VOLUME 46 NUMBER 1 WWW.USSESSEXCV9.ORG April 2015

USS ESSEX CV/CVA/CVS-9/LHD-2

US NAVY

NOTES FROM THE EDITOR Vol. 46 APRIL 2015 NO.1

Chairman Robert C. Zeller, Jr. We have designed the Buccaneer to provide you with as Vice Chairman Berlyn Ware much information, news, humor and coming events as Secretary H. Bruce Sims

possible. This is your newsletter so please forward us Treasurer Robert D. Peters

feedback as to articles and material you would like to see. Chaplain Bob Nause

Historian Richard M. Scales

We will keep all future issues to a maximum of 24 pages, and Ship’s Storekeeper Tom Ferelli

20 pages would be ideal. This will keep our postage expenses Buccaneer Editor Tony Medina

Master at Arms Fred McCaskill to a minimum. With a tighter format, while using the front Membership/Publicity Scott Packer and back cover to eliminate wasted space, we should have as much if not more material to present to the reader. BOARD OF DIRECTORS

*** CONTENTS*** Class of 2015 1- COVER- USS ESSEX & LHD-2 Tom Connell Eugene Schmidt Gordon Kreiner 2- NOTES FROM THE EDITOR, CONTENTS/OFFICERS/ DEAD LINES, etc. Class of 2016 3- CHAIRMAN’S REPORT/MEMBERSHIP APPL. Berlyn Ware Richard Scales Ed Mrozinski 4- CHAPLAIN’S REPORT Th 5- 46 ESSEX ASSOCIATION REUNION Class of 2017 6- REUNION PLAN OF THE WEEK Bob Dreher Scott Packer Tom Ferelli 7- REUNION PLAN OF THE WEEK CONTINUATION. Berlyn Ware 8- REUNION TOURS FORMER CHAIRMEN 9- REUNION REGISTRATION FORM Joseph DuErmit William Pihl 10- TAPS /SICK BAY/WELCOME ABOARD Robert C. Zeller Jr. Robert Walker Frank O’Connor 11- MEMORIAL AND HONOR LIST Norm Thompson Dan Genet 12 –TREASURER’S FINANCIAL REPORT

13- ESSEX RECEIVES AMMO ( LHD-2) ADVISORY BOARD

14- VETERANS GOING OUT OF VA FOR HEALTH CARE Class of 2014

15- CHANGES TO THE ROSTER/RETURN TO SENDER Bill McCaffrey Don Fortin Bob Watson

16- US NAVY BURIAL AT SEA PROGRAM THE BUCCANEER is a periodical publication published a minimum of three 17- SHIP’S STORE PAGE 1 times annually by the USS ESSEX CV/CVA/CVS-9/LHD-2 ASSN. INC., a 18- SHIP’S STORE PAGE 2 non-profit organization. Members are composed of those who have served on the 19- SHIP’S STORE FORM Page 3 above ships at various times from 1941 to present. Offspring of those who served 20- ESSEX ORGANIZATION DUES NOTICE are also qualified for full membership. Spouses and others who are sponsored by a member may become an Associate Member but without voting privileges.

NOTE: All photos, prints, articles, biographies, events, naval news,

letters, humor, cartoons and all other newsworthy material should be sent to the editor as clearly and comprehensive as possible. All material

forwarded for publication will be used when space and time permits.

*Bob Nause–Chaplain /570-788-3157/ [email protected] 2015 DUES ARE DUE! 28 Country Club Ln., Sugarloaf, PA 18249-9733

PLEASE SEND YOUR DUES TO *Tony & Maria Medina-Editor /732-738-6807 EUGENE SCHMIDT [email protected] 1719 Sunnyview Oval HIS ADDRESS IS ON THE BACK COVER OF THIS Keasbey, NJ 08832 PUBLICATION *H. Bruce Sims-Secretary /770-707-1812/[email protected] 581 Conkle Rd. Hampton, GA 30228

BUCCANEER SUBMISSION DEADLINE *Gerald McDonell-Publicity/Membership [email protected] Last day of October for December issue. 42543 Applecreek Dr. Plymouth, MI 48170

Last day of February for April issue. *Robert D. Peters-Treasurer/[email protected] 2329 Princeton Berkley, MI 48072-3020

Last day of June for August issue. *Chuck Fiedler-LHD [email protected] 801 Windom Blvd. Chesapeake,VA 23320-8308 2 757-971-0480

From The Eyes of the Chairman

From: The Eyes of the Chairman: Our 2014 reunion in Sept. was probably the least attended but, was a huge success. People enjoyed the tours and the hotel was lovely, and plenty spacious for getting together. We are working on our 2015 reunion in Indianapolis, finalizing the tours. That promises to be great also. We really need more members to attend. This increases membership input and hotel perks. Our chairman recently had a defibrillator placed in his heart and is doing much better. The holidays are upon us and we wish one, and all a safe and happy holiday season. Your chairman, Bob Zeller

