Another Sea Snake.

Leo Doc Carter

Going through the South China Sea on our way to Singapore '57, on the surface, the OOD called the Captain (Watson) to the bridge to look at a really weird scene. Naturally, everyone who could get to the bridge, me included went up also. As far as you could see the surface of the ocean was covered with sea snakes with some going to the 8 and 10 foot lengths. Lots of color as I remember but then I hate snakes and wanted to kill them all. A big discussion was held by the officers and CPO's about what to do in case some got in through the limber holes and would remain on the hull. A big decision was made that the entire hull would be seached as soon as we tied up and I would be standing by to treat anyone who got hit by these dangerous monsters. As I remember, a couple of dead, mangled, snakes were found just forward of the FTR hatch but no live ones. When we went ashore all hands were told to avoid the beaches because of the danger of the snakes. We had no trouble staying away from the beaches - the NAAFI club and other watering holes kept us occupied in addition to a British sub tied up alongside with an adequate supply of "grog." But thats another story.

Doc