NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT

Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 25

NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT

COB.. Lay to the Goat Locker. We’re trying to trim the Boat for a launch!

NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOATMichael B. Lewis 1968 John C CalhounBrent Nash 1987 John C CalhounGregory Scott Poteet 1980 John C CalhounGeorge E. Shaw 1980 John C CalhounJerry Staeheli 1966 John C CalhounWilliam Lease 1968 John MarshallSteve Elledge 1967 KamehamehaWillis A.Gillis 1975 KamehamehaDonald Bussell 2000 KentuckyRobert B Belmont 1945 KrakenAlbert Schaub 1944 L-4Larry D.Lentz 1986 La JollaWilson T. Clark 1969 LafayetteThomas Eddleman 1984 LafayetteLaurence Torreyson 1973 LaponChad Sechrist 2002 LouisianaMark A. Voitlein 2000 LouisianaPatrick Bryson 1992 MarylandCharles E.Eberhardt 1956 MedregalPaul, James Bushong 1984 MemphisWilliam C. Holmes 1967 MenhadenRonald J St Peter Jr. 1988 Minneapolis-St PaulCharles Caruthers 2002 MontpelierBrian R. Golembieski 1997 MontpelierDennis Fraher 1969 NarwhalJames David Hall 1989 NarwhalDouglas D Gilman 1977 Nathan HaleDouglas E. Heckel 1982 Nathan HaleJoseph Ruckman 1976 Nathan HaleDavid H. Vine 1968 Nathanael GreeneDonald S. Cale 1985 NevadaDan Curran 1979 PargoRussell Mayforth 1970 PargoMichael Micheli 2005 PasadenaThomas J. Rumsey 1964 Patrick HenryTodd Trahan 1995 PennsylvaniaB Pietruszkiewicz 1987 PhiladelphiaGary D. Vuylsteke 1977 PhiladelphiaJames Wade 1966 PickerelMark Roediger 1990 PittsburghAaron Roth 2008 PittsburghTim Norling 1988 PlungerDavid Pipes 1974 PogyRonald E. Oas 1943 PollackThomas Shipman 1960 PomfretJames Ambrosia 1991 ProvidenceEric Murphy 1993 ProvidenceRobert F. Palmer 1970 PufferMurrell Wilson 1956 Queenfi shJohn J. Kelly 1969 QuillbackThomas R Taylor 1969 QuillbackArthur W. Parry, Jr. 1969 RatonKevin Harlan 1973 RayDonnie R. Bolling 1956\ Redfi n

Robert E. Boyd 1955 Redfi nRonnie Lowe 1968 RequinJames McGarrah 2001 Rhode IslandGeorge E. Archer 1969 Robert E LeeD. Joe White 1967 Robert E LeeMelville Outram 1961 RockWilliam W. Brewer 1961 RonquilThomas Scott 1962 RonquilBennie Cashman 1963 RunnerRichard D. Hernandez 1945 RunnerWilliam G. Longworth 1944 S-16John D. Hill, Jr. 1943 S-38Thomas Wilhelm 1968 SabaloGerald Montageau 1963 Sailfi shDan G. Shields 1959 Sailfi shDennis Skramstad 1968 SalmonKirby J. Schuler 1986 Sam HoustonDavid Dixor 1981 San FranciscoCharles Raynorrepko 2001 San JuanChristopher E Kuhls 1963 SardaDennis Roy Fisher 1960 SargoArthur S Thompson 1961 SargoRobert Whitehouse 1951 Scabbardfi shTimothy Dwyer 1980 ScampJohn J. Hoffman 1969 ScampAshberry West 1967 ScampPaul Colardeau 2005 ScrantonChristopher Marchand 1986 Sea DevilLewis Thomas Crosse 1948 Sea FoxEdward Pleming 1946 Sea FoxLawrence R. Butler 1965 Sea LeopardCharles R. Dansreau 1968 Sea OwlGerald L. Dilorenzo 1957 Sea OwlBruce W. Melton 1969 Sea OwlKenneth W. Nichols 1966 Sea OwlRick Smock 1968 Sea PoacherDonald R. Wilkinson 1956 Sea PoacherEdward D. Rabbitt 1962 Sea RobinDouglas D. Blaha 1964 SeadragonGregory S. Goings 1991 SeahorsePerry D. Deason 1969 SealionGregory W Smith 1965 SealionScott R. Van Buskirk 1982 SeawolfWathier A. Bergsten 1953 SegundoPaul A. Riggs 1958 SegundoJohn L. Zentz 1972 SharkPaul Jensen 1992 Simon BolivarFrances W. Peterson 1965 Simon BolivarWayne Skinner 1965 Simon BolivarBill Clark 1977 SkateSammie L. Johnson 1980 SkateBrian Tomasch 1975 SkateWilliam Nooney 1978\ SkipjackDaniel E. Burkett 1972 Snook

Welcome Aboard Shipmates!

Page 26 American Submariner

Raise your hand if you are old enough to remember the Escape Tank at Hunter’s Point.

NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT

Francis X. Beaudin III 1974 Spadefi shCharles Stauff 1956 Spikefi shMerrill L. Talbott 1960 Spikefi shChristopher Ezell 2007 Springfi eldJames Richards 2005 Springfi eldHobert Scharff 1957 SticklebackFernando Iglesias 1980 Stonewall JacksonOdell L. Olsen 1966 Stonewall JacksonWilliam L Henry 1973 SturgeonRichard Schram 1968 SturgeonRodger Pearce 1988 Sunfi shGerald Yates 1982 Sunfi shRobert N. Williams 1978 Swordfi shDoyle E. Huff 1944 TautogWilliam Anderson, C 1976 TecumsehJim Hamilton 1974 TecumsehCharles Petitt 1974 TecumsehLarry Vallee 1994\ TennesseeJohn A. Davis 1965 Theodore RooseveltLon Watson 1963 Theodore RooseveltToby J. Cozad 1979 Thomas A EdisonC. Thomas Eldridge 1968 Thomas A EdisonJohn A. Peterson 1974 Thomas A EdisonWilliam C. Weeks, II 1973 Thomas A EdisonDonald W. Cronkhite 1964 Thomas JeffersonDanny L. Leonhardt 1964 Thomas JeffersonTomDesaulniers 1963 ThornbackArlin Devlin Johnson 1944 Tilefi shMarvin Beaver 1978 TinosaTim Cich 1978 TinosaMark Scahill 1990 TinosaJacob Poston 1998 TopekaJohn Barnes 1959 ToroDuane R. Hartson 1958 ToroKeith J. Peterson 1961 ToroStan Breedlove 1971 TrepangTom Meyer 1992 TrepangHerbert E English 1942 TriggerThomas H. Callahan 1955 TroutTimothy P. Werley 1962 TroutDavid Hendrix 1966 Trumpetfi shHoward Onorato 1969 TullibeeRudy Plummer 1972 TullibeeKelly Walker 1969 TullibeeLance Forgey 1980 TunnyDavid M. Webb 1992 TunnyA.V. Faustino 1963 TuskGeorge C. Lewis 1955 TuskRosendo Briones 1981 Ulysses S GrantJohn Byrne 1981 Ulysses S GrantJoseph H. Fay 1971 Ulysses S GrantHarry Marsh 1971 Ulysses S GrantJacob W. Banner 2006 VirginiaBrent A. Meyer 2008 VirginiaSteven M. Shea 2009 VirginiaEugene R. Weiler 1970 Von SteubenDavid Houston 1998 West VirginiaRobert C. Rautzhan 1969 Whale

Robert A. Brown 1972 Will RogersMichael E. Lawrence 1978\ Will RogersBruce B Williams 1972 Will RogersWayne Carney 1970 Woodrow WilsonDavid P. Lewis 1982 Woodrow WilsonGeorge Kokolis 2002 WyomingCharles Babbitt AssociateStephen A. Edis AssociateDana T. Eng AssociateShelley Henriksen AssociateJoseph B. Houston AssociateAllen Iott AssociateJim Looby AssociateJohn H. Martin AssociateJames Perry AssociateRick Reeves AssociateKerry Ryan D AssociatePeter Joseph Tierney AssociateAndrew Torkelson AssociateJames R. Willard, Sr. AssociateGary Williams AssociateEdgar M.Zerr AssociateElaine Branch Associate

2009 OPPORTUNITY DRAWING

In the past two years more than $30,000 has been put into USSVI Base treasuries. $27,000 has been paid out to our members and $4,000 has been donated to the USSVI Chari-table Foundation. Sounds like it might be doing some good things. It will continue..

