Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 25 Welcome Aboard Shipmates! NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT Michael B. Lewis 1968 John C Calhoun Robert E. Boyd 1955 Redfi n Brent Nash 1987 John C Calhoun Ronnie Lowe 1968 Requin Gregory Scott Poteet 1980 John C Calhoun James McGarrah 2001 Rhode Island George E. Shaw 1980 John C Calhoun George E. Archer 1969 Robert E Lee Jerry Staeheli 1966 John C Calhoun D. Joe White 1967 Robert E Lee William Lease 1968 John Marshall Melville Outram 1961 Rock Steve Elledge 1967 Kamehameha William W. Brewer 1961 Ronquil Willis A.Gillis 1975 Kamehameha Thomas Scott 1962 Ronquil Donald Bussell 2000 Kentucky Bennie Cashman 1963 Runner Robert B Belmont 1945 Kraken Richard D. Hernandez 1945 Runner Albert Schaub 1944 L-4 William G. Longworth 1944 S-16 Larry D.Lentz 1986 La Jolla John D. Hill, Jr. 1943 S-38 Wilson T. Clark 1969 Lafayette Thomas Wilhelm 1968 Sabalo Thomas Eddleman 1984 Lafayette Gerald Montageau 1963 Sailfi sh Laurence Torreyson 1973 Lapon Dan G. Shields 1959 Sailfi sh Chad Sechrist 2002 Louisiana Dennis Skramstad 1968 Salmon Mark A. Voitlein 2000 Louisiana Kirby J. Schuler 1986 Sam Houston Patrick Bryson 1992 Maryland David Dixor 1981 San Francisco Charles E.Eberhardt 1956 Medregal Charles Raynorrepko 2001 San Juan Paul, James Bushong 1984 Memphis Christopher E Kuhls 1963 Sarda William C. Holmes 1967 Menhaden Dennis Roy Fisher 1960 Sargo Ronald J St Peter Jr. 1988 Minneapolis-St Paul Arthur S Thompson 1961 Sargo Charles Caruthers 2002 Montpelier Robert Whitehouse 1951 Scabbardfi sh Brian R. Golembieski 1997 Montpelier Timothy Dwyer 1980 Scamp Dennis Fraher 1969 Narwhal John J. Hoffman 1969 Scamp James David Hall 1989 Narwhal Ashberry West 1967 Scamp Douglas D Gilman 1977 Nathan Hale Paul Colardeau 2005 Scranton Douglas E. Heckel 1982 Nathan Hale Christopher Marchand 1986 Sea Devil Joseph Ruckman 1976 Nathan Hale Lewis Thomas Crosse 1948 Sea Fox David H. Vine 1968 Nathanael Greene Edward Pleming 1946 Sea Fox Donald S. Cale 1985 Nevada Lawrence R. Butler 1965 Sea Leopard Dan Curran 1979 Pargo Charles R. Dansreau 1968 Sea Owl Russell Mayforth 1970 Pargo Gerald L. Dilorenzo 1957 Sea Owl Michael Micheli 2005 Pasadena Bruce W. Melton 1969 Sea Owl Thomas J. Rumsey 1964 Patrick Henry Kenneth W. Nichols 1966 Sea Owl Todd Trahan 1995 Pennsylvania Rick Smock 1968 Sea Poacher B Pietruszkiewicz 1987 Philadelphia Donald R. Wilkinson 1956 Sea Poacher Gary D. Vuylsteke 1977 Philadelphia Edward D. Rabbitt 1962 Sea Robin James Wade 1966 Pickerel Douglas D. Blaha 1964 Seadragon Mark Roediger 1990 Pittsburgh Gregory S. Goings 1991 Seahorse Aaron Roth 2008 Pittsburgh Perry D. Deason 1969 Sealion Tim Norling 1988 Plunger Gregory W Smith 1965 Sealion David Pipes 1974 Pogy Scott R. Van Buskirk 1982 Seawolf Ronald E. Oas 1943 Pollack Wathier A. Bergsten 1953 Segundo Thomas Shipman 1960 Pomfret Paul A. Riggs 1958 Segundo James Ambrosia 1991 Providence John L. Zentz 1972 Shark Eric Murphy 1993 Providence Paul Jensen 1992 Simon Bolivar Robert F. Palmer 1970 Puffer Frances W. Peterson 1965 Simon Bolivar Murrell Wilson 1956 Queenfi sh Wayne Skinner 1965 Simon Bolivar John J. Kelly 1969 Quillback Bill Clark 1977 Skate Thomas R Taylor 1969 Quillback Sammie L. Johnson 1980 Skate Arthur W. Parry, Jr. 1969 Raton Brian Tomasch 1975 Skate Kevin Harlan 1973 Ray William Nooney 1978\ Skipjack Donnie R. Bolling 1956\ Redfi n Daniel E. Burkett 1972 Snook COB.. Lay to the Goat Locker. We’re trying to trim the Boat for a launch! Page 26 American Submariner NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT NAME Q-YEAR Q-BOAT

