Piedmont Periscope April 2013

Inside this issue: FLAG ETIQUETTE th Base Contacts 2 On April 16 I got a overall I think they en- at the 2012 National chance to present our joyed the presentation. Convention. It has Officer’s Call 2 Base’s Flag Etiquette I have been giving these not shown up in the Base Meeting Minutes 4 program to about 30 Cub Scouts, Scout lead- presentations since 1995 National Magazine Holland Club Spotlight 11 ers, and some parents of and I truly enjoy talking yet, but contact me Cub Scout Pack 1. Pack to the kids of all ages SubVettes 13 and I’ll make sure 1’s Charter organization when I present this pro- you get the raw gram. That includes Vet News 14 is the Holy Comforter PowerPoint to allow Episcopal Church lo- “kids” in the Rotary Lost Boat — USS Grenadier 18 cated on Park Rd. Their Clubs, Lions Clubs, etc. you to customize it This program is avail- to your Base. It Constitution & Bylaws 20 Cubmaster is Quincy Acklen. I was contacted ability to all area groups, doesn’t matter who Challenge Coin History 21 by Jeff Williams-Tracy. so if your youth group at gets the credit for your church needs a program, it matters Funnies 23 The group was a little speaker, or your grand- younger than I usually that the program gets Base Calendar 29 son’s fifth grade teacher present to, but well ma- is looking for someone presented and our ture for their age and Flag gets the proper USSVI Creed to talk Flag Etiquette, receive the material have them give me a respect for the blood well. As usual, I get a call. To perpetuate the memory little “long winded” (no that was shed for it of our shipmates who gave not Moe(SS)) and had to Other Bases reading to keep us all Free. – their lives in the pursuit of hurry at the end, but this Newsletter, I Moe(SS) duties while serving their made this program Baseball game May 27 country. That their dedica- available to all Bases tion, deeds, and supreme $13/ticket—Moe(SS) sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward USS PICKEREL (SS 177) April 3, 1943 greater accomplishments. Lost Boats for April USS GRENADIER (SS 210) April 22, 1943 Pledge loyalty and patriot- USS GUNGEON (SS 211) April 18, 1944 “Sailors, rest your oars” ism to the United States of USS SNOOK (SS 279) April 8, 1945 America and its Constitu- USS THRESHER (SSN 593) April 10, 1963 tion. Page 2 Piedmont Periscope

CO’s Stateroom— Carolina Piedmont Base Commander Steve Bell

design. Stay tuned on very enjoyable event. talk about that. that one. The active duty guys We are rapidly ap- In any case, Charleston really treat the veterans proaching our annual was mostly social. That very well. Burnsville event. Every- made for a great time. If Even though not here thing is set up, just need you ever get down there, just yet, will be off again to get the drinks and I have had a fairly full do not overlook going to this weekend coming up snacks. If you are plan- month since our last the Hunley. That was to Wilmington, NC to ning on going, now is newsletter. We went to very interesting. Well attend the BB-55 (USS the time to get your reg- Charleston for the worth seeing. It does North Carolina) reunion istrations into me. I am Southeast Regional Con- look like one of our fel- banquet. It appears this sure we are going to vention. I must say it low NC bases will host may be their last one as have a good time as was really a great time. the 2014 convention. I it is getting difficult for usual. We look forward The meeting was very have already lined up the many of them to travel. to seeing most of you short (if you can believe guest speaker for that We are going there to there. that), so really nothing event. I also think we honor a different branch Our elections concluded to put out regarding that. will all (all NC bases) of our WWII veterans. last month at our meet- However, as has been kick in some to help As was put out before, ing. I have to thank you sent out via e-mail, a them out. They will our District received the all for having the confi- Charleston Base mem- have the lead, but am Regional Directors Dis- dence in me to keep ber is starting up the sure they will appreciate trict Award again. This right on going as your process to try to get assistance with both the happens because of what Base Commander. It Submarine Plates for registration desk and the each base within the dis- was not my plan to go South Carolina. I am hospitality room. We trict accomplishes. I am past four years, but cir- just trying to get a count will just have to see sure the Carolina Pied- cumstances were such to give him. I am sure what and if they want mont did their fair share that it just happened this process will not be a any assistance. in that. Well done to again. I am honored to short one. At some From Charleston, came you all. be your Base Com- point, once they really home, did the laundry, We also did a trip to Le- mander, however, at get organized, there will then headed to Norfolk vine Children’s Hospital some point, someone probably be a contest of for the Submarine Birth- and what a joy that is. else needs to step up and some sort regarding the day Ball. That was a However, I will let Jack give me a break. I also

Carolina Piedmont Contacts Base Commander Steve Bell [email protected] 704 824 3510 Vice Commander Jack Jeffries jcckjeffries@interlink-café.com 704 –764-5211 Base Secretary Mike Hubbell [email protected] 803-628-1908 Base Treasurer Lee Hickerson [email protected] 704-573-9480 Chief of the Base Paul Myers [email protected] 704-28904650 Base Chaplin Raymond Fritz [email protected] 803 831 7235 Base Storekeeper Jeff Nieberding [email protected] 803-366-9255 Holland Club Walt Sealy [email protected] 803-327-5661 Coordinator Newsletter Editor E. Dale Moses [email protected] 704-248-7610 Issue 1303 Page 3 think I can speak for the thing. really difficult to get all ing to be a backup. I other officers elected that Dale is working ex- the team members to- know Dale would appre- they appreciate your con- tremely hard at getting gether on the same day ciate that very much. fidence as well. I will our new “Halfway Night” for both rehearsal and I look forward to seeing admit that we do have a show, put on by the Bilge the actual shows. Hav- most of you at our next pretty good thing going Rat Productions, under- ing some backups would meeting on the 27th. for our base. Guess if it way. It is the third theme surely help. So if you Please keep safe as we isn’t broke, then don’t fix or show for that group. are not part of the cast need each of you in it. But, new leadership at He can always use to have right now, please con- good health. May God times is also a good some backup people. It is sider at least volunteer- bless you and the United States of America.

XO’s Stateroom — Vice Commander Jack Jeffries The Supply Shack- Jeff Nieberding 1990 aboard the USS Al- important that your snail Carolina Piedmont buquerque and resides in mail address is correct, if Jackets are still available Ft Mill with his spouse it is wrong, then it adds to to order, several mem- Paulette. Bob was RM2 the National cost of pay- bers have ordered theirs (SS) we can sail with a ing for the magazine to be already. USSVI full radio shack. returned as undeliverable vests are also available and the return postage is to order thru the SK. We were excited by our first class this is very ex- Patches, the SK is CAROLINA PIED- visit to Levine Children’s pensive. Please review now able to order MONT ROCKS- The Hospital where we hon- your National roster and patches from BC Patch base has been fairly quiet ored 18 patients with let me know of any LLC at wholesale prices. since the last Piedmont Kaps and Certificates changes. If you have This is usually $2 - $3 Periscope except for get- making them Honorary trouble getting the Na- less per patch than we ting things ready for our Submariners. If can tional roster open once normally see. Let the annual weekend visit to please make an effort to again let me know and I SK know what you the Monument located on join us on our next visit. will try to help you. Until need. Moonshine Mountain Our base would like to next month may GOD scheduled for 17-18 May, conduct a survey con- BLESS YOU, Jack if you still need to make cerning how you receive reservations please con- the American Submariner tact me. If you have not magazine. This is impor- visited yet, it is a fun tant survey where costs filled trip with plenty of can be lowered for the Flag Trivia—Where did action. We want all National program. Please this Flag fly in our Na- members to attend if pos- do all a favor and let me tion’s history? See Page sible. I will be sending know if you want the 25 more info out as we get magazine in the hard closer to the date. copy or if you would like We would like to wel- to have it on line. If you come Bob Schilke to the go online you can view base. Bob qualified in all the past copies of the magazine. It is also very Page 4 Piedmont Periscope

Machinery One — Mike Hubbell, Base Secretary

Carolina-Piedmont Base Minutes For March 23th, 2013

Call Meeting to Order 1900hrs. the meeting was called to order by Base Commander Steve Bell. Invocation The Invocation was given by Base Chaplin Ray Fritz.. Pledge of Allegiance The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Steve Bell. Tolling of the Boats The Tolling of the Boats was presentenced by Ray Fritz and Paul Myers. Member Introductions There were 28 members present. - Base Group Photo for the USS Thresher Anniversary Tom Kelly took a group photo of base members and our wives to be included in the online web-cast of the 50 Year Anniversary of the loss of the USS Thresher. Special Presentations Holland Club Inductions: Walt Sealy inducted Shipmate Dave Peck inducted into the Holland Club for 2013, in recognition for being Qualified in Submarines for 50 years. Reading/Approval of the last Meeting Minutes The motion to accept the Minutes of the Base Meeting held on February 23rd, 2013 in Carolina-Piedmont Periscope News Letter, with one correction (the date of the next meeting was corrected to read 23 March 2013) was made and seconded. The motion carried. Reading/Approval of the Treasurer’s Report The Treasure’s Report was given by Lee Hickerson. As of March 23rd, 2013 the following funds where available to the Base. CURRENT BALANCE $5,840.33 MEMEMORIAL RESTERATION FUNDS $ 542.50 KAPS-4-KIDS $1,921.05 USSVI Scholarship Fund $ 46.00 BASE FUNDS AVAILABLE $3.330.78 Old Business None New Business -USS Thresher 50th Anniversary Assistance Steve Bell reported to the membership that on April 6th the Thresher Base will present a web-cast of the 50th Anniversary of the loss of the USS Thresher. As a result of the Sequester, funding from the Navy for this event was cut off. Thresher Base-USSVI requests that the bases help fund this once in a life time event. The national Commander assures the membership that excess funds will be returned to the bases (Post meeting note is the funding levels were met and excess would be used for future Thresher Memorial Services). Steve Page 5 Piedmont Periscope

Base Minutes (con’t) Bell passed the bucket for individual donations. The motion was made and seconded for a Base Donation of $200.00 plus the funds raised in the bucket is sent to the Thresher Base to help cover their costs for this me- morial event. The motion passed, and a total of $450.00 will be sent by check on Monday (3/25/2013).

-USS Scorpion Memorial Service Sponsorship Steve Bell reported on the 99 for 99 programs for the upcoming Memorial Service for the USS Scorpion. Steve Bell further reported that he had already made a donation of $99.00 in the name of the Base. The mo- tion was made and seconded for Steve Bell to be reimbursed from Base Funds. The motion carried. -Store Keeper’s Report Jeff Neiberding reports that he has Base Challenge Coins, Patches, Stickers and a few 2013 USSVI Calen- dars’ available. Good of the Order -Base Officers Elections- Base Commander Steve bell opened the floor to nominations for the Carolina-Piedmont Base elected offi- cers. As no new nominations have been added, Jeff Nieberding closed nominations and held the Base Offi- cer’s Elections. The following shipmates are the elected officer for the 2013/2014 term. They will be sworn in during the NC SUBVETS Meeting in May at Burnsville. Base Commander – Steve Bell Vice Commander – Jack Jeffries Base Secretary - Michael Hubbell Base Treasurer - Raymond Zieverink -Burnsville 2013 Steve Bell reminded all members that the Annual NC SUBVETS meeting in Burnsville, NC will be held on May 17th and 18th, 2013. Registration forms have been sent to all members via E-mail, Steve requests a prompt response for those planning on attending. Steve reminded all those interested that a few rooms at the Skyline Village Inn were still available. Also the overflow hotel was also still available. -Regional Convection Steve Bell reminded the membership of the upcoming Convention on April 7th thru April 11th, in Charleston SC. He stated that a few rooms at the host hotel might still be available. -Lost Boat Brochures Steve Bell reported on the follow up on the brochures. USSVI National has ordered a production run of 10k brochures. Steve Bell ordered 200 for the base at a cost of $15.00. He expects delivery before our next meet- ing. -Color Guard Update Steve Bell reported on the efforts by Dale Moses and the members of the Color Guard to produce a video for the Carolina Panthers. This video was made as an audition for the honor to present the Colors at the opening of a Panthers football game in Charlotte. The Carolina Panthers organization will review the videos submit- ted in late spring or early summer. -Memorial Day Weekend The membership was reminded that the NC SUBVETS will again participate in this year’s Thomasville Me- morial Day Parade. Further details will be sent out by Jack Jeffries. After the parade those interested may join with the Color Guard as they present the Colors before the Knight’s baseball game in Fort Mill. Ticket prices are $13.00. Members were reminded to tell the ticket office that you are with the SUBVETS. -Kaps-4-Kids Tom Kelly reported on his experience during the Victory Junction visit. Jack Jeffries also reminded the Page 6 Piedmont Periscope

Base Minutes (con’t) members of the upcoming visit to the Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte. This visit will be at 1400 on April 16th. Up to 8 additional members and wives are encouraged to attend this worthy function. Please con- tact Jack if you wish to attend. The Base is planning on additional events at the Jeff Gordon Children’s Hos- pital as well. Jack will contact the membership with the upcoming dates when they become available. -Rock Hill Massing of the Colors Walt Sealy reviewed the purpose of the Massing of the Colors. All members are encouraged to attend the Massing of the Colors at the Rock Hill High School Auditorium at 1500 on April 28th, 2013. The CPB Color Guard will be presenting our American Flag and the base flag. USSVI National and base Chaplin will be giving the invocation. -Eagle Scout Program Tom Hulme reported on the expansion of the USSVI Eagle Scout program. Tom is a Scout master himself. This program recognizes the top achievement of the Boy Scouts of America. The USSVI as added those young women in the Girl Scouts and those in the Sea Scout programs. Steve Bell noted that the Base will continue to support this program and will expand it to these other worthy groups. -News Letter The award winning Piedmont Periscope News Letter deadline for April will be April 18th, 2013. -Next Meeting The next meeting of the Carolina-Piedmont base will be held on April 27th, 2013 at the VFW in Fort Mill. Dinner will start at 1730. The SUBVETTES will be providing the meal again this month. Benediction The Benediction was given by Ray Fritz. Motion to Adjourn The motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried.

Respectfully Submitted Michael Hubbell Base Secretary

From the COB - Paul Myers

Thank you for letting me be your COB this past year. I truly feel blessed to have such a great group to be part of. Rick Petitt will be taking over this position . May God Bless you and yours.— Paul Issue 1303 Page 7

Picture taken at Levine Children’s Hospital: Seated Ma Bell, Lady J (Carol Jeffries) Back from left-Rick Petitt, Steve Bell, Jim Taylor, Jack Jeffries, John Wardean

Welcome Aboard

Bob Schilke— who qualified on the USS Albuquerque SSN 706 in 1990. He now lives in Ft. Mill with his wife Paulette. Welcome both of you to the Carolina Piedmont Base.

Page 8 Piedmont Periscope

Chaplain’s Corner - Ray Fritz, National Chaplain You can find all the details on this well done site: SSN-593. Thresher was Passover [Pesach lost on April 11, 1963. http:// (PAY-sahkh)] for Jews. This is the invitation: threshermemorialkit- For the follower of tery.sharepoint.com/ USS THRESHER (SSN Christ, the Passover is Pages/ 593) significant in that we THHRESHER- believe Jesus was the TOWN of KITTERY, BASE2013SERVICE.asp Passover Lamb of God. I MAINE - FLAG DEDI- x pray you had a Happy CATION IN MEMOR- Easter and a Happy IAM - 50th Passover. 50th Annual USS USS Thresher SSN- Thresher Memorial Ser- vice Fellow subvets and sub- 593 hosted by USSVI vettes, By the time you read this Thresher Base Happy Anniversary there will have been a Saturday, April 6, 2013 Submarine Service memorial service of the at 1 p.m. 50th Anniversary of the April 11, 1900 – April loss of the USS Thresher Portsmouth High School 11, 2013 We have just celebrated two of the most impor- tant festivals of the Christian/Judeo calen- dar:

Easter for the Christian and

To contact Ray for your Chaplain needs — Chaplain Ray [email protected] Issue 1303 Page 9

Making that journey sticks closer than a Are you trustworthy without the help of an brother. Proverbs 18:24 and honest? You will inertial navigation sys- The book of Proverbs is be attracted to people tem and well trained and all about wisdom - or who are trustworthy qualified personnel skillful living that is and honest. If you want could have been disas- good for young and old. friends who share your trous. faith and are growing Mark Your Calendars It is a good book to in- : In life, how well we troduce to our grandchil- in their relationship Sunday, April 28 - navigate is also depend- dren. In it we read, re- with Christ, you'll need “Massing of the Colors” ent in large part on the peatedly, about the im- to focus on growing Ceremony at the Rock quality and character of portance of choosing the spiritually as well. Do Hill High School at 3:00 those we follow. The right friends. Those peo- you want friends who PM. friends we choose, our ple we spend our time will help when life gets tough? Then be that to Plan now, to join us, and trusted inner circle, can with will either make us others: be loyal, be- bring family and friends make or break us. We more skilled at living or lieve the best in them with you! can also make or break lead us into trouble. The and defend them when them. Apostle Paul writes: Walking with the Wise others want to tear Growing up my parents Do not be deceived: When the USS Nautilus them down. If you would always caution: "Bad company ruins SSN(571) and the USS want friends who do "Choose your friends good morals." 1 Corin- Skate SSN(578) made the right things, then wisely." In those days thians 15:33 their historic ventures you do the right things. they would ask me who for the first time, under It really is clear and sim- Jesus said: "So what- I was going to be with the Polar Icecap in 1958 ple: ever you wish that oth- before they gave their they were entering un- ers would do to you, do okay. We did the same Walk with wise friends = charted waters. It was also to them, for this is with our kids and we get wiser. summertime and there the Law and the pray our kids are doing were openings in the ice Follow foolish friends = Prophets.” Matthew the same for our grand- so that the ship could be get into trouble. 7:12 children. The influence surfaced but it was till of peers is profound - There are three great Spend time with friends uncharted waters. for better and for worse. principles in these pas- who are wise. It isn’t In February the USS As we grow older sages that will help us be difficult to figure out if Skate ventured once trusted friendships be- wise and walk with the a friend is wise. If you more into the waters un- come even more signifi- wise: are a Christ follower, just ask yourself these der the Polar ice. This cant. Be a good friend. Do time there were no open- four simple questions: The writer of Proverbs you want to attract ing in the ice, only thin tells us this: faithful friends? Be- a. Do they follow Jesus, but we didn’t know how come the type of and are they growing in thin. We trusted the cap- He who walks with wise friend you want them His ways? tain, the navigator and men will be wise, but the to be. Don’t like dis- b. Do they do the right everyone who used their companion of fools will honest people. Don’t thing even when it's hard? skills to traverse the un- be destroyed. Proverbs be dishonest. Don’t c. Do they make other known and to success- 13:20 like people who gos- people around them better? fully surface through the A man of many compan- sip. Don’t gossip. Do they stay close when ice several times includ- ions may come to ruin, Don’t like hypo- times are tough? ing at the North Pole. but there is a friend who crites. Don’t be one. (Con’t on Page 10) Page 10 Piedmont Periscope

(Chaplain Con’t) plate of eggs, sausage and I forget birthdays The Golfing Don't have too many and extremely burned and anniversaries just friends. Now that biscuits in front of my like everyone else. Preacher may seem odd but dad. I remember waiting But what I've learned There was this preacher can you ever have too to see if anyone noticed! over the years is that who was an avid golfer. many friends? We Yet, all my dad did was learning to accept each Every chance he could hear all the time that reach for his biscuit, other’s faults and choos- get, he could be found on life is all about rela- smile at my Mom, and ing to celebrate each the golf course swinging tionships. The answer ask me how my day was other's differences - is away. It was an obses- is “yes” and “No.” at school. I don't remem- one of the most important sion. We need an inner cir- ber what I told him that keys to creating a One Sunday was a pic- cle of friends who are night, but I do remember healthy, growing, and proven trustworthy ture perfect day for golf- watching him smear but- lasting relationship. ing. The sun was shining, over time. These peo- ter and jelly on that ugly ple are our “Go to” And that's my prayer for no clouds in the sky, and burned biscuit. people that we can you today... that you will the temperature was just count on to be honest He ate every bite of that learn to take the good, right. The preacher was with us no matter thing... never made a face the bad, and the ugly in a quandary as to what what. Jesus had a nor uttered a word about parts of your life and lay to do ... play golf or give close relationship it! them at the feet of God. the Sunday service. Because in the end, He's with Peter, James and When I got up from the Shortly, the urge to play the only One who will be John within the group table that evening, I re- golf overcame him. He able to give you a rela- of twelve. He had a member hearing my Mom called an assistant, told tionship where a burnt deeper level of trust apologize to my dad for him he was sick and biscuit isn't a deal- and closeness with burning the biscuits. I'll asked the assistant to take breaker! then than He did with never forget what he care of the Sunday the rest. said: "Honey, I love We could extend this to church service for him. burned biscuits every any relationship. In fact, Friends, who are truly He packed the car up and now and then." understanding is the base wise, help us navigate drove three hours to a of any relationship, be it life successfully. Perhaps Later that night, I went to golf course where no one a husband-wife or parent more importantly, our kiss Daddy good night would recognize him. -child or friendship! being a wise friend brings and I asked him if he Happily, he began to play life and hope to others as really liked his biscuits Don't put the key to your the course. well. burned. He wrapped me happiness in someone An angel up above was in his arms and said, else's pocket - keep it in A long, long time ago, watching the preacher "Your Mom put in a hard your own. when I was a kid...... and was quite perturbed. day at work today and So, please pass me a bis- When I was a kid, my He went to God and said, she's real tired. And be- cuit, and yes, the burned Mom liked to make sides - a little burned bis- "Look at the preacher. He breakfast food for dinner one will do just fine. – cuit never hurt anyone!" should be punished for Author Unknown every now and then. I re- what he is doing." God As I've grown older, I've member one night in par- nodded in agreement. ticular when she had thought about that many made breakfast after a times. Life is full of im- The preacher teed up on long, hard day at work. perfect things and imper- the first hole. He swung fect people. I'm not the at the ball and hit a per- On that evening so long best at hardly anything, fect drive, straight as an ago, my Mom placed a Issue 1303 Page 11 arrow, four-hundred Holland Club Member in the Spotlight yards right to the green, where it gently rolled into told her that Submarine ple of months left and the cup (as they say in School was in New somehow got sent back to basketball, "nothing but London and that would the yards in Norfolk to net"). A picture perfect get them back to the serve on SSBN631 hole-in-one. He was East Coast, so Charlie (Ulysses S. Grant) for 2 amazed and excited. put in for Sub School months Newport News as The angel was a little and the rest is history. their training Chief. shocked. He turned to Charlie first boat was After the Navy, Charlie the Crevalle in which took a job with Duke God and said, "Begging This month’s Holland he qualified and made Power in Charlotte and Your pardon, but I Club member in the Spot- IC3(SS). Charlie fin- worked in the Corporate thought you were going light is Charlie Cross ICC ished his kiddie-cruise Quality Assurance Office to punish him." (SS). Charlie is a primary and left, but stayed in with another Carolina Pied- member of the Nat Greene God smiled. "I did! the USNR. After being mont Holland Club mem- Base, but has been a long Think about it -- who out for 6 to 8 months ber, and Holland Club Co- time member of the Caro- can he tell?" and not really finding ordinator, Walt Sealy. (I lina Piedmont Base. May God bless you all real good jobs, Charlie know, it’s hard to believe Charlie lives in Concord decided to re-enlist. Walt in QA? (ha)) day, every day! with his wife of over 56 His next duty station Thank You Chief Charlie Chaplain Ray years, Carolyn. was the USS Tigrone for your years of service, I Charlie earned his Dol- SS419. This was about know you taught someone phins back in 1958 aboard the time the Navy was that taught one of us along the USS Crevalle SS-291. WANTED looking for us Nukes the way. Hopefully, we And served on many other We still need old wigs, and Charlie was off to passed that knowledge on boats during his 22 years suitcases, and anything Bainbridge then to the also. of service, but let’s see that could be used for S3G prototype in up- how he got there. props for Bilge Rat Pro- state NY (been there- Charlie grew up in James- ductions. Contact Moe down that to both town, NY and entered the (SS) at [email protected] places). US Navy Reserve while and he pick them up. After prototype Charlie still in High School back was now a nuke electri- Also Moe is looking for in 1956. Charlie decided cian and went to the some old lawn mower while in high school that USS Woodrow Wilson wheels for a private pro- the Navy might be a good SSBN622 to do 6 pa- ject for his grandkids. place to get an education trols. Then is was off Will take the whole so out of high school to IC “B” School and mower if that’s how you Charlie did the old “kiddie then to the yards on the want to get rid of it. I’ll -cruise from 17 to 21. James Monroe scrap it for you. Contact Charlie was in San Diego SSBN624 with 8 pa- me at [email protected] for IC School and he and trols after yard out of or call 704-248-7610. Us his wife went to Chula HI. Then back to the old MMs love to tinker Vista to visit a old guppy yards in Norfolk and and it gives me some- boat, he believes was the one more patrol on the thing to do when Colleen USS Spinax. They both Monroe. By that time, sends me to the garage. remember that dreadful Charlie only had a cou- smell. But Charlie had Page 12 Piedmont Periscope

