https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USS_A..._W._L._CappsI've always kept my card and wanted to put a picture of the ship with it.
We were changing stations from Mare Island/Treasure Island, Calif to Yokosuka Japan
"The Domain of the Golden Dragon is an unofficial but highly coveted award of the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard. It is given to crew members of ships which cross the International Date Line (for the first time). You enter the dragon's empire when you cross the International Date Line by sailing west, where Asian nations celebrate the power of the dragon. With the extensive Navy operations in the Far East since (and before) World War II, this passage has become so common that few initiation ceremonies are actually held. But the certificate, decorated with Chinese-style dragon, is still given out."
There was definitely an initiation ceremony. (Kids were exempt) The one part I remember was they had to kiss the baby's belly; a very large Chief (in a diaper!) whose belly was covered in mustard, and other fun stuff with King Neptune's court.
We hit the tail end of a typhoon and our mom spent most of the time in the cabin (seasick).
Me and my brother thought it was awesome.
Just got this card from
eBay (For the memories)
https://www.navsource.org/archives/...2/22121a.htmNot my card, but it could have been.
Went over with Dad, Mom, brother & sister.
(Here is my card)
Posted 09/20/2022 02:18 am