Francis X. Beaudin III 1974 Spadefi sh Robert A. Brown 1972 Will Rogers Charles Stauff 1956 Spikefi sh Michael E. Lawrence 1978\ Will Rogers Merrill L. Talbott 1960 Spikefi sh Bruce B Williams 1972 Will Rogers Christopher Ezell 2007 Springfi eld Wayne Carney 1970 Woodrow Wilson James Richards 2005 Springfi eld David P. Lewis 1982 Woodrow Wilson Hobert Scharff 1957 Stickleback George Kokolis 2002 Wyoming Fernando Iglesias 1980 Stonewall Jackson Charles Babbitt Associate Odell L. Olsen 1966 Stonewall Jackson Stephen A. Edis Associate William L Henry 1973 Sturgeon Dana T. Eng Associate Richard Schram 1968 Sturgeon Shelley Henriksen Associate Rodger Pearce 1988 Sunfi sh Joseph B. Houston Associate Gerald Yates 1982 Sunfi sh Allen Iott Associate Robert N. Williams 1978 Swordfi sh Jim Looby Associate Doyle E. Huff 1944 Tautog John H. Martin Associate William Anderson, C 1976 Tecumseh James Perry Associate Jim Hamilton 1974 Tecumseh Rick Reeves Associate Charles Petitt 1974 Tecumseh Kerry Ryan D Associate Larry Vallee 1994\ Tennessee Peter Joseph Tierney Associate John A. Davis 1965 Theodore Roosevelt Andrew Torkelson Associate Lon Watson 1963 Theodore Roosevelt James R. Willard, Sr. Associate Toby J. Cozad 1979 Thomas A Edison Gary Williams Associate C. Thomas Eldridge 1968 Thomas A Edison Edgar M.Zerr Associate John A. Peterson 1974 Thomas A Edison Elaine Branch Associate William C. Weeks, II 1973 Thomas A Edison Donald W. Cronkhite 1964 Thomas Jefferson 2009 Danny L. Leonhardt 1964 Thomas Jefferson OPPORTUNITY DRAWING TomDesaulniers 1963 Thornback Arlin Devlin Johnson 1944 Tilefi sh Marvin Beaver 1978 Tinosa In the past two years more than $30,000 has been put into Tim Cich 1978 Tinosa USSVI Base treasuries. $27,000 has been paid out to our Mark Scahill 1990 Tinosa members and $4,000 has been donated to the USSVI Chari- Jacob Poston 1998 Topeka table Foundation. Sounds like it might be doing some good John Barnes 1959 Toro things. It will continue.. Duane R. Hartson 1958 Toro Keith J. Peterson 1961 Toro However, since we do not have a consensual legal position Stan Breedlove 1971 Trepang for the National campaign it will be all be done at the National Tom Meyer 1992 Trepang Convention in San Diego. Herbert E English 1942 Trigger Thomas H. Callahan 1955 Trout Be sure to bring your Life Savings and invest in this HIGH Timothy P. Werley 1962 Trout RETURN (better than your local Casino or State Lottery) David Hendrix 1966 Trumpetfi sh event. Plan to pick up a couple tickets for your best buddy Howard Onorato 1969 Tullibee who couldn’t make the trip and when he wins he’ll be at the Rudy Plummer 1972 Tullibee next two conventions picking up your tickets. Kelly Walker 1969 Tullibee Lance Forgey 1980 Tunny Come to San Diego, have a good time, pick up the winning David M. Webb 1992 Tunny tickets. All rules and regs will be available when you get to A.V. Faustino 1963 Tusk the Golden State. See you there. George C. Lewis 1955 Tusk Rosendo Briones 1981 Ulysses S Grant Actually, it could be in your best interests, or at least the best John Byrne 1981 Ulysses S Grant interests of your Base to check with your state and local Joseph H. Fay 1971 Ulysses S Grant authorities to see what laws may apply in your area. The Harry Marsh 1971 Ulysses S Grant more participation the higher the return. We can do this on Jacob W. Banner 2006 Virginia a State by State basis. If you are interested in s Slam -Dunk Brent A. Meyer 2008 Virginia fundraiser, here it is. Steven M. Shea 2009 Virginia Call me with any questions. 951-541-0900 or E-mail at Eugene R. Weiler 1970 Von Steuben [email protected] David Houston 1998 West Virginia Robert C. Rautzhan 1969 Whale Raise your hand if you are old enough to remember the Escape Tank at Hunter’s Point. Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 27

Bob DeVore President of WW11 Central Region, District Two Convention, Submarine Veterans and Walter Gus Krause Recording Secretary WW11 Birthday Ball along with Don Morell Director North Central Region WW11 and most of the North Central State WW11 State Directors were in attendance. The Central Region-District Two USSVI in conjunction with the North Central The 2009 District Convention and Region WWII Submarine Veterans Submarine Ball was enjoyed by all in Celebrated the Submarine Services attendance. 109th birthday with a Convention and

Birthday Ball. The event took place in Manitowoc, Wisconsin over the weekend of April 23/24/25, 2009 with the Holiday Inn being the host hotel. The weekend was hosted by the Crash Dive Base.

The highlights of the weekend included a morning tour of the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, a tolling ceremony at the museum, a retirement ceremony for RAdm Biesel was a warm, engaging several CPO’s and a tour of the USS guest and speaker. Cobia SS-245 docked alongside the museum. In the afternoon a business meeting was chaired by District Several District Two bases contributed Commander Tom Barnes. The Birthday to the success of the weekend, these Ball was held in the evening at the host included the Hoosier, Chicago, Cincinnati hotel. and Great Lakes bases. One of the highlights of the banquet Our congratulations to the Crash Dive was the ceremonial fi rst cut of the Base and Base Commander Clayton cake. This task was performed by Hill, Tom Barnes CD2 Commander Admiral Biesel and two WWII Vets, and Vic VanHorn VDC. They provided John Manasse (L) and Gus Kraus all in attendance with a very enjoyable (R). Both men were qualified in weekend. early 1941, over 68 years “Qualifi ed in Submarines”. These men were the senior qualifi ed Submariners in attendance.

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

Manitowoc was one of the locations where submarines were built in WWII. 28 submarines were launched sideways from the shipyard that was located several blocks from the present location of the Cobia. Even the Great lakes Float seemed to have a good time!

Skimmers are OK, everybody should own one! Page 28 American Submariner USSVI BASES IN ACTION

Seawolf Base Growth and Memorial

SEAWOLF BASE, Panama City Beach, FL, was chartered in 1993 and has continued to grow following the USSVI Creed. Our membership has continued to grow which enables us to get involved in more activities. Our goal has been to contribute to the local community and one way that we have done this is to sponsor the area unit of SEA CADETS, a youth organization, which is lead by Base Member John Duncan. SEA POACHER This year we were successful in raising funds enabling our Base to donate $1,000.00 to children of single parents and & SCOUTS impoverished homes to participate in this very worthwhile program. Jack Merrill, Base Commander of Sea Poacher Base, Bartow, Florida presents the USSVI Recognition Certifi cate to Steven Another project which has provided us with media attention Andrew Lewis at his Eagle Scout Court of Honor on 2 May in the local paper and TV was the building of a parade fl oat 2009 in Lakeland, Florida. Well Done, Steven! which we have taken to Veterans Day and 4th of July parades. The media coverage has enhanced our recruiting efforts and increased our membership.

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

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

The ceremony commenced with the Parading of the Colors by Central Texas fl oat is just rolling along.. the SEA CADETS, The National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance,

Remember when you caught your Dolphins between your teeth? Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 29

ELECTRONIC AMERICAN SUBMARINER

Would you like to get the AS delivered earlier? Would you like the US Post Offi ce to Butt out? Would you like to save USSVI a few bucks? You can do it! Just send an E-Mail to: ASOPTOUT@ Yahoo.com And telling us that you want to opt out of Hard Copy; that you no longer need a paper magazine. If you are so inclined you can download your magazine from the USSVI webpage at USSVI.org. Every AS since 2005-3 is on the web.. Blueback Base What’s your preference? Best, Members Honored Editor..

At the recent OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) annual volunteer appreciation ceremony, Blueback Base members were recognized for their years of work as volunteers Webb - Bronze service pin for 5 years. In addition Fred and on the USS Blueback (SS-581). Awards were given to: Fred Bob received the President’s Lifetime Service Award. This Carneau, Chris Stafford, and Bob Walters - Gold service pin award is given to volunteers who have dedicated 4,000 or for 15 years; Keith Miller and Gary Thrall - Silver service pin more hours over the course of their lives to serving others. for 10 years; Chuck Macaluso, Otto Tzevelekos, and Gary Pictured are Fred and Bob with the award certifi cate.

