowing that my family was back home waiting and praying for my safe return. That s what made the moment in the gym so powerful. Hearing the applause, seeing the smiles, and feeling the energy of people who cared about us reminded me that we were never truly alone, even while so far away. My family s faces stood out to me most. They had been worrying and missing me for so long, and finally, there we were all together again. In that moment, the weight of those 15 months were lifted, and I felt an a big sense of relief and gratitude. It wasn t just about coming home in one piece, it was about knowing that I had made it through something so difficult and that the people I loved were still right there supporting me. The pride I felt marching into that gym wasn t just personal, it was shared by everyone in the room. That welcome home reminded me why I serve and why family and community are so important. I will always remember that day. Definitely a core memory and one of the most special moments of my life.

Read the Military Memories of our Runner-Ups.