american submariner

Volume 2012 Issue 2 $5.95

AMERICAN SUBMARINER

OUR CREED: “To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments.

Pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and its Constitution”

Receive your American Submariner Electronically - More magazine, delivered earlier.Send an E-mail to [email protected] requesting the change.

Norfolk 2012

Bird’s eye view of Norfolk Naval Base

The sights of the city in daylight and at night. The harbor, the zoo, and the MacArthur Memorial. All worth while to see at the 2012 convention.

American Submariner

If at first you don’t succeed, skydiving is not for you.

Volume 2012 - Issue 2

AMERICAN SUBMARINER

The Official Magazine of the United States Submarine Veterans Inc. is

published quarterly by USSVI. United States Submarine Veterans Inc. is a non-profit 501 C-19 corporation in

the State of Connecticut. Printing: A. J. Bart of Dallas, Texas.

Mailing: Dalton Mailing Service

National EditorGordon Palmer

Editorial Office American Submariner

[email protected] 860-730-2871

35 North Street Manchester, CT 06042 ADVERTISING

Toll Free [email protected]

Assistant Editor David Kauppinen

Associate EditorsWilliam Fernstrom

Joan Peters - Bob Miller Gil Shaddock - Kit Carson

Marsha HudsonTreasurer

Hugh “Blackie” BlackwellPhotographer

Robert “Bob” BissonetteStaff ArtistTom Denton

The American Submariner is not responsible for the claims of the

Advertisers, however the primary focus of this publication is for the benefit and

service to USSVI members. Issues concerning Advertisers may be sent to the

Editorial Staff for mediation.

CHANGE OF ADDRESSChange of address is handled by your Base Membership Chairman or the USSVI Main Office in Silverdale, Washington. Call: 877-542-DIVE Send E-Mail to: [email protected] if you only have stamps, snail it to: American SubmarinerPO BOX 3870Silverdale, WA 98383-3870 If the above instructions are too complicated, then send your change of address to the Editor; but whatever you do, send it!

“THIS EDITION”

Thanks for reading the American Submariner. Thank you for your Service.

4. National Commander’s Corner6. USSVI Committees7. USSVI Regions & Districts8. Letters to the Editor10. Eagle Scouts12. Days Gone By/ Heroes among us14. Scholarship program/ Haddo base16. US Submarine Losses17. Chaplain’s Message/ Fleet news18. Boat Reunions21. Convention/ Something to do22. Medal of Honor loss

AMERICAN SUBMARINER SUBMISSION DEADLINESEdition 2012-2 Feb. 15, Edition 2012-3 May 15. Edition 2012-4 Sept 15, Edition 2013-1 Feb 15 2013. Articles received after the indicated deadlines may be con-sidered for publishing in the next scheduled edition of the magazine. All articles are published at the sole discretion of the Editor.

AMERICAN SUBMARINER COPYRIGHT 2012The American Submariner and all material therein is copyrighted under the laws of the United States of America and any reproduction in any form, analog or digital, without the written permission of the Editor is forbidden by law. All permitted reproduction requires acknowledgement of source; Author and the American Submariner.

Notes from the Editor...

WASHINGTON – Twenty years after the end of the Persian Gulf War, the Depart-ment of Veterans Affairs plans to standardize and improve treatment for the one in four veterans who suffer from a multi-symptom illness that could have been caused by environmental exposures. Sinise is giving back to veterans and first responders. Actor-director Gary Sinise has touched the lives of thousands of U.S. service members. Gary Sinise often travels overseas to honor and entertain the troops with his Lt. Dan Band, and his Gary Sinise Foundation helps support them when they return home.Former military service members who retired from service as the result of medical reasons could have a second chance at obtaining veteran benefits. Some veterans are eligible to reapply for benefits.

VA Information:

23. Kap(SS) 4 KId(SS)24. Eternal Patrol26. Candidates/Convention Package40. New Members 44. American Subvettes/Save our Hertiage45. Base News from around the Country49. Hell on the High Seas50. Boats of Old..51. What’s Happening in the World53. 2012 Convention Registration Form 54. John Holland’s Death56. Rosie the Riveteer

As you all know, the national convention is right around the corner. This year’s convention is in Norfolk and really should be the event of the year. This is also an election year and your vote for candidates and amendments to our constitution is important for USSVI. Your vote is a voice in what is going to be happening for the next two years. Please use that opportunity to help manage USSVI.This system is a tad better than on the boats where there was no discus-sion about doing something that you were told to do. Use this as a sound-ing board to let the national officers understand what are the needs of the membership.The Editor

American Submariner

National Commander’s CornerT. Michael Bircumshaw

National Commander

Shipmates, This has been an interesting and challenging couple of years.. On the personal side, my health and financial situation have been greatly impacted, however, both of those issues are well under control and I am able and willing to re-dedicate my self and my time to all things Sub Vet. My sincere thanks goes out to all of you, the members of this tre-mendous brotherhood, for your participation and advancement of Sub Vets. I must give serious recognition to all USSVI officers and committee appointees, from Base Commanders and their sincere efforts to the District Commanders who contributed their time and travel, and the Regional Directors who went to extra lengths to get the job done.None of what we have accomplished could have been anywhere near possible without every one of you who made positive contribu-tions in time and effort. Lastly, but not least, I heartily commend your elected Board of Directors who have worked so diligently for all of us. The BOD has given a tremendous amount of thought and energy to considering, preparing, and then objectively scrutinizing and submitting the Proposed Amendments that you will find in the center section of this editon of the American Submariner. Please read them over carefully and if you have any questions please take them to your officers and to the BOD to ensure that you understand the ramifications. The BOD has overwhelmingly approved and supported these amendments with the simple objective of doing all that they can to improve and advance USSVI. Along with that, now is a really good time to make your reservations for the USSVI Convention in Norfolk. Rooms in the main hotel are quickly filling up as we look forward to another “Bench Mark”

convention. I am assured that the convention committee is doing all it can to bring in as many Vendors as possible into the venue so that you and your Ladies will have ample shopping time and product to choose from. The Honor Navy Vets group will be there conducting no-cost (to you) interviews and giving you the CDs for you to share with your kids and their kids to watch and hear you tell your personal Submarine story. There will be a spectacular “Tolling of the Boats” (weather permitting) ceremony conducted onboard the USS Wisconsin BB-64. USSVI has far outgrown the expectations and dreams of our founders and I am sure that Joe Negri would be extremely pleased and totally amazed at where and how far we have advanced. In 1964 I remember Joe telling me that he would like to see every Boat sailor as a member of USSVI and that his reality position was to get to 1,000 members and wouldn’t it be great if we could break 2,000 and 5,000 was the impossible dream.. Well Joe, we now have Thirteen Thousand one hundred ninety members and we might crack the 14,000 mark this year. Thank you for sharing your dream with us, Joe, and thank all of you for lighting the fire. I clearly remember the day that Joe signed up member number “33”, David “Muskrat” Musgrove EM1 (SS) of the USS Robert E Lee SSBN-601 and one other un-named shipmate in early ‘64 (ask me about that day sometime.)Best,Michael

PO BOX 892616 Temecula, CA 92589 951-308-6479 [email protected]

BEWARE OF BOGUS EMAILSPentagon warns against bogus e-mailsThe Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), which manages accounting and financial operations in the Defense Department, has issued a warning about scam e-mails seeking personal information. The bogus messages appear to come from a DFAS employee with a dot mail address and have been sent to uniformed personnel, retirees, and civilian employees. “The emails indicate that individuals who are receiving disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may be able to obtain additional funds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS),” says a notice on the DFAS Web site. “These emails are not issued by DFAS and will likely result in a financial loss if you comply with the suggestions in the email. “Bottom line — do not send your personal information or copies of your tax returns and 1099s to the individual listed in the email.” The DFAS warning says the e-mail claims funds can be received from the IRS if the recipients send personal information, such as that on tax forms, “to a so-called retired Colonel at an address in Florida.” “Do NOT follow the suggestions in the email because you will be providing a significant amount of your personal information to a complete stranger,” the notice continues, “which could result in a financial loss to you.”


Al Singleman Jr.Junior Vice Commander

425 East Campbell Rd. Ext.Schenectady, NY 12303

518-355-2119 [email protected]

John Markiewicz National Treasurer

5349 Selton AveJacksonville, FL 32277


Jon JaquesSenior Vice Commander

752 S Church St.Murfreesboro, TN 37130


National Secretary Thomas Conlon8 Davis AveHarrison, NJ 07029-1502 [email protected]

Has your Base adopted a Memorial or Museum Boat yet?

Veteran’s Take Note...

Urgent Call At the recent national convention in Springfield, a problem was brought up in one of the meetings. Families of Subvets who went on Eternal Pa-trol did not know how to dispose of their navy memorabila. Having each person’s momentos being discarded is crazy. Each piece is history of the submarine service and those who have served. Families, who do not want those pieces of history should contact the American Submariner so we could help in preserving his-tory and the memories of those who served. The Editor

VA expands list of ships with Agent Orange risk By Patricia Kime - Staff writerPosted : Saturday Jan 21, 2012 The Veterans Affairs Department has added 47 vessels to its list of Navy and Coast Guard ships whose crews may have been exposed to the defoliant Agent Orange. Former service members who served aboard these “blue water” ships as well as the more than 200 others listed in VA’s database from 1962 to 1975 may be eligible for disability compensation. Vessels recently added to the roster include the hospital ship Repose, which operated in close coastal waters from 1966 to 1970, and the transport ship General R.M. Blatchford, which landed elements of the 1st Infantry Division at Vung Tau in October 1965. The online inventory is not fixed; it is updated periodically as veterans or VA staff provide or find evidence that a ship moored, operated close to shore or traversed an inland waterway where its crew risked exposure to the toxic herbicide. VA pays disability compensation to qualifying veterans or their survivors for 14 medical conditions associated with exposure to Agent Orange.

The POW/ MIA FlagWhile going thru some old files I found this information about POW /MIA flag. In 1971 Mrs. Michael Hoff, the wife of a US military officer listed as missing in ac-tion during the Vietnam War, developed the idea for a national flag to remind every American of the US service members whose fates were never accounted for during war. The black and white image of a gaunt silhouette, a strand of barbed wire will symbolize the steadfast resolve of the American people to never forget the men and women who gave up their freedom protecting ours. Three years later in 1982, the POW/MIA flag became the only flag other than the Stars and Stripes to fly over the White House in Washington, DC. On August 10, 1990, Congress passed US Public Law 101-355, designating the POW/MIA flag.Every state agency institution of higher education and every county, city, and town must display the national league of families POW/MIA flag along with the state and national flag upon or near its principle on specific days… these days are: * Armed Forces Day – third Saturday in May, *Me-morial Day – Last Monday in May, *Flag Day – June 14, *Independence Day – July 4, National POW/MIA Recognition Day - third Friday in Sept, - Veterans Day – Nov. 11. If the designated days fall on a Saturday or Sunday, The POW/MIA flag will be displayed on the preceding Friday.Submitted By;Carl Schmidt National Chaplain USSVI

You Should Know...

American Submariner

Get to Norfolk in 2012 and Rochester in 2013

USSVI COMMITTEES AMERICAN SUBMARINER

National Editor Gordon Palmer, 35 North Street

Manchester, CT 06042860-730-2871

[email protected]

Boat Sponsorship, Jack Messersmith 7770 E. Loos Dr. Prescott Valley

AZ 86314-5520 928-759-9544 [email protected]

Staff Artist - Tom Denton 301-845-0049 [email protected]

Advertising [email protected]

951-3086479

Archives - Greg Stitz501-773-4252

[email protected]

Awards - John Stanford3026 Cesery Blvd.

Jacksonville, FL 32277-3527904-743-3197

[email protected]

Base Commanders Group Richard McPherson 949-667-5389

[email protected]

Chaplain - Carl Schmidt H 501-843-7855 C [email protected]

Constitution & By Laws--Parliamentarian

Richard Nelson [email protected]

Convention Committee Don Brown 775-853-5309

[email protected]

Eagle Scout Awards - Vic Paterno [email protected]

Historian - Peter J. Koester26 Long Hill Rd., Rowley, MA 01969


Kap(SS) 4 Kid(SS) John Riley 203-668-9131

[email protected]

Long Range PlanningMel Duffey

[email protected]

Membership Al Singleman NJ V C

[email protected]

National Office - Fred BorgmannPOB 3870 Silverdale, WA 98383

877-542-DIVE [email protected]

Past National Commander Patrick F Householder

[email protected]

POC Manager - Jim Fox


Public Relations - John Theotonio609-581-8663

[email protected]

Storekeeper-Barry Commons2063 Main St. PMB 293Oakley, CA 94561-3320

[email protected]

Technology CTO - Tim VeArd

Veterans Affairs - Brian Steffen803-897-2480

[email protected]

Ways & Means - Jon D. Jaques 615-893-7800

[email protected]

CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

Donations - PO BOX 3870 Silverdale, WA 98383-3870

877-542-DIVE [email protected]

Brotherhood Fund John D. Peters

98-1547 Akaaka St.Aiea, HI 96701-3051


Library Fund - Greg Stitz

[email protected]

Memorials and Ceremonies Ray Wewers 479-967-5541

[email protected]

Scholarship - Paul Orstad 860-889-4750 [email protected]

Treasurer Robert (Bob) Bowman425-576-1884

[email protected]

BOARD OF DIRECTORSNon-Voting Members

Holland Club ChairmanFrank A. Lister

[email protected]

SubVettes National PresidentSandra Butcher

[email protected]


USSVI Regions & Districts

The following information is to assist you in contacting a USSVI Base. The District information includes the District Commander’s name, phone, and e-mail. To find a base near you, go to the USSVI web site,

WWW.USSVI.ORG or contact the District Commander or National Office.

