Haha, enjoyable read Stinky.
Great use of "American devil", "Ashcan down my periscope" and got a laugh out of "man the ice cream maker"
I also cut my teeth on Silent Service on a 128D. Welcome to subsim. Once you get comfortable with the game, start digesting some of the tips and FAQ's in the MODS section. Although I suggest completing or enduring
a good campaign of stock first. You will find plenty of good stuff in there, that later you will no doubt like to try.