SALT LAKE CITY — It was a joyful reunion at the Air National Guard base in Salt Lake City as dozens of airmen returned home from a three-month mission to the Middle East.

KSL-TV was there Sunday afternoon as families and friends watched the skies for the arrival of their loved ones.

“We’ve been counting down since before he even left,” one wife said.

Three KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft, carrying more than 100 members of the 151st Air Refueling Wing, landed at the Roland R. Wright Air National Guard Base.

Officials said another plane is expected to arrive Monday afternoon.

The airmen are returning home from a three-month deployment in support of Operations Inherent Resolve, Freedom’s Sentinel and Spartan Shield in the Arab country of Qatar.

“Oh my gosh, we’ve been so excited and this baby looks so different,” said Malia Gal. “So excited for him to be able to hold him and not see him on a screen.”

A great day that makes the service all worthwhile.

“Just joyful moments,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Larsen with the Air National Guard. “We are grateful for their service to their country, we are grateful for their citizenship to this state, and we are just happy to have them home.”