Sailors from the Blue crew of the guided-missile submarine USS Michigan (SSGN 727) got an extended homecoming from their most recent deployment, returning to Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor Feb. 21-23 after three months underway.

Families and friends of Michigan Sailors stood by at Bangor Plaza for three days to welcome home the Blue crew following a long journey from Guam.

“It’s always good to be back home,” said Sonar Technician (Submarine) 1st Class (SS) Steven Earl, who arrived with the first wave of Blue crew Sailors. “When you’re underway, it makes you appreciate things at home that much more.”

After conducting a crew turnover with their counterparts from the Gold crew, the first Sailors from the Blue crew flew into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Feb. 21, with the remainder arriving Feb. 22 and 23.

For some families of Michiganís Blue crew, it made for a longer wait — but a worthwhile one.

“It’s awesome to have him home,” said Rachael Thomas of her husband, Sonar Technician (Submarine) 1st Class (SS) Yancey Thomas, who got to see his five-week-old daughter for the first time when he returned Feb. 22. Thomas was one of six new fathers from the Blue crew.

During its deployment, which began in November, Michigan’s Blue crew conducted operations in the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility, as well as making a port visit to Busan, South Korea.

“We conducted a variety of missions, and the crew and ship met every tasking on schedule,” said Capt. Jerry Logan, Blue crew commanding officer of Michigan.

In addition, 14 Blue crew Sailors — four officers and 10 enlisted — completed their submarine qualifications, earning the submariner’s “dolphins.” A total of 24 enlisted Blue crew members were promoted.

“The guys, as usual, executed whatever assignments they were asked to do,” said Command Master Chief (SS) Victor Smith, the Blue crew’s chief of the boat.

Michigan is currently on its second deployment since converting from a Trident ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) to a guided-missile submarine (SSGN) in 2007. Michigan and the first converted SSBN, USS Ohio (SSGN 726), are both based at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor.