The U.S.S. Tarawa returned to San Diego on October 19, 1996 after six long months at sea. The ship was originally slated to be home six weeks earlier, but became part of Operation Desert Strike. Families anxiously awaited the ship's arrival that morning and News 8 was there to capture the emotional reunions. Reporter Kevin Cox spoke to Sheila Harper who had won a raffle to get the "first kiss" when the crew arrived home. The military mom spoke to News 8 about the challenges of having a Navy husband out to sea for so long.

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