USS The Sullivans Returns to Mayport
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS090419-03
Release Date: 4/19/2009 5:04:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean M. Allen
MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- Mayport, Fla—Family and friends of Sailors stationed aboard the USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) gathered at Naval Station Mayport on April 18 to welcome the crew home after a seven-month deployment.
During The Sullivans' deployment, the ship provided support for U.S. and coalition forces operating in Afghanistan. Additionally, the ship helped strengthen relationships with regional navies and helped keep sea lanes safe for peaceful use. The Sullivans deployed with the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group.
The Sullivans' had the honor of participating in the first Navy monument dedication in Normandy, France, an event that was attended by several World War II Sailors from the Jacksonville area.
The festivities kicked off shortly after the ship arrived, when new fathers were the first to leave the ship to greet babies born during their deployment. Damage Controlman 3rd Class (SW) Jordan Radford was among those new dads.
"This is a great moment. I am excited to be home and see my son for the first time," Radford said.
The next Sailors to leave the ship were Chief Quartermaster (SW) Jay Ortiz and Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Jason Taylor. The two won a drawing for the "first kiss" competition and were met on the pier by their wives.
After the new fathers, and first kisses, the remainder of the crew stepped off the ship's brow one by one to greet their family and friends.
"This is an important day for us. Family has gathered from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia to be here today," said Brandy Thompson, wife of the ship's Supply Officer Lt. Douglas Thompson.
The destroyer is named in honor of the five Sullivan brothers, who were killed when the ship they were assigned to, USS Juneau (CL-52) was sunk on November 13, 1942.
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