However, since we do not have a consensual legal position for the National campaign it will be all be done at the National Convention in San Diego.

Be sure to bring your Life Savings and invest in this HIGH RETURN (better than your local Casino or State Lottery) event. Plan to pick up a couple tickets for your best buddy who couldn’t make the trip and when he wins he’ll be at the next two conventions picking up your tickets.

Come to San Diego, have a good time, pick up the winning tickets. All rules and regs will be available when you get to the Golden State. See you there.

Actually, it could be in your best interests, or at least the best interests of your Base to check with your state and local authorities to see what laws may apply in your area. The more participation the higher the return. We can do this on a State by State basis. If you are interested in s Slam -Dunk fundraiser, here it is.Call me with any questions. 951-541-0900 or E-mail at [email protected]


Skimmers are OK, everybody should own one!

Central Region, District Two Convention, Birthday Ball

Several District Two bases contributed to the success of the weekend, these included the Hoosier, Chicago, Cincinnati and Great Lakes bases.

Our congratulations to the Crash Dive Base and Base Commander Clayton Hill, Tom Barnes CD2 Commander and Vic VanHorn VDC. They provided all in attendance with a very enjoyable weekend.

One of the highlights of the banquet was the ceremonial fi rst cut of the cake. This task was performed by Admiral Biesel and two WWII Vets, John Manasse (L) and Gus Kraus (R). Both men were qualified in early 1941, over 68 years “Qualifi ed in Submarines”. These men were the senior qualifi ed Submariners in attendance.

The Central Region-District Two USSVI in conjunction with the North Central Region WWII Submarine Veterans Celebrated the Submarine Services 109th birthday with a Convention and Birthday Ball. The event took place in Manitowoc, Wisconsin over the weekend of April 23/24/25, 2009 with the Holiday Inn being the host hotel. The weekend was hosted by the Crash Dive Base.

The highlights of the weekend included a morning tour of the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, a tolling ceremony at the museum, a retirement ceremony for several CPO’s and a tour of the USS Cobia SS-245 docked alongside the museum. In the afternoon a business meeting was chaired by Distr ict Commander Tom Barnes. The Birthday Ball was held in the evening at the host hotel.

The keynote Speaker was Rear Admiral Douglass T. Biesel (SS), Commander, Navy Region Midwest. The Admiral’s address updated us on the readiness of the present submarine force including updates on the Fast Attack Fleet, SSGN’s and SSBN’s and some of the innovations being used in new construction.

Manitowoc was one of the locations where submarines were built in WWII. 28 submarines were launched sideways from the shipyard that was located several blocks from the present location of the Cobia.

USS Cobia sits ready for your visit

RAdm Biesel was a warm, engaging guest and speaker.

Bob DeVore President of WW11 Submarine Veterans and Walter Gus Krause Recording Secretary WW11 along with Don Morell Director North Central Region WW11 and most of the North Central State WW11 State Directors were in attendance.

The 2009 District Convention and Submarine Ball was enjoyed by all in attendance.

Even the Great lakes Float seemed to have a good time!


Remember when you caught your Dolphins between your teeth?

SEA POACHER & SCOUTS

Jack Merrill, Base Commander of Sea Poacher Base, Bartow, Florida presents the USSVI Recognition Certifi cate to Steven Andrew Lewis at his Eagle Scout Court of Honor on 2 May 2009 in Lakeland, Florida. Well Done, Steven!

USSVI BASES IN ACTION

Seawolf Base Growth and Memorial

SEAWOLF BASE, Panama City Beach, FL, was chartered in 1993 and has continued to grow following the USSVI Creed. Our membership has continued to grow which enables us to get involved in more activities. Our goal has been to contribute to the local community and one way that we have done this is to sponsor the area unit of SEA CADETS, a youth organization, which is lead by Base Member John Duncan. This year we were successful in raising funds enabling our Base to donate $1,000.00 to children of single parents and impoverished homes to participate in this very worthwhile program.

Another project which has provided us with media attention in the local paper and TV was the building of a parade fl oat which we have taken to Veterans Day and 4th of July parades. The media coverage has enhanced our recruiting efforts and increased our membership.

We fi nished a long term project, from concept to completion, and on June 23, 2009 SEAWOLF Base had the formal dedication of its “SUBMARINE MEMORIAL” located at Pier Park Veterans Memorial, Panama City Beach, FL. The two and a-half foot high granite memorial is on the outside of the Veterans Circle.

The inscription on the memorial reads: This Memorial is dedicated to all the men lost while serving in the US Submarine Force PAST AND PRESENT. Victory at sea did not come cheaply, 52 Submarines and over 3,600 men lost their lives during WWII. Nearly 200 were lost before WWII. Over 300 lost their lives after WWII, September 2, 1945 to present.

The ceremony commenced with the Parading of the Colors by the SEA CADETS, The National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance,

Central Texas fl oat is just rolling along..


It takes two people to baptize a cat, maybe more

Blueback Base Members Honored

At the recent OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) annual volunteer appreciation ceremony, Blueback Base members were recognized for their years of work as volunteers on the USS Blueback (SS-581). Awards were given to: Fred Carneau, Chris Stafford, and Bob Walters - Gold service pin for 15 years; Keith Miller and Gary Thrall - Silver service pin for 10 years; Chuck Macaluso, Otto Tzevelekos, and Gary

and Invocation. The Mayor of Panama City Beach welcomed everyone and was followed by the “Tolling of the Boats“, using a Bell from the Navy Support Activity. Next came remarks by two SEAWOLF Base Members, Richard I. Brooks, CDR, Ret, (Former CO USS Picuda (SS382) and John Coleman, who made seven war patrols on the USS Lapon (SS260). Commander Mark M. Matthews(SS), Commanding Offi cer, Experimental Diving Unit was the Keynote Speaker. CDR Brook’s quoted,“ When you pass this veterans circle, think not only of those who sacrifi ced their lives, but also of those who made routine sacrifi ces.” Upon completion of the ceremony all present were invited to a luncheon at the local FRA Club.

Webb - Bronze service pin for 5 years. In addition Fred and Bob received the President’s Lifetime Service Award. This award is given to volunteers who have dedicated 4,000 or more hours over the course of their lives to serving others. Pictured are Fred and Bob with the award certifi cate.

E-Mail: [email protected]

ELECTRONICAMERICAN SUBMARINERWould you like to get the AS delivered earlier?Would you like the US Post Offi ce to Butt out?

Would you like to save USSVI a few bucks?You can do it! Just send an E-Mail to:

ASOPTOUT@ Yahoo.comAnd telling us that you want to opt out of Hard Copy; that you no longer need a paper magazine. If you are so inclined you can download your magazine from the USSVI webpage at USSVI.org. Every AS since 2005-3 is on the web..What’s your preference? Best, Editor..

SEAWOLF CONTINUED


Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

American Submariner Boat Sponsorship ProgramThe 2010 Boat Sponsorship Program (BSP) Renewal Season is here. We want to thank all who sponsored in 2009 and hope that you will continue to do so. We also want to encourage the more than 12,000 members who haven’t taken advantage of this great way to getthe word out about our organization and to help support the magazine.

