MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — The Blue Star Mothers of Coastal Carolina on Tuesday welcomed home 24-year-old U.S. Navy Sailor Hayden Taylor.

Taylor arrived in Myrtle Beach after an eight-month deployment on the Red Sea. He is a second class sonar technician.

According to his family, Taylor and his fellow sailors often could not contact their loved ones at home. The Sea Service said the crew of the U.S.S. Mason also faced unprecedented attacks from rebels during their 263 days at sea.

Therefore, when Taylor booked his flight to Myrtle Beach, the Blue Star Mothers of Coastal Carolina helped make his return special for him and his family.

Taylor said it was unbelievable how many people came to support him on Tuesday. He also said he couldn’t stop smiling, especially because the unforgettable moment was a surprise.

“That was completely unexpected. I did not know that was going to be happening at all,” he said. “I just first saw the flags of everyone up on the sides, and then I was like, ‘is this for me?’ Then, I heard the applause and I was like, oh, it is.”

Taylor said the number of people who showed up for him shows just how strong the bond is between members of the military and veterans.

“I would say one of the best parts of the military is just the community. It’s certainly hard to deny,” he said. “You know, you have, like, so many people, especially when you’re out there with people for so long on deployment with them. You know, you forge a special bond. That is true.”

Earlier in the day on Tuesday, Taylor and his mother, Jennifer Taylor, were on their way to lunch and a movie, ready to make the most of their time together.