Mississippi (CGN 40) - Naval Cruise Book

Text from Pages 1 - 97 of the 1978 volume:

,Y ' .vu ,x., mx ? J , ICVEQF PAGE 2 3 7 I3 21 28 37 47 59 Contents CAPTAIN'S LETTER TO THE CREW SHIPS NAMED MISSISSIPPI CONSTRUCTION PRE-COM COMMISSIONING CARIBBEAN CRUISE 40 DAYS RIO CRUISE THE CREW T539 6 l 3 1 1 I l .1 xi Il ,....I,...a 2 I 5 I 5 I I I I COMMANDING OFFICER USS MISSISSIPPI CCGN 405 To the Ship's Company of USS MISSISSIPPI, their Families and Friends: SSIPPI has been in commission for slightly more than one USS MISSI . . year. During this period the spirit and reputation that will remain with her throughout her service life has been established. Although that reputation and spirit belong to the ship, they are made by the men who man her now and by others who have since departed. This book is about the fine Navymen who have made USS MISSISSIPPI the smart ship she is today. In all the years ahead, whether we advance in the f h Navy or return to civilian life, this book will recall memories o t e way we did it in USS MISSISSIPPI. In a new ship such as USS MISSISSIPPI, our experienced Officers, Chief Petty Officers and Petty Officers combine the best of their ex- tensive experience gained in a variety of ships over many years. This ' i 1 professional know-how becomes the basis of the new ship s funct ona organization and personality and is passed on to the new Navymen 1n the crew. From this combination we must learn to work together as a HShip's Companyn - a crew working as a team with a com on objective. This unique combination of HOld, Fuds, Young Studs, and Lieutenant Commandersn has met with singular success in USS MISSISSIPPI. Since commissioning, we have achieved a series of successes unmatched in recent memory. From our very successful trials performance, through our superior performance in Refresher Training, in our record-setting Gunnery Qualifications, our highly successful Missile and Torpedo firing exercises, our unprecedented participation in major fleet exercises, and our superior marks in the Supply Inspection, in Communications, and in our initial Operational Reactor Safeguards Examination, we have established a record of achievement that has already become a standard of excellence. Adding to this list of achievements our very successful Shakedown voyage to several South American and Caribbean cities and our position as a fleet leader in both retention and promotion, the sum spells nTeamworkn. Our successes did not come free of cost. We have all worked very long days and nights preparing for and sharpening our skills in antici pation of our requirements. We have traveled great distances together Since our beginning. learning to pull together as a HShip's Companyn in both work and play. We now have a ship of which we can all be 1:5555 PFiUd HOU Only in her accomplishments to date but most Wepwilingdg in ger capabilities for the future. In the years ahead of excellencg ee? Eiiwlng reputation, carrying on that tradition 1841 yet alwa SS a Shed by all ??lPS named MISSISSIPPI ever since Crewi,, Y remem erlng that A ship is only as good as her With all best wishes for the future, P. M. HEKMAN, JR. Captain, U. S. Navy Commanding Officer History I X III' 1 ff' sie TI-Ie first MISSISSIPPI a side wheel steamer, was 220 feet long, displaced 3,220 tons, ond was Iaid down by I d I h Y rd inlI839' built under the personal supervision of Commodore Matthew C. Perryg commissioned Phiaepia Navy a I 22 December I84l, Captain W. D. Salter in command, and launched several weeks later. Af s eral ears of service in the Home Squadron, during which she performed experiments crucial to the tr ev y develosment of the steam Navy, MISSISSIPPI Ioined the West Indian Squadron In 'I845 as Flagship for Commodore . . . . . d d Perr . During the Mexican War, she took part in expeditions against Alvarado, Tamplco, Panuco, an Laguna o Y Ios Terminos, all successful in tightening American control of the Mexican coastline and interrupting coastwise commerce and military supply operations. She returned-to Norfolk for repairs I January I847, then arrived Vera Cruz 2l March carrying Perry to take command of'the American Fleet. At once she and her men plunged into amphibious operations against Vera Cruz, supplying guns and their crews to be taken ashore for the battery which fought the city to surrender in four days. Through the remainder of the war, MISSISSIPPI contributed guns, men, and boats to a series of coastal raids on Mexico's east coast, taking part in the capture of Tobasco in June. MISSISSIPPI cruised the Mediterranean during 'I849 - SI, then returned to the United States to prepare for service as Flagship in Commodore Perry's momentous voyage to Japan. The squadron cleared Hampton Roads 24 November 1852, for Madeira, the Cape of Good Hope, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, which was reached 4 May 1853. - The squadron now approached Japan by calls in the Ryukyus and Bonins, and entered Tokyo Bay 8 July I853. Commodore Perry proceeded, in one of the most difficult, skillful, and significant navalfdiplomatic missions ever recorded, to negotiate a trade treaty with the Japanese, hitherto absolutely opposed 'to opening their country to Western trade and influence. After further cruising in the Far East, MISSISSIPPI and the squadron returned to Japan 'I2 February 'I854 and 3'l March the Treaty of Kanagawa was signed. MISSISSIPPI retUrr1eCl to New York 23 April I855, and again sailed for the Far East I9 August 'I857,t0 bCI5e at Shanghai and patrol in support of America's burgeoning trade with the Orient. As Flagship for Commodore Josiah Tattnall, she was present during the British and French attack on the Chinese forts at Taku in June 1859, and two months later she landed a force at Shanghai when the American consul requested her aid in restoring order to the city, torn by civil strife. Sheureturned to ordinary at Boston in I860, but was reactivated when the Civil War become inevitable. She arrived off Key West to institute the blockade there 3 June I86I, and five days later made her first capture, schooner FOREST KING bound with coffeen from Rio de Janeiro to New Orleans. On 27 NOVeml99l'f0II N0 fI e0S'f PGSS, MiSSiSSiPpi River, she IOIFWCIIVINCENNES in capturing British bark EMPRESS, again carrying coffee from Rio to New Orleans. The following spring she ioined Farragut's squadron for the planned assQUIf an New OI'IeUII5' Ahe' Several UITBFTIPTS, on 7 April I862 she and PENSACOLA successfully passed over the bar at Southwest Pass, the heaviest ships ever to enter the river to that time. A5 FUVICIQUI bV0U9I'Ii his fleet UP the river, a key engagement was that with Forts Jackson and St.PhiliP 24 April, during WIIICIII MISSISSIPPI 'CII Confedefafe Wm MANASSAS ashore, wrecking her with two mighty broadsides. The city was now doomed, and MISSISSIPPI, her heavy draft making her less suitable to river operations than IIQIIIGI' ships, remained off New Orleans for much of the next year. 