Kathy Boone Al Vera (Paul Myer’s Brother-in-law)

April Janice Holm 4/01 Jolanda Lynch 4/02 Linda Zieverink 4/09 Paul Simerly 4/09 Donna Blassingham 4/11 Linda Crystal 4/14 Rudy Hernandez 4/14 George Birmingham 4/21 Emma Howell 4/22 Susan Kelly 4/22

“If Stupidity got us into this mess, then why can't it get us out?" April ” - Will Rogers Mary and Robert Bickford - 4/21 Judy and William Hickerson - 4/23 Karen and Michael Toomey - 4/24 Issue 1303 Page 13

SubVettes—President Sandra Myers Hello Sassy Sisters, vice project. see you at our April Hope all of you and Our meal is another meeting but Paul and yours are doing well. "this and that" I are ready to go to I mailed off 2 pack- please do not forget Texas to be with his ages, one with the our recruiters , se- sister and brother-in- Chapsticks we dis- cret sisters and law should she need cussed, and one that I your pen pal from us since Al is ill found in a magazine the spouses from with stage 4 cancer. with toothpaste and USS North Caro- May God bless you brushes to "Forgotten lina if you took and yours. Troops" which that one. Love Sandra gives us another ser- Hopefully we will

Meringue-Topped Strawberries & Rhubarb

Poaching brings out the flavorful strawberry and rhubarb juices with minimal effort. An airy meringue on top of the poached fruit is a healthy (and gorgeous) stand-in for a heavier whipped-cream or ice cream top- ping Ingredients Fruit 1 pound fresh or frozen (not thawed) rhubarb, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, (optional) 2 cups (1 pint) fresh or frozen (not thawed) strawberries, hulled and halved or quartered, Meringue 3 large egg whites, at room temperature, or equivalent dried egg whites (see Ingredient Note) 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/3 cup sugar Preparation: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. Stir rhubarb, sugar and ginger (if using) in a medium bowl. Divide the mixture evenly among six 8 -ounce ramekins (see Variation). Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and cover tightly with foil. Bake until the rhubarb is softened, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and remove the foil. 3. Carefully tuck strawberries between the chunks of rhubarb. (Do not stir or the rhubarb will break apart.) 4.Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue mixing until the egg whites are glossy and hold peaks. Spoon beaten egg whites over each portion of fruit. Use a thin spatula to spread the meringue into decorative peaks. 5. Return the ramekins to the oven and bake until the meringue is lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Let cool for at least 10 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. Variation: This dish can be made in a deep-dish pie pan instead of individual ramekins; the recipe and timing are the same.

Page 14 Piedmont Periscope

Your Veteran News From the RAQ Bulletin WWII Submariners: the national U.S. Subma- coming after his friend Jack Hoenes and his rine Veterans of WWII died. The national group comrades who served on disbanded last fall and was formed in 1955 and VETERANS NEWS submarines during gave up its charter, said chartered by Congress in by the RAQ Bulletin World War II know the Don Beach, 70, of 1981. He is not sure number. Fifty-two. That Granger Township, the when the Northeast Ohio is how many submarines president of the group. group got started. Beach, sunk or were missing who retired from the during the war. For trucking industry, said Hoenes, the number in- Even though Beach is he has a great respect for cludes a submarine that an associate member be- his comrades who served could have taken his life. cause he served on the on submarines before Nearly 375 officers and nuclear submarines USS him. “In World War II, Deadline for 3,131 enlisted men died Jack and Pollack years they didn’t have snorkels the next issue on those ships. Hoenes after the war ended, he is on the submarines and was one of about a half- president because there they had to surface every of the dozen veterans who at- was no one else who day to run their diesel tended the most recent wanted to run the meet- engines to charge their Piedmont meeting of the Northeast ings. “Two to three sub- batteries, which left Ohio Chapter of the U.S. mariners a day are dying them as targets on the Periscope Submarine Veterans of nationally,” he said, surface,” he said. Com- World War II. A plaque pointing out that only 2 ments from other mem- will be on a table at the meeting percent of the sailors bers of the group in- May 10th. room in the Acker- who served during cluded: Moore Memorial Post World War II served on submarines. Beach’s Jack Hoenes, 87, of Please have all 4738/American Legion Bay Village, who Hall Post 175 is in- group is made up of items to eight World War II sub- worked 42 years scribed with the names on the railroad as of 46 members who have mariners, five of their Moe(SS) at wives and three of their a dispatcher, was died since the group has serving on the been meeting. “There daughters, eight widows Edi- of World War II subma- USS Trigger aren’t many World War when he was tor_periscope@ II submariners left,” said riners, and several asso- ciate members. One of asked if he Ellis Augsburger, 88, of wanted to switch Att.net Akron, a member of the the associate members is submarines and group who served on the an Army veteran who by then. used to bring a World serve on the USS USS Hawkbill. While Chub. The Trig- the Northeast Ohio War II submariner to the meetings and continued ger later would group continues to meet, be sunk in the Issue 1303 Page 15

war. “I figured operator under an aircraft carrier,” out of the water,” the good Lord the call number he said. Hansen, he said. The sub- was on my side,” W8GTJ. He who grew up in up- marine dove to said Hoenes, who joined the group per Michigan, has the bottom of the went on three right after the lived in Peninsula ocean. It re- patrols in the Pa- war. “I’ve seen a for about 40 years. mained there — cific during his lot of them come Jim Bock, 87, of War- only about 100 time on the and a lot of them ren, who served on feet below the Chub. go but I’m still the USS Corporal, surface — for Roland Romito, 87, here,” said Ro- which was commis- several hours to of Broadview mito, who grew sioned in early avoid detection. Heights served up in Bedford. 1945, has been a “They went back on the USS Dewey Hansen, 86, longtime member and forth over Sperry, a subma- of Peninsula, of the group. “It’s us,” said Augs- rine tender, a who owns Hud- quite a group of fel- burger, who was a ship that serviced son Extrusions, lows but we are torpedo man on submarines in the worked as an dwindling down,” his submarine. water. Romito electrician state- said Bock, who “We got scared, estimates during side on a school worked for the fam- of course,” he his time as a ra- submarine where ily-owned business said. dio repairman, he young sailors Bock Transfer and Lucille Hourigan, 88, worked on radios were trained to Storage for 47 of Warren, whose on 32 submarines be submariners in years, including husband, Michael and he is sure 1944 and 1945. several years as Hourigan, taught some of those “It was good pay president. radar to sailors on submarines never and good food,” Ellis Augsburger made submarines when came back from said Hansen, who five patrols on the he served in the the war. “You added that sub- USS Hawkbill and Navy, still goes to either came back mariners were one frightening six- the meetings. Her or you didn’t — paid 50 percent hour period still husband died four there was no in more than other stands out in his years ago. She between,” said sailors. He said it mind. That was off worked as a pho- Romito, who was a myth that it the coast of Singa- tographer at a worked in the was super pore in the South Pratt & Whitney auto parts busi- crowded on a China Sea, when aircraft factory as ness after the submarine. “We a “Rosie the Riv- Japanese ships were war, repaired car had more cubic close by. “One eter” during the radios on the side feet of space per depth charge went war but loves to and is still an man on a sub off under our bow spend time with amateur radio than they did on and blew our bow her late husband’s Page 16 Piedmont Periscope

