Hi, my dad, Victor Olson, served as an oceanorgapher with NAVOCEANO on board the BOWDITCH, MICHELSON, DUTTON and the USNY WYMAN most of my life from 1964- 1979. I am currently trying to figure out what cruises and what ships he was on every year based on the information in this website. My dad died suddenly in Feb 1980. The photos and stories on this website have been so helpful to me and give me a great appreciation for not only the work done but the life aboard a ship. I am so thankful for all the information. I especially like the photos of the activities that were done on the ship...horseshoes and target shooting. I am sure my dad participated, but can't prove it. If anyone remembers my dad I would love to hear from you.

Midnight madness on the volleyball court! The flea market in Rio - think it was called the 'hippie' market? Copacabana! Lord Jim's Pub! Hang-gliding!
A week or 2 in Curacao, I think.
A unique tour!

Currently aboard the T-AGS 62 USNS Bowditch. The brass plate that was on the AGS-21 is now mounted next to our galley. Just found this site and it's a wonderful view into how life at sea was 'back-in-the-day'.

A tip of my hat and a great and heartfelt thanks for letting us stand on your shoulders.

ET Peter Brockert

I spent time on the Bowditch and Michelson while at the New York Shipyard, then was part of the Dutton crew until I was discharged in 1965.

Came aboard in Lisbon Portugal best year of my life in the US Navy saw the world and enjoyed every minute of it. Left at Las Palmas, Gran Canaries. I remember when crew stole the Russian Flag off the ship moored in front of us. Had visit from embassy searching the ship for the flag but they never found it.

Joined Mighty Bowditch at the NIT commercial pier in Norfolk. 1979-1980. CHENG was Lewindowski (sp?), 28 days uw then a week in Ft. Lauderdale. Not so bad a sked...

Came on to the Michelson as an STG3 and made STG2 right before I left for the Bowditch.

came aboard ET3, left as ET2

Just a year of marriage under my belt when I reported aboard and a newborn in my "crew" to boot, so this was a real test. Many thanks to my shipmates who helped me through and especially to LCDR Bruce, who was OINC while I was aboard. Different types of electronics equipments than I previously maintained, but it all helped in my long run to Master Chief Electronics Technician. A real springboard to my becoming affiliated with the Naval Air Traffic Control branch which caused me to "languish" as a shore duty sailor for the last seventeen years of my naval career.

I will always remember the great times and great ports that we visited while onboard the Bowditch. It was sad to see her go away and be scraped. We had some great times from our numerous visits to Bermuda to our great yard period in Boston. Bowditch will always have a place in my heart since she was my first Navy ship.
Wish you all the best! Frank