Norfolk, Va. (WTKR)- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul returned to Naval Station Norfolk Monday.
The destroyer deployed in April in support of ballistic missile defense, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 4th, 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.
Paris Smith, a student at Hampton University, was on the pier to welcome her brother home.
"I am so excited. I didn't know if he was going to make it home for Christmas so I am very excited that they are actually pulling in today," she told NewsChannel 3's Todd Corillo Monday.
Lieutenant j.g. Ian Guagliardo became a father just eight days before deploying with the USS McFaul in April.
His daughter Camden is now eight months old and was waiting for him on the pier alongside his wife Marie.
"It feels great. She was so small when I left," he commented.
During the deployment, the USS McFaul steamed 42,500 nautical miles, conducted 33 replenishments-at-sea, participated in seven community relations projects in five different countries and 14 Sailors became fathers.
Previous Coverage:
USS McFaul departs Naval Station Norfolk on independent deployment
