CV-67 Set to retire

[puckmedic]

USS John F Kennedy (CV-67) is in Boston right now. The ship will make it back to homeport in Mayport Florida. The ship will be decommisioned after nearly what? 40 yrs of service?

I was a young HN when I was assigned to Helicopter Anti Submarine Warfare Squadron 7 AKA Shamrocks, call sign Dusty Dogs. While a Dusty Dog, I made third class, participated in the rescue and recovery of the USS Bone Fish, did one full med cruise, and was onboard from August to Oct 90 in support of Desert Shield. I learned more about being an HM, and a fleet sailor onboard that ship than any other time in my career.

The lessons learned, and the experiences survived (fires, two Libyian Migs being shot down as we sat in a real GQ, countless mass casualties drills, a small riot in Greece with anti american protestors, drinking with Russian sailors in the hieght of the cold war and so on and so on), made me the person I am today.

The Navy really did change me, for the better I'm sure. Big John had a huge hand in that and I will always feel a certain bond with that ship. Wish I could go to Boston and ride her back home.

[AVTDOC96]

I was on the JFK for the 99-00 Cruise. It wasn't my first ship, but it was a much better experience than the Truman was. I can't believe that they are going to Decom her, but I guess it's time.

Puck, I know exactly what you mean about it being a great learning experience. That's where I really learned what being an AVT was all about. I was with VAW-123 with CVW-1. We spent most of our Cruise in the Persian Gulf, but it was a good time. I miss working the flight deck.

We had some bad times there too. We lost an S-3 and both pilots and an F-14 during the "Tiger" Cruise on our way home, but doing the Mishap work-up is part of being an AVT.

Well, Fair Winds and Following Seas to the USS John F. Kennedy!!!

[puckmedic]

The flight deck was the only place to be. My real name is Dennis Lee, you're not who I think you are are you? Initials JH?

[AVTDOC96]

I would have to agree with ya. My real name is Scott Jasper. So I don't think i'm who you thought I was. That sounds wierd, but I guess it works.

[Doc_Fuson]

just so you guys know the Kitty Hawk is the best ship out there hands down

[Da-Chief]

Nothing like the S*itty Kitty..

:p

HMC