Port of Official Publication of the Navy League of the , Pittsburgh Council

Jan., Feb., March 2020 Volume 24. No. 1 Edited by Katherine Kersten Website: navyleaguepittsburgh.org https://www.facebook.com/NavyLeaguePittsburgh/

Letter from the President Friends of the Sea Services: Last November I was approached by several members of your Leadership Team and asked if I was interested in serving as your President. Flattered at the time, I told them that I would seriously consider it, but that a final decision would require additional input and consideration in order to make an “informed decision”. It had been some time since I was an “active member” of the Pittsburgh Council and quite frankly was comfortable in my current retirement and needed some more information before I agreed. Following several weeks of considering the impact on the status quo, my attendance at the December meeting of the Board of Directors, The Navy League of the United States and my belief that I could be a positive Serving the Sea Services since 1902 contributor to the Council’s mission, I agreed to accept the offer and submit my name to the nominating committee. The result was a week- distilled the list to three individuals and three long campaign during which I ran unopposed, I groups that during my review reached out to me received what I will now consider a landslide to demand our collective thanks for a job “Well victory, delivering a mandate to move forward Done” They are as follows: serving the Sea Service community with the First, Bob MacPherson for his personal dedication and professionalism that is the dedication and sacrifice in providing exemplary hallmark of our Navy League Council. leadership in his three years as President. His Following the election, I was able to complete tireless efforts in providing support to the local a very informative turnover with Bob Sea Services are well known to all of you and he MacPherson, and while I am still wading can, and should, take deep personal pride in his through several boxes of files and on the front accomplishments. To Bob I add to the thanks slope of a steep learning curve, I formally you have already received, “Bravo Zulu”. relieved Bob on February 1st, and now find Furthermore, I consider myself fortunate that I myself composing my first “President’s Letter” will be able to count on your continued support. for the . Second, Polly Bozdech-Veater, Since thanking everyone who served the unquestionably the heart and soul of our Council with distinction over the three years of Council. Suffice it to say, until I was assured by Bob’s tenure is truly an impossible task, I Polly that she would continue to serve on the Port of Pittsburgh Patriotism and Gratitude Jan., Feb., March 2020 2.

Chapter’s Leadership Team in addition to her to our Sea Services. Therefore, just like I did national responsibilities, I did not agree to with the Leadership Team, I am personally assume the responsibilities as President. If there asking you for your continued support, and I were superlatives to Bravo Zulu for the support promise you I will work daily to earn it. and guidance she provides to our Council, I I would like to share with all of you my vision would be the first to haul up the pennants. of a challenging future. However, I am so far Third, John Caspero. John deserves a down the upslope of the learning curve, it is still distinguished service medal for his tenure as the tough to see over the top far enough to do so at USS Pittsburgh SSN-720 Relief Crew’s CO, as this time. I will share that I have developed an do all the Relief Crew CO’s that preceded him. outline of issues I believe we need to address in You will see much more of the Relief Crew’s the near term as we transition away from our accomplishments later in this newsletter. What support of the Pittsburgh and continue our I want to recognize John for is his efforts to support for the local active duty Sea Service assure a smooth shut down in the wake of the Commands. I will be reviewing this outline, ship’s Inactivation, and his agreement to along with the inputs I have sought from the continue to oversee the scholarship program Leadership Team members, at our next Board of which will survive the dissolution of the Relief Directors meeting. As a result, while it is Crew. John’s continued dedication to the premature to provide any details at this time as support of the USS Pittsburgh and our Council they do not exist. I will note, Membership and is most welcome. Fundraising will be high on the list of priorities. Now for the Groups: Other than that, I promise to provide much First, the Leadership Team of the Pittsburgh more detail in my next communication. Council. It quickly became evident to me at the In closing, let me say I consider it a great Board meeting I attended the essential roles honor to serve in the role as your President. I am each member had in managing our humbled by the trust you and the board has organization, and that the teamwork displayed placed in me. As I have often said, “The Navy has by every individual in executing their been very good to me in my life and I am proud responsibilities was outstanding. As a result, I of my Naval Service”. Therefore, I view it as only personally reached out to all of them asking that fitting that I do my best to give back when asked. they continue in their current positions as we It is with these thoughts that I ask for your continue to move forward and develop a long- continued support, and as I said earlier pledge term strategic plan for the Council. Having to work hard to earn it. received no resignations to date, I am looking Wishing you all, “Fair Winds and Following forward to moving forward with a truly Seas”, dedicated and professional staff. Tom Clark, Second, all current and former members of the President USS Pittsburgh SSN-720 Relief Crew. As a member of the community myself, I can assure you that there has never been a Pittsburgh Calendar of Events - 2020 relationship that comes close to the one built April CMU award ceremony TBA and sustained for over thirty-five years that May 24-25 Memorial Day, Elizabeth approaches that achieved by the Relief Crew. To June 10 Quarterly Newsletter deadline each one of you, I want to add my personal June 24-26 NLUS Annual Convention, thanks to those that you all have so justly Phoenix received over the years from the crew itself. To July-Sept. Quarterly Lunch with CO's, you as well, BRAVO ZULU. date TBA Third, to every member of the Pittsburgh Sept 10 Quarterly Newsletter deadline Council of the Navy League. You are the engine Sept. TBA VA Picnic that drives us and the only reason that we can Oct. 9 Navy Ball exist. Fundamentally, without you we could not Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day have achieved the excellent reputation of service Oct.-Dec. Quarterly Lunch with CO's, TBA Port of Pittsburgh Patriotism and Gratitude Jan., Feb., March 2020 3.

USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720) Greetings were also presented from U. S. Senator Pat Toomey, U. S. Representative Guy Inactivation Ceremony Reschenthaler, State Senator Kim Ward, and By Katherine Kersten State Representative Justin Walsh. On January 17, 2020 at the United States

Naval Undersea Museum in Keyport, WA, the Inactivation Ceremony in preparation for decommissioning of the USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720) was held. An informative, well-produced color Program was distributed to the audience. It contained many interesting facts about the ship, as well as a list of the crew, including their rank, division and their assignment. The 500 seat auditorium was filled to near capacity. As we entered the room, a large screen behind the stage ran a loop presentation of photos covering the history of the ship, including scenes of locations, crew, events and Bob MacPherson famous people, such as President George W. Bush, Pittsburgh Steeler Mel Blount, pictures of Next, Dr. Carol H. Sawyer, the ship Sponsor, Terrible Towels hoisted in celebration of Steeler spoke of her memories and close relationship victories, etc. with the ship. Her devotion is evident in the fact A Navy Band played music for the Ceremony. that she attended every one of the Change of Crew members were seated at House Left. The Command Ceremonies, as well as constant center section held honored guests, former contact with the Commanders and crews. Commanders of the Pittsburgh, their wives, members of the Relief Crew, USS Requin Pittsburgh Submarine Vets, representatives of various Pittsburgh businesses, and general seating. Also in attendance was Ms. Kathleen Kovalchik-Rietenour, who designed the patch/logo for the Pittsburgh while she was a student at a Pittsburgh Art Institute. The House Right was for Crew families and other guests. The Center Stage held two podiums, five chairs, and the Pittsburgh colors and commissioning pennant. LCDR Peter Gaal, XO, was the emcee for the Dr. Carol Sawyer Ceremony. After the Official Party arrived, the National Anthem was played, and the Pledge of A gift shadow box filled with Pittsburgh Allegiance was recited. LT David Tamburr gave memorabilia was presented to Dr. Sawyer by the Invocation. CDR Deichler. The actual bottle used in the CWO2 (Ret) Bob MacPherson, President of Christening Ceremony was on display, along the Pittsburgh Council, Navy League of the U.S., with two bottles of Iron City Beer, replicas of read a proclamation from Pittsburgh Mayor Bill those were smashed on the ship’s bow. Peduto, naming 1/17/20 as USS Pittsburgh Day.

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Ten of the 13 former Commanders of the Pittsburgh were present for the ceremony. All the 13 Commanding Officers were acknowledged by CDR Deichler. CAPT Raymond Setser, Jr. - 23 Nov 1985 – 17 Jan 1986; CDR Neil P. Walsh- 17 Jan 1986 – 29 Jul 1988; CDR Charles H. Griffiths, Jr. – 29 July 1988 – 18 Mar 1991; CDR W. Steven Wolff – 18 Mar 1991 – 30 Jul 1993; CDR James P. Adams II (Dec.) 30 Jul 1993 – 16 Feb 1996; CDR Chris Sullivan – 16 Feb 1996 – 29 Jan 1998; CDR Paul Christening Bottles Bushong – 29 Jun 1998 – 12 Mar 2001; CDR As a surprise for Dr. Sawyer, the video Jeffrey Currer – 12 March 2001 – 19 Sep 2003; recording of the Launching was shown. CDR David Hahn – 19 Sep 2003 – 05 Jan 2007; RADM Doug Perry, CDR, Submarine Group CDR Andy Jarrett – 05 Jan 2007 – 19 Jun 2009; Nine in Silverdale, WA spoke of his experiences CDR Michael K. Savageaux – 19 Jun 2009 – 26 serving aboard the Pittsburgh as Division Feb 2013; CDR William Solomon III – 26 Feb Officer, a Navy diver, and his relationship with 2013 – 06 Nov 2013; and CDR J. Neil Colston – CDR Deichler. His Naval assignments are 06 Nov 2015 – 12 Jan 2018. Jason Deichler, a numerous, varied and impressive. native of Pittsburgh, assumed command on 12 Ceremonial Inactivation Proceedings included Jan 2018. CAPT Paul Siegrist, in attendance, lowering the Colors and Commissioning pinned Deichler’s dolphins on him in 2002 and Pennant. These were secured in dedication to the two remained close throughout their the success of the ship and crew who sailed her. careers. The many accomplishments and awards of the ship were listed, including Meritorious Unit Commendations, Navy Unit Commendation for successfully launching Tomahawk land attack cruise missiles during Operation Desert Storm, Southwest Asia Service Medal. In her 35 year service record, a total of eight Meritorious Unit Commendations, two Navy Unit Commend- ations, two Armed Forces, one Battle E, two LOC and served in two campaigns. Most recently the ship left Groton, CT for a successful under the ice cap trip to Bremerton,

Colors being lowered WA, enduring 22 days without communication of any kind. After arriving at Bremerton, the CDR Jason Deichler, the 14th Commanding ship began the procedure for decommissioning Officer of the Pittsburgh, spoke eloquently to and is 30 days ahead of schedule, setting a new the audience of the bittersweet process of standard for inactivation completion. deactivation and decommissioning of this After the Benediction by LT Tamburr, the exceptional vessel. Here is the link to the Official Party departed, and the ceremony Program and his speech: ended with CDR Deichler directing the crew to http://www.navyleaguepittsburgh.org/ stand and raise and wave their Terrible Towels He honored the crew and their families for one final time. their service and devotion, as well as his wife, Michelle, their children, and family from Pittsburgh for their support and love. Port of Pittsburgh Patriotism and Gratitude Jan., Feb., March 2020 5.

Next door, in the Museum, a Reception was More Events held. Light refreshments and cake were offered. After the Ceremony a casual party was held at the Horse & Cow in Bremerton, WA. From 5 PM to ? The establishment featured a nautical theme and a large banner from the USS Pittsburgh was affixed to the wall. We were all encouraged to sign it and were promised it will remain there always. The atmosphere was joyous and friendly.

Barn Party 18 January 2020 Former and current crew members, family and friends attended the Barn Party, held at Kitsap County Fairgrounds & Events Center in Bremerton from 4 to 8 PM. A grill was fired up outside the large building Relief Crew CO CAPT (Ret) John Caspero to cook burgers and brats. In addition to all the presented CDR and Mrs. Deichler with an fixin’s, leftover cake from the Reception was engraved Wendell August tray depicting the also enjoyed. Pittsburgh Point scene, where our

The informal gathering included many of the guests from Pittsburgh, PA. Children ran and played games, displaying boundless energy.

This marked the last of the planned events held Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers merge to during the week. What wonderful memories we form the . have. While talking to a group of former sailors, I mentioned the story of one of the visits some of the crew made to Pittsburgh. While seeing some of the sights, they met a group of young ladies Editor’s Note: Look in the Feb-March issue who were having a Bachelorette Party. The of Seapower for a great article on the sailors were invited to join the ladies and Deactivation Ceremony in the Council experienced a personal limousine tour of our Digest section, page 40. fair City. To my surprise, one of the men said, “I can verify that story because I was one of the sailors”. What a surprise!

