MESSAGE FROM THE CAPTAIN

This message is addressed to all members of the Topeka family, a family comprising not only the men who will sail her, but their families and friends, the men who built her, the thousands who designed and built the equipment installed in her, the citizens of the city whose name she bears, and finally, all the citizens of our country who paid for her and to whom we who man her must be ultimately accountable for the discharge of our duties.

It is important, therefore, that within this family of ours we establish a clear understanding of our mutual responsibilities and obligations. I believe that we who are privileged to man the ship are aware of the duties and responsibilities that go with the privilege. We will need the understanding and support of all members of the Topeka family to help us discharge these duties. Sea power has never been more important than it is today, and the military capabilities exemplified in a ship like ours are all indispensable adjunct of our foreign policy.

Topeka's role in preserving the peace we all so earnestly desire--and in its defense if necessary--may carry us to many ports of the world. The members of our family who remain at home can help us by their understanding of the need for our missions and by their prayers for our success.

CAPT F. L. PINNEY, Jr., USN Commanding

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