Shipmate: March-April 2024

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

LEGACY OF VALOR

By Jeff Webb ’95

SKATE’s crew froze as a cable attached to a Japanese mine scraped along the length of its port side. Commander Charles W. Burlin ’44, USN (Ret.), vividly recalls the tension enveloping the submarine’s crew.

From his Cape Cod home in January 2024, Burlin shared memories of his service during World War II and his battle action in the Tsushima Straits in 1945. He was a communications officer aboard SKATE during World War II’s Operation Barney.

It was my privilege to hear this harrowing tale firsthand from a member of the Greatest Generation. It was poignant reminder of one of our most sacred missions: honoring those whose service and sacrifice secured the freedoms

Americans enjoy today.

In June, the nation will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation (USNA AA&F) is highlighting the service of WWII veteran alumni through a series of Shipmate stories and a roundtable discussion on 25 April. This event, to be held at the Fluegel Alumni Center, will center on the value of preserving and sharing the stories of World War II veterans to inspire future generations.

Our Legacy of Valor campaign began with gathering stories from WWII alumni. The first Shipmate stories appeared in the January-February issue and will continue in the May-June and July-August issues. Complementary digital content can be found at www.youtube.com/@USNAAlumni. Sharing stories of Academy alumni will continue with Korean, Vietnam and Cold war veterans in future issues this year and into 2025.

On the Road

As part of USNA AA&F’s strategic plan to connect and meet members of the alumni community where they are, Executive Vice President of Engagement and Communications Captain TJ Grady ’96, USN (Ret.), and Senior Director of Alumni Engagement and Outreach Programs Nancy Murray met chapter and parent club members in Hawaii and Northern California in January. In February, they engaged with alumni and parents in Florida. Their outreach is designed to help us measure the impact of our organization and its programs through face-to-face encounters. This will be a multi-year

endeavor with the goal of visiting each of the 104 chapters and the majority of the 77 parent clubs across the country in the next several years.

This issue of Shipmate includes the first Chapter Spotlight (see story on page 30), a new feature that highlights the great things chapters are doing for local alumni, the Naval Academy and their communities. The Jacksonville, FL, chapter offers a model for supporting veterans nonprofits, promoting the Naval Academy and engaging local alumni through a supersized Army-Navy watch party at an NFL stadium. BZ to Jacksonville for creating an extraordinary event that delivers about $30,000 annually to veterans’ charities!

Historic Command

On 11 January, we welcomed Vice Admiral Yvette Davids ’89, USN, as the Naval Academy’s 65th Superintendent (see story on page 6) during a change of command ceremony in Memorial Hall. The gathering was quite special considering the many distinguished guests, representation from classes of 1989 and 1990, the Superintendents’ personal guests and members of two Shared Interest Groups, USNA Women and the USNA Minority Association.

Davids is full speed ahead in her new role. Beyond her typical commitments during the week, she can easily be found at Navy sporting events across the Yard. From our work together, I can see Davids clearly understands the positive role our parent and alumni community can play in helping the Naval Academy execute its mission.

We again want to thank Vice Admiral Fred Kacher ’90, USN, for his steady leadership as the Academy’s 64th Superintendent. Kacher assumed duties as commander of the United States Seventh Fleet in February.

Remembering Nava and DeMars

On 6 February, Captain Miguel Nava ’17, USMC, was lost when the CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter he was aboard crashed in Pine Valley, CA. He was one of five members of the Flying Tigers of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 361 who were lost.

Miguel was a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a friend and a Marine. We join his wife, Ryann, 5-month-old son, Luca, his brother, Nikolas, and parents, Lisa and

Javier, in mourning his loss, and the loss of his four fellow Marines from the Flying Tigers of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH 361). Also perishing in the crash were: Captain Benjamin Moulton, USMC; Captain Jack Casey, USMC; Lance Corporal Donovan Davis, USMC; and Sergeant Alec Langen, USMC.

Our Alumni Association and Foundation Memorial Affairs team helped coordinate support and response with the Naval Academy and the family.

I conveyed the following thought on social media and email, and wish to repeat it here as well: When we lose brave men and women who selflessly serve in the defense of our freedom, it is brutal and heartbreaking. We should pause and be reminded that our service members accept immense risks every day. When they perish, as we grieve, we must lock arms as a community and embrace their classmates, friends and family.

Admiral Bruce DeMars ’57, USN (Ret.), passed away on 3 February in Falls Church, VA, at the age of 88 after a brief illness. DeMars was born in Chicago, IL, on 3 June 1935. He is a 2009 Alumni Association and Foundation Academy Distinguished Graduate.

DeMars is survived by his wife of 66 years Margaret; his brother Lee (Joanne); his son Bruce Fitzhugh DeMars (Patty); his daughter Margaret Troup (Jamie); three grandchildren, Rebecca Gills (Matthew), Bruce (Brinn) and Catherine Troup; and three great grandchildren, Grace Gills, Everly Gills and Hattie DeMars.

Beginning in 2010, I had the honor of serving on a Naval Academy committee chaired by DeMars. He had a sharp mind, a quick wit and an uncanny ability to steer a discussion to a decision quickly, but without rushing. Spending that time with him was enjoyable and a phenomenal learning experience. We join his family in mourning his loss. a

U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation President and CEO Jeff Webb '95 met with CDR Charles W. “Bill” Burlin ’44, USN (Ret.), in January 2024. Burlin is among the alumni who participated in Shipmate's Legacy of Valor series on World War II veterans.

MALE ALLIES

Men play pivotal roles in aiding women to integrate and succeed at all levels of command. 10

SPECIAL BONDS

Married alumni forge unique ties through shared experiences in Annapolis 16

HISTORY

LESSONS

Class of 1965 hopes its project inspires others to document their stories. 22

NEW SUPE

VADM Davids ’89 makes history as the first woman appointed Superintendent at the Naval Academy. 6

YARD ADVOCACY

Two midshipmen raised awareness of POWs during the Vietnam War 26

CHAIRMAN MORAN

ADM Moran ’81 shares his vision as A&SP chairman. 28

Get the Goat

This Bill is hiding somewhere in this issue. Find him and email us at getthegoat@usna.com with the correct page number and you will be entered into a drawing for a prize from the Alumni Association. Good luck! The drawing is limited to the first 100 correct answers, so get reading.

Bill was visiting the Fluegel Alumni Center on the top of page 36 in the January-February 2024 issue of Shipmate. DEPARTMENTS 2

Our Mission

We strengthen our MEMBERS’ BONDS to the Academy and to each other, to help them THRIVE AS LEADERS in and out of uniform and reach their FULL POTENTIAL

SHIPMATE is the official alumni magazine of the United States Naval Academy. On the Cover

ALL HANDS

Fair Winds and Following Seas to Chadwick ’62

Rear Admiral Stephen Kent Chadwick ’62, USN (Ret.), the 71st Commandant of Midshipmen, passed away on 18 January after a three-year battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

He enlisted in the Marine Corps, at the age of 17, with parental permission. After bootcamp at Parris Island, SC, he attended Birmingham Southern College and earned an appointment to the Naval Academy.

Rear Admiral Chadwick’s assignments included commanding two Navy warships and a combat advisory group in the Republic of Vietnam. As a Navy captain, he commanded a Tactical Destroyer Squadron of up to 15 ships in the Atlantic and Sixth Fleet (Mediterranean) operations.

He served as Commandant at the Academy between 1985 and 1987. After a year as the head detailer at the Bureau of Naval Personnel, he assumed command of Navy Region Hawaii and all surface ships assigned to the Mid-Pacific Group.

Following his retirement from the Navy, he continued his mission of service on the board of nonprofit organizations including the Naval Academy Athletic & Scholarship Foundation, Heritage Conservancy, 1st LT Travis Manion Foundation and as a court appointed special advocate for children at CASA of the South Plains. For five years, he was president of the Naval Academy Class of 1962.

The funeral service for Chadwick will be held at the Naval Academy Chapel at 10:30 a.m. on 10 May followed by burial at the Naval Academy Cemetery. ®

Week of Gratitude

During the fifth annual Week of Gratitude (9-11 January), U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation (USNA AA&F) staff placed personal phone calls to 1,771 supporters, recorded 15,098 ThankView video messages and contacted 77,840 alumni, parents and friends with our kickoff email.

The Week of Gratitude is designed to share messages of thanks and gratitude to alumni, donors and friends of the Naval Academy. The USNA AA&F received more than 210 submissions to our mosaic at www.usna.com/gratitude, with many donors and volunteers adding messages on why they support the Academy.

Included among the messages was this one, “I support USNA because my time in Annapolis is one of the high points of my life and career and I want to share that opportunity with others.” ®

Legendary Coach Cantello Passes Away

Al Cantello Sr., who coached cross country and track and field at the Naval Academy for 55 years, passed away on 17 January. Cantello retired from coaching on 30 August 2018. He served as Navy’s head cross country coach for 50 years.

During his time working with midshipmen athletes, Cantello collected a combined 49 N-Star victories over Army as the head coach of the cross country and track and field programs.

Cantello was a standout on the La Salle University track and field team from 1951-55, where he was a two-time All-American in the javelin. He was enshrined in La Salle’s Hall of Athletes as a charter member, as well as the Middle Atlantic Conference Hall of Fame and Penn Relays Wall of Fame for his individual success.

A world-class competitor in the javelin throw, Cantello once held every national and international record in the event. In 1959, he set a world record in the javelin (282 feet, 3 inches) and the following year he competed with the U.S. Olympic team at the 1960 Games in Rome. In 1964, Sport magazine named Cantello to its all-time track and field team and voted him the world’s greatest competitor in the javelin.

Upon his graduation from La Salle, Cantello joined the Marine Corps, where he served for 10 years.

Competing at the Heptagonal Championships through 2002, Cantello and the Midshipmen earned outright titles in 1974, 1992 and 1996. After joining the Patriot League in 2003, Cantello and the Midshipmen captured eight Patriot League Championships in nine years from 2008 through 2016. His teams made 12 appearances at the NCAA Championships. The 1985 and 1992 teams recorded the highest finish for a Midshipmen squad, as they both placed seventh overall. ®

Al Cantello Sr., who coached Navy’s cross country and track & field teams for 55 years, died on 17 January. Under his direction, the midshipmen made 12 appearances in the NCAA Championships.

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

The 2024 Week of Gratitude offered the USNA AA&F to express its appreciation to Naval Academy alumni, donors and friends.

Caldwell ’81 Passes Old Goat Award to Aquilino ’84

Admiral John C. Aquilino ’84, USN, received the Old Goat Award from Admiral James “Frank” Caldwell ’81, USN, on 9 January at the Pentagon. The Old Goat Award is given to the longest serving Naval Academy graduate on active duty.

“It has been my absolute privilege to serve as the Old Goat for the last year and a half,” Caldwell said. “Admiral ‘Lung’ Aquilino is an amazing leader and the consummate warfighter. He’ll make an excellent Old Goat while continuing to serve our navy and our Nation. ’81 Sir!”

Aquilino accepted the award with a bit of humor.

“Everyone already calls me an old goat, I guess this just formalizes it,” he said. “I receive this award behalf of the entire proud Naval Academy Class of 1984, all of whom, I can assure you, would be surprised that I am the last man standing. It has been the honor of my life, and I can think of no greater career than as a fighter pilot in service of the United States Navy.

“I want to thank Admiral Frank Caldwell for his service and leadership for more than 40 years in uniform in the greatest Navy in the world. Thank you, U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation for this award, I cannot wait to pass it on.”

The Old Goat Award started with Rear Admiral Alton Stocks ’72, USN (Ret.). ®

Shipmate Online

Shipmate offers a hearty BZ to the Classes of 1974 and 1999, as they commemorate their 50th and 25th graduation anniversaries. We thought it would be fun to reflect on Shipmate’s coverage of your graduation year and what was happening in the fleet and on the Yard during those times.

We invite all classes and alumni to explore

our digital archives that include all Shipmate issues dating back to the inaugural issue in May 1938 at www./usna.com/ shipmate/archived-issues. ®

Health Resources Online

As part of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation’s (USNA AA&F) endeavor to expand its efforts to support alumni, the Alumni Support Services department created a medical facilitation webpage. This online resource is designed to be the ultimate “gouge” handbook for alumni when it comes to navigating the Veterans Administration, understanding Tricare benefits or connecting to a Veterans Service Organization (VSO).

Visitors to www.usna.com/alumni-support-services-medical-facilitation will find information on the following topics:

• VA Benefits

• VSO’s

• TRI Care Options

• End of Life Support

• Living Will Resources

• Mental Health Services

• Parkinson’s Resources

• Integrated Health Options

There is also a medical discussion board on myusna.com that supports alumni helping alumni in times of need. In addition, USNA AA&F will start providing quarterly health webinars starting in late April. The first webinar will be on VA Benefits.

In addition to the medical facilitation site, Alumni Support Services is focused on assisting alumni with its career programs, continuing education, coaching and mentorship, memorial services and alumni spouse support. The new landing page that houses all these resources can be accessed by going to usna.com and choosing “Alumni Support Services” from the “Find and Connect” or “Events and Programs” drop down menus. Over this first year we are identifying where we are leading activities, where we are partnering with others and where we are just facilitating information. The Alumni Support Services department will be built over the next three years. ®

ADM John C. Aquilino ’84, USN (left), receives the Old Goat Award from ADM James F. Caldwell ’81, USN, on 9 January at the Pentagon. The award is passed along to the longest serving Naval Academy graduate on active duty.

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

As the Classes of 1974 and 1999 prepare to celebrate their 50th and 25th anniversaries, respectively, this year, the USNA AA&F wanted to spotlight Shipmate coverage during their graduation years.

HISTORIC COMMAND

DAVIDS ’89 TAKES HELM AS SUPERINTENDENT

Stars descended upon Memorial Hall for a historic moment in early January.

Retired and active-duty flag officers, current and former Secretaries of the Navy and Chiefs of Naval Operations, Distinguished Graduates and barrierbreaking trailblazers were among those who packed the solemn chamber on 11 January to witness Vice Admiral Yvette Davids ’89, USN, officially take the reins as the Academy’s 65th Superintendent from Vice Admiral Fred Kacher ’90, USN.

The change of command ceremony drew what Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti called more than 2,700 years of “inspirational leadership.” Members of the Classes of 1989 and 1990, Women’s Shared Interest Group, Naval Academy Minority Association and several West Point alumnae were in attendance to witness Davids become the first woman to serve as the Academy’s Superintendent.

Davids’ term as Superintendent was delayed by six months thanks to a senatorial hold on all flag officer promotions. At the time of the change of command ceremony, Kacher was awaiting his promotion to vice admiral and was scheduled to head to Yokosuka, Japan, to serve as commander of the U.S. Seventh Fleet.

Franchetti said the outpouring of VIPs in attendance reflected the impact Davids and Kacher have had on the Naval Academy and the Navy.

“That is a fitting tribute and a testament to the incredible support that these two officers have,” said Franchetti, the first woman to serve as CNO.

In addition to family and friends, the change of command ceremony drew Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro ’83; former Secretaries of the Navy John H. Dalton ’64 and Kenneth J. Braithwaite ’84; former CNO Admiral Michael Gilday ’85, USN (Ret.); former Superintendent Vice Admiral Sean S. Buck ’83, USN (Ret.);

PHOTO BY MC1 ROBERT BALDOCK COURTESY OF USNA

Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti (right) congratulates VADM Yvette Davids ’89, USN (left), during the 11 January change of command ceremony in Memorial Hall. VADM Fred Kacher ’90, USN (middle), served as the Naval Academy’s 64th Superintendent before handing the reins to Davids.

Admiral Michael G. Mullen ’68, USN (Ret.); General John R. Allen ’76, USMC (Ret.); Admiral Mark E. Ferguson ’78, USN (Ret.); Michelle J. Howard ’82, USN (Ret.); Rear Admiral Julius S. Caesar ’77, USN (Ret.); and Lieutenant General Lori Reynolds ’86, USMC (Ret.).

Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley were also in attendance.

Davids appreciated the support from mentors, her trailblazing predecessors, classmates and Naval Academy sailing teammates. She accepts the responsibility of preparing midshipmen to lead with honor and integrity once they commission into the fleet or Marine Corps.

“The Naval Academy bears the torch for our culture, and I am so grateful for this opportunity to serve as keeper of the flame,” Davids said. “I am beyond honored to become the 65th Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, and I look back on the experiences of those before me to guide the way ahead.”

Davids thanked Kacher for his “tremendous example of leadership” during his tenure as Superintendent. She noted that her husband, Rear Admiral Keith B. Davids ’90, USN, and Kacher shared a common fault.

“They were only one year off from the greatest class ever,” Davids joked.

Unwavering Responsibility

While interspersing humor in her address, Davids acknowledged the Academy’s essential mission. She advised the Brigade of Midshipmen to absorb the lessons of those who came before them while preparing to confront the ever-evolving threats they’ll face after graduation.

She encouraged current and future midshipmen to strive for exceedingly higher levels of excellence.

“The Navy continues to adapt and to grow, breaking down institutional barriers to allow growth to produce war-fighting readiness and to enable the fullest expression of our core values,” Davids said. “That adaptability is also what we ask of our midshipmen, that they learn from the past and that they continue to challenge themselves … Every generation of commissioned officers is better than the last.”

Davids, whose father served 27 years as an Army officer, arrived in Annapolis from San Diego, CA, where she was acting commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Command. Her career as a surface warfare officer

“Today means we now have representation from a leadership perspective for women where we haven’t ever, in the history of the United

States Naval Academy. As a graduate of this fine institution, I feel like today the Naval Academy has come full circle. It’s well overdue and I look forward to great things from Admiral Davids.”

—Rhonda Scott ’97, Women’s Shared Interest Group director

“For alumnae, it’s really a great day. It’s going to be a game-changer.”

—Linda Postenrieder ’82, Women’s Shared Interest Group president

“It was an honor just to be in the room today. It’s a huge day. It’s been a long time coming.”

—Kendra Chappell ’94, Women’s Shared Interest Group treasurer

PHOTO BY STACY GODFREY COURTESY OF USNA

VADM Yvette Davids ’89, USN, with her twin sons, Kai and Kiernan, following the 11 January change of command ceremony in Memorial Hall.

“It’s not just today, but that she’s leading going forward and demonstrating the possibilities for everybody to lead.”

—Colonel MJ Pallotta ’94, USMCR

“It’s an incredible honor to be in attendance for a historical event. The 64 superintendents

who

came before her

have

all had

something in common and

Admiral Davids is breaking the mold. It’s incredible to know our Academy is in such great hands.”

—Lieutenant Joe Cordona ’15, USN, Athletic & Scholarship Programs trustee

“Congratulations and welcome to Vice Admiral Davids. She is a warfighter, a trailblazer, and the embodiment of Naval Academy alumni service and achievement. I am eager to see the impact she will have on the institution and most importantly the Brigade of Midshipmen on her watch. Admiral Davids is a highly energetic leader and I am excited for our work ahead.”

—Jeff Webb ’95, U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association president and CEO

includes commanding CURTIS, BUNKER HILL and Carrier Strike Group 11. She deployed in support of Desert Shield/Storm, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

Her assignment to CURTIS in support of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom in 2007 made her the first Hispanic American woman to command a Navy warship.

In 1990, Davids began a three-year assignment aboard SAN JOSE, a combat stores ship deployed in support of operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. During that deployment, Davids was ordered to BUNKER HILL from SAN JOSE. She needed special permission to board the ship because at the time women were not allowed to serve in combat zones.

She served as executive officer of the destroyer HIGGINS during the initial combat operations of Iraqi Freedom. Twenty years after she first stepped aboard BUNKER HILL, Davids assumed command of the ship and served as air defense commander for the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group.

Davids is a 2002 graduate of the Naval War College with a master of arts in national security and strategic studies and a 2012 graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces with a master of science in national resource strategy.

During her remarks in Memorial Hall, Davids thanked the women of the Class of 1980, the Academy’s first alumnae.

“They were the trailblazers who sailed into uncharted waters and opened the path for all women at the United States Naval Academy,” Davids said. “I am so grateful for your courage, outreach and support.”

Del Toro lauded Davids’ leadership credentials. He expects she will be a role model for all midshipmen.

“She is indeed the very representative of everything that makes America special,” Del Toro said. “Regardless of our race, our gender, where we came from, who we love, our nation, these United States provide opportunities to excel to those who work for it. Vice Admiral Davids, your career has led you to this moment. I could not be more excited for you to lead this school that we both love so much.”

Franchetti spotlighted the precarious times in which Davids is assuming command of the Naval Academy. Conflicts in Israel, Ukraine and in the

PHOTO BY STACY GODFREY COURTESY OF USNA

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro ’83 presents the end of tour award to VADM Fred Kacher ’90, USN, during a 11 January change of command ceremony at the Naval Academy. Kacher, who relinquished the reins as Superintendent to VADM Yvette Davids ’89, USN, was preparing to head to Yokosuka, Japan, to serve as commander of the United States Seventh Fleet.