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Pittsburgh Council Propulsion Corporation and Carnegie Science Data supplied by John Caspero, Center/USS Requin. CO, Relief Crew Support On 19 April 1984, Secretary of the Navy John The people of Pittsburgh and the Relief Crew Lehman announced the name of the next Los have provided the following: Angeles class submarine would be USS  154 scholarships totaling $142,750 from Pittsburgh. Leadership for fund-raising for original funds, donations and proceeds launching and commissioning activities was from Kentucky Derby Parties hosted by assumed by the Navy League Pittsburgh Polly Bozdech-Veater Council, . From that time to now, an amazing  33 years of Christmas gifts for children of bond has developed between the city and the ship’s personnel ship. Pittsburgh is a city of hardworking,  23 golf tournaments organized by Don congenial people of genuinely warm character Elborne raised nearly $20,000 for and those same traits are found in the Officers Christmas gifts and parties for the and crew of the submarine. What a perfect children of the ship’s personnel match. (including hand-made golf clubs made by The USS Pittsburgh Coordinating Committee, Vic Hulina) led by John Van Huyck, Jim Winokur  18 doll houses and barns built by Lou (dec.) and Judy Nees (dec.) began fund Rourke and raffled off to the children of raising. More than $71,000 was raised to the ship’s personnel support the commissioning, including gifts to  Over 15 visits to Pittsburgh of over 350 the ship. Residual funds of approximately ship’s personnel, many of whom stayed $34,000 were placed in the Pittsburgh in the homes of Pittsburgh host families, Foundation to fund scholarships to the crew, supported in public by citizens buying and dependents. food and/or drink  Support for 14 Changes of Command including gifts and breakfasts for in- Relief Crew coming and out-going Commanders Jim Winokur initiated the concept of a  200 re-enlistment gifts for ship’s “Relief Crew” to support the USS Pittsburgh. He personnel served as the CO for nearly 20 years. The Relief  Annual Sailors of the Year recognition, Crew was established as part of the Pittsburgh including presentation of savings bonds Council. The following people have served as or cash gifts CO/XO: Dick Halleran, Frank Marsh (dec.),  More than 500 USS Pittsburgh ball caps Dick Survochak (dec.), Zoltan and Laurene provided for new ship’s personnel Kristoff, Polly Bozdech-Veater and John  “Where in the World is Pittsburgh Caspero. They have taken the lead for Today” a program established in Linton recruitment, fund-raising, link between the USS Middle School reaching over 700 Pittsburgh and the people of Pittsburgh, children which utilized Geography, organizing visits of ship’s personnel and Math, Science, Language Arts, and Home families and other activities. Economics to track the travels of USS Many people and companies have provided Pittsburgh. Laurene Kristoff directed assistance, including Bob (dec.) and Carol the program. Gates (dec.) , Bill Zaeh (dec.), Lou Rourke  12 half-way parties, numerous welcome (dec.), Dick and Judy Halleran, Karl and home parties and family picnics. Darlene Ludwig, Bill and Carol Braund,

Don Elborne, Vic Hulina, Don (dec.) and The USS Pittsburgh provided: Katherine Kersten, Electro-Mechanical Division of Curtiss-Wright (EMD), Bechtel  Visits and support to local commands, Plant Machinery, Inc. (BPMI), Bettis Marine including Navy Recruiting District, Port of Pittsburgh Patriotism and Gratitude Jan., Feb., March 2020 7.

NROTC, and Navy Operational Support left who was holding onto an extremely large red Center (NOSC) and white lever.  Support to local youth programs, including Starbase Atlantis, NJROTC, and Voyager Program  Civic pride projects, including visits to the USS Requin and the Veterans Administration Hospital  24 orientation rides by local Pittsburgh residents aboard the USS Pittsburgh, eight Tiger Cruises and numerous visits by the citizens of Pittsburgh  Visits to local industries supporting the submarine force  Participation in local events such as the Regatta’s “Anything That Floats Race”, the Great Race and Marathon. We had been told that when the clock reached the “magic moment” that very lever would be Summary engaged, and the PITTSBURGH would begin Over 34 years a mosaic of people from her slide into the Thames River – regardless of Pittsburgh have provided support to the people whether someone was still speaking, or the of the USS Pittsburgh. Each of the Commanding ceremony was still in progress. Being a tidal Officers, along with the ship’s personnel, has river, the Thames needed to be at sufficient become part of the “Pittsburgh Family” This depth to allow clearance for a successful launch. truly speaks to the unique and the special So, while the audience shivered but persevered relationship between a ship and its namesake in observing the speakers, etc., I sat spellbound city – a relationship certainly not seen before in watching a clock and praying that everything the annals of the U.S Navy. would go according to the timeline. Everything timed out perfectly and the christening/launch was spectacular!”

Launch Day Judy Halleran’s Reminiscence of the Launch Editor’s note: Judy served as Matron-of-Honor to Carol Sawyer at the Launch.

“I remember the very cold morning of December 8, 1984 and the motorcade to ride to the pier for the launch of USS PITTSBURGH. I was surprised to pass through a throng of ‘anti- whatever’ protesters and was glad to be in the safety of the limo. Once we arrived and exited the vehicle, we were ushered to our designated seats on the specially constructed platform; the sub was behind us and we sat facing the audience. What I remember most clearly from my vantage point was the very large clock facing Dick Halleran, President, Pittsburgh Council, NLUS, us but unseen by the audience. That clock was Judy Halleran, Carol Sawyer, and George Sawyer, counting down the minutes to high tide. There Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Shipbuilding and was a gentleman standing at ground level to our Logistics Port of Pittsburgh Patriotism and Gratitude Jan., Feb., March 2020 8.

