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FROM CAPTAIN HALVORSON

In Previous editions of "The Plainsman" I have usually use this page to review what have we accomplished, why we are here now, and what is our next job? In this final edition I would like to stick with the same theme, but in a more philosophical context.

Our ship, TOPEKA, will soon be decommissioned for a second time. In these times of tight budgets, personal shortages and busy operating schedules, to most people this event may have only a passing interest.  But for those who have served in her decommissioning is more than merely laying up an inanimate ship -- for them it marks and end of an era.

Since being commissioned as a guided missile cruiser in March 1960 TOPEKA has steamed close to a million miles. She has served in both the Pacific and Atlantic fleets  She has made four WestPac and two Mediterranean deployments  She has met the enemy in Vietnam and has always stood ready to serve out country when needed.  Throughout her career she has always set an example of high reliability and excellence in performance.

This record of accomplishment of course is a testimony to our professionalism of hundreds of officers and thousands of sailors who have manned the TOPEKA over the years.  Working together is an ever changing, but unbroken team these men have. kept the ship a superb fighting unit, traveling with her throughout the world discharging her commitments, and sharing her experiences both good and bad.  This quality of team -- spirit and pride-in-the-unit belongs to the individuals who man the ship, but it focuses on the ship itself.  It is "esprit de corps".

Now. that the ship is to be deactivated the focal point of our esprit de corps is being taken away.  But remember, it is only the inanimate ship that is being deactivated - not you who have manned her.  You are all moving on to new and more. challenging assignments most of the on other ships in the fleet.  As you move on you can look back with pride on your accomplishments in TOPEKA and with fond memories of the experiences you shares with your shipments in her.  You must also do the same professional job on your next ship.  With this positive approach you will soon find your place on the new team and again share that team spirit and pride in your ship that makes the Navy the best in the world.

Finally, I wish to thank each and everyone of you for your superb support to me and for the pleasure of your personal friendship.  It has been a great privilege to be your Captain.

Captain George G. Hatvorson, USN
Commanding Officer

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