From 1974 to 1978 I was onboard the U.S.S Forrestal
CVA59. In the fours years at sea I had the privilege of seeing quite a bit
of the Mediterranean sea. In addition the U.S.S Forrestal was the hosting
ship for the 1976 Bicentennial. It was the magnificent display of the Tall
ships that set the celebration apart as any I have seen. Standing in the Hanger
Bay I almost could reach out and touch these fabulous sailing vessels. Gazing
at each one it seemed that they had been taken out of paintings and brought
to Life. Each ship firing their entry cannons as they entered the harbor and
saluting the statue of Liberty. New York was in rare form and it was my first
visit to the "Big Apple". I and three others were walking the main
streets in the trade center area and happened upon a festival in one of the
parks. Suddenly as if an explosion had occurred the crowd erupted from their
chairs and tables and moved to dancing in the streets. All traffic was stopped
and the crowd continued dancing and singing. Aside from the festive atmosphere
was the cultural exchange of people who had sailed the world over to join
in our 200th birthday. Those years sailing on the open sea are among my most
cherished moments in life. I miss the sea and the ship I sailed on... I will
always hold a special place in my heart for them both. Among the links I have
provided pictures of the Tall ships that sailed Opsail 1976 and pictures of
the U.S.S Forrestal. Here are the Stat's on the ship to give you an idea of
the size and actual capacity of what one of these carriers are like. ---->
STAT's