An artifact from WESTPAC 1982–83

Christmas at Diego Garcia

Original photographs and keepsakes from Richard F. Wahl’s deployment aboard USS Samuel Gompers (AD-37), December 1982.

A Christmas Far From Home

During his first WESTPAC deployment, Richard and the crew of USS Samuel Gompers spent Christmas at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. These personal photographs and the ship’s Christmas menu preserve a small glimpse of that experience.

Welcome to BIOT Diego Garcia sign among palm trees — The welcome sign at Diego Garcia during the 1982–83 WESTPAC deployment.

Rocky tropical shoreline and leaning palm tree at Diego Garcia — The shoreline of Diego Garcia, photographed during deployment.

Building at Diego Garcia decorated with an oversized Santa Claus for Christmas — Christmas decorations at Diego Garcia during the 1982 holiday season.

USS Samuel Gompers AD-37 Diego Garcia Christmas menu cover dated December 25, 1982 — Cover of the USS Samuel Gompers Christmas menu, Diego Garcia, December 25, 1982.

Open USS Samuel Gompers Christmas Day menu listing the crew and meal served December 25, 1982 — The original Christmas Day menu, including the ship’s leadership, mess-management crew and holiday meal.

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