Wasp (LHD 1) - Naval Cruise Book

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headed for NWS Earle, New Jersey, where I loaded various weaponry in preparation and support of my future missions. I could feel the gratification. relaxation, satisfaction, and high self-esteem of my crew, which was expressed through personal conversations held internally and by letters, e-mails and phone calls made to loved-ones contacted on my way home. Later, we were able to invite the dependents and friends to spend a day onboard underway. They came in droves from far and wide to share with us this Dependents Day Cruise . Here they experienced and witnessed the work and activities of my crew and allow them to familiarize themselves, and have an understanding of what we do. Making it feasible to cope with the lonely days while I am gone. Itls Christmas-97 season, my relentless Crew looks forward to a well-deserved RSLR, and a time to be jolly. My bow and mast are highly decorated with streams of lights. I looked across the waterfront, and there I saw a mirror image of myself as many of the ships shared the same decorum. With fifty percent of my crew gone to celebrate in other States, during both leave periods, Oh! how I cried with great concern, wishing them the best and safest time. My next mission for my Crew was aimed towards the Caribbean Islands. Based on past experience, no other location does it better for ufun in the sun', than the Caribbean. Itls like going to Hawaii, vacationers are always excited by the tune of the steel drums. Enroute to Puerto Rico I was accompanied by other military forces, who merged with me and collectively we called it ITFEXH. I observed from a distance cautiously, like a mother watching her kids. Only this time, my f'kids played with live ammunition. When someone goes to High School or College, graduation is the main focus and proves success. Therefore, I had to graduate from these exercises and training for which were conducted over the months. Then it came time for final good-byes to loved ones and our dearest friends. I had to rehll on supplies to last five months. A quick stop was made in North Carolina to scoop-up my Marine Expeditionary Unit, the other half of my team. With my aircraft, amphibious vehicles and LCAC's embarked, I headed East for an adventurous mission across the pond to the Mediterranean Sea. No land insight across the horizon, but endurance and persistence would positively prevail. Ahead I saw this artistic landscape within the fog confirming I was nearing Spain. After twelve tedious days across the Atlantic Ocean. I moored in Rota, Spain. The Husbantling Agent came ottt to brief my crew on 238 various points of interest, NAS facilities and activities. The Naval Station served as a key location, and felt like home away from home for the adventurous. My Crew took advantage of the phrase and the opportunity to shop till you drop? I received official news that I had won the Ogden Award, for Firefighting Excellence. This was followed by notification of winning the HSECNAV Environmental, and Mission Area Excellence Awardf' confirming the pride and professionalism I always display. I departed Rota, Spain proudly with my ARG and headed further East to rendezvous with USNS Patuxent tTOA-201 J for RAS. I quenched my thirst with 700,000 gallons ofJP-5 on a brilliant sunny day, with temperatures in the high 60's, low 70's and continued my journey on the open seas, ready to execute my orders set forth by SIXTH FLEET. My CO invited ALL HANDS'l top-side via the IMC to view this enormous natural phenomenon called UGIBRALTARM. This mighty rock has been called 'fthe gateway to the Medl' by sailors throughout historys. As I trudged through the deep blue Western Med., cameras flashed and camcorders recorded the historic and unbelievable view. After three days of operational exercises, various in- house training and a photo setting for the crew's cruisebook, I headed for Naples, Italy for a quick R8LR to let the crew visit Rome, the Vatican, Pompeii, and NAS for those last minute shopping items. My departure from Naples, Italy led me to Split, Croatia, where I continuously went in coastal circles. Orbiting and navigating endlessly. I passed through and observed the same locations in bewilderment, However. the intolerable cycle subsided with the engagement of Exercise Dynamic Response 95-S. in Bosnia-Herzegovina. There, my Sailors and Marines were dispatched ashore to participate with forces from Italy. Netherlands, Poland, Romania and Turkey which made up the Stabilization Force tSFORj. Collectively. these six Nations accumulated over 5,000 hours of intensive training during this exercise. With Dynamic Response behind me. I headed for Thessaloniki. Greece. This religious country was where the apostle Paul did some of his Biblical writings. The incredible sites provided an adventurous and historic atmosphere. There was a busy schedule and short stay of four day s to tour and discover the scenery. IzmirTurkey called next, inviting my troops for a two-day visitation. which they gracefully accepted. Upon my departure and while underway. I received an emergency distress call from a Sea- Land Mariner Merchant Vessel. Approximately 50 miles westward, the vessel apparently suffered an explosion, which resulted in two fires aft. with one crew member injured and one in the water. I immediately launched a SAR helicopter from HC- 8 to analyze the situation and assist in rescue operations. They brought back two injured. while my RHIB boat transported firefighting teams to the scene. After an exhaustive two days of firefighting. we departed the scene and let the rescue tugs take over. Next I focused on Valletta. Malta. the most historic and extravagant country that I had .. u tC?.fL's X151 ' 1 L' .fi....s- tag. g Y-.: - SCT -k'L H.. . I' ,vc . .. VT., Ma. fii 21: gf- l.s-.t i Pte- gg' SS: if, ' I MIT: Clif. I lNx:f j'X 1' I 'P -- , be S i. J. waz orrrrrifzrerrsg... Of ull' things Qarge anfnnadj 2 m I Ktlvgyig 1 4 fi L, mann idly LgWmo iw-Sm... grub , tab. gm 'bfi .hymn mail ltr! .ts-'Ig v'l '-- i

