Seven year-old Sam and 12-year-old Gabby Duff miss a lot about their dad. "I miss him helping with my homework, "said Gabby. Their mom, Shannon says her husband has been deployed for seven months.
Soon after the F/A 18 Hornets touched down, children spilled out onto the tarmac. Upon landing Executive Officer, Gavin Duff said, "It feels great. It has been a long time and it's just nice to be back holding them.
During the deployment, the squadron played a role in the draw-down of the U.S. forces in Iraq and provided aerial support for coalition troops in Afghanistan. "Aviation is inherently dangerous, aviation on a carrier is even more so, said Commanding Officer, Kevin McLaughlin. He added, "Thank goodness we brought everyone home.
Base officials say the pilots are scheduled to deploy this winter.