Red Sea, illustrate the of significance of training the next generation of warfighters to lead immediately upon commissioning.

“Our forces are facing a complex and rapidly changing opponent,” Franchetti said. “They are facing multi-faceted threats, ones that require leaders of character. Leaders who are prepared to be bold, who have the agility to think, act and operate differently to preserve the peace and respond to the aggressors.

“Having a leader like Yvette Davids at the helm of the United States Naval Academy at this critical time, should give us all the utmost confidence that the ensigns and second lieutenants of the Class of 2024 and beyond will be ready to answer all bells wherever and whenever they are called to duty. You are breaking new ground here and you are the right person at the right time to do it.”

Davids embraced the challenge.

“Your success is our nation’s success,” Davids said. “The training you receive here will prepare you well to serve in this time of great consequence where the stakes have never been higher.”

Dream Realized

Kacher assumed the role as acting Superintendent in August 2023. He thanked Del Toro and Franchetti for the opportunity.

“Thank you both for your leadership and faith in me as I embarked upon a job that every midshipman at one point dreams about, even if just for a second,” Kacher said. “I’m confident I leave the Academy on firm footing just as it was left to me. For the second time in my life, I can say 33 years after the first time, I leave the United States Naval Academy more grateful and more prepared for the adventure ahead where I plan to do my utmost to earn this nation’s trust every day.”

Kacher said the Brigade of Midshipmen inspired him.

“It was a privilege to join our midshipmen as they committed to serve at ‘2 for 7’ night, celebrated at pep rallies, competed all over the Yard and country and earned their service assignments as future leaders in the Navy and Marine Corps,” he said.

Franchetti thanked Kacher and his staff for upholding the Academy’s mission to prepare midshipmen mentally, morally and physically while providing stability during the transition period.

“You made sure, whatever turbulence there was, it did not affect the Brigade or the mission of the Naval Academy,” Franchetti said. “Your unwavering dedication to execute the mission of the Naval Academy made sure this academic year, the reforming of the Brigade and everything that goes with it got off to a great start.” a

CONTRIBUTOR’S NOTE:

I have had many a male role model and mentor over the years, which for me and other women was a necessity due to the lack of senior women in the Navy in the 1980s. I’m grateful to have found such engaged and supportive leaders. My mentors included men like Commander Gary E. Cerezo ’79, USN (Ret.), Captain Roger Onorati ’61, USN (Ret.), Captain Dale Lumme ’80, USN (Ret.), Commander John Dillon ’72, USNR (Ret.), and Captain Rusty Yeiser ’74, USN (Ret.), who treated me and other women fairly and with respect.

As we celebrate the historic event of Vice Admiral Yvette Davids ’89, USN, taking command as the 65th Superintendent of the Naval Academy, we can look back at her career and the thousands of successful alumnae to understand the criticality of the role of men in building strong women leaders. While the success of alumnae is no doubt the result of their own merit, we do not want to overlook the moral courage of the men who step up as allies, especially at times when doing so is extremely challenging.

We in the Women’s Shared Interest Group (SIG) asked Dave and Brad to pen this article in the spirit of the fellowship so pivotal to our alumni community and our military—and in recognition that misogyny is the real enemy in the fight for gender equality. We have come a long way since the day the Class of 1980 reported on I-Day, but reality is that the C-Suite, Congress and the Flag Mess remain overly dominated by men.

Issues such as sexual assault and challenges such as childcare are often seen as gendered, not core leadership considerations as important to our military’s readiness as the number of hulls in our fleet. Now more than ever, we need men at all levels of our Navy, Marine Corps and Alumni Association to take an active role in addressing the perceived and real challenges women have, to extend a seat at the table to someone different from themselves and to create a culture where the merit of one’s work is the focus, and where each individual is given room to contribute meaningfully and lead, regardless of gender.

We believe that the vast majority of our USNA community is filled with as much pride for the accomplished women of USNA as we are, and we hope that through some of the tools described in this article, we will see even more success stories in decades to come. Go Navy!"

—Linda “Postie” Postenrieder ’82, president, Women’s Shared Interest Group

RISING ATHENAS AND WHAT GREAT MALE ALLIES DO

By Captain David G. Smith ’87, USN (Ret.), and W. Brad Johnson

There has been significant progress toward improving command climate, organizational culture and retention and advancement of women. These are the outcomes that our naval profession and Naval Academy have achieved through efforts to increase gender diversity and equity over the past four and half decades. Evidence of progress is palpable for anyone who experienced the Naval Academy in the 1980s, returns today and spends time with midshipmen. Gender dynamics in Bancroft Hall, classrooms and on athletic fields are markedly different—in a good way!

Yet, it’s no secret that women face significant disadvantages in the military and that these inequities negatively impact mission effectiveness, families’ health and stability and our national security broadly. Cultural change is hard work. Management gurus emphasize the importance of stakeholders—key decision makers and influencers—demonstrating openness to change and showcasing evidence on the connection between gender equity and mission achievement. Male leaders who publicly support gender equity and inclusion have been called “tempered radicals” because they are cultural insiders (men) with an outsider perspective (the value of gender equity)—and they are often the key to cultural change. Over the last four and a half decades, women have been working to complete gender integration in our profession. There has also been a core group of male allies (tempered radicals) showing up. Any woman affiliated with the Naval Academy can tell you who these men are.

As two former naval officers, we are fascinated by this question: What does world class male allyship for gender equity look like? In other words, what do these men actually do to promote the equitable inclusion of women at the Academy and in the fleet? We are also both professors,

“He [my staff platoon commander] viewed me just as a Marine. Not a female Marine; not a small, short Marine; just a Marine like any other male Marine who wanted to be an infantry officer or artillery officer.”

—Capt Virginia Brodie ’15, USMC

Capt Virginia Brodie ’15, USMC, was one of the first two female Marine artillery officers who graduated from the Basic Officer Leader Course on 17 May 2016 at Fort Sill. She earned a place at the top of her class.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. ARMY

researchers and social scientists who value and leverage research evidence. Our research yielded some consistent themes: A lot of men recognize the toll that codified sexism and inequity exacts from their mothers, sisters, daughters and women colleagues. They grasp both the organizational and team performance case and the moral imperative for full gender inclusion in the workplace. They see equity and equality as an expression of their commitment to dignity and respect, and they are eager to learn how to show up as better allies for women at work. In other words, there are a lot of good guys out there who are creating change and even more who just aren’t sure what to do and how to get started.

So, we created an ally playbook for the average dude, a guide for men on showing up as a genuine accomplice, collaborator and advocate with women in creating a workplace that works for everyone. To do it, we interviewed lots of women, each a leader in her field, and asked them what genuine male allies actually did in behavioral terms. Several of these women are highlighted in this article so that you hear their voices and what was most impactful from their perspective. Many women nominated a specific male ally as an exceptional exemplar. We interviewed those men too. And in doing so, we discovered something else: There’s a lot in this for men who do allyship well. Men who often collaborate

and partner with women at work have wider networks, better access to information, stronger friendships, increased emotional intelligence, better work outcomes and recognition for their inclusive style of leadership.

What follows are highlights of some of the salient ally actions gleaned from our research and included in our books Good Guys: How Men Can Become Better Allies for Women in the Workplace and Athena Rising: How and Why Men Should Mentor Women. We define allyship as actively promoting fairness and equity in the workplace through supportive and collaborative personal relationships and public acts of sponsorship and advocacy intended to drive systemic improvements in the workplace culture.

We’ll start with some of the interpersonal actions and move on to some public actions that require some serious courage and fortitude to create sustainable change in everyday practices that affect everyone.

Interpersonal Allyship

Allies saw women as competent leaders with potential and learned to overcome biased perceptions of women at work. Recalling her experience breaking the direct ground combat barrier, Captain Virginia Brodie ’15, USMC, explained how an ally believed in her, opened doors and ushered her into the Marine Corps’ first Artillery School class with women.

“He was my staff platoon commander, an infantry officer in charge of my platoon,” Brodie said. “He’s responsible for counseling and career guidance for MOS. He viewed me just as a Marine. Not a female Marine; not a small, short Marine; just a Marine like any other male Marine who wanted to be an infantry officer or artillery officer. He saw me as an artillery officer, but the only problem was the law didn’t allow that yet. His plan was to set me up for success with an MOS that would help me become an artillery officer later on in my career.” In Captain Brodie’s case, it happened sooner than expected.

LtCol

Amy McGrath ’97, USMC (Ret.), was the first woman Marine Corps pilot to fly the F/A-18 on a combat mission. She appreciated the efforts of men who mentor their women colleagues.

Tabitha Strobel ’10 was part of the first cohort of women to serve on submarines. Like many women entering traditionally male-dominated spaces, Strobel felt it necessary to be deliberate when seeking advice from male colleagues to avoid misconstrued perceptions.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. NAVY

PHOTO COURTESY OF LTCOL AMY MCGRATH ’97, USMC (RET.)

Some men also had concerns over how other male colleagues might perceive them when they support, mentor and advocate for women in their unit—but not allies. Women feel this wariness too and purposefully work to manage situations to avoid giving people something to talk about. Tabitha Strobel ’10 described this in her experience in the first cohort of women to serve on submarines.

“Perceptions were certainly an issue,” Strobel said. “I always kept that in mind whenever I was seeking out advice. If I wanted to ask my chief a question or needed advice from him, I would always be very deliberate. I never really hung around in the division spaces. That wasn’t my hangout, that’s my workplace. I just go there to do the job that I have to do, to make sure things were going well, and then I would leave.

“I thought that was really important because on a submarine your workspace is your personal space. I tried to be very deliberate in where I was going and why I was there.”

In our research we found that men who lean into allyship with women at work leveraged various motivations. First, we often heard narratives that challenged their sense of fairness when a woman they knew personally or professionally (family member, friend, work peer, mentee, mentor) shared how she had been unfairly treated through biased or discriminatory behavior—

“I would make sure to seek their [women] input, so that the guys in the room who had the most experience and had that alpha male bravado didn’t steal the show just because they were the ones who talked first.”

—CDR Michael Wisecup ’98, USN (Ret.)

injustice was a powerful motivator. Lieutenant Colonel Amy McGrath ’97, USMC (Ret.), recalled her experiences with men as allies.

“The best allies and mentors while I was in the Marine Corps, were racial minorities—usually African American men. These men had a better understanding through their own personal experiences that they needed to reach out to me. They understood what it meant to be isolated and that the deck is stacked against you, so they were more readily available to connect.”

Second, in a military setting we often heard men talk about doing what’s right for people. It’s a part of their leadership style. Finally, more leaders today understand the compelling research evidence that shows how our teams and organizations are more effective when the composition is more diverse and inclusive.

Allies pushed back on false narratives about the risks of engaging with women at work and treated their own anxiety by deliberately initiating more conversations, friendships and mentorships with female colleagues— exposure therapy. It’s not enough to avoid harassing women—allies don’t ignore women either. You can’t lead women if you’re not willing to have one-on-one meetings with them. Full stop.

One of the keys to excellent allyship was developing awareness of how people may experience the workplace differently and how that affects performance. We like to think of this as sharpening our GQ—gender intelligence quotient—and allies started with self-educating and listening to people. It turns out that we can learn a lot when we don’t make too many assumptions about people and listen generously.

“When I first got to the submarine, my first captain had been there for a little more than a year,” Strobel said “He would often call the junior officer women to his office to see how we were doing. It was new having women on the submarine and he really wanted to make sure the process of integrating women went smoothly. I remember that he said that he was learning a lot from us.”

Men often are taken aback as they learn about the constant daily slights, dismissals and microaggressions that undermine women, making them feel unwelcome and devalued. Allies leveraged this GQ to create sustainable cultural change in their units.

Allies recognized that all women are not the same. Admiral Michelle Howard ’82, USN (Ret.), emphasized the importance in her mentorship of how her male mentor “remembered the unique position I was in as both a woman and minority.” Be attuned to the unique experiences and

ADM Michelle Howard ’82, USN (Ret.), was the first Black woman to reach flag rank and the first woman to wear four stars. She appreciated how her male mentor “remembered the unique position I was in as both a woman and minority.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. NAVY

CDR Michael Wisecup ’98, USN (Ret.), employed a “pull” attitude by asking specific and direct questions to women during meetings to ensure they were heard.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CDR MICHAEL WISECUP ’98, USN (RET.)

intersectional identities of the women you work with. For instance, women of color often feel entirely invisible and ignored at work; they face both sexism and racism and consequently suffer the greatest advancement and retention disparities.

Men as allies sharpened their situational awareness: they were vigilant in observing how their female colleagues were experiencing meetings and other team dynamics, while staying alert to inequities and gendered headwinds in these contexts. Here are a few examples of dynamics you should attend to:

• Who isn’t in the room and should be?

• Who is sitting at the table?

• Who is doing all the speaking?

• Who is getting interrupted or having her ideas dismissed or stolen—“bro-propriated?”

• Who’s doing the office housework— administrative nonpromotable tasks?

One of the men we interviewed, Commander Michael Wisecup ’98, USN (Ret.), related how he approached this with his SEAL Team.

“I approached people in the workplace with a ‘pull’ attitude,” Wisecup said. “In meetings, I would ask very specific and direct questions to those people who weren’t normal contributors—I was most aware of that with women, especially those who might be more junior.

“I would make sure to seek their input, so that the guys in the room who had the most experience and had that alpha male bravado didn’t steal the show just because they were the ones who talked first.”

Allies like Wisecup noticed these dynamics, then disrupted them. They pulled women’s contributions into the conversation, amplified them and ensured that women were credited for their ideas.

Without hesitation, allies included women. These men combatted belonging uncertainty and impostor feelings among women on their teams by inviting them to all work-connected gatherings. When we asked Rear Admiral Margaret “Peg” Klein ’81, USN (Ret.), about including women, she said, “It does no good if women fight effectively to gain admission but then nobody ever makes them feel

that they belong. Women want to be part of the team. My allies showed in their behavior, once you’re on the team, you’re on the team, everyone is included. Each solution to making people feel included might be a little different so learn about her and what would make her feel a part of the team.”

Allies didn’t allow women to be excluded from key conversations. And if her ideas, people or programs were being discussed, they pushed back and asked that the meeting be rescheduled when she could be present—ideally leading the discussion.

RADM Margaret “Peg” Klein ’81, USN (Ret.), is a 2022 Naval Academy Distinguished Graduate Award honoree. She said male allies made her feel part of the team.

PHOTO BY SPENCER JONES

Public Allyship

Now it’s time to see how male allies put some real skin in the game. Being a public ally requires you to hold others accountable for their actions—including your peers, shipmates and leaders. Real allies learned to live with any discomfort and overcame fear of being razzed by other men (aka, losing their “man card”).

Let’s start with this ally tactic: See something? Say something: Practice what we call ally watchdog skills. Notice sexist words and phrases, noninclusive language, harassing behavior and all manner of misogyny—too often cloaked in humor and bro-banter—and then show some spine and disrupt it. Effective disruption requires you to say something quickly— before bystander paralysis sets in. And when you say something, you’ve got to own it—don’t attribute your disruption to the fact that there’s a woman in the room. Here’s a great example from Rear Admiral Klein. “I had a squadron commander who was very aware of guys’ behavior around women—especially on deployment. Whenever a group of guys would start talking or behaving in a way that was inappropriate or disrespectful to women, he would shut it down hard. As a policy matter, he demanded that women had safe spaces to work and that they were not subject to the juvenile behavior of some men.”

Allies sponsored and advocated for women loudly. Women get less sponsoring

and advocacy than men and allies don’t wait for someone else— another woman—to advocate for her. Major Katie Higgins Cook ’08, USMCR, expressed how important having a male advocate was in her career.

“My reputation in the plane spoke for itself. It was a lot of Major Michael Valenti’s efforts in getting that reputation known. As with any person in the squadron, he advocated for those he felt were advanced or ready for higher qualifications. I just happened to be one of those people.

“I worked really hard and was appreciative that he spoke on my behalf. When he spoke up about my performance, other people I flew with backed up his opinion of me and that’s how I moved forward so quickly.”

Male allies worked at overcoming concern about what others might think and got busy talking—positively—about talented women when they weren’t in the room. They were her raving fan, touted her potential and called out her wins when upcoming opportunities and promotions were discussed. They shared some social capital, nominated her for stretch opportunities, then provided top cover and had her back so she was set up for success.

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention one last best practice— committed male allies were comfortable being uncomfortable talking about gender diversity and why it was important to them. Colonel Maria J. “MJ” Pallotta ’94, USMC (Ret.), described how one of her allies approached pushback or questioning about his motivations for gender equity.

“He was very supportive of women and would actually select women to his staff when other men would not, because he saw they were competent. About 30 percent of his staff was women which was quite unusual. So, he took crap and teasing for surrounding himself with women and building a ‘harem.’ But he was the kind of guy who didn’t care and would push back. He’d say ‘I pick the best officers. Period.’

“He’d be very vocal and forthright about it. For him to be that vocal in supporting women and not tolerating the pushback was awesome!”

Male allies, especially those in leadership roles, mitigated any personal discomfort about professional relationships with women at work by engaging more of them as colleagues, mentees, mentors and friends. They demonstrated clarity and commitment by clearly talking about why gender diversity was important to them personally and how it directly connected to their organization’s mission. Men who listen generously to women they work with, ask about their gendered experiences, then hold themselves and others accountable to make sure women are fully and respectfully included on the team— those are the real allies that we should all aspire to be. a CAPT David G. Smith ’87, USN (Ret.), is an associate professor at Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School and W. Brad Johnson is a Naval Academy psychology professor in the department of leadership, ethics and law. They co-wrote Athena Rising: How and Why Men Should Mentor Women and Good Guys: How Men Can be Better Allies for Women in the Workplace.

Col Maria J “MJ” Pallotta ’94, USMC (Ret.), said one of her allies pushed back on questions about his motivations for including women on his staff.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. NAVY

ESTABLISHING A SPECIAL BOND: MARRIED ALUMNI

The relationships we begin and foster while living in Bancroft Hall, Mother B, are often the most lasting and significant. For many, the most meaningful relationship results in marriage, most often with wedding bells right after graduation. For some, connecting with an alumni spouse happens in the fleet/ Marine Corps, at a concert, through athletic endeavors or common interest events.

There are many married alumni among us. In fact, there are more than 1,000 married alumni couples as of December 2023, according to information submitted by alumni to the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation’s database.

You may already know some alumni couples including Shannon (Revell) Webb ’04 and Jeff Webb ’95, Sharon (Hanley) Disher ’80 and Commander Tim Disher ’81, USN (Ret.), and Vice Admiral Yvette (Gonzalez) Davids ’89, USN, and Rear Admiral Keith Davids ’90, USN.

The Naval Academy Alumni Association’s Women’s Shared Interest Group (WSIG) gathered input from married alumni about their experiences, challenges and the unique perspectives of having a spouse who commissioned through the Academy. Not all submissions could be printed, but all the responses can be found on Women’s SIG myUSNA.com under Forums with the title “Establishing a Special Bond.”

Here are some of their stories.

GINA VISOR ’00 AND SHAWN VISOR ’01

Gina and Shawn Visor were deployed four times. Gina said, “without question, having a spouse that ‘gets it’ is what helped us during the difficult separation periods.”

“Women service members are often overlooked and their contributions are minimized,” Gina said. “I was deployed during 9/11. Having a spouse at home that understood and fully supported me kept me strong.”

Gina and Shawn met at the Naval Academy in September 1999. Shawn played basketball while Gina played women’s rugby and sang in gospel choir.

Shawn commissioned as a surface warfare officer while Gina was a nuclear SWO. Gina said sharing the common experience of a Naval Academy education with her husband helped her as a junior officer in the fleet.

“Being a woman in the U.S. Navy is tough mentally and physically,” Gina said. “I never had to explain my experience to Shawn, as we were both enduring it together. He respected my desire to serve our country.”

Gina and Shawn married in 2001 in Norfolk, VA, and have two boys.

Gina (Hopson) Visor ’00 and Shawn Visor ’01 met at the Naval Academy in September 1999. They leaned on each other and their shared experiences during four deployments.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE VISORS

CAPTAIN PEGGY A. FELDMANN ’80, USN (RET.), AND ANDY BROWER ’79

In 1976, as a plebe, I met my future husband, Andy Brower, who was a third class midshipman. We were in the same company (12th). Back then, dating within the same company was not an issue. We did not start dating until I was a second class midshipman and he was a firstie and we kept our dating on the lowdown for at least six months. Only in the spring of 1979 did some of his classmates give me heart-to-heart talks about dating him.

I think they would have given me the same lecture about any midshipman; I was everyone’s sister. He was the only midshipman I dated at Navy. Everyone talked about how the women had only come to USNA to find a husband and it was not on my mind; that I fell in love was surprising!

