Airman stationed in California returns home to Vidalia for family’s 50th reunion

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - An airman arrived at the Savannah Hilton Head Airport on Tuesday, reuniting with her mother and brother ahead of her family’s 50th reunion.

Crystal Boyd, a Miles for Military recipient, was greeted by her mother, Kimberly Brantley, and her brother, Christian Boyd. The program allows airmen to return home through extra volunteer work.

‘I don’t have favorites’

“Seeing all of my family members, I don’t have favorites. I’m excited to see everyone,” Crystal said.

Brantley said the reunion carries weight beyond the weekend gathering.

“Anytime I get the chance to see her it’s really overwhelming,” Brantley said.

“I’m really glad she’s coming back,” her brother Christian said.

A family history rooted in the South

The reunion marks 50 years since the family first gathered following the death of Brantley’s grandfather in 1976.

“When my grandfather died back in 1976, him being the patriarch of the family brought everyone back home,” Brantley said. “They vowed to never let death be the only reason they gather again.”

Brantley recalled her grandfather picking cotton in the early 1900s to feed his family. She said the family’s trajectory since then has been significant.

“It’s just amazing to know where we come from, now we come back and we have Harvard law graduates, we have doctors,” Brantley said.

“It means a lot to be able to come down for the family reunion this year, especially for my family to be here,” Crystal said.

250 expected to attend

Brantley said this year’s reunion is expected to welcome around 250 people. Having Crystal present carries added significance given her military service.

“It’s a little bit scary sometimes when you turn on the news and you see the things that are going on but to be able to know that even with all that going on, that she’s here and has the opportunity to come home and we get a chance to see her is wonderful,” Brantley said.

Crystal said she is not the only member of her family currently serving, noting that several relatives are also on active duty.