USS Helena CA-75
1949 CRUISE BOOK
Pages 126 - 131
Page 126
In Otaru the HELENA moored to a pier. A serious problem was presented when it was discovered that no brow was available. The problem was solved by an ingenious method of rigging the ship's starboard gangway. However, the solution was not accomplished prior to the General's- official call. He came aboard via a Jacob's Ladder, aided by the boatswain's trusty pipe and six sideboys proving to all skeptical hands that sideboys serve some practical purpose.
Otaru appeared in most respects very similiar to Hakodate. It 'had the same "deserted by Winter but not yet ready for Spring" look about it. Streets were muddy and filled with a season's collection of rubble. In corners not exposed to the sun, snow still lay as it had drifted, partially covered with dirt.
The dwellings of stone and clay (a more permanent type of structure than the bamboo and straw huts found on the southern islands) were covered with dirt and soot giving the whole town a dingy appearance.
No recreational facilities were available but several establishments dispensing Japanese beer were "on limits" to allied personnel.
Sapporo, the capitol of Hokkaido, is but two hours by train from Otaru.Special trains to Sapporo were run for the convenience of personnel of the HELENA and the two destroyers. There, the Army opened its facilities to the visiting personnel.
Again underway on the morning of the sixteenth of April the three ships of Task Group 96.5 proceeded northward, passing several snow-covered mountains that rose abruptly from the sea. At 45 degrees N direction was reversed and the return trip had begun. Moderately rough seas were encountered in Tsuguru Strait. The doctor's new pills kept most of the "visiting firemen" on their feet but several fell victim to the seas unfriendly motion. The seige quickly passed and the remainder of the cruise was uneventful.
Yokosuka was reached shortly afternoon on the twentieth. Transportation arranged in advance was awaiting the Army and Air Force personnel who were anxious to reach their posts with their newly acquired collection of sea stories.
The main street of Sapporo. The EM Club is at the extreme right foreground.
Page 127
Page 128
Page 129
Page 130
Page 131
Back pages inside left and inside right
