Pine Island (AV 12) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 79 text:

For many, it was their first 'trip out of the States and it wasua thrilling sight when, on the morning of Dec. 30, 1950 we sawfthe peak of Mt. Fujiyama glistening in the bright sun. This was Japan. ' After a brief stop at Yokosuka, almost' under the shadow of Fujiyama, the ship headed for Iwakuni which was to be our first Far Eastern duty station. Dropping anchor at lwakuni all hands were wondering what fascinating and interesting sights would be in store for us, con- sequently when the liberty call was sounded, it was quickly answered by our crew. Bundled in peacoats against the chilling cold, our adventurers set forth in the liberty launches for the boat landing. When we landed the sun was just setting and the air of adventure deepened. iWe looked about for- a way into town and were fortunate in catching ridesfrom our good-natured Australian friends to the gate where a taxi or rickishaw was easily found. for the short ride to the shopping center and hotels. A The Iwakuni Airfield was operated jointly by the Royal Australian Airforce and the United States Air Force. Here was a gymnasium which was immediately placed at our disposal by our friends for calisthenics, basketball and handball, which most of the crew took advantage of on their recreation periods which were 'a half a day to the liberty party prior to the regular liberty hours. , 67

Page 78 text:

1 f ? 3 5

Page 80 text:

We -also had a softball field which gave. the Dimaggios ' on the PINE ISLAND a chance to show their power at the plate, and also foot- ball which was played most of the time. ' The base PX was a favorite spot for the crew. Heier many fine pieces of merchandise from Japan, China, Indo-China, and as far away as India was on' display. Gur sales resistance was very low and consequently many' choice pieces were eagerly bought for gifts to our loved ones back home. Many of the men bought crac- kers and cheese spread or candy in order to have that little midnight snack aboard ship. For those who 'wished there was the 77 Club where one could go and have his meals at a very low price and also across the street from ' the gymnasium was the favorite - little Salvation Army Canteen with its Coffee Shop, library and game room for those free moments. Longwill beremembered the snacks -consisting of a cup of tea, four pieces of cake plus four doughnuts all -for the tidy 'sum of FIVE CENTS. The Sargeants Club wasithe bar on the base for' enlisted men- where many a man found his favorite drink, both mixed or ,,straight...It was one of the most popular places for the mento go to, 'either before going to town, or after. - The Officers quickly found 'the US 'Air 'Force Club .as a convenient place to quench their thirst with a nice tall cool-'.one?', plus a delisciousthamburger or maybe a, good dinner. The flight crews sporting their pistols reminded us of the old frontier days of the Wild west., Our first glimpse of Iwakuni was dishearte- ning. It' Wasn-'t a large city. The people and buildings were .alien and seemed to cast an un- friendlyeye upon us. However it wasn't too long before that friendly, American spirit prevailed and soon won them over' as our friends.'Pushing 0111' Way .through groups of boys selling varied goods we hired rickishaws to take us to the two hotels we knew to be in bounds . 'There' 'we were able A to purchase beer and hot' meals at an amazingly 10W prlce. lt -wasnt Ilongbefore the l'I1C11'WCfC Ofdierihg with savoir faire their suki-yaki instead of steak and eggs. Before long the men were eating and drinking nothing but- rhe best. , ' Later you would see 1 the sailors strolling along the dimly narrow, shop laden streetsihag- 85118, 80011-naturedly with the shop keepers. They offered for sale, kimonos, embroidered silk goods, cameras, ivory and pearls. U - 68 'mi H mmm .... ..,,. I .... I .... iplng, gggg u I 1 up