Emotional pre-Christmas reunions as HMCS Vancouver returns home after a 6-month deployment [Video]

Just in time for Christmas, the HMCS Vancouver along with 240 crew members has retuned to Esquimalt Harbour after a six-month deployment.

Early Thursday morning, anticipation was building at CFB Esquimalt as hundreds gathered for long-awaited homecoming.

“I’m waiting for my husband,” said Alysha Caliskan.

“It’s been a long wait,” said Cora Reardon.

On June 5, HMCS Vancouver departed to take part in operations throughout the Indo-Pacific. On Thursday, 184 days later, Vancouver and its crew made their way past the Fisgard Lighthouse near Esquimalt Harbour on the final leg of their journey.

“We’re very proud of him,” said Reardon.

As tensions built on shore, the Canadian Navy vessel turned the corner, pulling along side the jette at CFB Esquimalt.

With minutes feeling like hours for the families, one final act of protocol needed to be followed: The first kiss. Those honours went to Dante Brum-Letourneau and Nadia Tymoshun.

“I got one ticket and that’s all I needed,” said Brum-Letourneau.

This was Brum-Letourneau’s first deployment at sea.

“It’s a great coming home gift …