submarine ness Card from You can get a busi- pals.“They are Chase offers 5 ness card even if you still nice to me,” points per dollar don't have a business. she said. spent at office These cards are great for [Source: Akron Beacon supply stores and employees who travel on VETERANS NEWS Journal | Jim Carney | on telephone, company business. They by the RAQ Bulletin 25 Mar 2013 ++] television, and also make sense for any- Internet service. one who has some form Saving Money: There was a time when there You can't get this of home-based income. was virtually no differ- deal from any of This could be selling ence between consumer their consumer things on eBay, freelanc- and business credit credit cards. ing, even babysitting. cards. But since the en- The American Ex- And once you have the actment of the CARD press Simply- card, you're free to use it Act of 2009, consumer Cash business for non-business pur- credit cards are covered card also offers 5 chases. You do not need Got a Story? by new protections, pri- percent cash back an Employer Identifica- tion Number (EIN) to Sent it to marily affecting things on purchases like late and over-limit from office sup- apply. When you fill out Moe(SS) fees, as well as how in- ply stores and an application for a busi- terest rates are charged telephone ser- ness credit card, it asks at on balances. Business vices, and 4 % you to provide an Em- cards were exempt from cash back on ployer Identification Edi- many of these protec- gasoline at U.S. Number, or EIN, the business equivalent of a tor_periscope tions. If you carry a bal- stand-alone gas ance, you shouldn't be stations, includ- Social Security number. @att.net looking for a reward ing at Costco for If you don't have an EIN, credit card, business or purchases up to however, as a sole pro- otherwise: You should $7,000 per year prietor, you're allowed to find one with the lowest (1% thereafter). use your Social Security interest rate. But if you Better than most number instead. This pay off your balance gasoline cards. isn't dishonest, it's what each month, and are 2% cash back at sole proprietors are sup- looking for the best re- U.S. restaurants, posed to do. In fact, wards, you might find and 1% back many applications ex- them with a business with all other plain that customers card. Business cards of- purchases. There should provide their So- fering better rewards. is no annual fee cial Security number if For example: with your paid they do not have an EIN. Bottom line, if you pay The Ink Plus Busi- Costco member- ship. off your balance every Issue 1303 Page 17 month, the best card is Protecting VA bene- the House-passed budget area as a possible location the one with the biggest fits from COLA resolution reflects dra- to lay down an oil pipe. rewards. If that's what cuts, including matically different budget The submarine had a spe- you're looking for, the “chained priorities than the Sen- cial coating on the hull. It there's no reason to ex- CPI” suggested ate’s. Given those dra- was a synthetic rubber clude business cards by many COLA matic differences, the like- coating designed to sig- from your search.| critics; lihood of House and Sen- nificantly reduce its radar [Source: Money- Extending VA health ate leaders reaching a signal. The "U-486" lies TalksNews | Jason Steele care coverage to compromise seems slim. some two kilometres (1.25 | 10 Jan 2013 ++] qualifying de- What’s different this year miles) from the German DoD 2014 Budget: pendent children is a recent law change to "U-864" submarine, which For the first time in four until age 26; and suspend congressional was also sunk in 1945 years, the Senate passed salaries if each chamber with dozens of tonnes of a budget resolution (S. Improving veterans’ failed to pass a budget mercury on board, a dan- Con. Res 8) outlining access to health resolution. They’ve each gerous cargo which has spending limits and pri- care in rural ar- now done that now, so caused politicians head- orities for the next fiscal eas. their pay is safe. There aches for years. They have year. Among other was no penalty if they been examining how to MOAA applauds the things, it envisions re- failed to agree. [Source: best limit the environ- efforts of multiple sena- pealing the Medicare tors who worked to in- MOAA Leg Up 29 Mar mental risks posed by the payment formula that clude the latter provi- 2013 ++] mercury, hesitating be- now requires a 27- sions in the budget reso- Note of Interest: tween whether to lift the percent cut in Medicare wreck -- it is also broken lution. But it’s important WWII Sub. A German and TRICARE payments in two parts -- or to cover to understand it will be World War II submarine as of Jan. 1, 2014. On it in a hard sarcophagus. an uphill battle to get that was sunk with a crew issues directly affecting these changes into law. of 48 has been found off [Source: Various 1-15 the military and veterans First, most were in- Norway's coast during Mar 2013 ++] community, the resolu- cluded in “contingent work on an oil pipe. The tion included provisions Don’t forgot! May reserve fund” provisions. "U-486" was torpedoed 27th is Baseball concerning: That means the sponsor- and broken in two by a Night at the Charlotte Expanding eligibility ing senator would like to British submarine in Knight Stadium— for concurrent see it happen, but it April 1945 shortly after Seats ar $13 per per- receipt of mili- would have to be done leaving the western Nor- son— call Moe(SS) tary retired pay on a budget-neutral basis wegian town of Bergen. to reserve your seat and VA disability — meaning something There were no survivors. compensation; else must be cut to pay prior to May 15th. Lying at a depth of some Your CPB Color Ending the deduction for it. That’s why Con- 250 metres (820 feet), the gress hasn’t done these Guard will be pre- of VA survivor wreck was found when senting the Colors. benefits from things in the past — un- Norwegian oil company Survivor Benefit willingness to make the Statoil was scouting the 704-248-7610 Plan annuities; offsetting cuts. Second, Page 18 Piedmont Periscope

Lost Boats— USS Grenadier SS-210 Harbor, she sailed for can fleet in a bloody but nausea from chlorine gas the Pacific to join the brilliant battle handed poisoning for the re- submarine fleet. the Imperial Navy its mainder of the patrol. COMSUBPAC patrols, first defeat in some three To increase the misery, 1942 - Grenadier’s first hundred years. Grena- on 20 November Grena- war patrol from 4 Febru- dier’s third war patrol dier spotted a Ryūjō ary to 23 March 1942 was in the Truk area, class aircraft carrier, es- took her near the Japa- heavily patrolled by en- corted by a cruiser and a destroyer, heading USS Grenadier (SS-210), nese home islands, off emy ships and planes. through the Strait of a Tambor-class submarine, the coast of Honshū, and Although she sighted Makassar too distant to was the first ship of the brought her several tar- some 28 Japanese ships, shoot. Grenadier sur- United States Navy to be gets but no sinkings. On enemy planes effectively faced to radio the aircraft named for the grenadier 12 April Grenadier de- hampered her, and she carrier's location and fish, relatives of cod that parted Pearl Harbor for returned to her new base, course to Fremantle in are very common in her second war patrol, Fremantle, Australia, hope that another sub- bathyal and abyssal habi- along the Shanghai- empty-handed. marine could capitalize tats. Yokohama and Nagasaki Deployment to Australia on it. Her keel was laid down by -Formosa shipping lanes. - The Malay Barrier was Grenadier’s fifth war Portsmouth Navy Yard in On 1 May she sank the the site of Grenadier’s patrol, under the com- Kittery, Maine, in April soviet merchant ship fourth war patrol from mand of LCDR John Al- 1940. She was launched on "Angarstroy". On 8 May 13 October to 10 De- lison Fitzgerald, between 29 November 1940 spon- she torpedoed and sank cember. After laying a 1 January and 20 Febru- sored by Mrs. Walter S. one of her most impor- minefield off Haiphong, ary 1943, brought her Anderson, wife of the Di- tant kills of the war, Indochina, the subma- considerably better for- rector of Naval Intelligence transport Taiyō Maru. rine made an unsuccess- and commissioned on 1 Post-war examination of ful attack on a large May 1941 with Lieutenant Japanese records showed freighter. During the Commander Allen R. Joyce Taiyō Maru to be more severe depth charging in command. than just the ordinary which followed, sea wa- Pre-World War II service - transport; she was en ter seeped into the bat- On 20 June 1941 Grenadier route to the East Indies teries; Grenadier’s crew participated in the search with a group of Japanese suffered headaches and for O-9 (SS-70), which had scientists, economists, failed to surface after a and industrial experts deep test dive, and was pre- bent on expediting the sent two days later as me- exploitation of the con- morial exercises were con- quered territory. Their ducted over the spot where loss was a notable blow O-9 and her crew lay. After to the enemy war effort. On 25 May Grenadier shakedown in the Carib- bean Sea, Grenadier re- was diverted from her turned to Portsmouth on 5 patrol area to Midway November for refit. Less Island, where she formed than three weeks after the part of the submarine Japanese attack on Pearl patrol line as the Ameri- Issue 1303 Page 19 tune than earlier patrols. 21 April, Grenadier spot- doning ship. A Japanese SERVICE A 75-ton schooner fell ted, and was simultane- plane attacked the stricken victim to her deck guns ously spotted by, a Japa- submarine; but Grenadier, 10 January, and two nese plane. The sub though dead in the water provided by Walt Sealy days later Grenadier dived, and as it passed and to all appearances sighted a small tanker 130 feet her exec com- helpless, blazed away with with a barge in tow. mented "we ought to be machine guns. She hit the I become confused Judging the target not safe now." Just then, plane on its second pass. when I hear the word worth a torpedo, she bombs rocked Grenadier As the damaged plane "Service" used with slipped silently into the and heeled her over 15 veered off, its torpedo column behind the two to 20 degrees. Power landed about 200 yards these agencies: Japanese ships. At dusk and lights failed com- from the boat and ex- Internal Revenue she battle surfaced. pletely and the fatally ploded. 'Service' With binoculars lashed wounded ship settled to Loss - Opening all vents, to the deck guns as the bottom at 270 feet. Grenadier’s crew aban- US Postal 'Service' sights, she raked tanker She tried to make repairs doned ship and watched and barge sinking them while a fierce fire blazed her sink to her final resting Telephone 'Service' immediately. The re- in the maneuvering place. A Japanese mer- Cable TV 'Service' mainder of her patrol, room. chantman picked up eight along the Borneo coast After 13 hours of sweat- officers and 68 enlisted Civil 'Service' through shallow and ing it out on the bottom men and took them to Federal, State, City, treacherous waters, was Grenadier managed to Penang, Malay States, hampered by fathometer surface after dark to where they were ques- & public 'Service' failures. She conducted clear the boat of smoke tioned, beaten, and starved Customer 'Service' an aggressive attack on and inspect damage. before being sent to other two cargo ships 22 Janu- The damage to her pro- prison camps. They were This is NOT what I ary but did not sink pulsion system was ir- then separated and trans- thought 'Service' them. reparable. Attempting to ferred from camp to camp meant. The battle-tired subma- bring his ship close to along the Malay Peninsula rine departed Australia shore so that the crew and finally to Japan. But today, I over- on 20 March on her last could scuttle her and es- Throughout the war they heard two farmers war patrol and headed cape into the jungle, suffered brutal, inhuman talking, and one of for the Strait of Malacca, Commander Fitzgerald treatment, and their refusal them said he had gateway between the even tried to jury-rig a to reveal military informa- hired a bull to Pacific and Indian sail. But the long night's tion both frustrated and an- Oceans. Patrolling along work proved futile. As gered their captors. First 'Service' a few cows. the Malay and Thai dawn broke, 22 April, word that any had survived BAM!!! It all came coasts, Grenadier Grenadier’s weary crew Grenadier reached Austra- into focus. Now I un- claimed a small freighter sighted two Japanese lia on 27 November 1943. derstand what all off the island of Phuket ships heading for them. Despite the brutal and sa- on 6 April. She re- As the skipper "didn't distic treatment, all but four those agencies are do- mained in the area and think it advisable to of Grenadier’s crew sur- ing to us. late in the night of 20 make a stationary dive in vived their two years in You are now as April sighted two mer- 280 feet of water without Japanese hands. chantmen and closed in power," the crew began Grenadier received four enlightened as I was. for the attack. Running burning confidential battle stars for World War on the surface at dawn documents prior to aban- II service. Page 20 Piedmont Periscope