USS Swordfish had the first confirmed sinking of a Jap ship

Western Region Regional Director: James A. Dunn 520-423-1986 [email protected] Western District 1. States of: AZ, NM. District Commander: John W. Messersmith 928-759-9544 [email protected] Western District 2. States of: CO, UT. District Commander: Dave Linker (303) 987-9358 [email protected] Western District 3. States of: ID, MT, WY. District Commander: Ronald Star 208-665-1392 [email protected] Western District 4. States of: WA, OR, AK. District Commander: John Mansfield 253-202-6433 [email protected] Western District 5. States of North CA, North NV. District Commander: George F. Petershagen 530-221-6210 [email protected] Western District 6. States of South CA, South NV, HI District Commander: Leonard W. Heiselt 951-790-1278 [email protected] Western District 7 (WD7) Wyoming, Montana, SE Idaho, western South Dakota, western Nebraska. District Commander: Ron Martini 307.674.9847 c 307.751.3244 fax [email protected]

Eastern Region South Regional Director Bill Andrea 561-790-1287 [email protected] ESD1. VA, NC. District Commander Dick Kanning (919) 774-5006 [email protected] ESD2. SC, GA. District Commander Paul Viering 843-797-2623 Home 843-693-2595 Cell [email protected] ESD3. Fl Panhandle, AL, MS, LA. District Commander James W, Morehouse 850-477-4433 [email protected] ESD4. Northern FL. District Commander William Sweany 386-328-8892 [email protected] ESD5. Southern FL. District Commander John Troia 239-481-7689 [email protected]

Eastern Region North Regional Director: Paul Orstad (860) 889-4750 [email protected] END1. New England. District Commander Thomas R. Shannon 781-229-2254 [email protected] END2. Lower NY, NJ, Philadelphia District Commander Les Altschuler 609-395-8175 [email protected] END3. PA. District Commander Hubert C. Dietrich 412-486-2635 [email protected] END4. MD, DE, Northern VA. District Commander Michael Naughton 301-926-7703 [email protected] END5. Upstate NY. District Commander James Irwin 518-383-2481 [email protected]

Central Region Regional Director Wayne Standerfer 972-298-8139 [email protected]

Central District 1. States of: AR. KS, MO, OK. District Commander Raymond Wewers 479-967-5541 [email protected]

Central District 2. States of: WI, IL, IN, MI, OH. District Commander Victor P. Van Horn 708-609-9840 [email protected]

Central District 2. Vice Commander Pete Womer 574-273-6313 [email protected]

Central District 3. States of: MN, ND, SD, NE, IA. District Commander David Farran 319-352-1015 [email protected]

Central District 4. Great State of Texas District Commander: Tom Williams 512-632-9439 [email protected]

Central District 5. States of: KY, TN. District Commander Marlin Helms 865-435-7490 [email protected]

American Submariner

Life is simple. You’re Either Qualified or you’re not !

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR YOUR LETTER COULD BE HERE !

BUT ONLY IF YOUR E-MAIL WORKS AND YOU USE IT!

National Editor American submarinerFrom: Charlie (Chopper) Center, For-mer Vice Commander Barb Base Cape Coral FL. I talked to you about Eternal Patrol leaving memorabilia that their families don’t want and don’t know what to do with or where to send their precious memories.I’m involved with Invest in America’s Veterans Foundation a 501 (c) (3) public charity located in Cape Coral, FL. Invest in America’s which is The Southwest Military Museum/Library has the distinct honor of being one of nineteen hav-ing this dual designation of Museum/Library awarded to us by the Library of Congress. If the families of the past submarine sailors want to contact us about their memorabilia we will gladly accept any of their treasures as part of our museum and library for which they will be given a receipt. All donations are tax deductible. I can be reached at P: 239-451-8704 or at home: 239-542-3038 e-mail: [email protected] you very much. PS we have a submarine wall set up here at the Museum under USS Barb Base

Thank you Charlie for that informa-tion. Hopefully we will be able to set up repositories around the countryto collect these important artifactsof history. The Editor

In response to Gordon Williams's letter about the military discount atHome Depot & Lowes:http://media.lowes.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=2941http://paycheck-chronicles.military.com/2011/05/05/home-depot-still-giving-the-military-discount-year-round-and-the-veterans-discount-4-week-ends-a-year/The discounts are intended as a perk for military & retired military, not forall veterans. I shop Lowes regularly and some cashiers have given me the discount simply by seeing my "Retired Navy" cap, even though I have forgot-

ten to ask for it. Home Depot is similarly courteous about it. I think Mr. Williams's "outrage" is misplaced and a disservice to Home Depot. Tom Wright, ICC(SS) USN(Ret)San Angelo, TX 76904Life Member USSVI & Batfish Base (Muskogee, OK)I go the Home Depot all the time and never had a problem about a discount.I show them my VA id and I get the 10% discount on whatever I am buying.The EditorYou state in the middle of page 5 to contact you if we had knowledge of or in fact have materials that should be preserved. What are your plans for that material? The SubForMus&Library does not need it. They can only display 2-3 % of what they have now. That means my deep depth gauge would only get shown (if they change displays 3 times/year) about 5-6 years down the road. They do NOT accept "loans" nor does the facility at Keyport, Washington. The Library at that facility is the largest submarine book library in the world followed by the Paine Collection at Annapolis's Nimitz Library and then the Keyport Museum Library. USSVI has a nice library at Little Rock but one of these days during a flood the barge that houses the National Library will end up in New Orleans. I hope our National Archives that were moved there recently is on dry land. There was an attempt 5-6 years back to find a building in the Silverdale area to house a museum/library/national office complex but nothing was found. In 2009 at San Diego, Jon Jacques made a motion at an E-Board meeting to start a "Building Fund" as part of the Charitable Foundation. I donated the first $50 as a matter of fact. That fund has received no support from the E-Board since and languishes at less than $500. It was hoped that $500,000 could be raised by grants, donations and bequeaths to partially fund this facility. Not happening. This would be the place for materials and memorabilia

to be kept. Any materials you might gather should not stay at Groton which would be redundant and books certainly are not needed there. What is the Plan-of-the-Day?Ron Martini

We are trying to set up areas on both coasts and around the country as re-positories for this memorbilia. At the last convention it was suggested as a project to consider and come up with a plan. Everything is still in the plan-ning stage.The Editor

Gordon,I just read the letter about Home Depot not accepting our ID cards. That may be one bad thing about that store. I am a member of the Palmetto Base. We are a young Base, just four years old in February. I am on the committee to build the base a nice float. I went to Lowes, and was informed that they do not donate anything to veterans. I went to Home Depot, and was told ev-erything I needed to do, and whom to give it to. Last week I submitted a letter requesting $745.00 worth of material, along with a drawing of the float we are building. The manager that accepted this request was very impressed with the drawing, and description of what would be made from the material we requested. I know they accept a VA ID card, and my Retired ID card. I am sure that with the inquiry from National, with a description of the requirements to receive our ID card, they will prob-ably allow the use of it also.I just wanted to describe the good part of Home Depot versus Lowes.Kenneth R FuhrLife Member of USSVI

Your story is different than most. What people have been saying was the difficulty to use their USSVI card as ID. Most every company needs a offical type of ID in order to keep the fakers away. The EditorCapt. Cromwell was not the CO of the Sculpin .Cdr. Fred Connaway was the


USS Barb SS-220 made 12 war patrols - sank 29 1/2 ships, 146,808 tons

Letters to the Editor continued...

Gordon,To comment on the "Letters to the Edi-tor" 2012 Issue 1 about the discounts that Lowe's and Home Depot gives Military Retirees. Here in Northern California (Santa Rosa and Northward/Southward) both stores give 10% dis-counts to Retired Military Personnel. Cards from USSVI, Inc., Holland Club, Base Membership cards do not work. Even my VA card with "service con-nected" disability does not work. Only the United States Uniformed Service ID card is acceptable. You must be RETIRED Military to receive the dis-count. If all veterans could receive the 10% discount (from all services), both stores would have to rely on Obama Stimulus to stay afloat. That is what is happening here in Northern California. I expect that is the way all over the U.S.Respectfully,John FagerengChief Yeoman (Submarines), USN RetiredUSSVI, Inc. Member and a member of Mare Island Base.

I guess there is not a company-wide policy about the 10% discount to veterans. We deserve to be treated a little better than the average cus-tomer. I too had experiences at both Lowes & Home Depot in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Here is what happened to me....When I showed my life member ID card at Lowes the clerk at the reg-ister took out a folder and checked through all the various veteran ID card samples Lowes had collected

Dear Shipmate Palmer,Do some of our shipmates think the USSVI I.D. cards should give them special privileges? I was under the impression the membership card was to identify a Subvet at our meetings; not to get special privileges from other places. If a United States Armed forc-es Veteran is offered special privileges they should carry a U.S. official I.D. of some sort and not potrayUSSVI mem-bers as a bunch of whining of brats.

Mr. Palmer; I am replying in reference to Gor-don Williams' letter in Issue 1 of 2012 regarding problems with veterans ben-efits at Home Depot. I have just given up trying to guess which checker will honor the veterans preference. As with Mr. Williams, I did not retire from the Navy, only served a couple of years sea duty. I now give all my business to Lowe's, they only require a shrunken version of a DD214. I printed a credit card size copy and blanked out my SSN with a Sharpie. I just mention that I have one, show it to the checker, no discussion required. Gary ThomasLincoln, CA.

Thank you for your input. Policies seem to vary from store to store. What needs to be accomplished is a consistent requirement throughout the chain. Veterans are a special breed no matter when they served their country.The Editor

and placed in this folder and the clerk said that mine was not there and there-fore she could not accept it. I then volunteered to show her my driver's license so she could see photographic proof that I was who my USSVI life member card said I was and she still said she could not accept it. She said that if I had a copy of my DD214 with me she could accept that. I asked her how come the USSVI member card was not on her list and she said that to the best of her knowledge the list she referred to was prepared by the corporate office from various veteran ID cards submit-ted to them when they were setting up the veteran's discount program and apparently none was received from the USSVI. Obviously she could not tell me if one had been requested or not. Basically the same thing happened to me at the Home Depot store with the same reason being given to me by that store's clerk at the register. It seems to me that this whole issue with Lowes and Home Depot could be easily settled by having our executive officers contact the corporate offices of each of these stores and request that they put on their list of acceptable veteran ID cards the one from USSVI. Until that happens we should all make sure that we have a copy of our DD214 folded up in our wallets. I should say that the State of Arkansas has instituted a change in their driver's licenses and they are now putting the word "veteran" on the face of the license and the clerks at both stores said that would be an acceptable form of veteran ID but I would much rather use my USSVI member card....it gives a chance to brag on being a SUB VET!!!!! Thanks much,Bob Buschbacher, MM2SS

Thank you for all your time and effort as editor of the AMEICAN SUBMARINER. Best Regards, C.Dale Barkley

Thanks for your response to the article.Thoughts from a different perspective.The Editor

I saw your story in American Subma-riner (Vol 2012, issue 1) about the veteran’s discount at Home Depot.Here in Arkansas, veterans can get a new driver’s license with “VETERAN” in red letters under their picture.Mine was cheerfully honored at the Home Depot here in Conway, AR and the salesman was very nice and ap-preciative of my submarine service.I’ll bet most states are doing that now on their driver’s licenses.Thanks for a great magazine. Tom Desaulniers / K4VIZConway, ARThere are two kinds of ships;Submarines and targets"Pride Runs Deep"Ain’t that the truth. The Editor

skipper at the time it was lost. When the order was given to abandon and scuttle the boat because of severe damage, Capt Cromwell chose to go down with the boat because he felt that if he survived he might give theenemy info regarding the invasion of Tarawa. For this action he was awarded the MOH. Frank Fatale As Editor, I read my information incorrectly. All of you that sent me the correct information thank you very much.The Editor

American Submariner

Eagle Scout’s Court of Honor USSVI Style...

Thank you for your Service !

Crash Dive Base has occasionally been involved with the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Court of Honor. This one would be special. The Eagle Court of Honor for Louis Robert Iori was held on Sunday, March 11, 2012 at the St. Joseph Church, in Chicago, Illinois. In attendance from

Crash Dive Base was Frank Voznak Jr. the Vice Commander, Christopher Gaines, the Base Secretary, and Treasurer/Chaplain, Glenn Barts Sr. The presentation of the award was given by Louis’s Uncle, Christopher Gaines, after a short dissertation by Glenn Barts Sr. What helped make this special and interesting, besides Louis getting the award from his Uncle, is the project that he undertook. There were many hundreds of old books that were stored in an old school basement that were on the verge of being destroyed or tossed out. Through the efforts of Louis, and working through temperatures and humidity that was reminiscent of the old diesel boats, he was able to catalogue, and find other schools across the country that needed those books. He was then able to get them to those schools that needed them for their libraries. Congratulation’s Louis. Afterward, a comment was received, from one of the attendees, about the ceremony which was given by a small group of Sub Vets who wear their own badge of honor.

