During our last deployment we participated in several excercies and were an integral part of one of the largest ever TEAM SPIRIT EXERCISES ever conducted.  There were 55 ships that were part of the exercise and Kawishiwi refueled almost every one during a 2 month period.   During that same deployment we earned the coveted Battle Efficiency Award for the best oiler out of Midpac, see the: meatball pennant.  We beat out the oilers Hassayampa, Ponchotula,  and Ashtabula.  Also we were runner up for the Golden Anchor Awardwhich was awarded to the ship that had the highest re-enlistment rate.  We receieved the Silver Anchor Award.  Additionally, we were called upon to rescue several folks whose tanker had gone down.  This terrible accident happened off the coast of the Philippines and Kawishiwi responded.  We then brought the survivors to Subic Bay. 

After returning to Pearl Harbor in July of 1979, we were informed that Kawishiwi along with most other oilers from Hawaii would be turned over to the Military Sea Lift Command.  This was really disheartning for the crew, but being the Kawishiwi, we responded in great Naval tradition.  The ship was inspected by Insurv and was found to be in top notch condition.  I was the Leading Petty Officer of R-division and was responsible for all the maintenance and condition of all installed and portable fire fighting equipment.  My guys and I had a flawless record of Maintenance and we maintained that record up and through the turn over to MSC. 

Looking back over the rest of my years in the Navy I can truly attest to the fact that Kawishiwi was my stepping stone for my advancement to Chief  Petty Officer and finally to Chief Warrant Officer.  I spent 26 great years in the Navy and Kawishiwi was some of my most memorable.  I have a decommisioning plaque that was given to me by my Division Officer, the Damage Control Assistant, LT. Pete Sisa.  When I make it to one of the ships reunions I will definetly bring the plaque with me.