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

E-Mail: [email protected]

It takes two people to baptize a cat, maybe more Page 30 American Submariner

American Submariner Boat Sponsorship Program

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

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

Bases and Individuals are encouraged to become sponsors. Bases can collect the money and send a single check along with the names of the contributors and the exact places they wish to sponsor. The Base gets credited with all sponsorships by the Base and the Individuals are recognized for their participation. There are two separate annual prestigious “BOTTOM GUN” awards for the Boat Sponsorship Program. One is for the Base with the most Boat Sponsorships. The second is for the Base with the highest percentage of Boat Sponsorships measured against the number of members of the Base.

Individual Sponsors receive a Certifi cate of Appreciation, listing the sponsored locations and a “one time” 5” BSP patch. Bases receive a Certifi cate of Appreciation lisitng the sponsored locations. Many Sponsors receive Thank You letters from the sponsored units. Today’s Active Duty Submariners will be the keepers of our History and Legacy; they are our Relief Crew!

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

Thanks to the 86 Bases and 138 Shipmates that have stepped up to support the BSP and representing 435 Boat Sponsorships so far this year. It is at the highest level ever for the BSP. American Submariner Magazine P. O. Box 892616 Temecula CA 92589-2616 Any questions or comments, please contact Bill Lee, Program Manager, at [email protected] or call: 520-668-7419. Thanks Bill Lee, BSP Manager

The names of Shipmates and Bases are those who have contributed as of 18 July 2009 of this year. We are missing 128 of last year’s Donors and hope to bring some of them back on board before year’s end. The magzines do get read and they are appreciated by everyone of our readers. We are working hard to cut out the “Boiler Plate” and increase the articles, as you can see in this issue, we have about six pages more articles. Keep sending them in and we will keep putting them out. Thanks for your service and thanks for supporting the Boat Sponsorship Pro- gram. Rest assured that you are contrib- uting to the Creed, you are contributing to the mission of USSVI. Best, Michael

T Michael Bircumshaw Editor.

Never test the depth of the water with both feet. Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 31 2 Yakima 8 Friedrich, Paula A SPECIAL BASE 2 Wisconsin 8 Lesley, Dallas Altschuler, Leslie P SPONSORS 2 Volunteer 7 Keck, Sean P. Anderson, Robert J 2 USS Haddo Badar, Leo 2 Reading GOLD Bingham, Richard 2 Pocono DOUBLE DIAMOND 6 Bircumshaw, T. M Brooks, III, Ben 2 Nautilus Burgess, Thomas P. 39 Scamp 5 Koogler, James L. 2 Long Island Carlin, John A 30 LIB 5 Martin, Barry L. 2 LA Pasadena Civiletti, Sr., Joseph 25 New Jersey North 5 Miller, Robert J 2 Grayback Base Cloupe, Robert M 21 Bowfi n 4 Bannach, LeRoy R. 2 Golden Triangle 4 Bowers, Jerry W. Cole, Allen D. 2 First Coast 4 Dye, Karl R Conlon, Thomas DIAMOND 2 Charleston 4 Emery, Robert C. Coulson, Thomas 19 Seattle 2 MAL 4 Hines, Ronald W. Currier, Caryl N 17 USS Chicago 4 Householder, Pat Davis, Jay K. 15 P. C. Stryker Jr. SPECIAL 4 Kase, Cynthia Day, Stephen E 13 Central Florida White Sands 4 Markiewicz, John E. Debonis, David USS Virginia Base 4 Palmaffy, Michael J Denzien Sr, James PLATINUM USS Toledo 4 Parker, Arthur Duffy, Ronald J 11 Perch USS Springfi eld 4 Parker, Judson W. Dugan, John J 11 New Jersey South USS Scranton Base 4 Riley, Aster N Eggimann, Ron 10 Groton USS Maine 4 White, Leland D Felt, Dawn 9 No Virginia Tullibee 4 Wilson, Jimmy Gadreault, Henry E. 8 USS Parche SV WW-II Gudgeon Galloway, Robert L 8 Mare Island Sub Vettes SILVER Godwin, Ronald H. 8 Cod South Sound 3 Andersen, John A. Hacking, Michael R. 7 Tarheel Snug Harbor 3 Carlin, John A Hadden, Jr, William 7 San Diego SLO Sub Vets Base 3 Feury, Edward A Harvey, Warner M. 7 Dallas Silversides 3 Lester II, Robert R. Hellwig, David G. 7 Bremerton Seawolf 3 Peters, John D. Hill Jr, Jack J Sea Poacher 3 Van Horn, Victor P. Hoffman, William H GOLD Reading 2 Andrews, Hugh Hooker, Allen F. 6 TJC Philadelphia Base 2 Banks, O. Gordon Hutchens, Hylie W 6 Redfi sh Pelican Harbor 2 Breitner, Michael J. Irwin, James 6 Ponce De Leon PC Stryker Jr 4 Brink, Robert G. Jurcsak, Paul T. 6 Minn-St Paul Ozark-Runner 2 Brown Sr., Jack Kayser, David 6 Cyber Base New Jersey North 2 Buchholz, David H. Tupman, Kenneth L 6 Columbus New Jersey North 2 Budin, Ronald A. Kerrigan, Patrick T. 5 USS Corvina Base Drum 2 Burnett, John T. Kimmel, Dennis 5 Escolar Bullhead 2 Cabot, Alan S. Kimmel, Warren R. 5 Buffalo Base Boston 2 Chavis, James J Kleinmark, Leonard 4 Wahoo Bay State West 2 Cross, C E & Jeff Kreul, Rita 4 Tucson Barb 2 Farran, David L. Krompholz, Karl 4 Topeka-Jeff City Albemarle Sound 2 Fernstrom Jr, Bill Lange, Gerald M. 4 Tang 2 Finan, Edward W Lynch, John J 4 Rocky Mountain 2 Follo, David B Marshall, Raymond 4 Razorback SHIPMATE 2 Gilbert, Dennis P McCullough, Ed 4 Hawkbill 2 Hansen, Carl J. McGettigan, James 4 Barbel SPONSORS 2 Harnish, David R Meyer, Merle A 2 Hosking, Norman Miller Jr, Neil C. SILVER 2 Kellar, Gene E Moon, Calvin 3 West Lake Superior DOUBLE DIAMOND 2 Lewis, Murray P Mosley, Lanny 3 Tri-State 20 Schmidt, Herbert A. 2 McCune, J. Denver Nigro, MD, Samuel 3 Thresher 2 Milano, Michael J. O’Keeffe, Dennis J. 3 Sturgeon DIAMOND 2 Moore, Tim O’Leary, Cornelius J 3 PC Stryker Jr 12 Oliver, Russell Tom 2 Naso, Angelo J. Parker, Gary L. 3 New Jersey North 2 Paterno Jr, Victor E. Parker, Velton 3 Cuttlefi sh PLATINUM 2 Trubee, John A. Piwowarczyk, Ron Polizzotti, Joseph 3 Albany Saratoga 8 Atkins, Edwin F. 2 Vaughan, Sr, Rev R The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a leaky tire. Page 32 American Submariner

