From the Commanding Officer of the USS ESSEX:
Iron Gator Friends and Families,
Over the course of the last 7 months, we travelled more than 45,000 nautical miles conducting operations in support of national objectives, maritime security, and the peaceful navigation of the world’s oceans and waterways.
The tireless effort and sacrifices of Essex Sailors and Marines that drove our success would not have been possible without the support and encouragement of all of you at home.
As our journey is now complete and we are safely at home with our loved ones, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your service.
As service members, we are often thanked for our service, but few recognize the service and sacrifices of the friends, spouses, sons, daughters, mothers and fathers of our Iron Gator Sailors and Marines.
It is your efforts at home that enable our Sailors and Marines to focus on their missions, knowing that while they have the watch around the world, you have the watch at home.
Thank you Iron Family!
Welcome Home ESSEX and the 15th MEU!
With my deepest gratitude and profound respect,
CAPT B. J. Quin
