ROCHESTER arrived at Manila in the Philippine Islands on 31 January. She had been at nearby Sangley Point during 1950 when the onset of hostilities in Korea precipitated a premature departure. Now, on her return to these Islands almost four years later, it seemed the street vendors were still hawking the same ware.

The sailor in upper left would have accepted the ride, but in downtown Manila he had no idea where to go; meanwhile, the trio in upper right are unauthorized guests at the Manila Hotel pool. ROCHESTER steamed out of Manila Bay on 3 February and headed into the South China Sea.

ROCHESTER dipped below the equator south of Singapore on 6 February, and true to tradition was boarded by King Neptune and all his motley crew. The shellbacks on board joined the intruders in making it a long day for the ship's many polywogs.