BSP SPECIAL CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Pollick, Raymond J Reed, Woodrow W. Sanchez, Michael Sandy Powell Sasgen, Thomas C. Schlegel, Don Seader, Lamarr Albert Smith Jr, John F Standerfer, Wayne Starbird Jr, John S. Straub, Robert Edward BILLY CARTER SEMONES, TM1 (SS) Tacey, Ralph July 3, 1936 – November 2, 1964 Theotonio, John A. Tierney, Raymond E. USS Henry Clay Memorial Tribute to Tupman, Kenneth L. Billy Carter Semones TM1 (SS) Veca, Angelo C. Wallach, Stanley Wilkins, James E. Seventy-seven patrols, plus countless shakedowns and refi ts, took Willis, Michael K. place before the USS Henry Clay SSB (N) 625 was decommissioned Wooden, Carl and later scrapped.

In the thirty plus years of her existence only one sailor lost his life in JOIN USSVI the performance of his duties aboard that ship. Billy Carter Semones TM1 (SS) lost his life November 2, 1964 while the Gold crew was TODAY! conducting a pre-patrol shakedown cruise.

The Benefi ts far outweigh the cost.. A line locker hatch cover, not dogged properly, was banging and masking the capability of the forward sonar array. The boat was NATIONAL DUES: surfaced in bad swells and waves. It was winter and very cold. Billy was the leading deck petty offi cer. He went over the top of the sail ANNUAL and started down the sail ladder. He never made it to the deck where 1 Year $20.00 3 Years $55.00 he could have secured the monkey tail on his safety belt to the deck 5 Years $90.00 track. A wave swept him overboard. The man overboard party could not save Billy and he eventually slipped from his life vest never to LIFE MEMBERSHIP be seen again. Age 76 plus - $100 There were many heroes aboard Henry Clay that day including our 66 - 75 - $200 offi cers who conned the ship to drift with prevailing current to the men 56 - 65 - $300 in the water when it was unsafe to use the ships propulsion power; 46 - 55 - $400 our swimmers and tenders who braved the awful sea and cold; the Under 46 - $500 lookouts and the tracking party who maintained track of the men in Check out USSVI on our Web Site at the water and the track of the Russian trawler hell bent to take sound www.ussvi.org signatures on us; our medical team who treated hypothermia; those and take a look at Wikipedia: who provided logistic support to the men topside and all of us that http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USSVI hoped and prayed. We also must salute the brave men in the Spanish Call: 877-542-DIVE (3483) Navy Corvettes who thwarted the Russian trawler from approaching or Send an E-Mail to: us too closely. [email protected] and ask for more inormation and a Mem- bership application. All of us aboard Henry Clay were overwhelmed with grief and anguish You rate Dolphins, You want to do this! over losing a great shipmate and friend. None of us felt much like

All of my heroes are Submariners.. Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 33

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

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

This Memorial Day 2009, shipmate Dr. Robert F. Front Pocket 4” Dolphin Ring Smith, formerly EM2 (SS), telephoned me Richard A.(Andy) Wheeler, former FTB2 (SS) and asked if I would lead an effort to honor our shipmate. Other Henry Clay shipmates enthusiastically approved. We decided to commission a plaque to be mounted on the “Commemorative Wall” of the National Navy Memorial in Washington, DC to honor Billy’s Ladies Ring Semones service. Back of Shirt 12”

We located Billy’s sister Betty Sue (Semones) New Style Bad Ass Whittaker in Billy’s home town of Versailles, Embroidered Hats Kentucky. She has been married for 49 years 6 Color Tees & Sweats (up to 4XL) to Ronald (Whit) Whittaker who was a shipmate of Billy’s when they served together on the USS Amberjack SS-522. Billy introduced Whit to his sister as the family visited him at the Sub Base in Key West, Florida in 1958. They are thrilled that we are Blue Diamond doing this as it will provide a measure of closure to Dolphin Ring Dolphin Bracelet them and to us. Billy enlisted on May 4, 1955. His entire Navy career was spent in submarines He also Exclusive Designs served on the USS Trumpet Fish SS-425 and the Diamonds & USS Shark SS (N) 599. Semi-Precious Stones 10K - 14 K Gold 18K Platinum Contributions are needed to design and commission Find the SubFarer; this plaque. Our goal is to raise $3200.00. Thus Sweetheart Check it out ! far we have raised $1975.00. Anyone wishing to Pendant contribute to this effort may send a check to: For more information, please call 877-703-9370 Visit our website: www.boldmilitaryjewelry.com Richard A. (Andy) Wheeler 39 Springdale Way Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 717-620-8144 [email protected]

Robert F. Smith 8024 Tennessee Avenue Raytown, MO 64138 816-353-1425 [email protected]

Any one can dive a vessel - It’s surfacing that takes skill and talent ! Page 34 American Submariner Senior Moments & Charleston Base Other Important Stuff Scholarship Recipients for 2009

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

This year’s recipients are pictured below: Rebecca Stout, Heather Woodward, Hailey Watson, Mary Caudle, Laura Lanier and Morgan Crouse. Also pictured are Jim Yates (scholarship chair) and Ricky Collins. The USS Snook Base of Northwest Arkansas members line up for Bella Vista 4th of July parade. Left to right are: Chuck Copeland, Herb Wise, Wayne Hartsfi eld, Lee Lacey, and Pete Rathmell.

The Right Answer

About 1955, while serving in USS Cusk (SS348), our subma- rine division made a transit from its home port, Port Hueneme, California, to Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii. Most of this Eagle Scout Award L.I. BASE transit was made on the surface in State 5 seas.

Long Island Base commander Mike Zemser awarded Sean I was an ETRSN(SS) and stood lookout watches. One of Robert the Eagle Scout Award on June 26, 2009. my watch-mates was seasick the entire trip. In fact, he was Sean Robert is the son of John Robert, USS Dace, 607 so sick the offi cer of the deck allowed him to stand the port served 1982-86 and Grandfather Louis Robert, USS Tench, lookout watch for over an hour at a time, so he didn’t have to 417 served 1951-53 go below decks so often.

