Lenawee (APA 195) - Naval Cruise Book

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PHILIPPINES I PHILLIPPINE ISLANDS— Subic Bay was oiir first visit to the Philippines. We made a one day stop to pick up Navy and government dependents for a recreation cruise to Hong Kong. This first visit was short but we made up for it later. I er meaning — four more visits. You might say we got to know the place. Manila was next on the list. We anchored in Manila Boy in October, November and again in February. Manila ' s main attractions were points of historical in- terest, namely those of World War II. The poor ex- change rate of 3-1 made it almost impossible for service personnel to buy anything of much value. Dingolon Boy became rather familiar also. Our two major amphibious operations — Strongback and Phiblink — were held here. The only liberty offered during the two operations was a Sunday afternoon swimming party on the beach. We got a good look at Dingalan Bay, but from a distance. Summing up, you might say that we spent most of this cruise steaming around or anchored about the Philippines. Can ' t complain though — we spent the win- ter months engulfed in sunshine.

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HONG KONG HONG KONG— This British Crown Colony was the highlight of the cruise. We were in Hong Kong over two periods; first, on a dependents ' recreation cruise, 12 to 18 October, and again as Station Ship from 23 October to 13 November. The best buy in Hong Kong was tailor made clothing. Nearly all of us had something made up from imported British fabrics and cut to order by a clever Chinese tailor. Sightseeing was popular also. Tiger Balm Gardens stood first on the list. Trips around the island of Hong Kong were inexpensive and most interesting. Backgrounds for such movies as Love is a Many Splendored Thing and Soldier of Fortune became everyday sights. About the biggest twist was the band at a local club. Here we are half way around the world, and a down- town bar is featuring LENAWEE ' s Clemons and Young, our hometown string busters.