U.S.S. PERRY (DD844)

c/o Fleet Post Office

New York, NY

4 September 1962

Dear PERRY Family,

It has been one month since we sailed from Mayport, In this time, we have traveled nearly 5,500 miles, used 500,000 gallons of fuel oil, consumed 1,580 loaves of bread, and had one baby boy. We have relieved the GAINARD, a Newport — based destroyer, so that it can return to it’s homeport; participated in a large NPJO exercise, called RIPTIDE III, with United Kingdom, French, and Portuguese naval and air units; visited Athens, Greece; and transited the Suez Canal into the Rod Sea.

As you can readily see, it has been a busy month with many awe-inspiring experiences. You may be just1y proud of the work your husband, son or family member is doing. He has responded to every demand; and, if he has neglected to write, let me assure you that he is well. Only the heavy schedule has prevented his writing. After working twenty hours a day, a few hours of sleep often takes precedence.

If you have a map of the world, take a look at the Red Sea and Persian Gulf area. These waters will be our operating area for several months. On 6 September, we sha1l arrive at Aden at the southernmost end of Saudi Arabia. Aden is a free port and is a British Protectorate. We sha11 fuel and rest there until 10 September, when we shall move into the Persian Gulf.

Many of us took tours in Athens to see such famous places as the Acropolis, the Temple of Jupiter, and Mars Hill where the apostle Paul first preached the Christian message to the Athenians. We also went to Cape Sounion to swim, viewing the Greek countryside enroute. We found Athens today is a city of contrasts, where classic antiquity mingles with modern apartments and smart shops along street where Socrates, Plato, and St. Paul once walked.

This brief report will remind you that we think about our loved ones at home. Already, we are becoming more aware of the blessings, which we have as American citizens. We are at the fringes of Communism, ready to defend our birthright.

Sincerely,

R.B. Pond

Commander, U.S. Navy

Commanding Officer

RBP/mk