Andy went surface line (Charleston, SC) and was deployed most of my first class year. I matriculated into the Mission Essential Meteorological and Oceanographic Center (METOC) community and was stationed in Bay St. Louis, MS. We married in my hometown, San Antonio, TX, in September 1981. Part of our honeymoon was spent in Washington, DC, as I was working on a project that involved many months of travel to Keflavik, Iceland. We did not live together the first two and a half years we were married.

After Andy left the Navy, we met up in Monterey, CA, where I was at the Naval Postgraduate School, and Andy attended the Monterey Institute of International Studies. He received his master’s in international business and was licensed as a certified public accountant. His CPA work allowed him to easily move with my Navy assignments. I was working in R&D/program management and traveling. It was refreshing to come home to a spouse who understood the way the Navy worked, my time commitments, not having to explain every detail and knowing the different Navy personalities.

After being married 15 years, our daughter, Addie, was born in 1996 and our son, Cory, 4 years later. Ensign Addie Brower ’19, USN, is married to a 2019 classmate, First Lieutenant Greyson W. Cauley, USMC. Their marital journey is eerily similar to ours but they have added the two-service complexity! Today, the services work harder to accommodate meaningful co-location.

Cory received an appointment to the Class of 2025 and declined. Recently, I realized just how full circle my Naval Academy experience has taken me. After Cory declined his appointment, I told him one of the reasons I had wanted him to attend the Academy was to find a wife—like his sister and the confident women there today. Someone who knows what it means to lead and to serve; who is a team player and has grit; one who would be willing to say, “Sure, I’ll hike the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail with you, even though I’ve never hiked before and am 65 years old.” Andy and I completed the trail on 10 August 2023.

MORGEN (PAUL) TEN HOOPEN ’94

AND CAPTAIN DOUG TEN HOOPEN ’87, USN (RET.)

They met on the quarterdeck of NIMITZ (her homeport was Bremerton, WA, at the time) pier side NAS North Island in October 1995. Morgen was an ensign, Doug was a lieutenant. NIMITZ was her ship (she was the OI DIVO) and he reported for duty as the assistant navigator.

“Very simply, we spoke each other's language, acronyms and all,” Morgan said. “I feel like all our communication had (still has) an easy shortcut. That was one of those moments, like when you blanked on all your squadmates’ hometowns Plebe Summer.”

Morgen commissioned into the surface warfare community while Doug flew SH-60 Bs.

“There’s a depth of understanding— a bond that underlies all our decision making and parenting,” Morgen said. “It’s super tricky to raise kids, right? Understatement of the century—but we knew that we understood each other on almost a cellular level as we made each big decision and all the microdecisions that form your life.”

They were married at the Naval Academy Chapel in May 1998. Doug and Morgen have three daughters, Ensign Anna ten Hoopen ’22, USN, Heidi ten Hoopen and Midshipman Lael ten Hoopen ’27.

CAPT Peggy A. Feldmann ’80, USN (Ret.), and Andy Brower ’79 met during Peggy’s plebe year at the Naval Academy. They married in 1981 and their daughter, ENS Addie Brower ’19, USN, followed her parents’ path to Annapolis.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT PEGGY A. FELDMANN ’80, USN (RET.)

Morgen (Paul) ten Hoopen ’94 and CAPT Doug ten Hoopen ’87, USN (Ret.), met aboard NIMITZ in October 1995.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TEN HOOPENS

FEATURE

JACOB BURNS ’19 AND SHANNON DILLMAN ’19

Jacob and I met on a summer internship at MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Boston, MA, during second class summer in 2017. We dated during second class and first class year at the Academy.

Strengthening my relationship with Jacob and spending more time with him did result in sacrificing time with my own company. Other than that, there was no noticeable impact of us dating while at school. After completing my training pipeline for submarines, we got married in September 2020 in Mount Pleasant, SC, while Jacob was finishing up training in Charleston.

We have found that having the shared experience of both the Naval Academy and being submariners has definitely strengthened our relationship. During the first year we were married, we were only together for three weeks, however through the sporadic emails and phone calls we shared that year, we could relate to and empathize with what the other was experiencing.

There was little frustration with the lack of contact because we were having the same experience, though we were thousands of miles apart. It was more difficult being at home with a boat in the shipyard while Jacob was on deployment than it was for us to both be underway. Even then, without any contact from him or his boat, I could still guess at what he and his fellow junior officers were participating in.

I don’t remember any gender discrimination at the Naval Academy, even being the minority (albeit, a growing minority) gender. However, the submarine force, in my experience, is still adapting to having gender-integrated wardrooms and crews. Though I have not experienced any blatant issues with gender discrimination, there have been frequent enough reminders that the integration of women on submarines is still a work in progress.

Jacob’s boat was integrated with three women officers during his time on board, so he has observed the integration of women as well.

RHONDA (LEVERETT) SCOTT ’97 AND CAPTAIN BILL SCOTT ’97, USN (Ret.)

Bill and I met at NAPS and upon reporting to the Academy we were both in 9th Company. We didn’t really know each other that well at NAPS, but we became friends at the Academy. We were in the same company for three years, but our company was selected to be scrambled when the Brigade shifted from 36 to 30 companies during renovations.

We found a common bond through our lived experiences. We are each the oldest children in our families with siblings who are at least nine or more years younger. Our life stories parallel each other’s in many ways. Our shared experience at the Academy allowed each of us to lean on one another when we needed assistance with anything.

Bill was the editor of papers while I was the calculus tutor. As junior officers, we had the challenge of not being in branches of the military that could easily be collocated. We were each stationed in Oklahoma for our final duty stations with a 45-minute commute in opposite directions while raising our first child. We each knew what we were signing up for because of our Academy experience.

Bill selected USMC and served as an artillery officer from 1997-2003. I received my commission in the United States Air Force and served as a weather officer from 1997-2004.

We dated at USNA. Bill and I had a friendship before we began dating so I am not sure anyone knew we were dating other than our close friends.

We had a destination wedding in the Bahamas with family and friends in September 2000.

Having an alumni spouse is great because you don’t have to explain why nothing is scheduled the second Saturday in December. The shared alumni experience allowed us to see what we each could offer each other. For example, when either of us had to deploy there was no concern with whether we could take care of any aspect of the household. We each were accustomed to supporting the mission of our respective services.

Rhonda (Leverett) Scott ’97 and CAPT Bill Scott ’97, USN (Ret.), met at the Naval Preparatory School and both were in 9th Company at the Naval Academy.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SCOTTS

ENS Shannon Dillman ’19, USN, and ENS Jacob Burns ’19, USN, met during a summer internship at MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Boston, MA, in 2017.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ENS SHANNON DILLMAN ’19, USN

CAPTAIN LAUREN RIFFLE-GONZALEZ ’15, USMC, AND GABY RIFFLE-GONZALEZ ’17

Through shared experiences and stories of plebe year, various summer trainings and Service Selection of Marine Corps, Lauren and Gaby had a profound and unspoken bond of understanding, shared hardships and most importantly shared aspirations and dreams. “Throughout our time as junior officers, our bond became intuitive and was vital to our success,” Lauren said. “The compassion, support and consideration we shared for one another propelled our careers forward, while we had different Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) and were in different units, the Marine Corps ethos, training and core values were woven into our relationship.”

They first met at one of Lauren’s indoor track meets. They officially started dating in the summer of 2016, when Lauren was completing her MOS school training pipeline in Twentynine Palms, CA.

Lauren proposed prior to deploying to Afghanistan in 2018. Their wedding was delayed two months due to Gaby’s deployment to Norway. They were married in November 2019 on a beach on North Topsail in North Carolina. Their first duty station together was Camp Lejeune where they purchased their first home together.

Gaby said having someone who spoke her “language” made all the difference at the Academy and after commissioning into the Corps.

“It was always difficult to go home and try to explain to my relatives, who had no prior exposure to the military, what I was going through,” she said. “With Lauren, that was easy. Not only did she understand what I was going through at USNA, but as we entered the Marine Corps and dealt with everything active-duty life offered, we continued to be one another’s rocks.”

Lauren said she and Gaby have a shared virtue and sense of duty in a volunteer service. Their goals and ambitions have been closely aligned since day one, she said.

“It is hard to put into words and express admiration and appreciation for our shared lineage,” Lauren said.

Gaby said it was “incredible to mutually share my early adulthood story with my spouse.”

“We have empathy for one another in ways no one else does,” Gaby said. “We’ve experienced what I’d consider the most difficult part of each of our lives together, and we’ve weathered it all. I’m never very worried or scared nowadays when adversity comes our way knowing what we’ve gone through together.

“I’m excited for our kids to grow up having two moms who were BOTH USNA grads, BOTH USMC officers and BOTH highly educated. We’ve had an incredible story so far and only have more to accomplish.”

Lauren was the first woman to serve as series commander and company commander for a male training battalion in the history of the United States Marine Corps at MCRD Parris Island.

“I can’t accurately describe how impactful that is in words,” Gaby said. “And now, everything is being integrated shortly after her tenure there. Her successful performance has something to do with that. We both served with infantry units on deployments.

“I have some disappointing sea stories that I could share with you, but I won’t. That’s why I’m out of the service now and breaking glass ceilings as an entrepreneur. But all of that to say, I greatly respect and admire my wife for her undying devotion and efforts to make the Marine Corps a better place for women and Marines in general.”

CAPT Lauren Riffle-Gonzalez ’15, USMC, and Gaby Riffle-Gonzalez ’17 started dating in summer of 2016. Lauren was the first woman Series Commander and Company Commander for a male training battalion in the history of the U.S. Marine Corps at Parris Island. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RIFFLE-GONZELEZS

HAI (CAO) EASTMAN ’91 AND BRIGADIER GENERAL MIKE EASTMAN ’91, USMA, USA (RET.)

We felt that our common academy experience helped shape our appreciation of each other. It still isn’t easy with Mike’s all-male command questioning why he has to share daycare pickup duties, something most guys thought were “mom duties,” or my female commander demanding equal opportunity for Mike to share “chickenpox” leave because dads need to care for kids as well, even if he was in the middle of field time.

Mike and I met during a Naval Academy Foreign Affairs Conference in 1990; Mike participated as a cadet in the field of political science, I majored in electrical engineering and volunteered to do lighting and sound checks. We dated since the second semester of our second class year. Classmates were very surprised at our pairing because he was a Woop.

Perhaps the shared military knowledge helped us understand the job commitment, and the long shifts that we had to serve. It was obvious after five years as we watched respective schoolmates’ marriages dissolve, or other classmates struggle with finding their “missing piece.” We felt that our common academy experience helped shape our appreciation of each other.

Mike was an artillery officer; he retired in October 2021 as a brigadier general. I was a general unrestricted line officer, specializing in scientific and technical intelligence (really submarine intel). I served for eight years that I bought back, and now I’m a senior financial management analyst at the U.S. Secret Service.

We were married a week after Mike’s graduation, nine days after my graduation, on 8 June 1991. Neither academy thought our union was ideal and the Catholic priests there recommended we wait, as we have orders for schools and wouldn’t be together for almost a year after our wedding, so we opted to get married at my parish in Annandale, VA. We have been a “house divided” for 32-plus years.

Mike witnessed unfair treatment to me during my active duty time, and supported me by volunteering to take on women when they were introduced to his branch. Mike’s units were often rated as the top units for women integration. Having an alumni spouse also helped me understand what my classmates have to deal with during wartime deployments.

From Mike, “As a male officer, I never dealt with the sorts of harassment that Hai did as a junior officer. I felt like she had to prove herself in every command and exceed the expectations of her male counterparts in ways that I never did. This was not an issue at either academy, but became very apparent as soon as we entered the force.”

We have three children, Christine, Katherine and John. We also have two grandchildren, Alexander and Kacey.

KATHY (BRUZAS) HAUER ’83 AND COMMANDER KIM HAUER ’81, USNR (RET.)

Kim and Kathy were each part of 5th Company at the Academy. They started dating in the fall of Kathy’s youngster year and Kim’s firstie year. Kim commissioned into the submarine force while Kathy graduated from the College of William & Mary after departing the Academy at the end of her youngster year.

They married at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Williamsburg, VA, in September of 1983 after Kathy had graduated from William & Mary and before Kim headed out for his first submarine patrol. They said their experiences at the Naval Academy were quite different “but going to the Academy definitely made us stronger to deal with life in general. We didn’t really talk specifically about the Naval Academy experience much. Kim had a fabulous experience; Kathy’s was less so.”

Although their experiences at the Academy differed, they shared a love for Navy that provided a solid foundation for their military family life.

“We’re Navy all the way! Kim loved being in submarines and Kathy loved being a Navy wife.” Knowing what being in the military meant from spending two years at USNA made it easier for Kathy to be a supportive Navy spouse. Plus, Kim is very funny, so Kathy was able to really get, and laugh hard at all the jokes and allusions.

Kathy found it amusing how many people asked her for decades after she left the service if she had “just gone to the Academy to find a husband.”

Kim and Kathy have a son and a daughter who are each in their 30s. a

Kathy (Bruzas) Hauer ’83 and CDR Kim Hauer ’83, USNR (Ret.), started dating in the fall of Kathy’s youngster year and Kim’s firstie year. They were members of 5th Company.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HAUERS

Hai (Cao) Eastman ’91 and BG Mike Eastman ’91, USMA, USA (Ret.), met during a Naval Academy Foreign Affairs Conference in 1990.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HAI (CAO) EASTMAN ’91

BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE

By Ed Linz ’65

As my Naval Academy Class of ’65 classmates and I approach the 59th anniversary of our graduation, I have found that one of life’s pleasures is the monthly class luncheon, which is held at a restaurant in Annapolis. Roughly 20-to-30 of us from the local region attend each month. The food is great, but the camaraderie is even better. I always try to sit near classmates whom I do not know well to learn of their experiences since our graduation. The stories I heard were eye-openers for me. Following our graduation in June 1965, I went into submarines and spent the following 20 years both chasing Soviet subs on attack boats and hiding from them while on SSBN’s. I am embarrassed to say that while I was on those submarines, the Vietnam War was essentially a total abstraction for me. I knew that our forces were there, that the American body count was increasing and that domestic opposition to U.S. participation was becoming a major political issue. But, I had Soviet submarines to chase while at sea and a new family to care for while in port.

Hearing first-hand accounts of the war from classmates during the monthly luncheons created a spark, which ignited my interest in gathering memories from a wide swath of classmates who had served

in Vietnam. I had recently written a book of stories provided to me in the late 1990s about the Great Depression, and realized that a similar format of Marine and naval officer memories from my classmates needed to be captured while most of us were still alive to tell the stories.

I began interviews both in-person and via computer trying to capture as many aspects of our involvement in the Vietnam War as possible. Although I started with several classmates from the Annapolis lunches, I quickly expanded to others all over the U.S. It was encouraging to learn that essentially everyone I queried was eager to share their memories, even though some had never spoken to their own families about most of their experiences. Many were able to locate old photographs showing their involvement in the war. Often I was told, “You absolutely have to talk to ________.”

Over the following 18 months, I gathered 62 stories from classmates who

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HONORABLE BOB ANDRETTA ’65

Then-LT Bob Andretta ’65, USN, (with friends) as advisor to South Vietnamese junk forces at CG -14 in July 1969.

Then-2ndLt Sim Pace ’65, USMC, at camp near Hill 55, I Corps in May 1966.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SIM PACE ’65

served as Marines, aviators, CEC, supply, brown-water navy sailors, swift boat drivers and surface officers on ships conducting operations offshore. Many experienced difficulties while recounting deaths and serious injuries of friends and fellow combatants.

Several of those interviewed stated that they were extremely fortunate to be alive. There were stories of clandestine nighttime operations in North Vietnam while wearing the notorious “black pajamas;” secret operations into Cambodia; harrowing experiences driving swift boats for the first time through rivers from the Gulf of Thailand to the South China Sea; deadly firefights with North Vietnamese regulars near the DMZ; watching a wingman get shot down; setting ambushes for the enemy and being ambushed in return; incredibly dangerous assignments as advisers to Vietnamese navy junk forces and Vietnamese Marines; missions supposedly “safe” which turned deadly; air missions over the north flying through walls of flak; watching those nearby lose legs and worse

Then-LT Sonny Harrison ’65, USN, (in shorts) with his crew on one of his boats in the Mekong Delta during the spring of 1970. He would retire as a commander.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CDR SONNY HARRISON ’65, USN (RET.)

from mines stolen by the Viet Cong from South Vietnamese forces; the ever-present danger of carrier ops; ferrying Army troops on “monitors” on rivers and canals in the Mekong Delta; and an officer on a LST watching “Grave Registration Units” tagging body parts landed aboard by helos.

Of course, some of the stories contained gallows humor, which inevitably developed during the continuous stress of combat. Others discussed interesting assignments such as legal proceedings; one classmate’s shore duty was to ensure that every seat on R&R flights was filled. I was able to also hear stories from a classmate’s widow who was a flight attendant on many of those trips.

Once I had the stories, several classmates (and their wives) were instrumental in helping to put the book together, both in terms of suggestions and editing. The final product, A Filthy Way to Die, Collected Memories of the Vietnam War, is more than 450 pages. Essentially every classmate who has read the book and commented to me has expressed how little they knew about what was going on in other areas in Vietnam outside their specialty and how grateful they are to be able to learn what friends and classmates they didn’t know were doing following graduation. For each classmate I also included where they grew up, how they found themselves at the Naval Academy, what activities they participated in at the Academy, their photo from the Lucky Bag and what they did after Vietnam.

I intentionally referred to this conflict as a war, although it was never officially declared so by the U.S. government. The title is graphic and refers not only to the more than 58,000 young Americans who lost their lives during the war, but the three million Vietnamese and countless Cambodian and Laotians who perished. The book is dedicated to our nine classmates who lost their lives in this war.

I am hoping that other Naval Academy classes will make an effort to gather memories from representative groups of their classmates, not only for those who were involved in Vietnam, but also in the other hostilities and activities which have taken place since then. For those classes who graduated near ours, I would stress a sense of urgency to capture these stories while they are still available. There is a wealth of history waiting to be collected. a

Ed Linz ’65 served 20 years in submarines and commanded KAMEHAMEHA. He is the author of five books.

Editor’s Note: The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation is committed to documenting and sharing the stories and experiences of alumni throughout our nation’s military conflicts. This year, we are commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a series of stories featuring living World War II Naval Academy alumni. We are in the process of gathering stories from veterans of the Korean and Vietnam wars. To share your story, please contact Shipmate Editor Jimmy DeButts at jimmy.debutts@usna.com.

Then-CAPT Fred Vogel ’65, USMC, on a secret mission into North Vietnam in early 1971. He retired as a colonel in the Marine Reserve.

Then-LT Mike Luecke ’65, USN, climbs aboard his A-6 on CONSTELLATION on Yankee Station in 1968. He would retire as a rear admiral.

PHOTO COURTESY OF COL FRED VOGEL ’65, USMCR (RET.)

PHOTO COURTESY OF RADM MIKE LUEKE ’65, USN (RET.)

FIVE MINUTES WITH…

DARRYL SMITH ’88

This feature spotlights the extraordinary things being done by alumni in the Navy and Marine Corps and their unique, impactful achievements in the private sector and in their communities. Please send suggestions to jimmy.debutts@usna.com

Darryl Smith ’88 overcame academic challenges at the Naval Academy thanks, in part, to inspiring counsel from a Vietnam War hero. He is a former brigade boxing champion who commissioned into the Marine Corps and he served in Desert Storm.

Smith, who has an MBA from the Wharton School, transitioned to the private sector where he has served as a strategy consultant, entrepreneur and private equity investor. He continues to live a life of service as chairman of the board of advisers for the Dallas Salvation Army. He is also a trustee for the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Athletic and Scholarship Programs. He is as an independent director of the USA Boxing board and trustee of the USA Boxing foundation board.

Shipmate: What inspired you to seek a Naval Academy education?

Smith: I wanted to go to a military college because I wanted to serve my country as a military officer. I was introduced to the military during the summer before eighth grade when I attended the Devil Pups program at Camp Pendleton. I thought the Marines were a true meritocracy, where you were judged by your intelligence, physical fitness and grit. I was also impressed with the leadership and professionalism demonstrated by the NCOs and officers that ran Devil Pups.

I further developed my interest in the military through Army JROTC. I decided that I wanted to serve as an officer in either the Army or Marine Corps and applied to USNA, USMA and the Citadel. I chose USNA because I could seek a Marine commission and it was known to have the best academic reputation.

Shipmate: You’ve said Colonel John Ripley ’62, USMC (Ret.), motivated you to persevere at the Academy when you faced tough times, how so?

