John Stennis (CVN 74) - Naval Cruise Book

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ivmr ifu • T ' tTMJt ' t KUki VA,u JSii u; UMm I Oi : J fter almost a solid month of operations at sea, it was back to 1 anchorage, and lines to get off the ship. But JCS ' first port Jl A.visit in the Middle East proved to be a pleasant surprise for even the most skeptical of fun-seekers. The island nation offered modem shopping centers, world- class cuisine and exciting tours, inviting visitors to a sneak-peek into Arab culture. After a few changes in wardrobe, Sailors and Marines were off to paint the town red. Sailors flocked to places like the Gold Souq and the capital city of Manama ' s various street markets, where bartering is the business practice of choice. Many also took advantage of some of the historical tours of the country offered by MWR. Bahrain ' s small size, and extensive system of highways and causeways made getting around relatively simple, provided you had the gift of gab with the local cab drivers. Fortunately, JCS arrived in Bahrain during the region ' s win- ter season, so temperatures averaged in the high 80 ' s during the day, and the mid 70 ' s at night. Bahrain is also the Headquarters to Commander, U.S. Forces, Central Command and Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Fifth Fleet, so the Administrative Support Unit (ASU) afforded Sailors the opportunity to simply IjjJiP ' relax off the ship. The ASU also boasted a pool, bowl- ■ ing alley, gymnasium and of course, the Desert Dome Enlisted Club Bciprai am 487