“Chris Gaines of Crash Dive about to present award to Nephew”

“Crash Dive Presents Special Eagle Scout Award”

Sept. 19, 2011 Dear United States Navy Submarine Veterans Association, On June 21, 2011 my son Lofton Lewis Hinckley became an Eagle Scout in Boy Scout Troop 1002 from Bismarck, North Dakota, pass-ing an Eagle Scout Board of Review consisting of five members. On, September 18, 2011, we held Lofton’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor and reception to celebrate this milestone that only 3 to 4 percent of Boy Scouts achieve. Shortly after Lofton passed his Eagle Scout Board of Review and became an Eagle Scout, I was surfing the internet on many sites to check the possible military and government departments that would recognize his achievement. One of the many sites I looked at was the United States Navy Submarine Veterans Association. The one thing that jumped out at me was the patch and certificate that your organization presents to Eagle Scouts at their Eagle Scout Court of Honor. The patch is by far the nicest one I have seen to date, plus the USN SVA sends a representative to present the patch and certificate. I sent an email to the site and the next day Victor Paterno with the United States Navy Submarine Veterans Association called me. Victor told me he would set up a presentation for my son at his Eagle Scout Court of Honor. A few days later Victor called me and told me we were in luck, Duane Sand who is a USN Subma-rine Commander lives in Bismarck, North Dakota. This is ironic because Duane lives less than a mile away from us and his son Allen goes to school with Lofton. I called and met with Duane about the presentation, the date and time was set. September 18, 2011, Lofton’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor program was starting to receive guests, Duane Sand arrived in his summer whites. The program starts and all of the participants and speakers were really good. My wife and I received Eagle Scout Mom and Dad pins from Lofton, then my wife pinned on Lofton’s Eagle Scout pin. Next, came the military presentations. Duane Sand was the second of two that we had in the program. I didn’t know Duane Sand very well up to this point but I was about

to see his charisma, humor, and seriousness as his presentation unfolded. Duane presented my son with a United States Flag that flew over the nation’s capital on June 21, 2011, the Admiral Eugene B. Fluckey Award, a USS Ronald Reagan coin, a USS North Dakota SSN 784 cover, a US Submarine Veterans patch, and Certificate. Duane put his dress cover on Lofton’s head as he made the presentation (which made everyone laugh) and read what was printed on the certificate. Duane told Lofton he could join the Navy, go to college, be a teacher, join the Navy, and choose many different fields as a career, yet every third choice was join the Navy. The whole group of guests were in stitches and laughing, it was GREAT. Even Lofton was laughing with Duane’s dress cover on his head. None of us expected this from Duane Sand and we were all delighted as he shook the program up a bit with his humor. My family absolutely LOVED the presentation. After the Eagle Scout Court of Honor concluded and the festivi-ties were over, we received 6 telephone calls at home and one neighbor stopped by to tell us that Lofton’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor was by far the best one they have ever attended to date. They also mentioned the United States Submarine Veterans As-sociation presentation made by Duane Sand, CDR USN. Duane Sand definitely made the event a very memorable occasion for all of our guests. Lofton currently wears the USN Submarine Veterans Associa-tion Eagle Scout patch on one pocket and the Eagle Scout patch on the other pocket of his Boy Scout uniform. The two patches complement each other and look great. I have had a few people on occasion ask where Lofton got the USN SVA patch. I direct them to your website. Thank You United States Submarine Veterans Association, Vic-tor Paterno, and Duane Sand for a presentation that far exceeded everyone’s expectations. Mission accomplished, job well done. Thank You, Lewis Hinckley Proud Father


Rescue on Timor by Irvin “Moose” Hornkohl and Mary Penner I was a torpedoman on USS Gudgeon. In February of 1943 we got a message that the Japs were chasing these Austra-lian commandos on the island of Timor, and they wanted us to rescue the commandos. We pulled into the cove that night, about a mile from shore. The exec picked me and three other fellows to take these rubber rescue boats to the island. We loaded up and started paddling. It was dark as sin that night. We’d get a little burp of light from the commandos and we’d head for that. When we got close to the beach, the waves really knocked us around. I figured I was going to kill myself crash-landing on that beach. We finally made it ashore and five or six of these little natives jumped into my boat. They were being trained by the Australians. None of them spoke a word of English. Some of these natives had their wives with them. We had to leave the women behind. It broke my heart, but we knew the men would be killed by the Japanese and hoped the women could disappear into the villages. By this time the waves were worse. It took me about an hour to get off that beach. The heavy surf would upend the boat and dump us all into the water. That happened three or four times. I tried to tell these natives to bail the water out of the boat. I took my shoes off so they could use them for bailing. That helped, and we finally made it over the surf. The other boats were quite a ways ahead of me; I was out there all alone with these natives. I strained to spot a light from the sub. I’d see a little blink of light once in awhile and head for that. I was get-ting pretty worn out and it was starting to get light. I knew the sub would leave us if we didn’t get back soon. Then I heard those engines start up. I paddled like hell. We made it back to the sub just in time. At age 88, Irvin Hornkohl, a 30 year Navy veteran, recounts his lifetime of adventures, including surviving Pearl Harbor and 11 wartime patrols, in a new book, Just Do It, Crazy or Not, published by Manzano Alley Press.

True Sea Stories...

“Just Do It, Crazy or Not” published Manzano PressAfter reading the account of Irvin “Moose” Hornkohl life, we as navy veterans should write down our story as a piece of history. A history that is slipping away from the newer generations, Moose was born when the country was at its worse. He grew up in the real-harsh place called life. Through his stories, trials, and learning experiences, he became a good man. His life experiences tempered his character and directed his life in a positive direction. All the people that he touched throughout his life remember that he was a straight shooter always telling it like it should be not what people wanted to hear. From his boyhood chum, who helped him get into trouble, to three ladies that signified those different stages of his life? All made him the man and person that he ended up to be today.There is something to be said about being a sub sailor. Being on so many war patrols and enduring the wrath of the rising sun’s forces is a tempering factor. Either you are made for subs or you are not. There is no in between. This book is a really good read and something all of us should read.The Editor

Review Corner...

YESTERDAY TONIGHT Was it yesterday I saw the dolphins jump through the waves and spray as our slender bow cut through the blue pacific bright.Was it yesterday I saw the flying-fish sparkle and gleam in flight from in the bright sun light.Was it yesterday tonight I saw the stars so bright, will the Southern Cross slip below my sight tonight.Was it yesterday tonight the Seven Sister's bright, we made our four engine run to some place unknown in the quiet of the night.It was yesterday tonight as I sleep, and once again I’m eighteen tonight.

By Carl Andrew Seitz STS 3 SS

American Submariner

DAYS GONE BY...Things remembered-Things Forgotten

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Upkeep periods were always a fun thing for everyone on board. Whether it was dockside or drydock it was what-ever you made it to be. My experiences were quite enjoyable. After arriving back from WESTPAC, there was alwayswork to be done. Being in the seaman’s gang, it was never boring. It was a time to make friends or create enemies.Our lead seaman in charge was one of the most unorgangized people that I had ever met. We would start on jobthen he would send us to do something else. Nothing much ever got completed leastwise from the seaman gang. Maybe, this was to educate us into the real world once our time was up. Upkeep periods were generally a good time to learn more about your shipmates and sometimes that could be too much.Upkeep periods gave us more time on the beach. Drinking up a storm and raising “hell” where ever we landed for the night. That most likely would be a submarine bar or a civilian bar that wanted to serve the members of the silent service. By closing time, we were anything but silent. Oh ah, those were the days; drinking, raising hellpuking your guts out. Tomorrow it would begin all over again.The Editor

PS. Over the next two issues or so I am going to catch up on all those pictures and article that have been sent to the magazine since I have taken over the American Submariner. Gordon

Letters from the USSVI GuestbookIf you haven’’t heard from me recently, give me a growl. I have contacts for most BRILLmates still among the living. I’’m one of nine remaining BRILL plankowners. Bill Whelan [email protected]

I am looking for information regarding the USS Pargo that my grandfather commanded during WW2. I have recently donated several items from the Pargo to the USS Bowfin Museum in Honolulu and am looking for information. I also would like to know if anyone has any suggestion on where I can get a battle flag from the Pargo restored. I have and would like to have it repaired and framed worthy of display. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Dan [email protected]

I am looking for sailors from the John Marshall blue 1975 to 1977. I can be contacted on Brotherhood of the Phin or dbf or John Marshall pages on Facebook Karl [email protected]

Who is this lady? She was famous for inventing something most of us use every day. She was the oldest servingAdmiral in history of the U.S. Navy. Please if you know Write an answer to The Letter to the Editor, Thanks Gordon

Just a short note to anyone I might have served with on the Haddock from ‘76 to ‘80. Hey and let’s get in touch Arthur Hampe [email protected] Looking for sailors from Sub Base Repair, Pearl Har-bor, Hi.(1961 to 1965) Doug Justman [email protected]

In Search of...

American Submariner

AMERICANSUBMARINEREDITORIAL OFFICE CHANGE

OF PHONE NUMBERThe number for the American Submariner has been

changed to 860-730-2871

This coming Scholarship season is going to very interesting. We have a student apply who’s father is a civilian lawyer working in Okinawa in support of our troops there and was an FTBC (SS) on the USS James K. Polk. Three Grandchildren of USS Thresher Shipmates on Eternal patrol are also applying. To date (end of February) there is a total of over 60 students applying. I have no idea how many more might have gone directly to the USSVI web page and down loaded their applications. So I’m expecting close to 85 applications +/- 5 by 16 April.This year we are also offering several new scholarships which should help get donations for the program. I have asked and re-ceived permission to have a scholarship named after The Shipmate who started our Scholarship program back in 1980 when he was National Commander James “Jim” Page. He appointed Shipmate Thomas Rowan to put together and start a scholarship program for the “shipmates on the river” who had children trying to get into college but lack some financial support. Jim Page was also the scholarship chairman from August 1984 to August 1985 while my predecessor Edward “Ed” Lang was National Commander. When I took over in August 1992, I asked Jim for some help and ideas and he has helped me ever since when I need it. This scholarship is going to be a $1250.00 given annually. Next we have the Robert J. Burns Memorial Scholarship, whom is being remembered by his wife Joanne who said Robert had a lifelong commitment to children. He served on the USS John Adams as a nuclear trained Machinist Mate 1st Class (SS). This Scholarship is for $1000.00 for Five years.

Next we Have Theodore C. “Ted” Taylor Memorial Scholarship, a career Submariner, Ted was a ETSC(SS) when he retired, serving on Diesel Boats, Support ships and USS Abraham Lincoln. He is being honored by his wife Loma from a significant gift given on behalf of Eleanor Van Slyke in Appreciation for all the help Ted provided her in managing her affairs. The scholarship is worth $1000.00 for five years. Lastly we have one scholarship given by the USS Ethan Allen Association for $1000.00.We have lost the following scholarships due to lack of support; Joe McGrievy Memorial Scholarship which was for $1000.00. Periodi-cally I will post on the USSVI Web page the donation made since last September under the Charitable Fund then click on CF Donors on the left side and go to the top and click on 2011 Donation List. The list will show all donations to that date.By now all the scholarship application requests, all the scholarship applications to be graded for this year should be in and ready for grading by the scholarship committee. I hope to be completed by 1 July 2012 and hopefully have all the letters and scholarship money in the hands of those selected by 1 August 2012 so the students can make use of the scholarship money for their school use.The holidays are now behind us and I hope you all had a very good winter so far as New England has had a mild winter and unusual weather this year compared to last year. My New Snow Blower only had one chance to be used and that must be the reason for lack of snow. Hope Spring is also mild. Stay Healthy and support your scholarship fund today. Thank you. Paul Wm. Orstad, NSC

The Scholarship Program Update

The USS HADDO Base members, associate members and wives,13 persons in all traveled from their base home in Cleveland TN. to Murphysboro, TN to the Alvin C. York Veterans Home and Hospital to provide the home patients with an ice cream social. The Base partnered with Mayfield Dairy (supplier of the ice cream), McKee Food Products (supplier of Little Debbie oatmeal cookies) and Grooms Transportation who provided a van for Base members travel to this event. The Haddo Base members travelled 2.5 hours to the facility and met with the Recreation Director of the Veterans Home. The Director provided a short briefing explaining how patients are cared for and the visitor's do's and don'ts at the Home. With the briefing behind us, Haddo Base members began distributing the ice cream, cookies and most importantly," Thank-ing the Veterans for their service". We met with over 100 patients in a three and a half hour period. Veterans we met were from the WWII, Korean conflict, Vietnam Conflict and Iraq war.Many of the patients were happy they had an ear to tell a tale or two. All the Veteran patients expressed they were proud to have served their country and many had a tear in their eye when we expressed our thanks for their service. This outing was best described from the Base members as personally a very rewarding outing and a very humbling experience. The group was proud to have participated and are looking forward to repeating this event in the future.The general consensus of the group is the professional staff and the facility operations were very impressive. Also, it was comforting to know these veterans are being well cared for. We as a group are thankful there is a place like the Veterans Home at the Alvin C. York Facility for our sick, aged shipmates and fellow service members.

Haddo Base Sponsors Ice Cream Social At Alvin C. York Vet Home and Hospital

The following boats need sponsors:USS Cheyenne SSN 773USS Jimmy Carter SSN 23USS Key West SSN 772USS Miami SSN 755USS San Juan SSN 751USS Tucson SSN 770USS Wyoming(B/G) SSBN 742USS Maine (B/G) SSBN 741USS Henry M Jackson SSBN 730The above boats need sponsors for the American SubmarinerMagazine. Contact Jack Messersmith @ [email protected]


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Recent discussion has brought to mind something some of us might want to consider. If you have ANY desire to seek burial or to be cremated and placed in the Columbarium in Ar-lington National Cemetary, use me as your "on site" contact and family repre-sentative (If you have no combat decorations listed in your DD-214 you can only be placed in the Columbarium or be buried in another less crowded National Cemetary). Leave my name and number with your spouse or next of kin, and I will handle your "on site" arrangements and tell you what documentation will be required. My name Robert D. ARMSTRONG present phone numbers (703) 229-3569 and (703) 399-9575 I find it an honor to assist in representing families in having their beloved veterans placed in Arlington National Cemetery...To date I have done that for six families and my dear bride. DEX(d) Any former member of the Armed Forces whose last active duty (other than for training) military service terminated honorably and who has been awarded one of the following decorations:(1) Medal of Honor.(2) Distinguished Service Cross (Air Force Cross or Navy Cross).(3) Distinguished Service Medal.(4) Silver Star.(5) Purple Heart.http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/eligib.htm

ATTENTION ALL VETERANS!!!

A couple of weeks ago I sent you a copy of a piece from Dr. Joyce Brothers after the sinking of the Thresher that I had found in some old papers. As I continued to search through the old stuff I found the following poem from my wife to me probably in mid 1960s or early 70s. Again I thought you might be interested in it. I showed it to her and asked if it was an original or had she found it someplace and she said she was pretty sure it was an original by her. There were a number of others on a more personal note that I am sure were her originals that I will just keep to myself.

Upon Resurfacing After sixty Days

Take care my pet That you don't get wet When they open that top hatch. (Never know what you'll catch!) A fish might come sailing in! Tell him "This is not an Inn" Get back in the sea! I think he will have to agree The sea is a better place to be Than that stinking old tub That you all lovingly call a "sub"!

Bob Jones ETCS(SS)

American Submariner

Never miss a good chance to shut up.

