Gerald R. Ford, Jr., and an unidentified shipmate celebrate shore leave
from their duties aboard the USS MONTEREY. 1944.

Lieutenant Commander Gerald R. Ford, Jr., watches a boxing match on the flight deck of the USS MONTEREY. Mr. Ford was the ship's athletic director. 1944.

Crew members take a break aboard the USS MONTEREY. 1944.

Gerald R. Ford, Jr., fights for the tip-off during a basketball game on the forward elevator of the USS MONTEREY. As physical education director it was Mr. Ford's idea to create a basketball court on the elevator. 1944.

Gerald R. Ford, Jr., guards the net during a basketball game on the forward elevator of the USS MONTEREY. As physical education director it was Mr. Ford's idea to create a basketball court on the elevator. 1944.

Gerald R. Ford, Jr., and members of the crew of the USS MONTEREY watch the festivities as the ship crosses the equator and other crew members pay homage to King Neptune. 1944.

Gerald R. Ford, Jr., and fellow officer Truman Walling enjoy a little relaxation at a shore leave party for officers of the USS MONTEREY. 1944.

Gerald R. Ford, Jr., and Truman Walling on the flight deck of the USS MONTEREY. April 12, 1944.

Off Duty in crew's quarters.

Airmen passing time in ready room.

Crewmen loaded down with sandwiches on board USS Monterey (CVL-26); D-day on Saipan.

Lt. Ronald P. "Rip" Gift (center) and other pilots in ready room of USS Monterey CVL-26.

Gunnery Officers on board the USS MONTEREY, October 24, 1943. Gerald R. Ford is the second person from the right in the front row.