In a previous post I have made reference to an old battleship called the USS Texas and made known that I served aboard the ship during WW11.
© Bob Rickert Photography
For the last few years my three sons and one grandson have let it be known that they would very much like to visit the ship which is located near Houston Texas.
We finally chose a date for our visit which coincided with the date set by the people at Texas for the annual ships reunion. October the 8th thru the 11th, just passed , was chosen by us to fly to Houston.
In order to set the scene you will need to know that my ship, the USS Texas is now approaching 100 years of age, and I am told it was the only Battleship in the world to fire on three continents during World War II, Europe, Asia and Africa.
The people in Texas have taken claim to the old ship and with the help of many volunteers are in the process of restoring the old ship and will make it presentable to a daily surge of tourists.
© Bob Rickert Photography
As my sons and grandson went aboard the ship on the morning of Saturday the 9th we were greeted by special escorts who had been alerted to our visit. They also knew that I served on the ship during the WW11 period as a Chief Petty officer, with duties including the engine rooms.
Our tour of the ship included many different areas but most importantly a visit four decks below the main quarterdeck which housed the main engines.
© Bob Rickert Photography
While there I was able to illustrate the workings of the very large 4 cylinder engines which were driven by steam.
I participated in an extensive interview by the restoration group spokes person, which enabled him to learn more about the ships propulsion engines under sometimes adverse conditions, especially during our stay in the South Pacific and during the Iwo Jima and the Okinawa invasions.
While aboard we attended a special ceremony, honoring those of us whom had served aboard the old ship. This was quite impressive.
© Bob Rickert Photography
We were fortunate in having one of my three sons, a professional photographer, in our group, who in turn was able to take hundreds of pictures .
© Bob Rickert Photography
We were able to conclude our tour on the following day and then fly home on Monday the 11th.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my Sons Bob Jr, Terry and Scott and my Grandson Parker for their effort in making our visit to the USS Texas a complete success.
© Bob Rickert Photography
PS I have already heard reference made to a subsequent visit to the ship, within the next year or two time frame.
