NARRATIVE OF EVENTS FOR 1974
Almost the entire period of STERETT’s history in 1974 was devoted to one evolution. From 1 February to 19 December, STERETT completed a ten-month Regular Overhaul period at Naval Shipyard, Long Beach, California. Although final figures are still not yet complied, approximately one quarter million man-hours (both shipyard and ship’s force) were devoted to the overhaul.
Among the many work items completed during the overhaul, and most likely most significant to future missions, was the reconfiguration of STERETT for enhanced command and control facilities as a task force flagship. This modification included the addition of new flag/staff operating spaces in the after superstructure (03 level between the after mack and Mk 68 director) – Expanded communication facilities and reorganized berthing arrangements were made to better accommodate the embarked flag officer.
The crew’s berthing spaces also received an extensive "habitability" modernization, with flameproof paneling, head modernization, new lockers and bunks, and refurnished living areas among the many items done. During the overhaul, STERETT’s crew had to move ashore to barracks, due to the total reworking of the berthing spaces. The galley and mess deck spaces also received a complete modernization including new booths, tables and chairs; two new lounge areas; new ovens, and a complete new serving line including soft drink, ice, milk and tea dispensers.
To enhance her combat capabilities, STERETT received a third computer for the Naval Tactical Data System complex. (NOTE: this is in error - the 3rd computer was actually added in 1970, not 1974.) A new NTDS program to match the enlarged computer facilities was also included. The new fast reaction, multi-threat capable program is designed to enable STERETT to fight several air, surface or sub-surface targets simultaneously. STERETT also received digital and continuous wave acquisition and track modification to the Terrier Missile System.
The Engineering department received a major portion of overhaul attention. Almost all major engineering equipment and nearly every valve was scheduled for cyclical overhaul and maintenance. Engineering work alone in man-hours involved equaled all the other departments combined.
During the overhaul, CAPT Phillip K. COLLINS relieved CAPT Herbert E. REICHERT in a change of command ceremony while STERETT was still in dry-dock.