Michael Perrett Oral History
Object NameRecording, Video
Transcript
Narrator
Michael Perrett
Association
USS Growler (SSG-577)
DateMay 7, 2018
PeriodCold War
MediumMTS, PDF
ClassificationsCommunication Artifacts
Credit LineCollection of the Intrepid Museum. Gift of Michael Perrett, ETN3 (SS). OHP.159
Object numberOHP.159
DescriptionMichael Perrett served on board the submarine USS Growler (SSG-577) as an electronics technician (communications) third class (ETN3) from August 1962 until June 1964. He has been interviewed for the Intrepid Museum's oral history collection on May 7, 2018.See transcript for complete interview. Below is a summary:
Michael Perrett began his interview summarizing his childhood in Canada and Seattle and his journey into the Navy. He attended electronics technician A school at Treasure Island, California, and submarine school in Groton, Connecticut. He described physical and psychological tests, as well as the unhappy fate of a chief who joined Growler without attending sub school.
Next, Perrett talked about his first impressions of Growler and working on a submarine. He recalled becoming qualified, standing radar and sonar watches and keeping equipment running. Perrett described tense moments on the boat, including being held down by a Soviet vessel. He also discussed daily life on the ship, including crew relationships, food, and the relaxed atmosphere. He recalled a time when one crew member accidentally stabbed another with a fork.
Perret then described some characteristics of Growler, including surfacing every night and getting “flash traffic” (surfacing the antenna for radio communication). He recalled Growler’s decommissioning and leaving the Navy after his “Kiddie Cruise.”
At the end of his interview, Perrett summarized his career after the Navy, including working for Boeing and as an engineer. He then returned to his work on the boat, including guiding the Regulus missile during tests and the difference between Growler, new “Blue and Gold” nuclear crews and swim call.
Extent: 5 video files, 24 page transcript
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