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CHAPTER LXIII, Appendix II to III (30 September 1979 to 16 March 1980) |
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A Sailors tale of his Tour of duty in the U.S. Navy (August 1977 to February 1983) Operation Evening Light and Eagle Claw - 24 April 1980
Book - ISBN NO. 978-1-4276-0454-5 EBook - ISBN NO. 978-1-329-15473-5
Operations Evening Light and Eagle Claw (24 April 1980) Iran and Air Arm History (1941 to 1980)
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U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER SHIP HISTORY (1920 to 2019)
Book - ISBN NO. 978-1-4276-0465-1 EBook - ISBN NO. 978-1-365-25019-4 Library of Congress Control Number: 2008901616 (Book Version)
U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIERS REDESIGNATED AND OR RECLASSIFIED (1953 to 2016)
BOOK - ISBN NO. 978-1-4276-0452-1 EBook - ISBN NO. 978-1-365-25041-5 Library of Congress (Book Version) 2008901619
ENERGY QUEST AND U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER DEPLOYMENT HISTORY INVESTMENT CAPITAL REQUIRED TO PUBLISH 55 EIGHTH HUNNDRED PAGE BOOKS, EBOOKS & CD’s (48 Navy Books)
Book - ISBN NO. To Be Announced EBook - ISBN No. 978-1-365-26038-4
USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) History Vol. I of III (27 December 1982 to 6 May 2003)
Book Vol. I of IV ISBN: TBA EBook Vol. I of IV ISBN: 978-1-365-73794-7
USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) History Vol. II of III (7 May 2003 to 13 January 2010)
Book - ISBN NO. To Be Announced EBook - ISBN NO. 978-1-365-74027-5
USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) History Vol. III of III (14 January 2010 to 31 December 2012)
Book - ISBN NO. To Be Announced EBook - ISBN No. 978-1-365-74145-6
USS Coral Sea CV-42 CVB-43 CVA-43 and CV-43 History and Those Aircraft Carriers Operating with Coral Sea During Her Tour of Service CONSTRUCTION to LAUNCHING and EARLY JET AIRCRAFT DEVELOPMENT (10 July 1944—2 April 1946) and a Tour of Duty in the U. S. Navy (August 1977 to February 1983)
ISBN: 9781434382917
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At sea in the Western Pacific, 30 November 1974. Good overhead showing stern of Midway after her 1966-1970 overhaul: note 3 deck-edge elevators, two to starboard (forward and abaft the island) and one to port. F-4s, A-6s, A-7s, E-2s and an SH-3 are shown on the flight deck - NS024105 - USN. http://www.navsource.org/archives/02/024105.jpg |
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CHAPTER LXIII, Appendix II to III (30 September 1979 to 16 March 1980)
1979 VISITS AND CEREMONIES ABOARD USS MIDWAY (CV-41) CHAPTER LXIII Appendix II
VISITS AND CEREMONIES ABOARD USS MIDWAY (CV-41)
7-8 JAN - COMNAVAIRPAC VISIT - Vice Admiral R. P. Coogan, Commander Naval Air Forces Pacific, and members of his staff were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Holcomb, Commander Carrier Group ONE and Captain T. F. Brown III. During his visit, he met with the Commanding Officer, department heads and squadron Commanding Officers while his staff members met with various department heads and other key officers for discussions within their respective areas of responsibility.
10 JAN - CINCPACFLT VISIT - Admiral D. C. Davis, Commander-in-Chief U. S. Pacific Fleet was welcome aboard and given a Midway tour. In the course of his tour, he met with selected Midway/Air Wing FIVE enlisted personnel on the forecastle and proceeded to the CPO Mess afterwards to meet selected Midway/Air Wing FIVE chief petty officers.
4-5 FEB - VIP VISIT - Ambassador R. Murphy, United States Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines and his son Richard were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Holcomb and Captain Brown III.
5-6 FEB - COMLOGSUPSEVENTHFLT VISIT - Rear Admiral R. B. McClinton, Commander Logistic Support SEVENTH Fleet, was welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Holcomb and Captain Brown, III.
16 FEB - JAPANESE MILITARY SELF DEFENSE FORCE VISIT - Rear Admiral T. Nishino, Commander Escort Flotilla TWO, and an entourage of three JMSDF officials were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Holcomb and Captain Brown III. The visitors observed flight ops from the Flag Bridge and toured the ship.
