“My pleasure, sir, are you her pilot?”
“Well, it seems so for now. Anything particular about this aircraft, I should know?”
“No sir, we have a green log, with no complaints or notations. The last verbal mention was that she handles like a lady.”
“That’s good to know. It’s always nice to start with a clean slate. Who was the pilot?”
“Lieutenant Rader, sir. He usually doesn’t say anything; it was a surprise,” he said.”
“Thank you, Petty Officer. How many hours on her?”
“Four since her overhaul and update. She is in top condition.”
“I told him I’d do my best to keep her in one piece.”
“We walked slowly about the aircraft, closely checking her over, watching for any signs of oil drips or smears. The plane was clean, with no signs of leaks or any other abnormalities. I was looking forward to flying the little fighter. I knew they were easy to fly and responsive to the slightest movement of the stick.”
“The morning went by quickly, and we headed for the wardroom where the atmosphere was much better, the last pilot assigned had arrived before we set sail. It was his turn to field the questions sent his way, and it provided me an opportunity to make myself as inconspicuous as possible.”
“The afternoon was spent in the ready room where all the pilots and crew assembled for training and flight preparation. The squadron was going out on a training hop and for some touch and go bumps on the flight deck, all designed for familiarization.”
“The pilots and radiomen copied the frequencies they would be using. The pre-flight briefing was conducted by the Squadron Commander. Everyone would be required to conduct five successful touch and goes, then two recoveries and launches.”
“My last recovery following a good first showing was made after the sun dropped into the western Pacific. Only the landing lights on the ship were lit, showing the landing strip. I leveled out the little fighter and recycled the tail hook. Then set the wing and engine flaps for speed and temperature control respectively. I watched the lighted paddles of the Landing Officer as I approached the stern of the carrier. I was thankful we had a calm sea, giving the ship only a small indication of a pitch.”
“I caught the number three wire; the fighter halted with a good jerk. The tail wheel bounced on the wooden deck once then set down. Then a deckman made sure the wire had disengaged the hook, and I was given the sign to raise and lock the hook into its parked position. With a sharp eye on the maneuvering officer, I received the signal to fold my wings. After pulling the locking lever, the crew pushed the wings into their folded position and locked there. I was sent to the elevator and taken down to the hangar deck.”
“I climbed the ladder and headed to the ready room for the debriefing. That’s when I found I placed fifth in overall points for the proper wire caught, approach, launch, and following instructions. They stowed their gear, and the pilots cleaned up and made ready for the evening meal. At dinner, the topic was, of course, the day’s events in the air.”
“Commander Hodges said to me, “Farmer, you did a respectable day work this afternoon. I do believe your time in your Jenny did you well.” I thought that was a pretty nice compliment.”
“Thank you, sir; she’s a fine flying plane.”
“Good, keep up the good work.” He said, then turned to the squadron, “Tomorrow we’ll do it all again, then in the afternoon, we’ll head for our live-fire area for some target practice.”
“I took time out to write home as I promised. I feel that’s important to keep the home folks from over worrying.”
“When I returned to the stateroom, Lieutenant Rader was reading at the small desk. He looked up as I entered, “How are you doing? Good show on your efforts today, you showed the marks of a natural-born flyer.”
“I was stunned at the Lieutenant speaking to me. I told him, “Thank you, sir. It was good to get into the air.”
“You like flying, don’t you?”
“Yes sir, I do, so much that I bought my first plane when I was sixteen, a Jenny. I still have her at the farm.”
“I would up that to a serious flyer, to buy one at sixteen. Did you have anyone provide training?”
“No, sir, I guess you would say I winged it.”
“Trained yourself to fly, now that’s one for the books. I underestimated your capabilities. You’re to be congratulated. Teaching one’s self to fly is a hell of an accomplishment in any man’s book. I’d bet you didn’t have much trouble mastering flight at any level in training.”
“I hit the books a lot, just to make sure I was going by the book.”
