ALEXANDRIA, La. – Members of the 1086th Transportation Company of the Louisiana Army National Guard, based in Vidalia, are back on the ground in the United States.

The troops landed at about 10:20 a.m. today at the former England Air Force Base outside Alexandria.

The troops left shortly after 9 a.m. Tuesday, making several stops along the way.

The men and women seemed overcome upon getting out of the plane – remarking on the humidity and the smell of pine trees that told them they were back in Louisiana.

“It feels great to be home – different to say the least, but great,” Francis Duncan of Ferriday said.

At 1:30 p.m., the troops will be able to visit with their families.

“It’s wonderful to be back,” said Spc. Jennifer Lyles of Newellton.

Members of the 1086th had been serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom since March.

The troops will be home in Vidalia next Tuesday. On Friday, town officials will meet to discuss final plans for a formal homecoming for the group.