Larry Graves - The Gunney!
U.S.S. Mount Katmai AE-16 - 1963 - 1967
Mt. Katmai's pilot house. The Boatswains Mate of the Watch is scrutinzing the Helmsman as he concentrates on maintaining the assigned course.
All photos on this page, except one, are the property of Larry Graves - The Gunney - and can also be seen on his web site at http:navygunner.1afm.com/
Along with other ships he served on during his 20 years in the US Navy.
The following photos are from his time aboard the USS Mount Katmai.
This is the approaching wave that caused the spray in the next photo.
This is me as a second class Gunner's Mate, standing Shore Patrol at a shp's party on Grande Island. If memory serves correctly. "We were assigned to stand Shore Patrol duty on a rotating basis. Here, I take my turn during a ship's picnic on Grande Island in Subic Bay, Philippine Islands."
Just one of several carriers we had to replenish - USS Bon Homme Richard - CVA-31
Along-side the "Bonny Dick"
This was my second ship, USS Mount Katmai (AE16), an ammunition ship. I served nearly 4 and one half years aboard her. Three tours during Viet Nam. She was part of the Service Force Pacific Fleet (SERVPAC). Mount Katmai was decommissioned in 1973.
I reported aboard Katmai in January of 1963 and was discharge from her on 27 July 1967. Four and one half years onboard but that wasn't unusual for Gunner's Mates. The rating was considered a sea going rating. I first enlisted 28JAN58 and stayed in until I left Mt. Katmai 27JUL67. I stayed a civilian until September of 1976 and stayed in until I was transferred to the Fleet Reserves 01MAY1987 from Seal Team Six.
And, finally, a photo of Larry Graves in 2004. Take a close look, then go back to my RV pages and see my photo. We do look like twins! Must be the glasses!
Another load on the way!
We all remember the "Mess Deck" - Don't we?
Decks filled with ammo!