23 FEB - JAPANESE MILITARY SELF DEFENSE FORCE VISIT - Rear Admiral G. Eggert, COMFAIRWESTPAC, JMSDF, MAJGEN Komei Zama, Commander, Air Rescue Wing, JASDF, Iruma and five other Japanese Officials were welcomed aboard by Captain Brown III and were given a tour of USS Midway (CV-41):
LTCOL Fukuyama Takashi, Commander, Air Rescue Squadron, Hyakuri LTCOL Maekawa Mitsuhiro, Director of Comptroller, Rescue HQ MAJ Tadanobu Morita, Chief of Staff, Defense Section CAPT Sugano Tadashi, Operations Officer LTCOL Albert R. Aabel, 5AF/DOS
6 MAR - ROK Ministry of National Defense film team. Visitors included:
Mr. Lee, Jun Sung (Film Team) Mr. Yoon, Chung Kuk (Film Team) Mr. Jung, Kwang Chul (Film Team) LCDR Gagne (Escort) Mr. Kwon Tae (Interpreter)
12-13 MAR - COMUSFORJAPAN VISIT - Lieutenant General G. G. Loving, USAF, Commander U. S. Forces Japan (COMUSFORJAPAN), a party of three other U. S. Air Force officials and CAPT Fleet, Aid-De-Camp were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Holcomb and Captain Brown, III, and were given a familiarization tour of the ship while Midway was operating in the Sea of Japan. Additional Guests included:
COL McGrew, Deputy Chief of Staff/Plans COL White, Assistant Director of Operations COL Branan, Director of Maintenance Engineering
19 MAR - COMMATVAQWINGPAC and COMPLATWINGPAC VISITS - Rear Admiral H. D. Arnold, Commander Medium Attack Tactical Electronic Warfare Wing, U. S. Pacific Fleet, and Rear Admiral R. C. Mandeville, Commander Light Attack Wing, U. S. Pacific Fleet, were welcomed aboard Midway by Rear Admiral Holcomb and Captain Brown, III. Their entourage included eight staff officers.
27 MAR - Commander J. M. Nash relieved as Commanding Officer Fighter Squadron ONE SIX ONE by Commander A. L. Burgess on-board Midway. Vice Admiral Foley, COMSEVENTHFLT was the guest speaker.
6 APR - MEDIA EMBARKATION - A four-man film team from the Republic of Korea's Ministry of National Defense Film and escorted by Lieutenant Commander Gagne, Public Affairs Officer of COMSEVENTFLT WESPACT DET, were welcomed aboard by Commander D. S. Strole, the ship's Executive Officer, and Ensign R. D. Alexander, the ship's PAO. The crew was on a documentary filming mission and was allowed to film launches from the bridge and between cats and recoveries, from the LSO platform.
7 APR - MEDIA EMBARKATION - Sixteen Japanese newsmen affiliated with local and worldwide circulated publications and two escorts were flown aboard via C-2. A command presentation, viewing of "Sea Legs" and a tour of the ship were provided. The purpose of the visit was mainly photographic coverage of the Midway. A command presentation, viewing of "Sea Legs" and a tour of the ship were provided. The purpose of the visit was mainly photographic coverage of the Midway. Visitors were:
Mr. Tatsuo Saito Kyodo Wire Service Mr. Nobuyuki Chiba Kanagawa Shimbun Mr. Kenji Kanegae Asahi Shimbun Mr. George Kimura Koku Fan Magazine Mr. Masaharu Yamada Mainichi Shimbun Mr. Yasuo Kitazawa Tokyo Shimbun Mr. Tohru Igarashi Sankei Shimbun Mr. Ryuichi Teshima NHK TV Ms. Mutsuko Murakami Chicago Tribune Mr. Susumu Ono Koku Fan Magazine Mr. Toshio Kojima Reuters Wire Service Mr. Jim Foley Reuters Wire Service PH2 Chet King Pacific Stars and Stripes Mr. Neil Ulevich Associated Press Wire Service Mr. Mike Tharpe Wall Street Journal Mr. Bob Morton The News World LT E. L. Ahlwardt, Jr. COMNAVFORJAPAN PAO Mr. Hiromi Katsura COMNAVFORJAPAN PAO Translator
11 APR - EMBARKATION OF COMMAMDER CARRIER GROUP THREE - Cargo movement of COMCARGRU THREE coordinated by Lieutenant Commander Lauerman was initiated. The cargo had to be moved from the USS RANGER at Alava Pier to the USS Midway at Leyte Pier. Midway provided 30 personnel to expedite the movement.
11 APR - COMSEVENTHFLT BAND EMBARKATION - The band consisted of one officer, one chief and eighteen enlisted personnel who embarked the ship.
11 APR - US-3/C-2 DETS EMBARKATION - Two C-2 crew officers and four US-3 crew officers and a number of enlisted personnel embarked Midway for the Indian Ocean cruise.
27 APR - Upon arrival near the Gulf of Aden, the U. S. Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, the Honorable Marshall W. Wiley, paid a visit to Midway.
28 APR - OMAN AIR FORCE OFFICIALS VISIT - Air Commodore Eric Bennett, Commander of the Sultan of Oman Air Force and six Oman Air Force pilots were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Kirksey and Captain Brown, III. A tour of the ship was provided, which included observation of launch and recovery from the primary, spar bombing and DACM briefing at Ready Room No. 2.