What is BSP? Your contribution or Sponsorship sends three American Submariner magazines of each issue for the entire year to the Command, Boat or other place of your choosing. The cost is just $30 / year. Many members have multiyear sponsorships and more than one is always welcome. You may add a new 2010 SubVets Calendar for only $7.00 additional. The calendar is there 365 days of the year.

Bases and Individuals are encouraged to become sponsors. Bases can collect the money and send a single check along with the names of the contributors and the exact places they wish to sponsor. The Base gets credited with all sponsorships by the Base and the Individuals are recognized for their participation. There are two separate annual prestigious “BOTTOM GUN” awards for the Boat Sponsorship Program. One is for the Base with the most Boat Sponsorships. The second is for the Base with the highest percentage of Boat Sponsorships measured against the number of members of the Base. Individual Sponsors receive a Certifi cate of Appreciation, listing the sponsored locations and a “one time” 5” BSP patch. Bases receive a Certifi cate of Appreciation lisitng the sponsored locations. Many Sponsors receive Thank You letters from the sponsored units. Today’s Active Duty Submariners will be the keepers of our History and Legacy; they are our Relief Crew!

There are three levels of sponsorship:American Submariner: $30.00 per year - Send 3 American Submariner magazines per quarter - total of 12 per year, to the Boat or place of your choice. Add $7.00 and send a current USSVI Submarine calendar as well. You, the Sponsor, receive

an appropriate Boat Sponsor patch and Certifi cate of Appreciation.

Thanks to the 86 Bases and 138 Shipmates that have stepped up to support the BSP and representing 435 Boat Sponsorships so far this year. It is at the highest level ever for the BSP.

American Submariner Magazine P. O. Box 892616 Temecula CA 92589-2616

Any questions or comments, please contact Bill Lee, Program Manager, at [email protected] or call: 520-668-7419.

Thanks Bill Lee, BSP Manager

The names of Shipmates and Bases are those who have contributed as of 18 July 2009 of this year. We are missing 128 of last year’s Donors and hope to bring some of them back on board before year’s end. The magzines do get read and they are appreciated by everyone of our readers. We are working hard to cut out the “Boiler Plate” and increase the articles, as you can see in this issue, we have about six pages more articles. Keep sending them in and we will keep putting them out.

Thanks for your service and thanks for supporting the Boat Sponsorship Pro-gram. Rest assured that you are contrib-uting to the Creed, you are contributing to the mission of USSVI.Best, Michael

T Michael Bircumshaw Editor.


The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a leaky tire.

BASE SPONSORS

DOUBLE DIAMOND 39 Scamp30 LIB25 New Jersey North21 Bowfi n

DIAMOND19 Seattle17 USS Chicago15 P. C. Stryker Jr.13 Central Florida

PLATINUM11 Perch11 New Jersey South10 Groton9 No Virginia8 USS Parche8 Mare Island8 Cod7 Tarheel7 San Diego7 Dallas7 Bremerton

GOLD6 TJC6 Redfi sh6 Ponce De Leon6 Minn-St Paul6 Cyber Base6 Columbus5 USS Corvina Base5 Escolar5 Buffalo Base4 Wahoo4 Tucson4 Topeka-Jeff City4 Tang4 Rocky Mountain4 Razorback4 Hawkbill4 Barbel

SILVER3 West Lake Superior3 Tri-State3 Thresher3 Sturgeon3 PC Stryker Jr3 New Jersey North3 Cuttlefi sh3 Albany Saratoga

2 Yakima 2 Wisconsin2 Volunteer2 USS Haddo2 Reading2 Pocono2 Nautilus2 Long Island2 LA Pasadena2 Grayback Base2 Golden Triangle2 First Coast2 Charleston2 MAL

SPECIALWhite Sands

USS Virginia BaseUSS Toledo

USS Springfi eldUSS Scranton Base

USS MaineTullibee

SV WW-II GudgeonSub Vettes

South SoundSnug Harbor

SLO Sub Vets BaseSilversides

SeawolfSea Poacher

ReadingPhiladelphia Base

Pelican HarborPC Stryker JrOzark-Runner

New Jersey NorthNew Jersey North

DrumBullheadBoston

Bay State WestBarb

Albemarle Sound

SHIPMATE SPONSORS

DOUBLE DIAMOND20 Schmidt, Herbert A.

DIAMOND12 Oliver, Russell Tom

PLATINUM8 Atkins, Edwin F.

8 Friedrich, Paula A8 Lesley, Dallas7 Keck, Sean P.

GOLD6 Bircumshaw, T. M5 Koogler, James L.5 Martin, Barry L.5 Miller, Robert J4 Bannach, LeRoy R.4 Bowers, Jerry W.4 Dye, Karl R4 Emery, Robert C.4 Hines, Ronald W.4 Householder, Pat 4 Kase, Cynthia4 Markiewicz, John E.4 Palmaffy, Michael J4 Parker, Arthur4 Parker, Judson W.4 Riley, Aster N4 White, Leland D4 Wilson, Jimmy

SILVER3 Andersen, John A.3 Carlin, John A3 Feury, Edward A3 Lester II, Robert R.3 Peters, John D.3 Van Horn, Victor P.2 Andrews, Hugh2 Banks, O. Gordon2 Breitner, Michael J.4 Brink, Robert G.2 Brown Sr., Jack2 Buchholz, David H.2 Budin, Ronald A.2 Burnett, John T.2 Cabot, Alan S.2 Chavis, James J2 Cross, C E & Jeff2 Farran, David L.2 Fernstrom Jr, Bill2 Finan, Edward W2 Follo, David B2 Gilbert, Dennis P2 Hansen, Carl J.2 Harnish, David R2 Hosking, Norman2 Kellar, Gene E2 Lewis, Murray P2 McCune, J. Denver2 Milano, Michael J.2 Moore, Tim2 Naso, Angelo J.2 Paterno Jr, Victor E.2 Trubee, John A.2 Vaughan, Sr, Rev R

SPECIALAltschuler, Leslie PAnderson, Robert J

Badar, LeoBingham, RichardBrooks, III, Ben

Burgess, Thomas P.Carlin, John A

Civiletti, Sr., Joseph Cloupe, Robert M

Cole, Allen D.Conlon, ThomasCoulson, ThomasCurrier, Caryl NDavis, Jay K.

Day, Stephen EDebonis, David

Denzien Sr, James Duffy, Ronald JDugan, John JEggimann, Ron

Felt, DawnGadreault, Henry E.Galloway, Robert LGodwin, Ronald H.Hacking, Michael R.Hadden, Jr, William Harvey, Warner M.Hellwig, David G.

Hill Jr, Jack JHoffman, William H

Hooker, Allen F.Hutchens, Hylie W

Irwin, JamesJurcsak, Paul T.Kayser, David

Tupman, Kenneth LKerrigan, Patrick T.

Kimmel, DennisKimmel, Warren R.Kleinmark, Leonard

Kreul, RitaKrompholz, Karl

Lange, Gerald M.Lynch, John J

Marshall, RaymondMcCullough, Ed

McGettigan, James Meyer, Merle AMiller Jr, Neil C.

Moon, CalvinMosley, Lanny

Nigro, MD, Samuel O’Keeffe, Dennis J.O’Leary, Cornelius J

Parker, Gary L.Parker, Velton

Piwowarczyk, RonPolizzotti, Joseph


JOIN USSVI TODAY!

The Benefi ts far outweigh the cost..

NATIONAL DUES: ANNUAL

1 Year $20.003 Years $55.00 5 Years $90.00

LIFE MEMBERSHIPAge 76 plus - $100 66 - 75 - $200 56 - 65 - $300 46 - 55 - $400Under 46 - $500

Check out USSVI on our Web Site at www.ussvi.org and take a look at Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USSVI

Call: 877-542-DIVE (3483)or Send an E-Mail to: [email protected]

and ask for more inormation and a Mem-bership application. You rate Dolphins, You want to do this!

