VOLUME VII Number 11
ADAK SUM
12 MARCH 1962
CARGO-ICEBREAKER WILL MAKE REGULAR ADAK RUN—-The outline of the ship above is an
attempt by your editor at reproducing a picture of the new cargo-icebreaker, USNS
MI^AR which will be making a run to Adak from Seattle via Anchorage approximately
every 21 days. After unloading the ship will be loaded with outgoing cargo here
and return to Seattle, load there and go to Anchorage and back to Adak. , ' - . ;
The most noticeable feature of the MIZAR is the ice-pilot station- perched atop
(Pthe mastlike support forward. The MIZAR is designed from the keel up as a cargo
icebreaker. The ice-pilot station is enclosed by electrically heated, tinted glass
and affords an unobstructed vantage point for navigation in icefilled waters.
Duplicate engine and steering facilities, as well as radar and gyro aids in this
station permit direct control of the ship by the ice-pilot.
The MIZAR also boasts a hydraulically operated hatch covers system with special
fittings to speed up hatch opening and closing time; an enclosed anchor windlass
with special lubricants to facilitate operation in subzero temperatures; insulated
below-deck passageways providing a fast weatherproof route between watchstander*s
. stations; and soft fluorescent lighting below decks to contrast with ice - caused
glare topside.
because or her special construction, the mizak will be able to give year round
unassisted service to Anchorage and Adak. She will sail every third week on a
triangle run from Seattle to Anchorage to Adak and back to Seattle, and can carry
100 measurement tons of dry and refrigerated cargo*
The MIZAR has operated out of Brooklyn, New York, for the past three years.
Captain Roger Swett, Master of the USNS HARRIS COUNTY during Alaskan’operations
from May 1959 until the ship*s departure for Honolulu, will be the new Master of
the MIZAR and most of the HARRIS C0UNTY*s crew will return to Seattle to serve
aboard the MIZAR.
Above article taken from NSD SEATTLE*s'*SEA VIEWS"