Deployment – the dreaded D word. With the Navy you never know for sure. Six months, nine months, sometimes a year. No communication on a submarine, only sparse communication on a ship if they are lucky. They typically aren’t shortened, but it always seems like they get extended. These sailors and their families sacrifice precious time to protect you and I. All day, ever day. The Navy never sleeps.
I was lucky enough to join Nicole and her baby girl, Mckenzie, while awaiting the arrival of their very special Naval officer (I would tell you his rank, but for the life of me I can’t remember if even asked – it was an exciting day, ok?!). The morning of the homecoming it was sleeting, raining, and freezing. A miserable combination, but we were lucky enough that it cleared up by the afternoon. The arrival time changed twice. It got pushed back and then got moved back up. Hurry up and wait, we get it.
As we waited for the sub to dock completely and for protocol to be finished, I looked around at the excitement and smiles on the family members. I was surrounded by babies, toddlers, and big kids, too. I can’t imagine all the memories that were made while their daddies were away at sea (all male submarine). We are talking Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, and first days of school. I know before my husband joined, I never thought about what REAL sacrifices went into the job description. Now my heart is constantly reminded to always, always, always be thankful for these men and women. If you haven’t thanked a service member lately, you really should.
You can see the raw emotion and excitement in these pictures. You can see that this baby girl has no clue her daddy is almost back, but before long her whole life will be back to normal. You can see love and joy. You can see sacrifice and commitment to this country. Deployments really suck, but homecomings… those are some of the most amazing moments that I really want you to see.
Enjoy this blog guys!! Give the George family some love. They are finally reunited after six months!! xoxo