'Ordered upriver for the operations against Port Hudson, MISSISSIPPI sailed with six other s ips, PCIVS while She sailed alone. On I4 March IS63, she grounded while attempting to pass the forts gU0fdII'I9 POII I'IUd,50I'I- Undef enemy fire, every effort was made to refloat her by her commanding Officer Captain Melancthorl SITIIIIII End his executive officer, later to be famed as Admiral George Dewey. At last her machinery was destroyedhhijr BTHGYY S-Pllfed, and she was fired to prevent Confederate capture. When the flames reached her magazmeS,5 ' ew up and sank, losing 64 of her crew, the ships in company saving 223. I-I' lashed irl l The second MISSISSIPPI IBB-231 was 382 feet long, displaced 13,000 tons, carried a complement of 744, had a top speed of 17 knots, and was laid down 12 May 1904 by William Cramp 8. Sons, Philadelphia, Pa., launched 30 September 1905, sponsored by Miss M. C. Money, daughter of Senator H. P. Money of Mississippi, and commissioned at Philadelphia Navy Yard 1 February 1908, Captain J. C. Fremont in command. Following shakedown off the coast of Cuba, 15 February to 15 March 1908, the new battleship returned to Phila- delphia for final fitting out. Standing out I July, she operated along the New England coast, until returning to Philadelphia I0 September. The warship put to sea 16 January 1909 to represent the United States at the inaugu- ration ofthe President of Cuba at Havana, 25 to 28 January. MISSISSIPPI remained in the Caribbean until 10 Febru- ary, sailing that day to ioin the Great White Fleet as it returned from its famous world cruise. With the fleet on Washington's Birthday, the battlewagon was reviewed by President Theodore Roosevelt. On I March she returned to the Caribbean. The ship departed Cuban waters 1 May for a cruise up the river which shared her name, the mighty Mississippi. Calling at the major ports of this great inland waterway, she arrived at Natchez 20 MOY, and then proceeded five days later to Horn Island where she received a silver service from the State of Mississippi.Returning to Phila- delphia 7 June, the battleship operated off the New England coast until sailing 5 January 1910 for winter exercises and war games out of Guantanamo Bay. The battleship departed 24 March for Norfolk and operated off the East Coast until fall, calling at a number of large ports, serving as a training ship for Naval Militia, and engaging in maneuvers and exercises designed to keep the ship and crew in the finest possible fighting trim. She departed Philadelphia I November for a fleet rendezvous at Gravesend Bay, England, 16 November, and then sailed 7 December for Brest, France, arriving on the 9th. On 30 December, MISSISSIPPI set course for Guan- tanamo Bay for winter maneuvers until I3 March 1911. Returning to the United States, the battleship operated off the Atlantic Coast, basing alternately out of Phila- delphia and Norfolk for the next year and two months, serving as a training ship and conducting operational exer- . , . d cises. She cleared Tompkinsville, New York 26 May 1912 with a detachment from the 2nd Marine Regiment on boar to protect American interests in Cuba. Landing her Marine Detachment at El Cuero 19 June, she remained on station in Guantanamo Bay until 5 July, when she sailed for home. Following exercises with the 4th Battleship Division off New England, she returned to Philadelphia Navy Yard where she was put in the 1st Reserve 1 August 1912. MISSISSIPPI remained in the Atlantic Reserve Fleet at Philadelphia until detached 30 December 1913 for duty as aeronautic station ship at Pensacola, Florida. Departing 6 January 1914, the battleship arrived 21 January, transporting equipment for the establishment of a naval air station. At Pensacola, She stood by while her crew, along with the early naval aviators, rebuilt the old naval base, laying the foundation forthe largest and most famous American naval air station. With the outbreak of fighting in Mexico, MISS SS sa first detachment of naval aviators to go into combat. Serving as a floating base for the fledgling seaplanes and their pilots, the warship launched nine reconnaissance flights over the area during a period of eighteen days, making the first flight 12 May. One month later, the battleship departed Vera Cruz for Pensacola. Serving as station ship he then sailed north to Hampton Roads where she transferred her aviation gear to armored I IPPI iled 21 April to Vera Cruz, arriving onthe 24th with the there from 15 to 28 June, s cruiser NORTH CAROLINA ICA-121, 3 July. On the 10th, MISSISSIPPI shifted to Newport News to prepare for transfer to the Greek Government. MISSIS- SIPPI decommissioned at Newport News 21 July 1914, and was turned over to the Royal Hellenic Navy the same day. Renamed LEMNOS, the battleship served for the next seventeen years as a coast defense vessel. She was b A I 1941 d, after World War II, her hull was sunk in an air attack by German bombers on Salamis Har or in pri 5 an salvaged as scrap. i- - 'I 1 L . - ga.-1, ,hh 4 ,, , - lr I I , displaced 32,000 tons, had a top speed of 21 knots and The third MISSISSIPPI iBB 4tIlh: floii4 ofeilei- C23-ee,r. She was laid down 5 April 1915 by Newport News Ship- carried 1,081 officers and men o New on News, Virginia, and was launched 25 January 1917, sponsored by Miss building and Dry Dock Comiasasnibhed 1gDecember 1917, CUPWIII -l' l-' Layne ln command' V Cdmelle McBeaihi mid comlfllV' ' io MISSISSIPPI steamed 22 March 1918 for training in the Gulf of Guacanoyabof Following exercises of urgin , olHcmPfo,., Roads and cruised between Boston and New York until departin l V I . g Cuba. One month later sl: rglrpbebdecrn 31 Januafy 1919. On 19 July she left the Atlantic seaboard and sailed for . e for winter maneuvers ln I h new base San Pedro, she operated along the West Coast for the next four years, ' ' Q ef I , l fha West Coast.lb,trrivi3gJrin the wime, months for training exercises. . entering the Cari ean - 9 12 June 1924 off Sqn Pedro, forty eight of her men were asphyxiated as a result of During 9unneLY Prsctige :Zip bcnery Turret' Un 15 April 1925 she sailed from San Francisco for war games off l ' 'n er O an exp eslon l ' - 'II Sh returned to the West Coast 26 September and resumed H I ood wi tour. e I I 1 Hawaii, ond then steamed to Austra IC on a . . d h f e H sailed into Caribbean and Anemia operations . - - th . . ' for exerclses durmg lhedwtiinhfblllcorliiatfy Yord 30 March 1931 for a modernization overhaul. dePartir19 once ogq-in on PPI ntere OI' MISSISSI e 1933 T anslfln fhe Panama Canal 24 October 1934, she steamed back to her base . . - ' b . I' 9 . . . training egerclgesin Slziegevegn years She operated off the West Coast, except for winter Caribbean cruises. or 9 of San Pe 'O' I I ' in the North Atlantic. Steaming from Newport . 19411 she prepared for patro service , Returning to NOYIOII4 I5 -ll-me ' - I d h . 