All of my heroes are Submariners..

Pollick, Raymond JReed, Woodrow W.Sanchez, Michael

Sandy PowellSasgen, Thomas C.

Schlegel, DonSeader, Lamarr Albert

Smith Jr, John FStanderfer, WayneStarbird Jr, John S.

Straub, Robert EdwardTacey, Ralph

Theotonio, John A.Tierney, Raymond E.Tupman, Kenneth L.

Veca, Angelo C.Wallach, StanleyWilkins, James E.Willis, Michael K.

Wooden, Carl

BSP SPECIALCONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

BILLY CARTER SEMONES, TM1 (SS)July 3, 1936 – November 2, 1964

USS Henry Clay Memorial Tribute to Billy Carter Semones TM1 (SS)

Seventy-seven patrols, plus countless shakedowns and refi ts, took place before the USS Henry Clay SSB (N) 625 was decommissioned and later scrapped.

In the thirty plus years of her existence only one sailor lost his life in the performance of his duties aboard that ship. Billy Carter Semones TM1 (SS) lost his life November 2, 1964 while the Gold crew was conducting a pre-patrol shakedown cruise. A line locker hatch cover, not dogged properly, was banging and masking the capability of the forward sonar array. The boat was surfaced in bad swells and waves. It was winter and very cold. Billy was the leading deck petty offi cer. He went over the top of the sail and started down the sail ladder. He never made it to the deck where he could have secured the monkey tail on his safety belt to the deck track. A wave swept him overboard. The man overboard party could not save Billy and he eventually slipped from his life vest never to be seen again.

There were many heroes aboard Henry Clay that day including our offi cers who conned the ship to drift with prevailing current to the men in the water when it was unsafe to use the ships propulsion power; our swimmers and tenders who braved the awful sea and cold; the lookouts and the tracking party who maintained track of the men in the water and the track of the Russian trawler hell bent to take sound signatures on us; our medical team who treated hypothermia; those who provided logistic support to the men topside and all of us that hoped and prayed. We also must salute the brave men in the Spanish Navy Corvettes who thwarted the Russian trawler from approaching us too closely.

All of us aboard Henry Clay were overwhelmed with grief and anguish over losing a great shipmate and friend. None of us felt much like


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heroes that terrible day. We performed valiantly as a crew but we failed to save our shipmate. Each of us matured and grew to respect the ever present danger of our profession and the sea. Billy’s death gave purpose to our drills and nurtured cohesiveness as team. Forty fi ve years later those feelings are just as real and will never be forgotten.

The fi rst Henry Clay reunion was held concurrently with the USSVI convention in Kansas City, Missouri. We discussed the fact that Billy’s service was never properly honored in perpetuity.

This Memorial Day 2009, shipmate Dr. Robert F. Smith, formerly EM2 (SS), telephoned me Richard A.(Andy) Wheeler, former FTB2 (SS) and asked if I would lead an effort to honor our shipmate. Other Henry Clay shipmates enthusiastically approved. We decided to commission a plaque to be mounted on the “Commemorative Wall” of the National Navy Memorial in Washington, DC to honor Billy’s Semones service.

We located Billy’s sister Betty Sue (Semones) Whittaker in Billy’s home town of Versailles, Kentucky. She has been married for 49 years to Ronald (Whit) Whittaker who was a shipmate of Billy’s when they served together on the USS Amberjack SS-522. Billy introduced Whit to his sister as the family visited him at the Sub Base in Key West, Florida in 1958. They are thrilled that we are doing this as it will provide a measure of closure to them and to us. Billy enlisted on May 4, 1955. His entire Navy career was spent in submarines He also served on the USS Trumpet Fish SS-425 and the USS Shark SS (N) 599.

Contributions are needed to design and commission this plaque. Our goal is to raise $3200.00. Thus far we have raised $1975.00. Anyone wishing to contribute to this effort may send a check to:

Richard A. (Andy) Wheeler 39 Springdale Way Mechanicsburg, PA 17050

717-620-8144 [email protected]

Robert F. Smith8024 Tennessee Avenue Raytown, MO 64138

816-353-1425 [email protected]


Senior Moments & Other Important Stuff

Another thing I liked about the Boats.. No Mail Buoy Watches

C h a r l e s t o n B a s e Scholarship

Recipients for 2009On April 9, 2009, Charleston Base awarded several scholarships to college bound high school seniors. Charleston’s scholarship fund is named in honor of Admiral James B. Osborne and is given to high school seniors from the Charleston area who have been accepted to a 2 or 4 year post secondary institution. They must be able to show a familial relationship with a submarine qualifi ed individual and demonstrate scholastic profi ciency and extra curricular/community involvement.

This year’s recipients are pictured below: Rebecca Stout, Heather Woodward, Hailey Watson, Mary Caudle, Laura Lanier and Morgan Crouse. Also pictured are Jim Yates (scholarship chair) and Ricky Collins.

Eagle Scout Award L.I. BASELong Island Base commander Mike Zemser awarded Sean Robert the Eagle Scout Award on June 26, 2009.Sean Robert is the son of John Robert, USS Dace, 607 served 1982-86 and Grandfather Louis Robert, USS Tench, 417 served 1951-53

The USS Snook Base of Northwest Arkansas members line up for Bella Vista 4th of July parade.

Left to right are: Chuck Copeland, Herb Wise, Wayne Hartsfi eld, Lee Lacey, and Pete Rathmell.

The Right Answer About 1955, while serving in USS Cusk (SS348), our subma-rine division made a transit from its home port, Port Hueneme, California, to Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii. Most of this transit was made on the surface in State 5 seas. I was an ETRSN(SS) and stood lookout watches. One of my watch-mates was seasick the entire trip. In fact, he was so sick the offi cer of the deck allowed him to stand the port lookout watch for over an hour at a time, so he didn’t have to go below decks so often. During one of my turns as starboard lookout, I heard the of-fi cer of the deck engage the sick lookout in conversation in an attempt to cheer him up and get his mind off his illness. After a couple of exchanges of questions and answers, the offi cer of the deck said, “Where are you from?” To which the sick lookout said, “LAND!”



Painless Nell’s sister, Painful Jo, inked me the fi rst time and I hardly cried..

.

The Fortunes of War

I shipped on December 15th of 1941 and proceeded by train to Boot Camp San Diego. Through a mix-up in my orders I was 3 days AWOL on arriving. Learned to salute anything that moved and if it stood still, paint it Green. Six weeks of very basics, learned how to tie a square knot. We moved to a ship and headed for Pearl Harbor. Arriving to a very messy Harbor the ship tied up at Submarine base.

About 600 men spent the day by the pool in Hart Circle, while the Navy called us off in numbers to go to duty on ships and stations that had lost men or needed more Cooks, Yeoman and Torpedo man. At close of day the chief pointed at the Submarine barracks for the 16 or so of us left. “Find yourself a Bunk up there on the Second deck as you are now Ships Company Submarine base.

After 3 months of picking up Cigarette butts and candy wrappers or hauling supplies I volunteered for Submarine Duty. I was assigned to Sub Div. 42

and for the next year I worked on the Division Subs or went to the Shipyards to help as assigned. I dove every tank, Scraped every rusty hull and painted them with pitch. Meanwhile I worked on my Qualifi cation Log as I stood watch on Subs at the docks.

Just about a year to the day I was assigned to duty on the USS Haddock SS 231. Left her in Midway for a 3-month tour before being assigned to the USS Pogy SS 266. Where I qualifi ed in June of 1943. Then made four Patrols and was assigned to new construction Submarines at Manitowoc.

