Forrestal (CVA 59) - Naval Cruise Book

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To the officers and men of FORRESTAL!Carrier Airwing SIX and our families and friends: This book is dedicated to you, the men and families of FORRESTAL!Carrier Airwing SIX, and to those shipmates who were left behind. We set out on our long journey with the goal of being combat ready and being nothing short of the best and we achieved that goal. Nobody does it better!! Throughout our pre-deployment training workups and the MED 1-90 deployment itself, the FIDXCVW-6 team continued to reinforce its reputation as the premier fighting team of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. You were continuously challenged by a seemingly endless series of real world commitments, administrative inspections and operational exercises. To your credit you always reached deep for that extra professional effort and pride that distinguished you as THE BEST. You are among most potent, flexible and capable assets First In Defense , was your daily wa Your achievements in engineering performance, flight-deck efficiency aircraft, aviation safety, and flying hours set as important in view of our numerous f as outstanding ambassa- dors of the United AL of countless high-level dignitaries from conduct ashore on liberty served your and Airwing SIX were always ready, always in support of our nation's interests in Whether you realize world events during Med 1-90. This past deplo ts which may prove to be the beginning of one Open dissatisfaction with Communism and as dramatized by the tearing down of of many on going events which 1 of the entire world. Let's hope that it is largely due to the ever present our Carrier Battle Groups that sail the times it is impera- tive that we continue allow the United States to be weakened unwisely from what appears to be a softening 'by the Soviets. More and the presence of Aircraft Carrier Battle Groups are essential to great nation. Many difficult challenges still lay ahead. There is no question that you, the crew of FORRESTAL and CVW-6, and other sailors like you will successfully meet those challenges. n To our families and friends, you each have my personal gratitude and respect for the unwaning support you provided and the challenges you also answered throughout our long absence. With- out your love and understanding, none of our achievements would have been possible. You share equally the honorable service to our country that your men bear so nobly and you can also hold your heads high as you share in our success. Well done to each and every one of you! My pride in FORRESTALXCVW-6 is unbounded. I will always be grateful for having had the privilege to serve as FID's commanding officer. CAPT L. E. Tim THOMASSY Commanding Officer