Sunday, April 5, 2009

Last Welcome Home Daddy!

We welcomed Daddy's ship home for the last time today! They moored up right on schedule with Daddy at the conn (driving) for the last time. We were honored in front of the crew at quarters and each given certificates, one recognizing Julie's dedication and sacrifice as a CG spouse and one commemorating Dean's last underway patrol in the Coast Guard.

Tight squeeze with 40 ft of clearance to either side, Dean thread the needle between two other cutters to arrive at their berth.

Daddy with boys on the pier
Dean "conning" (or driving) the ship from the bridge wing.

Zachary running on the flight deck

Jacob and Daddy looking over the side of the ship

After collecting Dean we spent the sunny day at Busch Gardens.

Jacob sharing the roller coaster with Daddy
Zack loves to wave!

4 comments:

Unknown said...

Glad to see you made it home, Dean. Pop and I are so glad that you won't have to leave Julie and the boys for long periods of time anymore but we do want you to know how much we do appreciate your service to our country. Thank you. We're happy for all of you. Love, Nana/Mom

Martha Compton said...

Welcome home, Dean!

Sara Hopper said...

Deano,

Congratulations and welcome home! I echo what my parents said and thank you for your service to our country. We're all so proud of you! I know Julie and the boys are so glad to have you home. Go and enjoy this time with them! I can't wait to see you soon. - Sara

Bill and Martina said...

Great job bringing the ship in for the last time-loved the picture of the three cutters. You have been an amazing CG officer and I can hardly wait to see what the Lord has planned for you now. We are so glad to have you home and can hardly wait to see you and Julie and the boys. Love you lots and lots-Mom