The USS Connecticut (SSN 22) left Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton for a scheduled six-month Western Pacific deployment Sept. 10.

USS Connecticut, commanded by Cmdr. Michael Varney, left on its first deployment since being homeported in Bremerton in January 2008.

The crew conducted months of training, work-up operations and numerous certifications in preparation for deployment. Many said they were looking forward to finally going to sea and putting their training to use.

“We’re excited, the whole crew is excited,” Varney said. “We have spent most of the last year getting ready to deploy and we are looking forward to going to sea in support of our mission.”

Families and friends gathered on the pier to give one last goodbye to their loved ones before their departure. Many held back tears while trying to stay positive, knowing they will see their submariner again in the spring.

“Leaving family is always hard, but it’s part of the job we do,” Varney said.

Connecticut is the second of its class and assigned to Submarine Development Squadron Five, headquartered at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor.