Valley Forge (CV 45) - Naval Cruise Book

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Keeping her functioning as a unit in a Mobile Striking Force required all of us to be trained for numerous military duties such as condition watches in addition to our routine work.

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Nearing the dock we saw throngs of families and friends who were impatiently waiting to greet us. Secured from quarters, those who expected relatives went to the rail to see if they could spot them in the crowd. The pushing tugs slowly brought the huge carrier to her berth. Excitement ran high, but no one was permitted to come aboard or go ashore until the ship had cleared with customs and agricul- tural inspectors. Shortly after clearance, visitors came aboard and greetings were exchanged . . . a fitting climax to the eight-month long cruise.