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WASP SPEAKS or HER REFLEcT1oNs taprii 96 - July 985 By Lt. Hilary St.R0se Under the command, direction and guidance of my new Commanding Officer. I reported to Norfolk Naval Shipyard QNNSYD. Portsmouth Y.-X. to be evaluated and undergo an eleven month Complex Overhaul which was previously scheduled and now over-due for accomplishment. Included are maintenance upkeep. various modifications, along with some interior and exterior beautification. Personnel at the NNSY welcomed me with open arms. and treated me with respect and Tender Loving Care. as I prepared for my first physical make-over. I was finally removed and rescued from the waters seven years after my conception, exposing areas of my body that were only viewed by divers and the deep. Though I felt weak, tired, ragged and sluggish due to the many missions I had to fulfill. I continued to display my patriotism, strength. and determination of survival. Within a few days I was stripped, drilled, sanded and loaded with various materials and equipment. Hoses. tubes and lines of numerous dimensions sprang through me like a patient in the OR. My engineering plants were diagnostically checked thoroughly, which reminded me of an EKG: My fuel systems were drained, tanks purged and decontaminated. making me feel like I was quarantined. Several spaces were modified and rehabilitated for various necessary reasons. Specific attention was given to those selected spaces which would accommodate my incoming female sailors. I actually felt like a newly-built, well- tuned engine preparing for the Daytona 500. With continuous determined efforts and magnificent progress accomplished, I emerged revitalized. physically activating every muscle which etrengthcried me from within. l was reborn with cl ery intention to maximize, train. and solidify Q. mixed-gentler crew. lrcceiped my first wave ol approximately lffr tcmalc sailors. many embarked lor their very iff'-f imc Thug. were all geared-up. pre-hriefcd. .Q and eorrie slightly nervous but ready to go. 'vll male aailora w ho have manned me thus far showed no hesitation, disapproval, or envious aggression. They too were previously briefed .very supportive and curiously awaiting the eventful arrival. With a clean-bill-of-health towards the end of the shipyard period, I sometimes felt like a 'lSleeping Giant, potentially energized and nowhere to go. My operative systems were up and running, ready to be tested at a moments notice. With great anticipation, self-assurance and determination, I eagerly awaited Sea Trials . I was a newly manufactured Rolls-Royce sitting and waiting patiently for it's first road-test. It was time to evaluate my performance, modifications, integrity and crew cohesiveness in order to regain and qualify for the number one spot in the Amphibious Fleet. The long awaited time of showmanship had arrived with excitement, eagerness and curiosity. The massive flow of cold water rushing steadily upwards under my body made my outer layer cringe. My props and rudders were startled while my chains and anchors were drawn up in total amazement. The eleven month drought was over. I was no longer on blocks, tied or supported by external forces, but rather under my own power. The shackles of inertia were released, replaced by freedom and self-propelled power of movement which I proudly demonstrated as I trudged through the Portsmouth and Norfolk waterways. Seems like this happens to the best of us: while welre feeling comfortably stable, here comes l'Changel'. I experienced another change-of- command just as I got used to the management and leadership styles of my old Commanding Officer. By adding vital ingredients of professionalism which inspired my crew, he directed and steered me northwards to New York City for Fleet Week- 97, an event which my crew was prepared to attend. They spruced me up for the memorable occasion. Spotless like a Cathedral expecting a visit from the Pope. I entered Manhattan and moored on pier 86, across from another great warrior, The USS Intrepid CCV-l lj. With my new outstanding haze-gray outht and rails uniformly manned with great decor, I gracefully reflected undeniable attractiveness. I boastfully strutted my stuff to New York City and to all participating sea-going commands. My sailors and Marines proudly displayed and represented my image as State Ambassadors. The ever increasing the number of visitors who waited for hours to embrace this opportunity was overwhelming. About 20.000 visitors came across my brow and worked their way through my inner chambers. Soon it was time to secure liberty, account for my crew and depart the area of hospitality. We said our good-byes and thanked New York City for a splendid, enjoyable, and flawless week. I 237