“In the name of the United States, I christen Remembering December 8, 1984 thee Pittsburgh. May God bless her and all who By Dr. Carol H. Sawyer, Sponsor sail in her.” With those words, I swung the bottle, and YES! There is power and beauty in tradition.

For shipbuilders around the globe, tradition for centuries ensures new ships are named, blessed, and christened with wine before setting sail. This was the tradition for USS Pittsburgh, SSN 720, a fast attack submarine built by the Electric Boat Company, Groton, Connecticut. I had seen shipyard christenings in Connecticut and Virginia; I knew the significance of the bottle smashing and the importance of that ceremonial “smash”. I knew too that recently a previous sponsor in Groton was unable to break the bottle despite multiple blows against the bow! Mortification! The good people of the shipyard stressed how important it was to never have such a failure the bottle broke, and champagne splashed out in again. The bottle MUST break, the champagne a spraying arc, and the Navy Band struck up its MUST spray out against the boat! joyous music! Now, it is a secret that the shipyard has a spare bottle below; someone from the yard will smash that spare bottle if the sponsor’s attempt is unsuccessful. Certainly there is superstition at play, as well as tradition. In preparation for my traditional responsibility, I went to a bowling alley for a wooden bowling pin with which to practice my ceremonial swing; I practiced for three months! Christening morning was cold and clear, with a perfect blue sky, the excitement of a Navy Band, beautiful red-white-and-blue bunting everywhere, snapping in the breeze off the River Thames where the water sparkled with diamonds of bright sunlight. Family, friends, shipbuilders, sailors and officers, admirals and government officials, representatives of the dozens of manufacturers who crafted components of this sophisticated war ship----all the gathered audience huddled in their warmest December coats and hats. On the ship itself, awaiting its Big Moment to slide down the ways into the water (a true christening!), the crew in dress blue uniforms The Officers of the Submarine were lined up at attention.

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John Van Huyck stands alone as the submarine enters the Thames River.

And there was more to come as the sub slid backwards into the even more exposed channel. The waiting tugs did a magnificent job in catching us and getting us ashore. To paraphrase a Winston Churchill speech Crew of the Submarine about a turnaround battle, the launch was not

the end, or even the beginning of the end, but The crowd cheered, and that shiny new ship slid the end of the beginning of the long, productive down the ways to begin its life of service. life of USS PITTSBURGH (SSN 720). It was wonderful.

Editor’s Note: Many thanks to Judy Halleran A View from the Bow for her kind sharing of the six photos above. By John A. Van Huyck USS Pittsburgh Scholarship Fund December 8, 1984, was the end of the first phase, the launching, in the eventually long life The scholarship fund, originally established in of USS PITTSBURGH (SSN 720) and one of July 1986, will continue into the foreseeable those memorable days of a lifetime for me as I future as a source of supplemental funds for had been invited to ride the launch down the attendance at institutions beyond high school ways once Carol Sawyer cracked the bottle on for former crewmen and their dependents. the bow. The deadline for application for the 2020- Of course, it is now known that I was up on the 2021 school year is April 30, 2020. Apply for the bow for a purpose – to witness a yard worker USS Pittsburgh Scholarship simultaneously crack a bottle of Iron City beer at https://pittsburghfoundation.org/scholarshi on the bow – a job that Electric Boat would not p/1363 and submit applications to Mr. John F. trust to a “Yinzer”. That bottle is now safe at Caspero, Jr. 142 Alpine Road Bridgeville, PA Soldiers and Sailors Memorial in Oakland. 15017. cell: 412-519-6467; home: 412-257-6141 But, there is more to that picture than meets [email protected]. the eye, particularly as it was a clear, cold and Contributions are welcome at any time. They extremely blustery day (check the position of the should be sent directly to the Pittsburgh pennants flying from the sub’s tower). I and Foundation, Five PPG Place, Suite 250, others on the deck could at least move around Pittsburgh, PA 15222. You can identify the during the ceremony but not the sailors donation for grantmaking (used in the current positioned on the sail. grant year) or principle (long term growth). Port of Pittsburgh Patriotism and Gratitude Jan., Feb., March 2020 10.