USSVI Constitution and Bylaws

Here a little more of the USSVI Constitution and By- Bylaws (continued from March issue) laws. As I stated in January we’ll do a little each month and the Constitution will be here on the left ARTICLE V -- DUTIES OF OFFICERS side and the Bylaws on the right side. The Constitution (Con’t) Article VII is rather long and rather than split it, I’ll Section 2. SENIOR VICE-COMMANDER continue it on Page 19. Now Section 5 on Associate The duties of the Senior Vice-Commander Members was new last September, so read it over. — shall include, but not be limited to: Moe(SS) a. Assist the National Commander in the dis- Constitution (continued from March issue) charge of his duties. ARTICLE VIII -- MEMBERSHIP DUES b. Assume the duties of the National Com- Section 1. Every member of the organization mander in the event of his absence, illness, or will pay membership dues as prescribed in the call to eternal patrol. organization’s Bylaws. c. Execute the powers and authority of the Section 2: Dues are due and payable on Janu- National Commander, when required, in the ary 1st each year and remain effective thru De- absence of the National Commander. cember 31st the same year d. Serve as a member of the Board of Direc- Section 3. Bases may charge Base Dues as tors. prescribed by their local Base By-Laws. e. Act as Chairman for the Ways and Means Section 4: New Member annual dues may be Committee. set on a declining pro-rata monthly schedule to f. Act as Chairman for the Audit Committee. be determined by the Board of Directors and g. Serve as a member of the Scholarship published to the bases. Committee. Section 5: Those members with 35 years of h. Be responsible for the content, publication, continuous membership in USSVI shall be and distribution of the National Publication. classed as Senior Members, be publicly recog- i. Prepare and present an annual report rela- nized and considered Life Members for na- tive to the operation of his office at the An- tional dues purposes if they are still annual nual Business Meeting. dues members. j. Work up, keep current and pass on, immedi- Next—Article IX– Structure ately to his relief a “Turn Over” folder, in- cluding all official correspondence, records, and official materials assigned to his care.

More next month, starting with the duties of the Junior Vice Commander. Remember you can always find he entire National USSVI Bylaws at USSVI.org. Issue 1303 Page 21

History of the Challenge Coin—Supplied by Steve Bell

There are many exam- challenge coins began. THE FIRST OFFICIAL men could wear it around ples of traditions that One thing is certain: CHALLENGE COIN… their necks, instead of in build camaraderie in the Coins and military ser- MAYBE - Although no a leather pouch. military, but few are as vice go back a lot farther one is certain how chal- THE CHALLENGE - well-respected as the than our modern age. lenge coins came to be, Stories say that the chal- practice of carrying a One of the earliest known one story dates back to lenge began in Germany challenge coin—a small examples of an enlisted World War I, when a after World War II. medallion or token that soldier being monetarily wealthy officer had bronze Americans stationed signifies a person is a rewarded for valor took medallions struck with the there took up the local member of an organiza- place in Ancient Rome. If flying squadron’s insignia tradition of conducting tion. Even though chal- a soldier performed well to give to his men. Shortly “pfennig checks.” The lenge coins have broken in battle that day, he after, one of the young pfennig was the lowest into the civilian popula- would receive his typical flying aces was shot down denomination of coin in tion, they're still a bit of day’s pay, and a separate over Germany and cap- Germany, and if you did- a mystery for those out- coin as a bonus. Some tured. The Germans took n’t have one when a side the armed forces. accounts say that the coin everything on his person check was called, you WHAT DO CHAL- was specially minted except the small leather were stuck buying the LENGE COINS LOOK with a mark of the legion pouch he wore around his beers. This evolved from LIKE? - Typically, chal- from which it came, neck that happened to con- a pfenning to a unit’s me- lenge coins are around prompting some men to tain his medallion. dallion, and members 1.5 to 2 inches in diame- hold on to their coins as a The pilot escaped and would "challenge" each ter, and about 1/10-inch memento, rather than made his way to France. other by slamming a me- thick, but the styles and spend them on women But the French believed he dallion down on the bar. sizes vary wildly—some and wine. was a spy, and sentenced If any member present even come in unusual Today, the use of coins in him to execution. In an didn’t have his medal- shapes like shields, pen- the military is much more effort to prove his identity, lion, he had to buy a tagons, arrowheads, and nuanced. While many the pilot presented the me- drink for the challenger dog tags. The coins are coins are still handed out dallion. A French soldier and for anyone else that generally made of pew- as tokens of appreciation happened to recognize the had their coin. If all the ter, copper, or nickel, for a job well done, espe- insignia and the execution other members had their with a variety of finishes cially for those serving as was delayed. The French medallions, the chal- available (some limited part of a military opera- confirmed his identity and lenger had to buy every- edition coins are plated tion, some administrators sent him back to his unit. one drinks. in gold). The designs exchange them almost One of the earliest chal- THE SECRET HAND- can be simple—an en- like business cards or lenge coins was minted by SHAKE - In June 2011, graving of the organiza- autographs they can add Colonel “Buffalo Bill” Secretary of Defense tion's insignia and to a collection. There are Quinn, 17th Infantry Regi- Robert Gates toured mili- motto—or have enamel also coins that a soldier ment, who had them made tary bases in Afghanistan highlights, multi- can use like an ID badge for his men during the Ko- before his impending re- dimensional designs, to prove they served with rean War. The coin fea- tirement. Along the way, and cut outs. a particular unit. Still tures a buffalo on one side he shook hands with doz- CHALLENGE COIN other coins are handed as a nod to its creator, and ens of men and women in ORIGINS - It's nearly out to civilians for pub- the Regiment’s insignia on the Armed Forces in impossible to defini- licity, or even sold as a the other side. A hole was what, to the naked eye, tively know why and fund-raising tool. drilled in the top so the appeared to be a simple where the tradition of (Con’t on Page 24) Page 22 Piedmont Periscope