8 MAY - VIP visits by Kenyan civil and military officials that included:
Mr. Eliud Mahihu Provincial Commissioner, Coast Province Mr. Francis Tura Chairman Mombasa Municipal Commission COL E. Siman Mbilu Commander Kenyan Navy
9 MAY - VIP VISIT - The Honorable W. J. LeMelle, United States Ambassador to Kenya, accompanied by his wife and son were welcomed aboard Midway by Rear Admiral Kirksey and Captain Brown, III on 9 May 1979. The visiting dignitary was hosted to a lunch in the Flag Mess followed by tours of the Flight Deck and the Navigation Bridge. The same day, Mr. H. Sizer, Deputy Chief of Mission of the U. S. Embassy in Oman and several officials of the Sultanate of Oman visited the Midway.
28 MAY - VIP VISIT - Several officials of the Sultanate of Oman and Mr. H. Sizer, Deputy Chief of Mission of the American Embassy in Oman, were hosted by Rear Admiral Kirksey and Captain Brown, III. Special events such as air demonstration, air operation tour, etc. were tendered to the guests.
28 MAY - COMMANDER CARRIER AIR WING FIVE CHANGE OF COMMAND - Commander S. R. Briggs relieved Commander S. D. Langdon as the new Air Wing Commander, Commander of CVW-5 in ceremonies held onboard USS Midway (CV-41) forecastle with Rear Admiral Kirksey as the guest speaker on 28 May 1979. This event was held while the ship was underway in the Arabian Sea. Also, on this day, officials of the Sultanate of Oman again visited Midway. Guests were:
His Highness Sayyid Fahar Bin Taymur, Deputy Secretary of Defense His Excellency Sheik Burayk Ibn Hamud Al-Ghaffari, Governor of Dhofar and Minister without Portfolio His Excellency Yousuf Al-Alawi, Under Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Harry Sizer, Deputy Chief of Mission, American Embassy Air Commodore Eric Bennet, Commander of the Sultanate of Oman Air Force
19 JUN - CDR L. C. Bryant relieved CDR R. P. Flower as CO of VA-56 onboard Midway inport Yokosuka, Japan.
21 JUN - CDR E. F. Mitchell relieved CDR C. S. Vaught of VA-93.
26 JUN - CDR R. C. Franz relieved CDR L. E. Thomassy of VA-115.
26 JUL - The Deputy Chief of Chaplains, Rear Admiral W. M. Moore toured the ship during the morning.
2 AUG - CASUAL VISIT - Mr. Kamibayashi, Chairman of the International Friendship Committee, Yokosuka Rotary International Club, and several Japanese nationals were given a tour of Midway by Ensign King, Midway Public Affairs Officer.
2 AUG - GURU VISIT - Bhuteshanonda Maharaja, an eighty-year-old Guru of Rama Krishna Vedanta Society, was hosted by Captain Brown, III, and given a tour of the ship.
17 AUG - PAO TOUR - Captain Narita and five other Japanese officials were hosted to an afternoon tour of the ship
2 SEP - VICE PRESIDENT MONDALE VISIT - Vice President of the United States, Walter F. Mondale, his official party, flew aboard Midway by helo while anchored out in Hong Kong Harbor on 2 September 1979 and was preceded by approximately 100 of both local and foreign correspondents and representatives of the news media paid an official visit to Midway. The Vice President was welcomed aboard by Vice Admiral Foley, COMSEVENTHFLT, Rear Admiral Chambers and Captain Brown III. The Vice President and his party toured the ship. He then delivered a speech and held a news conference on the flight deck asserting the fine role of SEVENTHFLT units in the rescue of refugees. During his visit, he met and talked to the crew on the Flight Deck, viewed aircraft static display and was briefed on Midway’s search and rescue of refugees operation. The Vice President sent the following message to Captain Brown:
"Please accept my thanks for the warm hospitality you and the men of USS Midway showed me yesterday. The visit was a high point of my trip, and a reminder of the vitality of the Midway, the Seventh Fleet, and our forces in the Pacific. Having been with you, I now fully understand the Magic of Midway. Please extend my appreciation to your men, as well as best wishes on your cruise. Sincerely, Walter F. Mondale."
3-5 SEP - COMCARGRU SEVEN EMBARKATION - Midway anchored out in Hong Kong Harbor from At 310842I August to 3 September 1979 and elements of COMCARGRU SEVEN, including Rear Admiral Gureck, came aboard beginning on the 3rd.
7 SEP - Captain Eddie Inman ("Hoagy") Carmichael, NAVCAD, assumed command during a change of command ceremony aboard USS Midway (CV-41) on 7 September 1979, relieving Captain Thomas Francis Brown III, NAVCAD, 31st Commanding Officer, serving from February 27, 1978 - September 7, 1979.
8 SEP - COMNAVAIRPAC VISIT - Vice Admiral R. P. Coogan, Commander Naval Air Forces Pacific, and members of his staff were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Gureck, Commander Carrier Group Seven and Captain H. Carmichael. During his visit, he met with the Commanding Officer, Department Heads, and Squadron Commanding Officers while his staff members met with various Department Heads and other key officers for discussions within their respective areas of responsibility.
