JACKSONVILLE, Fla — Today more than 300 sailors returned home to Naval Station Mayport as the U.S.S the Sullivans docked.
Loved ones reunited after a long-awaited back-to-back deployment. Family and friends gathered at Naval Station Mayport with open arms and tears of joy.
“It’s surreal,” said Channie Jones.
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“This means everything to me,” said Juliette Dozier.
Juliette Dozier came with poster in hand, waiting for her son’s arrival. She said this is a special moment.
“I can really celebrate him and let him know that I’m celebrating him for everything’s he’s done for his country for his family and how much I love him,” said Dozier.
Today marked the end of several missions in the Middle East.
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“I’m ready- just to have him home, doing normal stuff, you know, being there for everyday life,” said Jones.
The ship traveled on three back-to-back deployments, and now its back at Naval Station Mayport.
The crew navigated over 29,000 nautical miles to help ensure maritime security and stability in the middle east.
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The commanding officer of U.S.S the Sullivans said they had some complex operations, but the team handled it really well.
“The team came together and crushed it from start to finish,” said James Diefenderfer. “Really proud of them. Glad that they’re getting to see their families today. Its fantastic to be home.”
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