Smith: Colonel Ripley offered me some words of encouragement that I remember to this day when faced with adversity. My grades suffered third class year when I won Brigade and Eastern College boxing titles and nearly won nationals. Preparation for my bouts required running each morning, training each afternoon in the boxing gym and making weigh-ins.

I carried a full load as a math major and found my classes to be very difficult. My academic performance was poor and I wondered if I belonged at the Naval Academy. Colonel Ripley, a Navy Cross recipient, one of the most decorated Marines during the Vietnam War and deeply admired and respected on the Yard, told me, “You belong here and you will be a fine Marine officer, but you need to determine your priorities and make some tough decisions to graduate.” I decided to quit boxing

and change my major to economics. I never struggled academically again. Whenever I face difficulties in my career, I never question whether or not I belong, but instead ask myself, “what are my priorities and what, if any, tough decisions do I have to make in order to succeed?”

Shipmate: How did your time at the Academy prepare you to serve as a Marine Corps officer in combat and in the private sector?

Smith: The Academy truly prepared me mentally, physically and morally to serve as a Marine officer. My academic preparation ensured that I could be successful in the schoolhouse and the field. The Academy prepared me physically, particularly through boxing, to face any physical challenge I encountered in the Corps. I never scored lower than a 300 PFT the entire time I was in the Marines.

The Academy’s moral preparation manifested in a couple of ways. First, I had a clear understanding of the Corps’ moral and ethical standards and always strived to meet or exceed them, as I had done at the Academy. I also developed a deep appreciation of perseverance during my time at the Academy through challenges in the boxing ring, and the classroom. Those lessons carried me through every aspect of Marine Corps training, deployments and service during Desert Storm.

Additionally, I have found that the grit, integrity and problem-solving skills developed at the Academy and honed through my service in the Marines, prepared me for a myriad of challenges in my business career, which included stints in management consulting to entrepreneurship and private equity investing.

Shipmate: How have you benefited from mentoring and how are you sharing your experiences to assist others?

Smith: I have received a great deal of wisdom from Academy alumni on both career and life goals. Shipmates have helped me apply to business school, create a business network, interview for jobs and buy and run companies. More recently, I have asked retired alumni to help me determine how I might like to spend my time during retirement and the best ways to position myself to be selected for corporate and/or nonprofit boards.

They have given me clear and invaluable guidance for determining what type of service I might enjoy the most. I have simply passed along wisdom gained from shipmates and my life lessons to other alumni. Some alumni seek information and contacts related to acquiring a company. Other shipmates want to make a career move. I have been able to share an example from my experience or one of my mentors to help them move forward. ®

It’s been 51 years since the return of the American prisoner of wars (POW) from captivity during the Vietnam War. While their timely return after the end of the war is attributed to the tenacious political campaign waged by the wives of the prisoners led by Sybil Stockdale, two midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy led another letter-writing campaign to support the families and children of the POWs.

The midshipmen’s story is included in H. Michael Gelfand’s 2006 book, Sea Change at Annapolis, but their efforts were largely unreported at the time.

ACTIVISM AT ANNAPOLIS

In fall 1970, in the rotunda of Bancroft Hall, the U.S. Naval Academy hung photographs of graduates who were killed in action (KIA) or were missing in action (MIA) in Vietnam. Each week additional names were added, and by fall 1972, the display included more than 130 service members.

After the son of a Vietnam POW dined with the Brigade, two midshipmen, Rick Rubel and Joe Glover of the Class of 1972, decided to pass a hat around the mess hall to raise money to buy the children of MIAs and POWs Academy sweatshirts for Christmas. The Brigade responded, contributing more than $5,000, and midshipmen who lived near these families delivered the gifts over the winter break.

Rubel also promoted a campaign at the Naval Academy that sold thousands of bracelets inscribed with the names of POWs by the nonprofit organization Voices in Vital America.

Still hoping to do more, Glover contacted Naval Academy alumnus and fellow Texan H. Ross Perot. While they weren’t in the same graduating class, the paths of Perot ’53 and William Lawrence ’51, now a POW in Vietnam, crossed for two years in Annapolis. Together, Perot and the two midshipmen proposed a letter-writing campaign to try to convince North Vietnam to improve conditions for POWs. Rubel became the Brigade chairman for the campaign, and Glover wrote a pamphlet encouraging midshipmen, West Point cadets and the American public to write letters to Ho Chi Minh.

Perot provided the Academy a replica of a bamboo cage like the one in which American POW Nick Rowe had been imprisoned. Army Colonel Rowe—one of only 34 American POWs to escape during the Vietnam War—was held in a bamboo cage for most of his 64 months of captivity. He would go on to create the U.S. Army’s SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) program for high-risk military personnel.

The replica was set up in Bancroft Hall and was in the background when Rubel, Glover and Brigade Commander Mike Hecomovich ’71 held a press conference to publicize the letter-writing campaign.

By Captain Tal Manvel ’72, USN (Ret.)

TWO MIDSHIPMEN DROVE AWARENESS OF VIETNAM POWS

The letters received at the Academy were placed in the bamboo cage, but they quickly overflowed and were stacked on the floor. By the end of November, there were more than 15,000 letters.

ARMY-NAVY GAME

The 1970 Army-Navy football game would be played on 28 November in Philadelphia, PA. Rubel, Glover and Perot contacted Secretary of the Navy John Warner, who authorized a half-time ceremony to present the letters to the wives of POWs. However, as The New York Times reported in “Camp Raiders Honored at the Half of Army-Navy Game,” the ceremony was upstaged by a presentation by Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird honoring the Army soldiers who had participated in the daring raid on the Son Tay POW camp that had been revealed the week before. The camp held no POWs.

But not to be forgotten, during the half-time show, which was televised on ABC, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Admiral Thomas Moorer ’33, USN (Ret.), introduced Hecomovich to explain the scene as a postal delivery truck drove up to a platform where Rubel and Glover were standing. The two midshipmen then presented the letters they had gathered to Joan Vinson, wife of Lieutenant Colonel Bobby Gene Vinson, then listed as MIA, and the national coordinator of the National League of Families of American Prisoners of War and Missing in Southeast Asia. Needless to say, the wives were grateful, and the letters were later airlifted to North Vietnam.

In his book, Gelfand recalls Rubel telling him, “We wanted to help to personalize the POW situation, and at the Army-Navy game, we made the point. The whole process caught fire because midshipmen felt this was something they could do, not to affect

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAPT FAL MANVEL ’72, USN (RET.)

A press conference was held at the Naval Academy in the fall of 1970 with then-Brigade Commander Mike Hecomovich ’71, then-MIDN Rick Rubel ’72 and then-MIDN Joe Glover ’72, to raise awareness of the plight of the families of MIAs/POWs during the Vietnam War.

the war, but to be part of the recognition [of POWs] … That is why midshipmen latched on [to our project].”

NO GREATER LOVE

At the close of 1971, Rubel and Glover were just a few months from graduation, but they wanted to find a way to continue a campaign for the children. In December, they invited quarterback Johnny Unitas and five other members of the Baltimore Colts; Vince Promuto of the Washington Redskins; and former White House aide Carmella LaSpada, who had organized America’s Athletes for POWs-MIAs, to the Naval Academy.

Rubel and Glover teamed with the sports stars to recruit some 500 midshipmen to be pen pals with children of servicemen missing or captured in Vietnam. LaSpada, who suggested the name “No Greater Love,” became the program coordinator and went on to recruit other legendary entertainers and athletes to the group, including Joe DiMaggio, Althea Gibson, Joe Louis, Jesse Owens, Arnold Palmer, Ted Williams, Joe Frazier, Brooks Robinson, Don Schollander, Bobby Orr and Jerry West.

Less than two years after Rubel and Glover graduated, the POWs were freed.

Captain Rick Rubel ’72, USN (Ret.), and Joe Glover ’72 never received any official recognition for their work. It is time for these two former midshipmen to be honored for their empathy, their creativity and their efforts to bring attention and comfort to the families of Vietnam POWs and MIAs. You could say they were on their way to becoming distinguished graduates of the U.S. Naval Academy even before they graduated—and that puts them in a class by themselves. a

This article originally appeared in the U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings. Copyright U.S. Naval Institute. Reprinted with permission. For more content like it, please visit usni.org.

Then-MIDN Rick Rubel ’72, Baltimore Colts Quarterback Johnny Unitas, Washington Redskin lineman Vince Promuto and White House aide Carmella LaSpada gathered at the Naval Academy in December 1971 to kickoff a letter-writing campaign called “No Greater Love.” The campaign was designed to provide support to the 2,050 children of American prisoners of war and those missing in action during the Vietnam War.

MORAN ’81 AIMS TO SUSTAIN A&SP IMPACT

Admiral Bill Moran ’81, USN (Ret.), was raised in the shadows of West Point where he attended basketball camps as a high schooler and was recruited to play for Army. Fortunately, then-Navy assistant basketball coach Howie Cronauer convinced him to visit the Naval Academy. Moran, who had rarely been south of the Jersey Shore, was enamored by Annapolis. He chose Navy over Army. He also was recruited by the Naval Academy golf team, ultimately serving as its captain.

Following commissioning, Moran began his career as a naval aviator and served for more than 38 years. The front-end of his career was spent in the cockpit on anti-submarine warfare (ASW) patrols above the Atlantic and Mediterranean as well as in numerous instructor pilot assignments.

After a tour in personnel management, he operated in the Pacific and Middle East theaters conducting ASW and supporting ground forces during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a flag officer, he served as director of air warfare and chief of naval personnel prior to becoming the 39th vice chief of naval operations in 2016.

Moran served as an Athletic and Scholarship Programs (A&SP) trustee before taking over as chairman in April 2023. He succeeded Rear Admiral Thomas C. Lynch ’64, USN (Ret.), who retired after a 20-year tenure.

Since 1944, A&SP has sponsored more than 4,000 candidates who need further academic preparation before they enter the Naval Academy. Moran is excited for the opportunity to make a difference for the institution that gave him so much.

He spoke with Shipmate about his vision for A&SP.

Shipmate: Why was leading A&SP attractive to you?

Moran: It all started with the trustees where I found 250 loyal, dedicated graduates who wanted to give back to athletics and leadership development. Their purpose and mission spoke to me. Together we truly feel like we contribute not only to the physical mission but the overarching mission, which is to develop leaders

of consequence. There’s no question in my mind when you witness the character, the resilience and the determination on the athletics fields and courts, imagine how these men and women are going to lead when they get to the fleet.

Today, carrier and expeditionary strike groups are standing watch around the globe making sure our adversaries know that they are facing a seasoned varsity team. Among those commanding ships and air wings are Naval Academy grads and many of them were athletes when they were here. The value of our physical mission continues to be evident everywhere you find Naval Academy grads leading teams.

Shipmate: How important are athletics in the development of midshipmen?

Moran: Sports are really important, not only as a release from the academic load but also in terms of leadership opportunities. You’re going to get a chance to compete at a Division I level or at the intramural level. Somebody’s going to be a captain or co-captain. Somebody’s going to lead in one respect or another.

People are drawn to those who have a natural affinity and ability to lead. In this service academy, there are 1,000 such people in your own class, so you really must learn humility in order to build winning teams. There’s no better place to learn how and when to blend in and when to step up with people who are at the same level as you, if not higher. The physical mission does so much for leader development as well as just mental health while you’re here.

Shipmate: What have you learned about A&SP since you took the reins in April 2023?

Moran: The beauty of what I’ve discovered in this role is just the amount of passion that exists within 250 trustees and 100 or so emeritus members. They all care deeply about this institution. They’re passionate about sports and we all see the value of the physical mission.

Underneath that is recognition that the Naval Academy is not funded to fully support our athletic programs, in fact it’s not even close. I think the number is somewhere around 4 percent of the budget comes from the federal government. The other 96 percent of what it takes to run the sports activities here at the Naval Academy comes from TV rights, sponsorships and from the giving nature of alumni. Our trustees really share the burden

of bringing that level up to where we have an institution and a program that is second to none.

Our athletic director talks about 36 varsity Division I sports programs, more than any other school in the nation. What that means is more opportunities for more young men and women to compete at the highest levels. And finally I’ve learned just how important our Foundation schools are to bringing candidates in who are the best and brightest, and helps ensure that they succeed while they’re here.

Shipmate: What are some of your short-term and long-term goals for A&SP?

Moran: Short-term goals are three-fold; one is to simply carry on what Tom Lynch put in place here. He left me with a legacy of service and an organization’s culture that seeks to constantly improve the quality of our Naval Academy. Second is to ensure that we continue to provide high quality education and experience

at our Foundation schools so that these young women and men graduate near the top year in and year out. And thirdly, to support committee chairs as best I can to make sure we’re delivering to the Supe and the athletic director what they need to keep the Margin of Excellence at Navy. When young men and women come to the Academy as high school sophomores and juniors, we want them to see great facilities, feel the camaraderie of the athletes and sense the quality of teammates and coaches.

That’s what makes a lot of them say ‘I’m going to go there.’ We’re going after high-quality athletes and scholars—men and women with a propensity to serve their country.

Long term is really to continue to grow contributions we make toward the athletic department, to continue to grow our trustee contributions and ensure we keep that Margin of Excellence—quality coaches, outstanding athletic facilities, schedules that meet their expectations and teammates who inspire each other. a

CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT

JACKSONVILLE HOSTS NEXT LEVEL WATCH PARTY

Caleb Cronic ’11 figured if folks were going to gather to watch the Army-Navy football game, they might as well catch it on the world’s largest video boards.

On 9 December 2023, the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association’s Jacksonville, FL, chapter hosted its fourth joint Army-Navy Watch Party at EverBank Stadium, home of the NFL’s Jaguars. The event is open to the public and has drawn between 300 and 1,000-plus fans. Organizers partner with the city of Jacksonville to raise approximately $30,000 each year for local veteran charities.

Cronic, former Jacksonville chapter president, said the partnership with the city was key to successfully navigating the logistical and approval process. The Jacksonville chapter’s success could be a model for other

chapters, particularly those in areas with professional sports teams who play in taxpayer-funded facilities.

EverBank Stadium—with its 60-foot by 362-foot video boards—seemed like a natural fit for an event that attracts more than just alumni from the two service academies.

“I thought it would be great for a watch party,” Cronic said. “It’s a community-wide event.”

Working with city officials, specifically Jacksonville’s director of military affairs and veterans department, watch-party organizers—including the West Point Society of North Florida—were able to get the venue at cost (about $10,000) instead of what might have been north of $50,000. The city markets the event and handles most logistics. While they can’t charge an entrance fee, organizers have been able to

PHOTO COURTESY OF CALEB CRONIC ’11

The Jacksonville, FL, chapter of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation has raised more than $100,000 for veterans charities by co-hosting an Army-Navy Watch Party at EverBank Stadium. By partnering with the city of Jacksonville and the West Point Society of North Florida, the chapter has made the watch party an annual event that is open to the public and raises awareness for the Naval Academy and nonprofits such as K9s for Warriors.

make sizable contributions to the Jacksonville Veterans Fund and K9s for Warriors through sponsorships and donations.

Jacksonville chapter President Captain Scott T. Neidhold ’77, USNR (Ret.), said the watch party rallies the community around a great game and supports great causes.

“We are fortunate to live in a community that places a high value on honoring active-duty service members, veterans and military families,” Neidhold said. “Our annual Army-Navy Game Watch Party has become the signature event for the Jacksonville chapter of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation. Supported by the city of Jacksonville, the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation and the West Point Society, this event provides alumni, fans and friends an opportunity to watch an American classic while raising awareness and funds for such charities as K9s for Warriors and the Wounded Warrior Project.”

After several successful events, Cronic said the game has become a self-perpetuating occurrence. The Jacksonville-based Wounded Warrior Project was a sponsor last year and brought about 250 wounded veterans to the game.

In addition to raising awareness for veterans charities, the event attracts members of the local community and provides an avenue to engage local retirees, recruiting offices, bases, NJROTC and alumni. Naval Academy and West Point alumni compete to see who can bring in the most sponsorship money.

In 2023, a local sports radio station promoted the event, through an in-kind sponsorship, and hosted a joint interview with alumni representatives from the Naval Academy and West Point. MyGym, a children’s fitness center, also provided an in-kind sponsorship for a kids zone to bring in families and emailed their client list about the event.

Sponsors received banners to be displayed around the stadium and a brief opening ceremony included the national anthem sung by a local NJROTC, a flyover by a local HSM group, words from the city and brief videos from the superintendents from each institution.

The city also receives a cut from concession sales, which goes toward fundraising for the event.

Cronic said he’s spoken with leaders of other alumni association chapters about hosting similar events in their areas. Strong relationships with local municipal leaders is critical, particularly, when it comes to the cost and logistical hurdles for approval of permits and facility use.

“Connect with the city,” Cronic said. “It’s a no-go until that is done. Make them see it as a fundraising opportunity for them.” a

Editor’s Note: Shipmate is eager to share the stories of alumni association chapters assisting their communities with impactful programs and events. Please contact Editor Jimmy DeButts at jimmy.debutts@usna.com to share examples of your chapter’s outreach and engagement efforts.

THE GREAT CLASS CHALLENGE IS BACK! From 6-10 May join your classmates in a competition to see which class is the greatest!

The Great Class Challenge leverages the power of individual classes for a big impact at the Academy. Last year over 6,000 of you came together to raise more than $2M!

Whether you take this opportunity to support your Class Project, make an annual Athletic Excellence contribution, pay your pledge, or make your first participation gift to the Naval Academy Fund—it all counts in the Challenge!

Rise to the top of the rankings and show that your class is the greatest by making your gift with the enclosed envelope starting today! All gifts received through 10 May will count! For an easy way to give, visit the Challenge website once it officially kicks off on 6 May at navalacademychallenge.com. We'll keep track of your class participation automatically!

Will the Class of 1984 break another record for most alumni to give during the Challenge (almost 500!)?

Will the Class of 1965 fight back to the top spot for participation? Make your gift then check back regularly to monitor which classes are rising to top!

Who will be the GOAT?

6-10 May

BRAVO ZULU

1990s

’99: Col Nicole Aunapu Mann, USMC, is one of six former NCAA student-athletes who were honored with the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award as part of the 2024 NCAA Convention in January in Phoenix, AZ.

2000s

’01: David J. Cote has joined the Discovery Museum’s board of directors. Cote is a program manager at Draper Laboratory, a John F. Kennedy School of Government graduate and retired U.S. Marine Corps officer.

2010s

'15: LT Joe Cardona, USN, a long snapper for the New England Patriots, received the 2023 Salute to Service Award in February. The award recognizes the exceptional efforts by members of the NFL family to honor and support the military community.

Flag Officer Promotions

The following alumni promotions were approved on 5 December 2023:

’86: RADM James E. Pitts, USN, to vice admiral and deputy chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Requirements and Capabilities N9 Office of the Chief of Naval Operations.

’87: MajGen Gregory L. Masiello, USMC, to lieutenant general and director of the Defense Contract Management Agency.

’89: VADM Charles B. Cooper II, USN, reappointment to vice admiral and to be deputy commander U.S. Central Command; RADM Yvette M. Davids, USN, to vice admiral and to be Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy; RADM Douglas G. Perry, USN, to vice admiral and commander Second Fleet and commander Joint Forces Command Norfolk.

’90: CAPT John E. Byington, USNR, to rear admiral (lower half); RADM Frederick W. Kacher, USN, to vice

Ward ’24 Named Rhodes Scholar Scholarship Recipient

Midshipman Abigail Ward ’24 was one of 32 Americans awarded a Rhodes Scholarship in November 2023. Ward, the Naval Academy’s 56th Rhodes Scholar, is a computer science major and a Chinese minor.

She is passionate about protecting communities from foreign influence campaigns through sound cyber policy, with a focus on analyzing Beijing-backed disinformation campaigns using Natural Language Processing. She is a recipient of the Stamps Scholarship that allowed her to work with The Asia Foundation Malaysia in the summer 2023 to study the impact of technology policy on small and micro entrepreneurs. She also spent spring 2023 in an intensive Mandarin program at National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan.

She currently serves as the Chinese Culture Club president, is a member of the Navy women’s rugby team and is a Midshipman Group Studies program leader.

The Rhodes Scholarship qualifies young people from around the world for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford in England for up to three years. The scholarships are for young leaders of outstanding intellect and character who are motivated to engage with global challenges and are committed to the service of others. ®

d’Halluin ’24 Named Marshall Scholar

Midshipman Charlotte d’Halluin ’24 has been awarded a Marshall Scholarship, which provides up to two years of postgraduate studies at a United Kingdom university.

d’Halluin is a mechanical engineering major, captain of the women’s rugby team, the operations officer for the Naval Academy Science and Engineering Conference and the commanding officer for the Formula SAE Capstone, which works to build the U.S. Navy racing team’s first electric vehicle from scratch.

