The Ike!! I bet an awesome experience. Where did you go?
Boo
I reported aboard before she was commissioned (makes me a plank owner). First few cruises was just up and down the coast. Spent a week at St Thomas in the Virgin Islands. Once she was commissioned we went to Cuba for trials. Got to spend a few days in Guantanamo. Did a Mediterranean cruise with stops in Israel, Italy, and Greece. 2nd Med cruise was canceled and we wen to IRAN when the hostages were there sailing down around Africa (making me a "Shellback" by crossing the equator). My tour was running down so they flew me to Guam, Hawaii the California. Made the trip all the way around the world.

Lots of good times and I learned a lot. Wouldn't talk anyone out of a stint in the Navy, Well worth the time.