Family members and friends of Sailors assigned to Coastal Riverine Squadron (CRS) 4 welcomed home their loved ones at Naval Air Station Norfolk from a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 4th, 5th, and 6th Fleet areas of operations, Jan. 21.

During the deployment, 325 Sailors conducted 227 high-value asset (HVA) escorts, and eight missions in support of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command priorities.

"There is nothing like a deployment homecoming, and our Sailors and their families have earned this much-anticipated reunion," said Cmdr. Mark Harris, commanding officer, CRS-4. "They have been selflessly serving their country under very challenging conditions, and we have been successful because of their determination, professionalism, and 'can-do' spirit."

During their deployment, CRS-4 was the first squadron to operationally employ the Mark VI Patrol Boats in U.S. 5th Fleet. Two MK VI patrol boats, designed and built by American boat manufacturer Safe Boats International, arrived at the 5th Fleet base of operations in Bahrain in March 2016.

CRS 4's Command Ombudsman Aubrey Stalcup attended the homecoming to help reunite Sailors with their families.

"I have attended many homecomings as an ombudsman and as a family member, and they truly never get old," said Stalcup, who added a few of the dads were reunited with their new sons and daughters. "All around it was great to see the families be reunited and to really appreciate what our Sailors do for their country."

Harris added he drew inspiration during their deployment seeing his Sailors in action every day, accomplishing the Coastal Riverine Force mission.

"They make me proud to serve, and seeing their character makes me optimistic about our country's future," said Harris. "I would like to thank our families who have sacrificed so much to support their Sailors while they defend our country."

CRS-4 falls under Coastal Riverine Group 2, which is headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. The primary mission of the Coastal Riverine Force is to conduct maritime security operations across all phases of military operations by defending high-value assets, critical maritime infrastructure, ports and harbors both inland and on coastal waterways against enemies and when commanded conduct offensive combat operations.

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For more news from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/.