19 SEP - members of Japanese “Farmer’s Society of Young People” on 19 September 1979 and by members of Japanese “Asian Defense Council” on 20 September 1979
25 SEP - Commander G. Hughes relieved CDR H. Wisely as Commanding Officer, Fighter Squadron ONE FIVE ONE (VF-151).
8 OCT - COMNAVAIRPAC, Vice Admiral Coogan visited Midway again. The visitors included:
VADM R. P. Coogan COMNAVAIRPAC CAPT R. R. Worchesek Force Shore Activities CAPT J. J. Ryan Force Material Officer CAPT W. K. Rhodes, Jr. Force Safety Officer CAPT H. F. Lenhardt, Jr. Force Operations Officer CAPT D. E. Riggs Force Personnel Officer CAPT D. R. Mummert Force Supply Officer CAPT W. H. Reed, Jr. Executive Assistant LCDR T. W. Finta Flag Lieutenant AVCM W. R. Huie Force Master Chief
18 OCT - AUSTRALIAN VIPs VISIT - Distinguished Australian Government officials were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Gureck and Captain Carmichael on the 18th. The guests were provided with an introduction to U. S. SEVENTH Fleet carrier operations and an opportunity to observe Midway/CVW-5 flight operations from 18 to 19 October 1979. Heading the guest list was the Australian Secretary of Defense, Prichet. Dignitaries included:
Mr. N. F. Attwood, Deputy Secretary, Manpower and Financial Services Mr. J. Moten, Acting First Secretary, Secretary for Force Development and Analysis Division Mr. N. L. Webb, Assistant Secretary Strategic Review and Controller Defense Systems nManagement Course.
Media personnel were:
Mr. Don Smith, Cameraman, ABC Television Mr. Geoff McKell, Sound, ABC Television Mr. Chris Hunt, Journalist, ABC Television Mr. Thomas Drewell, Journalist, Channel 9 TV Mr. Kevin Riechelt, Cameraman, Channel 9 TV Mr. John Ibbs, Photographer, Sunday Times Mr. John Clune, Reporter, Channel 7 TV Mr. Brian Dunne, Cameraman, Channel 7 TV Mr. Alan Hale, Reporter, West Australian Mr. Rod Taylor, Reporter, West Australian Mr. Tony McDonough, Photographer, Sunday Independent Mr. John Brown, Reporter, Sunday Independent
20 to 24 OCT - Midway anchored off Freemantle, Australia the morning of 20 October 1979 for a memorable five day visit to Perth. While at anchor, Midway held open house daily for thousands of visiting Australians.
10 NOV - Members of the diplomatic corps from Nairobi, headed by Wilbert John LeMelle, U. S. Ambassador to Kenya and guests were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Gureck and Captain "E" I. Carmichael. The visitors were divided into two groups and were escorted through aircraft static displays in the Hangar Bay as well as tour of the ship by COMCARGRU SEVEN and Commanding Officer, USS Midway. Tour included static aircraft/ selected ordnance display in hangar bay, ride on aircraft elevator to flight deck, navigation bridge, and VF-151 Ready Room for viewing of movie "Sea Legs". Informal briefings were given at each location about functions of space/ aircraft. Luncheon in wardroom was hosted by COMCARGRU SEVEN and CO USS Midway. Guests were most impressed by Midway and her Air Wing. All visitors commented favorably on the enthusiasm and professional knowledge of officers/ men manning the static displays. Many of the guests commented on the efficiency of the U. S. Navy, as demonstrated by aircraft and aircraft carrier. Discussion topics and questions were non-political and limited primarily to the capabilities of Midway and the task group, except as noted below:
Ambassador LeMelle in his remarks to the group at the conclusion of the visit commented upon the world-wide responsibilities of the United States and the Navy's role in fulfilling them. Ambassador LeMelle also commented upon the necessity for the U. S. naval presence in the Indian Ocean and thanked his fellow ambassadors for coming to Midway to demonstrate their support for the U. S. position. His remarks were warmly received. The visiting ambassadors were keenly aware of the U. S. position in world leadership and appeared to strongly support it. All visitors expressed their thanks and appreciation for the opportunity to visit, and for the hospitality extended. Ambassador LeMelle was openly pleased with the U. S. Navy performance in support of the visit. Members of the party were:
H.E. The High Commissioner of Cyprus and Mrs. F. A. Grammenopoulos H.E. The Ambassador of Columbia and Mrs. De Nannetti Concha H.E. The Ambassador of Switzerland and Mrs. H. Miesch H.E. The Ambassador of Spain and Marchioness De Castrol De Torres H.E. The Ambassador of the United States and Mrs. LeMelle and son Gerald H.E. The Ambassador of the Netherlands and Mrs. R. J. Van Schaik H.E. The High Commissioner of Nalawi and Mrs. R. L. Mkomba H.E. The Ambassador of Belgium and Vicountess Vilain
15-16 NOV - COMSEVENTHFLT VISIT - Vice Adm. S. R. Foley, COMSEVENTHFLT, flew aboard Midway and was welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Gureck and Captain Carmichael on 15 November 1979. During the visit, he observed launches and recoveries on a scheduled overnight visit as a port of his trip through the Indian Ocean.