United States Submarine Losses

Lost US Submarines & CrewsSailing aboard submarines is a hazardous busi-ness. They operate in a hostile environment and do constant battle with the sea. On occasion, the sea wins. Sometimes all the crew dies, some-times there are survivors. Sixty-five submarines built for the United States Navy have been lost during their service -- more than ten percent of the total number of submarines we built. Many were lost during declared wartime when the sea is not the only enemy and sailing in harm’s way is a way of life. Others were lost when the sea was the only declared enemy but the hazards of maintaining peace required the submarines be put to sea. This list is for information, so we don’t forget -- sailing aboard submarines is a hazardous business.J. ChristleyOld Subs Place: Source for this list The Editor

Fleet submarines were designed for a patrol endurance of 8 weeks (56 days). Endurance was limited by personnel, weapon, food and fuel consumption considerations. Most patrols were of 42 to 56 days duration. Three boats made patrols of 80 or more days; BLACKFISH (Sellars), THRESHER (Middleton), and GUITARRO (Dabney).

May

April JuneUSS Pickerel (SS-177) was lost on 3 April 1943 with the loss of 74 officers and men when it was sunk within lume of Shiramuka Light off Hon-shu (AKA Shiramuka Light).

USS Grenadier (SS-210) was loston 22 April 1943 with the loss of 4 of-ficers and men when it was sunk near Penang, ~ 10 Miles West of Lem Voalan Strait (61officers and men were taken prisoner, 57survived the war).

USS Snook (SS-279) was lost on 8 April 1945 with the loss of 84 officers and men when it was sunk within 100 miles East of 18 40N 111 39E, near Hainan Island < 300 feet.

USS Thresher (SS-593) was lost on 10 April 1963 with the loss of 129 officers and men when it was sunk while on sea trials near Isle of Shoals.

USS Squalus (SS-192) was lost on23 May 1939 with the loss of 26 officers and men when it flooded and sank off Portsmouth, NH.

USS Gudgeon (SS-211) was lost on 12 May 1944 with the loss of 80 officers and men when it was sunk off Saipan near Maug Island.

SS Lagarto (SS-371) was lost on 3 May 1945 with the loss of 88 officers and men when it was sunk off Malay Coast in or nearthe Gulf of Siam 7 55N 102 00E.

USS Stickleback (SS-415) was lost 30May 1958, when she sank off of Ha-waii while under tow after a collision with the USS Silverstein (DE-534). The entire crew was taken off prior to the boat sinking.

USS Scorpion (SS-589) was lost on 27 May 1968 with the loss of 99 officers and men when it was sunk while in transit from Med, West of Azores.

USS 0-9 (SS-70) was lost on 20 June1941 with the loss of 34 officers and men when it foundered off Isle of Shoals, 15 miles from Portsmouth, NH, 42 59' 48N 20 20' 27W.

USS S-27 (SS-132) was lost on 19 June 1942 after grounding off Amchitka Island, 400 yds off island Near St Makarius Point (near Constantine Har-bor), all the crew were rescued.

USS R-12 (SS-89) was lost on 12 June1943 with the loss of 42 officers and men when it foundered off Key West, 24 24'30N 81 28'30.

USS Herring (SS-233) was lost on 1June 1944 with the loss of 80 officersand men when it was sunk within shore battery range of Point Tagan, Matsuwa Island, In Kurlies.

USS Golet (SS-361) was lost on 14 June 1944 with the loss of 82 officers and men when it was sunk near 41 04N 1413E.

USS Bonefish (SS-223) was lost on 18June 1945 with the loss of 86 officersand men when it was sunk in ToyamaWan, near Suzu Misaki; 37 18N 137 25E

USS Nawhal SS 167 underway

USS Cuttlefish SS 171 in port

USS Blackfin SS 322 under way

USS Requin SS 481 coming into port


Flett newsF

Chaplain’s Message...

Fleet NewsBy Brock Vergakis - The Associated PressPosted : Monday Mar 5, 2012 9:40:26 ESTNORFOLK, Va. — Navy Secretary Ray Mabus will announce a new initiative for sailors and Marines around the world during a rare “all hands” call.Mabus is scheduled to unveil the new program during a televised and webcast speech at Naval Station Norfolk on Monday. Among other things, it will focus on personal readiness.Mabus has told members of Congress that personal readiness includes ensuring that service members and their families are prepared to handle the mental and emotional rigors of military service.After more than a decade of war, the operational pace for the fleet is not expected to slow down anytime soon as the Pentagon shifts its focus toward the Pacific.Mabus’ speech will be aboard the Bataan, which recently returned from the Navy’s longest deployment in nearly 40 years.

USSVI Chaplain CornerI want to thank the Chaplains who have contacted me for help in finding the Chaplain Manual on the USSVI website and also thank the base officers who have made copies of the Chaplain Manual for those Base Chaplains without internet service. If any Chaplain needs help in finding the Chaplain Manual on the USSVI website call me 501-843-7855. I certainly hope that all base Chaplains in Norfolk at the USSVI Convention will please attend the Chaplain’s meeting. Chaplains who aren’t able to attend the USSVI convention in September, please ask a base member from your base to attend the Chaplain meeting at the USSVI convention in Norfolk. I will be going over the new information in the updated Chaplain Manual. Time is something that seems to pass quickly and it’s again time to make plans to attend another USSVI convention in Norfolk. Attending a funeral service recently I thought back to the first funeral I attended as a young man. The older I get, the more shipmate funerals I attend. I remember when funeral possessions halted traffic along highways, country lanes and streets. We waited until the last vehicle passed before resuming our own trip. It was one way to honor the dearly departed and his or her family. This kind gesture was always returned when it was our sad turn to be in the procession for a family member, friend, neighbor or shipmates. Sometime between the death of my grandparents and my mother and father when I was a younger man I came to realize, I was surrounded with love of friends and family, that I am surrounded with a greater Love. I am reminded that each spring when the songbirds return, the first buds appear and the rains of April water our gardens that the Heavenly Father is always with us. The Good Book says we have three great blessings; Faith, Hope and Love. The way I look at this is, Faith is for today, Hope is for tomorrow and Love for all the days in between and beyond.I try to arise each day thanking our lord for all the blessings he has given us. Then I can face the day with Faith, Hope and Love, that funerals and grave is not the end. Someday we will all meet in a better place. Base Chaplains please ask your base newsletter editor to print the Retiree Check list located in Appendix (3) of the Chaplain Manual in your next base newsletter. Base members when a shipmate goes on Eternal Patrol please wear your submarine vest when you attend the visitation, church service and cemetery service. The family certainly appreciates the submarine shipmates who attend these services.I look forward to seeing the base Chaplains, old friends and meeting new Shipmates in Norfolk in September.Fraternally,Carl Schmidt National Chaplain USSVI

On Saturday March 24th , members of the United States Submarine Veterans Incorporated Tullibee Base of Mississippi conducted the Fourth annual memorial service for the USS Tullibee SS 284. The Tullibee was sunk in March 1944 , on her fourth war patrol, with the loss of 79 of her 80 man crew. The Sole Survivor, Clifford Kuykendall of Wichita Falls, TX was captured and spent the remainder of the war in a Japanese POW camp. He later became a double Purple Heart recipient in Korea. The Tullibee , one of 52 boats lost in WWII, became Mississippi’s boat to honor in 1960. The bell was tolled for each of the 79 men as well as one crewman that was lost on the third patrol into the South Pacific the year before. Pictured are:Kneeling – left to right : Chief-of-the-Boat Barry Barrett of Vancleave , Base Commander Joe Ioffredo of Moss Point, Base Storekeeper Merrill Molaison of Hattiesburg.1st Row Standing – left to right: Base Secretary Lionel Blum of Saucier, Phillip Saul of Vinegar Bend, AL, Vice Commander Richard Johnson of Biloxi,LarryLucas of Biloxi, Base Chaplain James Raborn of Gulfport, Charles Gillies of Ocean Springs, Robert Harris of Gulfport.2nd Row Standing – left to right: Base Treasurer Herb Edmonds of Gautier, Don Parker of Pascagoula, C. L. Harvey of Grand Bay, AL, Fred Holcomb of Ocean Springs, Bob Stanley of Ocean Springs, George Boyle of Pensacola, FL, C.P. Green of Ocean Springs, Al Ferdinandsen of Moblie, AL.

Flett newsF

LONDON — Women will be allowed to serve on submarines for the first time in Britain's history, the country's defense secretary announced Thursday, after research showed there were no health reasons to support the ban.A small number of female officers who have volunteered will begin training next year and start serving on Royal Navy nuclear-powered submarines in late 2013, Philip Hammond said.

Flett newsF U.K. lifts ban on female submariners...

American Submariner

Generally speaking, you aren’t learning much when your lips are moving.

R E U N I O N P U B L I S H I N G

USSVI is, by the nature of its foundation, purpose and creed, interested in all Submariners, past, present and future. It is acknowledged that an individual’s loyalty and focus may be primarily directed toward

the Boat or Boats that the individual has served on and it is recognized that the vast majority of non-career Submariners served aboard only one Boat. Due to that fact it is sometimes difficult to develop an interest in an individual to become a member of USSVI. However, it is a simple fact that all Single Boat reunions will someday come to an end, just as the Submarine Veterans of WW-II, will someday cease to exist. Within the creed of USSVI we are dedicated to the legacy and continuance of all Submarines and all Submariners. USSVI can only carry out its purpose and creed by bringing in new members, now, and in the future. The AMERICAN SUBMARINER is the primary source of Submarine Reunion information and we need your help and assistance. The AMERICAN SUBMARINER is asking for your cooperation and information in

consideration of your reunion information being published in the AMERICAN SUBMARINER.

In return for publishing your reunion information the AMERICAN SUBMARINER is asking for the Reunion Coordinator to furnish the American Submariner / USSVI with the names and contact information of all attendees at the respective reunions. The names and contact information will be used to send each non-USSVI attendee a copy of the most current AMERICAN SUBMARINER and an invitation to join USSVI. Reciprocally, it is agreed that the names and contact information of all USSVI members who served on a particular Boat will be made available to any recognized Reunion Organization to be used only for contacting them in respect to a given Reunion.

Sincerely, Gordon Palmer- Editor

Boat Reunions REUNION PUBLISHING

USS Albany (SSN-753) Reunion 10/14/2012 to 10/19/2012 Baton Rouge, LA: Contact Bob Smeltzer at [email protected] or (410-574-1720)----USS Argonaut (S-166 & SS-475) Reunion 4/18/2012 to 4/22/2012 Virginia Beach, VA: Contact Gary Vernon at [email protected] or (336-922-0800)----USS Atule (SS-403) Reunion 9/7/2012 to 9/9/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact John F Rupertus at [email protected] or (443-618-7713)----USS Bang (SS-385) Reunion 10/22/2012 to 10/26/2012 San Diego, CA: Contact Harry Ross at [email protected] or (310-612-6629)----USS Barracuda (was K-1) (SSK-1) Reunion 9/4/2012 to 9/5/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact John W. Delihanty at [email protected] or (503-762-2706)----USS Blackfin (SS-322) Reunion 9/4/2012 to 9/8/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Edward Poole at [email protected] or (770-932-0642)----USS Bluefish (SS-222 and SSN-675) Reunion 5/24/2012 to 5/27/2012 Branson, MO: Contact John Wittenstrom at [email protected] or (910-235-0191)----USS Boston (SSN-703) Reunion 7/12/2012 to 7/15/2012 Buffalo, NY: Contact Arthur L. Hebert at [email protected] or (603 672-8772)----USS Caiman (SS-323) Reunion 5/7/2012 to 5/10/2012 San Antonio, TX: Contact Douglas W. Smith at [email protected] or (360-377-4763)----USS Canopus (AS-9 and AS-34) Reunion 9/6/2012 to 9/9/2012 Branson, MO: Contact Richard Retin at [email protected] or (503-689-1712)----

USS Capitaine (SS-336) Reunion 10/8/2012 to 10/10/2012 Las Vegas, CA: Contact Thomas H. Morris at [email protected] or (307- 672- 6593)----USS Carbonero (SS-337) Reunion 9/5/2012 to 9/11/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Daniel W O'Dwyer at [email protected] or (352-341-0316)----USS Carp (SS-338) Reunion 9/21/2012 to 9/23/2012 Portland, OR: Contact Tom Foglesong at [email protected] or (541-523-3107)----USS Casimir Pulaski (SSBN-633) Reunion 7/26/2012 to 7/28/2012 Eugene, OR: Contact Steve Everett at [email protected] ----Cavalla (SS-244 & SSN-684) Reunion 4/26/2012 to 4/28/2012 Galveston, TX: Contact Jeff/Sue Morris at [email protected] or (972-298-8807)----USS Charr (SS-328) Reunion 10/17/2013 to 10/21/2013 San Diego, CA: Contact Harry Heller or Lin Marvil at [email protected] or [email protected] or (623-363-2159)----USS Chicago (SSN-721) Reunion 9/5/2012 to 9/9/2012 St. Louis, MO: Contact Jon Dahl at [email protected] or (314-863-4821)----USS Chivo (SS-341) Reunion 9/19/2013 to 9/23/2013 Washington, DC: Contact Stan Pollard at [email protected] or ((330) 749-7151)----USS Chopper (SS-342) Reunion 4/24/2012 to 4/29/2012 New London, CT: Contact John Pearce at [email protected] or (423) 293-0272)----USS Clamagore (SS-343) Reunion 10/17/2012 to 10/21/2012 Pensacola, FL: Contact George Alfred Bass at [email protected] or(704-636-7238)----USS Cobbler (SS-344) Reunion

6/27/2012 to 6/30/2012 Groton, CT: Contact Edward B Sherman at [email protected] or (413-527-4157)----USS Cusk (SS-348) Reunion 9/9/2012 to 9/13/2012 Shelton, WA: Contact Billy P Hrbacek at [email protected] or (360-427-6220)----USS Daniel Boone (SSBN-629) Reunion 10/17/2012 to 10/21/2012 Charleston, SC: Contact Allen Sutherland at [email protected] or (803-266-5189)----USS Diablo (SS-479) Reunion 10/21/2012 to 10/24/2012 North Charleston, SC: Contact Bill Davy at [email protected] ----USS Flasher (SSN-613) Reunion 5/9/2012 to 5/12/2012 Lisle, IL: Contact Kenneth L. Tupman at [email protected] or (815-936-9318)----USS Francis Scott Key (SSBN-657) Reunion 5/9/2012 to 5/13/2012 Charleston, SC: Contact Diane Singleman Jr at [email protected] or (518-355-2119)----USS George C Marshall (SSBN-654) Reunion 8/8/2012 to 8/11/2012 Groton, CT: Contact Neal Sanatngelo at [email protected] or ((781) 843-6218)----USS Grayback (SSG-574) Reunion 9/27/2012 to 9/29/2012 Las Vegas, NV: Contact Mike Dimmick at [email protected] or (702) 810-8056)----USS Greenling (SS-213) Reunion 9/4/2012 to 9/9/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact George Hinda at (717-243-3855)----USS Grenadier (SS-210 & SS-525) Reunion 5/20/2012 to 5/23/2012 Myrtle Beach, SC: Contact Reggie Thurlow at [email protected] or (352-563-1101)----USS Growler (SSG-577) Reunion 5/1/2012 to 5/4/2012 Branson, MO: Contact Don Bosetti at [email protected]


If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.

