Hopewell (DD 681) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 15 text:

Second Divisi ' 'On target, fire for effect was often heard on the HOPEWELL. A large part of this was due to the professional skill and hard work of Second Division's Gunners Mates and Fire Control Technicians. Although plagued by many casualties, HOPEWELL was able to meet all commitments to the great delight of our many spotters, putting the main and secondary batteries to good use Where they hurt the enemy the most. Our H A2 I fire was very effective. We believe we interdicted NCS E. Adams CHARLIE successfully and we know that we harassed the hell out of our shipmates by firing at all hours of the day and night. L. Beach, GMGSN S. Bloom, FTG2 B. Brennan, FTG3 W. Byrd, SN n P. Conway, FTGSN M- C0l1Ch, SN A. Fitch, GMG3 R. Graves, SA D. Graybeal, FTG3 W. Hall, GMGZ S. Jesses, SN J, Luiz, FA . S. Metcalf, SN J. Ramsey, GMG2 B. Reves, SA R. Stephens, GMG3 G. Tarris, FTGSN H. Woods, GMG1

Page 14 text:

One of the highlights of this deployment has been the commencement of a closely coordinated program between the Bos'un's Mates and the BTS involving the complete lubrication of HOPEWELL's main deck and sides during several underway fueling evolutions. The results of this program are broad in scope ranging from high-level dis- cussions between the First Lieutenant and Chief Engi- neer concerning intra-divisional exchange, projects, to new understanding and patience on the part of the en- listed personnel concerned. A second, and perhaps more memorable highlight has been the futile attempts of the Engineering Department to maroon the coxswain's and a variety of passengers in the gig, more affectionately dubbed the First Lieutenant's whaleboat by the Captain. Both sides, that is, the members of First Di- vision and the AEKLR Division have exhibited great patience and perseverance in this matter. Through general quarters, helo details, unrep details, anchor details, and even routine maintenance, the Deck Division has carved a niche for itself fquite literally on the foc'sle, in factj with its performance and constant colorful commentary concerning the shipboard environ- ment. Probably the only Deck Division in the Navy led by a red-necked ' 'Bear, it exemplified the trials and successes of HOPEWELL in WestPac. What? me wrong? i l Now this ain't no . . . i

Page 16 text:

The ' 'Gun Gang enjoyed its liberty too. Subic is not noted for being the best liberty port, but the division made the best of it. Hong Kong was thoroughly enjoyed by all hands except possibly the Gunnery Assistant who pulled shore patrol on two of our five nights. h t ere. Sasebo was the high point for 2nd Division. Everyone enjoyed the great liberty and the Gunner's Mates finally celebrated CASCORING Mt. 53. . A 2nd Division figured its work was finished when we left the gunline in February, but a sudden schedule change in April resulted in almost 1,500 rounds in 7 days for a blazing end to the present deployment, H.EY RED, is it true that you can sing yourself to sleep???! W 46 'If E if D gnu' IFJ. Q 4' N 7 7 a 2