7 d G convoy to Hvqlflordur Iceland. She made another trip to Iceland 28 September 1941, Rhd I an seescore ' O 8 5 I . - - h th otectmg shipping. N D . and 'lepenldillle mjffelrwflhgoflfbascheibiisprattack on Pearl- HGFIDOYI MISSISSIPPI lefl Iceland fo' lllle Pecllle' A V'I'I9 a s J wo 1942 t San Francisco she spent the next seven months training and escorting convoys along the coast. 22 anuary 0 ' . -- ' he Fi'i Islands - - ' ' s off Hawaii, she steamed with troop transports to t l , On 6 D ber after POFYICIPCITIUQ In exerclse . . . seem ' I ' ' I Harbor to participate in a move to restore I h 1943. On 10 May she sailed from PBOI' rzlurgllnglio Pez'llrsirrbiigitllbclriaossessors. Kiska Island was shelled 22 July, and 0 Iew CIUYS IGIGI' The Jdponese f e eu :ans . - ' Af o erhaul at San Francisco, MISSISSIPPI sailed from San Pedro 19 October to take part inthe llvllhdiew' f JS Gmben Islands While bombarding Makin 20 November, a turret explosion, almost identical to the Invasion 0 ' ' 'll d 43 - . earlglrm tgilgjjzgclil T944 2:3 took part in the Marshall Islands campaign, shelling Kwaialeln. She bombarded Taroo 20 February and struck Wotle the next day. On 15 March she POUVN'-led Kavlengf New Ireland' Due fu' an overhaul' h for the next six Years. During Ilils Perle 5 e lequ n Y wafers t ere h t th I mmer months at Puget Sound. Q s egpinmine ig the war zone' Mlsslsslppl Supported landings on Peleliu, in the Palau Islands, on 12 September. After a weelgof continuous operations she steamed to Manus, where she remained until 12 October. Departing Manus, she assisted in the liberation of the Philippines, shelling the east coast of Leyte on 19 Oelelief- On 'lie n'9l'll' el the 24th, as part of Admiral Oldendorf's batt.Ie line, she helped to destroy o powerful .l0P0I1e5el05kI:9I'ee91l'l'le Battle of Suriago Strait. As a result of the engagements at Leyte Gulf, the Japanese navy was no longer able to mount any serious offensive threat. MISSISSIPPI continued to support the operations at Leyte Gulf until 16 November, when she steamed to the Admiralty Islands. She then entered San Pedro Bay, Leyte, 28 December, to prepare for the landings on Luzon. On 6 January 1945 she began bombarding in Lingayan Gulf. Despite damages near her waterline received from the crash ofa suicide plane, she sup- ported the invasion forces until 10 February. Fol- lowing repairs at Pearl Harbor, she sailed to Nakagusuku Wan, Okinawa, arriving 6 May to support the landing forces there. Her powerful guns leveled the defenses at Shuri Castle, which had stalled the entire offensive. On 5 June, a kamikaze crashed into her starboard side, but the fighting ship continued to support the troops at Okinawa until 16 June. After the announced surrender of Japan, MISSIS- SIPPI steamed to Sagami Wan, Honshu, arriving 27 August as part of the support occupation force. She anchored in Tokyo Bay, witnessed the signing of the surrender documents, and steamed for home on 6 5ePIemlDer. She arrived 27 November at Norfolk, where she underwent conversion to AG-128, effective 15 Fel9I'Ue'Y 1946. As part of the operational development force, she spent the last ten carrying out investigations of gunnery problems and ' fesilng new We0Pons. while based at Norfolk. She years of her career helped launch the Novy into the age of the guided I I' I ii sg I missile warship when she successfully test fired the I X Al' L Terrier missile on 28 January 1953 off Cape Cod, Sli, Clio assisted in the final evaluation of the Petrel, a ra ar-homing missile, in February 1956. MISSISSIPPI decommissioned at Norfolk 17 Sei-'tember 1956, ond was sold for scrapping to the Bethlehem Steel Co. on 28 November, the some year. MISSISSIPPI received eight battle stars for World WUI' ll service. ' 5 5:ff1i5f?i Wie' VIL.-s..f.4,....a - - , 7 -.1-A 1--Tv -13:4-wigs-V, . 'ff A L . ,... F, , ff--gt 'Q 'fb -YH-ffl' in ,K.v,- ,, .,1?,,g4 .4- Construction IILLL LHIIIIU an uni.. ..-'------ Newport News ShlPl9U'Id'n9 I r , X255 44 YP' is ill! Senator 5-'om Mississippi, John C. Stennis, Chairman, Armed Services Committee, delivers the principal address at the launching ceremony for the nuclear powered Guided Missile Cruiser, USS MISSISSIPPI, CGN-40, at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. of Naval Reactors, - Admiral Hyman C. Rickover, DITBCIOT, Division cks durihg The , - ' gpe Energy Research Gnd Development Administration' launching ceremony. 1 z-Micah' M Miss Janet Finch, Sponsor, assisted by Mr. John P. Diesel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Newport News Ship- building, christens the MISSISSIPPI- In the background are Senator Harry F. Byrd, Jr., of Virginia, Senator John C. Stennis of Mississippi and Miss Virginia Anne Finch, Maid of Honor. The two Misses Finch are daughters of Governor Charles C. Finch of Mississippi. SI I v L6 ' +A.. , 5 ,. 'Ya f th ,. -I iv-X ' . ...fl-me i MW' ' .1 -ana.-fs an, A I I I ,, V it F if W 9'- I - W C W - H ,, , ,, ' i V I , .ffl , ...if .. , . f , ..z , 4' iw V , ' ' ', f - Exif '451- i,A..Mf if 9' l'x...21- ' 3' 4, 'M -..MM - ,Q ., fr M -' , ,AW -V , V ,sw ,V A Mt ,W Y -', , ' if 4u,.,,'e3g,g fs., ' ' , r . , 'I -Y..--' ' f 7fI I , K The mission of uss MISSISSIPPI is to operate offensively in fbi presence of air, surface, or subsurface threats independently or wit nuclear powered or conventional strike forces, and to provide protection uss MISSISSIPPI icon-405 is the third Ship in 0 new Class of Nuclear Powered Guided Missile Cruisers, the VIRGINIA class. The nuclear propulsion plum provides MISSISSIPPI with high speed endurance which is vital to our Navy's nuclear powered task force concept. The first nuclear reactors installed contain sufficient fuel for about ten Years of 0P9 0iI0 l- to these forces and other naval forces or convoys against air, surface, or subsurface threats. She is the eighth nuclear powered cruiser to be built for the Navy. si To accomplish her designed mission, MISSISSIPPI is equipped with a fully integrated Combat System combining four elements: target de- , Y. d.. . ec ion, igital data processing, command and control, and weapons control. Weapons delivery is accomplished with two multi-purpose dual arm guided missile launching systems with ASROC iAnti-Submarine Rocketsl capability, two 5 f54 calibre lightweight gun mounts, two three barrel torpedo launchers, and a LAMPS iLight Airborne Multi- Purpose Systeml helicopter. Keeping MISSISSIPPI in the h' h ig est state of operational readiness is the iob of the 37 officers and 500 enlisted men who comprise her crew. It is these men who will write the history of this latest ship to b ear the name MISSISSIPPI. ,.,- ' , 1 Lv' 'si X. N., N w 4.