U.S.S.ESSEX CV/CVA/CVS-9/LHD-2, INC ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION $25.00 FILL OUT THIS FORM AND MAIL WITH ABOVE APPLICATION FEE TO: U.S.S. ESSEX ASSN. H.Bruce Sims/Secretary 581 Conkle Rd Hampton, GA 30228-2702 Phone: (770) 707 1812 Email: [email protected] PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY * REQUIRED FIELDS * NAME: ______* BIRTH DATE: ______* ADDRESS: ______* CITY: ______* STATE:______* ZIP CODE:______* PHONE: ______* EMAIL: ______LIST MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN THE ASSOCIATION ROSTER ___YES ___NO LIST MY EMAIL ADDRESS ON THE ESSEX WEB SITE___YES___NO SPOUSE FIRST NAME: ______OR CK HERE IF NONE___ NAME OF SPONSOR, IF ANY:______HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT OUR ORGANIZATION? ______REMARKS: ______

NOW HEAR THIS!

I have gave notice in the past few Buccaneer issues

that next year’s (2016) reunion I will be retiring as your secretary.

However, I will continue to offer my service and support

to our organization in some other capacity. I also encourage

each member to step forward and volunteer their services

somewhere to help our association with their

talents and support in keeping us afloat.

Sincerely, H. Bruce Sims Secretary USS Essex Association

3

Chaplain’s Message

Jelly Bean Prayer

Red is for the blood he gave, Green is for the grass he made. Yellow is for the sun so bright, Orange is for the edge of the night. Black is for the sins we made, White is for the grace he gave. Purple is for his hours of sorrow, Pink is for our new tomorrow.

A bag full of jelly beans is yummy to eat. It’s a picture a promise, a special treat, to help us remember Jesus’ work complete, Gives us hope beyond any earthly sweet.

To a Christian, Easter Sunday means everything when we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ It is Faith that keep us going in times heart take and sorrow. We will have loved ones who will be celebrating Easter with the Lord this year, We must not let our faith waver in times of grief and sadness. At Easter time we must remember that faith is what lets us keep going. Jesus died on the cross for our sins. As of this writing it is -5degrees outside, snow and ice is abundant. Spring is around the corner and it will be the most welcome. Happy Easter to all our shipmates and their families. God bless you and God bless America. God bless and keep our troops safe in these unsettled times.

Robert Nause Chaplain 4

46th USS ESSEX Association Reunion

Our 2015 reunion will be held at the Wyndham Indianapolis West Hotel located at 2544 Executive Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46241 the week of September 14 to September 20, 2015. To make your Hotel reservations please call 317.248-2481 OR 1.800.444-2326. You MUST indicate the group name USS ESSEX Association in order to receive the group rate. Please make your reservations Early. Our room rate is $104.00 a night plus tax which includes Breakfast for Two, Transportation To & From the Indianapolis, IN Airport and Hotel Parking. There is NO discount in the hotel restaurant this year. If you have ANY PROBLEM in making your reservation, make the reservation and then call the Reunion Brat at 360.663-2521.

The Hotel is about 8 miles from the Indianapolis Airport (Airport code is “IND”). If your using a computer to search for Airfare you can try KAYAK.COM to search numerous airlines at one time, when you select an airline it automatically switches you to that airline to make your reservation. Note: Southwest Airlines does not participate in Kayak.

After landing and picking up your luggage, go to the Hotel call board and call the Hotel for pick up, then walk out the terminal doors, cross the street to the Ground Transportation Building, walk straight through the Ground Transportation Building to the exit, walk out the exit and turn left to Zone # 2 for the Hotel bus.

Our Thursday evening specialty food night will be our old favorite Pizza. At our Saturday night Dinner we will have Mediterranean Style Chicken Breast, Fresh Seared Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce or Prime Rib with a Tossed Salad, Vegetables, Starch, Rolls & Butter, Coffee or Tea, Apple Pie with a sugar free option.

The following is a list of tours that we have set up for the Indianapolis Reunion.

1- Trip to a local Casino Food is available at the Casino for Dinner 2- A tour to Nashville, Indiana an Old Farm Town with Antique stores, Novelty shops, homemade snacks & more. Lunch will be on your own. On the way back you will stop at a local Winery. 3- City Tour - should include local monuments and a Presidential home. 4- Murder Mystery Dinner 5- Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Museum and a bus ride around the racetrack. Also for the adventurous you can ride an Indy racecar around the track at 180 MPH for $500.00, a bit steep. – Dallara Indy Car Factory were you can get a ride around the neighborhood in a street legal Indy Car for $20.00. Lunch will be on your own. 6- A tour to 4 local Indianapolis Breweries.

