Ticonderoga Apollo Recovery (CVS 14) - Naval Cruise Book

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Hello again, Hawaii! I . . .and down to business

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' M YA I , wg, , Q , f .... X ybmdzsi' N H me 'iff-iffy is-nf 1 T-3 6- 23 March Farewell of Tico Sailors T MINUS 36 DAYS . .. Our departure from San Diego brought sadness to our hearts. You were being left behind . . . As we stood there on the pier while preparations were being made for Getting Underway, your tender squeeze of my hand reassured me of your love. The mistl saw in your eyes caused a now familiar tightness in my throat as we parted once again. Very soon, the pangs of loneliness would again dominate our thoughts, and we will equally yearn for my speedy return. You cautioned me to Take care and tried to appear lighthearted for the children's sake, but I sensed your feelings of sadness and felt a need to hold you in my arms one more time. All around us, other wives and children were openly crying, but you drew upon that inner strength which is so much a part of your natural beauty, and it was then thatl knew you really understood . . . lt's because l love you and the children so much, thatl must leave you often. The security, peace, and tranquility you know here at home is because of a protecting shield of U.S. ships out there on the oceans. lt's strange really, what a contradiction life can be. l never want to leave you or the children, butl have job to do. Sometimes it's not a pleasant job . . . the hours are long, and the conveniences are few. But, because I, and other men like me, are willing to do a very necessary job in the Navy, you and the children are safe and secure here at home. Write often! Those long days at sea are always made happier and seem shorter by your faithful letters. Even the tropical nights appear more beautifully lighted because of the happy memories you have given me. l go now to the South Pacific to recover men returning from the Moon. How exciting it must be to travel into the star-lighted space and walk upon the Moon. But you know what? I'll always be contented to sit quietly holding your hand on a clear Summer night and just observe from the earth the stars and the Moon in their true splendor. -W0-l C. Fortier-

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-.5 - ,,.,. f1 Once again, TICONDEROGA arrived in Hawaii. TICO and her crew completed more planning conferences with NASA, CTF-130, and this time the Press was included, as they became a part of the recovery team with their mission of projecting the Apollo 16 recovery to the people of the world. It was also a time of rest and relaxation for the officers and men of TICONDEROGA-a small break for important men in this most challenging task. It would be a long time from here until TlCO's crew would have an opportunity to rest again. Hawaii was enjoyed by all. There was golfing, sunbathing on Waikiki Beach, island tours-just about something for everyone. With the preliminary conferences and briefings completed, it was now time to get down to the business of putting it all together-the men, the equipment, and TICONDEROGA. TICONDEROGA steamed out of Pearl Harbor on Monday, 3 April 1972, to start a new kind of training never before experienced by her able crew. This was something new and exciting. The officers and men were looking forward to taking part in this new chapter of TICONDEROG1-Vs proud history. Much was to be achieved during those brief three days in the training area south of Hawaii. TICONDEROGAE crew put forth their very best effort, as always, in working together with the NASA, CTF-130, UDT-12, VR-30, HC-1, VAW-111, and the Press pool personnel.