“Can I give you a bit of advice?” The lieutenant offered.
“I’ll take all the advice I can get, sir.”
“When you’re in that cockpit, be a part of the aircraft. Let it become an extension of you, and you’ll more than fly.”
CHAPTER NINE
The two damaged destroyers made good time heading for the ‘Paradise of the Pacific.’ The glow from the east gave the promise of a clear sky with a bright sun and warm temperatures. Hawaii’s bathers could face a nasty sunburn if not protected by sun oil.
“Signal,” the OOD called, “have AGAR fall in astern for entering port.”
“Aye, sir.”
As the ships headed for Oahu and Pearl Harbor, they fell into a line formation and slowed as a boat met them two miles out for harbor pilots to board both ships and escort them through the minefield. At the entrance into the harbor, a tug pulled open the anti-torpedo and submarine net, allowing the two ships in. The pilots guided the ships past a couple of hidden traps for any subs that managed to sneak through as they did on December seventh.
The ships were taken to the East Loch and tied to a buoy away from other ships. Another boat pulled up to the AGAR, and several officers boarded the tied-up ships. Bells were rung for the officers as they boarded according to their rank and position. They began ringing on the HALLIS as they crossed over to her. Captain Tyson was on the quarterdeck to greet them.
“Welcome aboard, sir,” he said to the four striper.
“We understand you picked up some Japanese hardware.”
“Yes sir, it’s under our after-engine room reduction gears.”
“We have two EOD trained men with us, and we need to evaluate the situation before planning its removal. Move your crew to the AGAR, and she will standoff until the all-clear is given.
“I understand, sir. XO clear the ship.”
“Aye, sir.”
Ten minutes later, the HALLIS was a ghost ship except for the EOD team. They approached the torpedo with all the caution of approaching any explosive. The second item was the condition and configuration of the angle irons, available level deck space, and the surrounding supporting structure. Although jammed under the reduction gears, the torpedo was accessible for their purposes. The two men returned to the walkway for a few tools. A short time later, they had access to the detonator and found the Chief’s assessment was correct; the torpedo buried itself into the destroyer before it armed itself.
Ten minutes later, the detonator was removed, and the torpedo was classified as dangerous but disarmed. The AGAR returned to the buoy, and then the crew was allowed to return to the ship.
The shipyard supervisor turned to the Captain, “Captain, at this point, I’ll need you to go cold iron and use your diesel generator for essentials. We’ll have a couple of yard tugs take you to the dry dock. Barracks have been set aside for your crew, and the Officer’s BOQ can handle your officers. Nobody will be allowed near the ship while we extract the torpedo.”
“Understood, sir. The OOD will have the engineers secure the boilers and engines, and light off the diesel generator for essential use only. OOD carry out the order.”
“Aye, sir.”
“We will get the ship ready, sir; the plant should be secured and cooling by the time your tugs arrive.”
Very well, I’ll take my leave, Captain; als
o, I want you to note; my initial report will show you run a squared away ship, congratulations.”
“Thank you, sir.”
Immediately following the officer’s departure, the crew made the ship ready for towing. In Main Control, Mr. Lanner directed the shutdown of the propulsion plant and established essential electrical power through the diesel generator.
True to the shipyard supervisor, two-yard tugs pulled up to the HALLIS, and the crew began attaching them to the ship with heavy towing lines. The AGAR had backed away and was already steaming to the yard pier under her power and the control of a pilot.
****
At the Pearl Harbor base hospital, a Hospitalman informed Lieutenant Lanner, “Lieutenant, were you aware a couple of destroyers have tied up in the East Loch, and one is the HALLIS?”
“No, I wasn’t; where did you get your information?”
“I have a buddy who told me about it, and I borrowed a pair of large binoculars. I checked out the new arrivals, and it is indeed the Lieutenant’s ship.”
