The Virginian-Pilot
© November 10, 2014
The Norfolk-based aircraft carrier George H.W. Bush and the guided missile destroyer Truxtun are returning home on Saturday, following a deployment that took them back into war.
The return brings 5,000 sailors back to the region, promising added traffic in Hampton Roads.
The Bush deployed in February and took part in the initial air strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria in September, when it launched F/A-18 Hornets and EA-6B Prowlers from the Arabian Gulf.
Another Norfolk-based ship, the guided missile destroyer Arleigh Burke, also took part in the assault, launching Tomahawk missiles from the Red Sea.
Carrier Air Wing Eight from Oceana Naval Air Station, which departed aboard the Bush, will return Friday, in advance of the ship homecoming.
Two other ships that deployed with the carrier strike group are returning home to Mayport, Fla.