Hours before Thanksgiving, a local military serviceman is back on American soil, just in time to give thanks alongside his family.
Lieutenant Commander Ken Schwalbe flew into the Fort Smith Regional Airport Wednesday night, after serving the past year in Afghanistan.
His wife, two daughter, and a large crowd of family and friends were there to greet him at the gate.
"It's great to be back for Thanksgiving this year," Lt. Commander Schwalbe said.
The family said they are eager to spend time together.
"Our youngest daughter just had her first birthday, so we're having a joint welcome home and first birthday for him on Saturday, and for her," Ken's wife, Cortney Schwalbe said.
The family is also looking forward to moving to California after the holidays.