The homecoming of the USS George H.W. Bush in Norfolk, Virginia was even more emotional for the 41-year-old mom-of-three, as the supercarrier was named after her late grandfather.
George H.W. Bush served as the 41st president of the United States from 1989 to 1993, and he passed away in November 2018 at the age of 94. “Can you imagine the tears? I have no tears left to give,” the Love Comes First author said ahead of the segment, sitting alongside co-hosts Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie, Carson Daly, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin.
“It was a day I’ll never forget,” she added, before telling viewers how the ship held special memories for her, as she attended its inauguration with her family in 2006 when she was 25 years old.
“Any mission aboard the USS George H.W. Bush holds special meaning to me and my family, as it was my grandfather’s greatest legacy,” Jenna explained, before saying that he joined the US Navy on his 18th birthday, and subsequently became the youngest Navy pilot during World War II. Bush flew 58 combat missions throughout 1944 and received the Distinguished Flying Cross. “I know he would have loved to see these brave men and women man the rails, as they get ready to come into port,” Jenna said.
At the end of her introduction, Jenna could be seen getting emotional again as she spoke about some of the men who met their babies for the first time. “There were 26 men who had never met [their] babies, who got to hold their newborns — some of which were eight months old — for the first time,” Jenna said on Monday’s show.
She also shared some highlights from the homecoming on her own personal Instagram account the day before on April 23rd, writing: “The most moving afternoon—welcoming our heroes home. Thanks @photonate for these beautiful pictures of a day I’ll never forget. Tune in tomorrow at 8 am @todayshow.”
Jenna wasn’t the only one getting emotional, as many of her fans seemed to feel the same way too. “Jenna, I am crying already!” one fan exclaimed. “I cried all day. Get the Kleenex ready! Was so moving,” said another fan, while another wrote: “Thank you Jenna for the beauty in these moments. And for the reminder to be ever so thankful for the men and women who serve and protect our freedom — the sacrifices they and their families have made.” They finished off with a red heart emoji.
“I’m tearing up looking at the pictures. Welcome Home and Thank you for your service!” commented another fan. “This is wonderful! So many don’t realize how much they sacrifice to keep us safe & free. So much gratitude for these fine men & women! Thank you doesn’t cover it!” wrote another, while someone else simply dropped three hand-clapping emojis.
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