THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
WASHINGTON

7 July 1972

Lieutenant Commander John W. Kinnier, USN
PCO, BREWTON (DE-1086)
Long Beach Naval Shipyard
Long Beach, California 90802

Dear Captain,

Congratulations on your new command, and best wishes to you and to your crew on the commissioning of BREWTON (DE-1086).

You have been entrusted with the command of one of the finest ships of our new Navy. Upon her, as a unit of our Sea Control Forces, rests the serious responsibility of ensuring that our sea lines of communication to our allies are kept open. I know that you and every man who sails with you will now meet the exacting challenge to weld ship and crew into a working fighting team.

In designing new ships such as BREWTON we have endeavored to continue to improve living conditions for the fine men who sail them. I know that you share this interest. Although improvements have been made over earlier designs, there is always a need for new ideas in this important area. I hope that you and your crew will continue to develop innovations in habitability improvements and forward your recommendations for consideration. I would like to receive an advance copy of such submissions. Our men constitute our most vital asset. As we seek their finest performance, their individual and collective welfare deserves our most active interest.

Our times post a heavy challenge to you and to every man of BREWTON's company. I know that you will meet it successfully.

Sincerely yours,

John W. Warner