USS Midway (CV-41) 26th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, conducting Operations in the Pacific Ocean, on her 16th “WestPac,” her 26th South China Sea, on her sixth Indian Ocean deployment, to what turned out to be an extended Cruise, traveling through the Lombok Strait, on her third Arabian Sea, extending operations on her, 1st North Arabian Sea on "GONZO" Station and 2nd Gulf of Oman, due to the continuing Iranian Hostage Crisis in Iran Summary (30 September 1979 to 20 February 1980). CHAPTER LXIII Appendix III
“On 20 February 1980, USS Midway (CV-41) with Rear Admiral Gureck, COMCARGRU SEVEN, Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region assigned and CDR S. R. Briggs, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked arrived Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan), with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, ending her 26th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, conducting Operations in the Pacific Ocean, on her 16th “WestPac,” her 26th South China Sea, on her sixth Indian Ocean deployment, to what turned out to be an extended Cruise, traveling through the Lombok Strait, on her third Arabian Sea, extending operations on her, 1st North Arabian Sea on "GONZO" Station and her 2nd Gulf of Oman, due to the continuing Iranian Hostage Crisis in Iran. Militant followers of the Ayatollah Khomeini, who had come to power following the overthrow of the Shah, seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran on 4 November and held 63 U.S. citizens hostage. Spokesmen for the mob demanded that the United States return to Iran the deposed Shah who was in a New York hospital at the time. On 18 November 1979, Midway arrived in the northern part of the Arabian Sea in connection with the continuing hostage crisis in Iran. Militant followers of the Ayatollah Khomeini, who had come to power following the overthrow of the Shah, seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran on 4 November and held 63 U.S. citizens hostage. Spokesmen for the mob demanded that the United States return to Iran the deposed Shah who was in a New York hospital at the time. Midway conducted WASEX/AAWEX and other exercises conducted on 3 October 1979 and STORM EVASION to east of northern Luzon on 5 October 1979. Midway arrived Subic Bay, R.P. for on-load prior to Indian Ocean Deployment on 8 October 1979, underway for Indian Ocean Transit to Subic Bay from 30 September 1979 to 7 October 1979. COMNAVAIRPAC, Vice Admiral Coogan visited Midway again on 8 October 1979.
The visitors included:
VADM R. P. Coogan COMNAVAIRPAC CAPT R. R. Worchesek Force Shore Activities CAPT J. J. Ryan Force Material Officer CAPT W. K. Rhodes, Jr. Force Safety Officer CAPT H. F. Lenhardt, Jr. Force Operations Officer CAPT D. E. Riggs Force Personnel Officer CAPT D. R. Mummert Force Supply Officer CAPT W. H. Reed, Jr. Executive Assistant LCDR T. W. Finta Flag Lieutenant AVCM W. R. Huie Force Master Chief
Midway departed Subic Bay, R.P. on the morning of 10 October 1979, inport Subic, for on-load prior to Indian Ocean Deployment from 8 to 9 October 1979, en route to a highly anticipated port visit in Perth, Australia. Midway conducted AAWEX on 10 October 1979 and Transit to Indian Ocean from 10 to 13 October 1979, moving south toward Lombok Strait and on 13 October entered the Realm of King Neptunus Rex for the second time in 1979. This time there were 1347 "slimy pollywogs" cleansed in ceremonies aboard the ship and turned into Trusted Shellbacks. On 14 October 1979 Midway transited the Lombok Strait and entered the Indian Ocean. Midway conducted Exercise Fortress Warrior on 17 October 1979 and AAWEX/ASWEX along with Exercise Fortress Warrior on 19 October 1979. From 15 to 19 October 1979, Midway, as the flagship for TG 70.1, moved south, along the Western Australia coast, en route to Perth, Australia. Midway conducted exercises Fortress Warrior on 17 October 1979 and ASWEX on 18 October 1979. Distinguished Australian Government officials were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Gureck and Captain Carmichael on the 18th. The guests were provided with an introduction to U. S. SEVENTH Fleet carrier operations and an opportunity to observe Midway/CVW-5 flight operations from 18 to 19 October 1979. Heading the guest list was the Australian Secretary of Defense, Prichet. Dignitaries included:
Mr. N. F. Attwood, Deputy Secretary, Manpower and Financial Services Mr. J. Moten, Acting First Secretary, Secretary for Force Development and Analysis Division Mr. N. L. Webb, Assistant Secretary Strategic Review and Controller Defense Systems Management Course.
