BANGOR – A large banner hangs at the Countrywide Home Loan’s office at 20 State St., Bangor. It says “Welcome Home Steve!” as families and colleagues celebrate the safe return from Iraq of home loan consultant and Staff Sgt. Steve Campbell – employee, colleague, husband, father, brother and friend to many. But Campbell shares the spotlight with his wife of 19 years, Patricia Campbell.

In May 2004, Steve’s sister, Carolyn Campbell, regional sales manager for Countrywide Home Loans, recruited Steve from another loan firm. He quickly became one of the company’s top producers. That September, he was notified that his Guard unit was being activated and sent to Iraq.

“I kept trying to think positively,” said Patricia Campbell. “What’s one year in the whole scheme of life?” This perspective kept her and the children going.

In addition to the emotional turmoil of having her husband away, Patricia experienced the financial burdens military families often suffer. When a military salary is compared to a high-income sales position, the result can be devastating to the family.

But with the support of the Countrywide corporate office, manager Carolyn Campbell, Steve’s customers, and a loving family, Patricia stepped into Steve’s job. With training and determination, she went to work as a loan officer.

“Looking back now,” she said, “I have been truly blessed. I would never have taken on this career no matter how many opportunities I had been given, had I not been faced with Steve’s situation. I have learned and grown so much and now have a successful, lucrative career in a great industry.”

Steve returned home Aug. 31 to his wife and two children, Caitlin and Patrick, sister Carolyn, family members and Countrywide colleagues and customers.

“Life is very different after a year at war,” Steve said.

Patricia will continue in her role as home loan consultant, with Steve as her partner – both at home and in the office.