Larry Higgins was a member of the Commissioning Crew and sent me these documents and history.

I joined the Navy in Dec 1952. Served on the USS Calvert (APA 32), USS ST. Joseph's River (LSMR 527) and the USS Leader (MSO 490). In July 1955 I was part of the decommissioning crew for the LSMR 527; by Aug 1955 I was on my way to the USS Leader which was in Tacoma, WA. The Leader was Commissioned in Nov. 1955. I was transferred for discharge in Long Beach, CA at the time the Leader departed for Japan, My discharge was in Dec. 1956. My rating was IC2 at the time of discharge. I truly enjoyed my time in the Navy and particularly enjoyed my time on the Leader. Not often one gets to serve on a brand new fighting ship. Must say though, I worked my buns off during the sea trials.

Larry's Plank Owner's Certificate

To all Sailors wherever ye may be: and to all salts, sea lawyers, swabs, land lubbers, square-knot admirals, gun deckers, and all the other assorted scavengers of the seven seas. Greetings: and be it known: By all ye earthly mortals and others who may be distinguished and honored by his presence, That Larry D. Higgins was an honored member of the first and most illustrious Navy crew which distinguished itself forever when it commissioned the good ship USS Leader MSO - 490 and, therefore, for this good and sufficient reason, he is entitled by the laws of the sea, to all the rights and privileges of a Plank Owner. Be it further understood: That he is entitled also to a clear, free, open and unencumbered title to a single plank in the deck of the aforementioned illustrious ship. This final, accurate selection will be made in order of seniority, according to the treasured, honorable records contained in Davey Jones' Log Book. Disobey these orders under extreme penalty of my displeasure. Harvey E. Toponce Lieutenant Commander, USN Commanding 16 November 1955