Shore Duty

When he left the USS Batfish SS 310, he was transferred to Shore Duty at the US Naval Training Center in St. Petersburg, Florida. He was stationed there for two years. 

Old Two Lane Skyway Bridge

During his time there he drove a Navy vehicle across Tampa Bay in the opening day parade of the old two lane Sunshine Skyway Bridge on Labor Day, September 6, 1954. (click on the above name Sunshine Skyway Bridge to view a slide show) 

It was a really big deal in those days, the joining of Pinellas and Manatee Counties with a bridge across Tampa Bay.

The  new bridge replaced the ferry from Point Pinellas to Piney Point, this was a tremendous improvement for commuters. Later two new bridges were built with four lanes, and portions of the old bridge were taken out . The remaining portion of the Old Bridge is now used as Skyway Fishing Pier State Park.

The Park has a north and south pier, with easy access, lighted, has bait shops, fishing tackle and supplies also food and drinks available and it is open 24/7  year round. There is a fee to use the Park, and you would need to call the Park to find out the amount that is charged.

USS Atule SS 403

This was a fun thing for him; to be among one of the very first people to drive across this bridge!

USS Atule Insignia Patch

When his tour of shore duty was complete he received orders to report aboard the USS Atule SS 403, based in Key West, Florida.
He served aboard her from December 20, 1954 till February 10, 1956.