On other pages in the Buccaneer you will find the Registration form for the Indianapolis Reunion, the Plan of the Week and a description of the planned tours.

Shipmates, Your Association needs YOU. Please think about becoming an Officer in Your Association. If you have any questions Please call your Chairman, Bob Zeller at 504.467- 1665 or myself at 954.899-2170.

Dan Genet Reunion Coordinator 5 PLAN OF THE WEEK

USS ESSEX (CV/CVA/CVS-9/LHD-2, INC.) 46th ANNUAL REUNION Wyndham - Indianapolis, IN SEPTEMBER 14 – 20, 2015

Monday, September 14, 2015 0800 “Now hear this” – Set the watch, Hoist the Welcome Banner, Stand by to receive guests to the 46th Annual USS ESSEX Reunion in Indianapolis, IN

0900 – 1200 Registration and Tour Packets table will be in front of the Hospitality Room 0900 – 2300 Hospitality Room, (Bar open, If someone is available to tend bar while touring) 1300 – 1900 Tour #1, Casino Tour Food is available at the Casino for Dinner

Tuesday, September 15, 2015 0800 – 0845 Registration and Tour Packets table will be in front of the Hospitality Room 0900 – 2300 Hospitality Room, (Bar open, If someone is available to tend bar while touring) 0900 – 1730 Tour #2, Nashville Village & Local Winery Lunch & Dinner will be on your own

Wednesday, September 16, 2015 0900 – 1000 Registration and Tour Packets table will be in front of the Hospitality Room 0900 – 2300 Hospitality Room, (Bar open, If someone is available to tend bar while touring) 0830 – 1130 Annual Board of Directors Meeting 1230 – 1700 Tour #3, City Tour 1730 – 2200 Tour #4, Mystery Dinner

Thursday, September 17, 2015 0800 – 0815 Registration and Tour Packets table will be in front of the Hospitality Room 0900 – 2300 Hospitality Room, (Bar open, If someone is available to tend bar while touring)

0830 – 1700 Tour #5, Indy Speedway – Dallara Indy Car Factory Lunch will be on your own 1830 – 2000 Pizza Night, Hospitality Room

6 Continuation of Plan of the Week……

Friday, September 18, 2015 0830 – 0900 Registration and Tour Packets table will be in front of the Hospitality Room 0900 – 1200 Members General Business Meeting “Show membership card for admission”

1300 – 1700 Tour #6, Visit 4 Local Breweries 1200 – 1830 Hospitality Room and will open following the Auction 1900 – 2300 Ladies Auction; Starting at 1600 you may bring in your items to be Auctioned Saturday, September 19, 2015 1000 – 1100 Memorial Service 1100 – 1530 Hospitality Room 1700 – 1800 Cocktail Hour (Cash Bar) 1800 – 2200 Banquet Dinner and then Dance the night away with a local DJ

Sunday, September 20, 2015 0800 Farewell to Friends and Shipmates until next year.

Indy 500 Indy 500 Flyover

7

TOURS Tour #1 ~ Indiana Grand Casino We will visit the 233,000 square foot Indiana Grand Casino. Built at a cost of more than $250 million, Indiana Grand Racing & Casino was awarded top honors in multiple gaming magazines. Experience the outstanding atmosphere of a Las Vegas-style casino featuring more than 2,200 slots and e-table games. Dinner will be on your own at the casino. Upon arrival at the casino you will receive a coupon worth $10 off the buffet dinner in their restaurant and $10 casino cash.

Tour #2 ~ Nashville Indiana Tour/ Oliver Winery Little Nashville in Brown County Indiana has country music, quaint craft shops and art galleries, as well as the great outdoors! More than 250 local artists, including potters, weavers, sculptors, jewelers, fiber and textile artists, painters, photographers, glassmakers and wood carvers. Visitors will enjoy touring the village of Nashville. There will be time for lunch on your own. Then we will visit Oliver Winery. The winery is Indiana’s oldest and largest winery, committed to making high quality wine that reflects the flavor and character of the fruit from which they are made, Oliver Winery boasts an extensive wine list. The visit to the winery includes a memorable wine tasting experience.

Tour #3 ~ City Tour/President Harrison Site/Monument Circle Visit the city sites. Tour the home and gardens of the only U.S. president elected to date from the State of Indiana! The Delaware Street home of Benjamin Harrison is beautifully furnished with many of Harrison's paintings, furniture, and other artifacts including political memorabilia. We will then drive to the Monument Circle in the center of downtown where the Sailors Monument is located. Designed by Bruno Schmitz and constructed between 1887 and 1902, this limestone monument includes The Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum that is housed in the lower level. If time permits we will also visit the Medal of Honor Memorial.

