Iowa (BB 61) - Naval Cruise Book

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1- -l, ,., - .. f v --- - ,,,,,,- ..-HY-1 -KLI4- KIEL, GERMANY June 7, 1989 the U.S.S. IOWA left its home in Norfolk, Virginia for a six month cruise. There were objec- tives to reach, challenges to pit our minds and other concerns to bend our brows as we made our way across the mysterious North Atlantic. On Sunday June 18, l I days after our departure, amid a sea of sailboats that glistened in the moming sunlight, the IOWA was slowly guided to its position in the middle of Kiel, Germany's aqua-marine harbor. The apprehension facing many sailors upon departure from Norfolk Wasexchanged foranticipation ofuhitting the beach. Even the old salts, having traveled far and wide over the oceans of the world, held a deep satisfaction. Neither the anticipation nor the Old confidence went unfulfilled as we made our way through the city of Kiel. i Crewmembers also visited neighbor- ing cities during the annual celebra- tion known as Kiel Week. The celebration was the center of attention, not only for the crew of the IOWA but also for the crews of many different ships representing the world. There were activities enough to make each day complete for everyone. Along the boardwalk. there were stands featured with many different types of foods and various bands. J uggleis played for nothing more than the crowd's generosity. Besides the wealth of food and entertainment, there was also a warm and gentle spirit that permeated the city of Kiel and rested like a security blanket upon the soul of the weary sailors. Many sailors. tired of the barren sea's restless silence. found life, music and company in Kiel along ix with good weather and plenty of re- freshments. lf anyone tired of the hectic pace while in Kiel. the green meadows and rolling hills of Germany's countryside offered a relief to the rowdy festivities. Perhaps what will never be for- gotten is the kindness that the sailors of IOWA discovered in Kiel. And yet. as all good things come to an end, so did the visit to Kiel for the sailors of IOWA. Much more alone than when she came in, the IOWA was led out of the harbor to continue her long joumey through the deep blue sea. As the ship made its way through the pitching waves, crewmembers traded stories of their stay in West Germany. The crew only needed to keep their minds on their duties but always looking forward to being surrounded by music, entertain- ment and excitement again.

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