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. w S.'i 't iii! Q' 'Ru il 'fl-.2 'H at ig, , 'W' -Lg. I ' ' -Tff'-i T Q, J... Q .,i. visited during the deployment. I entered Malta's Grand Harbor. 56 years after my predecessor USS Wasp tCV-73 contributed to the liberation of this island nation from Nazi tyranny. I was greeted by vvaving and cheering crowds atop the walls of Yalletta. tthe islands' largest cityj built in 1571. 300 Sailors and Marines dressed in their service dress uniforms manned my rails as we pulled ashore. The hangar bay was festooned with signal pennants and the ship was rigged from bow to stern with white lights. We held a grand reception onboard for such dignitaries as the President of Malta, the U.S. Ambassador and several other distinguished guests. During the month of May, many of my Marines debarked to participate in a NATO-led exercise Destined Glory? This was an invaluable experience to see how other nations accomplished vital military tasks, and a direct reflection of how the L'.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps work together daily. All this was conducted prior to a five-day stop in Rhodes, Greece. Antalya Turkey was my next scheduled stop for a four day rest and relaxation visit. Unfortunately. on the third day, I had to display the PAPA flag and recall my crew. I had to leave forty members of my crew behind. I was directed by Sixth Fleet to head for Kosovo, Albania to conduct Operation Determined Falcon, restoring political stability in the region. The month of June ended with a three- day stop in Corfu, Greece, which has an area of 592 sq. km, and ow es it's sophistication and charm to the meshing of the different civilizations that have occupied it. Disappointed because I was unable to go to Haifa, Israel or Palma, Spain as earlier scheduled. I headed for Cantania, Sicily. With a population ol 5S5Il,IlIltJ, it is home to Italy's only active volcano. Mt. ETNA. Many of my crew brav ed the 100+ degree temperatures to climb the mountain and look out over the island and the Med. Surprisingly. I received exhilarating news that the SEC NAV and CNG received and accepted a fli 5 O . 0 0 0 donation on my behalf at a ceremony held at the Pentagon due to my participation in assisting the S e a - L a n d Mariner Vessel fire. The President and CEO of the Sea- Land Mariner Services Inc. donated the check donated to NMCRS, on behalf of my Sailors and Marines. With the climax and highlights of the Med. deployment accomplished, I headed for Rota, Spain once again to conduct a U.S. Agricultural inspection prior to my departure from Europe as I prepared to head home. My Sailors and Marines methodically dusted, scrubbed, washed and painted me with ffexceptional attention to detail? This inspection brought great concem and was very important to my crew, since a negative mark would delay my final departure. Like the many other tests put before me, I passed the Agricultural inspection with pride and remarkable distinction, while looking over the horizon in search of my sister ship. Then eventually, there she was, my relief was in sight and slowly approaching. You could feel the excitement build as my exhausted crew looked up and realized home was just a few days away. Asking myself, U how, does one spell 6'relief7,': USS SAIPAN CLHA-25 and her ARG. meaning that I would be properly relieved. The following day, I prepared for the long haul across the Atlantic, using the same route from where I once came. s A few miles away from my first stop, all MEUls aircraft were flown-off safely and successfully with little sadness and nostalgic feelings, leaving behind HC-8 to conduct SAR operations and be available to respond as necessary. With a clear. clean and practically empty flight and hangar deck all to themselves, my next stop and focal point of interest was Onslow Bay. Moorehead City, NC for MEU personnel debarkation and Tiger Team embarkation. I regrettably parted company with the MEU, and looked forward to welcoming the Tiger Team, who were very special and automatically became honorary members of my Crew on arrival. They celebrated with magnified excitement and relief, clinging to my Sailors communicatively. catching-up on the past and lost time. For the final stride home, my Sailor's eagerness and anticipation grew even stronger, few suffering from channel fever. I returned home on July 28th. 98 as scheduled and promised, and amazingly witnessed the most awesome Homecoming Celebration and Presentation ever. Welcome Home signs and greetings were flown all over: in the air, on vehicles and buildings, tugs, TV's, and radio stations, just to name a few. Approximately 500 patriotic colored balloons were traditionally released, expressing love, freedom, military support and appreciation for my crew. The band played, keeping the crowd entertained, while personal banners displayed names of loved-ones onboard and coded messages that were not understood by all. My hangar bay was overly crowded, congested and full to capacity, while new fathers were given the first opportunity to debark and greet their Stinger Babies . Numerous reunions were in progress, kisses, hugs and tears were very evident as I stood still in amazement, contented. and fully satisfied that I had safely delivered as expected and had taken care of my own. I feel proud knowing Ilve served my country and crew well. I've given them my allg they have given me their very best. Together we did more than either of us expected. Deep inside, I can hear my children talk of their experiences and how much they grew or of the joys and pains theylve shared. Like their loved ones who saw them leave so many times before, I'm the lonely one now. Yes, my hull is silent and the passageways empty, my children have gone to play and I return to my solitude. My boilers were shut down and once again I became a sleeping gray giant on the waterfront. I'm lonely now, but not to worry, my children will be back. Some have moved on, some will be new, while others will simply return home, and I will take care ofthem all. I guess that isjust another reason why I am better known as, and called: 'SMOTHERT ooooooooooooooooooo no