USS Reuben James making final return to Hawaii

The Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided missile frigate USS Reuben James will return to its homeport in Hawaii from a deployment to the Western Pacific on May 3.

During the ship's seven-month deployment, the crew of Reuben James participated in a series of bilateral maritime exercises or Cooperative Afloat Readiness and Training while conducting at-sea security scenarios, helicopter operations, a search and rescue practical and surface gunfire drills in the Seventh Fleet Area of Responsibility.

"First and foremost, thank you to the crew of USS Reuben James for your outstanding performance," said Reuben James Commanding Officer Cmdr. Daniel Valascho. "Our motto is 'Back With A Vengeance,' but now we're back with a sense of satisfaction, knowing we did our part operating forward, strengthening partnerships and protecting freedom."

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