I then put the USS Kete SS 369 in Commission as MoMM2c and stood my watches as Throttleman in after engine room. I was one of thirty-two experienced men in a crew of 87 as we put to sea on 1st Patrol. We met with elements of the 5th Fleet and one of their Destroyers on our way to the East China seas. That is a story that needs to be told as an unknown about the USS Kete History. Activities are passed on quickly by word of mouth. Experience helps to fi ll in the elements of the story.

First word passed was Smoke on Horizon! Nothing on our radar? Presumed that a Destroyer would have a much greater range. They had us plotted and were underway. Command would know and react? Skipper submerged and had a look to identify. Went to 300 ft and silent running to avoid. Estimated destroyer came about thirty miles to our position and locked on to us and began Depth charging! During the next 30 to 45 minutes we took a hell of a beating! All depth charges were close and shook us mightily.

Word was we were attempting with Flares for a friendly I D. Time passed and the beating continued. Finally quiet and word was passed. Our destroyer Dallas, 1943

boys were good! Never had a beating like that from the Japanese.

A few days later our Bow planes froze on hard dive position. I was involved in checking the new Waterbury system and advised using a come a long to pull them to zero and park them. To avoid using the main Hyd. System and possible contamination.

Eng. Offi cer overrode suggestion and used Main Hydraulics. Days later received word to go to Saipan for repairs. #1 IMO pump was failing as we arrived. Cracked Cyl. Ring had badly scored Tilt Piston.

While there I along with 4 others from Engineering dept were transferred to USS Fulton AS 11 as ship’s company. (Another story.) Kete went back to sea to fi nish fi rst patrol and returned to Guam for repairs. Left on 2nd and last patrol. Reported lost March 20 1945. My good fortune. I was a survivor!

Dallas Dolan, Submariner

Bill McGraw & Dallas Dolan hit the beach in PH

USS KETE SS-369


Remember when your clean clothes were the ones at the bottom of the Bunk Bag?


There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.

Boat Reunions Charleston’s Cold War Memorial

If you are planning to have a boat reunion in Charleston, South Carolina, what better place to hold your memorial service than the Cold War Submarine Memorial at Patriot’s Point?

It is located in Mount Pleasant, S.C., just minutes from the major hotels where reunions are held.

The memorial is free of charge and can be reserved by your boat. Additionally, USSVI Charleston Base stands ready to assist you with your needs. We have a PA system, music system, podium, klaxon, chairs, tables, etc. We will assist you as necessary to get these items to your memorial service.

Primary contact is Steve “Buddha” Nelms, (843) 563-7115, e-mail: [email protected] Carl Chinn, (843) 875-

Lost Boats Memorial Located in the Mountains of North Carolina

In June of 2003, Sub Vets from the Tarheel Base met in Burnsville, NC to dedicate a submarine memorial that had been built by Chief Torpedoman Harrell Flowers.

Chief Flowers, rode the USS GATO (SS 212) during WWII, actually constructed this memorial himself with some assistance from a friend. It is constructed entirely of native white stone. Included is a large carved stone plaque listing the 52 boats lost during WWII which is set into the wall of the base for the second tier. Above the plaque on the second tier is an anchor and chain. On the third tier a yardarm with lanyards for fl ags is located.

At the time on the dedication, Chief Flowers had already gone on eternal patrol but the property still belonged to the Flowers’

family. The memorial is located on the side of Moonshine Mountain several miles from Burnsville off of NC Hwy 197.

Directions to the memorial can be found on the USSVI website by clicking on the Sub Memorials button. As a side note, the town of Burnsville was named after Captain Otway Burns who was a navel hero from the War of 1812.

In 2005, the property was sold to Tony Valovich, who is an Air Force veteran. Tony, who recently became an Associate member of USSVI and the Tarheel Base, have committed to maintain the memorial.

This memorial has become the site for an annual meeting of the NC Subvets. Since its dedication in 2003; we have met there each year except 2004. For the past 2 years, Carolina-Piedmont has been the host base.

This year Tony and his wife were able to be there when we “tolled the boats” at the memorial. Tony is standing in the left foreground wearing a red shirt in the picture of this year’s attendees.

3098, e-mail: [email protected] and Marty Ses-sler, (843) 871-1536, e-mail: [email protected]

To reserve the Cold War Memorial contact Angie Bennett at (843) 971-5057. When you call Angie be sure to ask her to unlock the power outlets for the date selected if you need electrical power.

EDITOR’S NOTE:Jus t le f t a reun ion ou t there fo r USS Scamp SSN-588. (5-9 May 2009) Interesting place, friendly wait-resses. Be sure and ask Buddha about Bert & Ernie. The only Bert & Ernie I ever knew were from Maine.Never thought they’d go south !


Check out all the events and available Hotels and RV Parks in the AS on the Web at USSVI.ORG

Dolphin Vest Clasp“New Item”

San Luis Obispo Submarine Veterans Base members, their families and relatives, along with members of the San Luis Obispo Naval Sea Cadet Corps, and our invited guest speakers, gathered together on April 11, 2009, at the American Legion Post 136 in Arroyo Grande. The gathering, and a traditional Santa Maria Style Barbecue, was in celebration of the 109th Anniversary of the founding of the United States Submarine Service on April 11, 1900, and the 3rd Anniversary of the Chartering of SLO Subvets on 12 April 2006.

SLO Sub Vets Base Commander Bob Baker called the Base to attention with the posting of colors. He then called for the tolling of the lost boats of World War II and after. Captain Bob Christensen read the names of the boats while ST1(SS) Rick Wesolowski, Chief of the Boat, tolled the bell.

Guest speakers at the Birthday celebration were San Luis Obispo County Fourth District Supervisor K. H. “Katcho” Achadjian and Greg Steinberger, LT. USN, anti-submarine war crewmember and owner of the local Arroyo Grande “Doc Burstein’s Ice Cream Parlor,” as well as our own USSVI Western District 5 Commander George Petershagen.

The day’s festivities were capped off with a drawing for door prizes donated by local merchants.

SLO Sub Vets Celebrate


Monuments & Memorials; It’s what we do!

CONFIDENTIALU.S.S. BOWFIN (SS287)

Report of Second War Patrol. [Modifi ed to fi t this abridged report]

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN. (2nd para) The highlights of the patrol were the very aggressive and well planned attacks of 26 November, where two ships of a fi ve-ship convoy were sunk in the early morning, and a single ship sunk at 1058 after a determined chase submerged and surface. Again on the 28th November the BOWFIN ran into a fi ve-ship convoy with several escorts and three ships were sunk, the third after the BOWFIN had been hit by a richochet. The commanding Offi cer with coolness and tenacity, and believing his own ship fatally holed, sank the ship fi ring on him thereby saving his own vessel, besides sinking an important enemy unit. The above attacks are worthy of study by all submarine offi cers.

U.S.S. BOWFIN - Report of SECOND War Patrol.

(B) NARRATIVE - 26 November, 1943 - SD got large contacts at 2 miles and 1 mile. SJ fi nally perked up and gave me contacts on each side from 1,000 to 4,000 yards. I realized I was in the middle of a convoy. Again backed full to avoid ramming another large tanker, and realized all ships were northbound. A careful sweep revealed that the convoy consisted of fi ve ships. Commenced tracking.

[TORPEDO ATTACK #1] Fired three at leading vessel. Saw one hit and in the rolling fl ame of explosion and fi re saw the bridge, bow section and high forward mast of large tanker disintegrate. A second hit, explosion and fi re amidships (range 800 yards) revealed a second high mast amidships and low funnel all the way aft. Large fi res started, but went out as the bow sank and the center section went awash. Only light left was gasoline (could smell it) burning on the water near the target. Lights appeared all along the after section revealing three life boats in davits. Great, deep steam whistle started blowing continuously. As all this took place had shifted to second target and fi red fi rst shot at second vessel. Leading tanker stopped cold and swung broadside to me. Had to check fi re and back emergency to keep from ramming tanker as fi rst torpedo hit second ship with great rumbling explosion and fl are up of fl ame which quickly went out.

