The next step is to dry-mount the pictures and
captions so when the booklet is assembled, the caption
will appear facing the appropriate photograph. If the job
has been done correctly, each page is trimmed
individually. This is done with the photo side up, since
its dimensions are more critical than those of the caption.
The first cut is made on the right side, making sure it is
exactly parallel to the left margin. Then trim the top and
bottom, and the pages are now ready for binding.
Covers for the book can be made of commercial
display board that can then be covered with felt paper if
desired. Your covers should be cut larger than the inside
pages of the book to protect the pages.
The booklet is then bound with commercial
punching and plastic binding equipment available at
many commands. The finished book is mailed to the
guest a week or two after he leaves the command. The
CO-or perhaps a flag officer–signs the forwarding letter
which tells him it has been a pleasure having him aboard
and expresses the Navy’s hope for his continued interest
in naval affairs.
Souvenirs
There is virtually no limit to the types of souvenirs
that can be used in special events, many at little or even
no real cost. Some commands add the cost of such
mementos to the guests’ mess and entertainment bills,
with the knowledge of the guests, who usually are
pleased to know that neither the taxpayers nor the ship’s
crew are digging into their pockets for these costs.
A common souvenir is a ship or station photograph
inscribed by the CO. Other popular items include
baseball caps with the command’s name or emblem
embroidered paperweights or desk ornaments made
from scrap materials, such as flight deck planking or
aircraft metal.
Many commands make up wallet-size cards
identifying the guest as an honorary submariner,
plankowner or a veteran of a particular operation (see
fig. 5-3). One command awards a “lavender heart”
medal to any guest who suffers an injury, such as a
bruised forehead or shin suffered in passing through a
hatchway.
Figure 5-3.—Wallet-sized souvenir cards.
5-25