Tour #4 ~ Mystery Dinner Theater Indianapolis The Mystery Dinner Theater play unfolds in four acts, with a course of the meal served after each one. Members of the audience may participate as much, or as little, as they like in the mystery. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the door by the evening’s characters, which will help you find your seats and your new identity. Fifteen to 20 guests have lines to read during the play, and some are given a song to sing. When the first scene starts, keep a watchful eye open for clues, and jot down anything that looks suspicious. At evening’s end, we give a prize to the person who best solves the mystery. We also give a prize to the biggest ham - the best actor or actress from the audience. Every performance is unique because the audience is so directly and deeply involved.

Tour #5 ~ Indianapolis Speedway Museum and Grounds Tour & Dallara Car Factory Tour Over the years, the Hall of Fame Museum has amassed one of the world's largest, most varied collection of racing, classic and antique cars, including more than 30 cars that won the Indianapolis 500. The Tony Hulman Theatre presents a 20- minute film on the history of the track and race highlights. Upon arrival we will take a narrated tour of the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway facility. The tour provides guests the opportunity to tour the oval track, visit the media center, the Pagoda, victory platform, garage area and a Gasoline Alley suite, plus stand on the famous "Yard of Bricks" at the start/finish line along with time to tour the Hall of Fame Museum. Lunch will be on your own. Next will be a visit the Dallara Indy Car Factory which offers visitors the chance to explore 23,000 square feet of interactive and hands-on exhibits centered around the engineering and technology of the world's fastest sport!

Tour #6 ~ Indianapolis Brewery Tour Brewery Tours of Indianapolis takes you on the greatest beer tasting experience in Indy. Each tour takes you to four local craft breweries, gives you an in-depth brewery walk through, a chance to meet the brewer, samplings of the local beer, bottled water on the bus and coolers on board to keep your purchased growlers cold.

8

2015 USS ESSEX REUNION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

SEPTEMBER 14-20, 2015

NAME ______PREFERRED NAME ON BADGE______

NAME OF YOUR GUESTS______PREFERRED NAME ON BADGE______

ADDRESS______

CITY______STATE______ZIP______

PHONE______EMAIL______

IS THIS YOUR FIRST ESSEX REUNION? (YES OR NO) ______WHAT DAY DO YOU EXPECT TO ARRIVE?______

HOW MANY DAYS WILL YOU ATTEND? ______PLEASE LIST ANY SPECIAL NEEDS______

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY NOTIFY ______

REGISTRATION FEES

\

NUMBER OF PERSONS ATTENDING REQUIRED REGISTRATION FEE ______X $25 ______

THURSDAY NIGHT PIZZA______X $6 ______

PRIME RIB ______X $37 ______BANQUET MEAL CHOICE

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN ______X $33 ______

SALMON ______X $34 ______

PLEASE SELECT: REGULAR PIE______OR SUGAR FREE PIE ______

TOURS

TH TOUR #1~ MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 ~ INDIANA GRAND CASINO ______X $32 ______

TH TOUR #2 ~ TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 ~ NASHVILLE VILLAGE / OLIVER WINERY ______X $53 ______

TH TOUR #3~ WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 ~ CITY TOUR ______X $36 ______

TOUR #4 ~ WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH ~ MYSTERY DINNER THEATER ______X $74 ______

TH TOUR #5 ~ THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 ~ INDY SPEEDWAY & DALLARA FACTORY ______X $76______

TH TOUR #6 ~ FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 ~ BREWERY TOUR______X $32______

TOTAL INCLOSED $ ______

PLEASE MARK T-SHIRT SIZE: SM______M______L ______XL ______XXL ______

PAYMENT IS DUE NO LATER THAN AUGUST 14, 2015

PLEASE SEND PAYMENTS TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS AND MADE PAYABLE TO: THE REUNION BRAT 16817 MOUNTAINSIDE DRIVE EAST GREENWATER, WA 98022  Confirmation of Registration and Itinerary will be sent out by August 18, 2015.  A $20 per person cancellation fee will apply to all cancellations received within 30 days of the event.  Cancellations received within 10 days of the event will be non -refundable. All payments have been made to all vendors.  Call the Wyndham at 317-248-2481as soon as possible to make your room reservations. Room reservations must be made no later than August 14, 2015. Be sure to mention you are with the USS Essex Association Reunion to receive your group room rate of $104 plus tax per night, Breakfast is included in the room rate.  Depending on availability the room rates are available 3 days prior to and after your reunion should you choose to extend your stay. WE’LL SEE YOU SOON IN INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA !

TAPS and SICKBAY FOR APRIL,2015

TAPS

NAME DATE ABOARD

Richard McGraw 2/13/2012 “Fabled Fifteen, Air group”

Richard J. Miller 11/14/2014 1952-1955

Margaret Villamaria 10/2014 Wife/Frank Villamaria

Barbara Greenslate Wife /Ron Greenslate

Leon C. Askew {Div.Officer to Berlyn Ware} 11/16/14 Served in the 50’s

Eugene I. Bullington 1/10/2015 1959-1962

Mary Jane Payne 11/23/14 Wife of John P. Payne

Michelle L. Walker - Heldeman 1/13/15 Daughter of Robert Walker

C. Scott Smith 6/18/14 1950-1952

SICKBAY

Rosa Nesbitt wife of Paul Nesbitt surgery

*************************************************************************************

WELCOME ABOARD NEW MEMBERS

NAME DIV/S ABOARD Webb, Jr., Edwin V7 1951-1953 Stanley, Charles N. VF114 1956-1957 Gentry, Chris ? ? Saltsman, George E 1951-1953 Harder, Travis V4 1994-1997 Savage Gerald G. Marine detachment 1957-1958

10

MEMORIAL & HONOR LIST

MEMORIALIZED HONORED DONOR

Nancy Acree Bob & Lois Emswiler Norman “Jerry” Yergen Bruce Reeve Margaret Villamaria Bruce Reeve

In HONOR or MEMORY of Form Name Donor In Memory of In Honor of______By______In Memory of In Honor of______By______

Name______Street/Apt.______City______St & Zip ______

Please make check payable to USS Essex Assn. and send it to treasurer Bob Peters, 2329 Princeton, Berkley MI 48072 Thank You (All donations will go into the general fund unless noted) Donation $______

11

12 Essex Receives Ammo (LHD-2)

Story Number: NNS150227-05Release Date: 2/27/2015 8:44:00 AM A A A By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jason M. Graham, USS Essex (LHD 2) Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The Wasp-class amphibious-assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) conducted an ammunition on-load Feb. 9-12 while underway in the Pacific Ocean.

The ship took on more than 1,000 pallets of ordnance by helicopter during the four-day evolution in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

An ordnance on-load is a major logistical process necessary for Essex to become completely operational in its warfighting capabilities. Sixty-one Sailors from Weapons department dedicated a significant amount of time planning and preparing their personnel, spaces and equipment for the on- load.

"I checked aboard a year ago this month," said Senior Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Jason May. "We were already talking about what we had to do to get ready for this."

Essex has not conducted an ammunition on-load in more than four years, due to recently completing a two-year, $250 million dry-docked planned maintenance availability (DPMA); the largest in surface force history.

The ordnance was transferred from shore facilities via four MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters from the "Blackjacks" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 to the flight deck. From there it was moved by forklift to ordnance elevators for delivery to awaiting magazines, or the port side aircraft elevator for delivery to the hangar bay and a different elevator and magazine. Through it all, safety was paramount.

"I'm a roving safety. I make sure people are getting enough of what they need," May said. "I'm constantly asking myself: Do our safety observer and quality assurance (QA) Sailors have everything they need to do their job?"

Many of the junior Sailors involved with the on-load were grateful to experience their first ammunition on-load. This part of the ship's work-up cycle gave them the opportunity to gain knowledge and receive valuable training.

"The best part of the evolution was getting hands-on with your job. I haven't touched a bomb since 'A' school," said Aviation Ordnanceman Apprentice Devan Beaman.

Essex is the second Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and the fifth to carry the Essex name.

For more news from USS Essex (LHD 2), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd2/.

13 Lawmakers Puzzled Why Few Veterans Are Going Outside VA for Care

Stars and Stripes | Feb 27, 2015 | by Travis J. Tritten

WASHINGTON -- Senators said Thursday a new multi-billion-dollar program to provide outside health care to veterans caught up in long waits at the VA does not appear to be working.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., pressed the Department of Veterans Affairs to figure out why the Veterans Choice program -- estimated by Congress to cost $10 billion -- has only resulted in 30,000 veteran appointments since the program was launched in November.

A second facet of the program that offers vets outside care if they live more than 40 miles from a VA health care facility has been used by just 44 beneficiaries, Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Bob McDonald told the lawmakers.

The participation figures come as Congress is weighing the department's budget request for the coming year and drilling down on the job performance of McDonald, who was confirmed last summer with the hope he could turn around the VA and root out poor management.

"The choice card program basically seems to be not working," Blumenthal said.

He said the numbers make it clear the choice program is "shockingly underutilized" but the reasons for that remain unclear despite discussion with McDonald and the VA.

The VA began mailing out Veterans Choice cards to beneficiaries in November, highlighting the option to pursue outside health care if they choose. The program was passed last summer as part of a massive federal law overhauling the VA following a nationwide scandal of long patient wait times and records manipulation. Giving veterans the option of seeking non-VA care was expected to account for the lion's share of the $16.3-billion overhaul law.

