Kiska (AE 35) - Naval Cruise Book

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LCDR David Rossi, Engineering Department Head Without an energy source, the ship would go nowhere. And that's one of the responsibilities of the second largest department onboard. Besides providing power that energizes personal radios to the ship's engines, LCDR Rossi's men also ensure the availability of fresh water, the integrity of the ship's inter-communication systems, its miles of electrical wires, maintenance of the air conditioning and refrigeration elements and hull maintenance. As with all departments on a ship, Engineering is of vital importance. LT Richard Torres, Deck Department Head In this, the largest department on KISKA, we find the work-horses of the Navy. These men scrape, sweep, swab, paint and carry. They set up, work with and tear down underway replenishments stations. They also stand watches on the bridge day and night. A special divi- sion within Deck is RASE. It is responsible for the upkeep and repair of all equipment relating to underway replenishment. Yet another group of specially-trained sailors work in Third Division which is held directly accountable for all ammunition onboard ship. LT Steve Williams, EOD Department LT Williams' department consists of only three men, but their purpose on a naval vessel is just as unique as the talented trio themselves. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team is trained to contend with dam- aged ammunition both onboard KISKA and in nearby waters. Poten- tially putting their lives on the line every day, these brave souls were an appreciated addition to the crew. Often, they could be found along the shores of the north Arabian Sea conducting under-water exercises to keep ever-ready for potential threats. LT Willie Williams, Command Chaplain No matter what mankind involves itself with, the need for God's men to be present to console and guide is paramount. This was no less true on KISKA. Chaplain Williams acted as minister, counselor and coordinator for a multitude of crew-oriented activities. Additionally, he was tasked with the collateral duty of Public Affairs Officer. To help him with this array of obligations, he had the expert assistance of his trusty religious program specialist, RPSN Hugh Keith. This dynamic duo provided excellent pastoral care to KlSKA's crew. l7l

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LT john Adams, Supply Department Head It is this man's job to ensure that the ship has all the basic require- ments to be self-sufficient, such as food, equipment and money. Additionally, his department washes the crew's laundry, cuts their hair, and provides a ship's store that offers a variety of goods. They offer visible services that make one feel that one is part of a viable community. From his office on the 02 level, LT Adams commands a group of men who have a far-reaching effect on the entire crew of KISKA. Without their efforts, the ship's mission would be impaired. LT David Andersland, Operations Department Head Various communications is the key phrase which describes this im- portant department. Without transmitting and receiving information, the ship would be isolated from its immediate environment and the world. Each division in Operations plays a vital role in the realm of data. The methods used are diverse. The latest in electronic-gathering devices are utilized, yet flashing lights or hand signals are still as im- portant as they were a hundred years ago. And without radio signals, the command would come to a virtual standstill. LT David johnson, X! N av Department Head Within this small department are very distinct rates that provide an assortment of services: the Yeomen and Personnelmen in the ship's office with their files and forms, the Quartermasters on the bridge charting the course, the Iournalist documenting and entertaining the crew, the Hospital Corpsmen tending to the sick, the Postal Clerk sorting mail, the Religious Program Specialist assisting the Chaplain, the Master-At-Arms maintaining law and order, and the Naval Career Counselor persuading people to remain in the United States Navy. LCDR Rocky Kropp, Air Department Head KISKA is made resplendent with the addition of this temporary de- partment of aviators and maintenance men. Because of Air's tireless work, the ship is able to move ammunition and other cargo Cin con- junction with Deck Departmentl at a much faster rate using their two helicopters. Swooping down and hovering above the ship's flight deck, the pilot and his crew have perfected a system of delivering and receiving important cargo in a timely and safe manner. Even though they will eventually return to San Deigo, they will be remembered.

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,X X 0600 X The early morning quiet is broken by the abrupt announcement: Reveille, reveille. All hands heave out and trice up. Now reveille, breakfast for the crew. As the men begin to climb out of their racks, the lights come on. It's the beginning of yet another day at sea. The hours of this new day stand before them like so many images on a clay tablet: showering, shaving, brush- ing teeth, dressing and eating break- fast. And that's just the beginning! For reveille stands for more than just the hour of 0600, it represents the initial stage upon which an entire day is launched. And on this particular da Y, November ll, 1990, KISKA is to experi- ence just about everything a ship could possibly encounter. -1 i I , 1, ' 33? if 9, s . ,A .11 .ff ' a .E Q . . ft btw, 4, wi X. Li . 1 .f A QQ -NJ 1,1-f asfif' p X, .Lk H f.- rams, uv 1 ' 1