Hancock (CVA 19) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 17 text:

Captain Blesh was horn in Pennsylvania, and raised in New York. He graduated from Syracuse University in 1935 and become a naval aviator in 1937. Before assuming Command of the Hancock in December of 1961, he was the Skipper of the USS Elokomin CAO-555. Cn the Hancock, his knowledge and leadership have brought the ship and crew through exercise after exercise with relative ease and excellent accomplishment. A firm and just disciplin- arian, quick and sound in decisions, Captain Blesh sits high in the esteem of his crew. COMMANDING OFFICER CAPTAIN PAUL K. BLESH

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Born in Seattle, Washington, and a graduate of the Naval Academy, Admiral Blackburn has performed many diversified duties leading to his present station. Most recent of these duties was as Assistant for War Gaming Matters in the office of the Chief of Naval Operations. Assuming the duties of Commander Carrier Division Three on 22 September 1961, the Admiral has made himself known in tactical exercises and for the concern of his ilagship and crew. Strict in discipline, firm in custom and tradition, Admiral Blackburn set an example for all. COMCARDIV 3 REAR ADMIRAL PAUL P. BLACKBURN, JR

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EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMMANDER JACK B. JONES X,,f 'QQ' Commander Jones was born in Springfield, Missouri and graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy in 1942. His career as a naval aviator began when be received his Wings in March of 1945. Commander Jones reported aboard Hancock in September, 1961 from the Naval Academy Where he was Executive Officer of the Engineering Department. As Hancock's Executive Officer, admini- stration and administrative organization Were functions in which he capably excelled. Calm and collected always, even though in a tight situation, the commander made almost any job seem easy.