Yeoman Second Class Lamonte Wyche spent the past 15 months stationed in Afghanistan.

"The experience was nice," says Wyche. "I got to help the children and see the community and also the country."

But, he says there were some scary times, too.

"The bombing, twice at the front gate, which rocked the whole base."

So, Wyche is happy to come home to a luncheon that honors his work as an individually dispatched sailor - a first for the Navy. Spouses were recognized as well.

"A Navy wife is a special kind of person," says Robin Verella. "I don't think just anybody can do that."

Verella welcomed her husband home after he spent a year in Iraq. She says it was a lonely and challenging time for her family.

"Our little girl still cries sometimes and says how much she missed her daddy."

Both Wyche and Verella say they're both grateful to be back with their loved ones, and they appreciate the recognition from the Navy League.

"What an awesome feeling it was to be in a group of heroes," Navy League President J. Michael McGrath says of having lunch with 150 sailors and their families.

He covered the bill for the luncheon - the first of its kind to honor Individual Augmentees and their spouses. Plaques were presented and McGrath hopes to host more of these ceremonies across the country.

McGrath also urges you to share your gratitude with any sailor you meet.

"When you see them, say 'thank you for your service.' I think that's all they're really looking for."