In addition, New Hampshire was the first Virginia class submarine to deploy in support of operations in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility.
"It was a marvelous performance by the entire crew. It was really rewarding. It's rewarding to be back and see our families though. We're happy to be here," said Commander Michael Stevens, New Hampshire's commanding officer.
During her maiden deployment, New Hampshire, the fifth submarine of the Virginia-class, made port calls in France, Spain and Norway. While in Norway, New Hampshire's crew participated in a weeklong celebration of the Norwegian Submarine Centennial with submariners from that country, Germany, Russia, and the United Kingdom. During that event, the crew marched through downtown Bergen, Norway with sailors from Norway, Germany, Russia and the United Kingdom to help the country celebrate its 100th Submarine Birthday.
"We have 134 crew members," said Stevens. "For about 80 percent, it was their first deployment, and probably for more than that, it was their first time in a foreign country. So, it was a lot of fun for them. They had a good time."
Though they may have had a good time, crew members said it was still better to be home.
"I'm looking forward to relaxing and sleeping in, but I know that ain't gonna happen," said Machinist's Mate 1st Class Adam LaMar of Groton, as he held his 10-month old daughter, Indy. She was chosen as the traditional "First Hug."
LaMar's wife, Kelly, planned on "locking him in the house and going M.I.A. for a while, just being a family again," she joked. They were married on Leap Day, Feb. 29, 2008.
Other family members were trying to take it all in as well.
"It is a whirlwind of emotions. Words can't really describe the feeling," said Candice Revitzer of New Hampshire's return. Her husband, Ens. Jason Revitzer, is New Hampshire's supply officer. They were married eight months ago to the day.
"It's very hard to be apart from each other, but if anything it really teaches you how strong your love is," said Candice Revitzer, who was chosen for the traditional "First Kiss."
New Hampshire was launched Feb. 21, 2008, and christened four months later, on June 21, 2008, in Groton, eight months ahead of schedule and $54 million under budget. She finished initial sea trials and was delivered to the Navy Aug. 28, 2008, then was commissioned at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, Oct. 25, 2008. She is the fourth ship to be named for the state of New Hampshire, though one of her predecessors only existed on paper. It was authorized, but cancelled before the keel was laid.
The name was awarded to the submarine after a letter writing campaign by third graders from Garrison Elementary School in Dover to their members of Congress, the state governor, and the Secretary of the Navy.
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