-.Mn w i I2 5 ' 'vfv V3.1 I'i,f'., HA' 43,1 , M , QT-H Q ' x - ' ff - A+ ,At 5, vg I, Tw-.Ugg-I ,, Pre-Bom k U I 3.....,,,,,.u-n-.nc.,.:1.s,..,,.....y....s...se--A-A ff-- SKCS Cook instructs SK2 Ferries and SK2 Williams in PFOPBV 5UPPlY Procedufes in the Mississippi Supply Office in the Pre-Commissioning building. The pre-commissioning crew readied the operational procedures for MlSSlS' SlPPl while the shipyard busily worked to make the ship habitable. SKl Gary Doan was the first crew member to report aboard. He and other newly arrived supply personnel quickly set up what we now know as the Supply Department, perhaps the most important section of a pre-commissioning crew. The other departments quickly formed in the Precom Nucleus crew. The de- partments set up shop in the Stratford Arms building on 33rd and West Street. The remainder of the crew arrived for duty in January and February of 'l978. This Balance crew attended Fire- fighting, Damage Control and many other schools which are necessary for life aboard a Navy ship. The balance crew started working on the ship in April and May with the completion of their schools, and were transported by bus to and from their home of Independence Hall on the Norfolk Naval Base. The month of Moy brought the move aboard and unification of the MISSIS- SIPPI Nucleus and Balance crews. Ship- board life was a new adventure for over half the crew but the adjustment went smoothly. Shipboard watches were a big part of the adiustment needed to be made for the crew to become efficient in the operation of the ship. A big emphasis was placed on Personnel Qualification Standards to ensure proficiency in the men's iobs. 14 Vikkikk pp H l VEPAHTXEAT L. E -Fw-'W WEE! ,xxx an 51529 4 nl. . Q S F il. ,l ,ni Q. x ,g,:-v X-f, Lunclwfime always offers a good session of Salty stories. Clean-up is cn every day occurrence. Love is the leading chief in Operaiions Depariment - Navigafifm diV5Sl0 l- Qs kk i X' .. ll ,X . i. X ss aj 15 so xx 1 - -.ver--W 11 -n- 19 N 1 Administration plays a big port in 0 Pre-Commissioning crew. The paperwork kept YNSN Outland busy. C ,4 ETCS Anderson is a key Engineering Department chief v L. P F L L lr l lt L, l K A L., me CM Y' s 16 The Career Counselor, NCC Armstrongtlfa' fighn T: CO nference with officers and Chief Petty Officus Y Sig' it r- 's ,, ,V ., X di.. SH3 Bethune studies a Sl'1ip's Servicemen's manual. Studying was an important element in preparing the crew for duty. W , , 0 .r, ,.qpuvov-v wAs- 8 BMC Gilley listens in on a tactics conversation from Lt. Jewell, the CI X. h 'bf W' ,W-, C Officer. ICFN Wilder explains to ICl Himes where he ran the telephone cable. I7 if x ai.. SH3 Bethune studies a Ship's Servicemen's manual. Studying was an important element in preparing the crew for duty. X 4 Mpunvnvwv' -WWW, , ,fy M W 74 BMC Gilley listens in on a tactics conversation from Lt. Jewell, the CIC Officer. ' if i ,n Q p ! M 1- ' N M '41 revi- , .-, 7 Y.. QCFN Wilder explains to ICl Himes where he ran the telephone cable. I7 r i l Y z K 4 1 A I E 3 x s 1 5 I 5 A I I 6 HKU: us-. ug-v g,-1 y , , f-. ,M c- ,lv W , l 4 A ,,,. ,,,, - , ,, , ya' , - f , 1.1 ,Www - fy! X ff ,, , N My wry, wi, Vw .K - .. , X , , - Q ,WW WW 7 I ,, W , 1341! , WWA, ,, 'MDR M FH' Q ,sg ' if In K, -,gm f x 1, o A weekend for the balance crew was the only time to relax from the rigors of school. S , 'I8 2 ----I1 Q1 M I B 'J NSW ' N-I ,W-:ping my L T' 'wr 42' ' Volleyball was a regular occurrence at lunchtime in the parking lot. Y'5 'l . ,, lv A- ' - ' --'----vw , Hu-f W4 ,g,W,,,,,W vw, , ,, , ,W 4 f V r-Q 1' I a-94 -' U A , 4 6 X-D. if ll sents the key to the ship to Rear Admiral Eustace The supervisor of shipbuilding, W. T. O'Nei pre and Captain Hekmann ,mf USSMSSISSIPRI ZiiliSEH Eiflillli ' The 5hlPY9l'd welcomed us back after our outstanding Performance in sea trials. 20 4' 1 , l S X Q 4419116 log 6 si Commissioning Captain Peter M. Hekman, Commanding Officer, passes an a bit of information to President James Earl Carter, Jr., during a tour of the ship prior tothe commissioning ceremony. V ,H I '4 za sim Q , Q f' 5 if ,...,-sf'- f ,-v-- ,,,,,,,.wnv , C afA,,,,,,,,o-ww i 4. Presideni Carter and Admiral Rickover at the r f Commissioning Ceremony. 9 'Qf 19 Vg-P, C T' .if i as ., 9 0' 'H sux V- fs As' . un K Guests seated on the pier for the MISS ' ' ' ' ISSIPPI Commissioning Ceremony. USS NIMITZ fCVN'68i I5 mowed m 'he backgro 24 Q54 fm N' ' 2 S' , 1 1 si Sgxjlbix i lx Fi A ik 1 x x QA :MQ X, ww X, f 5 my v nuns 12 6 inn ,w,,w,. x WMM N X . Q X'-S 149'ri X 1s -m,M.5. X Y xx x Q QA , Q QQSWX, A A 5:4 Wy fwsmvfwavf x Y Q f , K in 4 3 x Y : 'ISSN L I 4 L. -:S . J 'Si .1 m 9 , 'I' 1 26 'Tw Q ' 1-+ 4 'ff , , v r. ,, fi Ar Q ' , . :wif -0 Wi! -, X 9. Q I me 'Q'-QQ.. qv-W-Y--.M .- -M K ' jx' -' ' N ..- ..,, f.,,x,......,,. , --., . x Q, f---..,,.,, f ., . ...,,.,u-MN -NN X xr-v--..,.,,.,---.-.N.N...,,wQ,-'Q , E----.f......,,,,,...,s,,,N-4: - M-N....x QQ dun.-A 1.9 A 1 -an i ,!'E'-flip ll 5' W -ww ' Qf+z?'3+ if Q' , f , ' ' x: l5bSii U x f 5 X . ,M , , - A uw M--' . . . ,--fm. ,, '.f'i'- ' . . -4' .:. -' ',. , , f 14 '- ,,!,1,mI, h,,, - fy, ?gdefS?f?5 'fQg ' 13- . ,bl 1 13 49 'HL If :'ff ,!f'f 1 ' f 1 ' . ,, ' it ',' :'4'-K ' ' :Ni-'11-.'3.-Q' ' ,- ' J f4Q1i.P7 ly- FW'-'Q 'Mum V A -' ' f 7'lh.e3.I-.1 f lkffmff wa' 5 4 . r . A I ,. ,K .iw 63,1 ,, ., .:,,T,q ,filfisi-r!::,,,3 . ,- ,Tw-5, ,. :Air . ,ix- pt' iWx,.,1, HL: -J Y . . 'LII I ,,..iH.!,f1f!'f M A' wa- 4.-+ 3. , , . I, ' 2... q....- V - 1, 'Hui V. 5 f.,- , W ' A 'fl ,gf , 1-.va '11 ' ' ,f :,- . f -u 1 Q-551: -, ,.. , FQ' K XVY: .,fZ':w'f15i g X - rr , f Q k - . , -. i Wi w- , X , .0 QsLk,,,g,X,.un- Ji. Q 'M ., 2. M ,MW 'S wwMl'U?RV w., W 7'fffi .2 if , .N-f Af ,, ,, - wx ,fm I 'X Caribbean 1, - ,A ld.,-4, ,-,-Y '19- W -...i.........i.-. St. Thomas St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, the three islands that make up the U,S, Virgin Islands, were previously French and English colonies. St. Thomas is the largest of the three. MlSSlSSlPPI crew members found more to spend their time and money on in St. Thomas than in Guantanamo Bay.Many lounged on the beach at Megan's Boy or went to the Sea Aquarium during the day and visited the luxurious clubs by night. Two of the more popular clubs were the Frenchman's Reef and Bluebeard's Costle. Snorkling and scuba-diving were very popular on this island resort which is said to have the most beautiful waters in the Caribbean. The men were ioined on the beaches by passengers from the Pacific Princess which pulled in the same day MISSISSIPPI did. Some crew members had a chance to visit the luxury liner. St. Thomas life is a mixture of the very old and very new life styles. The endless rows of stores in downtown Charlotte Amalie which are filled with shopping tourists during the day become ghost-like after 6 p.m. but the night life is straight out of the Riveria. St. Thomas was truly a port that will be remembered by the officers ond men of USS MISSISSIPPI. wsu' .IS fpwwrra- ' vm, fc xr 'j ., 30 ., 6 X 'XX , X ku Q x l ,, 3 F x X A XX X - - - MN. M :'. x5is.n'wC' x . fx! 'M N G' 35 ,-,V-f 5 W x x Neg X . x N 'Nl' . N EA, ., .M ,. ,. X Vw: ,AMY ,., ,f,, x- ,.