Hornet (CVA 12) - Naval Cruise Book

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L I W ,,,, , ,. ,W ,,,, pen that Golden Gate I!

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KWHHHYWHWBWWVWWMHW From the Captain: On 11 May 1954 the HORNET sailed from Norfolk, Va. on what, to you, was a highly advertised world cruise. That cruise will end at 1500 on 14 December 1954 in San Diego, California, seven months after leaving the U. S. From June 1954 until December 1954, a period of some five II10l1thS, there Was an interlude in the world cruise while we conducted operations in the South China Sea-Formosa-Japan areas. Now that we are nearing the completion of that cruise fwe have the Golden Gate Bridge bore-sighted dead aheadlj I think the time has come for us to discuss this business we are in. No doubt some of you are wondering what it is all about and what did we accomplish. The U. S. did not spend millions of dollars in converting and recommission- ing the HORNET for the sole purpose of showing the flag on a 'round the world cruise. The real reason was to provide a hard-hitting and ready unit for the protection of the Free and Democratic peoples of the world. The HORNET and Air Group NINE, as a closely knit sand highly coordinated team, formed that unit and took their normal turn on the cold war front line for that interlude of five months in the Western Pacific, With other carriers, our screening and support ships and our logistics support force we were a major unit in a strong retardation force ready to strike in retaliation if ordered by U. S. authority. , What did we accomplish? By our mere presence we indicated that U. S. forces were ready to insure the security of the free people in the Western Pacific. Secondly, our allies and Free people of the Western Pacific were very happy that we were there, and our position was strengthened with these people. While we were in Yokosuka, making preparations for return to the U. S., I called Vice Admiral Pride, Commander U. S. Seventh Fleet, During our con- versation he gave me a message to pass on to you: '6Tell your ship and air group they have done a fine job out here. They have carried out their mission and deserve a well donef' ' A P This has been a fine cruise for all of us. You have seen a lot of the world that the average American would give plenty to see, It was a fine privilege given to you and undoubtedly has provided you with pleasant recollections which will remain with you for life. Along with these should always be the proud memory of having upheld your part in the cold war at the same time. As for me, this has been the most satisfactory period of my career. To have command of such a fine ship and excellent crew is the climax for which every Naval Officer strives. I feel very proud and grateful for being given the privilege of commanding this ship and being shipmates with you. No one could ask for better. In conclusion I want. to thank you, each and everyone, for the fine work you have been doing. I wish you a completely satisfactory leave, a very Merry Christmas, with plenty of Santa Claus, and the best of success for the New Year. May we all sail together again in the near future! CAPTAIN F. A. BRANDLFJY, USN COMMANDING OFFICER