For about 500 loved ones and friends, the hours long wait at Sheridan Fitness Center for their soldiers last Friday morning was worth it.

To while away the time, individuals checked text messages, kids bounced and kicked beach balls and babies did the only smart thing - sleep.

But finally the wait ended.

Led by Col. David Funk and Command Sgt. Maj. Alan Bjerke, approximately 200 soldiers assigned to the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT), 2nd Infantry Division's command team, returned home.

The brigade deployed in August 2009 to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the brigade served at forward operating bases throughout the Diyala province.

This deployment was the third for the brigade, which has the distinction of being the first Stryker brigade to ever deploy.

The bulk of the brigade returned during July.  By the end of this week, the majority of the unit's approximate 3,900 soldiers will have returned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Eight soldiers gave the last full measure during the tour of duty.

"It was a much more complex but less deadly environment," said Funk.  "We've achieved some closure there."

Funk pointed to the return of normalcy to the Diyala province.

"It was a bombed out area," continued Funk.  "Now there are over 2,000 thriving businesses; and it is ready for the Iraqis to take the lead."

Bjerke pointed out that the love and support of family members sustained the brigade.

"The families had their own deployment of their own; their help was crucial," he said.  "It is very emotional to come through those doors, a great feeling."

Bjerke was hardly alone in his feeling of happiness to be home.

"I am really, really happy he's home," said Julie Melville as she waited for her husband, Sgt. Kendrick Melville, 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment.

Melville said she had bought her husband a number of gifts, but that there is one that he would receive as soon as he got home.

"There's a bar of Irish Spring soap for him in the shower," said Melville. "It was his only request, but most of all I'm just glad he's finally home."