Military

Pacific Northwest Welcomes Back USS John C. Stennis

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070904-07
Release Date: 9/4/2007 3:59:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Maebel Tinoko, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Northwest

BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) returned to its homeport at Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton, Aug. 31.

More than 4,000 family members and friends gathered on the pier to greet the Sailors returning from the eight month deployment. The crowd held up home-made banners and waved American flags as the ship pulled into Bremerton’s Delta Pier.

“I am so proud of what the Navy does for our country and it is important to show the Sailors we support them through deployments,” said the mother of Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Nicholas Davies. “I couldn’t wait to see my son come off the ship. I am very happy that he returned home safe. Our family has missed him immensely and we can’t wait to be able to spend time with him again.”

After liberty call was announced, thousands of crew members began exiting the ship and fell into the arms of loved ones on the pier. For some Sailors, the ship’s return will be the first time for them to be at their new home.

“I have never been on a ship before and this will be my new home,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Airman Genesis Lozano. “I can’t wait to experience life at sea and learn what the Navy is all about.”

For most Sailors, returning from deployment means vacation time from the busy shipboard life.

“It feels great to finally be back,” said Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Francis Gonzalez. “After a long deployment, taking a vacation to Puerto Rico with my wife is in the plan.”

For other Sailors, returning home is a memorable reunion for friends and family members.

“I am so happy to be reunited with my wonderful wife and kids,” said Interior Communications Electrician Fireman (SW) Greg Savage. “Being apart for so long, it just feels good to be back in touch with loved ones.”