In 2021, d’Halluin participated in a language program in Haifa, Israel. Upon graduation in May, she will commission as a submariner, duties she will assume after she completes her studies in the United Kingdom. She intends to pursue a master’s degree from the University of Edinburgh in energy, society and sustainability, and a Master by Research at the University College London in urban sustainability and resilience. She is interested in climate change broadly, and her proposed research is to investigate ways to reduce carbon emissions on DoD facilities across the globe.

Marshall Scholarships were founded to commemorate the humane ideals of the European Recovery Program (Marshall Plan). Goals of the program include enabling future leaders of America the opportunity to study in the United Kingdom, to contribute to the advancement of knowledge at Britain’s centers of academic excellence and to motivate scholars to act as ambassadors throughout their lives and to strengthen British-American understanding. ®

admiral and to be commander Seventh Fleet; RADM Brendan R. McLane, USN, to vice admiral and to be commander Naval Surface Forces/ commander Naval Surface Force.

’91: MajGen James H. Adams III, USMC, to lieutenant general and deputy commandant for Programs and Resources Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps; RADM (lower half) Heidi K. Berg, USN, to rear admiral; RADM (lower half) Richard T. Brophy Jr., USN, to rear admiral; RADM (lower half) Brian L. Davies, USN, to rear admiral; RADM

Robert M. Gaucher, USN, to vice admiral to be commander Naval Submarine Forces/commander Submarine Force U.S. Atlantic Fleet Allied Submarine Command; RADM (lower half) Marc S. Lederer, USN, to rear admiral;

RADM (lower half) Casey J. Moton, USN, to rear admiral.

’92: RADM (lower half) Richard E. Seif Jr., USN, to rear admiral; RADM (lower half) Derek A. Trinque, USN, to rear admiral; RADM (lower half) Dennis Velez, USN, to rear admiral.

’93: CAPT Frederic C. Goldhammer, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Jeffrey A. Jurgemeyer, USN, to rear admiral (lower half);

CAPT Todd S. Weeks, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); RADM (lower half) Jeromy B. Williams, USN, to rear admiral.

’94: CAPT Amy N. Bauernschmidt, USN, to rear admiral (lower half);

CAPT Ian L. Johnson, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Joshua Lasky, USN, to rear admiral

(lower half); CAPT Donald W. Marks, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Michael S. Mattis, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Julie M. Treanor, USN, to rear admiral (lower half).

’95: CAPT Thomas J. Dickinson, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Neil A. Koprowski, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Craig T. Mattingly, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Kurtis A. Mole, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Lincoln M. Reifsteck, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Frank A. Rhodes IV, USN, to rear admiral (lower half); CAPT Forrest O. Young, USN, to rear admiral (lower half).

’98: CAPT Marc F. Williams CEC, USN, to rear admiral (lower half).

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

CLASS NEWS

’38

Life Membership: 0%

Donor Participation: 0%

Sec’y: Donald E. Brown

Son of CAPT C. Donald Brown, USN (Ret.)

4105 Elizabeth Ln., Fairfax, VA 22032-1453 p: 703-978-4571; e: donaldbrown@earthlink.net

’39

Life Membership: 50%

Donor Participation: 0%

Vice Pres: CAPT Chip Seymour, USN (Ret.)

Son of Harry A. Seymour

309 Melvin Ave., Annapolis, MD 21401 c: 410-279-9195; e: seymour65@comcast.net

Sec’y: Barbara Fidel Adams

Also Sec’y for ’39 Navy Juniors

Daughter of Jack and June Fidel 215 Ikerd Dr., Concord, NC 28025 p: 704-784-3876; e: adamsjimr@aol.com

Thirty-Nine On Line: Barbara Fidel Adams e: adamsjimr@aol.com

Greetings 39ers! We begin by saluting three of our ’39 widows who have just celebrated birthdays earlier this year: Ingrid Beach (Edward L. “Ned” Beach) on 9 February; Madeline Hough (Jack Hough) on 27 February; and Mitzi Peterson (A. Atley “Pete” Peterson) on 1 March. In this column, we celebrate Ingrid Beach, and will continue our celebration with tributes to Madeline Hough and Mitzi Peterson in the next several ’39 columns. All three are grand Navy wives!

The book, The Navy Wife, (by Anne Briscoe Pye and Nancy Shea) begins with this….. ….. “There is a lure about the sea, a glamour about men who go down to the sea in ships; and the names of far off ports like Hong Kong, Rio, Guantanamo, and Manila take on an added charm when ‘Bill’s ship has been there’. From the days of the old sailing vessels’ return to New England harbors, until yesterday, when the sleek, streamlined cruisers and stolid battle-wagons proudly sailed into port, the scene was stirring. Today naval orders are secret and the ships slide in silently, and in an even more sinister manner epart…. destination unannounced and unknown except by those in key commands.”

The Class of 1939 graduated on 1 June, and by 1 September Germany had invaded Poland and the world was engaged in a global conflict, World War II. On 7 December 1941, Pearl Harbor was attacked and the United States was at war.

Margaret Taylor Yates wrote this FOREWARD for The Navy Wife on 15 December 1941…..

“But still when two or three shall meet, and old tales be retold...”

…..”Between the day when, immensely flattered, I promised to write a foreward to The Navy Wife, and today when, through the grace of God and the incredible bravery of our boys in blue and khaki, I am able to fulfill that promise, there has intervened a day, December 7, 1941, that we Service wives in Hawaii have written into our lives with a Capital D — D you understand, as in Double Duty. And we know, through radio broadcasts and the messages of love and encouragement coming to us, that you on the mainland, civilian and military, have written it, with a Capital D, into your lives as well — D, God bless you, as in Dedication.” …..this being written by Margaret Yates- just one week after the 7 December attack- “as the evacuators are threatening to take the very chair out from under her”!)…..

Ned Beach was a Submariner who had twelve WWII war patrols in TRIGGER, TIRANTA, and PIPER, participating in the Battle of Midway, and earning 10 decorations for gallantryincluding the Navy Cross. He later wrote a novel, Run Silent Run Deep, which described WWII submarine warfare in the Pacific, and dealt with themes of endurance, courage, loyalty and honor and how these could be tested during wartime.

Ned Beach from ’39 Lucky Bag

Ned met Ingrid Schenck, daughter of Stanford University Professor, Hubert G. Schenck, when she was just 16. They were married two years later, in 1944.

Ned beach was one of seven ’39 Classmates who made significant and enduring contributions to Naval Nuclear Power… In 1955, the first nuclear- powered submarine, NAUTILUS, went to sea. In 1960, Ned Beach was the Commanding Officer of the first two- reactor nuclear submarine, TRITON- the first submarine to circumnavigate the world submerged.

(again from The Navy Wife)…..”In time of peace, the most thrilling phrase in the English language to a Navy wife is- The Fleet’s in! Crowds line the waterfront to watch the officers and the bluejackets on deck and liberty parties preparing to go ashore. Excited young Navy wives are always in front at the officer’s landing, each one hoping to catch a glimpse of her Ensign or Lieutenant husband. The seasoned Navy wives are there too, but they remain in the background. It is an old story to them, but nevertheless they are there. The Fleet is in, their men are home, and life is filled with the excitement that only a Navy wife can understand.”…..

Imagine that homecoming, when TRITON return after a year away!

Ned and Ingrid Beach

Fast forward to today….Ingrid has just celebrated her 98th birthday- many, many happy returns, Ingrid!

Through the holidays, and into the New Year, Ingrid has had wonderful visits at her lovely home in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. with her family- including son, Ned Beach, Jr. (who traveled from Maine); son, Hugh (who traveled from Sweden); and daughter, Ingrid, or “Ingie” as she is known to the family (traveling from New Zealand).

Send

2024

Ned Beach and Ingrid had been married 58 years when he took his ‘final voyage’ and left this world in 2002. Ingrid experienced Fifty-Eight years as a proud Navy wife, and always gladly welcomed Ned home when he returned to port from the sea….. …..”When the ships are in port everyone is happy. There is something about a Navy Blue uniform, starched whites and gleaming gold buttons that appeals to all members of the feminine sex, young or old. Everybody loves a sailor.” (The Navy Wife).

Ingrid and Ned Beach

“What about ’39!” and What about Ingrid Beach! Respectfully submitted, Barbara Fidel Adams ’39 Class Secretary

’40

Life Membership: 0%

Donor Participation: 0%

Corr Sec’y: Dr. Virginia Trimble

Widow of Dr. Joseph Weber p: 949-824-6948; f: 949 824 2174; e: vtrimble@uci.edu

CLASS OF 1940:

To aid in the preparation and publication of a history of the Naval Academy Class of 1940, Professor Emeritus at the Naval Academy Craig Symonds would greatly appreciate any information that family members might be able to provide in the way of diaries, letters, or other personal papers from members of the class of 1940.

Interested individuals can contact him at: macsymonds@aol.com

Only ’40 is 4.0!

’41

Life Membership: 0%

Donor Participation: 0%

Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com

’42

Life Membership: 33%

Donor Participation: 0%

Pres: CAPT Dale C. Reed, USN (Ret.)

Vice Pres/Sec’y: Joan Curtis

Wife of the late CDR Richard E. Curtis, USN (Ret.) 14518 Faraday Dr., Rockville, MD 20853 p: 301-989-8885; e: joan@jfcurtis.com

Hello Class of ’42 Classmates, Family and Friends, HAPPY WINTER ON THIS BEAUTIFUL SNOWY DAY!!!!

CELEBRATION!

ANNE L. ALLEN, wife of the late Layton S. Allen, USNA ’42, celebrated her 100th birthday on October 16, 2023, with her “baby brother” Robert Landon (age 90) and her 3 children, 2 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, as well as 2 nieces and 2 additions through engagement with 2 of her great grandchildren. She walks 2000 steps after every meal and loves to spend sunny days in the courtyard garden, often walking the spiral Labyrinth while reciting the things she is grateful for. She also loves to listen to music on her Echo Dot, especially Tony Bennett singing “Anything Goes”.

Happy Note: I talked to Dale Reed’s daughter today, January 16, 2024, and Dale is doing well. Still painting every day, enjoys talking to his friends and reading. He just read a book called Carry on Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham published in September 1955 (which he had read years ago). The book is a children’s biography of Nathaniel Bowditch, a sailor and mathematician who published the mammoth and comprehensive reference work for seamen: The American Practical Navigator. It is an epic tale of adventure and learning.

Spring will be coming soon with all its beautiful spring flowers. Everyone, take care and May God bless the Class of ’42 and their families and friends.

All the best,

Joan Curtis

Vice President/Secretary ’42 GO NAVY!!!!! BEAT ARMY!!!!!

’43

Life Membership: 0%

Donor Participation: 0%

Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com

Ingrid with son Ned

Ingrid with son Hugh

Ingrid with “Ingie” (photo taken during an earlier 2023 visit)

’44

Life Membership: 45%

Donor Participation: 0%

Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com

My father Charles W. Burlin, Jr. - Class of 1944 recently had a birthday celebrating his 102nd birthday on the 12th of December. He is one of ten survivors from the Class of 1944. Submitted by his son David Burlin. (757) 635-6487

Charlesburlin268@comcast.net

’45

Life Membership: 60%

Donor Participation: 0%

Acting Pres: CAPT Edward L. “Ted” Cochrane Jr., USN (Ret.) 8814 Lynnhurst Dr., Fairfax, VA 22031 p: 703-280-4141

Corr Sec’y: Bonnie Boyd

Daughter of CAPT E. L. Cochrane Jr. ’45 4606 Marble Rock Ct., Chantilly, VA 20151 p: 571-342-2266; e: bonnieboyd2266@gmail.com

Website: www.usna.com/classes/1945

Our numbers may be dwindling; however, your classmates and widows still meet almost every Wednesday at noon EST to discuss the week’s activities and review happy memories. Pictured below are our faithful Zoom host, Mike Taylor (upper left, long-time friend of Bill Geiger), Ted Cochrane (upper right) and Rosemary Hsu-Brooks (widow of Don Brooks). Missing and sometimes attender is Jack Gillooly

Please consider joining us as the more the merrier. Contact your class secretary for information on how to connect to the group; we would love to see you.

As always…

Look Alive with ’45

’46

Life Membership: 39%

Donor Participation: 40%

Vice Pres: Larry Baldwin

13708 Leland Rd., Centreville, VA 20120 p: 703-631-9817; e: owl22@cox.net

Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com DEFENDI

ADOLESCENS, NON DESERAM SENEX

’47

Life Membership: 71%

Donor Participation: 80%

Pres: CAPT Jack M. Stevens, USN (Ret.) 200 Ankersa Way, Hunt, TX 78204-3400 p: 830-238-4355; e: captjack47@hctc.net

Corr Sec’y: Eileen Marousek

Daughter of Col. L. Marousek 310 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314 e: eileenUSNA47@gmail.com

Tres: Priscilla Myerson

Wife of Ed Myerson

Greetings USNA Class of ‘47. Spring 2024 is here!! TEN of you great MIDs still with us and

we are so glad. I hope you are getting the email updates I am sending! The new SUPE (Davids) has moved onto the Yard and things are back to “normal” at the Academy!

Missing my pal and your Class President, CAPT Jack Stevens. Hope he’s wearing his cowboy boots wherever he is! Cute picture of my friend Paul Miller – 5 Striper USNA ‘47 having fun with his DIL, Denise, grandkids and great grandkids over the Holidays. Paul is now 101 years young. See him here celebrating his recent Birthday with his extended FAM! Hugs Paul!

Fun photo of Danny Child channeling his best Santa over the Holidays. Danny passed away shortly after at the young age of 101. What a life well lived!!

Mrs. Clara Gower passed away. Clara Payne Gower of Clarksville, TN, formerly of Melbourne, FL, passed away suddenly

’45 Zoom session, 17 January 2024

’47: Celebrating 101!

on January 7, 2024, at the age of 96. She is the widow of Robert F. Gower, Class of ’47, and will join him in the Naval Academy Columbarium some time Spring 2024. They are survived by their daughters, Bobbi and Billi (wife of J.J. Parus, Class of ’73), and their families.

Wishing CAPT Stan Gary a speedy recovery after a fall he had earlier this month.

Hugs Stan! OX

I have the sad duty of notifying you of the passing of your Classmates and wives –Hugh Minor, Danny Child, Mirium Wells (John) & Clara Gower (Robert). May they all Rest in Peace.

That’s all for now Team ’47! Look to the next Shipmate for more updates. Keep sending me your notes to my mailbox. I love hearing from you! Yours loyally for ’47. “FoBotS” (Fan of Best on the Severn) Eileen

’48

Life Membership: 38%

Donor Participation: 12.90%

Sec’y/Webmaster: John Tsiknas 16061 Avenida Venusto, Apt. E218; San Diego, CA 92128-4414 p: 858-829-7193; e: johntsiknas@att.net

Website: http://1948.usnaclasses.com

Hello classmates and wives. Your scribe owes you an apology for not submitting the following two stories from Paul Riley that should have appeared in earlier columns. The only excuse is my advanced age that is rapidly approaching the century mark.

Here is the first article from Paul:

M “Dear John: Here we are in mid-August, and I know it’s too late to add anything to your September “Shipmate” class column about our plebe summer. But I do apologize to all for omitting the name of our USMC classmate, R. D. Reem, from the small list of future distinguished members. I have just discovered that he too was a recipient of the Medal of Honor. On a different subject, those of us who entered the Academy just out of high school at age 18 are now getting around to our 97th birthdays. As many know, I am interested in finding old songs to go along with any occasion. In 1908

on the railway route from Washington to Atlanta, a fast mail/express train derailed in Danville, VA, with fatalities. Sometime about a hundred years ago, out came “The Wreck of Old 97”, more recently revived by Johnny Cash. I believe I personify the song, but all you 98’s and 99’s are welcome to join me if you agree. Bye for now, Paul Riley”.

And here is the second article:

M “This 2023 Riley Christmas letter is in its 35th edition, provided you count last year’s version padded with an unrelated story published by my alumni magazine. (I wrote two more, one published, the other to be early next year.) Our most significant event to relate this year was the birth of Nora Riley Greco, our 4th great-grandchild. Tony and Claire are the parents; Miles and Adrienne grandparents, all first time.

Evelyn was hospitalized for a week in late January with multiple infections. She then spent a month in a skilled nursing facility. While there, she received visits from friends and especially one from her sister, Joan Witschey, and husband, Walter, from Virginia. Evelyn wishes to thank the many senders of get-well cards. Once home, she went under daily care by our RN daughter, Mary Pettigrew, aided on week-ends and other absences by a caregiving service. She has resumed piano and swimming in season.

Our older grandson, Courtland Pettigrew, graduated Summa Cum Laude from South Texas School of Law. After passing the bar exam, he was sworn in as an Attorney by his uncle, Judge Jack Riley. Our younger grandson, 2nd/LT Jackson (Army), was visited in far northern Alaska in May by Jack, Elizabeth, and sister, Rebecca, a senior at the University of Texas. Shortly after, Jackson experienced a total body collapse while completing the last few yards of a severe endurance exercise. He was airlifted to a hospital to recover. Jackson has since been promoted to 1st/LT and will be home on leave in January.

Mary hosted a tea party for Evelyn’s 85th birthday and a swim party for my 97th. For mine, I chose a ballad, “The Wreck of Old 97”, written a hundred years ago about a fatal mail train accident in Evelyn’s hometown of Danville, VA. The title describes what 97 years have inflicted on me, although much is offset by a loving wife and family. Will came home from Boston, (but Heather had to stay with her piano students). Will played the song professionally on guitar with an added verse for me. I still have all teeth, one fairly good ear, both eyes, and about half my hair on top. (I’ve added a short beard to compensate.) I can walk (or shuffle), but usually use a cane for balance. I have fallen ten times in the last five years (with only gashes and bruises), including twice this year. I still climb the stairs, drive the car (to church), and shoot my revolvers accurately. Evelyn and I celebrated 62 happy years together since June 1961.

Veteran Naval Officer, fellow USNA alumnus, and NSK applications engineer Miles, Adrienne and family, including Claire, Tony, Anne, Kevin, Lydia, Madeline, and Nora, came to see us in July. Anne and Kevin drove from Knoxville, TN. The others flew in from Indiana. Thus, we saw our new great-granddaughter for the first time. Miles has bought a 14-foot sailboat to revive his nautical skills on lakes.

Start of the school year reminds us of the contributions to society of teachers Kevin Pettigrew and Josh Wheeler who also coach high school football. Kevin and Mary have a new Harley and enjoy riding their 3-wheel motorcycle. (Never say tricycle to describe it.)

Christy, mother of our first three great-grandchildren, smartly took a job at Josh’s school as a secretary so the pair can commute together.

My sister, Katherine (Kitty) Comstock, and daughter, Kristen, drove all the way from Belmont, NC, to spend a week with Mary and with us. Kristen combined the trip with a bamboo convention and board meeting in New Iberia, LA. Kitty at age 94 is still mostly living independently at home.

Surely we all know that Christmas is not really about Santa Claus or the winter solstice. Instead, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior. With that said, and on behalf of Evelyn and myself, Merry Christmas! If people wake up and vote intelligently, this time next year we will be saying “Praise the Lord” for a Happy New Year. Good-bye and love from Paul and Evelyn”.

Thanks, Paul, for another one of your very informative Christmas newsletters.

Since he last issue of Shipmate we learned the loss of the following:

Classmate:

Pohl, R.B., 12th Co. 12/23/2023

Wives:

Grace Harkins 5/09/2022

Kay Portner 12/17/2023

’49

Life Membership: 57%

Donor Participation: 22.64%

Pres: CAPT Richard A. “Rick’ Claytor, USN (Ret.) 701 King Farm Blvd.,#203, Rockville, MD 20850 e: retxnavy@aol.com

Exec Vice Pres and Treas: CAPT Richard A. “Al” Frost, USN (Ret.) 6516 Bellamine Ct., McLean, VA 22101-1481

Paul Laric, Honorary Secretary of the Class of 1949

Sec’y: Ursula Vosseler

2214 Chesapeake Harbour Dr., Annapolis, MD 21403 e: navygolfergirl@gmail.com

Webmaster: CAPT Richard A. “Rick” Claytor, USN (Ret.)

Website: www.usna-class49.org

Letter from the President

Honoring a Class Hero

The brother of Alan Grace, Class of 1983, who volunteers at historic Green Mount Cemetery in Baltimore, recently noticed that there was a

burial/memorial site for our classmate, LTJG Richard H. (Dick) Seth, but there was no marker. Richard Seth’s parents, Stephen and Anna Seth, are buried in this cemetery.

As classmates may recall, LTJG Seth, a distinguished combat pilot, died when the F2H Banshee fighter he was piloting crashed off the southern coast of Greece on 25 February 1954, and his body was never recovered.

Our class was informed of the absence of any marker for LTJG Seth and decided to fund a memorial plaque in his honor in the cemetery where his parents are buried.