During one of my turns as starboard lookout, I heard the of- fi cer of the deck engage the sick lookout in conversation in an attempt to cheer him up and get his mind off his illness. After a couple of exchanges of questions and answers, the offi cer of the deck said, “Where are you from?” To which the sick lookout said, “LAND!” Another thing I liked about the Boats.. No Mail Buoy Watches Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 35 Page 36 American Submariner

. The Fortunes of War th I shipped on December 15 of 1941 USS KETE SS-369 and proceeded by train to Boot Camp San Diego. Through a mix-up in my and for the next year I worked on the orders I was 3 days AWOL on arriving. Division Subs or went to the Shipyards Learned to salute anything that moved to help as assigned. I dove every tank, and if it stood still, paint it Green. Six Scraped every rusty hull and painted weeks of very basics, learned how to tie them with pitch. Meanwhile I worked on a square knot. We moved to a ship and my Qualifi cation Log as I stood watch on headed for Pearl Harbor. Arriving to a Subs at the docks. very messy Harbor the ship tied up at Submarine base. Just about a year to the day I was assigned to duty on the USS Haddock About 600 men spent the day by the SS 231. Left her in Midway for a 3- pool in Hart Circle, while the Navy called month tour before being assigned to the us off in numbers to go to duty on ships USS Pogy SS 266. Where I qualifi ed in and stations that had lost men or needed June of 1943. Then made four Patrols more Cooks, Yeoman and Torpedo man. and was assigned to new construction At close of day the chief pointed at the Submarines at Manitowoc. Submarine barracks for the 16 or so of us left. “Find yourself a Bunk up there on I then put the USS Kete SS 369 in the Second deck as you are now Ships Commission as MoMM2c and stood Company Submarine base. my watches as Throttleman in after engine room. I was one of thirty-two After 3 months of picking up Cigarette experienced men in a crew of 87 as we Bill McGraw & Dallas Dolan hit butts and candy wrappers or hauling put to sea on 1st Patrol. We met with the beach in PH supplies I volunteered for Submarine elements of the 5th Fleet and one of their boys were good! Never had a beating Duty. I was assigned to Sub Div. 42 Destroyers on our way to the East China like that from the Japanese. seas. That is a story that needs to be told as an unknown about the USS Kete A few days later our Bow planes froze History. Activities are passed on quickly on hard dive position. I was involved in by word of mouth. Experience helps to checking the new Waterbury system and fi ll in the elements of the story. advised using a come a long to pull them to zero and park them. To avoid using First word passed was Smoke on Horizon! the main Hyd. System and possible Nothing on our radar? Presumed that a contamination. Destroyer would have a much greater range. They had us plotted and were Eng. Offi cer overrode suggestion and underway. Command would know and used Main Hydraulics. Days later react? Skipper submerged and had a received word to go to Saipan for look to identify. Went to 300 ft and silent repairs. #1 IMO pump was failing as running to avoid. Estimated destroyer we arrived. Cracked Cyl. Ring had badly came about thirty miles to our position scored Tilt Piston. and locked on to us and began Depth charging! During the next 30 to 45 While there I along with 4 others from minutes we took a hell of a beating! All Engineering dept were transferred to depth charges were close and shook USS Fulton AS 11 as ship’s company. us mightily. (Another story.) Kete went back to sea to fi nish fi rst patrol and returned to Guam Word was we were attempting with for repairs. Left on 2nd and last patrol. Flares for a friendly I D. Time passed Reported lost March 20 1945. My good and the beating continued. Finally quiet fortune. I was a survivor! Dallas, 1943 and word was passed. Our destroyer Dallas Dolan, Submariner Painless Nell’s sister, Painful Jo, inked me the fi rst time and I hardly cried.. Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 37

Remember when your clean clothes were the ones at the bottom of the Bunk Bag? Page 38 American Submariner

family. The memorial is located on the side of Moonshine Lost Boats Memorial Mountain several miles from Burnsville off of NC Hwy 197. Located in the Mountains of North Carolina Directions to the memorial can be found on the USSVI website by clicking on the Sub Memorials button. As a side note, the town of Burnsville was named after Captain Otway Burns who was a navel hero from the War of 1812.

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

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

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

Chief Flowers, rode the USS GATO (SS 212) during WWII, actually constructed this memorial himself with some assistance from a friend. It is constructed entirely of native white stone. Included is a large carved stone plaque listing the 52 boats lost during WWII which is set into the wall of the base for the second tier. Above the plaque on the second tier is an anchor and chain. On the third tier a yardarm with lanyards for fl ags is located. This year Tony and his wife were able to be there when we “tolled the boats” at the memorial. Tony is standing in the At the time on the dedication, Chief Flowers had already gone left foreground wearing a red shirt in the picture of this year’s on eternal patrol but the property still belonged to the Flowers’ attendees.

Boat Reunions Charleston’s 3098, e-mail: [email protected] and Marty Ses- Cold War Memorial sler, (843) 871-1536, e-mail: [email protected] To reserve the Cold War Memorial contact Angie Bennett at (843) 971-5057. When you call Angie be sure to ask her If you are planning to have a boat reunion in Charleston, to unlock the power outlets for the date selected if you need South Carolina, what better place to hold your memorial electrical power. service than the Cold War Submarine Memorial at Patriot’s Point? EDITOR’S NOTE: Just left a reunion out there for USS Scamp It is located in Mount Pleasant, S.C., just minutes from the SSN-588. (5-9 May 2009) Interesting place, friendly wait- major hotels where reunions are held. resses. Be sure and ask Buddha about Bert & Ernie. The only Bert & Ernie I ever knew were from Maine. The memorial is free of charge and can be reserved by your Never thought they’d go south ! boat. Additionally, USSVI Charleston Base stands ready to assist you with your needs. We have a PA system, music system, podium, klaxon, chairs, tables, etc. We will assist you as necessary to get these items to your memorial service.

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

There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works. Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 39 SLO Sub Vets Celebrate

Dolphin Vest Clasp “New Item”

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

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

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

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

Check out all the events and available Hotels and RV Parks in the AS on the Web at USSVI.ORG Page 40 American Submariner CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BOWFIN (SS287) Report of Second War Patrol. [Modifi ed to fi t this abridged report]

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN. (2nd para) The highlights of the patrol were the very aggressive and well planned attacks of 26 November, where two ships of a fi ve-ship convoy were sunk in the early morning, and a single USS Bowfi n SS-287 Pearl Harbor today ship sunk at 1058 after a determined chase submerged and surface. Again on the 28th November the BOWFIN ran into a (#10 door would not open). Saw one hit under the stack. fi ve-ship convoy with several escorts and three ships were Whistle stopped blowing and all lights went out. Continued sunk, the third after the BOWFIN had been hit by a richochet. to hear depth charges or explosions. To quote BLUEFISH, The commanding Offi cer with coolness and tenacity, and “They sound fi ne when you’re on the surface”. believing his own ship fatally holed, sank the ship fi ring on him thereby saving his own vessel, besides sinking an important Investigation of SJ radar reveals that due to improper tuning enemy unit. The above attacks are worthy of study by all I have had a blind spot ahead explaining why I have been submarine offi cers. running into things with no warning.