SEND REUNION NOTICES TO [email protected] Reunions Cont.

or (608-365-6455)----USS Guardfish (SSN-612) Reunion 9/2/2012 to 9/9/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Richard E. Armstrong at [email protected] or (772-882-7018)----USS Guitarro (SSN-665) Reunion 9/6/2012 to 9/9/2012 Vallejo, CA: Contact Joseph Cooke at [email protected] or (707-451-1294)----USS Gurnard (SSN-662) Reunion 5/17/2012 to 5/19/2012 Las Vegas, NV: Contact Phil Green at [email protected] or (608) 269-1464)----USS Halfbeak (SS-352) Reunion 8/16/2012 to 8/19/2012 Groton, CT: Contact Bill Badders at [email protected] or ((603) 606-2900.)----USS Halibut (SSN-587) Reunion 10/14/2012 to 10/17/2012 Fredericksburg, TX: Contact Kenneth Hicks at [email protected] or (360-434-6962)----USS Howard W Gilmore (AS-16) Reunion 5/3/2012 to 5/7/2012 Branson, MO: Contact Bob Munjas at [email protected] or (740) 676-5582)----USS Irex (SS-482) Reunion 5/14/2012 to 5/17/2012 New London, CT: Contact Albert P Hahn at [email protected] or (860-653-3974)----USS Jallao (SS-368) Reunion 5/9/2013 to 5/11/2013 Cleveland, OH: Contact Dom Iammarino or Joe Marinelli at [email protected] or [email protected] or (330-656-2000 (Dom))----USS James K Polk (SSBN-645) Reunion 10/11/2012 to 10/14/2012 South Plainfield, NJ: Contact Gino Bovino at [email protected] or (908-369-8765)----USS John C Calhoun (SSBN-630) Reunion 7/12/2012 to 7/15/2012 Gatlinburg, TN: Contact Stephen J. Springer at [email protected] or (423-613-4294)----USS Kamehameha (SSBN-642) Reunion 9/2/2012 to 9/9/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Bill Hupe at [email protected] or ((360) 373-3730)----USS Lewis and Clark (SSBN-644) Reunion 7/19/2012 to 7/22/2012 Silverdale, WA: Contact Larry Johnson at [email protected] or (210-538-8101)----USS Mackerel (SST-1) Reunion 9/4/2012 to 9/5/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact John W. Delihanty at [email protected] or (503-762-2706)----USS Marlin (SST-2) Reunion 9/4/2012 to 9/5/2012 Norfolk, VA:

Contact John W. Delihanty at [email protected] or (503-762-2706)----USS Nautilus (SSN-571) Reunion 9/27/2012 to 9/30/2012 Groton, CT: Contact Robert Douglas Childs at [email protected] or ((865)-384-6105)----USS Oklahoma City (SSN-723) Reunion 9/25/2012 to 9/30/2012 Rapid City, SD: Contact John Baker at (620-221-0343)----USS Picuda (SS-382) Reunion 5/23/2012 to 5/27/2012 Mobile, AL: Contact John A. Theotonio at [email protected] or (609-581-8663)----USS Pittsburgh (SSN-720) Reunion 7/20/2012 to 7/21/2012 Groton, CT: Contact Lee Johnson at [email protected] or (617-593-6198)----USS Pollack (SSN-603) Reunion10/10/2012 to 10/14/2012 Summerville, SC: Contact Jack Dangerfield at [email protected] ((843) 871- 7498)----USS Providence (SSN-719) Reunion 5/2/2012 to 5/6/2012 Washington, DC: Contact Jim Chryst at (717-284-6996)----USS Quillback (SS-424) Reunion 5/23/2012 to 5/27/2012 Mobile, AL: Contact Irwin L. Stewart Jr at [email protected] or (281-324-2528)----USS Razorback (SS-394) Reunion9/4/2012 to 9/8/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Fred Reker at [email protected] or (615-898-0669)----USS Redfish (SS-395) Reunion 9/2/2012 to 9/9/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Douglas Abramson at [email protected] or (360-652-9709)----USS Remora (SS-487) Reunion 9/4/2012 to 9/8/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact John M. Leeds, Jr. at [email protected] or (401-743-0985)----USS Robert E Lee (SSBN-601) Reunion4/19/2013 to 4/21/2013 Nashville, TN: Contact D. Joe White at [email protected] or (405-348-2195)----USS Ronquil (SS-396) Reunion 10/1/2012 to 10/4/2012 San Antonio, TX: Contact Richard Marshall Osentoski at [email protected] or (734-671-3439)----USS Sailfish (SSR-572) Reunion 9/6/2012 to 9/7/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Art Barker at [email protected] or (865-254-5572)----USS Sam Houston (SSBN-609) Reunion 10/25/2012 to 10/27/2012 Charleston, SC: Contact Howard F. Dobson at [email protected] or (302-764-1197)

----USS Scamp (SSN-588) Reunion 5/12/2013 to 5/16/2013 Branson, MO: Contact Lou Minor at [email protected] or (520-732-1750)----USS Scorpion (SSN-589) Reunion 9/4/2012 to 9/19/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Leonard Reneau at [email protected] or (972-763-9763)----USS Sea Cat (SS-399) Reunion 9/24/2012 to 9/27/2012 North Little Rock, AR: Contact Edwin D. Hymer at [email protected] or (515-981-3006)----USS Sea Poacher (SS-406) Reunion 4/16/2012 to 4/20/2012 San Antonio, TX: Contact L. Yeske at [email protected] or (434-385-7117)----USS Seadragon (SSN-584) Reunion 9/5/2012 to 9/7/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Jerry Gruenhagen at [email protected] or (920-469-0176)----USS Sealion (SS-315) Reunion 9/2/2012 to 9/8/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact John William Clear at [email protected] or (360) 437-1143)----USS Segundo (SS-398) Reunion 10/7/2012 to 10/11/2012 San Diego, CA: Contact Kenneth P. Owen at [email protected] or (760-744-1771)----USS Simon Bolivar (SSBN-641) Reunion 9/2/2012 to 9/10/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Steve DuBosky at [email protected] or (804-824-4456)----USS Skate (SSN-578) Reunion 9/2/2012 to 9/9/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact Ray Fritz at [email protected] or (803-619-1121)----USS Spinax (SS-489) Reunion 5/20/2013 to 5/24/2013 Groton, CT: Contact Jack Hunter at [email protected] or ((401) 849-7282)----USS Sterlet (SS-392) Reunion 9/11/2013 to 9/15/2013 Washington, DC: Contact Richard A Jarenski at [email protected] or (520) 850-1437)----USS Sunfish (SSN-649) Reunion 6/27/2012 to 7/1/2012 Groton, CT: Contact Joseph E. Martin at [email protected] or (828-682-3103)----USS Tecumseh (SSBN-628) Reunion 9/5/2012 to 9/9/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact John J Flynn at [email protected] or (417 684 2556)----USS Thomas A Edison (SSBN-610) Reunion 6/27/2012 to 7/1/2012 Bremerton, WA: Contact David Epstein at [email protected] or (206-285-6222)

American Submariner

Norfolk: site of the 2012 National Convention

Reunions continued from page 19

Fleet News Continued from page 17Female officers kicked off subs in fraud probeBy Sam Fellman Three female supply officers were pulled from submarine crews within months of joining the force for allegedly com-mitting fraud prior to checking in at their boats, a Submarine Forces spokeswoman confirmed Friday. These three were among the eight Supply Corps lieutenants that reported to the submarine force, a cadre chosen to be role models for the younger female submariners reporting straight from training to the previously all-male force. “The alleged actions under investigation involve financial misconduct and in no way involved their performance while assigned to their current operational units,” said Submarine Forces spokeswoman Cmdr. Monica Rousselow, who ex-plained the allegations concerned fraudulent travel claims while on temporary assigned duty. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service investigation began in February, Rousselow said, but she declined to comment fur-ther on the nature of the allegations or who had first reported them because the investigation is still open. The three reliefs are a setback for the ongoing integration of

the undersea force. But officials characterized the disruption as “minimal” — pointing out this is not the first time supply lieutenants had been removed from subs — and that the larger effort is still on track. “Overall, the integration of women onboard submarines continues to progress smoothly and the reassignment of the three Supply Corps officers will have a minimal impact on the integration process,” Rousselow said. Each of the female Supply Corps lieutenants volunteered for sub duty and had been vetted. Once chosen for sub duty, they attended the 10-week-long Submarine Officer Basic Course, Rousselow said. Each lieutenant was to report to the sub along with two female submariners. In total, there were eight of these groups, one each for the Blue and Gold crews of the four subs selected: the ballistic-missile submarines Wyoming and Maine, and the guided-missile subs Georgia and Ohio. None of the female officers had been taken to mast as of Fri-day, Rousselow said. She declined to release their names or the subs they had been assigned to, citing privacy concerns. They are being reassigned to Submarine Group 10 in Kings Bay, Ga., she said.

USS Thomas Jefferson (SSBN-618) Reunion 9/9/2012 to 9/12/2012 Norfolk, VA: Contact John Sweat at [email protected] or (860-287-2766)----USS Thornback (SS-418) Reunion 5/6/2012 to 5/10/2012 Biloxi, MS: Contact Ed Cirucci at [email protected] or (757-466-0234)----USS Threadfin (SS-410) Reunion 9/6/2012 to 9/9/2012 Key West, FL: Contact Jerry Padrta at [email protected] or (772-873-9950)----USS Tiru (SS-416) Reunion 8/16/2012 to 8/19/2012 Washington, DC: Contact Gary Grimes at [email protected] or (703-550-8722)----USS Triton (SS-201 & SSN 586) Reunion 4/25/2012 to 4/29/2012 San Francisco, CA:

Contact Henry Jackson at [email protected] or (706-999-1637)----USS Trout (SS-566) Reunion 5/2/2012 to 5/6/2012 Groton, CT: Contact Art Solomon at [email protected] or (914-799-4752)----USS Trutta (SS-421) Reunion5/23/2012 to 5/27/2012 Mobile, AL: Contact Marshall Parker at [email protected] or (850-477-7367)----USS Tunny (SS-282 & SSN-682) Reunion10/16/2013 to 10/20/2013 Mobile, AL: Contact Lee Ashcraft at [email protected] or (508-699-0931)----USS Tusk (SS-426) Reunion 10/17/2013 to 10/20/2013 San Diego, CA: Contact Edward B. Farley, Jr. at [email protected] or (858-569-4220)

USS Volador (SS-490) Reunion10/7/2012 to 10/9/2012 Laughlin, NV: Contact Andrew Steiner at [email protected] or (928-234-0858)----USS Wahoo (SS-565) Reunion 5/25/2013 to 5/28/2013 Groton, CT: Contact Thomas E Young at [email protected] or (603-362-5781)----USS Woodrow Wilson (SSBN-624) Reunion5/14/2012 to 5/18/2012 Reno, NV: Contact Melvin Cross at [email protected] or ((360) 830-4224)----

For Your Information

2013 NATIONAL CONVENTION IN-FORMATION. The Minneapolis/St. Paul Base of USSVI and the City of Rochester MN invite you to the 2013 Joint National Convention of the USSVI and the U.S. Submarine Veterans of WW2 to be held in Rochester, the home of the World Famous Mayo Clinic. The Convention will run from August 25, through September 2, 2013. The Host Hotel will be the KAHLER GRAND in Downtown Rochester. Boat Reunions will be held at the DOUBLETREE

USS George C. Marshall (SSBN 654) 8-8-12 to 8-11-12 in CT Groton Contact Gregory C. Kane at 860 989-1426 or [email protected]

And the winner is...Richard Stevenson of USSVI Southern Colorado Base has won the model prize for the 2012-1 Edition of the American Submariner.. Congratultions... etc, etc,, and for our shipmates to get their tickets in for the 2012-2 edition..Due to the way the issues have come out. The BSP list are not up to date. Being this is an election year at the convention, the updated list will be in the next issue. I understand that there are some of you sponsers that are not on the list. It will be rectified. There is a list of boats that need sponsers on page14. Thank you for your patients and understanding. The Editor


Ask all of your Shipmates to register at www.decklog.com - Don’t let them get lost ever again

American Submariner

How did those Dolphins get in the bottom of that “Malt” glass anyway?

Now is a great time, and maybe the best time to call up one of your WW-II Sub Vet Buddies and see how he is doing!If you do not have a WW-II Sub Vet Buddy, then now is the time to get one or two. They seem to be getting scarcer

and scarcer, and they make great Buddies.While you are at it, call any of your shipmates .. Do it Today!