In his brief Navy career LTJG Seth was decorated for his outstanding record as a Navy jet flyer during the Korean conflict. While assigned to the carrier USS KEARSARGE, he completed 66 missions and was awarded the Air Medal with Gold Star. Dick was subsequently transferred to Fighter Squadron 141 aboard USS RANDOLPH, an Atlantic Fleet ship operating both in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

Before the Korean conflict brought him honor as a combat pilot, Dick had been recognized among athletes and lacrosse fans as one of the ablest goalies ever developed at the Naval Academy. He made second team All-American in 1948 and moved up to first string All-American the following year. Coaches and teammates called him one of the fastest and shiftiest of defense men and a remarkably shrewd diagnostician of plays. Competitors joined colleagues in giving him the title of “Hummingbird” as he built up a record of speed, skill, judgment, and heart.

This is Dick Seth’s photograph from the Class of 1949’s Lucky Bag:

Here is the planned Inscription on the memorial plaque to honor Richard Seth:

LTJG Richard Henry Seth

9 Sep 1926 – 25 Feb 1954

Aviator – US Navy Fighter Squadron 141

USS RANDOLPH Lost at Sea

Korean War

Air Medal with Gold Star USNA Class of 1949

Lacrosse All-American 1949

Son of Stephen & Anna Seth

’50

Life Membership: 67%

Donor Participation: 15.52%

Pres: CAPT Byron A. Lee, USN (Ret.) p: 410-266-7248; e: byleeby@verizon.net

Vice Pres: CAPT Ed Grunwald, USN (Ret.)

Treas: Col William K. Rockey, USMC (Ret.) p: 703-842-3153; e: wkrockey@cox.net

Statistical Manager: Maj Gen Daryle E. Tripp, USAF (Ret.) p: 703-360-6988; e: darylet@aol.com

Corr Sec’y: Mrs. Gail Mcnally e: ggmcnally@gmail.com

Widow of CAPT John J. McNally, USN (Ret.)

Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com

’51

Life Membership: 62%

Donor Participation: 25.71%

Pres and Treas: CAPT Thomas A. Boyce, SC, USN (Ret.) 9014 Belvoir Woods Pkwy., Ft Belvoir, VA 22060 p: 703-780-7525; e: moomapa51@gmail.com

Vice Pres and Museum Rep: Temp Vacant

Sec’y: Lt Col Wallace G. Christner, USAF (Ret.) 8804 Gibbs Pl., Alexandria, VA 22309 p: 703-780-8632; e: wallace.christner@aol.com

Director of Class Gifts and Funds Legacy: Mr. David Ghysels PO Box 68, Oxford, MD 21654 p: 410-822-8623; e: davidghy@aol.com

Communications: VADM Robert F. Dunn, USN (Ret.) 819 Marshall Ln., Alexandria, VA 22302 p: 703-370-9589; e: robtdunn@aol.com

Other Board Members: Captains Robert E. Adler and Herbert A. Zoehrer

As we move through the Dark Ages news is sparse. The sum and substance is that Bryan Compton is doing well down in Demopolis, Alabama; Bob Carius has checked in from Cave City, Arkansas; and Barbara Crawford keeps us posted on doings in the Pacific Northwest and our San Diego group, although slowly depleting, continues to meet at the San Diego Yacht Club. For details the best source in the biweekly Class Newsletter. It goes out by email but if you’re not getting it give Bob Dunn a shout; address above.

By the time you read this we will have helped celebrate the lives and dedication to the class and to the Naval Academy of Ruth and Bob Small That event took place in the Chapel

on Friday, 2 February. A full report will be in the 10 February Newsletter.

Turning to less joyful news, as of this writing the class is down to seventy-nine of us still around. By the time you read this we may well be less, but even though may be at varying levels of energy and physical condition, we can still all cheer together, “Beat Army!”

Final note: if you check some of the other class columns you will find sea, air and Marine stories. If you have one you’d like to share, don’t be shy. Send it to Bob Dunn for publication in either the Newsletter or Shipmate or both.

’52

Life Membership: 65%

Donor Participation: 19.42%

Pres: Jack Young

9440 Newbridge Dr., #318, Potomac, MD, 20854 p: 240-477-2512; e: jcy52@verizon.net

Vice Pres: CDR G. Phillip Case Jr., USN (Ret.)

7452 Spring Village Dr., Apt. 107 Springfield, VA 22150-4947 p: 703-451-3937; e: casep29@gmail.com

Sec’y: Kip Young, daughter of Jack Young 1318 Kinloch Circle, Arnold, MD 21012 p: 240-205-2162; e: toughshoes52shipmate@gmail.com

Treas: Col George W. Lester Jr., USAF (Ret.)

5400 30th St., N., Arlington, VA 22207-1502 p: 703-241-1989; e: geova@verizon.net

Website: www.toughshoes52.org

Phil Case – Senior Olympian

Phil Case

It is about time the Class recognized our Vice President Phil Case for his extensive participation in the SENIOR OLYMPIC GAMES. Phil started with the Northern Virginia Senior Olympic games in 1994, along with

Classmate Dick and Lois Smith. His first competition was in tennis, where he teamed with Classmates Vince Argiro one year and Bill Fisher in another, winning in both years.

The National games are held every other year in cities nationwide, and qualification is required in state games. Phil received TWO GOLD MEDALS at the National Games in Albuquerque, NM in 2019. Finally, in September of 2023, Phil participated in the Northern Virginia Senior Olympic Games and won FOUR GOLD MEDALS in swimming. This achievement fulfilled a goal of 250 ribbons and medals in National, State (VA) and local games.

We all talk about doing things, and Phil absolutely gets it done. He is our benchmark for staying competitive and successful. And we have included pictures to prove it.

CONGRATULATIONS SENIOR OLYMPIAN PHIL CASE!!!!!!!!

- Jack Young

Larry Chambers Honored at Patriots Gala Larry was an honored guest at the recent Patriots Gala, sponsored by the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda, Florida. Larry and his lovely wife Sarah Chambers are pictured here with Midshipman 4/c Brian O’Leary ‘27

Admiral and Mrs. Chambers with MIDN O’Leary ’27

We continue to receive word of the passing of Classmates, wives, and widows. Received recently:

Major Robert E. Buck, December 16, 2023

Darlene Manning, widow of Martin F. Manning Jr., May 24, 2023

Still Tough Shoes to Fill!

’53

Life Membership: 65%

Donor Participation: 24.16%

Pres: CAPT Chris Zirps, USN (Ret.)

1902 Toll Bridge Ct., Alexandria, VA 22308-2447 p: 703-780-6124; e: CZirps53@aol.com

Exec Vice Pres: CAPT Alvin S. Glazier, USN (Ret.) 7619 Leith Pl., Alexandria, VA 22307 p: 703-768-2762; e: glophin@aol.com

Cor Sec’y: Mike Gilmore

5324 Lucas Farm Ln., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 p: 984-364-0629 e: mdgilmorevt79@gmail.com

Webmaster: CAPT Paul Dudley, USN (Ret.) e: pdudley@1953.usna.com

Website: www.usna53.com

Norma Raffaele, widow of Robert Raffaele, sends the following:

M Bob Raffaele would be thrilled to share with his classmates that two of his granddaughters are following in his footsteps. Twenty-twoyear-old, Julianne McHenry spent July 2023 as a researcher on the US Navy’s RV ATLANTIS (AGOR-25) in the Santa Barbara basin. A recent Marine Science graduate from University of South Carolina, Julianne had the opportunity to go to the ocean floor for seven hours in ALVIn (DSV 2), the Navy owned submersible. Norma reminded Julianne that one of her grandfather’s classmates, the late, Brad Mooney was the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the deep submersible TRIESTE II, piloting several of the forensic dives during the second phase of the search and documentation of the THRESHER debris field in September 1964.

Bob’s other granddaughter, 25-year-old, Ensign Jessica McHenry is a recipient of a Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) grant and just completed her second year of medical school at Emory University. The HPSP military scholarship covers Jessica’s medical school expenses and in return, Jessica will graduate as a lieutenant and will serve a minimum of four years as a Navy physician. See photos below.

Since my last writing, I have been notified of the passing of Thomas Schaaf (4 Nov 2023), Robert Donnelly (24 Nov 2023), and Frank Wolcott (23 Aug 2023). Frank served as an artillery battalion commander in Viet Nam including the 1968 TET Offensive and the battle of Hue where he earned a bronze star with Combat “V”. Frank retired from the Marine Corps in 1973. I was also notified of the passing of Thomas Logan Malone (25 Nov 2023), John Dunaway, and Shirley Gross, widow of Harold Gross

Plans are being made for another gathering of the “53 Legacy Group” this Summer. The Legacy Group will be notified by email when a date has been selected and again when the time and venue are known.

’54

Life Membership: 56%

Donor Participation: 24.05%

Pres: Maj Gen William W. Hoover, USAF (Ret.) p: 757-221-0921; e: Hoovsf8@aol.com

Sec’y: Mr. Phillip N. Livingstone 718 Appomattox Rd. W., Davidsonville, MD 21035-1909 p: 443-607-8666; e: livingstonep1@verizon.net

Deputy Sec’y: LtCol Edward C. Tipshus, USMC (Ret.) 8315 Fairway Dr., Worthington Hills Columbus, OH 43235-1148 p: 614-571-5565; e: ed@tipshus.com

Treas: CAPT Robert R. Briner, USN (Ret.) p: 757-464-4850; e: bobbriner@cox.net

Webmaster: CDR Will H. Croom, USN (Ret.) e: willyaye@gmail.com

Website: www.54net.org

’55

Life Membership: 63%

Donor Participation: 20.88%

Pres: RADM R. R. Fountain Jr., USN (Ret.)

Treas: CDR Robert P. Pirie Jr., USN (Ret.)

Sec’y: CAPT Thomas F. Stallman, USN (Ret.) e: staltom@aol.com

Corr Sec’y: Frederick Schoenberger e: fredseod@gmail.com

Website: http://1955.usnaclasses.com/

Victor Alan Brown (22) died 3 January 2024 in his home in Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Julianne after her dive in the Alvin (July ’23)

Jessica at her swearing in (June ’22) with her grandmother Norma

55/56 CLASS NEWS

The Washington Area group of Alumni held their 2023 Christmas luncheon at the Portofino Restaurant in Arlington, VA on Wednesday 13 December as so many times past, a more dressy occasion than customary in honor of the season. Turnout was great, the best in many months, 20 in all. Present were Angelo Cicolani, George and Diana Delano, Bob Fountain, Monroe and Delores Hatch, Bob and Nancy Hinton, Jerry and Anne Holland, Joyce Hughes (Mac), Demo and Angela Kolaras, Lucy Mustin (Hank), Susan Parker (Buddy) and her son Elton, Tom Stallman and his wife Marge, and Genie Walter (Joe ) and her daughter Margaret. Conversation was lively, the service slow, the food (off the menu) excellent and the company wonderful! A good start on a merry Christmas! Bob Fountain

See the photo nearby from the luncheon on 13 December 2023 at Portofino Restaurant.

This pic below was taken 6 Dec 2023 at the reception following MGEN Phil Monahan’s funeral at Arlington.

L to R: Bob Fountain, Gerry Nay and Tom Stallman.

’56

Life Membership: 73 %

Donor Participation: 33.15%

Class Co-Chairman: Col George Mushalko, USAF (Ret.) (15) p: 703-768-4543; e: gmushalko56@gmail.com

Class Co-Chairman: CAPT Jim Van Metre, USN (Ret.) (4) p: 410-224-3860; e: jimvanm@aol.com

Shipmate: CAPT Pete Fitzwilliam, USN (Ret.) (13) p: 703-501-6776; e: petefitzwm@aol.com

Sec’y: CAPT Doug Hayman, USN (Ret.) (11) p: 410-268-0740; e: dfhayman@comcast.net

Webmaster: Alex Morris (2) p: 941-378-5598; e: alex.morris@1956.usna.com

Website: www.usna56.org

“Deo Fidelis et Patria”

Happy spring, everybody! Well, almost.

Recently we received a very nice column input from Chip Honsinger (4) quoted here:  M “Chip Honsinger’s first ship after graduation was the destroyer USS LAFFEY (DD-724), long moored in the patriot’s Point Naval and Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, SC, across the harbor from Charleston. Jim Flatley (5) was the Executive Director of the museum back in 1994-2006. Both are pictured aboard USS LAFFEY recently with Chip’s son Mike, the

current president of the USS Association. Years ago, veterans of the ship formed the Association for purposes of fellowship and preservation of the ship. Today the Association has 360 members, half of whom are veterans of the ship and half are family members and friends of the ship. Every year the Association holds a reunion and three week-long work parties at which members gather onboard and work to help maintain the ship and improve its museum experience for visitors. Chip and wife Mary were there again in October.

LAFFEY was a very heroic ship in WWII, earning a Presidential Unit Citation at the battle of Okinawa on April 16, 1945, as the result of fighting off and surviving an attack by 22 Japanese kamikaze aircraft. She was crashed by six of them and lost 32 men killed and 71 wounded. Now she is a National Historic Landmark. She is also one of only two surviving USN warships that fought at Normandy on D-Day, the other being battleship TEXAS in Galveston.”

Flatley with Chip and Mike aboard LAFFEY

And, more recently, we received a communique from Captain Sarah Rice, USN (’02) describing her part in Ross Hatch’s recent burial at Arlington Cemetery. She wrote: M “Dear Shipmates, Today (12 Dec 2023) I had the honor of participating in Captain (retired) Ross R. Hatch’s interment at Arlington National

Cemetery, under crisp December air and clear blue skies, as the Escort Officer. This was the first ceremony I have been part of, and it was especially meaningful to me that Captain Hatch was also a USNA grad, Surface Warfare Officer, and engineer. I had the privilege to present his wife with the flag on behalf of a grateful nation and extend my condolences to his children and grandchildren who were present.

The Arlington lady was Mrs. Suzanne Kristensen, wife of RADM Edward Kristensen ’65 and Gold Star Mother of LCDR Erik Kristensen, ’95.

Below is a link to Ross’s obituary.

https://www.ashevillemortuaryservices.co m/obituary/Ross-Hatch

I hope this finds you and your classmates well; it’s an honor to be another link in the chain.

Very Respectfully,

Sarah Rice ’02 CAPT USN”

Please accept a sincere thank you for your service at the cemetery, Captain Rice.

On the first of December Buck and Cristina Buchanan, back for a visit from Lisbon, Portugal, hosted some of the “Ginger Cove continuing care of Annapolis crowd” at Mike’s Crab place. Over the years Buck has made a habit of hosting a meal for his old pals each time he returns to CONUS. See photo for this year on the following page: In the picture, from right to left it’s: Judi Hayman, Sandy Fitzwilliam, Nancy and Jim Van Metre, Pete Fitzwilliam, Cristina and Buck Buchanan, and Doug Hayman.

We’re always happy to see you, Buck!  We also received a concise note from Ms. Cindy Segler, daughter of John Donohue (12); She requested an announcement of John’s upcoming interment in Arlington Cemetery. Her words were:

’55: Attendees listed from center top and proceeding clockwise: Bob Fountain, Lucy Mustin, Delores Hatch, Monroe Hatch, Bob Hinton, Angelo Cicolani, Nancy Hinton, Diana DeLano, George DeLano, Demo Kolaras, Angela Kolaras, Joyce Hughes (partial), Anne Holland, Jerry Holland, Margaret Walter, Genie Walter, Tom Stallman, Marge Stallman, Elton Parker and Susan Parker

M “Capt. John F. Donahue ’56 (12) died on September 13, 2022, at Mayo Hospital in Jacksonville, FL. He will be interred with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on April 30, 2024, at 11:00 am.”

The following announcements are made about recent passing of Classmates and Classmate wives. Full obituaries for classmates will be presented in the “Last Call” section of this or a future issue of Shipmate.

James P. (jay) Ransom II passed away passed away 19 Jan 2024. He was 89.

Quote from Jim VanMetre: “We have lost a great one!!”

Harold Albee (Skip) Cleveland (5) passed away 10 Nov 2023. He was 89.

Herbert F. Hoffman, Jr. (6) passed away 8 Jan 2024. He was 89.

Harold Rex Honeyfield (4) (non-grad) passed away 24 Nov 2023. He was 92.

John C. Grant (23) passed away on 29 Dec 2022. He was 89. His obit is provided here, assembled by Doug Hayman, and it is based on the write-ups he provided in his letters to the Class for the 40th and 50th reunions.

John was born on 27 May 1933 in Detroit, MI, the son Edward Grant Class of 1924 and Florence Carleton. After briefly attending local Michigan colleges, John became a midshipman with the Class of 1956.

Upon graduation John’s first orders were to IOWA (BB-61), followed by a tour of duty as gunnery officer in STORMES (DD-780), then as an instructor at the Naval Academy. He resigned his regular commission on 1 July 1961. John became a member of the first class of 1956 executive committee when it took form in 1961, and the 1963 Register of Alumni shows his address to be in Annapolis. In his reunion book twenty years later, he stated that he had “founded or helped to start a half-dozen or so companies,” including two based in Annapolis. Sometime before 1970, when the Grant family had settled in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, John was Head of the Range User Division of the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Division, based in West Palm Beach.

Then John’s main interest became a private school, the Ocean Learning Institute. In 1996 John’s reunion book bio stated that his “main vocational effort [had] been to establish a maritime museum in the Palm Beaches,” and that it opened that year.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Olga Burke “Mickey” Grant, his sons Wayne, Burke, and John, and his grandchildren Nicholas, Cory, Chad and Phinn; and his brother, Edward.

The following obit was provided by Bud Alexander (1):

Marian Davis Block, wife of Major General Emil Block U. S. Air Force (Ret.) (1), of Springfield, VA (1) passed away on 1 January 2024. Marian was born 22 Feb 1932 to William and Jeanette Davis in Oldtown, MD. After graduating from Oldtown High School in 1950, she moved to Washington, D.C. and took a job as a secretary with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

In 1954 she met Navy Midshipman Emil Block and they married upon his graduation from the U. S. Naval Academy in June of 1956. She had two sons, Eric and Darin.

Marian was a supportive military spouse for 25 years, a lifelong animal lover, and an advocate for the humane treatment of all animals. In the mid-1980s, Marian started the Animal Aid Association where rescued and found loving homes for hundreds of dogs and cats. She was especially passionate in her advocacy for the often misunderstood and mischaracterized Chow Chow.

Marian was predeceased by parents, brother Billie, sisters Marie and Lee, and all the animals under her care. She is survived by her husband Emil N. Block, Jr. and her children Eric Block and Darin Block. Marian will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Written correspondence will be accepted at blime@cox.net. In lieu of flowers, donations in Marian’s name can be made to your local “No Kill” animal shelter.

Nancy Bennett, wife of Pete Bennett (13), passed away 13 December 2023 at Grove Louden Hospital. She and Pete were living 21144 Cardinal Pond Terrace, Apt 112, Ashburn, VA. Nancy was the consummate hostess; she and Pete hosted Army/Navy football game parties in their home in Vienna, VA for many years (through good times and bad).

Donna Lee Ethel Buckelew, wife of Jesse Buckelew (1), passed away peacefully from Alzheimer’s in La Quinta, CA with her family present on 28 Jul 2023. Donna was born on 25 May 1935 in Riverside, CA to George and Ethyl Dean. She graduated from Riverside Polytechnic High School in 1953. Following graduation Donna married Howard Myers in April 1954 and they had three children. They were divorced in 1982. Since 1970 she had been working outside the home as an administrative assistant for various employers (including a CPA firm, California State University at San Bernardino, TRW, and Hughes Aircraft.)

Donna married Jesse Buckelew on 29 Dec 1986 in Torrance, CA. They lived in Redondo until his retirement and moved to Palm Springs followed by Henderson, NV where they enjoyed an expansive view of the Spring Mountains range and the Las Vegas strip. Throughout her life she travelled extensively visiting friends and experiencing new places: Hawaii, Mexican resorts, Germany, and many US cities. She was an avid reader and she also enjoyed volunteering at hospitals and schools.

Donna is survived by her husband Jesse, and by her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

USNA.COM

Bringing the Alumni Association to you.

Marian Block

’56: Ginger Cove Class of ’56 crowd with Cristina and Buck Buchanan

’57

Life Membership: 71%

Donor Participation: 29.02%

Pres: VADM Daniel L. Cooper, USN (Ret.) e: dandbcoope@aol.com

Vice Pres: CAPT William H. Peerenboom, USN (Ret.) 1003 Rachel Ln. SW, Vienna, VA 221280 e: whp36@aol.com

Sec’y: CAPT Peter S. Boyne, USN (Ret.) e: theboynes57@cox.net

Corr Sec’y: CAPT Robert M. Wellborn Jr., USN (Ret.) 3141 Abruzzo Pl., Glen Allen, VA 23059 e: rwellborn3@gmail.com

Treas: Col John D. Regenhardt, USAF (Ret.)

