Boston (CA 69) - Naval Cruise Book

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Unloaded guns, loaded emotions Home atlast

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HOMECGMING-NCJVEMBER15,1969 Approaching the harbor, manning the rail. As you approach Boston Harbor, be proud of your sig- nificant contribution made to our war effort. The uncon- tested power and versatility of Boston enabled you to par- ticipate in Seventh Fleet Operations with the effectiveness and authority that only comes from strength. Boston's presence in the Pacific Fleet was deeply appreciated. Your return to the Atlantic and Home is well earned. Best wishes fora happy reunion with your families. Rear Admiral Freeman COMCRUDESPAC As a grand old lady weighs anchor for perhaps the last time in a long and distinguished career may fair winds and following seas go with you. Captain Bruce Keener USS Seattle Let fair winds and following seas accompany you to home port and to a joyous reunion with your families and loved ones. Although your deployment was foreshortened, the memory of the effectiveness of your guns against Charlie and intruders from the North will live on. You can take great pride in the thought that your contribution to the successes in South Vietnam have been important and sig- nificant, and well worthy of your whole hearted dedication of them. Rear Admiral Anderson CRUDESFLOT 10 Boston sees Boston 152 Scanning the crowd.

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The crowd awaiting Boston could be seen far out in the harbor. An estimated 3000 people came to see the grand old lady dock at home for the last time and greet loved ones they had not seen for six months. The bleachers on the pier provid- ed an ideal lookout to watch the ship come home and display signs that some had made to welcome the sailors. Despite chilly winds the crowd was warm and willing to wait those last glorious moments of eager anticipation. 1 Awaiting the ship in sh'n bl k t band rendered its versioln ,of VillgIccEl?1SeLl-IrTo?1ieWvSh?ldlllt'leb1gXllQxiidlgsnpdgsailjddyalxr-?evl1:l:ldzE1,stlllofllliebeaxfekiglhogushzlolflfwe COMONE 154