Leonard Mason (DD 852) - Naval Cruise Book

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COMMANDING OFFICER Commander John S. Weiler, USN enlisted in the Navy in 1940 under the V-7 program and served aboard the USS NEW YORK. In June 1941 he enrolled in Midshipman School at Northwestern University. Commissioned Ensign in September 1941, his first duty was on board the USS SPICA (AK16). In February 1942 he was assigned to the USS HILO (AGP2) where he participated in PT boat opera- tions in the Central Pacific and New Guinea areas. He then served from February 1944 to July 1946 as Executive Offi- cer of the USS SHELIKOF (AVP52) and participated in the invasion of Okinawa. USS PACKAWAY (AP222) for duty as Executive Officer came next between October 1946 and February 1948. After General Line School at Monterey, California, he reported to the Bremerton Group, PACRESFLT in January 1949. In July 1949 he became Commanding Officer of the USS SUSSEX (AK213), serving in this capacity in the Alaska, Pacific and Korean areas until August 1951. He then reported to the U.S. Naval Academy as Security and Plans Officer. From there he was assigned as Exec- utive officer to the USS BROWNSON (DD868) in September 1953 and to the USS SHENANDOAH (AD26) in October 1954. Commander Weiler reported to the MASON as Com- manding Officer in May 1956. EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lieutenant Commander Thomas V. Kelly, USN was com- missioned Ensign in June 1943. His first duty was aboard the USS FANNING (DD385). In the Pacific and Indian Oceans throughout World War II, in January 1946 Mr. Kelly reported to the NROTC Unit at the University of New Mexico and in June of that year he transferred to the NROTC Unit at the University of Missouri. His next sea duty was aboard the USS JOHN W. THOMASON (DD760) in the Pacific from July 1948 to June 1950. He then reported to the Staff of COMDESRON ONE in the USS FLOYD B. PARKS (DD884). In August 1951 Mr. Kelly was reassigned to the Staff of COMDESFLOT THREE in the USS BRYCE CANYON {AD36). In October 1952 he reported to the Of- fice of CNO in the Pentagon for a two year tour, and in November 1954 he entered the General Line School, Mon- terey, California. Lieutenant Commander Kelly reported aboard the MASON in June 1955 to serve as Executive Officer.

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111.11 CREW. . . HER PURPOSE . . . Throughout the summer of 1956, LEONARD F. MASON worked an arduous schedule, exercising at the many tasks required of a proficient destroyer. Frequently it was difficult to understand the neces- sity for this rigorous training, and some complained about the interference with home life. On 8 Novem- ber, however, the need for this training was abruptly brought home to all; the crisis in the Middle East required the deployment of additional forces to the Western Pacific Area. On 13 November, MASON sailed for JAPAN, and MASON was ready. It might be noted that as the critical situation subsided and International tensions eased all other units were re- called, except MASON and DESTROYER DIVISION 32 whose training and readiness level was high enough so that they alone were sent to bolster the SEVENTH fleet. The first days of the cruise were marked by rough seas and a tough training schedule, but again MASON came through; and, as the seas calmed and as the ship reached that polished perfection for which all had striven, the enthusiasm of individuals gradually became the effectiveness of the team. It was not easy, but it was done. We could begin to enjoy the benefits of our trip — the same team effort at work was turned to recreation, and once again or for the first time we delved into the mysteries of the Orient. Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Hong Kong became familiar to us, and all hands and the ship ' s cook turned to with a will at the task of being ambassadors of good will. With the cruise behind you — for some the first, for some the last, and for some the latest — look back with pride, as veil you may, for a good job, accomplished under trying circumstances. In the words of the Navy ' s highest praise: WELL DONE. To all of you, good luck and smooth sailing al- ways. J. S. WEILER COMMANDER USN Commanding Officer •msasassspsmstrmmKammsnmimmnB

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