U.S.S. BOWFIN - Report of SECOND War Patrol. [Later in the morning] SJ contact on target. [TORPEDO ATTACK #2] Fired four bow tubes. Spread by periscope. (B) NARRATIVE - 26 November, 1943 - SD got large Saw four hits completely demolish target which disappeared contacts at 2 miles and 1 mile. SJ fi nally perked up and in less than two minutes. gave me contacts on each side from 1,000 to 4,000 yards. I realized I was in the middle of a convoy. Again backed full 27 November, 1943 - Decided that I am off Buffalo Rocks to avoid ramming another large tanker, and realized all ships north of Hon Kan Island. Sighted a ship standing south along were northbound. A careful sweep revealed that the convoy the coast. Decided I better get on the surface if I wanted to consisted of fi ve ships. Commenced tracking. catch anything bigger. There is some doubt in my mind about wasting torpedoes on this fellow, but as Admiral LOCKWOOD [TORPEDO ATTACK #1] Fired three at leading vessel. Saw says, “Submarines must take what comes rather than one hit and in the rolling fl ame of explosion and fi re saw the wait for something better”; and I could not forget Admiral bridge, bow section and high forward mast of large tanker CHRISTIE’s remark: “There is a ship”. disintegrate. A second hit, explosion and fi re amidships (range 800 yards) revealed a second high mast amidships and low [TORPEDO ATTACK #3] Fired three stern tubes at funnel all the way aft. Large fi res started, but went out as the Frenchman. Two hits and he disintegrated. Sank in less than bow sank and the center section went awash. Only light left one minute. was gasoline (could smell it) burning on the water near the target. Lights appeared all along the after section revealing 28 November, 1943 - BILLFISH reported targets. Commenced three life boats in davits. Great, deep steam whistle started tracking. My portion of convoy consists of fi ve ships and blowing continuously. As all this took place had shifted to several escorts. Three very large targets, two large ones. second target and fi red fi rst shot at second vessel. Leading Planned to give leading and largest target four bow tubes, tanker stopped cold and swung broadside to me. Had to the second two bow tubes and to hold my only two stern check fi re and back emergency to keep from ramming tanker tubes for future developments. Told BILLFISH that I was as fi rst torpedo hit second ship with great rumbling explosion 7,000 yards ahead of targets and ready to attack. He told and fl are up of fl ame which quickly went out. me to go ahead.

My situation was now this: I was less than 300 yards from [TORPEDO ATTACK #4] Fired four bow tubes at leading and damaged tanker, with second damaged vessel about 1,500 largest target. Four hits. Target sank in about four minutes. yards beyond him and what I thought were depth charges Shifted to second vessel in column. Fired two bow tubes. going off to starboard. Decided to forget center and second Two hits. Target down aft and awash to bridge. Third large ship and fi nish off the tanker before escort arrived as I fi gured vessel of column abeam to port about 1,800 yards and this might be the biggest ship I’d ever shoot. Swung stern bearing down on me. I recognize my dangerous position, but to him and opened range. At 1,200 yards remaining portion I could not pass up the chance to fi nish off damaged ship. of damaged tanker took up full binocular fi eld giving him a Decided to give damaged ship my only two torpedoes aft. remaining length of at least 400 feet. Fired three stern tubes Third vessel of column opened fi re on me with fi ve or six inch Monuments & Memorials; It’s what we do! Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 41 gun at 500 yards. Second shot appeared to hit engine room. EDITOR’S NOTE: 1943 sounds like it was a long time ago, Shells now passing overhead. I think he had spotted me as I sounds like ancient history. It was before 8 track, Chevy turned dead ahead of him. Fired two stern tubes at third large did not yet have a V-8 engine (Ford did), Playboy magazine vessel. Two hits amidships. He stopped shooting at me and did not exist and meat and shoes were rationed. The fact began to sink, sagging in the middle. Just before fi ring I had is that I was four years old and living with my mother and a a report that the pressure hull was not pierced, but I knew woman named “Hermance” in a virtual slum area known as we had some damage aft. Steadied on convoy course and the “Anchorage”, next to the Naval Supply Depot in Clearfi eld, began to pull ahead while I reloaded my last two torpedoes Utah. I clearly recall that the “pre-school” I attended gave each forward. Engine room reported taking water through the main of us a tablespoon of “Castor Oil” followed by a tablespoon induction. It wasn’t washing over the bridge so I now knew chaser of “Catsup” every day. (It was either a punishment or that the shell hit had been in the superstructure and had some form of witchery meant to ward off evil spirits) pierced the induction lines aft. Bow tubes ready. I now had fourth vessel on port quarter with no escorts on his port bow Another fact is that this War Patrol report is “Living, current, apparently searching to seaward, and the fi fth vessel on my today” history. Walking among us is a man who made every starboard beam. Fired last two torpedoes to hit with cold set- one of Bowfi n’s nine war patrols. He is the last of those several up. First torpedo prematured at 13 seconds (less than 500 Shipmates who shared that accomplishment He was a Fire yards ahead of me) and probably defl ected second torpedo Controlman aboard Bowfi n and was personally involved in as I got no hit. This premature cost me a 7,000 ton vessel every shot she took. He is a retired CWO3 who served on and two sure hits. board the USS Sicard, USS New Mexico, USS Bowfi n, USS Piper, USS Tang, USS Nereus, and the USS Grand Canyon Shifted to battery and put pressure in boat. Hull is tight with and now serves as the multi-term President of the San Diego fl appers closed, but pressure bled off rapidly on opening Chapter of the WW-II Sub Vets. He is also a Life Member of main induction hull fl appers. Beginning to get light. Stopped the Scamp Base in Escondido, Ca. His name is Art Carter. and got repair party on deck. Hit had ricocheted up onto the He lives quietly with his wife, Edna May, and an extremely superstructure and exploded between the pressure hull and protective miniature Pinscher in San Diego. the starboard induction pipe. Induction pipe is ripped open badly with numerous additional small holes. Ventilation piping I call Art every now and then and he sometimes calls me, just has several holes. All low pressure blow lines aft completely because we want to do it. You can be in touch with your history carried away, (whole sections ripped and mangled) and deck too. Call one of your WWII Sub Vet buddies today!. planking broken. Pressure hull is nicked. Plugged all small holes in piping and put quick soft patch over big ragged hole USS Bowfi n (SS/AGSS-287), Balao-class submarine, was in induction. Surfaced and headed for Dangerous Ground. [In a ship of the United States Navy named for the bowfi n, a their spare time they sunk other ships with their deck gun.] voracious, predatory fi sh native to the Great Lakes, the Boat credited with 70,948 tons sunk. CO W.T. Griffi th. Mississippi valley, and nearby waters. This dull green, iridescent fi sh is little used for food or sport (but has a terrible bite).

