Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree

I wanted to take a break in my Egypt series, “What you won’t see in the travel brochures”, to bring you this special story I've entitled, "Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree". The classic song, originally performed by Tony Orlando and Dawn in 1973, reached #1 on billboard charts for four weeks in a row. The song has origins dating back to the civil war when ladies would wear a yellow ribbon in their hair signifying their devotion to their loved one serving in the US Calvary.

Destiny contacted me some time back and wanted me photograph Austin's homecoming from his deployment. Austin is a Corporal in the United States Marine Corp, assigned to 1st Battalion 1st Marines, and stationed at Camp Pendleton California. Due to security concerns specifics as to his exact return date and time are not divulged till the last minute. Even as late as 9:30 the night before, Destiny was giving me updates as to when he would be home.

The old adage that a picture speaks a thousand words truly applies here. So here are some images I captured as Alpha Company returned home from their 7 month overseas deployment.

Trees throughout the area are decorated with Yellow Ribbons

Destiny awaiting Austin's return

Alpha Company marches in absolute pricision on to the parade deck to their awaiting families

Destiny and Austin reunited

Do you think she will ever let go?

A mom reunites with her son

A young father holds his son for the first time

Brother and girlfriend reunited

Another beautiful couple reunited

And another...