Mike, I was on the Ike from 1988-1991 and had some great times onboard. It was my first sea duty command and I really liked it.

I agree, she was a great ship. The late 70's was a tough time to be serving in our Navy..little did we know it would get worse before turning itself around.

Yep, I'm glad I waited until the 80's to go to sea. It was pretty wild in the 70's, even at shore where I was. I stayed in the active reserves from 79-83 and then went active again in 1984.

After reading all this and my previous input. I REFUSE to go to Japan. Only way I am going in on a Port Call. Even then why get off the ship? There is no point if they can't trust an E-5/6 on liberty then why even try to cross the brow,