NAS JAX, Fla. – War Eagles Patrol Squadron VP-16 returned home to Naval Air Station Jacksonville after a six-month deployment on Sunday.
The sailors were stationed on U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Center Command Areas of Responsibility, providing intelligence, surveillance, and more.
Families were anxiously awaiting for the War Eagles to return home.
“It almost feels like so much time has passed, and then no time has passed at all, but I’m very excited,” Holly Sayers said, who was greeting her husband Ian.
Megan Gulyard was greeting her husband, Malcolm.
“I’m just like, this is actually my first homecoming not pregnant, so it’s like nice to be not pregnant, and just so excited to have him home,” Gulyard said. “It’s been a long six months.”
Gulyard has been through five deployments with her husband Malcolm, welcoming him home after 190 days. The fellow military families brought their creative bouquets and signs awaiting the plane landing, all leading up to the warm embraces and relief.
“I’m ready to go to Juicy Crab and get some good American food and go to the beach and just spend time with my family, that’s what I’ve been looking forward to,” Malcolm Gulyard said.
Aidan Reilly attended as a supporter. His father is still away from home, but his family dedicated their time attending these homecomings because they know how difficult it can be to miss a loved one, but they also know how joyous it is to reunite.
“The best thing about it is at least you’ll get to celebrate when he comes home. That’s even more excitement,” Reilly said.
Executive Officer Jacob Weinzatl expressed gratitude to his team.
“My team’s excellent,” Weinzatl said. “So, couldn’t do what we do without each and every single person in this squadron.”
VP-16 flew over 3,100 hours and executed over 400 sorties.
