Fort Fisher (LSD 40) - Naval Cruise Book

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CWLYSQ 'lfiolQ.7'gf-ff lit? 'N OP DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY QW VL ,A uss FORT FISHER QLSD-401 fri. ,f fgiipi V ix N 'X 44 fx - -. -av 1 .1 'Z' gg Emo A .ul sgls gn Q 'n Ii H X , S' A A Ji g Aff - - - Q' 64? QQ leo PHS, r of FPO SAN FRANCISCO, CA 96665 it-1 if 6 March 1981+ Gents, This book, I hope, will bring back fond memories of what was the finest deployment I have ever experienced. In every respect Cports, operations and readiness? this was a 4.0 cruise that was only made possible by an outstanding crew which included the embarked Marines, Marine Service Support Group 31. The fact that all operations were conducted professionally, safely and in a timely manner is a matter of record. This stellar accomplishment is indicative of a superb group working together as a team, as true shipmates. It is an accomplishment for which you should be justly proud - you are the first tearn.'Y To mention specific accomplishment or highlights in a short letter is dangerous because I am bound to miss too many. A few points, however, will always remain with me concerning the cruise: - The unparralled readiness, starting from the very beginning of the cruise when we had only 30 days notice for a five-month-early deployment. To the entire six month deployment where the ship was on time and completed every commitment in a splendid manner. - The excellent support between the Sailors and the fviarines of FORT FISHER. The MSSG- 3l showed us new heights of professionalism, and full integration into shipboard routine made us one crew, both green and blue. - The outstanding performance in foreign ports when everybody conducted himself as gentlemen and served as true good-will ambassadors to our many friends from foreign lands. - All operations from the exercises in Australia, Korea, Iwo Jima, Subic Bay and Hawaii to therefueling astern from an oiler Ia first for an Amphibious Shipl, were performed with a positive spirit which insured outstanding results. So keep this book as a rememberance: You led the way and you were a part of a 4.0 team. You worked hard to make this happen, therefore you earned this recognition! S S R. C. W LLI 'if III