‘‘Operation Welcome Home” greets troops returning from Global War on Terrorism deployments at Baltimore-Washington International Airport Nov. 10. USNA photo by MCSN Matthew A. Ebarb.

Operation Welcome Home began as a grassroots project in March when 100 volunteers turned out to greet the troops at BWI, and their numbers have grown to nearly 500. Since its founding, the Operation Welcome Home volunteers have greeted more than 2,500 service members. BWI is the largest receiving hub for incoming flights from the GWOT theater of operations.

''The majority of the troops arriving at BWI airport have other connections to catch and are not expecting a hero’s welcome in Baltimore. It’s an incredible surprise for all of them,'' said Kathy Thorp, co-chair of Operation Welcome Home and a reserve Navy Captain. ''They are so grateful that we are there, and it is a moving experience for all involved. It’s our goal, in collaboration with BWI administration, to greet every flight back from theater with a well-deserved homecoming.''

Recently, the Midshipman Action Group (MAG) joined the crowd, handing out bags of snacks and bottles of water to the returning troops.

''It’s an amazing honor for us, especially since one day we could be in their shoes,'' said Midn. 4⁄C Alex Craven. ''Seeing this and doing this motivates me even more to prepare myself so I can serve. These guys have been gone for months on end. It means a lot just to be able to shake their hands and welcome them back.''

Volunteers and volunteer organizations learn about these homecoming events via e-mails passed along through various church and community groups, Scout groups, and political clubs around the state.

''Through MAG we were able to get Midshipmen out to see what the face of the Navy really looked like. MAG facilitated them in seeing what they’re going to look like coming home five years from now,'' said Lt. Joe Campbell, MAG officer representative. ''I remember coming home from deployment and what a sight it was to see my family there alongside fellow service members, veterans, and grateful Americans saying ‘welcome home.’ I’m glad to be able to do this for them.''

Operation Welcome Home is open to all interested individuals and civic organizations. For information, visit www.operationwelcomehomemd.org.

''It’s an overwhelming presence we have here. They’re not expecting it and it’s an emotional experience for everyone,'' said John Flynn, co-chair of Operation Welcome Home. ''We encourage people to sign up and come experience one of our future events for themselves.''