McDonald told the senators that about 500,000 VA beneficiaries have called about the program but those calls resulted in just 30,000 appointments or clearances, meaning the vets' request was resolved.

"That seems like an awfully low ratio to us," he said.

The VA has produced a YouTube video to advertise the program and is looking at its marketing approach for possible tweaks, McDonald said.

"Even though we have been at this for a while, the last [Veterans Choice] cards went out in January, and right now it is the end of February, so it is early days," McDonald said.

Due to the low turnout and uncertainty, the VA can only estimate the three-year program will cost taxpayers between $4 billion to $13 billion, he said.

Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said he has heard of no improvements in VA access from veteran constituents in Kansas, and that problems with the 40-mile rule of the choice program may be partly to blame.

The department has given lawmakers a mixed message about providing outside health care to beneficiaries in those remote areas -- first saying it would be too expensive and then saying it does not know how much it will cost, Moran said.

A group of 42 senators sent McDonald a letter urging changes to the rules of 40-mile provision, including revising distance calculations from "as the crow flies" to drive time and counting only VA facilities providing the care sought, he said.

The number of veterans coming to Moran's office for help with VA access "is no less today than it was a year ago," he said. 14

Changes to the Roster for 4/2015

Marney, Raymond L. 1122 Miller Dr. Unit 301 Jonesboro, TN 37659 Tel.433-788-3039 [email protected] Bradley, Earle C. 942 Grayson Dr. Apt.311 Springfield, MA 01119-1552 [email protected] Brister, Jr. Dan 812 Wallace Dean Rd. West Monroe, LA 71291-7753 Collins, Robert 8519 Island Breeze Ln. Unit 202 Temple Terr, FL 33637-1128 Powell, Jr. William B. 1174 Continental Ave. Melbourne, FL 32940-6742 Sullivan, Harry J. P.O. Box 207 Allegany, NY 14706-0207 Loucks, Arnold E. [email protected] Emswiler, Robert B. 319 N. 1st St. Apt. 209 Bridgewater, VA 22812 Tel. 540-237-4695 Nelson, Carrey J. Tel. 714-809-1657 Peterson, Eric J. 913-908-2942 [email protected] Tosti, Sally 115 Yard St. Trenton, NJ 08691-4113 Tel. 609-401-0879 Ward, James J. [email protected] Kendall, Faye 42 Patti Lynn Ln. Houston, TX 77024-7120 Tel. 713-850-0147 Ernst, Robert A. 612 LaSalle Blvd. Marquette Heights, IL 61554-1341 Tel. 309-613-0008 Hassebrock, Alfred J. 10221 W. Lake Fork Rd. Kenney, IL 61749-9006 Huff, Walter R. 2914-G Highway 25 S. Rice, WA 99167-9744 Tel. 509-738-6060 Godlewski, Marion H. [email protected] DeCunto, Pasquale J. 2 Fern Ct. Palm Coast, FL 32137-8106 Tel. 978-808-6750 Stephenson, Gary 2320 Jackson St. Unit 306 Stoughton, WI 53589 Tel. 608-345-7189 [email protected] Ongman, Arland (Bud) 321 Hidaway Hills Rd. Blairsville, GA 30512 Tel. 719-464-8848 [email protected] Degedorfer, Albert [email protected] Haas, Gerald R. [email protected]

Return to Sender (Address Unknown

Anderson, Charles E.

Pellerito, Vito

Hoke, Elmer C.

If anyone can help with new addresses for these listed please notify the secretary