NEED A USSVI VEST? Contact the “VEST LADY” at www.SUBVEST.com Eternal Patrol for an American Hero March 18, 2012 was a sad day for the United States of America and the United States Submarine Service. The last living Submariner to have received the Medal of Honor departed on Eternal Patrol. William R. Charette, HMCM(SS) earned his Medal of Honor while serving as a Hospital Corpsman attached to Company F of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division. After the Korean War, William joined the elite ranks of the Submarine Service, qualified in submarines aboard USS Quillback (SS 424) in 1958, and served on the USS Triton, (SSN586) 62-62, USS Daniel Webster (SSBN 626) 63-67 and USS Grayling (SSN-646) 72-75. He retired from the Navy in 1977 as a Master Chief after serving 26 years. William was interred in the National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida with full military honors on Tuesday, March 22, 2012. Family and friends were surrounded by numerous military personnel of all services. Sailors in Dress whites, Marines in Dress Blues, VFW personnel and USSVI Subvets in vests and Garrison Caps were dispersed thru out the crowd. Also in attendance was US Army Medal of Honor recipient Gary Littrell, Command Sergeant Major, USA, ret. After the presentation of the Colors, A 21 Gun Salute was rendered by the US Navy Honor Squad which was followed a lone bugler playing Taps. Opening prayers were then offered, followed by a brief eulogy by Captain (SEAL) Frank W. Winget, USN. The United States Flag was then folded and presented to Mrs. Charette by US Navy Sailors, who also served as Pall Bearers. Any military funeral is a somber event, but a military funeral for a true American hero is especially a very humbling experience. I’m sure all present felt a sincere and individual sense of loss, yet honored to be witness to this final tribute to William R. Charette.Thanks to the USSVI members that could attend. Sea Poacher Base Commander, John E. Merrill, Seadragon Base Commander Ivan L. Joslin, along with several base members and yours truly. Sailor, rest your oar. Bill Andrea, ESRD William R. Charette's official Medal of Honor citation reads:For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces during the early morning hours. Participating in a fierce encounter with a cleverly concealed and well-entrenched enemy force occupying positions on a vital and bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, HC3c. Charette repeatedly and unhesitat-ingly moved about through a murderous barrage of hostile small-arms and mortar fire to render assistance to his wounded comrades. When an enemy grenade landed within a few feet of a marine he was attending, he immediately threw himself upon the stricken man and absorbed the entire concussion of the deadly missile with his body. Although sustaining painful facial wounds, and undergoing shock from the intensity of the blast which ripped the helmet and medical aid kit from his person, HC3c. Charette resourcefully improvised emergency bandages by tearing off part of his clothing, and gallantly continued to administer medical aid to the wounded in his own unit and to those in adjacent platoon areas as well. Observing a seriously wounded comrade whose armored vest had been torn from his body by the blast from an exploding shell, he selflessly removed his own battle vest and placed it upon the helpless man although fully aware of the added jeopardy to himself. Moving to the side of another casualty who was suffering excruciating pain from a serious leg wound, HC3c. Charette stood upright in the trench line and exposed himself to a deadly hail of enemy fire in order to lend more effective aid to the victim and to alleviate his anguish while being removed to a position of safety. By his indomitable courage and inspiring efforts in behalf of his wounded comrades, HC3c. Charette was directly responsible for saving many lives. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.[3]


Kap(SS) 4 Kid(SS)

Redfish Base Slidell LA

Scorpion Base Sioux Falls SD

Tom Woodhouse, Past Commander of Peoria Base USSVI is a regular volunteer at St. Francis Children's Hospital in Peoria, IL. These pic-tures were taken Dec. 21, 2011. Tom visits between 7 and 10 kids every Wed.

Peoria Base Weekly visits

March 30, 2012The USS Scorpion Base SS-278 based in Sioux Falls, SD hosted their first Kaps 4 Kids event! Sanford’s Children’s Castle of Care Hospital is where sick and injured children find inspiration, imagination and play to be as important to healing as our leading technol-ogy, breakthrough research and advanced medicine.So who has bigger imaginations and play than submarine sailors? At their annual fundraiser, base members met with dozens of children and their parents and asked the kids if they wanted to become “Honorary Subma-riners”. Many accepted and were honored for their bravery in facing their challenges ahead as we presented 30 kaps and certificates to these young children. We were truly honored to be a part of their lives for just a short time and hopeful bring them something they will remember for a long time! Along with Kaps 4 Kids Committee Chairman Al Small were Base Commander Gerold Davey, Jim Farquhar, Roger Zarn, Dan Anderson, Dean Deuel, Tim Madden, Mike Neuroth, Brian Schnurr and Kent Winter.

James Conner with Martin Stokes of the Redfish Base.

Abya Washington with her father, Derrick Washington and Cathy Waters and Ron Sorjonen of the Redfish Base.

Young Cancer Patients Made Honorary Submariners at Kids Cancer Center OpeningUnited States Submarine Veterans Inc., South Florida Base, honored young cancer patients and volunteers Sunday, April 1, to celebrate the grand opening of the Kids Cancer Center on the grounds of Palms West Hospital. Bob Chambers, the organization’s Commander, and Keith Reynolds, Vice Commander, presented U.S. Navy caps to 15 young patients and proclaimed them honorary submariners. This event was a part of the U.S. Sub Vets Inc. “KAPSS 4 KIDSS” outreach program. The new Kids Cancer Foundation Cancer Cen-ter on the grounds of Palms West Hospital includes a research library, computer center, educational resources, financial counseling, nutrition direction, classrooms, health and wellness therapy, a teen lounge, playroom, arts center, and an administration office. The Submarine Veterans organization is open to all qualified U.S. submarine veterans. Contact information for the South Florida base can be obtained at USSVI.org

South Florida Base

Ahnia Mitchell with Enola Stokes, As-sociate Member of the Redfish Base. Ahnia had a liver transplant.

American Submariner

Thank you for your Service and Sacrifice.

ETERNAL PATROL PREPARATIONS

Shipmates, while we hope your day and those of your shipmates is far off in the future, we must nevertheless prepare. Please copy this notice and place it with your will or important papers. IMPORTANT In the case of my death, please immediately notify the U.S. Submarine Veterans Inc., (USSVI) at 877-542-3483 or 360-337-2978 and give the person on duty the information regarding my death, funeral, and burial arrangements, plus who they can contact for follow-up and support. Please ask them to contact my local chapter’s Base Com-mander with this information as well (they can look it up in their membership records). This information can alternatively be E-Mailed to the National Office at [email protected]. We ask you to do this because we have had many members pass away and for some, months & sometimes years, pass before your shipmates in USSVI hear about it. I think we probably are still carrying some deceased LIFE or HOLLAND CLUB members on our membership rolls and we do want to properly honor all those who leave us for their Eternal Patrol. If you have internet capabilities, there is excellent information booklet for your next of kin online at http://www.ussvi.org/Docu-ment_List.asp Open the “Shipmates Helping Shipmates” PDF, print it out, fill in what is needed and keep it with your important papers. It will be of great help to your survivors when that sad day comes, as it must. If you do not have internet access, contact your local Base Chaplain or the National Office at 877-542-3483 to get a copy.

ETERNAL PATROL NOTICES

Legacy GiftingShipmates, While we still can, each of us must decide how to distribute our assets after we depart on our eternal patrol, else ‘the state’ gets to decide for us... Consider this. A growing number of our members are including USSVI or our Subvet Charitable Foundation in their wills; a gift of kindness and generosity that we all very much appreciate. They will not be forgotten so long as USSVI is alive and well. If you are, or have, included USSVI or USSVCF in your will, please let

the Natl Office know about it. (Fred Borgmann at [email protected] or 877-542-3483) The Natl Office does not need all the nitty gritty details now, but it would be helpful for us to know who and how to contact when the time comes. Want to make a contribution now? Whether you are a first time donor or are renewing your generous support of the Subvet Charitable Foundation, online giving through our secure “Just Give” website is a safe and easy way to make your donation.

Shipmate Donald Ingvald Andersen of San Diego, CA,qualified in USS Ronquil in 1960 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/25/2012.

Shipmate Charles Robert Andrews of Albuquerque, NM, qualified in USS Redfish in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/14/2012.

Shipmate Joseph Bender, Jr. of Clin-ton Twp, MI,qualified in USS Billfish in 1943 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/10/2012.

Shipmate Jack Rudolph Bertram of Sonoma, CA, qualified in USS Chivo in 1961 departed on Eternal Patrol on 9/15/2009.

Shipmate Richard G. Binkley of Flor-ence, SC, qualified in USS Segundo in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/19/2012.

Shipmate Robert N. Boozenny of Vancouver, WA,qualified in USS Barbel in 1965 departed on Eternal Patrol on 10/27/2011.

Shipmate Gerald L. Bowes of Onalaska, WI,qualified in USS Dogfish in 1950 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/15/2012.

Shipmate Kenneth Raymond Brown of Honolulu, HI, qualified in USS Rasher in 1957 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/6/2012.

Shipmate Stuart J. Brown of Ledyard, CT, qualified in USS Robert E Lee in 1967 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/17/2012.

Shipmate Thomas H. Bryson of Bremerton, WA,qualified in USS Andrew Jackson in 1964 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/17/2012.

Shipmate Michael J. Burns of Hen-derson, NV, qualified in USS Pickerel iin 1959 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/20/2012.

Shipmate Charles Edward Butler of Allentown, PA,qualified in USS Becuna in 1948 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/10/2012.

Shipmate Thomas J Calabrese of Hilo, HI, qualified in USS Piper in 1963 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/7/2012.

Shipmate Donald C Call of Pensaco-la, FL,qualified in USS Cusk in 1954

departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/19/2012.

Shipmate David Carpenter of Flagstaff, AZ, qualified in USS Menhaden in 1962 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/10/2012.

Shipmate William R Charette of Lake Wales, FL,qualified in USS Quillback in 1958 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/19/2012.

Shipmate Nicholas Constantine Christodoulou, Jr of Nashville, TN, qualified in USS Scabbardfish in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/7/2012.

Shipmate Bernard Roy Conner of Rogers, MN, qualified in USS Hackleback in 1945 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/1/2012.

Shipmate Clarence G Cooper of Virginia Beach, VA, qualified in USS Perch in 1953 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/29/2012.

Shipmate Edward Thomas Corack of Merritt Island, FL, qualified in USS Harder in 1942 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/21/2012.

Shipmate Alexander Moseley Drewry of Norfolk, VA, qualified in USS Rasher in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/28/2012.

Shipmate John Wayne Dubois of Freehold, NJ, qualified in USS Salmon in 1967 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/22/2012.

Shipmate Robert S. Dwinell of Vallejo, CA, qualified in USS Cu-bera in 1953 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/20/2012.

Shipmate Herbert Kellam Elling-wood of Satellite Beach, FL, qualified in USS Balao in 1953 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/1/2012.

Shipmate Richard Ellsworth of Okeechobee, FL, qualified in USS Cubera in 1964 departed on Eter-nal Patrol on 3/14/2012.

Shipmate Karl Lee Evans of Springfield, TN, qualified in USS Porpoise in 1945 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/7/2012.

Shipmate Richard E. Ferris of Rockport, TX, qualified in USS


Eternal Patrol cont.

Rest your oars Sailor - rest in peace...

Sea Poacher in 1947 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/16/2012.

Shipmate Michael H Frasl of Fort Ann, NY,qualified in USS Entem-edor in 1963 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/31/2012.

Shipmate Walter Aloise Gallie of Ft. Washington, MD, qualified in USS Bergall in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 10/25/2011.

Shipmate John Read Gwyer of Wells, ME, qualified in USS Blue-gill in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/2/2012.

Shipmate Douglas Eugene Hale of Whites Lakes NS Canada, WI, qualified in USS Becuna in 1956 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/8/2012.

Shipmate Edward Joseph Hawkins of Sun City, AZ, qualified in USS Carbonero in 1951 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/5/2012.

Shipmate Alexander J Hecker of Tamarac, FL, qualified in USS Cobia in 1952 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/25/2012.

Shipmate Robert B Herzog of Perry, OH, qualified in USS Bang in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/14/2012.

Shipmate Caspar Wistar Hiatt of Port Townsend, WA, qualified in USS Gunnel in 1946 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/23/2012.

Shipmate Harry J. Hirt of Mari-copa, AZ, qualified in USS Sterlet in 1963 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/21/2012.

Shipmate Orem N. Hyde of New-ington, CT, qualified in USS Balao in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/19/2012.

Shipmate John Louis Juszkiewicz of North Ridgeville, OH, qualified in USS Catfish in 1960 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/9/2012.

Shipmate Earl Gilbert Kamens of Panama City Beach, FL,qualified in USS Amberjack in 1950 depart-ed on Eternal Patrol on3/12/2012.

Shipmate John Anthony Kass of Vista, CA,qualified in USS Amber-jack in 1965 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/16/2012.

Shipmate Martin C. Kichar of Beacon Falls, CT, qualified in

USS Bluegill in 1960 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/3/2012.

Shipmate Eric P. Kindwall, MD of Brookfield, WI,qualified in USS Robert E Lee in 1967 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/18/2012.

Shipmate Gary N. Kinnaman of Grenola, KS,qualified in USS Charr in 1953 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/20/2012.

Shipmate Jack M. Kordes of Meadville, PA, qualified in USS Sea Robin in 1964 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/3/2012.

Shipmate James Louis Larsen of Bellows Falls, VT,qualified in USS Crevalle in 1944 departed on Eter-nal Patrol on 4/8/2012.

Shipmate John W Lee of San An-tonio, TX, qualified in USS Balao in 1943 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/11/2012.

Shipmate Peter N Lober of Green-ville, MI, qualified in USS Sea Wolf in 1941 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/10/2012.

Sh ipmate Rona ld An thony MacPherson, Sr of Harvey, LA, qualified in USS Balao in 1958 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/7/2012.

Shipmate Eugene Ives Malone of Concord, CA,qualified in USS S-31 in 1943 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/24/2012.

Shipmate Robert C McClain of Longwood, FL, qualified in USS Tusk in 1960 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/7/2012.

Shipmate John F. McCue, Jr. of Santa Ana, CA,qualified in USS Sargo in 1966 departed on Eternal Patrol on 5/23/2010.

Shipmate John McNally of Atkin-son, NH, qualified in USS Sealion in 1953 departed on Eternal Patrol on 7/11/2011.

Shipmate Harold L. Meeker of Grinnell, IA, qualified in USS Cor-sair in 1948 departed on Eternal Patrol on 11/5/2011.