-14, x, fm f , vin WW .ff 5 .M wwf: x ,wwf ,,,, X ,Mx 4 f l Mm , MMM, 'W Nassau in the Bahama Islands was the final port visit of MISSlSSIPPl's first cruise. Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas located on the island of New Providence. As we .cruised towards the island-paradise it was easy to see why it has won so much reknown. The waters were aqua blue and crystal clear, the beaches were of sun-bleached sand and the foliage was a vivacious green. Shopping for souvenirs was a popular daytime event second, of course, to beach dwelling.. Nassau, unlike its Caribbean counterparts, was more expensive, but it was a small price compared to the enioyment that was had bygthe crew. The night life was not to be outdone, either. On neighboring Paradise Island, the hotels lifted twenty stories above the beachfront. As in San Juan, some of the hotels included casinos to compliment the fine restaurants and lounges, like the Playboy Club in the Ambassador Beach Hotel. Before we left to head home, many crew members got a taste of the Royal Navy by visiting the HMS BIRMINGHAM which was moored at the Naval Base. l 32 5 Q. f-nk' :A f y?5'2-N, 'ii , 4 f T 'Scif Q 'Q 15 f--- V Gitmo Dying shy rv-cm?-Q QI Cancer JP-J Novofnbofl MISSISSSPFW eco 'Nav Inv gyuggg gdgfdq :bg gem r-qnvqk ,,'w+!od Sfqygg, H .gg sho Lu! Img cf., ao Im lhq malorny QI :ho cvs-. The Inu pan no 9-3503 'nu -ca e nammg 9011, G.,oMona'fs Buy, C.-ba, Iocorcd on We souiesuom F-SU! :I We .Hand In sho pw- 'vco ci Ce-owe. Ggamanamg Hg, psowdoa on-:o'5or-11 y'Ql'fOUHd nammg Im Uno! vnu. Tha omphos-a In GITUG I3 G1 5Gf'l2S Connol. Four boHIc probh' 61155: new I'voId durmg our Hay, a-fd We Us-'age Con1roI Parvms, U5dlY vie Cf1Y0C9'C-N c.I LV. Parrnh, rho Dc:-ago Cqmwml Ag- srnom on board, oorfwd wma: Q4 F7 for day one, SO for do-,f 1-o, 75 Irv 'I-vo !I'1vrd and 3JIorvI'1QIn-averefcveo. THQ wqqnhqr .gg 179.595 Im Ike COYIBBQOH IsIohd, Fo! and awww. Gamm- Oanoffvc Soft ocvfvn-es '1a9uvoIIy Iefafwd foward: 'Ho ou!-of-dams, GII-sf-ng 9I'!Q9 beaches, boo: fm-IQQI, Ilghmg cn-fi cmdgqf Yheovres. Erdfonqe and Cwwf-Iumy P I99ll wwe fJIso o-1o1IcbIe odd MISSISSIPPI men couIf.I buy souvewn olong wah :HQ necessmqq. 34 0 MlSSlSSlPPI's next port of call was Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico. Rosie Roads is located in Ceiba, Puerto Rico on the southeastern part ofthe island. San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and the largest city on the islancl. MISSISSIPPI Special Services committee provided buses at a very low cost tothe men to take them to and from San Juan. San Juan is also a mixture ofthe very old and very new. Old San Juan takes a tourist back to the days of early explorers. The architecture of the 1500's is preserved so well that people still live in buildings that housed Spanish nobles 400 years ago. Some of the places of interest in Old San Juan include El Moro Castle, the Governor's Mansion and Ponce cle Leon's estate. New San Juan catapults the tourist into ultra- modern hotels, restaurants and night clubs. Five to ten minutes from the San Juan International Airport, hotels like the Hotel San Juan and the Holiday Inn offer everything an international tourist could ask for under one roof. Exquisite restau- rants, lounges with live Latin entertainment and casinos for the Lucky people in the crowd. wg Eye U Ain ,.. 2 our ll-eff .. 'Aiw- 35 - W., -1-I 5 :HQ . N. If 0575 HGN U- ' 1' Jn ipixwnsvrhwsmng .::.:sg,ggQsm f I . The refurn of USS MISSISSIPPI after her first extended voyage was o merry one. 36 .5 5 WI -5 5 ,.'?,l 'v.8's-,KA , I b I ,gI.J f3-'fr L -U7 Q KX.. f rr' 40 Days Tying to the pier is always a happy occasion. PHOTOS - OF THE CREW, BY THE CREW, FOR THE CREW . . . RMT Bryant reads the proclamation to RMT Schofield 38 W Ll' lMCl Hflwley and his new image. f . .. ,,:a-5,14 vm . , '-H..-L .-'3.5 39 5 40 THE WEATHER WAS GOOD! BADI AND DIFFERENT TF 1 i 1 v 5 3 r i 1 5 5 1 i -anal, 1 WPIKN 5.1 , k i QW? ' - A.X.p:2i-A H ,AJ , , U. K f1 1'X'fl i:4'Ak,.A A fig: ',',,Mff ,, , iw , . ' w1L5ff, ,- if M 1,314 ,-!, 1 L3-QEWW., V - , TT' ,, 'f ' gs L pq ' V' If-ew, ,h .gigpff-hf+f - 11 . - -,fa 3-r d-MIQKK 4 fgum rf,,W.wf ri. 1. A , , vm-1: ,Rpm 4 VM, s M1 1-,u ff.'E',,3li-.E?'L'sj ,1,1.Lk5 'i fx ,,. v 1 , N -an-. . .4-'Lk ? K S X. U, S. -ww-.N un ,A 1-42' J,-J .L, 9?,WWw.' ,' 5 if 5 7 155 'ff 5 FWF' , , s W ll' I ll :- E?'?T?4Z? l,',1I'f.2 -Qmsvr if 1457 gg. ag: f gm' -Ai ' W Y 4 wg., l 'DQS 'i I h ...I- A nu p . WW, 1 1 ,A Rio Cruise .- l -.. THE BEAUTY CONTEST AT THE EQUATOR. c K? 1 The Queen and King Start off the day right: Enioy a wholesome breakfast. The Royal Court You can't miss the Royal Ba u o a by 0 goo llx 'neon eeexq 000990030 MX vso.f..J:aa 5 Yllooooeeauv ooeooooee X .4,0,, He was fhe bravest of fhem all. You even get checked by the Royal Dgmisg, QS' 1 x 4 P I 1 I I I I 1 ...A 'M-J L M4 ,Q f 4 N MRMNA ., X xw . xxx. Rx XX. . VS xx A x, w If Q ,V X 4, iw .sf 3. Sl , Thu Rsvor of Juno-my bvvof hnown as Rio do ,Sanrio fa 'Pio second largest city in Bro: F. QM Jdnanry lb, its .Iii Ni lfuem pep,- lotion increased by 456 an gf-5 MiSSiSSlPPi puliod into Cuofwbev.: Bay. The 50-story ahyscropafa -on naturally the inn pun at Fi c Q. bo soon. To man, ci 'P-o ua.. momborx Rio resembles Nia 3:45. Crfy btcouso ci U-Q onparxaa ui shining :Neil tc-ofifag 5: an omg Yihiid glagg 1.5 as IC vv-,Qt yr' ' cloudx. 4 Mount Corcovodqfg only mm,-,i,,,,,,,U,J ,,l,,p,,x f is from tho Hoop-ng F,,,-,M 'MQ ,il 4 I 'T 'U Mfiurvtqint cabl. co' !'6,i 'H' P01885 Rr! fir !vf,7'N 7 f YL! hone Sf, Qiyg Summit 0-f tho r'wGunt'lm.. Fmfv Htilq mnlfn up QL. nsllipinq f,,qnQl.i nfi! inf th. ymqdl rpms, tlwimqftv and Sugarloaf, the i-ones. Ungar M,-,f,,,, ,NH ,y.,,,,,,,,q a new James Elifid film fm if-,, ,,.,,,,,,. F 1, ,n ,., ,Z , W were than, and YTTGUV ,3,,.,, mamymq W Nd H ' 1 F' wt him and got his Uufngrqpht 52 rd 4 'K l nv b'.VA J..