Media personnel were:
Mr. Don Smith, Cameraman, ABC Television Mr. Geoff McKell, Sound, ABC Television Mr. Chris Hunt, Journalist, ABC Television Mr. Thomas Drewell, Journalist, Channel 9 TV Mr. Kevin Riechelt, Cameraman, Channel 9 TV Mr. John Ibbs, Photographer, Sunday Times Mr. John Clune, Reporter, Channel 7 TV Mr. Brian Dunne, Cameraman, Channel 7 TV Mr. Alan Hale, Reporter, West Australian Mr. Rod Taylor, Reporter, West Australian Mr. Tony McDonough, Photographer, Sunday Independent Mr. John Brown, Reporter, Sunday Independent.
Midway anchored off Freemantle, Australia the morning of 20 to 24 October 1979 for a memorable five day visit to Perth. While at anchor, Midway held open house daily for thousands of visiting Australians. Reluctantly, Midway departed her anchorage the morning of 25 October 1979 en route operations in the vicinity of Diego Garcia. Midway conducted Transit to Diego Garcia from 25 October to 1 November 1979. Numerous drills and exercises were conducted onboard Midway en route Diego Garcia and the task group arrived as scheduled on 4 November 1979 when a CVW-5 MISSILEX was flown. Midway departed the area off Diego Garcia en route her second port call to Mombasa, Kenya in 1979. En route, Midway and CVW-5 conducted a successful PASSEX with two Kenyan Patrol Boats on 8 November 1979 and AAWEX on 26 October 1979. Midway Aircraft services provided for HMS TORRENS; Exercise Fortress Warrior on 27 October 1979. Midway conducted WASEX/JAMEX conducted against HMS TORRENS on 30 October 1979. Midway was underway in the vicinity of Diego Garcia from 2 to 4 November 1979. Midway conducted MISSILEX on 4 November 1979 and Transit to Mombasa, Kenya from 5 to 8 November 1979. Midway conducted PASSEX with two KENYAN Navy Patrol 8 November 1979. Midway arrived in Mombasa, Kenya on 9 November 1979 for a four day visit. Midway was inport from 9 to 12 November 1979. Midway got underway Mombasa, Kenya the morning of 13 November 1979 for what was then believed to be a few weeks at sea period in the Arabian sea; however, with the hostage situation in Iran more than a week old, a lengthier at sea period was anticipated. Little did anyone know that Midway would still be at sea in the Gulf of Oman by the close of 1979. The visit was pleasant and was highlighted by a visit of members of the diplomatic corps from Nairobi, headed by Wilbert John LeMelle, U. S. Ambassador to Kenya and guests were welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Gureck and Captain "E" I. Carmichael on 10 November 1979. The visitors were divided into two groups and were escorted through aircraft static displays in the Hangar Bay as well as tour of the ship by COMCARGRU SEVEN (On 3 September Midway departed Hong Kong and elements of COMCARGRU SEVEN, including Rear Admiral Gureck, came aboard.) and Commanding Officer, USS Midway. Tour included static aircraft/ selected ordnance display in hangar bay, ride on aircraft elevator to flight deck, navigation bridge, and VF-151 Ready Room for viewing of movie "Sea Legs". Informal briefings were given at each location about functions of space/ aircraft. Luncheon in wardroom was hosted by COMCARGRU SEVEN and CO USS Midway. Guests were most impressed by Midway and her Air Wing. All visitors commented favorably on the enthusiasm and professional knowledge of officers/ men manning the static displays. Many of the guests commented on the efficiency of the U. S. Navy, as demonstrated by aircraft and aircraft carrier. Discussion topics and questions were non-political and limited primarily to the capabilities of Midway and the task group, except as noted below: Ambassador LeMelle in his remarks to the group at the conclusion of the visit commented upon the world-wide responsibilities of the United States and the Navy's role in fulfilling them. Ambassador LeMelle also commented upon the necessity for the U. S. naval presence in the Indian Ocean and thanked his fellow ambassadors for coming to Midway to demonstrate their support for the U. S. position. His remarks were warmly received. The visiting ambassadors were keenly aware of the U. S. position in world leadership and appeared to strongly support it. All visitors expressed their thanks and appreciation for the opportunity to visit, and for the hospitality extended. Ambassador LeMelle was openly pleased with the U. S. Navy performance in support of the visit. Members of the party were:
H.E. The High Commissioner of Cyprus and Mrs. F. A. Grammenopoulos H.E. The Ambassador of Columbia and Mrs. De Nannetti Concha H.E. The Ambassador of Switzerland and Mrs. H. Miesch H.E. The Ambassador of Spain and Marchioness De Castrol De Torres H.E. The Ambassador of the United States and Mrs. LeMelle and son Gerald H.E. The Ambassador of the Netherlands and Mrs. R. J. Van Schaik H.E. The High Commissioner of Nalawi and Mrs. R. L. Mkomba H.E. The Ambassador of Belgium and Vicountess Vilain