Maggie went to the shift supervisor, and with the current staff to take care of the patients balancing out, he gave her the rest of the day off. “Sir, after Chris returns to the South Pacific, I’ll make my self available for any additional shifts as needed.”
“I hope it doesn’t come to that, but I call on you if needed, now I suggest you get ready for some serious liberty.”
“Thank you again, sir.”
With their quarters within walking distance to the hospital, it didn’t take her long to get home to make herself exceptionally alluring for her husband. Following a soothing bath, she powdered herself an applied a light dab of perfume in seductive locations. Her deep red hair had grown out, and she combed it into a flowing swirl that she draped over her right shoulder. Then she used a strong hairpin to hold a white Pulmeria behind her left hair. She wore it in conformance with the Hawaiian culture of her being a married or an unavailable woman. Women wearing a flower behind the right ear signifies that she is available.
Maggie easily slipped into a cool sleeveless V neck dress with Spaghetti straps. Its base color was a deep blue that set off the vibrant green and red printed palm leaves in the design. The entire dress complimented her red hair and emerald earrings.
A quick call to the base operations center told her where and when men from the ship would be arriving at their temporary housing facility. Maggie started their nineteen-forty Mercury convertible and lowered the top. She slipped the car into gear, and the near-silent engine easily drove along the base streets at the posted speed limits.
Along the way, she received a great number of admiring looks. Being a naval officer and a married woman, she paid attention to her driving, not the men.
The Lieutenant found a parking place in the BOQ parking lot and stepped out of the red Mercury to look around. Ten minutes later, a bus pulled up, and a line of officers disembarked. One of the last officers was the most handsome sailor she had ever seen. Saying nothing, she stood quietly while the men conducted their business. Then they broke ranks and headed toward the building. It was then Maggie noticed that three other Navy wives had pulled in. They gathered together, watching the men like panthers eyeballing a gazelle as a potential meal.
Lieutenant Chris Lanner glanced about the BOQ barracks and the parking lot, stopping in mid-stride. Maggie’s magnificent stature stood out among the women; her red hair perfectly complimented by her apparel. His heart skipped a beat, and he felt a flush of heat throughout his being at the sight of his wife.
Maggie struggled to maintain her composure, but the glow in her face told another story. She wanted to rush to him and wrap herself about him and shower him with kisses, as all the wives wanted.
Chris set his bag down and walked increasingly faster toward her. With tears of happiness forming, Maggie could no longer hold herself back and broke ranks toward him. The move was like a signal, and the other wives and husbands met halfway in tight clenches and kisses of love and promise.
The single men set up temporary housekeeping in the barracks. As one of his last acts, the outgoing XO arranged for the crew to remain in the barracks during their yard period. The officers had plenty of room at the BOQ. The men who're married and their wives on the island were able to go home.
Maggie and Chris hopped into the convertible, and Chris headed for their small home. Ten minutes later, Chris carried the beautiful red-head across the threshold, something they weren’t able to accomplish during the short time they had together following their marriage. Once in the privacy of their home, the rite of becoming re-acquainted began.
The Lanner’s snuggled in bed as the bright morning sun began beckoning to them. They told one another their adventures of the past few months of separation. Then Chris told his wife of his upcoming position and promotion. Maggie let out a squeal and crushed him against her in a tight grasp. After several minutes she rolled atop of him, “You know that is cause for a celebration, and we’re going to begin right now.” She locked her legs about Chris and gave him a deep kiss of desire.
Later, following a shared shower that threatened to get the bed wet, they dressed and promised to behave for the rest of the daylight.
Maggie wanted to take Chris to the Base Exchange and get his dress uniforms updated with the correct rank and awards. They also picked up a handful of collar devices in his new rank for the khaki and undress whites.
With the rest of Saturday and after church on Sunday, the two spent time together seeing many of the sights Hawaii held. During the evenings, it was relishing the different dinner and night clubs before returning to their home transformed into a lover’s nest.