Marine Safety Unit Pittsburgh Memorabilia Submitted by ENS William Russell, Chief, Several small items containing the logo of the Waterways Management USS Pittsburgh are available for sale while New Regulated Navigation Area (RNA) quantities last: The narrow channels at the confluence of the Item Quantity Price three rivers are utilized by commercial traffic and Metal travel mug 6 $30 also serve as a recreational destination spot in the Acrylic Xmas Ornament 30 $20 warmer months. Historically the channel was Ballcap w/logo 7 $25 often blocked to commercial traffic by recreation Lapel pin w/logo 40 $5 vessels that raft off to each other during events held at or near the Point (including To purchase any item, please contact John games/concerts at Heinz Field and PNC Park). Caspero at: [email protected]; or home Met with interested parties, via the Waterways phone: 412.257.6141. Association of Pittsburgh, to discuss solutions and then drafted an RNA prohibiting vessels from New Commissary and Exchange loitering or anchoring 100' or more from the Shopping Privileges for Veterans riverbank along the regulated area. See 85 FR As of January 1, 2020 ALL service-connected 2305. The RNA went into effect on 2/14/2020. disabled Veterans (any level of disability), Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war (POW), and individuals designated as the primary family International Association of Maritime Port caregivers of eligible Veterans under the VAs Executives (IAMPE) Seminar. Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family MSU Pittsburgh was fortunate to host the Caregivers can present their VHIC to gain entry to IAMPE seminar. This seminar discussed the commissaries, exchanges (AAFES, NEXCOM, MCX challenges of maritime port growth and and CGX) and MWR retail activities. Read operations from an executive level of more: https://www.shopmyexchange.com/dav. management. Captain Amy Beach, Sector Information on the Veterans Health Care ID Commander of Sector Ohio Valley was in (VHIC) can be found attendance, along with attendees from throughout at https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id- the Eighth Coast Guard District. All attendees cards/ this is a significant change for those who gained valuable insight on the complex challenges served but didn't retire from the military. Please of the maritime industry. help pass the word. MSU Pittsburgh Responds to Cyber-Attack Easter Activities for Military In November, a facility on the Ohio River Members/Families experienced a severe ransomware intrusion. MSU 911th Airlift Wing is sponsoring an Easter Pittsburgh responded swiftly, working Egg Hunt on Saturday March 28th from 11 AM- with the facility representatives, to mitigate 1 PM for children of military, ages infant to 10 impacts of the attack. The Coast Guard is years of age. Event will be held at the Navy committed to prioritizing and mitigating cyber Operational Support Center (NOSC) security threats in the United States of America. RSVP due NLT March 20, https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/anim.cfm?i= Veteran's Picnic---September 2020 499829&k=06684B01795E or call the PLEASE start collecting items that could be POC, Cari Lennon, 412-474-8359. used in the "goody bags" we put together for our Base entrance requirements: Any guest over veterans. We have limited funds to support this 18 years of age or older must have a photo ID; activity and the "goody bags" are a big hit. Items Any guest without a DOD ID or Dependent IC such as hats, playing cards, puzzle books, pens, must contact Cari Lennon, POC NLT March 20 and socks are all welcome. For more info, and provide full name with middle initial, contact Polly Bozdech-Veater, driver’s license number and state of issuance, [email protected], 412-719-6432. date of birth and social security number.

