FORT BRAGG -- More than 200 families reunited with the soldiers they love, some for the first time in nine months, on Monday.

The Fort Bragg paratroopers were serving overseas in Afghanistan, advising and assisting the Afghan Army. 

"It's surreal," said Warrant Officer Derrick Meyer. "I'm just completely excited to have these two [kids]in my arms and my lovely wife over here. It's overwhelming."

"It's really exciting to be able to come home and see my daughter," said Spc. Elijah Cabrera. "I didn't get to meet her. She's got a personality now. I miss my wife and my family. I'm just glad to finally be back."

At least three more flights full of 82nd Airborne Division paratroopers will also be retuning home this week.