Kevin Heuman poses for a family picture at his welcome home party in Egg Harbor Township Friday, Feb. 10. Pictured from left are his wife, Samantha, holding daughter Zoey, 1; Kevin holding son Julius, 2; brother Alex, 20; sister Caitlyn, 8; brother Timmy, 10; mom Dianna; dad Bruce and grandparents Louis and Billie Ireland.

EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP – Army Spc. Kevin Heuman, 23, returned home to Egg Harbor Township after a 14-month tour in Afghanistan. Family and friends gathered on Friday, Feb. 10 at the home of Heuman’s parents to celebrate his homecoming.

Heuman’s wife Samantha, 21, originally from Kansas; his son Julius, 2, and daughter Zoey, 1, were by his side as he was greeted and congratulated.

“It feels great to be home with my family and my kids,” Heuman said, as he held his daughter who was wearing a “Daddy’s Little Sweetie” T-shirt.

During the time Heuman spent in Afghanistan he was awarded the Army Achievement Medal, in recognition of outstanding achievement or praiseworthy service; and the Army Good Conduct Medal, awarded for completing three consecutive years.

The pride that Heuman has given his family was evident. His parents’ home is decorated with patriotic stars and red, white and blue decor.

His mother, Dianna, beamed with joy at the return home of her eldest son.

“I’m thrilled that he got home safe,” she said. “I’m really proud of him, and I’m impressed with his choices, that he chose to do this for his country.”

He has made his family proud.

“Kevin joining the Army was like flipping a switch in him from boy to man,” said Kevin’s grandpa, Louis Ireland, 70 of Egg Harbor Township, said.

Bruce Heuman said that he and his wife prayed a lot for their son’s safety.

“We really relied a lot on God,” Bruce Heuman said.

His mom is impressed by the sacrifice he and his fellow soldiers make every day.

“We are really excited about what he is doing. We want to make a big deal about Kevin, but we wish we could honor every young man and woman. This is their choice,” Dianna Heuman said.

“These guys leave their families behind and they do it willingly because they feel that they have a higher calling to serve their country. It is amazing.”

The Egg Harbor Township High School graduate said he will be in town for 10 days before departing for Ft. Riley in Junction City, Kan.

In June, Heuman will report to Ft. Stewart in Hinesville, Ga. for a year.

Army Spc. Kevin Heuman, home after his 14-month tour of duty in Afghanistan, holds his daughter Zoey upon his return home.