USS Iwo Jima returns to Norfolk from extended deployment in Caribbean

Emma Rose Brown, The Virginian-Pilot on Jun 6, 2026

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NORFOLK, Va. — Sailors and Marines aboard the USS Iwo Jima returned Saturday to Naval Station Norfolk from a 10-month deployment spent mostly in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Originally bound for Europe, the Iwo Jima was rerouted after leaving Norfolk in August and was extended twice to support missions, including Operation Southern Spear.

Capt. Chris Farricker, commodore of Amphibious Squadron 8, made it home just in time to celebrate daughter Bridget’s birthday Saturday.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the families of the Iwo Jima (Amphibious Ready Group),” Farricker said. “I know this deployment’s been a long one. I recognize the sacrifices that you’ve made while we were deployed and thank you for your unwavering support while at home while protecting the nation. We could not have done this without you and we are forever grateful.”

The group consists of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship Iwo Jima and amphibious transport docks the USS San Antonio, which returned to Norfolk in April, and the USS Fort Lauderdale, which remains deployed. It also includes the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit.

“This warship played a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of not only our own ships, but also of those who operated alongside us in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility,” said Iwo Jima commanding officer Rick Haley. “During this deployment, our presence and our capabilities demonstrated the United States’ enduring commitment to deterring aggression and malign actors, maintaining regional stability.”

Operation Southern Spear began in September. Its stated goal is to disrupt the flow of narcotics from cartels that President Donald Trump has designated as terrorist organizations. According to public reports, more than 200 people have been killed in strikes on small boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

On Jan. 2, the group participated in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and wife Cilia Flores. Maduro and Flores were put on the Iwo Jima before being taken to the U.S.

Haley said the morale of the crew was high, and said members are “extremely happy,” to be home, “but most importantly, of what we accomplished.”

The Iwo Jima and its sailors will soon head to New York to participate in the nation’s 250th birthday celebration.

Haley said his crew will get enough down time to recuperate before then.

“We have 23 days from today before we get back at it, and that’s plenty of time.”

One of the last to reunite on the pier was the family of Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Jacob Daniello from Pennsylvania. His loved ones drove six hours to welcome him home.

His dad, John Daniello, said his son is an even-keeled sailor who’s been working hard on his qualifications during the deployment.

“That was the one real bright side to the deployment being a little more extended is because he was able to get more completed.”

The Daniellos are looking forward to meeting their sailor again next month when the Iwo Jima sails into New York harbor on Independence Day.