This time last week my brother, Matt, returned from an 8 month long deployment. He flies for the Navy and has been on the USS Lincoln. This deployment was only supposed to be 5 months, but was extended another 3 months from May. I had not seen him since November (when I was exactly 4 weeks away from having Annie). And he left exactly 1 week before she was born. So, it really felt like he was gone a long time this go around!
First sighting of the ship!
The homecoming was in Norfolk, VA. Thanks to my rock star sister-in-law, Natalie, I used a buddy pass and flew up for a very quick 24 hours to join the celebration.
These pictures do not do justice for how enormous the ship is. Puts a cruise ship to shame. Typically, there are 20ish jets on the deck as well, but those had all been flown back to the west coast.
Natalie (below) getting excited as we see the ship
This was quite a moment when the ship finally pulled in, sailors seeing the crowds, American flag is flying, patriotic music playing, and families shouting with excitement to see their loved ones.
This is really an event everyone should attend at some point in their lives. Even if you never have a friend or family member to welcome home, it is an incredible picture of the sacrifices these men, women, and families make for our country. While we waited to see Matt, it was amazing to watch all these families reunite with their dads, spouses, etc. We were just in tears seeing the happy occasions.
Natalie and her mom
Matt up on the deck waving!
The sign Caroline made for him
Welcome home brother!
The welcome home crew
G, mom, Natalie, me, and Debbie
Matt's friends who were there too.
A wonderful celebratory dinner all together that night!
So glad I was able to be a part of this special day.
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