Midway commenced Transit to Gulf of Oman on 13 November 1979. Vice Adm. S. R. Foley, COMSEVENTHFLT, flew aboard Midway and was welcomed aboard by Rear Admiral Gureck and Captain Carmichael on 15 November 1979. During the visit, he observed launches and recoveries on a scheduled overnight visit as a port of his trip through the Indian Ocean from 15 to 16 November 1979. First two Soviet IL-38/MAY aircraft were intercepted and escorted by Midway aircraft on 16 November 1979. On l6 November 1979 as CTF 77 task group was east of Somalia, the first of numerous surveillance flights against Midway was conducted by two Soviet IL-38/MAY aircraft. As in every case, the Soviet aircraft were intercepted and escorted within the existing Rules of Engagement. Midway continued a northeastward transit and arrived in the northern Arabian Sea on 18 November 1979 where she would spend the rest of 1979. Midway conducted Transit to Gulf of Oman from 13 to 20 November 1979. Two IL-38 MAY aircraft intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft in the vicinity of Battle Group ALFA on 24 November 1979 and on 27 November 1979. One IRANIAN P-3 aircraft intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft on 1 December 1979. Two OMANI JAGUAR aircraft intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft on 3 December 1979. Two OMANI aircraft intercepted and escorted and one IRANIAN P-3 aircraft intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft on 5 December 1979. VF-161 of CVW-5 receives Golden Anchor Award on 7 December 1979. Two OMANI JAGUAR aircraft intercepted and escorted and Two Soviet AN-12 CUB aircraft intercepted and escorted HARPOONEX on 26 December 1979 and two IL-38 MAY aircraft were intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft on 17 December 1979. One Soviet AN-12 CUB aircraft intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft on 18 December 1979. Midway conducted WASEX against SAN JOSE 19 December 1979 and HARPOONEX on 26 December 1979 and two IL-38 MAY aircraft were intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft on 27 December 1979. Midway conducted HARPOONEX on 28 December 1979 and one AN-22 COCK aircraft was intercepted and escorted by CVW-5 aircraft on 29 December 1979. Midway/CVW-5 complete 18,000 consecutive accident 31 December 1979. Midway was underway on GONZO Station, Gulf of Oman from 21 November to 31 December 1979. These six weeks were spent in constant alert and, while numerous ship and air wing drills and exercises were conducted, Midway and her task group encountered daily surface surveillance by Soviet surface ships. Periodic air surveillance was also conducted the Soviet, Omani, Pakistani and Iranian aircraft. Midway closed the year on what the ship affectionately named "Gonzo Station." The ship was superbly supported by the families left behind as well as the support activities throughout “WestPac” which kept the ship and air wing in a maximum readiness state. Our special thanks for the Christmas Express provided the ship was as follows: "As the holiday season draws to a close we would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks to all those involved in making Christmas 1979 a special occasion. From an idea in Yokosuka, action was initiated to make the "Christmas Express" happen. The packages arrived via USS Wabash (AOR-5) "Cannon-ball" on Christmas morning; the timing was perfect. Again, an idea here on Midway for a Navy Exchange catalog order program to get gifts home for Christmas was implemented immediately and was also a successful endeavor, as a result of a lot of effort on many people's part. Christmas is a special time of year with a special, meaning. The joy of Christmas could not have been demonstrated more vividly than by the efforts of all who put forth so much to make our Christmas a special occasion so many miles from home. Our sincere thanks and deep appreciation is extended to each of you for your magnificent support. The Navy is a great organization. Have a Happy New Year!" Midway/CVW-5 closed out 1979 with a special achievement of having completed 18,000 consecutive accident free hours and was personally commended by Rear Admiral Kirksey, CTF 77. The year began as 1979 ended, with Midway in the Northern Arabian Sea on "Gonzo" station. Midway conducted MODLOC Operations on 1 January 1980. USS Bainbriidge (CGN-25); USS Parsons (DDG-33) and USS Knox (FF-1052) commenced operations with Midway on 1 January 1980. CVW-5 aircraft continued to intercept and escort Soviet reconnaissance aircraft that operated in the vicinity of the BG, escorting three Soviet AN-12 aircraft on 3 January 1980 and CVW-5 aircraft escorted two Soviet AN-12 aircraft on 4 January 1980. PXO, CDR K. K. Carlsen arrives on-board Midway on 7 January 1980 and Indian merchant seaman provided medical aid on 8 January 1980. An F-4J assigned to VF-151 is lost after a catapult launch off Midway in the Indian Ocean on 7 January 1980. Both crewmembers eject safely. Midway was on station with USS Kitty Kawk (CV-63) in early January 1980, conducting AAWEX vs. Nimitz on 21 January 1980. Nimitz arrived on station 22 January 1980 and a complete TF70 photo was taken on 23 January with three carrier BG's in formation. TF 70 Photo (Kitty Kawk and Nimitz WASEX vs. USS Fanning (FF-1076) on 23 January 1980. Nimitz and her escort ships joined Kitty Hawk and Midway and their escort ships on station in the Arabian Sea on 22 January 1980. Battle Group Bravo was centered upon three carriers: Kitty Hawk, Nimitz, and Midway, together with 12 escort and support ships. CVW-5 aircraft escorted two OMANI JAGUAR aircraft on 24 January 