Webmaster: CDR Charles R. Hall III, USN (Ret.)

Website: http//1957.usnaclasses.com/

First, a long list of those who have passed on and will be missed:

William Campbell (23), died on Friday 12 January 2024, with particular information to be provided at a later date. See the nice note from Gary (Bats) Pelphry (23) in next column.

Sandra Dianne Holland Howe, wife of Frederic N Howe (03), died on Monday, 8 January 2024 in Naples, FL. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Capt. Frederic Northey Howe, Jr., USN (Ret).

Excerpts from her obituary are provided below.

Joseph Ksycewski (13) died on Thursday, 11 January 2024 in Fayetteville, PA, after an extended illness. He was born 15 March 1935 in Newark, NJ.

Cecilia (Cecy) Nogara Mickey, wife of Daniel A. Mickey (10) (Deceased 24 October 2002), died on Thursday, 16 November 2023. A Funeral Mass was held at on 4 January 2024, at St Patrick-St Anthony Church at 285 Church Street, Hartford, CT. A few notes from her obituary are provided below.

LeRoy Boyd Letcher, Jr. (02 non-grad), died on Monday, 20 November 2023 in Gulfport, MS. He was born 6 January 1934, also in Gulfport.

Donald L. Miller (19), died on Thursday, 9 November 2023, with a family memorial service in December in Las Vegas, NV.

James Harry Murphy (01), died on Wednesday 15 November 2023 in Miami, FL. He was born on 10 April 1935 in Akron, OH.

John W. O’Grady (05) Died on Friday, 24 November 2023, in Hingham, MA. He was born in Whitinsville, MA.

Darline Hazen Layer-Roush, wife of Paul E. Roush, died on Sunday, 19 November 2023, in San Antonio, TX. (19). Her first husband, Robert W. Layer (19), passed away on 14 April 1994. After Bob Layer passed away, Darline became reacquainted with Bob’s USNA roommate, Paul Roush, who himself having earlier become a widower, and they were married in 1998. Notes from her obituary are included in the next column.

From Bats Pelphry on Bill Campbell: M Jane Campbell called me this morning and said, “Bill met his Maker last Friday, and is now at peace.”

I’ve known Bill and Jane, since their wedding. While the announcement was not unexpected, (Bill had been homebound for some time) I’ve had to think hard about Jane’s words.

And I’ve figured out that Jane’s words, which expressed the firm belief she shared with Bill, are the best way for each of us to receive this news. I have never known anyone, more completely dedicated to his faith, than Bill.

Bill grew up in Niagara Falls, the only person I’ve ever met with an annual subscription to Aviation Week - in the mid 1950’s. He loved aviation, and decided that, sooner or later, our country would need an astronaut. He reasoned that the military would choose an aviator they’d trained, and that the Navy had the best training program. That’s why he came to USNA.

Bill lived with Doc Crandall for four years. An odd couple, indeed! I’m certain Bill’s faith pulled him through those trials, even living with Doc’s hobby of assigning names - I didn’t know until last year that Bill hated the nickname he’d quietly accepted all these years.

The Aviation Physical 2/C year disrupted Bill’s career plans. Fortunately, his religious belief was strong enough for him to accept this.

And afterwards, his belief led him through a lifelong injury from an auto accident when he was driving down Highway 101 from his DD in SFRAN’s overhaul yard to visit his new bride in San Diego.

Let us all wish Jane and their extended family well and take a moment to recognize our classmate as a good and faithful servant.

Excerpts from the obituary of Sandra Dianne Holland Howe:

M Dianne was born 4 January 1935, in Georgetown, Washington, D.C., the only child of the late James Howard Holland and Mary Irene Peters Holland of Suffolk, VA. After graduating from Suffolk High School, Dianne attended Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, VA and then continued to the University of Virginia nursing school. Dianne was an adoring wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Family was always most important to her. She made it her priority that as the duty stations changed over the years, she would put forth thoughtful and loving effort into making her family’s new home just as beautiful and inviting as the last one. She dedicated herself to raising her four children as she carried on with the many duties of a devoted military wife. She was especially proud of her close involvement in the Navy Ombudsman Program in which she was a liaison who worked to connect and support other military families. She prided herself in always being of service to others as she volunteered her time with a caring and giving heart. She assisted in her children’s schools, taught piano, participated

in Girl Scouting as a young girl and then later as an adult troop leader. She also volunteered as a church member, sang in several church choirs, and joined numerous community organizations such as Welcome Wagon and was a board member in the Fredericksburg Salvation Army. She always gave to others and encouraged them to do so in return.

Dianne was laid to rest beside her beloved husband, parents, and aunt in a graveside service in the Holland family plot at Holly Lawn Cemetery in Suffolk, VA at 2 PM on

January 20th, 2024. And, enclosed is a picture we all can appreciate:

Mom & Dad - 2011

Excerpts from the obituary of Cecilia (Cecy) Mickey:

M Cecy was born on 7 October 1938 in Washington, DC. She graduated from Georgetown University School of Nursing, where she met her love, Daniel Mickey. Cecy was a born caretaker, and her love for people led to a successful nursing career that began at Hartford Hospital and continued as the Head Nurse for the East Windsor school system and the Nurse at East Windsor High School, as a nurse with the Visiting Nurse & Health Services of Connecticut, and volunteering in Hospice Care. She carried that nurturing quality forward, creating a bereavement support group for widows and widowers at St Patrick - St. Anthony. A Celebration of Life was held 3 January 2024 at the Unitarian Universalist Society, East, 153 West Vernon Street, Manchester, CT.

PRAISE AND PROMOTION. The BOOK, “Shaking up the World”, compiled by Jim Paulk (06), has taken on its real life in the hands of the editor. Various class members have been helping with editing inputs, but the book has nearly arrived with it’s final editing stages, as of this writing, before publishing. I quote from one of Jim’s latest emails: “I believe that the book could receive a wide distribution and perhaps become a model for other classes - it needs to be exceptional and I believe it is and can’t wait

USNA ’57

for all of you to get your hands and eyes on it. I’m also happy with the positive feedback we are receiving…. Feel free to share ... with family and friends. Put them in Shipmate, let everyone know the book is coming. Prepare the world, here comes ’57.”

EXTENDED RECOGNITION. With the above in mind, and acknowledging that our GPS’ father, Brad Parkinson, and our moonwalking Charlie Duke, represented in “the BOOK”, and noting they are getting well deserved accolades for their incredible contributions, we also must say that there are more in our class deserving of this kind of praise. The November 27 – 10 December 2023 issue of Aviation Week and Space Technology, devoted it’s cover and many articles to the 50th anniversary of GPS. An article therein by Brad, entitled “The Critical Failure that Led to GPS”, gives note to something many of us experienced in our careers in defense development and acquisition. After Brad’s presentation to a room full of representatives of various elements needed for the project’s approval, no one would stick their oar in to pull together and try to get the project off the ground. So, after Brad’s “failure”, a senior political appointee/civil servant, Dr. Malcom R. Currie by name, took Brad aside, one-on-one, and recognizing Brad’s grasp of the “physics of the problem” so to speak, and his ability to lead a small staff of real experts, then set about weaving his project’s successful trip through the acquisition bureaucracy. This feat bears some recognition by our class. Many of our own pioneering accomplishments, such as the remarkable extension of nuclear power plant longevity, reliability and simplification; the first use of total, programmable, software control of several undersea weapons; the vast improvements in the Ohio Class submarine program and Trident missile capability; are examples all having the hallmarks of our own leadership, along with an excellent cadre of a few civil servants who made these projects succeed in a vast sea of bureaucratic counter currents.

ARMY-NAVY GAME. The largest Army-Navy gathering of 57 Classmates west of the Mississippi (probably the whole USA) for the 2023 Game:

Jim and Carol Beatty did it again this year hosting a fabulous Army Navy game party with all the trimmings of bloody Marys, mimosas, and the very popular Prosecco champagne. The setting was their beautiful home in the Coronado Cays. While the outcome was flawed the fare wasn’t. Great hors oeuvres prepared professionally by son Parker and daughter Susan. The main course was delicious Italian lasagna and two green salads and desserts too delicious to describe. Seven classmates and significant others attended with a gaggle of the second generation totaling 27 guests. Jim held his blind score matrix game at $5 for 10 guesses. George Kachigian’s daughter Mindy won $10 and one couple hit the jackpot for $40! Classmates attending left to right front are Jim Beatty (4), George Kachigian (23), John Holt (14), back row Bud Edney (5), Harry Gimber (4), Joe Koch (11) and George Lanman (6).

ON THE EAST COAST: Not to be outdone by that West Coast bunch, the DC metro area gathers on a monthly basis at the Army Navy Country Club for a Wednesday luncheon with Jerry Smith (01) taking care of the details. Usually there are 12-16 in attendance.

Each year for Christmas, this bunch, along with wives and children, and the heavy lifting done by Pete Junghans (11), puts on one fine Christmas Party, also at the ANCC, with gifts brought and donated to a DC area charity. This year a group of 17 fine old gentlemen, with 11 wives and two children, showed up.

’58

Life Membership: 61%

Donor Participation: 28.98%

Pres: Lt Col Gordon M. Gerson, USAF (Ret.) e: gordon.gerson@1958.usna.com

Corr Sec’y: CAPT Bill Schramm, USN (Ret.) 17 Calera Canyon, Salinas, CA 93908 p: 831-484-9058; e: w_schramm@comcast.net

Webmaster: CAPT Fred Victor, USN (Ret.) e: avictor@erols.com

Website: www.usna.com/Classes/1958

THOMAS BUELL, USNA 1958, 12TH COMPANY – Admiral Raymond Spruance USN, one of our most famous Naval Officers in WWII lived in Pebble Beach CA in his retirement years and was a member of a local men’s club which I currently belong to. Recently I was asked to give a talk to the club on the life of Admiral Spruance. I obtained a copy of the biography of Admiral Spruance titled “The Quiet Warrior” and discovered that the author was our Classmate Tom Buell. As I further discovered Tom was a well-known author and historian. He received the Samuel Eliot Morison Award for Distinguished Contribution to Naval Literature from the Naval Order of the United States and the Alfred Thayer Mahan Award for Literary Achievement from the Navy League. He also was the author of “Master of Sea Power” a biography of Admiral of the Fleet Ernest King and numerous other articles and books. Tom passed away in 2002, but left behind a well done legacy. (“The Quiet Warrior” is a great read if you are interested in WWII in the Pacific.)

THE WASHINGTON SOCIAL WHIRL – On 30 November 2023 the DC chapters of USNA ‘58 and USMA ‘58 gathered for their annual pre Army/Navy football game luncheon. Harry Hurst (Navy) and Brad Johnson (Army) were the speakers. Attending from our Class were Jack and Ann Adams, Dan Bellay, Paul and Carolyn Brown, Linda Gamboa, Gordon and Jane Gerson, Mike and Eileen Giglio, Harry Hurst, Taylor Keith, Eric and Barbara Mansfield, Barbara Polski, and Pete and Julie Russell.

Paul Brown presented the following poem which he wrote.

The Great ’58

On the 4th of June 1958 we graduated from West Point and the USNA

That morning was sixty-five very long years ago, that was yesterday

Time flows in one direction only, to the present and future from the past

If only we could revisit that day so very long ago and make it forever last

We served in the mountains, jungles, heat and rain of South Vietnam

and sailed underneath the polar ice of the Arctic Ocean for our Uncle Sam We served our country on land, in the air and under the deep blue sea

’57: From left to right we have: D. Cooper (15), L. Cohen (01), W. Peerenboom (3), D. Peacher (10), R. Wellborn (11), F. Hanvey (05) (front). R. Crouch (21) (back), C. Hall (07), J. Hower (14) (back), W. Alexander (07), P. Junghans (11) (back), G. Philipps (17), P. Boyne (06) (back), D. Smith (02), C. Fraser (15) and W. Smith (01).

58/59 CLASS NEWS

Our goal to keep the USA, the land of the brave and the home of the free If only we could reverse that flow of time and revisit those years long past Joyful times with classmates long ago would be absolutely unsurpassed May God bless our deceased classmates from the Great Fifty Eight their families, wives, children and grandchildren. May their futures be great

MORE SOCIAL WHIRLING IN DC–

On 8 December our Class Washingtonians gathered at a Crystal City sports pub to view the Army/Navy game. (The name of the pub and the game are best forgotten.) On 14 December it was time for the annual Christmas luncheon at the Army/Navy Country Club. Whitey and Lois Edwards provided festive centerpieces and Polly Mitchell and Dan Bellay provided the music for Christmas carols.

SUMMER CRUISE 1955 – PART VII –

(from the diary of Dave Ault, 10th Company) 27 June - Anchors Away and right on schedule. It was a sad day seeing Spain disappear. I have to come back. Maybe for a little longer stay. I would make that darn train ride all over again just for one night with her in Madrid. How long before I’ll forget her? Probably as soon as we hit London or soon after. What a fool I am! Last day in the office. The XO sort of wanted us out. So did CDR Nash. It’s all right with me though they are darned screwed up. But must remember they are ROTCs. We got out at 1600 and didn’t go back. It is great to go out and just be on a blanket until movie time. Worked on my plane. Don’t see how I can get it home if I finish it. Guess I won’t. Did practice on my castanets though. Should have them down pat by the time I get home.” His Majesty O’Keefe” wasn’t too bad. Typical Burt Lancaster at his fair to middling though. Had a pleasant surprise when I hit the rack. Letter from Mom. Very good, long one. Full of good news too. Dick’s graduation and Sara tied for first in her class. Hope she keeps it up for three more years. I think it is just as important and I certainly practice what I preach. Oh Life, how wonderful you are, especially over on this side of the ocean. It was a great night of sleep to look forward to. To bed so early.

28 June – A full day of sailing. It isn’t rough at all yet. Still in the Med. My first day as a sailor doesn’t seem as bad as working in the office was. Much more free time and am outside all day. Went to the movie again.“King Richard and the Crusaders”. Had already seen it, but it was nice to look at Ginny Mayo again. To bed early again. Guess it will be a common practice from now on. At least as long as I stand no watches. Hope they forgot my name since I haven’t gotten any yet. They are so screwed up they probably have. Spain is rapidly disappearing. Africa has come up on the port beam. Not as clearly seen as when we came in. We should be out at sea again tomorrow. Started a letter to MN tonight. It’s going to last

a couple of days I guess. I wish I’d written more often, but then her last letter seemed cooler than previously they have been. Hope she still wants to come to Maine. Buenos Noches all.

29 June – Belle jour. Up at 0600, turn to at 0615. Turned in first Cruise Journal assignments. It doesn’t seem too bad as long as one pays attention at lectures. And that’s not too easy on a hot day. Went through the usual GQ and gun firing. Free tomorrow. Was all decked out for a cool evening at the movies when they announced it would be inside. That finished that. Went to the rack immediately. Wrote another page or two to MN. It is getting to be a diary now. Must get another one off to Mom and Ruthie, also brother Dick’s birthday is coming up. Graduation congrats too. It’s great to hear that he made it. Sara too. To bed real early. Probably won’t sleep all night.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER DEPARTMENT–Dianne Hughes the widow of Massie Hughes, 3rd Company visited Iceland last year with Neta Sharp the widow of Stan Sharp, 1st Company and Dianne sent me this picture of the two of them with the “’58 IS GREAT” flag. I misfiled the email, but Dianne followed up and resent her email. Way to go Dianne.

CLOSING RANKS

William Simmons, 7th Company, passed away on 11 December 2023

Alan Chodorow, 12th Company, died on 9 January 2024

Harry Konkel, 6th Company, died on 6 January 2024

William Simmons, 7th Company, died on 11 December 2023

William Smith, 4th Company, died on 25 November 2023

Arthur Immerman, 2nd Company, died on 6 May 2023

Marcia Stephenson, wife of Hap Stephenson, 15th Company, died on 21 July 2021

Shelia Lanoue, wife of Bob Lanoue, 24th Company, died on 13 January 2024

Penelope Rogers, widow of Richard Rogers, 20th Company died on 28 October 2023

Grace Chevalier, wife of John Chevalier, 18th Company, died on 23 November 2023

’59

Life Membership: 64%

Donor Participation: 24.38%

Chairman Executive Committee: Tom “Luke” Lukish e: tluke5959@gmail.com

Executive Vice President Administration: Tom Billings e: tomsfree1959@gmail.com

Executive Vice Pres Services: Bob Beaton e: cccusna@gmail.com

CorporateTreas: Joe “Paddy” Ford e: Hagerty127@comcast.net

Corporate Sec’y: Art Emmerson e: pickemm@verizon.net

Shipmate Editor: Larry Weaver

e: ls.weaver@icloud.com

Webmasters: Pete and Elaine Stout e: estout3915@verizon.net

Website: www.usna1959.com

A Truer Than Fiction Vietnam War Story - Art Merz (22)

One of several A4C pilot’s ‘Bad Days’ flying combat missions in Vietnam. It was a nice flying day. Rolling off a bomb target at the DMZ, encountering moderate flak, I noticed that my secondary flip-flop oil pressure gauge came on. Thinking probably a gauge malfunction I wasn’t too concerned. Shortly thereafter, however, my primary oil pressure gauge went to zero. Then I knew I was in trouble. I headed straight for the ocean. I asked the Marine Controller where the closest emergency field was. According to NATOPS, I had approximately 30 minutes of engine life left after zero oil pressure. He replied, Quang Tri, about 30 nm South of me. He said it had 3,000  ft. of runway. Too short for me to make a landing, however, I asked if it had arresting gear. He replied, ‘Yes’. So I set my power at 90% and that’s where I headed. I asked my wingman to look at the underneath of my A4, if there was any AA damage. He said ‘No’. On to Quang Tri. Since I did not want to change my power setting I was too fast to put my gear down. So, I pulled my nose up sharply when I saw the Quang Tri runway, to bleed off airspeed. When I got below 120 Kts, I lowered my gear. Should have advised my wingman of what I was doing, because when he saw me climb abruptly he thought I was going to eject. And, being a young Jg, he didn’t want to watch and looked away. So, when I turned toward the runway, dirty for landing with hook down, I looked but couldn’t find him. Couldn’t worry about where he went, I only had one chance to land my crippled bird. It had to be good. I didn’t trust the engine - having already flown over 30 minutes with zero oil pressure - to safely make a wave-off. I landed perfectly on the numbers and caught the arresting chain. After getting help out of the chain, I taxied clear. I was met by a couple of Army pilots. Quang Tri was an Army auxiliary field back then. The two Army Lt’s took care of me for the next week of my un-booked stay. I was put up in a Hooch. I had a cot, flight suit, G-suit, a pistol, wallet and a

hanky. Not much else. Oh, a flight helmet and Ox mask.

The first night and every night after, the air-raid sirens went off just after sunset. My two Army escorts came and got me and took me to an underground bunker. There were quite a few people there, and a lot of dirt. We sat on benches around the sides of the bunker. Then the mortars rained in. Dirt fell from the ceiling and the bunker shook a bit. The lights flickered. Just like on MASH. I must have looked a little scared, because my two escorts looked at me and laughed. “You’re a Navy carrier pilot. You can’t be scared of a few mortar rounds going off over your head!” I returned the looks, and said, “You guys are out of your fxxxxxg minds!” One bright spot though, the Army guys brought a bottle of Jack Daniels with them and a bucket of ice cubes. No glasses. You just popped an ice cube into your mouth and took a swig of bourbon. Like I said, ‘every night for the entire stay’. Got a little use to it, but not totally. One of the nights following, a mortar hit the Hooch I was staying in. Made quite a mess. Good thing, going to the bunker.

The next day I talked my two Army escorts into flying me out to my carrier, USS Shangri-La, in their Grumman Mohawk. It only had two seats, so I stood between the pilot and co-pilot. Army pilots are not comfortable flying over the ocean. The conversation got noticeably quieter as land disappeared behind us. We found the carrier easy enough. They had TACAN. While over the carrier I radioed my Squadron Skipper and relayed that I was safe, but the A4 probably wasn’t flyable. He said they would fly a COD to Quang Tri the next day to check the A4 over. Before heading back, I got clearance from the Air Boss for the Mohawk to make a low pass up the flight deck to give the carrier deck crew a close up view of the ugly Mohawk. Couldn’t talk the Army pilots to descend below 100 ft. I didn’t push it. They had enough ocean flying for a day.

The next day the COD arrived with an Aviation Mechanic aboard. He checked the A4 over and recommended against trying to fly it out. So me and it remained. The Ship and the Army arranged for a sky crane helicopter to pick up the A4 the next day and fly it to Da Nang. Quite a sight watching the flying ‘erector set’ hook up and lift the A4 out.

Since all of this happened on the carrier’s last two flying days of that on-station operating period, I was left at Quang Tri and the ship sailed on to Subic Bay for a week’s R&R and maintenance.

