AN AMAZING PERIOD – (1961 – 2021)

By: Mr. Emil Gaspari

June 1960 – Meeting white Mercedes at Ljubljana skyscraper “Neboticnik” , helping with
directions which in turn resulted in the journey of dreams.
June 1960 to May 1961 worked hard for securing the funds for a round trip ocean fare ticket
from Jugoslavia (Rijeka) to New York – USA.
Embarked on m/s BOHINJ on May 29 th 1961 at Rijeka Port (Yugoslavia) with 27.00 U.S.
Dollars for a three week visit to America visiting the people (Mr. & Mrs. Hans Herma whom I
met in Ljubljana in May 1960). We sailed from Rijeka to Trieste to load cargo and from there to
Koper for additional cargo. From Koper we sailed straight through the Adriatic Sea through
Messina Channel, passing the Gibraltar into the Atlantic Ocean heading towards America (the
land of dreams, milk and honey).
After 19 day journey across the Atlantic, experiencing an engine failure as well a hurricane three
days before reaching U. S. Coast. We finally arrived to Brooklyn Pier on June 17, 1961.
Mr. & Mrs. Herma picked me up at the pier and took me to their home in Mohegan Lake, NY
(approx. 50 miles North of New York City). My three weeks visit has commenced and the rest is
a history.
The moto still works “The biggest risk is not to take the risk!!” and “Never, never give up”.
Where there is a will there is a way! A drive, passion and work makes everything possible!
This is a story of dreams, risk, drive and hard work that is now being greatly appreciated with
the achievements along the way!
I am happy to report that today June 17 th 2021 is the 60 th Anniversary of my arrival to the U.S.
and certainly looking forward to my next decade. Enjoy the read!

Photos:

m/s BOHINJ
White Mercedes SL-220
Crew of m/s Bohinj