Nikki Haley expressed heartfelt relief and joy as she welcomed her husband, Maj. Michael Haley, back to the United States following his completion of a deployment with the South Carolina National Guard.
Sharing her sentiments on the social media platform X, Haley described the moment as one of immense gratitude and relief after a long and challenging year apart.
She expressed thankfulness for her husband’s safe return and the culmination of a year-long prayer, accompanying her message with photos capturing the heartwarming reunion between Michael, herself, and their children, who eagerly awaited his homecoming with a “Welcome Back Dad” sign in hand.
Maj. Michael Haley served as a staff officer with the 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade in the Horn of Africa during his deployment, a commitment that kept him away from his family for an extended period.
His absence coincided with a juncture in Nikki Haley’s life, occurring during her GOP presidential run before she finally withdrew from the race the previous month.
The Haley family bid farewell to Michael during a poignant ceremony at The Citadel, a prestigious military college in Charleston, back in June 2023. Throughout her political career, Michael had been a steadfast supporter, accompanying Nikki on the campaign trail during her previous bids for office.
However, his absence this time prompted insensitive comments from former President Trump, who callously questioned his whereabouts during campaign events.
Trump’s remarks elicited widespread criticism, with Haley herself condemning the disrespect shown towards military families. She emphasized that such disregard for their sacrifices was unbecoming of a commander-in-chief, highlighting the profound commitment and sacrifices made by service members and their loved ones.