TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE,Calif. -- Members of the 21st Airlift Squadron returned from a mass deployment in support of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom July 3.

Roughly 150 Airmen from the squadron were welcomed home by family, friends, fellow servicemembers and community members as they exited the aircraft.

The four-month deployment took Airmen from Travis to various locations in Southwest Asia.

The deployment supported around-the-clock C-17 missions moving troops, supplies, and equipment throughout Iraq and Afghanistan.

"We make airlift happen," said Capt. David Mittman, assistant D flight commander for the 21st AS.

The 21st AS sent a small preliminary team Feb. 21, which was responsible for setting up an area with supplies for the arrival of the squadron. The rest of the unit followed Feb. 23.

In addition to deploying pilots, loadmasters, and SARM troops, the 21st AS also received support from the 60th Operation Support Squadron who provided aircrew flight equipment and communications troops.

While deployed, the 21st AS used everything their training prepared them for including intercontinental airlift and refueling, distinguished visitor transports, aeromedical evacuations, tactical approaches and departures including night vision, semi-prepared and austere airfield operations, and transport amidst the demanding international aviation system.

During the deployment, the 21AS flew more than 4,000 sorties and over 11,000 combat hours flown, moved 142 million pounds of cargo and delivered more than 197,000 war fighters.

"The event was even more special due to the fact that they are returning on this Independence Day holiday," said Capt. Mittman. "We can take this time to remember the sacrifices of those who served before us and those who serve with us today."