Better Late than Never : A Top Gun Homecoming

Every once in a while I am asked to photograph a homecoming for a jet squadron. Now as a CH-53 pilot's wife I can't say the jets are my favorite aircraft, but I will admit that though I love absolutely every kind of military homecoming, jet homecomings are something just a little special. With their acrobatic fly overs and the special privilege to walk right up to the aircraft and greet the Marines plane side it just makes for a truly "made for the movies" moment. Families essentially get their own private greeting with their loved one along with a spectacular background. There is just something so captivating about the whole arrangement. The moment when the fighter pilot rounds the corner around his aircraft was extra special for this family because it came after a truly LONG wait. This homecoming was originally planned for early October but just days before their expected arrival, the pilots were called to assist in another mission that would keep them until just now. Today, as all the aircraft taxied to their parking spots to allow the families to finally greet their loved ones, Captian Baskara's aircraft experienced a minor mechanical issue that required him to wait on the flightline longer than the others. Now I know waiting an additional 10 mintues may not seem like much, but when you have waited for so long (and you are 3 years old) its an entirety! Finally Daddy's jet pulled up and well the photos tell you the rest. Welcome Home VMFA-323!