Monday, the crew mustered in front of the barracks. With the ship being off-limits, the crew was given an extra holiday for their outstanding record in the South Pacific.
“Mr. Lanner,” the Chief Engineer began. “You and I will spend most of today and possibly part of tomorrow with the transfer of duties. We only have today and tomorrow, so let’s get busy.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Well, Mr. Lanner, this went smoother than I envisioned. We’ve finished, and it’s only sixteen-fifteen. I suspect you’ll be wanting to get home right away?”
“It crossed my mind, sir. I’m sure the Mrs. has something planned. By your leave, sir, I’ll see you in the morning?”
“Yes, and I understand the promotion ceremonies will be conducted at the reception at thirteen-hundred hours tomorrow, don’t be late.”
“Not a chance, sir.”
Chris walked through the doorway. He didn’t get a yard, and the patter of feet was the first thing he heard, then his hundred-twenty-pound, five-foot-ten wife wrapped herself around him, smothering him with kisses. “Wow,” was all he could get out between her soft lips devouring him and her hands exploring every inch of his physique. It didn’t take any time at all for Chris to know there was only one way to bring Maggie back to earth.
Later, he asked, “You were seriously wound up, what going on, Hun?”
“I know, I’ve missed you more than you can believe, and I get all worked up thinking of you. Then you walked through the door, and I couldn’t restrain myself.”
“I’m not complaining; a matter of fact, I feel flattered. No man could ask for greater receptions.”
The following day, with both Chris and Maggie in dress whites, they attended the promotion ceremony. The Captain called the first officer forward, “Mr. Braxton, front and center.” The XO stepped up, and the Captain read his orders, “you will attend the Prospective Commanding Officers Course to be convened at Pearl Harbor Naval Base, Hawaii.” Captain Tyson handed the officer his orders, they saluted, and the now-former XO returned to the ranks.
“Lieutenant DeMar, front and center.” The process was repeated, with the exception that DeMar was headed for Executive Officer’s Course, also at Pearl.
Lieutenant Junior Grade Chris Lanner, front and center.” Again, the military greetings took place. “Lieutenant J
unior Grade Christopher Lanner, United States Navy. You are promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, with all the rights and responsibilities commensurate with your rank. You will assume the position of Chief Engineering Officer of the USS HALLIS. You are given seven days' leave to prepare for your duties.”
Lieutenant Marie Lanner, front and center.” Maggie moved before the Captain and saluted him, then he said, “You will pin the appropriate rank of Lieutenant on Mr. Lanner.” Maggie turned around, and she was sporting the widest smile ever seen as she exchanged the JG boards for full Lieutenant and pinned the ‘Rail-road Tracks’ on his collar.
The Captain switched off the microphone and said, “Now you two get out of here and celebrate for a week. That’s an order.”
The ceremony resumed with Machinist’s Mate Chief Banner being given a commission as an Ensign. Banner had studied hard for his BS in Mechanical Engineering.
“Chief Banner spent a lot of his off time in studying and preparing himself for this day.” The Captain announced. “Every enlisted man on this ship can do the same thing, and I encourage every one of you to pursue this opportunity.”
The Lanner’s stayed until the end of the ceremony; then, both congratulated the new Ensign. Then it was a quick trip to the car, and home to change. The week of celebration began.
****
Days quickly melted into weeks with the two destroyers moving into a training phase for the old hands and the many new members of the crew. “Have you had any trouble getting set in, XO?”
“No, sir, Commander Braxton was a great help.”
The new Executive Officer, Lieutenant Michael J. McGuire, came aboard the HALLIS as the new XO shortly after the thirteen- hundred ceremonies two days earlier.
“I have no doubts you will be an excellent XO. Learn everything you can about your position, because it won’t be too long, and you will begin training for a Commanding Officers billet.
“Aye, sir, that’s what I’ve heard.”
“What do you think of our ship?”
Attack of the Greyhounds Page 10