Bowfi n was laid down by the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard at Kittery, Maine on 23 July 1942; launched on 7 December 1942 by Mrs. Jane Gawne, wife of Captain James Orville Gawne; and commissioned on 1 May 1943, Commander Joseph H. Willingham in command. The Bowfi n was de-commed and This WWII Patrol Report is provided by St. Marys Submarine re-commed several times until fi nally being struck from Naval Museum. Presently entering into MS Word nearly 1,800 WWII records on 1 Dec 1971. Bowfi n became a museum boat on Patrol, Lost and Wolfpack Reports from offi cial Navy patrol 1 August 1979. reports with the assistance of volunteers. Located in Saint Marys, GA, just 10 miles east of I-95 Exit-3. OPEN Tue-Sat EDITOR’S NOTE (2): Until reading it in Wikipedia, I thought 1000-1600 & Sun 1300-1500. CLOSED all Mondays, Easter, that the Bowfi n was named after the Bowfi n Whale - “Live Thanksgiving and two weeks over the Christmas - New Year and learn” Period.

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

Why was it that as soon as the spuds were out of the shower - the stills went south? Page 42 American Submariner

we can recruit 250 new members in the Central Region prior Central Region to the San Diego convention. With your help shipmates this goal will be met. Members of several bases in District 3 travelled to Omaha, Quarterly News Nebraska to work on the USS Marlin located in Freedom Park. David Farran District Commander CRD3 and Bill Lee Base Another USSVI convention is again approaching in San Commander of Lockwood Internet have been working on The Diego. Bonny and I both look forward to renewing friendships USS Marlin project for several months in conjunction with the with all our Central Region and USSVI friends in San Diego. Omaha parks and recreation department. The USS Lockwood Cincinnati base has made plans to host a great convention Internet Base has made the USS Marlin their Submarine in 2010. Memorial project for 2009. Donations to help with preparing the USS Marlin and getting it painted can be sent to Bill Lee, We will have a new base in Tennessee located in Chattanooga, 312 W. Main Street, Clarinda, Iowa 51632. the Carbonero base with (23) Charter Base members. This base should be up and running by the time you receive your Central Region District 2 held its 2009 District Convention next American Submariner. District Commander Tom Barnes and Submarine Ball April 23-26 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. CRD2 will travel to Tennessee and will present the Base This was a joint convention with the North Central Region Charter to the base and swear in the new Base Offi cers. WWII shipmates, Don Morell Director. Nearly all the State Commanders of the North Central Region were in attendance. I would like to see every base in the Central Region host a Bob L. Devore National President and National Recording Tolling of the Boat ceremony for the community near their base Secretary Walter “Gus” Krause were in attendance. Most of in 2009. This is a great way to recruit new Base members the Base Commanders from District Two were in attendance. and let the communities within 50 miles of the base know that Over 115 shipmates and their ladies attended the Submarine the Submarine Veterans are a active Veterans group in the Ball. Crash Dive Base hosted the District meeting along with community. Newspapers(your state).com will provide the list Tom Barnes CRD2 Commander and Vic VanHorn VDC2 of all the newspapers in your state. The District Commander Central Region. or Regional Director will be happy to help with preparing a news release if any base needs assistance. Many bases and Three Chiefs were recognized that weren’t piped over the museum boats conducted Tolling of the Boat ceremonies side when they retired. They were offi cially piped over the Memorial Day Weekend. To perpetuate the memory of our side with Chiefs and Shipmates in Uniform acting as side shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of their duties boys. A Tolling of the Boats ceremony for the 52 boats and (2) while serving their country. boats lost in the Cold War was conducted and the carnations were dropped over the side from the USS Cobia by Regional This will be the fi rst year that the Central Region Director at Director Carl Schmidt and Don Morell WWII North Regional the Annual Business meeting in San Diego will be presenting Director. The keynote speaker at the banquet and Submarine a plaque to a base in each of the (4) districts of the Central Ball was Douglas T. Bisel (SS) Rear Admiral US Navy. Region that recruit the most base members from September 2008 to August 15, 2008. Small, mid-size and large bases Bonny and I attended the Tolling of the Boats ceremony at each have an equal chance to be a District winner. I believe Fort Mitchell, Kentucky hosted by the Cincinnati Base at the largest free standing bell in the United States. We would like to extend a BZ to the Cincinnati Base

Carl Schmidt CRD

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

If we do not tell this generation of Submariners & the World about us - Who will do it? Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 43 MARBLEHEAD BASE

INDUCTS THEIR NEWEST HOLLAND CLUB MEMBERS AT THE ANNUAL BIRTHDAY BASH

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

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

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

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

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

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

Each of the inductees were presented with a packet that HAPPENED! included a patch and two certifi cates. A letter of recognition was read from William E Britt, Holland Club Commander. “THE DEEP STEAL” An exciting Cold War All Holland Club members present stood to be recognized. submarine adventure that takes place in Russia, the After dinner, the new Holland Club members cut the Birthday U.S., the Philippines and on and under the South Cake. China Sea. The author is a retired Submariner and Deep Sea Diver. $18.50 - Includes shipping and A memorable evening was enjoyed by over 100 guests from handling... Send check to: BP BOOKS ENT. 241 both Bases. PLEASANT BAY ROAD HARWICH, MA 02645 Snorkel Patty, Big Rusty, Miss Bev, Hungry Helen; I miss you. Where’dja go? LAST CALL ! Page 44 American Submariner CLASS ADS... MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

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

The SubFarer; Test Depth 660’ Full Swiss movement Custom designed for Submariners. Only at Bold Military Jewelry See page 33 800-630-2965

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

Gilly & Grapefruit - It doesn’t get any better than that ! Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 45 The speaker for the navy was a submariner on recruiter duty Memorial Day at the here in Houston, Christopher Rawls ETC, SS, USS Cavalla,

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

Grady Harrison, former DCA from the USS James Madison and the Chairman of the Cavalla Historical Foundation served as the MC. The Service was well attended by veterans and civilians. Many of the Cavalla volunteers were present Retired Captain Jack King, former CO of the nuclear including Mike Pullen, Dave Stoops, Jim Kegerris from Cavalla, Capt. Zeb Alford, ret., former CO of the Shark, Sam Vicksburg, Jeff Morris and his wife Sue from Dallas, Ernie Houston and XO of the Cavalla and who put the Tullibee into Connor and many others. commission.

