(Winky’s plush Philippine rattan cruisebox quarters have not survived the years since 1980, his last embarked and underway period on the Best Damn Carrier in the Fleet. For now, Ship’s Company personnel have reserved a special berthing arrangement in the legendary Ship’s Library in order for Winky to be rapidly accessible to answer emerging questions on efficient crisis operations in the Pacific, South China Sea and Indian Oceans).

With his escort, Pat Alderman, the trip from the Atlantic Seaboard was meticulously executed. They would both like to express their gratitude and thanks to the people who prepared a magnificent “welcome back” ceremony.

There was considerable buzz along the waterfront. Before he even came aboard, one of the safety team inquired if he was here, and took a pre-boarding picture to document the return.

John Bing escorted the party up to the Quarterdeck where Winky’s name was posted at the top of the list.

Phil Eakin had the watch as Officer of the Deck, and organized the short but impressive ceremony. John Bing and George Sykes served as side boys. Alan Blake took a video and still pictures of the ceremony for the permanent record.

The ceremony was fully compliant with ancient Naval tradition. OOD Phil rang the Quarterdeck bell twice and called the party to order. All 3 men in full-dress Curatorial uniform saluted while Winky and his aide crossed the brow and reported “his return aboard.” The OOD gave permission and Winky executed an appropriate plush puppet approximation of a crisp hand salute.

As returning members of the CV-41/CVW-5 team, the party retired to the library and enjoyed superb donuts. Winky reportedly was in a bit of a nostalgic funk, since his last documented Midway pastry product was baked south of the Sagami-Wan channel approaching Midway’s then-home port of Yokosuka, Japan (June, 1980). As Winky noted to his aide, Pat, he prefers the current ship’s berthing in lovely San Diego Harbor. He has always preferred the view of Point Loma to that of Flight Deck Integrity peeks of Mount Fujiyama.

Winky
LTJG USN-Ret.

Copyright 2021 LTJG Winky, USN-Ret. Photos Pat Alderman
www.vicsocotra.com