A C-17 Globemaster III is sprayed by firetrucks upon its return to Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, March 14, 2026. The water salute is a time-honored tradition honoring aircrew following a deployment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Regan Enriquez)

U.S. Air Force Airmen and family members hold a welcome home banner for returning 16th Airlift Squadron Airmen at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, March 20, 2026. The redeployment highlights the squadron’s continued commitment to global mobility and mission readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Carl Good)

A 437th Airlift Squadron Airman and 16th Airlift Squadron family members marshal in a C-17 Globemaster III carrying Airmen returning from deployment at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, March 19, 2026. The return highlights the unit’s continued commitment to delivering rapid global mobility and supporting operations worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Regan Enriquez)

Excited family members run to greet 16th Airlift Squadron Airmen returning from deployment at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, March 14, 2026. The return highlights the unit’s continued commitment to delivering rapid global mobility and supporting operations worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Regan Enriquez)

A U.S. Air Force 16th Airlift Squadron Airman embraces family members after returning from deployment at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, March 20, 2026. Throughout the deployment, Airmen sustained high-tempo operations, delivering critical cargo and personnel in support of joint and coalition forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Carl Good)

A 16th Airlift Squadron Airman reunites with her loved ones after a deployment at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, March 14, 2026. The return highlights the unit’s continued commitment to delivering rapid global mobility and supporting operations worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Regan Enriquez)

16th Airlift Squadron Airmen head home following a deployment at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, March 14, 2026. The return highlights the unit’s continued commitment to delivering rapid global mobility and supporting operations worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Regan Enriquez)