Laffey Field Day Scheduled
 

Care to take a step back in time?  Who wouldn’t? Of course one can’t really do that but it seems to come mighty close when you participate in a Field Day on one of the nation’s naval floating museums. 

We’re fortunate to have a shipmate who is the facilitator for one such museum, the USS Laffey (DD724) permanently berthed at Patriots Point at Mount Pleasant, (Charleston) South Carolina. Shipmate Hoot Gibson (FTS1, 57-60) will be the Duty BM and Taskmaster for the operation.  This will be the second year we’ve participated in this program which will hopefully be an annual event. 

The dates for the Field Day are 24 Sep thru 01 Oct, 2006. Volunteers will begin arriving Sunday afternoon and depart the following Sunday after breakfast.  There is NO requirement to commit to the full tour.  Participants may arrive and depart on any of the above days as their personal schedule permits. (See Signup Sheet) 

Participants will be berthed and fed aboard ship however there are limited billets so participants should have confirmation from the Ship’s Office. 

Hoot advises that since our crew is a “Can Do” crew, he’ll be calling for Holiday Routine on Thursday to allow the duffers in the crew to enjoy a round or two of golf.  You need to let us know if you’ll be bringing your golf clubs. 

What is done during the course of the Field Day? As one might imagine, keeping a 62 year old steel ship looking “showroom new” is no small task. Most museums are operating with minimal resources when is comes to Maintenance, Repair and Upkeep.  That’s where they look to outside funding and manpower to keep things afloat. (No pun intended.)  Patriots Point is no exception.
 

Patriots Point relies on outside organizations to supplement fund and manpower to accomplish their mission.  

Our volunteer effort is to help with the maintenance and upkeep of the USS Laffey.  You should be aware that this is a work detail that will be consistent with the talent and capabilities of each man.  Working from a master plan of the museum, we have specific objectives for the week.  As always, “Safety First” is prime concern and no man will be put at risk.  “Maintenance and Upkeep” can refer to any task from chipping/priming/painting to simple cleaning a space to brighten it up for the continuous flow of visitors aboard the ship.  Additionally, there is the duty of greeting visitors and answering questions about the ship and its operation. 

A Few Words About The Physical Demands
Considering the median age of our shipmates, you should be aware of the physical demands you will encounter.  Unlike when we were aboard ship in our late teens, moving about the ship will be more challenging.  Steel ladders will seem steeper, hatches narrower and coamings higher.  (Not to mention the extra pounds you may be lugging around.)  And yes, age does take its toll. 

If you’re not on an exercise program, start one which is approved by your physician. 

If you are on a program, consider modifying your program to include stair climbing and/or bicycling to improve the condition of your legs and prepare you for your Field Day tour.  (From personal experience, I didn’t and I paid the price of pain.)  In following this recommendation you find it only serves to make the onboard experience more enjoyable.  See you on the Laffey!
 

Field Day 06 Report