Although I used nearly three rolls of film, I believe these summarize the visit in San Diego.
If you tour the ship, the only differences will be the Docents [Guides] and the location. Each Docent was provided with a laminated plastic script. I am sure the Endeavour Foundation does not desire too much ad libing.
February 5, had been overcast until the Ship arrived. The photograph in the local newspaper looks like the sun may have peaked through, but not for long. Around 1:00 PM it became overcast again, and the wind was blowing. Also, on arrival a special proclamation from the Mayor was presented.
I understood from conversations with the Docents, there were many volunteers and each was asked to stand one 4 or 6 hour watch during the entire visit. Have no way of knowing if this was standard procedure for all visits or just San Diego. I should have signed up, if for no other reason than to get one of the uniforms. The hats looked great. As you can see, the Docents were in he retired age bracket and all are members of the Maritime Museum.
The day of my visit was an absolutely clear day; but, the wind was blowing. Literately crawling below deck was not as easy for older people as I first believed. The fatigue is evident in my face, and the the wind did not improve my hair.
On Wednesday, February 17, the San Diego Maritime Museum announced a presentation of Endeavour by Mr. Longley. We went: timing was terrible for us. We had not had dinner and there was no food available. The Australians did contribute white and red wine. After a glass or two, we decided we needed to eat. We left and did not return. The next day I determined Mr. Longley did not make the presentation. His number one assistant, I believe the Captain did the honors. There were no handouts.
The Endeavour was refitting alongside the embarcadero.
Frank Kretchman