This past weekend, October 4 through 7, the USS Torsk (SS-423) came alive. We had a crew of 47 volunteers who worked a number of projects aboard. Visitors were impressed by all the work that was being accomplished.
For starters, a number of Marine gel batteries were brought topside using an electric winch. The batteries had been donated and used as the source for emergency lights.
The deck of Torsk, which is being completely replaced to its 1960s configuration, was worked on and some of the metal work and coating was completed. Our bridge hatch, which broke free of its mounting studs was lifted and moved to a portion of the bridge where some much needed preservation work could be accomplished. The broken studs were removed from the hatch itself along with some other parts that needed refurbishment.
Some much needed work was completed on the sound powered phone system. We have begun to rely more and more on this system for communications throughout the boat and topside. It is now approximately 98% restored and some stations have been added topside so that we can coordinate maintenance and movement of external components such as the radio antennas, bow planes, running and anchor lights and others.
Many small repairs throughput the boat were also completed.
All in al, I would say all 47 people worked their rear-ends off and had some great social time in the evenings. Dinners Friday evening and Saturday evening were fantastic. Thanks to all of our local and our remote crew members for all their hard work and awesome achievements!
