ALTOONA, BLAIR COUNTY - About 4,000 soldiers in the 56th Stryker Brigade are on their way home from Iraq,  about 700 of them are from our area. Some soldiers could be back as early as next week, but no later than the end of September. For some they are just a few hours away from home at Fort Dix in New Jersey.

This is a very emotional time for many of these military families, like the Shunk family. For them these next few days can’t go fast enough.

Brian Shunk is just days away from being reunited with his wife, Alexis, his kids, and his dog, Cola. Brian is a Specialist from Altoona, who has been fighting in Iraq for nearly a year. This isn't his first time away from home since being in the service for 15 years, but it doesn't get any easier when he goes, especially for the kids.

Alexis says they knew Brian was shipping out, but it didn't hit them hard until he was on the bus last September pulling out of the Frankstown Armory. The family uses email and a Blackberry to keep in touch. And, when times get really tough, they turn to prayer.

When 10-year-old Brianna feels far from her dad she has a special doll to keep him close. She and her brother are proud of their dad; they say he's tough; he's brave, and a hero.

Brian has already re-enlisted, and has another five years in the service.

If you have a special story about a soldier in the 56th Stryker Brigade or their family, you may email Erin Calandra here.