JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It’s not always guaranteed that people will be able to be home for the holidays and celebrate with family. This is especially the case for those who serve in the military.
On Saturday morning, News4JAX went to the Jacksonville International Airport and talked to one sailor who made it back just in time to be with family after several months away.
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Kim Mueller, mother of U.S. Navy sailor Alyanna Nelson, gave her daughter a huge hug and kiss after not seeing her for more than seven months.
“I miss her so much. It is unexplainable as a parent that you don’t see your child. I can’t. I am just so happy that you are home and in my arms,” Mueller said.
Nelson enlisted in the Navy back in July 2022.
She is stationed in Virginia Beach.
“It was very exciting. I am very family-oriented and I’ve been by my mom’s side since I was a little girl. She is literally my best friend,” Nelson said.
Since May, Nelson has been on two different detachments.
Detachments are military guidance to assist sailors from Boot Camp graduation through their first 12 months in the Navy.
She’s been in Fallon, Nevada and Lemoore, California.
A hero back home again with those who could not wait for this moment.
“She is my first-born. She is my everything. My best friend. She’s been by my side. We have been through a lot together, so to have her home and knowing what’s going on in the world, that my baby girl is home, and I get to celebrate Christmas with all of my kids together,” Mueller.
And that’s all that matters.