America (CVA 66) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 24 text:

NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD PORTSMOUTH, VIRGINIA July 18, 1966 sees AMERICA enter drydock for the first time since she was commissioned. The fit is tight but AMERICA is soon dry and resting on giant concrete blocks. The tempo of operations on a ship such as AMERICA necessitates frequent visits to the shipyard. For the present yard period the major task is the scraping and recoating of the hull. Work begins immediately, however, and AMERICA will be ready within six weeks. 20

Page 23 text:

A beautiful day adds to the pleasure as AMER- ICA glides alongside Pier 12 for the first time in 8 months. More welcome than the pier are those gathered upon it. Their raised faces bring a unified reaction from AMERICA ' S crew, at quarters around the flight deck. The brows are put slowly into place and anticipation passes into reality. The fortunate rush into waiting arms; others find their joy in being on native soil and close to home again. 19

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The screws have +o be cleaned too! Now hear this: Swim call has been cancelled. 21