VP-10 'Red Lancers' return home after 6-month deployment

Family, friends gather for homecoming at NAS Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A tarmac full of friends and family of the "Red Lancers" of Patrol Squadron (VP) 10 finally got word Friday afternoon that their military heroes were coming in for a landing at NAS Jacksonville after six months in the western Pacific.

Standing strong in the face of gusty winds, loved ones held tightly to homemade signs, displays of freedom and pride.

Not too long ago, Raynard was returning home from his Army deployment and into Ashley Walker's arms.

"I thought it would be easier being on the other side of the ceremony," Raynard said. "It's still hard being away from people that you love."

"It's not easy at all. It's never easy," Walker said. "Even though we've been through it before, it's not easy."

Other families, such as the Manascos, echo that sentiment.

"This homecoming never gets old," Sean Manasco said. "It's always a good feeling to finally be back, be around family."