16 Heartwarming Photos Of Service Members Reuniting With Their Families

As the United States closes the door on more than a decade of war and a period of remarkably high operational tempo, the burden shouldered by the troops has been well documented. But for every unit leaving for war, every casket that comes home, there's a family tethered to the fate of that soldier, airman, sailor, or Marine.

Deployments are taxing, they are long, and they are often repetitive. But eventually, they are over, and troops get to reunite with the ones they love.

We compiled some of the shots from military photographers and professional journalists alike that best capture the feeling of love and warmth when troops get to see their families again.