- vl 'Ho ' VX 'The nun peeked through the clouds only one duy dining our six day visit. On more than one Ulf0hlUf'i tha sidewalks were cleared of visitors by she monsoon type rains. The min, however, did not deter mony members oi MISSISSIPPI. The Statue oi Christ the Redeemer, shed the cloudi, icing enough for picture taking and visiting. Tha Btotue reigned from atop Mount Corcovado, and in vu-w captured oll of the city and surrounding rfvurwityrmda, S 5 5 A -x Qui S fi f42'4?1 h MW L .5 fggq I 53 5 n tgp' Q? 0 1' if-wr has 1f fi ' 1 ' MTN The port of Willemstad, Curacao in the Nether- V ' lands Anfilleg Islands was perhaps the most 4 v Xxx mysyerious of all our previous port visits. Only a X X handful of Crew members had visited this Dutch colgny in the Caribbean. The harbor as we transited through towards our docking pier was traditionally Dutch, with the narrow downtown avenues, brightly painted facades and cobblestone streets. The city's walking pontoon bridge swung open as our ship passed. We docked at the Royal Netherlands Naval Base for our brief stay. The ship rented buses and drivers to carry the men to and from downtown, and buses received quite a lot of business after the fares of the taxis were noted. The downtown area housed a few hotels but was mainly occupied by shops. Every type of store from an open air market to fine iewelry shops, were located in the small downtown. Although many items were more expensive than in the United States, bargains were still to be found. Some of MlSSlSSlPPI's men remembered that it was an island, and took advantage of the water sports, such as swimming, snorkling, beach dwelling and even cliff diving. Some men also checked out the surrounding islands of Aruba and Bonaire, which are said to have the nicest beaches in the Caribbean. Willemstad was the first chance for crew members to indulge themselves in a Big Mac since departure from the U,S, We, 'F' 4 4 ei. . ,gh X ,fu ,f W Q s 51 56 Cartagena Colombia tl The port of Cartagena, Colombia is qlmosf as infrequently visited as Willemstad. The population Of fl1iS Colombian port is about 200,000 people. There are two sections of the city which are connected by a thin strip of land about two miles long. The old section, where the liberty boats landed, is the lesser expensive of the two, however, it was said to be dangerous after dusk. The newer city, a bit more expensive, was where the more fashionable nightclubs were found. Many of the men took advantage of the bargains on gifts that had not been as prevalent in the other ports we visited. It was also the last chance to shop before arriving in the continental U,S, The most popular item seemed to be the woolen poncho, ranging in price from S4 to Sl5. But many other handmade gifts, such as bracelets, wall hangings and hats were also very popular. For the sightseers, there were many old churches, statues and castles in and surrounding the city. There were also some very nice beaches on the shores of the new city. Y' an lg 1 'Q i och 1 iii lf. Homec f? w ', 'gif , -. ..-f ZA , fw -ua EEN, ...NK 4: xx , gf. if. ...QP af -F ,:,.mx,7,x.,1 A x Nix J X. xg-9' K- ,f Sjxiiiy in ix ,wiki wwf ' wx.-f . x .' :S 5 ,1 Q M X ., ww g X x M X, , j if XL Q k ' Y ,NN Q .S ,- z wifi' ,1 ,. li. . ii: ff' 'el X81 1 ,lv 1 4 Ni 1 1 9 Nw. I 1,1 Q ,wx ,W The Crew CUMMANIIING UFFICER CAPTAIN PETER M. HEKMAN, JR., ujs. NAVY Captain Peter M. Hekman was graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1958. Through 1958 - 1960 he served successively in the Destroyers USS AGERHOLM IDD-8261, USS AMMEN CDD-5271, Gnd USS COGSWELL CDD-6511. Returning to USS AGERHOLM in November 1960 he served as Engineer Officer for that ship's modernization. Through 1962 - 1963, he served as Engineer Officer for construction and commissioning of USS HOEL IDDG-131. FOIIOWIFIQ his TOUI' in USS HOEL, Captain Hekman entered the nuclear propulsion program. Upon completion ofa one-year course of instruction, he was assigned to the staff at the A1W Plant, U,S, .Naval Nuclear Power Training Unit, Idaho Falls, Idaho. In December 1966 he reported to USS PRESTON IDD-7951 for duty as Executive Officer, and in June 1968 he assumed command of USS CHARLES BERRY IDE-10351, serving as that ship's Commanding Officer until November 1969' when he entered the U.S. Naval Post Graduate School, Monterey, California. Captain Hekman reported to the nuclear-powered air- craft carrier, USS ENTERPRISE ICVN-659 in January 1971 and served as Engineer Officer of ENTER- PRISE until November 1974. In March 1975, he assumed command of USS BENJAMIN STODDERT IDDG-221, serving as that ship's Commanding Officer until September 1976 when ordered to duties as Prospective Commanding Officer, USS MISSISSIPPI ICGN-401. I Captain Helcman entered the Navy from Ripon, California. His wife, the f0rmef DOYIS -leur' Rufherfom of Altoona, Pennsylvania, his daughter Suzanne, and son Thomas reside in Newport News, Virginia- u----' EXECUTIVE IIFFIIIEII I EEOMMANDER STEPHEN H. JONES, u. s. Nl-XV Commander Stephen H. Jones was graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1964. Through ' I ' ineering and weapons duties on the destroyers USS ZELLARS 1964 - 1968 he served successive y in eng IDD-7771 and USS HAWKINS IDD-8731. From the spring of 1969 through the spring of 1970 he served as I b t o erating in Vietnam. Commander River Division 543, in command of ten river patro oa s p ,S, Na al Academy as an instructor Following his tour in Vietnam, Commander Jones reported to the U v h ed his MS Degree from George Washington University. and as a company officer. During this time e earn Leaving the Naval Academy in the spring of 1973, he entered the Naval Nuclear Power Program I d and the Nuclear Reactor Prototype completing a one year course of instruction at Bainbridge, Mary an at West Milton, New York. In June 1974, he reported aboard the nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS ' I t' al officer. He served on board ENTERPRISE ENTERPRISE ICVN-651, and assumed duties as e ec ric ' t' Officer, USS MISSISSIPPI. until Decembel' 1976, when he was ordered as prospective Execu ive ' ' ' A reside in Newport News, Virginia. Commander Jones, his wife Joan, their son Mark, and daughter my, 62 i W -4--F LCDR J. H. UTTER SUPPLY OFFICER M 'r 5 SUPPLY DEPARTM The MISSISSIPPI Supply Department has won reknown throughout the Supply Corps and the Fleet. Passing the Supply Management Inspection with outstanding scores, the Supply Department proved that they have a winning system. Supply Department is responsible for outfitting the ship with everything from motors to paper towels. S-'I Division handles this task. Supply's S-2 Division knows that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. It takes a Iot of work to feed -a crew of 500 three meals a day. The Ship's Servicemen are in the third division of Supply Department. They are responsible for laundering crewmembers' clothing, cutting their hair, and manning the ship's store S-I DIVISION and ice cream bar. is xx My 1 I I X' X I 'rf M Ik First Row, left to right: SKI R. Fahnestock, SK2 P. Ferries, SKCS V, Cook, SK3 M. Peters SK3 J. WIIIIOYUS SKI C' Arcainc Second Row, left to right: SK3 T. Norwood, SKSN W, Wolf, SK3 R. Sullivan, SKSN A. Johnson SK3 D. Witherspoon SK3 P. Butler, SK3 D. Christiansen Z I,.,,i' , 'gif N I - I Fl St M I I I ? 'Q V Wwfi First Row: OSSN D. Firesfone, FTMSN L. Wood. Second Row: MSI D. Hear , HTFN C. Becker, RMSN J. McLe , M53 M, M . MSSN 5, Moyer. Third Row. TMSN M. Gmac, on GYS' M53 W' Fahey' SMSN J- Sem HTFN C. Peace. .. l..ff. , ......'--. Q, JK., AS' w... xg 11 'gm S-2 DIVISION ,MN N XX, MMFN CHAUVIN First Row5MS1 G. Monucol, M52 N. Flores. Second Row: MSSN K. ossenbom, Msc R. Bryan, MMFN C. Hicks. 