My life aboard the Vega
by
Richard Conhiser, CS3 1961-64

I came aboard in 1961, was in 1st div first for about 6 mo, Seems like I only chipped paint. We went to dry dock. I was in a boat chipping paint on a ladder. The boatsman mate moved the boat away from the ship's side and in I went, into the water paint and all!  I knew then it was time to get another job!  Had a chance to get into the galley and went for it. I made 3rd class a short time later. I disliked the boatsman mates when I was in 1st division but after I became a cook they turned out to be my best friends.

We had some hellish liberties together. One friend, JD Seitzinger, took leave in Sasebo. He came back to the ship and got 5 of us and we got overnight passes. He rented a whole steam bathhouse. We had it all to ourselves with girls. What a time!  One of the best memories of liberty during my Vega tour.

There was some sad times also. A boatsman, who was a good friend, died on board trying to lower the Captain's gig.  Another guy keeled over of a heart attack while at muster. Then a steward friend committed suicide on board; put his head in a hatch and lowered it; carried out his head in plastic bag. I saw it.

Also, I was running a slush fund.  Man, I almost got into trouble over that!

We made 5 cruises to WESPAC.  I totally enjoyed the Vega. Navy life was great.

If you have any narratives of your life aboard the Vega or pictures to contribute please email them to:  Admin@USSVega.com