My situation was now this: I was less than 300 yards from damaged tanker, with second damaged vessel about 1,500 yards beyond him and what I thought were depth charges going off to starboard. Decided to forget center and second ship and fi nish off the tanker before escort arrived as I fi gured this might be the biggest ship I’d ever shoot. Swung stern to him and opened range. At 1,200 yards remaining portion of damaged tanker took up full binocular fi eld giving him a remaining length of at least 400 feet. Fired three stern tubes

(#10 door would not open). Saw one hit under the stack. Whistle stopped blowing and all lights went out. Continued to hear depth charges or explosions. To quote BLUEFISH, “They sound fi ne when you’re on the surface”.

Investigation of SJ radar reveals that due to improper tuning I have had a blind spot ahead explaining why I have been running into things with no warning.

[Later in the morning] SJ contact on target. [TORPEDO ATTACK #2] Fired four bow tubes. Spread by periscope. Saw four hits completely demolish target which disappeared in less than two minutes.

27 November, 1943 - Decided that I am off Buffalo Rocks north of Hon Kan Island. Sighted a ship standing south along the coast. Decided I better get on the surface if I wanted to catch anything bigger. There is some doubt in my mind about wasting torpedoes on this fellow, but as Admiral LOCKWOOD says, “Submarines must take what comes rather than wait for something better”; and I could not forget Admiral CHRISTIE’s remark: “There is a ship”.

[TORPEDO ATTACK #3] Fired three stern tubes at Frenchman. Two hits and he disintegrated. Sank in less than one minute.

28 November, 1943 - BILLFISH reported targets. Commenced tracking. My portion of convoy consists of fi ve ships and several escorts. Three very large targets, two large ones. Planned to give leading and largest target four bow tubes, the second two bow tubes and to hold my only two stern tubes for future developments. Told BILLFISH that I was 7,000 yards ahead of targets and ready to attack. He told me to go ahead.

[TORPEDO ATTACK #4] Fired four bow tubes at leading and largest target. Four hits. Target sank in about four minutes. Shifted to second vessel in column. Fired two bow tubes. Two hits. Target down aft and awash to bridge. Third large vessel of column abeam to port about 1,800 yards and bearing down on me. I recognize my dangerous position, but I could not pass up the chance to fi nish off damaged ship. Decided to give damaged ship my only two torpedoes aft. Third vessel of column opened fi re on me with fi ve or six inch

USS Bowfi n SS-287 Pearl Harbor today


Why was it that as soon as the spuds were out of the shower - the stills went south?

gun at 500 yards. Second shot appeared to hit engine room. Shells now passing overhead. I think he had spotted me as I turned dead ahead of him. Fired two stern tubes at third large vessel. Two hits amidships. He stopped shooting at me and began to sink, sagging in the middle. Just before fi ring I had a report that the pressure hull was not pierced, but I knew we had some damage aft. Steadied on convoy course and began to pull ahead while I reloaded my last two torpedoes forward. Engine room reported taking water through the main induction. It wasn’t washing over the bridge so I now knew that the shell hit had been in the superstructure and had pierced the induction lines aft. Bow tubes ready. I now had fourth vessel on port quarter with no escorts on his port bow apparently searching to seaward, and the fi fth vessel on my starboard beam. Fired last two torpedoes to hit with cold set-up. First torpedo prematured at 13 seconds (less than 500 yards ahead of me) and probably defl ected second torpedo as I got no hit. This premature cost me a 7,000 ton vessel and two sure hits.

Shifted to battery and put pressure in boat. Hull is tight with fl appers closed, but pressure bled off rapidly on opening main induction hull fl appers. Beginning to get light. Stopped and got repair party on deck. Hit had ricocheted up onto the superstructure and exploded between the pressure hull and the starboard induction pipe. Induction pipe is ripped open badly with numerous additional small holes. Ventilation piping has several holes. All low pressure blow lines aft completely carried away, (whole sections ripped and mangled) and deck planking broken. Pressure hull is nicked. Plugged all small holes in piping and put quick soft patch over big ragged hole in induction. Surfaced and headed for Dangerous Ground. [In their spare time they sunk other ships with their deck gun.] Boat credited with 70,948 tons sunk. CO W.T. Griffi th.

This WWII Patrol Report is provided by St. Marys Submarine Museum. Presently entering into MS Word nearly 1,800 WWII Patrol, Lost and Wolfpack Reports from offi cial Navy patrol reports with the assistance of volunteers. Located in Saint Marys, GA, just 10 miles east of I-95 Exit-3. OPEN Tue-Sat 1000-1600 & Sun 1300-1500. CLOSED all Mondays, Easter, Thanksgiving and two weeks over the Christmas - New Year Period.

To help perpetuate our history we have a membership & sponsorship program. Museum Manager John Crouse, MMCM-SS USN-RET. USSVI Life mbr & Recipient 2nd Ben Bastura Award. USSV of WWII Assoc mbr & GA State Dep Cdr. 912-882-ASUB(2782) or [email protected]. To complete our collection of offi cial copies of patrol reports if disposing of offi cial readable copies please send to our museum.

EDITOR’S NOTE: 1943 sounds like it was a long time ago, sounds like ancient history. It was before 8 track, Chevy did not yet have a V-8 engine (Ford did), Playboy magazine did not exist and meat and shoes were rationed. The fact is that I was four years old and living with my mother and a woman named “Hermance” in a virtual slum area known as the “Anchorage”, next to the Naval Supply Depot in Clearfi eld, Utah. I clearly recall that the “pre-school” I attended gave each of us a tablespoon of “Castor Oil” followed by a tablespoon chaser of “Catsup” every day. (It was either a punishment or some form of witchery meant to ward off evil spirits)

Another fact is that this War Patrol report is “Living, current, today” history. Walking among us is a man who made every one of Bowfi n’s nine war patrols. He is the last of those several Shipmates who shared that accomplishment He was a Fire Controlman aboard Bowfi n and was personally involved in every shot she took. He is a retired CWO3 who served on board the USS Sicard, USS New Mexico, USS Bowfi n, USS Piper, USS Tang, USS Nereus, and the USS Grand Canyon and now serves as the multi-term President of the San Diego Chapter of the WW-II Sub Vets. He is also a Life Member of the Scamp Base in Escondido, Ca. His name is Art Carter. He lives quietly with his wife, Edna May, and an extremely protective miniature Pinscher in San Diego.

I call Art every now and then and he sometimes calls me, just because we want to do it. You can be in touch with your history too. Call one of your WWII Sub Vet buddies today!.

USS Bowfi n (SS/AGSS-287), Balao-class submarine, was a ship of the United States Navy named for the bowfi n, a voracious, predatory fi sh native to the Great Lakes, the Mississippi valley, and nearby waters. This dull green, iridescent fi sh is little used for food or sport (but has a terrible bite).

Bowfi n was laid down by the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard at Kittery, Maine on 23 July 1942; launched on 7 December 1942 by Mrs. Jane Gawne, wife of Captain James Orville Gawne; and commissioned on 1 May 1943, Commander Joseph H. Willingham in command. The Bowfi n was de-commed and re-commed several times until fi nally being struck from Naval records on 1 Dec 1971. Bowfi n became a museum boat on 1 August 1979.

EDITOR’S NOTE (2): Until reading it in Wikipedia, I thought that the Bowfi n was named after the Bowfi n Whale - “Live and learn”


Central Region Quarterly News

If we do not tell this generation of Submariners & the World about us - Who will do it?

