Site hosted by Angelfire.com: Build your free website today!
 

Some Underway shots

We thought at first that we would not see action. Then we earned the nick name Rath/Jersey. Fire one! we operated with the USS Long Beach and USS Biddle. then we operate with the USS Newport News and USS Providence. Then we operated with the USS Midway. Next we take on fleet tug assignment to tow the USS Ramsey. When we returned to Point Allison things started to heat up. We spent 66 days on the gun line, Fired nearly 9000 rounds and had come under fire from shore batteries twice. Rathburne had come away unscrached but on the other hand the accuracy of our gun crew had stopped two attacks, and had caused destruction to enemy forces. Rathburne's crew earn a combat action ribbon.




  We took on ammo so much that it truly involved all hands. Here is proof.
Notice that even the officers and chiefs are handling the ammo. And this was not normal. But working as a true team it
was defiantly nice to be appreciated, As for our fleet tug duties I'm still awaiting for some one to come forward with pictures of us towing USS Ramsey on first cruise. Or any other tows. Like the rescue and tow to Guam of a disabled fishing vessel. Or 2nd cruise Rarhburne towed by Whipple. What Happened?
 

Rearming again.


We fired so much that they the officers and chiefs chipped in to help rearm. And if you were just one of the lowlifes handling shells all the time the little break that they were able to give was appreciated. Just in case the word did not get back up to you. Every three days, Fuel and ammunition replenishment.

Friends

Our ships barber. When you sat down you thought to yourself don't hit that big swell while I'm in the chair. Otherwise your buddies will be laughing at you. But for the most part they did a good job. I thought he had it easy because the majority of the guys would rather get there hair cut import.

Our gun line support was dead on.

Not only are we all old salts now. We have earned ribbons for service, combat action and Campaign ribbon. And we had been the fleets tug for the USS Ramsey. Didn't ever hear then say thanks or offer to buy a beer. If the shoe would be on the other foot we would have. But we made all commitments. In fact I think it was the Whipple that once towed the Rathburne. If you were aboard during that time maybe you can fill the rest of us in on being towed.
 

Rathburne cook outs were a great place.


Cook outs were a great chance to get some fresh air and chat with other divisional and hear what they have been up to. A chance to chat with someone other than those that stood watch with you. I know I enjoyed them. How about you?