NORFOLK, Va. — USS Nitze returned to its home port at Naval Station Norfolk Wednesday morning. According to the Navy, the Arleigh-Burke class missile destroyer was deployed for over eight months to the 5th and 6th fleet areas.
Some families at Pier 5 have waited months to see their loved ones.
“It’s been challenging to say the least with the two little ones,” Renee Watson said while waiting for her husband.
Though, Owen Klingaman has waited even longer to see his wife.
“We’ve been separated 386 days," he said. "Dual deployments, dual military. So, I’m super excited for her to come home.”
This deployment came as a challenge for some sailors. One missed out on the birth of his son.
“I missed the entire pregnancy," Robert Heinke, a crew member aboard USS Nitze, said. "That was a little rough but now that I actually see that he’s here and holding him, I’m like, 'Holy crap, I’m a dad again!'"
They’re happy to return home after setting sail back in July.
While deployed, service personnel visited a variety of ports in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, as well as hosted US ambassadors in these nations to promote allyship and foreign relationships.
“I am incredibly proud of my crew and the excellence they achieved while conducting high-risk, high visibility mission sets during this extended deployment,” Commander Katie Jacobson, Nitze’s commanding officer, said.
Jacobson said they conducted security and drug operations. She says their main focus was strengthening allies and relationships.
“Integrating with our allies and partners throughout the world and showing U.S. resolve,” she said.
“Our officers and crew advanced maritime security at sea, served as ambassadors ashore, and seamlessly integrated with our allies and partners. They embodied our mantra of ‘Better Every Day’ and reflected superbly on the United States and the U.S. Navy.”
Jacobson said her crew has about two weeks to rest up. The sailors said most of that time will be occupied with family.
“Eat and play with the baby,” Heinke said.
“Honestly, it’s up to her," Klingaman said. "Whatever she wants to do, I’ll be there for her.”
As part of Operation Unified Takedown, USS Nitze seized $43 million worth of illegal narcotics during their patrol of the Gulf of Aden.
