USS Helena Resurfaces in San Diego
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS080731-15
Release Date: 7/31/2008 4:24:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Brian Gaines, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Helena (SSN 725) returned to Naval Base Point Loma July 30 after performing independent operations during a scheduled Western Pacific deployment.
The crew conducted various missions during their six-month underway period and received numerous accolades from their commanding officer, Cmdr. Daniel Brunk.
"The crew did an absolutely wonderful job," said Brunk. "We kept a steady 83 percent operational tempo, worked hard and kept things running smoothly. I can't say enough about the crew and their achievements."
Approximately 250 friends and family members turned out to greet the returning Sailors.
"Words cannot express the excitement I feel today," said Kerri Davis, wife of Machinist's Mate 2nd Class (SS) Jimmy Davis. "I look forward to spending time with him and for him to get to know his son."
Davis' son was born just prior to Helena's deployment.
Electronics Technician 2nd Class (SS) Carl Haines said the return to friends and family makes the challenges of being a submariner worthwhile.
"Today is one of the greatest feelings I have ever had in the Navy," Haines said. "I can't wait to spend time with my family and friends during the standdown."
Helena is the fourth Navy ship to be named after Helena, Mont. She was commissioned in 1987 and has a crew of 12 officers and 98 crew members.
For more news from Commander, Submarine Force visit www.navy.mil/local/sublant/.>
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