The destroyer Sampson returned to San Diego Monday from a busy seven-month Western Pacific deployment.
The Sampson aided in the search for the lost AirAsia flight 8501 and also participated in exercises with Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force during the 212-day cruise. That included a Destroyer Squadron 15 multi-sail exercise, which brought together the U.S. ship and other 7th Fleet partner nations, 3rd Fleet said in a news release.
"I am extremely proud of every Sampson Sailor," said Cmdr. Steven Foley, the ship's commanding officer, in the release. "They worked hard during the past 18 months preparing for this deployment, and it showed in their outstanding performance. Their dedication and sacrifice was truly inspiring and resulted in a highly successful seven-month deployment to the Western Pacific. I am thankful to all the family and friends for their continued support and sacrifice so Sampson Sailors could focus on mission success."
The ship embarked a detachment from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 35, which flew more than 860 hours.
