The Tiger Cruise is a voyage like no other. It is a unique invitation for family members of Marines and Navy sailors to travel the last leg of their loved one’s journey, as they return from deployment.
I was honored to be Rob’s guest on the USS Makin Island during its trip from Hawaii to Oceanside. What an experience!
The week aboard I learned how an assault ship functions, from the jets and helicopters taking off and landing on the Flight Deck to the amphibious crafts launched from the Well Deck.
We saw the Navy crew and the Marines in action, visiting the ship’s bridge, engine room, and hospital. We slept in racks and ate at the mess. The Tiger Cruise increased my appreciation and admiration for the important work of our armed forces.
We watched the Marines and Navy at work and joined them at play. The crew treated us to a “steel beach barbecue” in the Hangar Bay, an ice cream social and a karaoke night.
How proud I felt to accompany our very own Captain O’Berg, so kind and courteous to all. One fellow officer told me how well respected Rob is “because he leads by example.”
After seven months of deployment, the crew and Marines on the USS Makin Island headed for home. There were lots of smiles and handshakes the final evening we returned to Camp Pendleton.
And there waiting on shore was Nicole. The next morning, Nate, Abby, and Andrew David awoke, so excited to find their dad sitting in the living room.
Welcome back Rob. Oh, how we missed you!