MOVING? MOVED?CHANGING ADDRESS?PLEASE SEE PAGE 47..

PLEASE!

Another USSVI convention is again approaching in San Diego. Bonny and I both look forward to renewing friendships with all our Central Region and USSVI friends in San Diego. Cincinnati base has made plans to host a great convention in 2010.

We will have a new base in Tennessee located in Chattanooga, the Carbonero base with (23) Charter Base members. This base should be up and running by the time you receive your next American Submariner. District Commander Tom Barnes CRD2 will travel to Tennessee and will present the Base Charter to the base and swear in the new Base Offi cers.

I would like to see every base in the Central Region host a Tolling of the Boat ceremony for the community near their base in 2009. This is a great way to recruit new Base members and let the communities within 50 miles of the base know that the Submarine Veterans are a active Veterans group in the community. Newspapers(your state).com will provide the list of all the newspapers in your state. The District Commander or Regional Director will be happy to help with preparing a news release if any base needs assistance. Many bases and museum boats conducted Tolling of the Boat ceremonies Memorial Day Weekend. To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country.

This will be the fi rst year that the Central Region Director at the Annual Business meeting in San Diego will be presenting a plaque to a base in each of the (4) districts of the Central Region that recruit the most base members from September 2008 to August 15, 2008. Small, mid-size and large bases each have an equal chance to be a District winner. I believe

we can recruit 250 new members in the Central Region prior to the San Diego convention. With your help shipmates this goal will be met. Members of several bases in District 3 travelled to Omaha, Nebraska to work on the USS Marlin located in Freedom Park. David Farran District Commander CRD3 and Bill Lee Base Commander of Lockwood Internet have been working on The USS Marlin project for several months in conjunction with the Omaha parks and recreation department. The USS Lockwood Internet Base has made the USS Marlin their Submarine Memorial project for 2009. Donations to help with preparing the USS Marlin and getting it painted can be sent to Bill Lee, 312 W. Main Street, Clarinda, Iowa 51632.

Central Region District 2 held its 2009 District Convention and Submarine Ball April 23-26 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. This was a joint convention with the North Central Region WWII shipmates, Don Morell Director. Nearly all the State Commanders of the North Central Region were in attendance. Bob L. Devore National President and National Recording Secretary Walter “Gus” Krause were in attendance. Most of the Base Commanders from District Two were in attendance. Over 115 shipmates and their ladies attended the Submarine Ball. Crash Dive Base hosted the District meeting along with Tom Barnes CRD2 Commander and Vic VanHorn VDC2 Central Region.

Three Chiefs were recognized that weren’t piped over the side when they retired. They were offi cially piped over the side with Chiefs and Shipmates in Uniform acting as side boys. A Tolling of the Boats ceremony for the 52 boats and (2) boats lost in the Cold War was conducted and the carnations were dropped over the side from the USS Cobia by Regional Director Carl Schmidt and Don Morell WWII North Regional Director. The keynote speaker at the banquet and Submarine Ball was Douglas T. Bisel (SS) Rear Admiral US Navy.

Bonny and I attended the Tolling of the Boats ceremony at Fort Mitchell, Kentucky hosted by the Cincinnati Base at the largest free standing bell in the United States. We would like to extend a BZ to the Cincinnati Base

Carl Schmidt CRD


Snorkel Patty, Big Rusty, Miss Bev, Hungry Helen; I miss you. Where’dja go? LAST CALL !

A Submarine Birthday Ball was held on April 25, 2009 in Marblehead, MA. This marked the 109th year since the incep-tion of the United States Submarine Service.

The event was hosted by the Marblehead Base of the United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. and inducted three Boston Base USSVI members into the Holland Club. This club rec-ognizes sailors who have been qualifi ed in submarines for at least 50 years.

Marblehead Base Commander Peter Koester began the impressive ceremony with “getting underway”— simulating the crew diving to patrol depth, then he read the list of boats “still on eternal patrol,” tolling the bells twice for each boat. Candles were extinguished after the reading of each boat’s name. A moment of silence was observed for all shipmates on eternal patrol.

Commander Koester read the history of John P Holland. Mr. Holland designed and constructed the Submarine Holland V1 that was purchased in 1900 by the US Navy.

Each of the inductees were presented with a packet that included a patch and two certifi cates. A letter of recognition was read from William E Britt, Holland Club Commander. All Holland Club members present stood to be recognized. After dinner, the new Holland Club members cut the Birthday Cake.

A memorable evening was enjoyed by over 100 guests from both Bases.

The inductees were John Simons, Lee Hutchens, and Richard Boylan. John qualifi ed on USS Pilotfi sh in 1944, Lee on USS Cobbler in 1958 and Richard on USS Dogfi sh

MARBLEHEAD BASE INDUCTS

THEIR NEWEST HOLLAND CLUB MEMBERS AT THE ANNUAL BIRTHDAY BASH

All Holland Club members present were asked to stand, and a good looking group they are.

“THE DEEP STEAL” An exciting Cold War submarine adventure that takes place in Russia, the U.S., the Philippines and on and under the South China Sea. The author is a retired Submariner and Deep Sea Diver. $18.50 - Includes shipping and handling... Send check to: BP BOOKS ENT. 241 PLEASANT BAY ROAD HARWICH, MA 02645

THIS COULD

HAVE

HAPPENED!


Gilly & Grapefruit - It doesn’t get any better than that !

MOVING? MOVED?CHANGING ADDRESS?PLEASE SEE PAGE 47

PLEASE!

CLASS ADS...MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

VESTS MADENEED A USSVI VEST? Contact the “VEST LADY” at www.SUBVEST.com Serving Those Who Already Have. NAVY Wife Keeping Busy! (what an Oxymoron!)

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DO YOU LIVE IN THE USA?Are you over 62? Do you own (or are paying for) your own home? Could you use more money? Would you like to know about the FHA guaranteed and insured Reverse Mortgage? “NEW” Fixed rates available! If you answered yes to the above questions and would care to understand the program call SubVet Michael at 951-587-8469. The information is absolutely free.

New Book, get it at e-booktime.com or Barnesandnoble.com. The Submarine Dur-ing the Cold War Author Mark Pater Noster Price: $8.95 Paperback, $24.95 Hard cover ISBN:978-1-59824-892-0Paperback, 91 PagesPublication Date: August 4, 2008 About:

The Men, the Pride, the Threats, and the Disasters

The SubFarer; Test Depth 660’ Full Swiss movementCustom designed for Submariners.

Only at Bold Military Jewelry See page 33

800-630-2965


How many remember weather bad enough on a Fleet Boat so that you Snorkled on the surface?

Memorial Day at the USS Cavalla,

On Memorial Day, the Cavalla Historical Foundation and the Cavalla Base of USSVI held its annual Memorial Day service at Seawolf park. The speakers were seated on the Memorial Plaza which is ringed by plaques commemorating the 52 boats and men lost in World War II. Additional plaques are also mounted on the plaza for the Scorpion and Thresher. It seems a fi tting place for a Memorial day service and a Tolling of the Boats.

Grady Harrison, former DCA from the USS James Madison and the Chairman of the Cavalla Historical Foundation served as the MC. The Service was well attended by veterans and civilians. Many of the Cavalla volunteers were present including Mike Pullen, Dave Stoops, Jim Kegerris from Vicksburg, Jeff Morris and his wife Sue from Dallas, Ernie Connor and many others.

The speaker for the navy was a submariner on recruiter duty here in Houston, Christopher Rawls ETC, SS,

The Tolling of the Boats was conducted by the WWII Subvets, and identical twins Bill and Bob Hamilton who served together for 4 years on the Pomfret. A number of WWII members from the San Jacinto chapter were present also.

