PORTSMOUTH, NH- Upon returning from duty in Afghanistan Thursday morning dozens of troops were greeted by well-wishers they never met before.

When arriving at Pease International Airbase as part of their journey home, the soldiers were greeted by the group known as the “Pease Greeters” a group that’s been present for deployments and welcome home celebrations since 2005.

When asked what he thought of those willing to wait just to say thank you and show of support in welcoming soldiers home Air force Col. J.D. Bailey said “It’s just outstanding”.

As for why the all-volunteer group shows up not just to welcome service men and women home but as they leave for deployment   Pease Greeter Charles Cove said, “These guys are all volunteers, they go over, come back, they deploy, they come back, they never complain. They take care of us, we love them all”.