Hell of a Day A crusty old Submarine serious. You really need Those are called Cojones There I was sitting at the Master Chief found to chill out! I mean, no de Toro, bull's testicles bar staring at my drink himself at a gala event sex since 1955! She from the bull fight this when a large, trouble- hosted by a local liberal took his hand and led morning. a delicacy!' making biker steps up arts college. him to a private room The cowboy said, 'What next to me, grabs my There was no shortage of where she proceeded to the heck, bring me an drink and gulps it down extremely young "relax" him several order.' in one swig. idealistic ladies in times. "Well, whatcha' gonna attendance, one of whom Afterwards, panting for The waiter replied, 'I am do about it?" he says, approached the Master breath, she leaned so sorry senor. There is menacingly, as I burst Chief for conversation. against his bare chest only one serving per day into tears. "Excuse me, Master and said, "Wow, you because there is only one "Come on, man," the Chief, but you seem to sure didn't forget much bull fight each morning. biker says, "I didn't think be a very serious man. Is since 1955." If you come early and you'd CRY. I can't stand something bothering The Master Chief said, place your order, we will to see a man crying." you?" after glancing at his be sure to save you this "This is the worst day of "Negative, ma'am. Just watch, "I hope not; it's delicacy.' my life," I say. serious by nature." only 2130 now." "I'm a complete failure. I The young lady looked ******************** The next morning, the was late to a meeting at his awards and cowboy returned, placed Spanish Oysters and my boss fired me. decorations and said, "It his order and that eve- When I went to the park- looks like you have seen Provided by Jack ning was served the one and only special delicacy ing lot, I found my car a lot of sea time." A big Texan cowboy of the day. had been stolen and I "Yes, ma'am, a lot of sea stopped at a local restau- don't have any insurance. time." rant following a day After a few bites, in- I left my wallet in the The young lady, tiring of roaming around in specting his platter, he cab I took home. I found trying to start up a Spain. called to the waiter and my wife with another conversation, said, "You said, 'These are deli- man... and then my dog know, you should While sipping his wine, cious, but they are much, bit me." lighten up. Relax and he noticed a sizzling, much smaller than the "So I came to this bar to enjoy yourself." scrumptious looking ones I saw you serve platter being served at work up the courage to The Master Chief just yesterday." put an end to it all, I buy stared at her in his the next table. The waiter shrugged his a drink, I drop a capsule serious manner. Not only did it look in and sit here watching Finally the young lady shoulders and replied, good, the smell was "Si, Senor. Sometimes the poison dissolve; and said, "You know, I hope wonderful. then you show up and you don't take this the the bull wins." He asked the waiter, drink the whole damn wrong way, but when is ******************** thing! the last time you had 'What is that you just Two hunters got a pilot "But, Hell, enough about sex?" served?' to fly them into the Ca- me, how are you doing?" "1955, ma'am." The waiter replied, 'Si nadian wilderness, ******************** "Well, there you are. No senor, you have excel- where they managed to wonder you're so Now that’s Funny! lent taste! bag two big Bull Moose. Issue 1303 Page 21

As they were loading the have beaten the red light School' bumper sticker, 10. Kids in the back seat plane to return, the pilot by accelerating through and the chrome-plated cause accidents. said the plane could take the intersection. Christian fish emblem on 11. Accidents in the back only the hunters, their the trunk, so naturally...I The tailgating woman seat cause kids. gear and one Moose. assumed you had stolen behind him was furious 12. It's hard to make a The hunters strongly ob- and honked her horn, the car.'' comeback when you have- jected saying, "Last year screaming in frustration, ******************** n't been anywhere. we shot two, and the pi- as she missed her chance Senior Thoughts lot let us take them to get through the inter- 13. The only time the both... and he had ex- section, dropping her – Provided by Jim Schenk world beats a path to your actly the same airplane cell phone and makeup. God grant me the senility door is when you're in the bathroom. as yours." As she was still in mid- to forget the people I Reluctantly the pilot, not rant, she heard a tap on never liked, the good for- 14. If God wanted me to wanting to be outdone her window and looked tune to run into the ones I touch my toes, he'd have by another bush pilot, up into the face of a very do, and the eyesight to tell put them on my knees. gave in and everything serious police officer. the difference. 15. When I'm finally hold- was loaded. However, The officer ordered her Now that I'm older here's ing all the cards, why does even under full power, to exit her car with her what I've discovered: everyone want to play the little plane couldn't hands up. He took her to chess? handle the load and went the police station where 1. I started out with noth- down, crashing in the she was searched, finger- ing, and I still have most 16. Its not hard to meet ex- wooded wilderness. printed, photographed, of it. penses . . . they're every- where. Somehow, surrounded and placed in a holding 2. My wild oats have by the moose, clothing cell. turned into prunes and all- 17. The only difference be- and sleeping bags, Stosh After a couple of hours, bran. tween a rut and a grave is and Stan survived the a policeman approached 3. I finally got my head the depth. crash. the cell and opened the together, and now my 18. These days, I spend a After climbing out of the door. She was escorted body is falling apart. lot of time thinking about back to the booking desk wreckage, Stosh asked 4. Funny, I don't remem- the hereafter..I go some- Stan, "Any idea where where the arresting offi- where to get something, cer was waiting with her ber being absent-minded. we are?" and then wonder what I'm personal effects. Z. Funny, I don't remem- hereafter. Stan replied, "I think ber being absent-minded. we're pretty close to He said, ''I'm very sorry 19. Funny, I don't remem- where we crashed last for this mistake. You 6. If all is not lost, where ber being absent-minded. see, I pulled up behind year !!!" is it? your car while you were 20. Three signs of getting 7. It is easier to get older ******************* blowing your horn, flip- old: than it is to get wiser. Provided by Al West- ping off the guy in front 1. You memory begins to berry: of you and cussing a 8. Some days, you're the fade. blue streak at him. I no- dog; some days you're the 2. I cannot remember the The light turned yellow, ticed the 'What Would hydrant. just in front of him. He other two. Jesus Do?' bumper 9. I wish the buck stopped did the right thing, stop- sticker, the 'Choose Life' ********************* ping at the crosswalk, here; I sure could use a license plate holder, the few. Laugh, Might as Well! even though he could 'Follow Me To Sunday- Page 24 Piedmont Periscope

(From Page 21) little more than common coins for especially hard the stairs on Air Force exchange of respect. It was, currency with the unit’s -fought battles to hand One. in fact, a secret handshake insignia stamped on one out to those who lived to BEYOND THE MILI- with a surprise inside for side, but the men in the tell the tale. TARY - Challenge coins the recipient—a special unit carried them with PRESIDENT (AND are now being used by Secretary of Defense chal- pride. VICE PRESIDENT) many different organiza- lenge coin. More importantly, CHALLENGE COINS - tions. In the federal gov- Not all challenge coins are though, it was a lot safer Starting with Bill Clin- ernment, everyone from passed by secret hand- than the alternative— ton, every president has Secret Service agents to shake, but it has become a bullet clubs, whose mem- had his own challenge White House staff to the tradition that many uphold. bers carried a single un- coin and, since Dick President's personal val- It could have its origins in used bullet at all times. Cheney, the vice presi- ets have their own coins. the Second Boer War, Many of these bullets dent has had one, too. Probably the coolest fought between the British were given as a reward There are usually a few coins are those for White and South African colonists for surviving a mission, different Presidential House Military Aides— at the turn of the 20th cen- with the idea that it was coins—one for the inau- the people who carry the tury. The British hired now a “last resort bullet,” guration, one that com- atomic football—whose many soldiers of fortune to be used on yourself memorates his admini- coins are, naturally, in the for the conflict, who, due to instead of surrendering if stration, and one avail- shape of a football. their mercenary status, defeat seemed imminent. able to the general pub- However, thanks in part were unable to earn medals Of course carrying a bul- lic, often in gift shops or to custom coin compa- of valor. It was not un- let was little more than a online. But there's one nies online, everyone’s usual, though, for the com- show of machismo, so special, official presi- getting in on the tradi- manding officer of those what started off as hand- dential coin that can tion. Today, it’s not un- mercenaries to receive the gun or M16 rounds, soon only be received by common for police and accommodation instead. escalated to .50 caliber shaking the hand of the fire departments to have Stories say that non- bullets, anti-aircraft most powerful man in coins, as do many civic commissioned officers rounds, and even artillery the world. As you can organizations, such as the would often sneak into the shells in an effort to one- probably guess, this is Lions Club and the Boy tent of an unjustly awarded up each other. the rarest and most Scouts. Even the Star officer and cut the medal Unfortunately, when sought-after of all chal- Wars cosplayers of the from the ribbon. Then, in a these bullet club mem- lenge coins. 501st Legion, Harley public ceremony, they bers presented “The The President can hand Davidson riders, and would call the deserving Challenge” to each other out a coin at his own Linux users have their mercenary forward and, in bars, it meant they discretion, but they are own coins. Challenge palming the medal, shake were slamming live am- usually reserved for spe- coins have become a long his hand, passing it to the munition down on the cial occasions, military -lasting, highly- soldier as a way of indi- table. Worried that a personnel, or foreign collectible way to show rectly thanking him for his deadly accident might dignitaries. It’s been your allegiance anytime, service. occur, command banned said that George W. anyplace. SPECIAL FORCES the ordnance, and re- Bush reserved his coins COINS - Challenge coins placed it with limited edi- for injured soldiers com- began to catch on during tion Special Forces coins ing back from the Mid- the Vietnam War. The first instead. Soon nearly dle East. President coins from this era were every unit had their own Obama hands them out created by either the coin, and some even fairly often, most nota- Army's 10th or 11th Spe- minted commemorative bly to soldiers that man cial Forces Group and were Issue 1303 Page 25

