Sea Trials

With all the stores loaded on board it was time to start prepping for our sea trials. I did not have a large part to play in the next few days, since I do not have the technical expertise to manage most of the ship's equipment and systems. I know many of our systems were repaired and upgraded. The crew needed to prove that we could still function under all conditions so there were many drills to perform, that meant meetings and extra training.

The CURTIS WILBUR left port at the end of the month and stayed out at sea for several days. Most of the tests performed during that time went smoothly. I was just glad to be back out at sea actually doing something that seemed worthwhile. Our last few days were spent loading ammunition and weapons.

The last night out at sea was a somber one, one of the Officers would be leaving the ship upon our return to port. We had a small celebration in the wardroom and gifts were exchanged. I was sad to see him go, he had offered me advice and encouragement during my first few months on the ship. After the ceremony was over I had a shift as Officer of the Deck (OOD) on the bridge. Although I had stood OOD many times before in port this was the first time I was standing it underway on the bridge. This meant I was the senior Officer in charge of maintaining a lookout. Luckily it turned out to be a boring watch, this was one time I was not looking for any excitement.