1980. January 1980 was also the month in which Midway Medical Department performed surgery on an Indian seaman from a British merchant ship. The ship had radioed Midway for medical assistance. RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU FIVE, CTF-70, came aboard Midway and visited with RADM Gureck. Lunch was served in the Flag Mess on 1 February 1980. After lunch, RADM Kirksey met CCG-7 staff, RADM Kirksey presented the Golden Anchor Runner-up Award to CAPT Carmichael over KMID-TV. Midway commenced Navy Technical Proficiency Inspection (NTPI) on 1 February 1980. Midway conducted MODLOC Operations from 1 January to 2 February 1980. CVW-5 aircraft performed a live ordnance display for all BG Alpha ships on 3 February 1980. USS Coral Sea (CV-43) with CVW-14 Air Wing and COMCARGROUP THREE embarked, was in the North Arabian Sea on Gonzo Station on 4 February 1980, having been established following the November 1979 takeover of the American Embassy in Tehran, Iran. The same day, Coral Sea cross-decked with Midway at sea off loading supplies and two E-2B aircraft were flown over. A turn over brief was also conducted between both ship’s officers. Midway began a homeward transit from an I. O. Deployment that began in October 1979. After leaving Singapore, Coral Sea was at sea for 7-days at the time she relieved Midway in the northern part of the Arabian Sea, during which time Midway departed on 5 February 1980 in connection with the continuing hostage crisis in Iran. Midway conducted NTPI from 1 to 4 February 1980. CV-41 received a satisfactory NTPI rating. Midway conducted Transit MODLOC to Subic from 3 to 13 February 1980. Midway and her BG passed abeam Singapore 9 February 1980 and arrived in Subic 13 February, capping an uneventful IO/SCS transit. Fourteen members of the Japanese Diet, including ADM Kazutemi Ushida, came aboard Midway for a tour of the ship on 10 February 1980. The group viewed the movie "Sea Legs" in the Wardroom and then toured the ship. Midway made a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. from 13 to 16 February 1980. CPO vs. Officers softball game on 14 February 1980. After a 4 day Subic Bay visit which saw the officers soundly defeat the CPO's in a traditional softball game, Midway departed Subic for Yokosuka. Midway conducted Transit Subic to Yokosuka from 16 to 20 February 1980. COMSEVENTHFLT, VADM C. A. E. Trost arrived Midway via helo and was met by the CO, and XO. Refreshments were served, followed by a tour of the ship including AIMD spaces on 20 February 1980. VADM Trost departed the ship by helo. Ports of call included: Subic Bay, R.P. ; Freemantle, Australia; Mombasa, Kenya and Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines, U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay, a bay forming part of Luzon Sea on the west coast of the island of Luzon in Zambales, Philippines, about 100 kilometers northwest of Manila Bay and is a major ship-repair, supply, and rest and recreation facility of the United States Navy located in Olongapo, Zambales, Philippines. Squadrons: VF-161, F-4S; VMFP-3 Det., RF-4B; VF-151, F-4S; VA-93, A-7E; VA-56, A-7E; VA-115, A6-E/KA-6D / *A-6E TRAM/KA-6D; VAW-115, E-2B; VAQ-136, EA-6B and HC-1 Det. 2, SH-3G. *AN/AAS-33 TRAM (Target Recognition and Attack, Multi-Sensor system; redesignated CV-41, reclassifying a Multi-Purpose aircraft carrier on 30 June 1975. Her 28th deployment since her second recommission 31 January 1970, following completion of a four-year conversion-modernization at the San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard, arriving 11 February 1966, ending the year of 1965 upon arrival from her seventh “WestPac” deployment, operating with the Pacific Fleet and the 7th Fleet, her seventh South China Sea, on her first Vietnam Combat Cruise on “Yankee Station,” in the Gulf of Tonkin in the Far East. Her 34th deployment since her first recommission upon completion of SCB-110 (August 1955 to 30 September 1957), decommissioning in August 1955 upon arrival from her World Cruise and first “WestPac” deployment, operating with the U.S. Atlantic Command (USLANTCOM) (Atlantic Fleet), operational control extending to the 2nd Fleet and Pacific Fleet and tour of duty with the 7th Fleet, on her first South China Sea deployment, for a five month SCB-110 modernization that included new innovations such as an enclosed bow and an angled flight deck to be installed at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton Washington; redesignated CVA-41 on 1 October 1952. Her 44th Foreign Water Fleet Deployment (FWFD) since her commission 10 September 1945, having the destination of being the lead ship of her class, and the first to be commissioned after the end of lead ship of her class, and the first to be commissioned after the end of World War II (30 September 1979 to 20 February 1980)” (Ref. 1-Midway, 72 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1979/80).
30/09/79 to 20/02/80
26th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, on her 16th “WestPac” (1979-80) Senior Command and Staff - USS Midway (CV 41) WestPac Cruise Book 1979-80 – Chapter 63, Appendix I.
1979 VISITS AND CEREMONIES ABOARD USS MIDWAY (CV-41) – Chapter 63, Appendix II.
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