63 nfl 6119 .. xlif A First Row: SHSN P. Bohanan, SH2 G. Church, SH2 R. Jolomo. Second Row: SHSN R. Housewright, SH2 J. Burgess, SH3 J. Posquini. Third Row: SH1 J. Peter, SH3 W. Pinkerton, SH3 G. Bethune, SHSN C, Watson X 'i Sf Ml if W ,M .11 WW...Q, ff J ef. ' sv. 105. mafadkuml ll-,,,,., DK3 R. Crawford, DK3 R. Harmon, DK1 C, Ygungl ENS P HWS, 64 ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT X- , S LUG B- Chaflbovfne. LT R. Heath, LTJG L. Quilici, LTJG A, Halsall, LTJG G, Munn. MMI L' Mafusek' YN3 R' Hlnionl MMI R. Amante. E 1 Q vffxx LCDR W. K. GAUTIER ENGINEER OFFICER The Engineering Department is comprised of over 200 highly skilled men responsible for the upkeep and propulsion of the ship. From the very early days of Pre- commissioning, our men worked side by side with the shipyard workers coordinating, installing and refining the intricate and advanced equipment needed to propel this modern warship. We did so well in preparation, the Engineering De- partment had one of the highest scores on her first Oper- ational Reactor Safeguards Examination IORSEJ passing with high honors and earning the Engineering Achievement E Award. The rates maintaining these high standards of perfection include: Machinist Mate QMMJ, Electricians Mate IEMJ, Engineman IENJ, Hull Technician QHTI, Machinery Repairman IMRD, Electronics Technician IETI, Interior Communications Men UCD and Yeomen. 65 .......-..--ssh-ms ss A ,fs AXP. M 'VI M 1 mvlsmn S-1 'V 9. V f ' ' ' I ix ui V ' J xv X. w I fi ,fd nd X First Row: LTJG J. Coss, MM'l R. Harvey, MM3 M. Johnson, MMT D. Huskisson. Second Row: MM2 G. Litzenberger, MM2 J. McLeese, MM3 D. Teefers, MM2 F. Ber.l. f 'fs , J' f ' 'I J ioofo .,.., A,.i24.VW f .1 M Q! JJJA 2. . .M,iJ Z Z , ,yf , W W-., fs Firsf S , ' ' ' Cm' MM2 B- WOOD, MM2 C. Williams. econd Row. MM2 R. Wade, MM3 R. Brewster, MMI M. Brown, MM2 L, Westbrook, MM2 W. Wylie. Rowz MM3 J. Hoover, MM2 G Hutton MM1 R Shed, 66 -3. f fl I f f L ' JY., if 'Va .I '.v fi I ',4,'Af-K f yo. .J M 2 DIVISION . . MMI M Slone, MMI D. Browning: MMI R. Blair, MMI R- Merril FHS, Irs. MM2.W Axdorff MMI B. MIIIIFIBF, MMI L. 5tecIcIer- Secon ow: - ' ,Ia .5 4 A v, ,4 fyf , I i X if f' fx If ' X7 , ff I7 .,,j 'Z .JXW Y ,U 1 X, Z , fff Zz 5 ff ' f 8 , Em 7 X f I A . 95, f Wfi. QW if y , ' QW an rank! I 3 A ' I I ' if . ' fl 'Hug NX A' .mlffn , fI,,1j 2 I' . , 5 .4 . fff,,, , ,Q ,,,, , ' W. ,,,,,, .H-M. K ,I , W. W , I 9 2 Iley. - 2 L. Koch, MM2 G- SCU Firsf Row: MM2 R. Dieiz, MM2 S. Yorbrou9I'1f MM2 J' wilIioms,2AI.M2NEg5UMnh,:glRhIuMowen. second Row: MM2 R. P001e,MM2 B. Lam, MM2 J- E0'O ' MM ' ' 5 m 4 2 W9 L. 67 A DIVISION I .1 - 1 I Q 'IA -- .b 'I , .... 1 I' H A v O , If ral I 'V I 'ff ... A ,-- Vx-'.:'N --I - f I - .ln Q .. .S YJ ' A 4 X 1' 4 ,. ,, . f' I. -I .-I 1 v , I .J First Row: MMFN B, Worrell, MM3 G. Mullins, MM3 K. Harkins, MM3 J. Jones, MMFN C, Gambardella, MMFN S. Rudy, MMC R. Judy. Second Row: MMCM S. Zasfrow, ENC W. Ackerman, MM2 W. Bryan, MM3 J. Durso, EN2 B. Jones, MMFN J. Cullen, MMFN B. Sfone, MMFN J. Donohue. I , ,jf X f X I I ff ,Z K ,I Z , Tr Q, ' M fl 'Y' ,,,,, .. 1 ,fix ,fax 5. , 'I 2 ,P K 7 iff' , M, . V, ,y , , QWA 'X ,fr !,,'l,' '14' First Row' FN D Bruneau ENFN S Malle MMI h S d R ' - ' 1 - ' V, W. T 0mPSOn, MM2 D. Knowles, MM3 T, Gossetf, EN3 J, Wallace, MMFN w econ ow' MM2 I-- O Neal, ENI L- JOCIK, EN3 D. Walker, FN S. Pickens, MMFN H, Hoffman, 68 l Douglas 1'-Vx' First Row: HT3 M' 'on ' Se cond Row' HT2 C- Smifh, HT2 D. Rocha, HT2 J. Rockhey, HT2 D. Baker. , 'r Q I B' d', HTFN D, Slaughter, HTFN D. Peloquin, HT3 J. Czarkowski. R DC DIVISIUNS HTFN M, Myers, HT2 W. Skaggs, HT3 J. Pitman. tal Nr .--if Fi Second Rowzl-11' . ' ' ,' ' ' 2 E , 5, 'S' Row! HT3 R. Grimsley HT2 M Milfon HTFN C Chapman HTFN R Pearson. FN G. Ewmg, HTFN 5, Hrckman, HTFN C. Becker, HT S e 'Wm ,did In-rnnvusuons K -.Z ,Q . I' -mth' . 1 'M'V 4 J .f. sin a J M In Q, -, . , , . fain X1 .xg X p 5 9 t 2' MM2 P. COX, EM3 R- M0bel'IY, MM3 J. Varchol, LT-JG J. C055 I MM2 J. Moyer, EM3 W. Russell. ,. V7 .I If ' Q L NC. ' 'Q ' . X V r , . I , Q Y ' ' f 1 J Frm K z ZJ. Wi 'tiki I 4 , Wm . .sfmf .-... now: an n u. rearson, EM2 D. Karns, MM2 L. Born ff, MM2 D. . J Id MM3 D. Pettit. Second Row: MM2 M. Micca, MM2 S. Holley, MM3 S. Snellfhg, MM3 J MMN?MA3.RRy5ho0I'lS MM3 M. Johnston, Lt. J. Rowan. ' n' ' ' gl:Ai5dLRZZ:n?nMi R. Fetferman, MM3 T. Greenwood, MM2 J, Manger MM2 R Ramse I MM2 C- Myusl 70 . g on, MM2 D. Hanson, ETC J. Gliebe. I 0 Y J' IIC DIVISION R - ET3 R. WcIIc:ce ET3 T Reyher ET2 F. Musantry, ETI R. Boris, K: IL I.. DUIIIC C f First ow. , . , Second Row: ET3 J. Brunner, ET2 K. Morris, ET2 R. Bowling, ET2 P. HOIi0n, ET2 S. Myron ET2 R oun s wf .ffm X lbw ET2 T Schares ETI W. First Row: ET2 C. Taylor, ET2 G. Gore, ET2 J- NGQY, - I Second Row: ETCS w. And ed Cumbca erson, ET2 R. Spriggs, ET2 G. Word, ET3 M- Kenn Y- E DIVISIUN 1 3-77 I XA, -'xs 4-yn-1 i' First Row: EM2 G. McCartney, EMFN J, Albritton, EM2 W. Miller, EMT P. Pace, EMI T. Alien. Second Row: EM2 D. Briggs, EM2 K. Gresham, EM3 P. Manney, EM2 G. Harrison, EM2 J. Chcncey, EMFN J. Mohr Y., First Row: EM2 J. Dilworth, EM3 M. Rich A ,EM3 G. s h 'd EM D - Il- Second Row: EM3 D. R b ' EM 0' 5 C HCI Gr, 2 . Merritt, EM2 K. Erb, EM2 F- Newv a om, 3 K. MacDonald, EMI R. Pace, EMi M. Doiter, EMI J. Winters, EMI A. Flores. R. Firs1'Row:lC2 M. Muir, ICT S. Sippel. Second Row: ICFN M. Meacham, IC2 C. Knight, IC3 C. King. Third Row: IC3 G. Schwartz, IC3 D. Sweeney, IC3 R. Krzyiewski. , J -4, 3, , Z 5.1 .2 D-s 9' ii 1,3 W sq., ,Mn Www EM2 A. Dinoso, EM3 J. Dilworth, EM2 D. LeiS, EMC J- MeYef, EM1 C- L0Pefe f EM2 B- B'-'Wma N , LCDR C. W. PENQUE COMBAT SYSTEMS OFFICER THE COMBAT SYSTEMS DEPARTMENT The Combat Systems Department is comprised of approximately 80 men. The main mission of the department is upkeep and material readiness of the various combat oriented equipment which includes: two 5 f54 caliber light weight gun mountsg two Mark 26 multi-purpose twin missile launchersj two Mark 32 triple barreled torpedo tubesj the Naval Tactical Data System Computer and various radar and sonar equipment. The personnel assigned to the department are in the following ratings: Sonar Technicians fSTl, who are in charge of what happens beneath the watef's surfacep Data Systems Technicians CDSJ, who are in charge of the computersj Electronics Technicians lETl, who repair damaged radar, radios and other electrical gearp Fire Control Technicians lFTl, operators ofthe guns and missile launchingsj Gunners Mates CGMJ, who do maintenance on the gun mounts and missile launchersj and Torpedoman's Mates iTMl, who are responsible for the torpedo tubes and torpedos. nf, 2 I Q Wx First Row: DS2 K. Benson, DSI J. Osburn. V S ,W 1, W- I K , Q. .XII y. F, I V-My JMX y I i 1 Second Row: DSC E. Winchester, DS2 P. Shea, DS2 J. Allen, DS2 E. Ccxrronzo, LT D. Downie. Lf' ,sm I f ' f' 1 ,Q my M ,- -S I V 1' nd CD DIVISION f 3'.P a as I CA DIVISION , , 3, SP . I , ,vw it in .A f ww Wifi' ,M , 2 Q, paw ,Q Z 4 ,, 4, ww ' '0f, fm, Z5 Z M ,,f,,, fo,- O 0 V fr W 'wr fm f 'z 4 W0 Q ,ff ff Z! f I I Il 4. IIL II First Row: TMSN M. Garcia' STG2 M- DUY1 I-T W- Bagbeyf II, Second Row: STGC M. Myers, STG3 J- TUfPeY: STG2 D- WUITISIBYI STG2 D' Chapman' 3 If M 'III II I Ig I5 , First Row: STG3 W. Moore, STG2 J. DoweII, STG2 S. Jaquish, STG2 M. Abboti. Second Row: STG3 S. Waddell, STG3 K. Miller, STG2 Buzcrd. III ' I 'f I ,pr :,,1' I fi, 5 I I 'I ff I .L I 2,12 ' VJ, si - ISI' ISI' api W. . fl? .If , 1 , 2' I1 an , ' 76 J ' ,T-1' K CF DIVISION B it . s , f-.,!X, mx .yr Xtfxx Q A I Ii' My lX I 'Q Q: Q I' 1. First Row: FTG2 P. Anderson, FTG2 T. Bowen, FTM3 C. Hirschy, FTG3 B. ErI'1Sf- Second Row: FTM2 J. Krzeczowski, FTM2 W. Geller, FTM2 L. NICIWOIS- Firsf Row: FTMI D. Sheldon, FTMI R. York, FTM2 J. Huston, FTMI W- FUf1d,AFTGC W. COOIC- Second Row: FTMI R. Reese, FTMC G. Davis, FTGI B. Austin, FTGI R- .I0f150 '- J I Z 15 iw Q ' -W X 5 f yi ' , . jf! fi M . 