USS WELLES DD 628

The above picture is one of four that was taken from the Cruiser Boise, while on a training exercise. I was a F1/c in the forward engine room. I operated the throttle that controlled the turbine. I also was a first loader on the quad 40 mm gun emplacement. I was only on the Welles a short time. I came aboard when the ship returned to Seattle, and I was transferred to another ship as the Welles was being decommissioned. One thing of note that I remember is steaming into New York past the statue of liberty. We escorted the Boise, along with three other destroyers. We came there on Navy Day, and we received a tremendous welcome from private ships loaded with cheering people.

We also received a gun salute from several naval ships anchored along the way. The unions in New York threw a big party for us. It was impossible to pay for a drink at any bar in town. While we were there, several of the crew attended the last night of the famous Stage Door Canteen near Times Square.

Take care,

Lyle Wolcott