When I was off-duty, I mingled with passengers in the modern, stylish First Class interiors. I never met anyone famous, but I knew when notables were onboard, like John Wayne. The entire ship was unionized, and it was tough to get in. I was considered unlicensed personnel in the Steward’s Department. The best part of working on board the SS United States was her speed – we would be cruising at 32+ knots, even in heavy seas. Just being at sea, that was what I enjoyed most.-- Ed Clayton, Third Baker (Voyages #323, #324 and #325, 1968)