It's always nice to avoid an international incident. We were invited to get up at 0600 and go to the bridge to watch a test firing of one of the ship's defensive weapons, the Sea Whiz (don't quote me on the spelling). However, the firing gets cancelled because there are other vessels in the area, so better to err on the side of caution. Nevertheless, this does let those of us who got up early to get breakfast before it's over at 0715. No fooling around on this ship.

At 0830 they come and get our bags, and then we head up toward the deck. This time will be going back on UH-60s. Up near the deck, many of the officers, including the Captain and the XO, are there to see us off, which is really awesome. The Captain also presents us each with personalized signed photos of the ship. Then, helmest and flotation vests on, and we're taken out to the copters for a killer ride - the side door is open, and all you see below is water. An mpeg video will be posted early next week.

We land in Bahrain, clear customs, and after checking into the hotel, head over to NAS Bahrain to play our last show at the Desert Dome. Because a house band is set up, we're able to use a lot of their equipment.

At night, the last show of the tour, although that afternoon we were asked if we might stay a few days longer because another ship had heard about us from the Bonhomme Richard. Talk about flattering. But it can't happen because of the time it would take to get clearance from Bahrain.

The show actually rocks - not a lot of people, but those there are totally into it, and drinks are bought for the band onstage. After the show, a final packup and back to the hotel for dinner and a little more sheesha. Everyone's feeling the pull of home, and it's almost time....TM