American soldiers crowd the deck of a troop transport in this poignant photograph, captioned 'first sight of home' by its original owner. Likely taken during the return voyage of U.S. troops from service in the Philippine-American War (1899-1902), the image captures the anticipation of homecoming after an arduous overseas deployment. The soldiers' wide-brimmed campaign hats and service uniforms are typical of the U.S. Army's dress during operations in the Philippines at the turn of the 20th century. Project: 218497