USS Norfolk Returns Home to Namesake City
The fast-attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714) returned home to friends and family in Norfolk, Va., May 7 after a successful six-month deployment as part of the USS Nassau (LHA 4) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG). Norfolk played a crucial role as the only submarine assigned to the ESG. Norfolk brought stealth, endurance, mobility, agility and persistence while executing multimission tasking in direct support of the global war on terrorism.“I’m blessed to have a crew filled with tremendously talented Sailors,” said Cmdr. Scott Adams, Norfolk’s commanding officer. “Their performance throughout the deployment was nothing short of spectacular.” Equipped with the latest technology, Norfolk delivered time-sensitive information to national and military decision makers, contributing significantly to the nation’s security. Deployed primarily to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, Norfolk conducted operations in support of U.S. Central Command objectives. Norfolk’s crew of highly trained submarine warriors achieved excellence while executing tasking under demanding circumstances. “Faced with a number of challenges on a daily basis, they (Norfolk’s crew) did what they do best - accomplished the mission while taking care of the ship and their shipmates,” said Adams.
The submarine has a strong relationship with the men and women of the City of Norfolk. Norfolk Tides Baseball team mascot, Rip Tide, joined the large group of family and friends gathered on pier 3 to welcome the crew as they stepped off the submarine. Also on hand representing Mayor Paul Fraim was Ron Keys, assistant city manager and a retired Navy captain. “It’s a great pleasure to be able to welcome this fantastic warship back,” Keys said. “The city is proud to be represented by USS Norfolk, and we’re thankful for the crew’s service to our nation.” “We value the ties to this great city and look forward to playing an active role as members of the community as we resume local operations,” said Adams. source: NavNews From Commander, U.S. Naval Submarine Forces Public Affairs