BIGGS ARMY AIRFIELD, Texas -- One by one, more than 250 soldiers with the 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division deplaned at Biggs Army Airfield early Wednesday. This is the first wave of soldiers returning since the unit's deployment a year ago.

The soldiers were schedule to land at Biggs Army Airfield at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday but were delayed. Fort Bliss officials said the plane had mechanical problems. The group arrived at 2 a.m. Wednesday. A huge crowd of family members and friends waited at the military airport.

"I just want to see him and give him a big hug," said Alyssa Pleasant, who waited for her husband with a large sign in hand.

The 4-1 Cav has more than 4,000 soldiers, and all of them were deployed a year ago. Fort Bliss officials said the entire unit should be back the end of this December.

"This time it was easier in some ways because I could hear from him through the computer," said Lisa Wood who waited for her husband.

"I've been gone since last October and I got to see my family in January for a couple of weeks. After that, it's been a long waiting for this day to come," said Sgt. Jaime Rodriguez, who's wife and 3-year-old daughter picked him up.

The brigade commander will return from Iraq later this month.

Fort Bliss officials said more soldiers will arrive at Biggs Airfield on Friday and Saturday. Saturday, officials are expecting three flights with more than 800 soldiers.