My first entry in to the Philippines was in the late 1970's; due to the fact I was an East Coast Sailor prior to that. Then I received orders to "Diego Garcia BIOT" assigned to the Ship's Store and Special Services. As a rookie Senior Chief I was under the wing of an older crustier Master Chief Ship's Serviceman whom we will just refer to as Sam. They informed us that during the 12-month tour, that only one R and R trip would be granted to Singapore for six (count them) days per tour. My hero Sam explained that rule was applicable to other people, and not us. With wonder in my eyes I asked, "How's that?" Simple, I found out 80% of our stock for the Ship's Store and the most important the "Package Store" was shipped to us from Subic Bay. Due to a good working relationship with the Air Force Cargo Master in Clark, responsible for loading the C-5A's, once a month he would hold back our stock. That would cause the Supply Officer to go berserk, and send the young SHCS to Clark to solve the problem. A few cocktails at the Staff NCO Club, and the flow would begin. 3-5 days later, well rested with an improved outlook on life I would return to the Island from a job well done.

One Friday afternoon sitting at the SUNDOWNER'S Lounge at the Chief's barracks with SHCM Sam, we were consuming cocktails made with Gin to combat the heat of the day. When in the door rushes our friend "CT" Dave, yelling, "Get packed we're on the way to Clark with the Air Force and we won't be listed on the manifest." It was to become known on the base as a "Black Op's" trip. Late Sunday night we returned to our home in the Indian Ocean none the worst for wear with large smiles on our faces.

Monday morning the XO called the three of us into his office to inquire as to our where we spent the weekend? "Fishing at the Plantation " was our response. Sticking to the sailor's creed, Scam, don't plan. Deceit before disaster! It's our story, and we're sticking with it. We were smart enough to not try it a second time. Sam transferred, and two months later so did Dave and I. At our Hail and Farewell the XO came to us both and asked if we really made the now infamous trip to the P.I. We just smiled and said our good byes!