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CAPT Neil P. Walsh, USN, (ret)  Tickets for Troops – Provides tickets to Captain Walsh, the second commanding service members and their families officer of the USS Pittsburgh from 17 Jan 1986 throughout the year to sporting events, to 29 Jul 1988, passed away on March 10 in concerts, etc. (As available) Norfolk, VA. He was a frequent visitor to  Family Day/Welcome Home Events – Support depends on the event, usually Pittsburgh and a great supporter of the USS centered around family-friendly activities. Pittsburgh Relief Crew. (As needed). He is survived by his wife Pat, daughter, Seasonal events include Rucksacks to Backpacks, Santoshi Devi and son, Scott. Funeral services Thanksgiving Baskets and Adopt a Family. were held on Monday, March 16 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 520 Graydon Ave, Norfolk VA Help for Service 23507. Members/Veterans/Families In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial As we know, southwest Pennsylvania has a donations can be made to Virginia Supportive significant population of veterans and military Housing, 8002 Discovery Drive, Ste 201, members (active and reserve) and families. There Richmond, VA 23229 or Sacred Heart Church are over 250 organizations in Allegheny County (Memo: Haiti Twinning Ministry). If you want that offer a variety of services. to send a card, the Walsh’s address is 1367 Below are two of the agencies that help provide Cornwall Pl, Norfolk VA 23508 services: PAServes March - Women History Month It is a coordinated network of service providers As the world celebrates the Women’s History in the Greater Pittsburgh area and to equip the Month, we often forget to thank our women serving service providers with the technological and or have served in the military. The Veteran's informational resources needed to efficiently and Administration has started project "I Am Not effectively guide service-members, veterans, and Invisible" (IANI). their families to the most appropriate services and There are roughly 2 million living women resources. Service available, Monday-Friday, 8:30 Veterans, and many VA employees who are women AM-:4:30 PM. After office hours, begin the Veterans. By spotlighting the many faces of this request process by utilizing the website or by diverse and important segment of the Veteran calling and leaving a message 855-838- community, IANI aims to increase awareness and 7744 http://paserves.org. dialogue about women Veterans, as well as open viewers’ eyes to the myriad levels of expertise of Veterans Leadership Program of Western PA Veterans serving Veterans. Go 2934 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, to https://www.va.gov/womenvet/iani/index.asp 412-481-8200, http://www.vlpwpa.org to see some of the pictures of women veterans. Provides a wide range of services to military members and veterans, including housing, USO Office Comes to Pittsburgh financial counseling, employment assistance and The new USO office is located at the 911th Airlift wellness programming. They also accept Wing, 2475 Defense Ave, Building 210, Rm 211, donations of clothing, furniture and household Coraopolis, PA 15108-4403. Available on goods to help support veterans with housing UTA/(drill) and during the week, 8 AM-4 PM. POC: Christine Ree, Western PA Regional issues. Contact Danielle Bush, [email protected]. Manager, [email protected], Cell: 412-427-4753.  Advantage Credit Counseling at Christine is looking for volunteers. Currently VLP: Thursday's from 9:30am-4:30pm available programs include:  Employment Assistance: Every  Bob Hope Legacy Reading Program Wednesday from 10am-4pm, résumé (BHLRP) – Service members can record writing and job placement assistance. themselves reading a children’s book. The The VLPWPA will hold its annual Tribute to book and recording are shipped home. Any Veterans on May 29 at the Rivers Casino. For service member who finds themselves away more information or tickets, from home may participate, whether they are https://e.givesmart.com/events/gNv/. away from home for a deployment or a drill weekend. (By appointment). Annual Dinner Meeting Announcement Exercising an abundance of caution in the light of the uncertainties surrounding the recently declared Coronavirus Pandemic, the Board of Directors, at its meeting March 11, 2020,voted to indefinitely postpone its Annual Dinner Meeting to honor Navy, Marine and Coast Guard Persons of the Year and the installation of newly elected officers. Originally scheduled to take place at the Edgewood Country Club on April 3, 2020, alternative plans for both the Awards Ceremonies as well as the Annual Dinner Meeting will be published once they have been finalized by the Board.

Patriotism Pittsburgh Council Board of Directors Gratitude

Office Director’s Office Name Contact Information Expiration [email protected] President Tom Clark, Jr. 2/2022 412.373.7746 Vice President of [email protected] Robert Conway 2/2022 Outreach 412.268.1205 Vice President of [email protected] Don Beynon 2/2022 Education 412.680.3200 [email protected] Secretary Katherine Kersten 2/2022 412.367.4725 [email protected] Judge Advocate Nick Krawec, Esq. 2/2020 412.456.8103 Immediate Past [email protected] Bob MacPherson President 717.606.7047 [email protected] Treasurer Anita Sleigh 2/2022 570.387.6532 Scholarship [email protected] John Caspero Coordinator 412.257.6141 Outreach Committee [email protected] Polly Bozdech-Veater 2/2022 Representative 412.782.2533

Past Presidents (Active Council Members)– non-voting: John Van Huyck (1977), Wallace Utley (1978), John Caspero (1980, 1992), David Erdodi (1981), Dick Halleran (1984-5), William Stein (1988), Richard Kennedy (1991), Doug Thompson (1993), Ray Boyer (1996), Karl Ludwig (1998), Bill Braund (2000), Stew Shannon (2001-2), James Bendel (2004), Paula Bozdech-Veater (2005-7), Judy Halleran (2008-10), Al Hribar (20011-12), Henry Rainone (2013-2015), Brad Harrison (2015- 2017, Bob MacPherson (2017-2020).

