Dixon (AS 37) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 42 text:

Plantation Although the existence of Diego Garcia was unknown to many of the DIXON crew until we prepared to deploy, for a great many people the island was an important link in world coconut production. Originally settled by the French, the island became a British possession in 1810 and several coconut plantations were established and flourished over the years. By the end of World War II however, only the East Plantation was in business. This plantation ceased operations in the early 1970 ' s when the United States and Great Britain agreed to use the island for defensive purposes. The buildings of the East Planta- tion are still standing and are being converted into an R and R area for the sailors on the island and in the fleet.

Page 44 text:

Turn-To After the long transit across the Pacific and Indian Ocean ' s, the USS DIXON was finally ready to do her job, provide support for the fleet unit ' s operating in the Indian Ocean. The task began even before the ship dropped anchor as radio traffic increased with requests and data from the various ships we were to work on during the overhaul periods. The Repair Department quickly moved into shift work and began around the clock operations. Deck Department worked continuously providing boat and crane services. Engineering continued as if the ship were underway as they provided steam and electricity not only for us but the tended units as well. As the only intermediate mainten- ance activity in the Indian Ocean, the DIXON was called on to improvise and utilize good old Yankee Ingenuity to get the job done. The USS BLUEFISH (SSN-675) was our first submarine customer and she received the routine exacting service for which DIXON is famous. During our stay the DIXON became the first submarine tender to undertake and accomplish a major screw change on a large ship, specifically USS YARNELL (CG-17). One of the more interesting tasks thrust upon us was the quick repair of the boilers aboard USNS RI6EL (T-AO-58) after she blew one up just as she entered the lagoon. The dramatic and the routine from evaporators to boilers to typewriters, the DIXON did it all with her crew of proud professionals. r- ii - .JSktf