15

UNITED STATES NAVY MORTUARY AFFAIRS BURIAL AT SEA PROGRAM

Please read through this entire page. BURIAL AT SEA (BAS) is a means of final disposition of remains, that is performed on United States Naval vessels. The committal ceremony is performed while the ship is deployed, therefore, family members are not allowed to be present. The commanding officer of the ship assigned to perform the ceremony will make notification to the family of the date, time, latitude and longitude, once the committal service has been completed. Eligibility: Individuals eligible for this program are: (1) active duty members of the uniformed services; (2) retirees and veterans who were honorably discharged. (3) U.S. civilian marine personnel of the Military Sealift Command; and (4) dependent family members of active duty personnel, retirees, and veterans of the uniformed services. How to get Started: After the death of the individual for whom the request for Burial at Sea is being made, the Person Authorized to Direct Disposition (PADD) should print out and complete the linked Burial at Sea Request Form. Supporting documents which must accompany this request are: (1) a photocopy of the death certificate; (2) the burial transit permit or the cremation certificate; and (3) a copy of the DD Form 214, discharge certificate, or retirement order. Burial Flag: A Burial Flag, is required for all committal services performed aboard United States Naval vessels, with the exception of family members who are not authorized a burial flag. The PADD may wish to send a flag with the remains/cremains to be flown on the vessel during the committal service. Following the services at sea, that flag will be returned to the PADD. If the PADD does not wish to send a burial flag, the ship's flag will be flown during the committal service, but no flag will be forwarded to the family. Cremated Remains (Cremains): Cremains must be in an urn, may be temporary (plastic/metal/cardboard) container to prevent spillage in shipping. The cremains, along with the completed BAS package, and the burial flag will be forwarded to the Burial-at-Sea Coordinator at the desired port of embarkation (listed below). Prior to shipment, it is recommended that a phone call be made informing the coordinator of the pending request. It is recommended that the packaged cremains be sent via certified mail, return receipt requested. Intact Remains (Casketed): Specific Specific guidelines are required for the preparation of casketed remains to be buried at sea. Remains must be in a metal casket. All expenses incurred in this process are the responsibility of the PADD, who will select a funeral home in the area of the port of embarkation. Remains are not forwarded to the receiving funeral home until the coordinator is notified a ship has been assigned and an embarkation date is anticipated. The coordinator will advise regarding shipment to the receiving funeral home to allow sufficient time for casket preparation. The casketed remains, the request form, supporting documents, and the burial flag are to be forwarded to the receiving funeral home. Once the receiving funeral home has the casket prepared, the coordinator will make the inspection and complete the checklist for the preparation of casketed remains. It is recommended that funeral homes responsible for preparing and shipping intact remains, contact Navy Mortuary Affairs at the Military Medical Support Office in Great Lakes, Illinois to receive the preparation requirements. NOTE: Norfolk and San Diego are the only ports for embarkation of intact remains. PORTS OF EMBARKATION / COORDINATORS

Norfolk, Va. Jacksonville, Fla.

Commander, Naval Medical Branch Medical Clinic Center P. O. Box 280148 ATTN: Code 0210C Naval Station 620 John Paul Jones Cir. Mayport, FL 32228-0148 Portsmouth, VA 23708-5100 Phone: (904) 270-4285 Phone: (757) 953-2617\2618

San Diego, Calif. Bremerton, Wash. Honolulu, Hi.

Naval Medical Center Commanding Officer Navy Liaison Unit Decedent Affairs Code: BUB Naval Hospital Bremerton Tripler Army Medical Center 34800 Bob Wilson Drive Code: 015-BAS/HP01 Boone Tripler AMC, HI 96859-5000 San Diego, CA 92134-5000 Road Phone: (808) 433-4709, 577- Phone: (800) 290-7410 Bremerton, WA 98312-1898 7590 Phone: (360) 475-4790/4543 For More Assistance: If you have questions about our Burial-At-Sea program, please feel free to contact our office toll-free at 1-866-787- 0081 and follow the voice menu. Chief of Information Attn: US Navy 1200 Navy Pentagon Washington DC 20350-1200 FOIA - Privacy Policy/External Links - No Fear Act 16

SHIP’S STORE ORDER FORM (revised 1/2015) PAGE 1 OF 2

LHD-2 Ship Cap CV-9 Cap CVA-9 CVA-9 Ribbon Bar

__x $20.00=$__ __x$20.00=$__ __x$20.00=$__ __x$20.00=$__

CVS-9 Cap CVS-9 Ribbon bar CV-9/WWII 1941-45 Navy Veteran Cap Marine Veteran

__ x $20.00=$______x$20.00=$______x$20.00=$______x$20.00=$______x$20.00=$____

USS Essex LHD-2 CV-9 Veteran Cap CVS-9 –Large print CVA-9 Large print License plate frame with CV Gator $20.00=$___ Large print __x$20.00=$__ Large _x$20.00=$__ Large Print__x$20.00=$__ and LHD $8.00

__x15.00ea.$___

16oz Navy Travel tumbler 16oz USS Essex Travel tumbler 16oz LHD-2 Travel tumbler $15.00 $15.00 $15.00

17

SHIP’S STORE ORDER FORM REVISED 1/2015 ** PLEASE INDICATE SIZE* * PAGE 2 OF 3

Blue Golf /Navy Blue USS Essex t-shirt Sweatshirt Blue USS Essex Jacket White USS Essex $2300 $16.00 $27.00 $52.00 Golf shirt $23. Size ____ Size ____ Size ____ Size ____ Size ____

Ladies Golf Shirt /white Ladies Golf Shirt /Red Men’s Blueberry Polo Zippo Lighters Black lettering $26.00 . Black lettering $26.00 $28.00 $15.00 size____ size_____ size ___ Brass Silver

Lapel pin CV9/LHD2 Challenge coins $11.00 Tote Bag $11.00 CV-9 cap pin $11. $15.00 (Plaques not included)

*ALLPRICES INCLUDE USPS MAIL SHIPPING FEES*

18

USS ESSEX SHIP’S STORE ORDER FORM (REVISED Jan. 2015) Please, Use ONLY This Form To Order

