Memories of SS United States Conquering 135-Foot Waves in the North Atlantic
When Conservancy supporters and Flagship enthusiasts recently crossed the gangway and stepped in to "Times Square" for a special supporters tour, it was like stepping back in time for one member of the tour group.
Former crew member Thomas McGuire aboard the SS United States during a recent supporters tour. (Image courtesy of James McGuire)
As a cadet at Fort Schuyler, Thomas McGuire saw the Big Ship in pictures and artwork around the halls of the Maritime Academy. But his first encounter came as a member of the Maritime College Band, when the band performed at the final docking of Commodore John Anderson's career. After Anderson had docked the ship, without the assistance of tugs, McGuire and his bandmates had the opportunity to attend the Commodore's congratulatory luncheon.
After graduating from SUNY Maritime College and becoming a licensed engineer, McGuire worked aboard several other ships before landing one of the coveted assignments as a Watch Stander in the aft engine room for the Big U's voyage in April 1967, and another voyage in September of the same year. In October 1967, McGuire served as a Licensed Junior Day Maintenance Engineer.
This Position Report, dated January 14, 1968, details the winds at Force 10 on the Beaufort Scale, as described by McGuire. Force 10 conditions have an estimated wind speed of 48-55 knots (55-63 mph), with very high waves with long overhanging crests. The resulting foam, in great patches, is blown in dense white streaks along the direction of the wind. On the whole the surface of the sea takes on a white appearance.
Voyage 359 - in January 1968 - would include his most memorable crossing. While crossing the Atlantic, the ship encountered a strong storm and heavy waves that McGuire estimates were as much as 135-feet high. In fact, the waves were so high that at one point, McGuire recalled, water from a rogue wave splashed through the top of the forward funnel and down inside the engine room. McGuire shared with the Conservancy that he can still recall the sound of dishes crashing to the ground from the racks down the hall from his room. McGuire also noted that the winds - upwards of 80 knots - and waves were so strong you could see the ship twisting when you look down the long passageways.
His return to the ship, now more than fifty years later, was bittersweet for McGuire. The trip was a Christmas present from his four children, and he was joined during the tour by his son, James, who also works in the maritime industry as a Port Captain with The Bridgeport and Port Jefferson Steamboat Company.
Reflecting on the day, McGuire told the Conservancy, "It's sad to see her general condition but coming aboard brought back so many memories. It was very exciting. A great day."