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

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

A number of others whose names I cannot remember were there as well and many of those who volunteer on the Cavalla worked hard to prepare for the service and were present for the service. It was wonderful to see so many of the volunteers who have worked on the Cavalla since the beginning of the The Tolling of the Boats was conducted by the WWII Subvets, restoration in 1998. John McMichael and Billie were of course and identical twins Bill and Bob Hamilton who served together there and A Couple of the WWII submariners whose names for 4 years on the Pomfret. A number of WWII members from I remember were James Clepper who qualed on the SS the San Jacinto chapter were present also. 227, and also served on SS-377, SS-342, SS-320, Al Kvello, Robert Fennell Because of the fence around the Naval exhibit we could no Always Remember, Never Forget. longer approach the water to place a wreath, so one of the CHF members had arranged to have the Coast Guard drop the wreath by helicopter. They did a beautiful job, hovering just above the water, and placed the wreath while providing the meaning of the wreath in the memory of those “still on patrol” who have no grave, and what it represented by loudspeaker so the audience could hear it. It was a touching moment and the wreath bobbed in place during the balance of the ceremony as the day was quite still.

It was a beautiful, touching and poignant ceremony and it was an honor to have the WWII subvets still with us able to conduct the tolling ceremony.

While the overall service was for all military services, and each branch gave a brief comment on their service, we were honored to have a number of other submariners participate. How many remember weather bad enough on a Fleet Boat so that you Snorkled on the surface? Page 46 American Submariner

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

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

RAZORBACK GOES TO ACAPULCO!

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

RAZORBACK had a new skipper, LCDR Bill Boose (sp?) who relieved LCDR Chuck Stastny. Boose had come from BuSh- ips in a sonar program. He wasted no time in connecting the ship’s sonar to the SS radar in the conning tower. He could be That was going to be the highlight of the trip except that the found there, wrapped in webs of wiring and soldering gun in destroyer developed a disintegrating shaft bearing and turned hand, much to the consternation of the ET’s! But it worked! around to return to San Diego on one screw and taking the And we had a rough visual display in the conning tower for paymaster with it! Having no money when arriving in Acapulco the fi rst time of incoming sonar pings, ship screws and other was a potential disaster but the day was saved when we an- sea noise. Looked bad but worked good! nounced a quiet and unoffi cial open house for local dignitaries and American tourists and carefully ‘leaked’ our plight. RAZORBACK was selected to make a cruise to Acapulco in company with a destroyer full of Naval Reservists and a One tourist couple came to the boat and said that their son paymaster. We had left San Diego with all of our monies left had been in the RAZORBACK crew some years before and ashore, expecting to be paid in Acapulco. had loved the ship. They wanted to say “thank you” and of- fered to host the entire crew (in two sections) at the famous On the way south one day during a dive, Sonar reported a seaside hotel restaurant where as a fi nale the diver dove down strange hissing sound on a bearing ahead. On hearing this, a narrow gap into the sea. We ‘penniless’ sailors accepted the Captain dashed down into Sonar, located beneath the with gratitude and enjoyed the experience after making that control room fl oor. The Captain called up “Tell the Conn to wonderful couple “Honorary Submariners”. Other tourists head for the noise, take her down to 400 ft, all ahead 1/3, were equally generous and our week stay in Acapulco was and tell the cooks to muster every empty pot, pan and box scored a success. they can fi nd”! When he came back up into the control room he said “THOSE ARE SHRIMP!” As shrimp swim they click This experience turned out to be typical for RAZORBACK as they fl ex. Four million clicks at the same time sounds like during her entire career. The RAZORBACK attitude and spirit a hissing noise! continued and is real today!

RAZORBACK arrived at the huge ball of swimming shrimp Does anyone else remember this trip? above us and, backing slowly, came to a hover under the shrimp, then pumped 500 lbs out of the trim tanks and began By Jay K. Davis, then LTJG, Supply Offi cer to rise up through the cloud of shrimp. When we reached the [email protected]

Is it true that the SS approved method for ear wax removal was directly related to Head Valve frequency? Volume 2009 - Issue 3 Page 47

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

POB 3870 Silverdale WA 98383-3870- You can call it in: 877-542-DIVE or you can E-Mail it to [email protected] Please do it! Your name is on the reverse with your old address. NEW ADDRESS ADDRESS:______

CITY: ______STATE:______ZIP:______PHONE: ______E-MAIL:______

Please help us get your magazine to you. We really want you to get it! CHANGE OF ADDRESS SNOWBIRDS What a Concept! You could be a Snow Bird. If you have two residences that you move between on a seasonal basis; you might be a Snow Bird. The GOOD NEWS is that the COA form at the top of this page is becoming You must change your address every more and more popular! Shipmates time you move from North to South or are fi lling it out and sending it in to the South to North. The easiest way to National Offi ce and they are continuing handle this is to call Fred Borgmann to receive their American Submariner at the USSVI main offi ce and give him magazine. the information. He will tell you what he Do not be afraid to join in if you are needs. If you prefer to do it yourself, moving, have moved, are going to move. you can swap the two addresses you Stay ahead of the curve. have put into the Data Base whenever On the other hand 168 Shipmates you move from one address to the other. were reported by the (NCOA) National Or you can make a deal with your Base Change of Address service, which we Data person to make the changes for pay for, as having moved without letting you. It is not automatic. their magazine or Base know about it. We also received 94 return notices from The main offi ce phone number and e- the USPS (they cost fi fty cents each and mail is listed above in the bright yellow the magazines are thrown away). And CHANGE OF ADDRESS form. we paid a half a buck each for the 79 If you do not change your address every “Temporary Away” notices telling us time you move the Post Offi ce will throw that those shipmates took extended away your AMERICAN SUBMARINER vacations (more than 30 days) and their and charge us fi fty cents for telling us Post Offi ce has thrown away all of their about it. Call, THIS change is good! “Bulk Mail”, which includes the Ameri- can Submariner, and we all lose. 3. Step up to First Class delivery. Send twelve dollars to AMERICAN SUBMA- USSVI lost the money and the Ship- RINER POB 892616 Temecula, CA. 92589-2616 and your magazine will be au- mates lost their magazine. tomatically forwarded to your new address for a year. You will still need to send There are four possible options: us a Change of Address. 1. Continue as you have and lose the 4. Opt out of paper copies and take the Electronic AMERICAN SUBMARINER. money and the magazines. It is larger than the paper version, you get it earlier and it is no cost to replace it 2. Send in your Change of Address at whenever you want to. Just E-mail your Opt Out to the earliest moment. [email protected].

Ever fi nd yourself following an 18 wheeler just for the Diesel Fumes? NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION Page 48 American Submariner U.S.POSTAGE PAID UNITED STATES SUBMARINE VETERANS, INC. 31064 WELLINGTON CIRCLE - TEMECULA CA 92591-6930 DALLAS TX PERMIT # 2024 RETURN SERVICE CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED