I had the honor of taking Command of USS Kawishiwi (AO-146) several months after the Inspection & Survey letter was written and departed the ship shortly after receiving the Battle Efficiency Award winning letter.
During the one year time frame between these two letters, the USS Kawishiwi, AO-146, was constantly at sea servicing the Fleet in the South China Sea, Indian Ocean, North Pacific and South Pacific with minimal time in port.
The young men, pictured below, made this rapid rise to the top a reality. They are the heart and soul of the ship.
This letter was dated 25 June, 1973
This letter was mailed 10 September 1974
I reported aboard Memorial day 73, I was a SA in 2nd division. The scuttlebutt was that the ship was headed for mothballs. From the time Capt Nick stepped aboard, I knew there was a new Sheriff in town. This turn around was due to one thing…The Captain’s force of will and leadership capability. I am very proud to have been a small part.