Operating With The U.S. Sixth Fleet
During the first half of 1969, Belmont stayed in or, infrequently, operated near Norfolk. A restricted availability followed by sea trials occupied the first three months of the year. Early in April, she began installation of additional equipment. May brought tests and type training in the Virginia Capes operating area. In June, she began preparations for overseas movement. On 17 June, Belmont left her berth at the Norfolk Naval Station bound for her first and only tour of duty with the U.S. 6th Fleet in the Mediterranean. She passed through the Strait of Gibraltar on the 28th and joined the 6th Fleet. Over the next four months, the technical research ship ranged the length and breadth of the "middle sea" conducting a series of special operations and making stops at ports all along the Mediterranean littoral. However, she spent the majority of her time in the eastern portion of the sea near Kythira, Greece, and the island of Crete. Belmont concluded the last deployment of her career at Rota, Spain, on 21 October and shaped a course back to the United States that same day.
Read more about this topic: USS Belmont (AGTR-4)
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