By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Maebel Tinoko, Fleet Public Affairs Det. Northwest
BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) pulled into its new homeport at Bremerton's Delta Pier on Naval Base (NB) Kitsap, Nov. 29.
Emory S. Land moved to Bremerton from La Maddalena, Italy, to utilize NB Kitsap's overhaul facilities. The ship will be transformed and renovated to a hybrid Military Sealift Command (MSC) ship in the future.
"I am glad to be back in the states and excited about our new homeport," said Machinist's Mate Fireman Brian Clark. "I can't wait to explore what the Northwest has to offer, especially because I love camping and hunting. The Navy has provided me an opportunity to experience both the East and West Coast."
The ship hosted a "Tiger Cruise" for approximately 90 friends and family members as the ship transited from Naval Magazine Indian Island, Wash., to Bremerton.
"The Tiger Cruise is a great way for families to see what their Sailors are doing out there on the ship and experience what ship life is like," said Amanda Gustin, tiger cruise participant. "I am proud of the Navy and I am glad they are finally home from deployment just in time for the holidays."
The ship's Sailors have been waiting for this change of homeport for months. Emory S. Land left Italy after eight years of providing mobile fleet support to submarines and surface ships in the 6th Fleet area of responsibility.
"I am happy about the change in duty location and I look forward to exploring the different places around Washington," said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/SS/AW) Chris Durbin. "I have a couple friends stationed in Bangor and it will be a reunion for me and some submariners I've served with."
"I am ready to finally see what the Navy is all about because I have never been stationed on a ship before," said Seaman Emily Hill upon checking in aboard Emory S. Land. "I am excited the ship is finally here and I get to report to my first duty station."