Shipmate Darrell Elroy Meinke of Welaka, FL, qualified in USS Spearfish in 1943 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/6/2012.

Shipmate Harold L Melges of Mt. Morris, IL, qualified in USS Sea Fox in 1963 departed on Eternal

Patrol on 2/5/2012.

Shipmate Harry Charles Mellon of Bakersfield, CA, qualified in USS Bumper in 1945 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/1/2012.

Shipmate Earl Norton Oster, Jr. of Beaumont, TX, qualified in USS Piper in 1963 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/6/2012.

Shipmate Robert J. Pollard of Po-catello, ID, qualified in USS Redfish in 1956 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/15/2012.

Shipmate John M Powers of Dux-bury, MA, qualified in USS Atule in 1955 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/21/2012.

Shipmate Gerald E. Puls of Pueblo, CO, qualified in USS Cachalot (was V-8) in 1945 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/18/2012.

Shipmate Thomas G Rice of Mill Creek, WA,qualified in USS S-23 in 1935 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/10/2012.

Shipmate Louis Charles Robert of North Bellmore, NY, qualified in USS Tench in 1952 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/25/2012.

Shipmate Richard E. Saleh of Big River, CA, qualified in USS Queen-fish in 1955 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/29/2012.

Shipmate Charles R Schofield of Le-dyard, CT, qualified in USS Trigger in 1958 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/8/2012.

Shipmate Dale V Scott of Moline, IL, qualified in USS Tinosa in 1945 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/24/2012.

Shipmate Irvin L. Searl of Nashua, NH, qualified in USS Trout in 1952 departed on Eternal Patrol on 7/16/2011.

Shipmate Philip M Shimnoski of Wellston, MI, qualified in USS Men-haden in 1961 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/13/2012.

Shipmate Charles George Simmons of Lakeville, MA, qualified in USS Angler in 1943 departed on Eternal Patrol on 12/23/2011.

Shipmate George Hugh Smith of Media, PA, qualified in USS Pompon in 1943 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/15/2012.

Shipmate Elvin B. Standrich of Summerville, SC, qualified in USS Swordfish in 1969 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/20/2012.

Shipmate Glen F Stinson of Platte City, MO, qualified in USS O-2 in 1943 departed on Eternal Patrol on 7/1/2003.

Shipmate John C Taylor of Venus, TX,qualified in USS Odax in 1961 departed on Eternal Patrol on 12/22/2006.

Associate Joyce Terry of Torrance, CA, departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/29/2012.

Shipmate John Hartwell Thode of Redding, CA, qualified in USS Ti-grone in 1944 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/9/2012.

Shipmate Thomas W. Thompson of Tucson, AZ, qualified in USS Carbonero in 1949 departed on Eternal Patrol on 8/4/2011.

Shipmate Keith Marvin Tracy of West Valley City, UT,qualified in USS Pickerel in 1959 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/8/2012.

Shipmate John L. Turner of Ma-chesney Park, IL, qualified in USS Besugo in 1953 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/16/2012.

Shipmate Richard Weckwerth of Uncasville, CT, qualified in USS Scabbardfish in 1950 departed on Eternal Patrol on 1/21/2012.

Shipmate Robert C. Welsh of Port Orchard, WA, qualified in USS Sculpin in 1969 departed on Eternal Patrol on1/3/2011.

Shipmate Ralph H. Wiley of Santa Maria, CA, qualified in USS Piper in 1966 departed on Eternal Patrol on 2/3/2012.

Shipmate Robert H. Winburn of LaGrange, KY, qualified in USS Sea Cat in 1959 departed on Eternal Patrol on 3/9/2012.

Shipmate Reuben Farrior Woodall of Annapolis, MD, qualified in USS Tarpon in 1943 departed on Eter-nal Patrol on 3/4/2012.

Shipmate John C. Woods of Ker-rville, TX, qualified in USS Pintado in 1971 departed on Eternal Patrol on 4/3/2012.

American Submariner American Submariner

Meet the Candidates...

I was one of the charter members of the USS Razorback base and served as its first and second year Base Commander. I also served as base Membership chairman for 4 years, base Storekeeper for 3 years and I’m current serving as the base Chaplain (holding that position for the past 3 years). I layed a small part in helping to get the USS Razorback SS 394 to North Little Rock, Arkansas.I was Memorial and Ceremonies Chairman appointed by the National Commander for nearly 3 years. Part of that job was to approve and authorize the treasurer of the Charitable Foundation to provide payments as required for the erection of new memorials. An update to the M&C handbook for requirements for bases to erect a memorial was accomplished while I was M&C chairman. I served as Central District One Commander on (2) different occasions for three years and was voted the USSVI District Commander of the year in 2007.I have served as Regional Director for (4) years and was a voting member of the USSVI board which gave me exposure to the working aspects of the national board. I managed the budget and travel funds for the Central region (4) district commanders and 3 Vice District Commanders. I received the National Commander’s Robert Link award in 2009. One of my most rewarding positions in USSVI has been serving as USSVI National Chaplain since 2010. The USSVI Chaplain manual revision was placed on the USSVI website in July 2011. Nearly $2,800.00 has been generated from the sale of the USSVI Chaplain Card and placed in the USSVI general fund .Prior to deciding to run for NSVC I reviewed the requirements to serve in this position. I served on the committee that updated the USSVI Constitution and Bylaws. This provided me with additional knowledge in helping to understand our organization. In the position of USSVI National Senior Vice Commander I will be responsible for preparing the USSVI Annual budget. Expending the money you invested in USSVI must and will be used wisely to better benefit the USSVI membership and its goals. To me this is something extremely important. If elected I will serve as Ways and Means Chairman, I will immediately appoint a long range planning committee. It is extremely important to es-tablish both short and long range goals for USSVI. Your vote will be important for all the candidates listed on the USSVI ballot. I need your support and hope you will vote for me in 2012 to become the next National Senior Vice Commander. I can only promise you one thing if elected, the time I spend will be devoted toward better serving the membership of USSVI. I will work to continue to improve our organization by bringing experience and continuity to the position National Senior Vice Com-mander. The experience gained serving USSVI over the years, has helped to prepare me to be the next National Senior Vice Commander. Remember your vote is important in USSVI.Pride Runs Deep, Carl Schmidt, National Chaplain USSVI

National Commander

Shipmates,Thank you for your support and contributions, financially, and more importantly, for the time you have spent to improve your Base and USSVI.My reason in asking for your vote and support in 2012 is to continue the direction and efforts that we have been taking these past two years. They include;Improving our Conventions by making them more member and vendor friendly; Maintaining our War Veterans Status to continue to allow your Base to receive Tax Deductible donations for your Base projects; Decentralizing the National structure so that your Base directly receives the properly deserved credit and recognition in your local community that enables you to gain more members and thereby add to our purpose in support of the US Submarine Force and its legacy.Promoting USSVI on a national level with increasing media exposure and community cooperation to enhance public awareness of the existence and purpose of our organization I never forget that I work for you. Working together, we all win.Best,MichaelT Michael Bircumshaw USSVI National Commander 2010-2012

National Senior Vice Commander

William (Bill) Andrea Southeast Regional Director Candidate for National Senior Vice CommanderI originally joined USSVI in 1964 as a Founding Member and became a Life member in 1998. Because of my long and varied service to my USSVI shipmates, I am pleased to announce my candidacy for the office of National Senior Vice Commander. I currently serve as the Southeast Regional Director, Chairman of the New Base Development, and South Florida Base Treasurer. I have also served my Base as Base Cdr, Vice Cdr, POC, Secretary, Membership Chair, Newspaper Editor and Bagpiper. Since joining USSVI, I have continuously strived to better myself and USSVI by assuming leadership positions. I have found that the more effort and work you put into any project, be it an organization or any other endeavor you may tackle in life, the more you will get out of that endeavor or organization. As your Senior Vice Commander, I will work with the other National Officers for the betterment of the organization and membership. In addition to perpetuating the memory of our departed shipmates, one of the main functions of USSVI is to promote brotherhood and fellowship among our fellow Submariners. When we stop having a good time, we will cease to exist. I will work towards this goal by insuring USSVI runs as smoothly as possible. I am totally devoted to the USSVI Creed and will carry out the duties of National Senior Vice Commander to the best of my ability and will strive to improve our organization.Sincerely,William (Bill) Andrea, ESRD


Tom is a candidate for National Secretary. He currently serves as National Secretary. Tom served in Submarines from 1966 to 1973. After leaving the Navy, he earned both Bachelors and Masters Degrees. He has been a member of United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. since 1982. He is a founding member of New Jersey North Base.Tom has held numer-ous offices within United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. at both the local and national level. These offices include: NJ North Base Commander (1982 to 1986); NJ State Commander (1986 to 1988); NJ North Base Newsletter Editor;Tom has served on the National Board of Directors since 1998. He has served as National Secrtary (1998 to 2002); National Senior Vice-Commander (2002 to 2004); National Commander (2004 to 2008). He currently serves as National Secre-tary. Tom is also a member of the Board of Directors of the USS LING Submarine Memorial Association in Hackensack, NJ. He serves as Secretary for the Board of Directors.During his first tenure as National Secretary, Tom reorganized the office of National Secretary, where he computerized much of that office’s functions. He established new procedures for tallying the votes in National Elections. In an effort to streamline the Annual Business Meetings, he established changes in the format and distribution of the agenda package. As National Senior Vice-Commander, Tom served on the committee to select recipients for our National Scholarships. He says that he enjoyed that task because he had the opportunity to assist worthy college and high school students attain the goal of a college education.As National Commander, Tom participated in many Base visits and activities throughout the country. He also required the members of the national Board of Directors to be more active in visiting Bases and participating in their activities. He believes that he was able to “personalize” the Board of Directors, rather than being “just pictures in The American Submariner” that no one knows personally.

National Secretary

For all USSVI Members I offer the following information for your review and consideration, and ask, if you feel that I can complete the tasks of this office as outlined in USSVI’s By-laws, then I would appreciate your vote of confidence.1. I joined USSVI San Diego Base in October 1993; this represents 19 years of continuous membership in USSVI.2. February 2004, I was one of the founding members of the Scamp Base, Escondido, CA and was elected as the Bases first Jr. Vice Commander. Established and Chaired KAP(SS) 4 KID(SS) program for the Scamp Base until March 2012, at which time I resigned due to time restraints.3. Served 2 years as Scamp Base Commander.4. As Scamp Base Commander I Co-Chaired with San Diego Base the planning and execution of the USSVI 2009 Na-tional Convention in San Diego, CA5. 2011 two significant events occurred, a. I was honored as being the Recipient of the 2011 Silver Anchor Award.b. I was elected as Western Region District 6 Commander6. As District 6 Commander I started the New Doug Smay Base at Naval Base Pt. Loma (known to us old timers as the

Sub Base or Ballast Point). The inaugural meeting was held in February 2012, with a membership of 33, 4 of which are Active Duty guys. And the meetings are held in conjunction with the San Diego Chapter WW II Shipmates.7. I am a member of the Holland Club I support the USSVI CREED, and believe that the future is growth, and forward movement, and believe I have exhibited this through my activities as a Member of USSVI. Pride Does Run Deep. Les Heiselt

Shipmates: I am running for a second term as NJVC.I am Past Base Commander of Albany-Saratoga Base and helped to put on the 2004 USSVI Convention. I am a Past Eastern Region District 5 Commander and I have been a member of theE-Board for 7 years. I served as a 2 term National Secretary and during my two terms I saved USSVI thousands of dollars on printing costs for conventions and meetings by having the members print their own agendas. I have kept our documentation up to date, chartered many new bases and many of you know me as “Al the answer guy” for my quick and courteous response to your questions via phone calls or E-Mails. I also was responsible for putting into place our present online voting system.During my term as NJVC I worked with numerous members and bases on TOOLs trainingand access, our 2014 50th Anniversary Initiative in Washington, DC, worked on keeping our membership strong, and took part in all our E-Board meetings. If I am reelected as NJVC I will continue to improve our membership and training, and make USSVI the best it can be. The most important thing you can do as a member is VOTE in

the upcoming elections for the candidate of your choice and read and Vote on the Proposed Amendments for our Constitution and Bylaws. Remember your Vote is your VOICE in USSVI issues and leadership.Pride Runs Deep,Al Singleman, Jr. NJVC

National Junior Vice Commander

To help answer the question “why should I chose John Clear for our USSVI National Secretary?” let me offer the follow-ing; (1) I do not believe in “politics as usual”. Twenty years ago I was a Hawaii State, Presidential Campaign Chairman with 25,000 volunteers to work with, we made a difference then and I know first hand what “positive change” is versus “business as usual”! (2) I do NOT believe in simply occupying a chair and filling space, my time is as valuable to me as it is to you. (3) In taking on this position of National Secretary I would do so with the understanding that I WILL help our organization more so than by simply doing what is required – I will work toward making USSVI better in this capacity and take on whatever is asked of me to the best of my abilities. (4) I BELIEVE in our USSVI creed and vision, I will work with that goal constantly in mind.When we all received our dolphins it was because we had met “the challenge” and proved our worth to our fellow shipmates, in taking on this challenge, I will treat it with the same honor that I felt when my dolphins were pinned on over 50 years ago.

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! The 2012 Convention is for everyone’s benefit...


