Lewis Hancock (DD 675) - Naval Cruise Book

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AZORES 11TH MAY- 12TH MAY After five days of sea and sky, the fog-shrouded green hills of the Azores came into view. Soon we were moored in Ponta Del Gada on the Island of San Miguel. The contrasting, and constantly changing scenery here offered vistas that seemed to have come from five different continents. Many pictures were taken of its beautiful lakes, green mountains, and fields that seemed to be multi-colored checkerboards. With the coming of dusk, the picturesque landscape disappeared to be replaced by sparsely glimmering lights that called out the virtues of German beer and the Gar- den of Eden dance hall. But as Cinderella ' s Fairy God Mother warned her to return from the bell at twelve, so did we return.

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MB Ifrfctf i f f 6TH MAY Slowly small groups began to form around the Quarterdeck as men tried to cram into the few remaining minutes the things that would go unsaid for many months. The word was passed, last goodbyes were said, and the crew reluctantly returned to the ship. As the last line was cast off and our fully armed and provisioned ship headed out into the stream, there was a moment of sadness in the hearts of many. To some, it meant months of separation and longing for loved ones; to others, it was the final step of an abbreviated Navy life. But at 1030 we were officially on our way to countries and cultures yet unknown to us. Soon the excitement of the departure was over and everyone settled down to a monotonous Atlantic crossing. The Atlantic was its usual exceptionally calm self and, at times, at least half of the crew could be seen manning the rails.

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Life! You speak Joe! Now where to? In your Easter bonnet