'f Vi gh' S M.. l ... 'ff N' .. I I f ww? f r ,.. First Row: SN B. Bordds, GMG3 W. Simmons, GMG3 J, Ramsey. V Second Row: GMM3 C. Morse, GMM3 K. D0l'f0r1, GMM3 M. Mendoza, GMGSN L. Ziegenbein, GMM3 J. Craig. Third Row: GMGSN D. Lam, GMM3 D. Sfolfz, GMGSN L. Nels-Om GMGSN M. McNamara, GMMSN J. Von Dyne. .f Q f , 5 1 Q ii 4' if uv GMG2 J. Morris, GMMQ w. Alshire, GMMC T. Tolberf, GMGQ L. sfephens. fd! W I ...Q ETC E. Vick, ET1 M. amaley, ET2 R. Ellaoff, cwoz J. walls. CE DIVISION I I -I ' I I Q? I, Q I , ,,,I AI 'Ari IAIAII .-, ' ' , gf ,.f ' H I 4 I . I , ,JS Af 5 ETI T. Keenan, ET2 M. SprouII, ETSN w. OId0I, ET3 R. Fafinelli- 79 M. 'ii-so LCDR J. E. TAYLOR OPERATIONS OFFICER IIPERATIIJNS IJEPARTMEN The Operations Department consists of nearly l00 men who navigate the ship, collect and digest intelligence, conduct visual signalling and radio communications, coordinate the tactical employment of weapons and sensors, and effect all deck seamanship evolutions. While the signalmen brave the wind and spray in pqgsing vifal ma. neuvering codes by flashing Iights and flags, the radiomen utilize multiple, sophisticated transmitterfreceiver combinations and the latest in satellite technology to communicate instantly with units around the world. Although Quartermasters normally employ state of the art computers, satellites, and hyperbolic radio stations to pinpoint the ship's position, their continued mastery of the trying sextant in celestial navigation ensures the safe navigation of the ship whenever space-age science falters. The extraordinarily difficult task of receiving and sending mail from our moving home away from home is critical to the morale of all aboard and is efficiently managed by our Postal Clerks. The Electronic Warfare and Cryptologic-Technicians operate and maintain the mysterious black boxes with which we can detect, locate, and counter the enemy while disrupting his transmitters and receivers. They provide the early intelligence by which we prepare and deploy our force in preparation for battle. The Operations specialists employ complex search radars to assist in all-weather navigation and to detect and engage the enemy. Through intimate knowledge of voluminous war plans, tactics, and the lightning-fast naval tactical data system computers, they maneuver the ship with allied forces to best advantage to bring the ship's weapons and supporting air- craft into effective play. Finally, the oldest and most senior rating in the Navy - the Boatswain's Mates,maintain the ship's appearance and deck fittings, operate the under- way replenishment rigs and boats, handle helicopters on deck, and anchor and moor MISSISSIPPI whenever she enters port. Their stamina and vigi- lance as Iookouts and helmsmen are fundamental determinants in the ship's safe sailing. NX T I I I t 4 . I . - ff .-. -... ., gg Q, mu..- Lg -4 -- 4 ff ,,, ,...,, ,-...., UC DIVISION if , gl. Qe -e . f 'owns' I My If A nf' I I I . I 1 -. .Q - M--. +25 if if First Row: RMI T. Saunders, RMC B, Broshers, RMI V. Schofield. E ,, I Second Row: RM2 A. lfri, RM2 W. Edwards, RMSN R, Mandl, RM3 P. Turick, RM3 P. Lewandowski, RMSN J, McLean. Third Row: RM3 J. Marcinkowski RM3 R. Meridefh RM2 I.. Hood RM2 T. Rob RM3 J Thompson, SN R. Gannon. ilu . -'.', I sM3 K. Miller, SMSN C. crews, sMsN 1.. Alorcon, SM2 J- Milfom SM3 M- Bukshc, III, SMI J. Mclntosh. UI DIVISION 1-131 N First Row:OSI R. Putzer OS3..l Reeves OSI T Harp OSSNW Burge OS3S Michael OSCMJ Hayden Second Row: OSI E Baunes OSI W Helton OSSN K Morgan OSSN L Nelson OS3J Prowdley OS3J Goodrow OSI F E ks EW 4.- W1 SIS-1 SN C, Trimpey, EW3 L. Romnne, EWSN G. Smi IIN DWI SIGN 'I' .. s Q 4' I I if' Xfvf. Q'--. IIE DIVISION .faq In K? EW2 R. Hlxson, EWC J. Joyce. PCSN M. Wilgon, Sea w. Burko- W . , 1' SN R. Leedom, QMC C, Love, QM2 'ww R. Marostica, QMSN D. WGIICGF, QMSN J. PONY' ISI DIVISION K o Q, - I, I .wit 5 an 'IF' Q-I-Q. Him un .. ,. as I M 'I ,, Z Q4 T' gf I A ,Jw 'A QM. , , i 7 f A fr . 2 Z, ,I ,M A y ,,,,f,,,,,,f,,,,II,,,,III,I,,,,,,,,, .V A 'M I 3 ,I,, W4 I ,M V ' 5 , 'I ' M ,,,., ,,,-'v f I ' If ' f f' ,,,I,, f I f , First Row: BM2 E. Jones, BMI A. Haley, BMC W, Gilley. Second Row: BMSN D. Reyes, BMSN H, Hassan, SN K. Bolden, SN C. Allen, SN R, Meekins. Third Row: SN B. Harrell, SN J, Hassan, SN J. Shelton, SN L. DiBagno, SN A, Sickler. 'N ,Ulu ,uf 3 . 4 I, Ilifl, Irr, I I I Firgr Rowg BM3 P, Riley, BMC W, Gilley, BM3 B. Smitlwey, BM2 J. Stout, BM2 C. Penor. Second Row: SN S. Hernandez, SN W. Brown, SN F. Olson, SN D. Heerdi, SN J. WIUTGIQBH SN M, Szymleowsld, SN G, Fraser, SN R, Golden. li-HIV VH ,gifs 595, . 2 7' g.. ,rf , G ' r l . ads! 5. J ,1 X HMC G, Creamer iseufedi, HN H. Miles, HM2 C. Watson, GMI J. Sfitsinger, LT iMCi T. Hawley, HM'l Ja Wood. X81 MEDICAL DIVISIUNS PNC R. Neill, YNC O. Fulmer, ENCM J. MCBryc1r, LT D. McGee. NT! SN K. Harfmqn,YN2 M, Waring, YNSN w, Ramsdale, QN3 M. Smith, YNSN S, Puiice, PNI S, Miller. YN3 W, Weiier, SH3 R. Smith, YN3 B. Warren JO3 J, Larscheici, PNC R. Neill. V' S , E3 f :M f LCDR I. B. BURNETT SHIP'S CHAPLAIN LCD R S. C. HAUGEN SUPPLY OFFICER 86 New Arrivals Z W ,M , 9, L. LCDR G. F. BUCKLEY COMBAT SYSTEMS OFFICER 1 last But Not Least First Row: MM2 M. Micca, MM2 R. A. Lalzrenierre, MM2 R. T. LcFrenierre, MMI J. Sober. Second Row: MM2 D. Wellman, MM2 R. Henclerlife, MM2 B. Dahl, MM2 M. Jowetf. LABORATORY DIVISION I f W W7f f f A if WY! ENS GARY SHROUT CRUISE BOOK ADVISOR EDITOR: JO3 JOHN LARSCHEID COORDINATOR AND ADVISOR: LTJG GARY SHROUT A giant thank you is sent out to all who helped with the PFOCIUCIIOU of this book: DS2 Jett Allen, DS2 Pat Shea, D52 Kevin Benson, SK3 Rick SuIIivan, SKSN Willie WoIf, MMI Bob Amante, YN3 Bob Hinton, YN3 Brian Warren and LTJG Gary Shrout. I would aIso like to thank all the photographers who contributed to this endeavor, for you are the ones that made this book. . . and special thanks to the crew IOY supporting 40 DAYS, even though it took longer than expected to finish, for this is truIy a crew's book. JO3 John lsarsc-heid Editor TIFFANY Pum isiimc, r UMPANY NORFOI K, vim,uNiA f Armzzw' -'mm-w -, V, f - ,Y - A g L1 N ,. . mlfmrlm