Less than a week after we pulled back into port we had a fairwell dinner for seven Officers who were about to complete their tour on board. Every time an Officer leaves the Curtis Wilbur there is a celebration in remembrance of their contributions to the ship. Each ship does this a little differently but we present our departing Officers with a portrait of the ship and a plaque. Around the portrait is a large border for every Officer to write a personal message. It is somewhat similar to receiving a yearbook and having your friends write messages in it.
This fairwell dinner was a little more special since we were losing seven of our Officers. We went to a restaurant out in town, TGI Friday's. Yes, this chain of restaurants is now in Japan just like McDonald's and KFC. After the Captain introduced each Officer, each of us congratulated him/her and shared a little history with the wardroom. This could be a funny tidbit or fond memories of time spent together. We try to keep the occasion fairly light-hearted and focus on the future.
Not to sound selfish here but as these Officers leave, bunks in staterooms will open up for the next most senior Officer. I should have access to a stateroom in less than a month. Honestly though, I have gotten used to living in the berthing. I valued several Officers' experience and advice over the advantages of having more space. Life in the Navy goes on though for the Officers still left serving on the Curtis Wilbur.
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