ITEM Quantity/Price:

ESSEX BALL CAPS

USS ESSEX CV-9 cap _____ $20.00 ea . USS ESSEX CVA-9 cap _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX CVA-9 w/Ribbon bar _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX CVS-9 cap _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX CVS-9 w/Ribbon bar _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX CV-9 WW2 1941-1945 _____ $20.00 ea. NAVY Veteran (USS ESSEX on back) _____ $20.00 ea. MARINE Veteran (RED) _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX CV-9 Veteran _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX CVA-9 (Larger Print) _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX CVS-9 (Larger Print) _____ $20.00 ea. USS ESSEX LHD-2 (IRON Gator) _____ $20.00 ea.

CLOTHING Qty Price/Size

USS ESSEX Association White Golf Shirt…..…………… ____ $23.00/ ______USS ESSEX Association Adult T-Shirt ………………….. . ____ $16.00/ ______USS ESSEX Association Golf Shirt (Blueberry) ………… ____ $28.00 /______USS ESSEX Association BLUE Golf shirt ……………….. ____ $23.00 /______USS ESSEX Association Ladies Sport Pique (RED)……… ____ $26.00 /______USS ESSEX Association Ladies Sport Pique (White) ……. ____ $26.00 /______USS ESSEX Association Blue Sweatshirt ………………… ____ $27.00 /______USS ESSEX Association Embroidered 9/2 Logo jacket… ____ $52.00 /______

OTHER Merchandise USS ESSEX ZIPPO Lighters (Brass/Silver) ……………..... _____ $15.00 USS ESSEX Association (RED) Travel Tumbler ………... _____ $15.00 USS ESSEX LHD-2 (Blue) Travel Tumbler ……………... _____ $15.00 U.S. NAVY (Silver) Travel Tumbler …………………….. _____ $15.00 License Plate Frame ……………………………………… _____ $ 8.00 USS ESSEX Association Nylon Tote bag ……………….. _____ $11.00 USS ESSEX Association Logo 9/2 Lapel Pin …………… _____ $15.00 USS ESSEX Commemorative Challenge Coin ………….. _____ $11.00 USS ESSEX 9/2 Logo Challenge Coin………………….. _____ $11.00 USS ESSEX CV-9 Cap pin ……………………………… _____ $11.00

Total: _____/_____ Name: ______Address:______Apt/Suite/Lot#: (if applicable)______City: ______State: ______Zip Code: ______Phone#: ______Email address: ______Ordering Instructions: 1. Indicate the quantity and price of each item ordered. PayPal is now accepted at the Ship’ Store for purchase. 2. Indicates what size(s) needed on Clothing items. All Ship’s Store transaction shall be done through the 3. Include your contact information email or Phone number. www.ussessexassociation.com website only. Customers will continue 4. Make all checks payable to: USS ESSEX ASSOCIATION to have the option of printing out and mailing the check /money order along 5. MAIL the ORDER Form/Check to the Storekeeper: with the printed for as before. For those shipmates who prefer to use a credit card through the PayPal cart option now have that choice as well. NO PREVIOUS Editions of the Ship’s Store order forms will be accepted. Contact Thomas C Ferelli the Ship’ Store at [email protected] for any questions. 19808 N43rd Lane All charges include shipping. Use this form only, no others will be accepted. Glendale, AZ 85308-7390 Email: [email protected] Phone/Text to: 602-882-0375 19

USS ESSEX ASSOCIATION DUES NOTICE

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY and MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO THE U.S.S. ESSEX ASSN. DO NOT MAKE PAYABLE TO BOB PETERS . Membership cards will be issued and mailed by the Secretary. Mail to: EUGENE SCHMIDT 3823 WYOMING AVE. SW, WYOMING MI 49519 - 3659 Please check here only if this is a change in your address, phone number or email address. Remember, most of the time your phone # will also change when you move.

Name ______

Street Address ______

City / State / Zip ______

Phone # ______Email Address ______(Please circle the appropriate year you’re paying)

2015, 2016, 2017 Other (Explain Below) _____Years @ $25.00 per year $ ______

Other $ ______

Donations $ ______

TOTAL $ ______

You will not receive a dues notice by mail. Your only dues notice will be on our web site at www.ussessexcv9.org and printed in this B u c c a n e e r three times a year . Dues not paid by 31 December of the current year due will be dropped from our active roster. All mailings, including the B u c c a n e e r , will be discontinued. The date on your membership card indicates the year you are paid thru. Therefore, please keep your card handy to refer to your dues status and entry into our Annual General Membership Meeting. (Please tear out or copy and send with your remittance)

USS ESSEX ASSOCIATION 581 Conkle Rd. Hampton, GA 30228

FIRST CLASS MAIL

TO: