Smith has been in Afghanistan for 10 months and hasn't seen his father or sister, who live in Chicago, for more than a year and half. The 37-year-old was just promoted to major.
"Thank you! I appreciate it. It has been a long time coming," Major Smith said when congratulated by his father and sister, Danielle.
"I do miss my family and wish I could be home because I know I am out here doing good things, it does not hurt as much," Major Smith said.
Major Smith is an aviation supply officer. He said, "I make sure all the parts are here for the aircraft to fly."
Major Smith graduated from Fenger High School and University of Illinois Champaign Urbana. He's been in the military for almost 20 years.
"I am in my 19 and a half year mark. I am going to stay a little bit longer to get more responsibility," Major Smith said.
His father, David Smith Sr., said it wouldn't surprise him if the major continues longer than that. He said, "From what I am looking at, it looks like he is going to be a colonel. He will be there that long."
"That was wonderful. It looks like he lost weight. It was wonderful to see him, the smile and everything," sister Danielle Smith said.
Major Smith said he eventually wants to be a househusband and can't wait to spend more time with his family. His wife and children live in North Carolina.
