Renshaw (DD 499) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 15 text:

Tokyo's Imperial Palace seems afloat in the tranquil goldfish filled moat that protects it from ancient, feudal enemies. Our first visit in Japan was accompanied by warm temperatures and overcast skies. Our second visit in December had us in overcoats, at first a pleasant change after the sultry heat of South east Asia, but soon had us wishing for the tropical climate of Hawaii. Many,as in Hong Kong, took advantage of low prices and went Christmas shopping in the naval base exchange center at A-33. Electronic equipment was a special bargain, especially tape recorders, stereophonic phonograph consoles and records. Other items of great interest were china, crystal, and silver. Japanese dolls of all shapes and sizes were available. Pearls, a specialty of Japan, were incorporated into many designs of jewelry. All things considered, Japan proved to be the place for a bonanza shopping spree.

Page 14 text:

yy 1 ne, Q :yy ' r F MASSIVE Shinto arches are formed by four single timber trunks. BELOW, SAMURI swordsman performs in restaurant. A SHINTO temple lies in quiet se elusion on a wooded hill. The sights of Japan, for those of us who were lueky enough to find the time, was only a train ticket away. Yokosuka had its night Clubs and hot steam baths, but the gigantic: City of Tokyo was too tempting to pass up. Our special services officer sent large flroves of the crew ofi' to Tokyo for a clay, or to quiet little Kamakura, a picturesque rural town lying seeluclecl from big city smog.

Page 16 text:

Ens. Prout .nd Chiei Baldasan ran lst division through dozens off port entries, exits and gallons of haze- l gray paint. RED LEAD AND RIGGING Throughout history, the deck hand has played an imporv tant role in the operation of the sea going vessel. This is particularly true in today's modern Navy. Whether in the crow's nest of yesteryear or the flying bridge of the present the function of the underway watch is the sameg to assist the officer of the deck in running the ship. First division is made up of deck hands and boatswains mates. The boatswains mates are responsible for the external appearance of the ship and the handling of various rigging and mooring lines. The maintenance and operation of the small boats, the handling of replenishment and refueling riggings are two important responsibilities of the division. The vigilance required for continuous success in the performance of these jobs offers little reward, other than the knowledge of a job well done. Morrison, BM2, and Davidson, BM2, made sure operations ran smoothly-had one heckava good time on the beach.