National Officers: NLUS Director Emeritus Bill Braund NLUS- Director Emeritus Dick Halleran NLUS Director Emeritus Richard Kennedy NLUS Director Emeritus Judy Halleran NLUS-Vice President Polly Bozdech-Veater

Youth Programs Senior Enlisted Sgt Maj Edward Shaffer,USMC I & I, Surgical CO, Alpha Naval Sea Cadets Unit [email protected] 4th MED BN, 4th MLG Pittsburgh Battalion 412.395.6357 Commanding Officer HMC Rachel Hoskins LCDR Guy Mignogna, USNSCC Carnegie Mellon University [email protected] (W) 412-225-5469 Naval Science ROTC Senior Enlisted Advisor (C) 412-373-8924 4615 Forbes Ave HM1 Richard Lang [email protected] Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3796 [email protected]

412.268.5109 Executive Officer USMCI-I CO K, 3/25 LTJG Anthony Waters, USNSCC Commanding Officer Maj. Green, USMC (C) 412.761.9658 CAPT. William McKinney, USN anthony.waters.@pittsburghseacadets. Work: 412-678-1104 (314) [email protected] com Executive Officer Cell: 317-908-0292

Major Robert Paugh, USMC Ambridge High School [email protected] [email protected] Marine Corps JROTC [email protected] Sgt.

MSgt. Thomas G. Short (USMC Keith A. Sandor, USMC Navy Talent Acquisition Group Ret) [email protected] (NTAG) [email protected] 412.678.0837 X311 713 Federal Building 724.266.2833 x 2221 1000 Liberty Ave C: 724.799.1948 NOSC ERIE Pittsburgh, PA 15222 3938 Old French Road, 412.395.5809 West Allegheny High School Erie, PA 16504

Marine Corps JROTC 814.866.3073 Commanding Officer Commanding Officer CDR Thomas McKeon, USN Maj D.G. Botizan, USMC, Ret Commanding Officer [email protected] 724.695.520.5239 CDR Scott Bennie, USN Executive Officer [email protected] [email protected] CDR Brandon D. Smith, USN Senior Enlisted Leader [email protected] Active Duty Commands PRC (AW) Robert L. Tolbert. 412.395.5809; c 615.498.8564 U.S. Coast Guard, [email protected] Senior Enlisted Marine Safety Unit Master Chief Mistie Marcucci, 1041 Washington Pike, Ste. 300 Marines I-I USN Bridgeville, PA 15017 (b) 814.868.0848 X 2100 412.395.5755 412.221.0807 [email protected] Commanding Officer Erie Coast Guard Station CDR Aaron Demo, USCG 1 Coast Guard Station, Erie, PA 16505 [email protected] Navy Operational Support 814.838.2097 Executive Officer Center (NOSC) OINC LCDR Steve Miros, USCG 1265 Rocky Lane BMC Dan Heltzer, USCG [email protected] Coraopolis, PA 15108 [email protected] Senior Enlisted 412.776.4000 814.838.2098; c 814.434.3224 MSTC Caesar L. Valdez, USCG Commanding Officer [email protected] CDR Christine Brashear, USN Defense Contract 412.221.0807 ext. 230 [email protected] Management Agency 412 776.4021 Pittsburgh USCG CGC Osage Executive Officer 2790 Mosside Blvd., Ste 510 McKown Lane, Sewickley, PA Lt. Sam Colton, USN Monroeville, PA 15146 412.741.1180 [email protected] CDR Rachele Wharton, USN OINC 412.776.4011; c 662.3526064 [email protected] BMCS Shane Yonushonis, USCG Senior Enlisted Advisor 412.702.9376 [email protected] ACS Sean Gregar, USN Sean. [email protected] Marine Corps Recruiting 412.776.4022 Battalion, Pittsburgh Federal Building, 1000 Liberty Ave Marine Units Pittsburgh, PA 15222 625 E. Pittsburgh-McKeesport Blvd., 412 496.3616 North Versailles, PA 15137 Commanding Officer Marines I-I, MP CO B Maj. Andrew Hornfeck USMC (C) 412.395.4917 Captain Will "Hammer" Keller [email protected] Office: 412-672-3472 Ext 200 Executive Officer BB: 412-638-5571 Capt. Robert Lass, USMC 412.395.4917 [email protected] Robert.Lass @marines.usmc.mil 1stSgt Mark Shawhan, USMC [email protected]

NAVY LEAGUE OF THE UNITED STATES, PITTSBURGH COUNCIL NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE 8229 EAST VAN BUREN DRIVE PITTSBURGH, PA 15237 PAID PITTSBURGH, PA Jan., Feb., March 2020 Newsletter PERMIT NO. 1250

USS Pittsburgh Inactivation Ceremony Launch Day Memories Relief Crew History Annual Meeting/Awards Dinner Postponed

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