SAN DIEGO - The guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) returned to its homeport of San Diego following a successful seven-month deployment to the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation, June 21.

While deployed, Higgins conducted security, stability, and freedom of navigation operations, observed foreign military exercises, and participated in coalition operations.

“The unrelenting effort and focus my team of warriors displayed fills me with pride,” said Cmdr. Victor Garza, Higgins’ commanding officer. “We are excited to rejoin our San Diego community and especially our loved ones who have carried out the missions on the home-front during our absence.”

Lt. Col. Robin Higgins, retired Marine Corps officer and widow of the ship’s namesake Col. Rich Higgins, embarked the ship as it entered the San Diego harbor to celebrate the homecoming with the crew.

USS Higgins (DDG 76) is part of Naval Surface Forces and U.S. 3rd Fleet. U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.