Essex (CVA 9) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 20 text:

As vve approached Pearl l-larbor, Diamond l-lead al3l:orded us a majestic greeting to the beautiful island ol: Oahu. Aicter entering the harbor we passed the memorial ol: the USS. Arizona. The Arizona sank during the attack on Pearl l-larbor, and still lies at the bottom as an ever present reminder that our task is never done. l-lula girls were on the pier, bidding us a cordial l-lavvaiian welcome. We visited many enchanting places on this tropical island-paradise. The weekend over, we returned to the ship rested and ready to meet the test ol: Operational l2eadiness Inspection. We passed with Flying colors, Feeling like Boots at liirst, but Finishing like Old Salts . The ESSEX was ready For any challenge that might come its way. r lg- - . -44-.-na:..' I A c i A , . . 7 - 9 .I Y, p FN' , l-apic 'Q-',kv1li'vlll! 2 0 Q f w 'liiif' 9

Page 19 text:

16 July All departments were manned and ready to get underway. -l-ugs strained to get us into open water as wives waved their last Farewell. It an exciting day and an active one For all ot' us, From the rawest SA to Skipper. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation orc sights unseen problems unheard oF, but the ESSEX was ready. North Island was in wal4eg now it was Destination West Pac, was the and our

Page 21 text:

Liberty Launcbes Navy League Guests Come Aboard The ESSEX and the bomevvard bound Oriskany were tbe First sbips to tie up stern to stern in tbe bistory of: Ford Island.