JOHN G. MANSFIELD, JR. Western District 41960 Entered US Navy, Radio “A” School, NAVCOMMSTA Guam 1963 Submarine School1964 Qualified on board USS Menhaden (SS377) RM2(SS) 1966-1992 Federal Communications Officer, nine years on overseas assignments. 1972-1975 BA in Communications from the University of Puget Sound (Tacoma, WA)1988 Associate Member of US Submarine Veterans of WWII Lockwood Chapter (WA) 1989 USSVI member MAL 1996 – Present, Reunion Coordinator for 3-Boat Association (Darter, Dace, Menhaden) 1997 Author & Publisher of “Cruisers for Breakfast: War Patrols of the USS Darter & USS Dace 1998 Seattle Base Secretary, four years 2002-Present - Founder and two term Base Commander of South Sound Base, held posi-tions as COB, Secretary, Newsletter Editor, Storekeeper, Kap(ss) 4 Kid(ss) Chairman, arranged seven visits and tours of Naval Base Kitsap submarines and facilities 2009 Appointed WRD4 CommanderAwarded USSVI District Commander of the Year 2009 Helped establish two new Bases in District 4 (Olympic Peninsula & Silent Service Motorcycle Club Internet Base) Guest speaking engagements at local veterans groups, high schools, an elementary school dedication and Trident Training Facility graduating class of radiomen. Jr Vice, Sr Vice and Post Commander, VFW Post 969 (Tacoma, WA)Jr Vice, Sr Vice and District 3 Commander (WA) VFWTrustee and Veterans Committee, Puyallup Elks Lodge President Mt Rainier Lions ClubHas been a member of the Demonos Car Club (Tacoma, WA) since 1958 Member of Mayor of Tacoma’s Homeless Veterans Task Force Member of Auburn (WA) Veterans Parade CommitteeRespectfully submitted John G Mansfield, Jr. WRD4 Commander, USSVI

Subject: Acceptance of NominationIt is with honor that, if so elected, I accept and agree to serve as Southeast Region Director (SERD). By so choosing, it is my desire to utilize my experience and the successes as District CDR of old ED3, now SED1, to enhance the camaraderie, participation and spirit of the SE Region. I have chartered 8 new bases, and seen a factor of 2 membership growth. I have served as a District CDR for over 7 years.The SED1 Bases and members continue to be well recognized and the recipientsof many Awards and presentations. The upcoming 2012 Nat’l Convention serves as a model of co-operation and success within the District as all District Bases are participating as volunteers to the host base. I was successful in establishing USSVIas a major sponsor of the SubForce Sailor of the Year program and created the SubLant Runners-up monetary awards provided by the District Bases, as well as selected by SubLant FORCM to sit on the selection Board 3 times. I am the recipient of the Robert Link Award, District CDR of the Year twice and most recently the Joe Negri award.

Richard McPherson, LCDR, US Navy (retired)I am running for the office of National Treasurer. I am a Life Member of United States Submarine Veterans Inc (USSVI), and currently serve as the Base Commander of the USSVI Los Angeles - Pasadena Base and President of the World War II Sub Vets, Los Angeles

Chapter. Additionally, I am a Life Member of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). I served in the Navy from 1963 until my retirement in November 1983. I served aboard the Stonewall Jackson, Nathan Hale, Dixie, and Dixon added to which were staff jobs at SUBRON 15, CONCRUDESPAC, CINCPACFLT, and the IINSURV Board. My formal education includes all of required CPA courses except the single semester computer course while enrolled in a PhD Program in Finance at National University in San Diego, California, when I decided on a career shift. My combined education and experience has me accredited as a California and Utah state court qualified expert in complex cases including financials and contracts. In 1993 I was elected as Managing Director of GoodSmith & Co., Incorporated. I look forward to working with the other elected national officers of United States Submarine Veterans Inc., to serve our members and help grow the organization. I have the time, interest and dedication to USSVI and the members of USSVI.

James E. Van Vranken I graduated from High School in 1957. I joined the Navy March 1958. Boot Camp and Electricians Mate “A” School in San Diego and then off to Submarine School. I reported aboard the USS Wahoo (SS 565) in Pearl Harbor and qual- i-fied in September 1959. I served on 3 other diesel submarines. I graduated from Modesto Junior College June of 1976 with an AS. I joined the USSVI in March of 1999. I have taken a few computer classes and have used Quicken and Micro Soft Excel for taxes and for keeping track of 3 different sets of storekeeper books for 2 submarines & the Wahoo Base. I decided to run for the National Office of Treasurer a couple of days ago when I heard that no one had been nominated for the office. I emailed Pat Householder saying that I would do the job if no one else would. He replied that someone else had been nominated but said run anyway as two on the ballot is an election one is a coronation. Am I qualified for the Office of National Treasure? Yes, because there are no qualifications for this office listed in our by-laws.

National Treasurer

Hello shipmates, I’m writing to inform you that I am running for the Western Region Director. I want to be your representative on the USSVI E-board to ensure that your concerns and suggestions are brought to the attention of the people that have the power and potential to carry them out or make whatever changes are required to make them work for all of us. We need to

assist Mike Bircumshaw in attaining the goals he has set for himself and USSVI during his term as our National Commander. Mike and I have always had an excellent working relationship and will continue to do all we can to make USSVI an organization that you will be proud to say you are a member. I hope you will see fit to vote for me.Take care,Robert J. (Bob) MillerUS Submarine Veterans Inc.PAST Western Region District 6 [email protected]


USSVI CR Shipmates – Allow me to introduce myself, I am Ken Recoy, and I’m running for the Central Regional Director position. I was born and raised in Creston, Iowa, graduated HS from Altamont, Kansas, and have lived in Oklahoma. I qualified on the USS Threadfin SS-410

in 1972, and I made 3 Patrols on the USS Nathanael Greene SSBN636. I was a Radioman and US Navy Diver. My Masters Degree is from Oklahoma State University. I am the Past Central Region District One Commander, and I’m a Past USS Batfish SS-310 Base Commander, Secretary, News Letter Editor, Chairman of the Batfish Board of Trustees and the current Batfish Treasurer and POC. My wife Patricia of 32 years and I are proud parents of 6 grown children and 9 grandchildren.As the Past CR District One Commander I worked closely with our dedicated Base leadership, increasing member-ship and was involved in the beginning stages of several ongoing successful projects.I am passionately interested in seeing our Organization prosper and “Honor Those That Have Gone Before.”Today is a new day, let’s work together and move forward! Cell phone 620-305-9900, [email protected] . I humbly ask for your vote. Fraternally yours, Ken Recoy

WAYNE STANDERFER CANDIDATE FOR CENTRAL REGION DIRECTOR (INCUMBENT)I would like to announce my candidacy for re-election as Central Region Director. I enlisted in the Navy in 1956. Qualified on the USS Trig-ger SS564 in 1958 Served on the USS Trout SS566. Company Commander at Great Lakes Training Center – Pushed 5 CompaniesHonorably discharged in 1966 as a TM1(SS) Past Dallas Base Commander. Past Central Region District 4 Commander. Presently Central Region DirectorI have thoroughly enjoyed serving as your Central Region Director since taking office in September, 2010.Being able to travel and meet the members in our Region, helping with your needs and concerns as your voting representative on the National Executive Board and working to implement necessary and requested procedural changes has been a fulfilling experience. In addition to the above, my goals are to keep you informed with current information and procedure changes, supervise only when needed, be a mediator when the need arises and let the District Commanders and Base Commanders in our Region do their jobs with minimal interference from me. Being fully retired allows me to devote the time necessary to accomplish those goals. I take great pride in who we are, what we have done and what we will do as an organization. I ask for your support to continue offering whatever contributions I can make to maintain and improve on what we now have.Yours fraternally, Wayne Standerfer

Shipmates,Below are the proposed amendments to our Constitution and Bylaws that we are voting on this year. They address certain issues within the USSVI Constitution and Bylaws:• PA #1 amends USSVI Constitution Article VII. It addresses requirements and eligibility for Associate Members.• PA #2 amends USSVI Constitution Article I, Section 3 It addresses alternative names for the organization.• PA #3 amends USSVI Bylaws Article VII, Section 5. It addresses the biennial election of Regional Directors.• PA #4 amends USSVI Bylaws Article VI, Section 15. It addresses the Base Commanders Group.• PA #5 amends USSVI Bylaws Article VII. It addresses issues related to our biennial elections.• PA# 6 amends USSVI Bylaws Article VII, Clause B and Article VII, Section 1A. It addresses the procedure for submit-ting proposed amendments and the dates for submitting proposed amendments and nominations for national officers.• PA #7 amends USSVI Bylaws Article VII, Section 6. It addresses issues related to the biennial election of District Commanders including the requirements to run for the position.• PA #8 amends USSVI Bylaws Article VI, Section 14 and Article XI, Section 5. It addresses issues related to National Conventions.The changes are shown as follows: the wording/language to be changed or eliminated is shown with a “strikethrough;” the new wording/language is shown below the “strikethrough” passage(s).The Board of Directors urges you to carefully read and consider the proposed changes to the USSVI Constitution and By-laws. After you have read and considered the changes, please mark your changes accordingly on the paper ballot or the electronic ballot on the USSVI web site.

Proposed Change #2012-01 Change: Amend USSVI Constitution, Article VII – Membership to revise the requirements and eligibility for Associate Members. The existing Section 5 of this Article is totally replaced and Section 3 is adjusted accordingly as follows: Section 3: LIFE MEMBERS

Mike NaughtonCandidate for Eastern Region North Regional DirectorHello, my name is Mike Naughton and I’m running for the USSVI Eastern Region North Director position. Born and raised in Chicago, I joined the Submarine Reserve Unit there right out of high school. After four years reserve time, it was time to serve my two year active time. My plan then was to serve this short tour and be finished with my military obligation. Well 22 years later, I decided I didn’t want to make it a career. I started out as an E-3 unqualified undesignated reservist retiring as Navigation Officer Department Head at Dam Neck, VA, after serving on Diesel Boats and Boomers. For the past 10 to 15 years, I’ve been involved with the USSVI Capitol Base and recently I’ve been serving as the ERN District Four Commander. As your Regional Director, I will strive to increase the now strong two-way communications between the Dis-trict Commanders and the Regional Director…between National Officers and Base Commanders…between the Regional Director and the base members. I like USSVI and I’m enthusiastic to see it grow. With your vote, I hope to further its growth and to make it better.


A Regular and Associate Members may become Life Members by paying the National Life Membership Fee established in the Organization’s Bylaws.Section 5: ASSOCIATE MEMBERS A. An Associate Member is a person who is not eligible for regular membership but is sponsored by a Regular Member and meets one of the following requirements:a. A Regular Member may sponsor a family member (no limit) up to two degrees of consanguinity (blood line relation-ship) of a regular member, including adoptive children of the regular member. b. A Regular Member may sponsor one additional non-family related member for Associate Membership who has demonstrated a strong interest and support of the US Submarine Service by their deeds or actions and is at least sixteen years of age, subject to prior approval by the National Membership Chair.c. A Regular Member may also sponsor one additional non-family related U.S. Military service member, Active or Vet-eran, for Associate Membership, who has demonstrated a strong interest and support of the US Submarine Service by their deeds or actions, subject to prior approval by the National Membership Chair. If separated from service, it must have been under honorable circumstances.d. Some examples of interest and support: Submarine Book author, Sub Tender service, Intel Rider, Museum submarine docent, Submarine Historian or provides some other demonstrated service to advance the US Submarine force, subject to prior approval by the National Membership Chair.B. Each Associate Member must be continuously sponsored by a Regular Member in good standing.C. Associate Members are eligible for National and Base Annual Membership, and must also retain their membership in an established base to maintain their national USSVI membership. Member At Large status is not available to Associate members.D. Associate Members may vote on Base matters (if permitted by Base Bylaws) and may hold elective Base offices of Secretary and/or Treasurer (if permitted by Base Bylaws.) but are ineligible to vote in the National/Region elections and cannot hold National elected office.E. An Associate Member must have a Regular Member in good standing as a sponsor at all times to be a member of USSVI. In the event an Associate Member's sponsor cannot or will not continue to sponsor the Associate Member (i.e. the sponsor is transferred or leaves the organization), another Regular Member may assume sponsorship of the Associate Member. If no other member will assume the sponsorship, the Associate member will be dropped from membership. If the sponsoring member goes on Eternal Patrol, another Regular Member or the base itself may assume the sponsorship of the Associate Member, but if no other member or the Base will assume the sponsorship, the Associate member will be dropped from membership.F. If the Associate Member is the widow, widower, child or grand-child of a deceased Regular Member who was in good standing at the time of death, another regular member or the deceased member’s Base may automatically assume the sponsorship.G. Current Associate Members in good standing at the time of this section change are ‘grand-fathered,’ which means they will retain their membership status even though they may not meet the new requirements.Intent of the Author: Many Associate Members have no military duty background, however for IRS purposes they are counted as “members.” As such, Associates generally dilute overall percentages of “veterans” and of “war veterans” for USSVI. To help assure that USSVI retains its veteran and war veteran IRS tax status, the criteria for Associate Members has been updated and tightened. Further, a continuous sponsorship, e.g. “Sea Daddy,” within a Base is required and considered significant in furthering our Purpose/Creed. Finally, it is recognized that USSVI is the “United States” submarine veterans group, rather than an international organization, so all members should “Pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and its Constitution;” thus the exception for foreign nationals to pledge is deleted.Cost to the organization: NegligibleSubmitted by: Patrick Householder (in conjunction with Jim Hunnicutt regarding deletion of the exception of foreign nation-als pledging loyalty and patriotism) Proposed Change #2012-02Change: Amend USSVI Constitution, Article I, Section 3 regarding the use of alternative names for the organization. Article I with the proposed changes is as follows: ARTICLE I –NAMESection 1: The name of the organization shall be THE UNITED STATES SUBMARINE VETERANS, INC.Section 2: For the purpose of this Constitution the term “organization” shall be synonymous with “The United States Sub-marine Veterans, Inc.”.Section 3: The written and spoken name may be shortened to USSVI, USSVI, AMERICAN SUBMARINERS or SUBVETS. The Article 1, Section 1 full name shall be used in all official legal correspondence.Intent of the Author: The use of the word “Inc.” in the organizational name is unnecessary and has a negative connotation to some of our current and proposed membership. The use of the word “Veterans” in our organizational name also is an impediment in our efforts to recruit active service submarine personnel because most do not yet consider themselves vet-erans. This slight change allowing the permissive dropping of the “I” in USSVI and also the permissive use of “AMERICAN SUBMARINERS” as an alternative name will benefit our recruiting and retention efforts.Cost to the organization: NegligibleSubmitted by: Patrick Householder Proposed Change #2012-03Change: Amend USSVI Bylaws Article VII, Section 5: BIENNIAL ELECTION FOR REGIONAL DIRECTORS

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