While waiting for a flight in Shannon airport on Wednesday I met some American soldiers who were on their way home after thirteen months in Iraq.
As far as I know (and according to Wikipedia), soldiers using the airport are not supposed to mingle with the public, but my flight had been delayed by three hours. I was wandering in the almost-empty departures lounge when they all poured in.
I spoke with one guy for a while before having to leave to catch my flight.