Bunker Hill (CG 52) - Naval Cruise Book

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Commissioning in Boston BUNKER HILL (CG52) was commissioned in Boston within sight of the memorial com- memorating her namesake battle. For Boston, the commissioning seemed to be the highlight of the season. Old Ironsides — USS CONSTI- TUTION — exchanged salutes with the new AEGIS cruiser in the harbor. BUNKER HILL sail- ors were treated royally throughout the city. There were parties, special events, ceremonies . . . and more ceremonies. On the overcast day of 20 September 1986, the crowds gathered on the pier. The crew formed on the pier. The commissioning cere- mony began. On hand were large numbers of dignitaries. including Senator Edward Kennedy of Massa- chussets, guest speaker. He lauded the superb technology and capabilities embodied in BUNKER HILL. To Senator Kennedy, Captain Quast said he proudly accepted command of USS BUNKER HILL. The Executive Officer, Commander Wheeler, called the crew to bring BUNKER HILL to life. The crew ran in formation up the brow and manned the rails; guns turned and radars rotated, along with everything else that could move . . . whistles blew, alarms sounded ... and BUNKER HILL did, indeed, come to life.