George Washington (CVN 73) - Naval Cruise Book

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Welcome Home, GW The ‘Spirit of Freedom’ has returned from the defense of world peace,” said Commanding Officer Capt. Malcolm P. Branch to the immense throng of family, friends and supporters on Pier 11 North July 23. “This is our special salute to you.” The Sailors manning the rail threw multi-colored streamers. A large banner reading “The Spirit is Back... Capture it!” was unfurled, and the crowd cheered. With that celebratory flourish, GW's “Great Adventure came to a close. GW Spirit” was alive and well on Homecoming Day, as family members anxiously awaited the arrival of their heroes from the ship, and GW CWV 7 Sailors anticipated reunions with their heroes on the pier. Technically, the deployment was not yet over; an ammunition off-load still awaited. But for the Sailors and their families - which included over 130 babies who were meeting their fathers for the first time - the hard part was finally over. The “Spirit of Freedom” had indeed returned from the defense of world peace. 236 Homecoming