Antietam (CG 54) - Naval Cruise Book

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s 4m- ft ?•• A shipmate will split the last peanut butter cook- ie or box of Sugar Smacks. He will risk his life for yours if the time ever comes, not because it is expected of him, but because he knows you would do it for him. he asks for nothing more than a smile and a thank you. He is someone who lends an ear or a shoulder when you need it. He will gently remind you of a needed haircut, shoe shine or broken button. Because of the truly unique circumstances of a deployment; the constant stress, boredom, ex- citement and exhilaration, a shipmate is never really forgotten but always held in fond remem- brance. He Is, and will always be a shipmate.

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SHIPMATES Webster ' s Dictionary defines a shipmate as a fellow sailor. But those of us that have been to sea before know that there is much more to it. Anyone can have friends, but only sailors can have shipmates. Shipmates are very special people, indeed. On a deployment, you live together, day in and day out for 6 months. They know your moods, when you ' re happy or sad, ill-tempered or glum. You experience life at sea with them. Shipmates know how you like your coffee and where you keep your cup. He will wake you up after that long night in time for a shower, shave and chow. He will lend you that $20 until payday when you find something special for someone back home. A Shipmate w ensure you get back to the ship after you discover some exotic drink that sneaks up on you. A shipmate will lend you stamps. He will give you a squirt of toothpaste when you forget yours. He will fix you up with his cousin. He will switch watches with you without asking why or expecting a favor in return. He will give you that nick- el you need for a soda. A shipmate will loan you his golf clubs.

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