Crew's Mess circa 1970 - Photo courtesy of Dave Wolf
Crew's Mess circa 1970 - Photo courtesy of Dave Wolf
This space was located amidships just below the weather deck. All fore and aft passageways terminated on the mess decks. Adjoining the mess deck was the crew's galley and the scullery where trays and eating utensils were washed. The crew were served their food from a serving line onto divided trays. Located here also were large coffee pots that made coffee available 24 hours a day.
The crew's mess deck was the central congregation area for the enlisted men of the USS Sterett. This space was not large enough for everyone to eat at the same time so the crew ate in shifts. Those scheduled to go on watch were always fed first. the crew sat at tables anchored to the deck. Each table had swivel chairs, similar to what you might find in a fast food restaurant. In the evenings the crew was shown a movie here often accompanied by popcorn or ice-cream. Tests and training classes were held here as were Sunday divine services. A mess deck regular were the "bug juice" dispensers, a cool-aid like drink.
Adjacent to the mess deck was the ship's store where various and sundry items could be purchased. A soda machine was also installed here with proceeds usually going to the crew's "morale" fund.
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