Don’t THE LOVE DRESS her husband to arrive. Finally, her husband Answer to the Flag Provided by Dick Kan- came home. Forget ning The 25-Star Flag: This He walked in and saw her Flag became the Official The Baseball A woman stopped by, United States Flag on unannounced, at her son's lying there so provoca- tively. July 4th, 1836. A star Game house. She knocked on was added for the admis- the door then immedi- "What are you doing?" he sion of Arkansas (June May 27th ately walked in. She was asked. 15th, 1836) and was to shocked to see her daugh- "This is my love dress," last for just one year. ter-in-law lying on the 7:15 she whispered sensually. The two Presidents to couch, totally naked. serve under this flag "Needs ironing," he said. Select seats Soft music was playing, were Andrew Jackson "What's for dinner? and the aroma of perfume (1829-1837) and Martin Just filled the room. He never heard the gun- "What are you doing?!" shot. $13/per person she asked. EVENTS April Meeting This is our 4th "I'm waiting for Mike to come home from work," April 27th year presenting the daughter-in- law an- Planning ahead for the swered. Spring and Summer? Dinner at 1730 the Colors on Maybe this will help: "But you're naked!" the

Memorial Day mother-in-law exclaimed. Meeting at April 28, 3 PM— "This is my love dress," Weekend. Massing of the Colors— 1900 the daughter-in-law ex- Rock Hill Call Moe(SS) plained. Dinner pre- May17 and 18— pared by ours 704-248-7610 "Love dress? But you're Burnsville Memorial naked!" May 27– Thomasville SubVettes at Memorial Day Parade To reserve you "Mike loves me and the cost of wants me to wear this May 27— Carolina Pied- Seats prior to dress," she explained." It mont Color Guard pre- $6.00/person sents Colors at Charlotte May 15th excites him to no end. Every time he sees me in Knights Game/Baseball Please remem- Or shoot him this dress, he instantly Game 7:15 becomes romantic and June 30th—Troutman ber to pay for an email at ravages me for hours on Independence Day Pa- your meal and end. He can't get enough rade Donut- of me" The mother-in- July 4th—Faith Inde- help and sup- law left. pendence Day Parade [email protected] Look for e-mails for the port the Base When she got home, she muster times and loca- and it’s Come on out undressed, showered, put tions. We’ll publish and support on her best perfume, them as they become activities dimmed the lights, put on available here in your your Base. a romantic CD, and lay PIEDMONT on the couch, waiting for PERISCOPE. Page 26 Piedmont Periscope

BURNSVILLE MEMORIAL SERVICE -2013

We invite you all to come to the Burnsville 2013 event on 17 and 18 May. The 17th is mostly just a day of getting together and enjoying the evening together. There will be plenty of snacks and drinks available at no additional cost to you and some Karaoke to top off the evening. The 18th will be an NC Subvets meeting, followed by lunch wherever you care to go. Many of us go to the Western Sizzlin a couple miles down the road from the hotels. It is also on the way to the memorial. We will have our Memorial Service at 1400. Most of you know where that is, but if this is a first time for you, you can ride with someone or just follow, you choice. The evening is a dinner put on by the main hotel (Skyline Village Inn) followed by Karaoke for your evening entertainment. Our reports back from various attendees said the entire weekend was well worth it. So make your plans early to come join us that weekend. The registration form is within this newsletter. The room prices vary somewhat. Single rooms with balcony are $85 a night, with- out balcony are $69. Double rooms are $99 with balcony and $85 without bal- cony. Of course this cost is without tax. Verify your cost when you make your room reservation. This cost will apply to both hotels. Make your reservations at 704-517-6374 (Skyline Village Inn). If this hotel cannot accommodate you, he will take care of your reservations at the overflow hotel and let you know. Please make your reservations prior to 4 May 2013. We have a cutoff date of 3 May so we can all plan accordingly. Fill out the registration sheet and send it to: Steve Bell, 138 Burton Hills Circle, Gastonia, NC 28054. Make your check payable to Carolina Piedmont Base – USSVI. Come on out and enjoy the weekend with us. I doubt you will regret it. If you are just coming up for the service, we welcome you too. We look forward to seeing you in the mountains in May.— Steve Bell, Carolina Piedmont Base Commander Issue 1303 Page 27

2013 NC SUBVETS Burnsville Memorial Service 17-18 May 2013 Pre-Registration Form – Cutoff Date 3 May 2013 Name:______Nickname:______Street Address:______City/State/Zip:______Base______Spouse/Guest Name:______Nickame:______Emergency Contact/ Telephone:______NO. TOTAL Registration/Catered Meal, Saturday May 18 Per Person $25 ______

TEAR OFF THIS SECTION AS A COPY FOR YOUR RECORDS Please make checks payable to: CAROLINA PIEDMONT BASE – USSVI Mail check to: Steve Bell, 138 Burton Hills Circle, Gastonia, NC 28054 NO. TOTAL

Registration/Catered Meal, Saturday May 18 Per Person $25 ______

Host Hotel: Skyline Village Inn, 12255 NC Hwy 226A (milepost marker 331 on the Blue Ridge Parkway), between Little Switzerland and Spruce Pine, NC. Phone: 1-828-765-9394 or 704-517-6374 (preferable) Directions to Hotel: I-40, Exit 86 (Route 226). Take this bending, curving road all the way to Little Switzer- land. When you see the Blue Ridge Parkway overpass, take a left turn, it is the first building on the right. Reservations: Reservations at the hotel are the responsibility of the individual (828-765-6276 or 704-517- 6374). A special rate of approximately $85.00 (plus tax) for most rooms (if you are doubling up with some- one, there is an extra $10 charge) is available for U.S. Subvets per night. Double rooms are $99 and singles are $69 (plus tax of course). This hotel has only 16 rooms but has made a deal with a hotel (Big Lynn Gap Motel) approximately 2 miles away for overflow at the same rate. Skyline Hotel will arrange for either hotel as appropriate. DEADLINE FOR SPECIAL RATE IS 3 MAY 2013. Check out the website at www.skylinevillageinn.com. Page 28 Piedmont Periscope

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 2013 BURNSVILLE MEMORIAL SERVICE

FRIDAY MAY 17

1500-1800 Registration at Skyline Village Inn (just let Bell know you are there) 1600-?? Hospitality Room Open Evening Meal will be on your own

SATURDAY MAY 18

1000 NC SUBVETS Meeting (Swearing in of Carolina Piedmont Base Officers) 1130 (approx) Lunch at Western Sizzlin (on your own)(for those that want to eat there) 1400 Memorial Service on Moonshine Mountain 1800 Catered meal @ Skyline Village Inn (downstairs) 1900 (approx) Karaoke for the evening (upstairs)

-We will caravan (or try to) to Moonshine Mountain from Western Sizzlin after lunch. -Hospitality Room will be open during the day Saturday. After the service, there may be a showing of the latest Bilge Rat Productions Show. -Evening meal is a buffet style meal prepared at the hotel.

COME OUT AND ENJOY SOME GOOD COMRADERSHIP, A MEMORIAL SER- VICE FOR THOSE WE LOST ON WWII SUBMARINES, AND A GOOD HOME COOKED MEAL Carolina Piedmont Base Calendar of Upcoming Events Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Region Submarine Wilimington Conv. Birthday! Azalea Festi- Charleston —-> —–> —-> val Parade —-> 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Levine PP News- Children’s letter Hospital Deadline

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Base Meeting VFW POST 1730 Dinner 1900 Meeting 28 29 30 May 1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 Newslet- 11 ter Deadline

12 Mother’s 13 14 15 16 17 18 Day Burnsville Burnsville Memorial

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

One way to support VFW Post 9138 is to attend their Sunday Morning Break- fast held on the second Sunday of each month from 8am to 11am— Come on out! -