USS Vicksburg returns home

Sailors return to Naval Station Mayport after 7-month deployment

MAYPORT, Fla. – It was a happy homecoming Saturday for more than 300 sailors onboard the U.S.S. Vicksburg and their families.

The sailors returned to Naval Station Mayport after a seven-month deployment. They spent time in 11 countries helping train others

People cheered as the U.S.S. Vicksburg docked. They gathered with signs, smiles, and some tears. It's the first time Ronnie Byrd, is meeting his son Blake Byrd.

"It's great to be back. I'm amazed. I'm so happy to be back. I'm at a loss for words," Ronnie Byrd said.

For the rest of his family, his return means good things.

"It feels great. Glad he's home," Madinah Byrd said.

"We'll be eating out. We'll be having fun, enjoying the rest of the summer," Vaugh Floyd said.

The sailors were in the Mediterranean, Black, North and Baltic Seas. They also volunteered nearly 700 hours in 11 countries refurbishing parks, schools and community centers.

The sailors traveled 30,000 nautical miles while they were away.

Jordan Queen is meeting his son, Colton Queen, for the first time.

"It's fantastic. Seven months away seeing him from the computer. It's nice to finally be able to hold him," Jordan Queen said.

And the rest of Jordan Queen's family is glad he's back.

"I get help, I get help and I'm ready," Monica Queen said.

The sailors will enjoy some rest and relaxation with their families. Then they'll do some more training. Their next deployment could be within the year.