Because of the fence around the Naval exhibit we could no longer approach the water to place a wreath, so one of the CHF members had arranged to have the Coast Guard drop the wreath by helicopter. They did a beautiful job, hovering just above the water, and placed the wreath while providing the meaning of the wreath in the memory of those “still on patrol” who have no grave, and what it represented by loudspeaker so the audience could hear it. It was a touching moment and the wreath bobbed in place during the balance of the ceremony as the day was quite still. It was a beautiful, touching and poignant ceremony and it was an honor to have the WWII subvets still with us able to conduct the tolling ceremony. While the overall service was for all military services, and each branch gave a brief comment on their service, we were honored to have a number of other submariners participate.

Retired Captain Jack King, former CO of the nuclear Cavalla, Capt. Zeb Alford, ret., former CO of the Shark, Sam Houston and XO of the Cavalla and who put the Tullibee into commission.

Ron Harter of the Cavalla Base did a great job putting together a ceremony that was meaningful and the memory of the valient men and women who paid the price for freedom was honored.

James Worthing a Holland Club member who qualifi ed on the USS Runner rang the bell as the list of boats were called.

A number of others whose names I cannot remember were there as well and many of those who volunteer on the Cavalla worked hard to prepare for the service and were present for the service. It was wonderful to see so many of the volunteers who have worked on the Cavalla since the beginning of the restoration in 1998. John McMichael and Billie were of course there and A Couple of the WWII submariners whose names I remember were James Clepper who qualed on the SS 227, and also served on SS-377, SS-342, SS-320, Al Kvello, Robert FennellAlways Remember, Never Forget.


Is it true that the SS approved method for ear wax removal was directly related to Head Valve frequency?

RAZORBACK GOES TO ACAPULCO!

It was 1955. RAZORBACK was now operating out of San Diego, having been converted to a target classifi cation with a newly designed plastic sail and to be used as a target in the extensive trials of the early new rocket assisted anti-subma-rine missile device (RAT) project).

RAZORBACK had a new skipper, LCDR Bill Boose (sp?) who relieved LCDR Chuck Stastny. Boose had come from BuSh-ips in a sonar program. He wasted no time in connecting the ship’s sonar to the SS radar in the conning tower. He could be found there, wrapped in webs of wiring and soldering gun in hand, much to the consternation of the ET’s! But it worked! And we had a rough visual display in the conning tower for the fi rst time of incoming sonar pings, ship screws and other sea noise. Looked bad but worked good!

RAZORBACK was selected to make a cruise to Acapulco in company with a destroyer full of Naval Reservists and a paymaster. We had left San Diego with all of our monies left ashore, expecting to be paid in Acapulco.

On the way south one day during a dive, Sonar reported a strange hissing sound on a bearing ahead. On hearing this, the Captain dashed down into Sonar, located beneath the control room fl oor. The Captain called up “Tell the Conn to head for the noise, take her down to 400 ft, all ahead 1/3, and tell the cooks to muster every empty pot, pan and box they can fi nd”! When he came back up into the control room he said “THOSE ARE SHRIMP!” As shrimp swim they click as they fl ex. Four million clicks at the same time sounds like a hissing noise!

RAZORBACK arrived at the huge ball of swimming shrimp above us and, backing slowly, came to a hover under the shrimp, then pumped 500 lbs out of the trim tanks and began to rise up through the cloud of shrimp. When we reached the

fl at calm and sunny surface, we opened the main induction and blew on up. We could see through the scope and the bridge watch could now see that our decks were covered 8-10 inches deep with huge (U-10 count) green wiggling shrimp from stem to stern!

The Captain ordered the after battery hatch opened and after a rain of shrimp, the cooks and eager volunteers went on deck and began loading all the containers with live shrimp. The shrimp chain-gang moved the containers below and into the freezer. Within half an hour we had recovered enough shrimp to have it on the menu every day in one form or another for several weeks! Happily, the following transit on the surface with frequent training dives fl ushed the remaining shrimp out of the decks and deck lockers!

That was going to be the highlight of the trip except that the destroyer developed a disintegrating shaft bearing and turned around to return to San Diego on one screw and taking the paymaster with it! Having no money when arriving in Acapulco was a potential disaster but the day was saved when we an-nounced a quiet and unoffi cial open house for local dignitaries and American tourists and carefully ‘leaked’ our plight.

One tourist couple came to the boat and said that their son had been in the RAZORBACK crew some years before and had loved the ship. They wanted to say “thank you” and of-fered to host the entire crew (in two sections) at the famous seaside hotel restaurant where as a fi nale the diver dove down a narrow gap into the sea. We ‘penniless’ sailors accepted with gratitude and enjoyed the experience after making that wonderful couple “Honorary Submariners”. Other tourists were equally generous and our week stay in Acapulco was scored a success.

This experience turned out to be typical for RAZORBACK during her entire career. The RAZORBACK attitude and spirit continued and is real today!

Does anyone else remember this trip?

By Jay K. Davis, then LTJG, Supply Offi [email protected]


CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORMPlease put your new address here, cut it out and send it to the National Offi ce at

POB 3870 Silverdale WA 98383-3870- You can call it in: 877-542-DIVE or you can E-Mail it to [email protected] Please do it!

Your name is on the reverse with your old address.NEW ADDRESS

ADDRESS:______________________________________________

CITY: ________________________STATE:______ZIP:___________PHONE: _____________________ E-MAIL:___________________

Please help us get your magazine to you. We really want you to get it!

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

What a Concept!

The GOOD NEWS is that the COA form at the top of this page is becoming more and more popular! Shipmates are fi lling it out and sending it in to the National Offi ce and they are continuing to receive their American Submariner magazine. Do not be afraid to join in if you are moving, have moved, are going to move. Stay ahead of the curve. On the other hand 168 Shipmates were reported by the (NCOA) National Change of Address service, which we pay for, as having moved without letting their magazine or Base know about it. We also received 94 return notices from the USPS (they cost fi fty cents each and the magazines are thrown away). And we paid a half a buck each for the 79 “Temporary Away” notices telling us that those shipmates took extended vacations (more than 30 days) and their Post Offi ce has thrown away all of their “Bulk Mail”, which includes the Ameri-can Submariner, and we all lose. USSVI lost the money and the Ship-mates lost their magazine.There are four possible options:1. Continue as you have and lose the money and the magazines.2. Send in your Change of Address at the earliest moment.

SNOWBIRDSYou could be a Snow Bird. If you have two residences that you move between on a seasonal basis; you might be a Snow Bird.

You must change your address every time you move from North to South or South to North. The easiest way to handle this is to call Fred Borgmann at the USSVI main offi ce and give him the information. He will tell you what he needs. If you prefer to do it yourself, you can swap the two addresses you have put into the Data Base whenever you move from one address to the other. Or you can make a deal with your Base Data person to make the changes for you. It is not automatic.

The main offi ce phone number and e-mail is listed above in the bright yellow CHANGE OF ADDRESS form. If you do not change your address every time you move the Post Offi ce will throw away your AMERICAN SUBMARINER and charge us fi fty cents for telling us about it. Call, THIS change is good!

3. Step up to First Class delivery. Send twelve dollars to AMERICAN SUBMA-RINER POB 892616 Temecula, CA. 92589-2616 and your magazine will be au-tomatically forwarded to your new address for a year. You will still need to send us a Change of Address.4. Opt out of paper copies and take the Electronic AMERICAN SUBMARINER. It is larger than the paper version, you get it earlier and it is no cost to replace it whenever you want to. Just E-mail your Opt Out to

[email protected].

Ever fi nd yourself following an 18 wheeler just for the Diesel Fumes?


UNITED STATES SUBMARINE VETERANS, INC.31064 WELLINGTON CIRCLE - TEMECULA CA 92591-6930

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S.POSTAGE

PAID DALLAS TX

PERMIT # 2024 RETURN SERVICE

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Date post:	19-Oct-2021
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