With nothing for me to do, my escorts came up with an idea of taking me on a tour of the Provincial Capitol of Hue, only a few miles away. Early the next morning, a kind-a Jeep showed up. It had four seats and a flat bed with a mounted 50 cal machine gun…and a soldier to man it. Everyone was armed, except me. I had turned my 38 cal survival pistol in to their armory after landing…like a good sailor.

I must have looked a bit skeptical, because they told me, “Nothing to worry about. Hue was basically calm since the big battle there a year or so ago.” So, off we went. We never slowed below 50 mph. The City was in ruins, and not a soul to be seen. Other than to say I’d been there, not much of a sight seeing tour. I was glad to get back to Quang Tri.

One day, after about a week at Quang Tri, I saw an Air Force C130 land. I ran out to the runway to talk to the crew. It was a base supply plane. It only had seats for the pilot and copilot, no crew. I asked the pilot, a Lt., where they were heading next. He said Clark AFB. I briefly told him my plight and asked if there was a chance that he could drop me off at Cubi Pt. on his way. He said he could, but there were no seats. I said that I would stand on the platform between him and his co-pilot for the trip. Reluctantly, he said OK. (Maybe because I was a LCDR, (Major in his world.) He waited for me while I got my sparse belongings and said goodbye and thanks to my Army escorts. Off we flew to Cubi Pt. Quite a ride standing in the cockpit area of a C130. I felt a little bit like I was in the Millennium Falcon. They dropped me off and I hitched a ride to the other side of the bay to board the Shang.

Typical of Navy Squadrons, I was welcomed back aboard with an “Oh, Hi there, Art” Anyway it was great to be back aboard. Quite an adventure. The next day or so we sailed back to Yankee Station for our last on-line period. In thankful consideration of the help the two Army pilots gave me during my stay with them, I asked CAG and the Shang’s Captain, to fly the COD to Quang Tri to bring my two Army escorts back out to the carrier for a day and night to observe real time carrier operations. It was arranged. Both Lts. were blown away by the experience. They said to me before they left that the experience confirmed what they had been led to believe, “That carrier pilots were out of their fxxxxxg minds to do what they do.” “Especially, at night!” And, actually, the night they witnessed, was dark but clear. No bad weather, nor pitching deck to contend with. Different strokes for different folks.

Sorry, I don’t remember the two Lt’s names. It was over 50 years ago. I’m surprised that I remember all that I have. It was truly a memorable experience.

Holiday Season

A festive group of 59’ers gathered at Springfield (VA) Golf & Country Club in early December to kick off the holiday season. Such a celebration has been an annual event for classmates of the greater Washington, D.C. area for over a decade. A delicious luncheon and social time highlighted this joyous get together.

The celebrants included Ann Alexander, Jay (22) and Pat Bainbridge, Tom (6) and Ona Billings, Betsy Dobbs, Bill Drotleff (22), Art (6) and Nickie(Pickett) Emmerson, Joan Finerty, Joe (6) and Lois Flynn, Paddy (15) and Mary Ford, Ginny Johnson, Jennifer London,

Dave (13) and Barbara Rogers, Pete (10) and Elaine Stout, Walt (18) and Caroline Szczypinski, and Bonnie Welsh.”

L-R Caroline Szczypinski, Jennifer London and Ann Alexander

Dave Rogers (seated), Pat Bainbridge, Barbara Rogers, and Jay Bainbridge

Lois Flynn (seated), L-R Caroline Szczypinski, Joe Flynn, Betsy Dobbs and Mary Ford

L-R Caroline Szczypinski, Betsy Dobbs and Walt Szczypinski

The USNA Alumni Association & Foundation has set out a yellow post card as part of their comprehensive alumni data verification project. This card requests all alumni to contact the USNAAA&F partner, PCI at the following number as soon as possible to take care of this important matter: 1-888-811-8793

If you have not received this card, please contact me (Larry Weaver) at 1-813-917-5962

’60

Life Membership: 71%

Donor Participation: 26.29%

Pres: CAPT Douglas M. Johnston Jr., USNR (Ret.) p: 202-203-8360; e: dmjj60@gmail.com

Vice Pres: CAPT Bob Osmon, USN (Ret.)

Treas: CAPT Geoege W. Dowell III, USN (Ret.)

Sec’y: Bill Lewis

1300 S Hwy. A1A Unit 508, Jupiter, FL 33477 p: 804-334-6353; e: bilewis@comcast.net

Webmaster: Richard Harper p: 805-583-1640; e: Richard.Harper@1960.USNA.com

Website: http://www.1960.usnaclasses.net

President’s Corner

Dear Classmates: If you haven’t visited USNA within the past couple of years, there’s a new addition you’ll want to check out when you have a chance: The Ron Terwilliger ‘63 Center for Student-Athletes. A $27 million dollar extension of Ricketts Hall (inside Gate 1), the Center was completed in September of 2021 to celebrate the physical mission of the Academy and the athletic exploits of any number of Mids over the years.

I haven’t had a chance to check, but I suspect both Plebe Summer roommates may be included among those so honored: Lyman Perry (7), who was Stroke Man on the 1960 Olympic Crew Team, and Randy McHenry (7), who holds the all-time record in the 220-yard low hurdles. I say “all time” with a relaxed degree of certainty, because the year after Randy set the record, they discontinued running at that distance. Anyway, a treat awaits your next visit to the Big House.

Carpe diem! —Doug

From merf (little m) Moerschel (2):

M “About half of our remaining 2nd Company shipmates & wives took an American Cruise Lines 5-day 4-night cruise from New Orleans up the Mississippi and back in early December. The weather cooperated... we dodged rain on both ends. The river was about 20 feet below norms resulting in busing us to St. Francisville, LA our turn-back port for the shore tours there.

The service, food and amenities were exceptional. We were feted with a cocktail party with the skipper and were provided with a private room to watch the A-N game. Close again but no cigar! Several of us toured NOLA and visited the WWII Memorial Museum. The museum is located in NOLA because Andrew Jackson Higgins the developer of the LCVP (Higgins Boat) and other landing craft were built there. Great venue. The best part was being with each other and sharing experiences. We highly recommend the “Company” approach to reunion as we approach our 65th ... and beyond. Further, the sizable American Cruise Lines fleet operates on all coasts including the Great Lakes. Check them out.

From Wayne Vinje (9):

M “The insurance company Grinch caught up with me recently, and ended my solo flying career at age 84. I’m still OK to fly and carry insurance, but I need a qualified “Minder” in the right seat. A most uninteresting way to aviate. And this happens after I’ve learned to fly aerobatics, (“Gentleman’s” aerobatics, mind you: Immelmann’s, Hammerheads, Cuban Eights, Split S’s, and the like. No Lomcovaks.) and have possessed two, most interesting aerobatic airplanes: A Micco SP26A and an Extra 330LT, both pictured here. The Micco was built by the Seminole Indians, and there are only 15 or so flying. It’s all metal and fully gear retractable with a 260HP Lycoming engine, but it’s heavy, weighing around 2600 lbs. for aerobatic flight. The Extra is 1000 lbs. lighter with 40 more HP, a real flying machine. Both airplanes have great visibility, bubble canopies with the Micco having side by side seats and the Extra fore and aft. My Extra model, 330LT, was not certified (I had been promised that it would be). Rather, I believe their current best aerobatic model, the 330SC grew out of the 330LT.

The insurance company’s behavior is particularly rude, since getting to this stage in my flying experience took some doing. I grew up loving airplanes, from the crop dusters at work in eastern ND, to the B-36’s still gaining altitude as they flew north from Ellsworth AFB, SD, to the P-51s of the NDANG. When I was

L-R Bonnie Welsh, Ginny Johnson, Bill Drotleff, Joan Finerty and Nickie Pickett

L-R. Walt & Caroline Szczypinski, Elaine & Pete Stout

L-R Tom and Ona Billings, Joan Finerty and Art Emmerson

accepted to USNA, it was a given that I would apply to become a Naval Aviator. Upon graduation, I did but the Medicos decreed that my left eye was 20/20 - 2, not good enough to fly. (I also was told that I had too much astigmatism for the submarine service. Are the vision requirements for either still this tight?). I wanted to fly the machine rather than tell the pilot where to go, so I didn’t opt for Flight Officer training.

The USAF came calling, and I accepted, spending two years at the U of Michigan and leaving with two engineering Master’s degrees on my way to Holloman AFB, NM to test inertial guidance systems. Such systems were a priority then, as this was the time of John F Kennedy’s “Missile Gap.”  It was good work, but the USAF was run by fighter pilots, career opportunities weren’t great in R&D, and I still wanted to fly airplanes. Once more my left eye didn’t pass muster for pilot training, so I decided that telling the pilot where to go might be the only way I could get on the operational side of the USAF. I passed the Navigator aptitude test with a record score, but this time the vision folks said I didn’t have the near vision I needed to be a navigator. By this time, I was 26 years old, and the Regs said I was too old to apply for either pilot or navigator training.

I concluded that the Cosmic Plan for me was not in military aviation. I left the USAF, earned my engineering PhD and have had a rewarding career in high technology, much of it for the DoD and Intelligence Community.

Wayne Vinje

From Ron Burdge (9):

M “Linda and I attended the Memorial Service for Gene Tucker (9) on June 12. Other Ninth Company attendees (included Norm Slezak and Harriett, John Groth and Joan, Mike Gavlak and Marlene, as well as our Class President, Doug Johnston (5) and Dareen. The service was held at Ashby Ponds Senior Living

community, Ashburn, VA, where Gene and Dolly had recently relocated. The Tucker family arranged a beautiful service and reception on relatively short notice. It was very well attended.

Gene’s close friend, and fellow naval aviator, Rear Admiral Fred Lewis’62, spoke of Gene’s exceptional career, including his distinguished Vietnam combat service, which was chronicled in the pamphlet, USN Phantoms in Combat. His many awards included the Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross. Norm, who was Gene’s NAPS classmate, and four-year roommate, along with Gene’s son, Bob, spoke of the more personal side of his life. The service was a fitting tribute to the man and the warrior. He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

At graduation, Gene, along with John, Norm, (Charley Simmons, Art Wegner deceased), and myself agreed to keep in touch. And we did, through a chain letter, Class reunions, and other occasions. We were all submariners, except for Gene, the fighter pilot. He was clearly, the most colorful one of the group. and could always keep us laughing. The Burdges and Slezaks were blessed, to have Gene and Dolly living close by, in the DC area, which allowed for many enjoyable get-togethers. He will be greatly missed. —Bob

From Bob Ianucci (16):

M “Happy New Year, Bill! A group of our Williamsburg - Hampton Roads area classmates braved the dire weather predictions for 9 January and gathered at one of our favorite lunch spots, Bubba’s Crab and Seafood Restaurant in Virginia Beach. Our first of the year gathering included: Al Ablowich (16), Al Bissell (8), Bob Ianucci (16), Bert Johnson (10), Bob Osmon (17), Wick Parcells (12), Bill Townsend (19), Henry von Kolnitz (22) and Al Whitaker (16). Lots of sea stories were exchanged, some old some new.

Oz gave us a preview of the mini reunion scheduled for 6 February in New Smyrna Beach, FL. Dinners and side trips to Kennedy Space Center and St. Augustine have been arranged for those interested.

Looking ahead to February, Bob I. said he was working with Rod Friedmann (5) to set a location for our annual Valentine/couples lunch. Bob also told the group about his son Tom’s serious bout with the RSV virus which landed him in Lawrence Memorial hospital in New London for 3 days. Tom is the Command Chaplain at the US Coast Guard Academy. Bob strongly recommends that we all talk to our doctors and get the RSV vaccination.

Regret no photos to send with this. Have a Happy, Healthy New Year - and get that RSV vaccination. —Bob

From Hap Peterson (22):

M “Bill, Jan and I were privileged to celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary on 4 January with our son, Scott ’88 and his bride, Lori. Jan and I were married at the NAS Patuxent River Chapel. Bob Kowall (20) was responsible for

my meeting Jan in July 1962. It took me until January ’64 to land this prize. Classmate and squadron mate, Carl McCallum (6), and his bride, Marilyn, were our Best Man and Matron of Honor. We continue to be blessed and live near our son in Argyle, TX.

—Hap Peterson ’22

Hap & Jan PETERSON ’61

Life Membership: 73%

Donor Participation: 33.10%

Pres: RADM Jerome F. Smith Jr., USN (Ret.)

Corr Sec’y: CAPT Bob Sherer, USN (Ret.) 2301 River Crescent Dr., Annapolis MD 21401 p: 410-266-1334 voice and text e: enavant1305@icloud.com; sherer@1961.usna.com

Webmaster: Howard Winfree e: winfree@1961.usna.com

Website: www.USNA61.org

Dear Classmates,

I hope this issue brings hope of fairer weather and more opportunities to BEAT ARMY.

The Annapolis group dined at McGarvey’s to wind up the year. A good percentage came over from Virginia.

In the photo: from left: Jack Pappas (2), Jim Connell (2), Jay Bower (14), Ron Campbell (15), Bob Fitch (6), Ron Carlberg (20), Bob Giuffreda (2), Bob Glover (8), Ike Cole (5), Jerry Smith (8), Mike Welch (7), Bob Sherer (4), Dana French (17), Rich Lamporte (15), Bill Ciesla (18)

’61 at McGarvey’s

The ladies dined as usual at Carroll’s Creek. Real dedication was evident as Gloria Stem had driven from Philadelphia and Caryl Morgan had come from Vienna to Annapolis with a courtesy ride from guest and photographer Anju Olsen.

Jim Richardson reports:

M Twenty-one San Diego area Classmates and guests gathered at the San Diego Yacht Club for the Army Navy Game. Joining us again were Alan & Lynne Armstrong (USMA 1961).

Bob Graham reports:

M This was the 20th consecutive year the Hampton Roads Chapter of the Class of ’61 have gathered at the Grahams to celebrate a Navy victory. The game fell inches short, but we won the party. (Scribe Note: Hampton Roads edged out San Diego 26-21 in attendance).

Your scribe made it to Boston for the annual grudge match with Army. No need to elaborate on the contest other than to observe that one head rolled as a result of the tentative nature of Navy offense this season. Fans were welcomed

by Meet Boston, a tourism non-profit, at the Sheraton around the city. The photo is from the dueling pep rallies at Faneuil Hall. The pregame tailgate in two Foxboro eateries, Citizen Crunch and Port Louie, was packed, and we were visited by Bill the (’71) Goat as we watched the pregame TV. Nature showed mercy upon us with fair weather and 50-degree temps. Classmates I encountered included Warren Hoppe (21) and Benno Gerson (19). I actually just ran into Benno on a street corner. Warren also saw Ernie Moreno (23). A major benefit of the travel arrangement was the bus to the stadium which made the two-hour ride more relaxing than it would be driving. Warren met up with his Class of 2011 Commitment Dinner host, Alan Janigian, who is in a Harvard/MIT/Tufts joint program. CDR Janigian was most recently Executive Officer in Manchester (LCS 14).

(21) Janigian ’11

Raese (Suitcase) Simpson sends Club 11 news from St Louis:

M “It is pretty hard to submit gripping articles about ’61 in the St. Louis area. To my knowledge, I am the only one left, and who wants to hear details about the installation of my new pace-maker. Plus our football team – the Rams, moved back to California, and for the first time in a long time, the Cardinals are in a nose dive. BUT something did happen here this past November! My company mate (Club 11) and our classmate, Tim deGavre (Pygmy - a nickname imposed due to being way shorter than his roommate, Dave Parker), decided he wanted to visit his daughters in Colorado. So he and, his very British other half, Caroline, hopped in their car and headed west. The biggest problem was that zipping from the Villages in Florida to Western Colorado is an exhausting trip. There was no time to see any buffalo or Indians crossing the plains in Kansas. Therefore, on the return trip, they decided to slow down. In addition to seeing local wildlife, their first stop was the metropolis of Hays,

Sherer (4 ) Gerson (19)

Hoppe

’61 ladies at Carroll’s Creek. From left Julia Erickson, Gisela Cole, Barbara Bower, Donna Ralston-Latham, Gloria Stem, Liz Zaic (guest of Gloria), Kathy Rosenberger, Chris Umberger and Caryl Morgan.

’61 From left to right in the attached picture were: Alan Armstrong (USMA 1961), Lynne Armstrong, Dick Rothwell (7), Chuck St Laurent (21), Ann Rothwell, Ed Oleata (10), Ben Allen (10), Barbara Allen, Hanna Richardson, Bruce Maxon (15), Melanie Maxon, Leo Willets (5), Tom Bailey (16), Kathryn Willetts, Jim Cavanaugh (11), Jim Richardson (16), Jack Allen (13), Betty Bailey, Bill Kraus (12) and Patsy Kraus

’61 From left to right were: Alan Armstrong (USMA 1961), Lynne Armstrong, Dick Rothwell (7), Chuck St Laurent (21), Ann Rothwell, Ed Oleata (10), Ben Allen (10), Barbara Allen, Hanna Richardson, Bruce Maxon (15), Melanie Maxon, Leo Willets (5), Tom Bailey (16), Kathryn Willetts, Jim Cavanaugh (11), Jim Richardson (16), Jack Allen (13), Betty Bailey, Bill Kraus (12) and Patsy Kraus

Kansas, famous for its many motels. Then Kansas City, where they enjoyed some good barbecue. The next night found them in St. Louis with us. How the sea stories and whiskey flowed. My best Irish whiskey, Middleton, is gone! Tim and Caroline managed to take in the St. Louis Arch and Planetarium. After several nights, Ann and I bade farewell to the travelers, who headed for Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry. Then back to Florida for an Army-Navy game watch party. Will we see each other again? Of course!” Raese (Suitcase) Simpson.

Your scribe had lunch with D&B buddy Bix Bicknell in Denver. Bix claims the distinction of being a bugler who never played trumpet. He got the bugling Boy Scout merit badge using a mail order instrument and instruction book. Who needs a trumpet?

Lois F Bicknell (7) Sherer (4)

PS to my report in the September issue about the Pat Boone Academy visit our second class year. Alert photographer Joe Hansen (22) snapped an unauthorized paparazzo shot of Pat and some conscripted members of the student body in the rotunda.

Pat Boone and friends

PS to the January February issue - please add Joe Kiel (7) to those attending home football games. Get done with ’61

’62

Life Membership: 75% Donor Participation: 31.08%

Pres: RADM William C. Miller, USN (Ret.)

Sec’y: Robert Giles 1749 Baldwin Dr., Millersville, MD 21108 p: 301-395-4379; e: robert.giles@gmail.com

A Legacy Story

CDR Richard “Dick” C. Treanor, SC, USN (Ret.)

Submitted by, Rear Admiral Julie M. Treanor ’94, USN M Bob,

In support of your desire to present a legacy piece on my father and I, I offer three pictures, my bio and a few thoughts: My bio link: rear-admiral-julie-m-treanor

My Father, Dick was born in Medford, MA and he was married to my mother, Sheila J. Treanor, his high school sweetheart for 32 years (1962-1994). Together my parents raised seven children, 6 girls and one boy. I am the sixth of seven children in terms of birth order. My father currently enjoys 16 grandchildren and he remains extremely active physically by walking, playing golf and tennis, and ensuring he is present for every one of his grandchildren’s major life milestones.

My Dad was the only member of his family to attend college. For that reason, he and my Mother, Sheila, made education a priority for their children and all seven of their children graduated college: 2 Virginia Tech, 1 West Virginia University, 1 Virginia Military Institute, 2 Medical College of Virginia and 1 from the Naval Academy. Each of us have gone on to be successful in our own rights including being the Provost of a University, a Communications Director for a major firm, a Continuous Process Improvement Executive, an engineer/business owner, two pharmacists including one Doctor of Pharmacy…and finally, myself, a Rear Admiral.

My father played baseball and football at the Naval Academy. Following in his multi sport athletics footsteps all of us Treanor children played a variety of sports growing up and through high school. Like my Dad, at USNA specifically, I also played two sportsVarsity soccer and softball.

My father was a Supply Corps Officer retiring as a Commander and I followed in his footsteps in the same field. I am currently the Director of Fleet Logistics and Ordnance and United States Fleet Forces Command.

In terms of a sea story my father told me once about how as a brand new SUPPO on his first payday onboard which at that time was conducted all in cash at the end of the day he’d come up five dollars short. He searched for hours for the five dollars checking and double checking his math and the registers to no avail. Rather than chip in the money himself and cover the error he did the right thing and reported the loss to his Commanding Officer. After letting then ENS Treanor sweat for a bit,

Tim & Caroline deGavre - Ann and Raese Simpson

the Commanding Officer admitted that he himself had taken $5 from my father to test the integrity of the newest addition to his Wardroom. “You passed.” the CO told him.

I have kept my father’s lesson to always do what is right even to heart and it has been instrumental throughout my career but none more memorable than when I was the Supply Officer onboard then PCU GERALD R. FORD. The night prior a visit by the ship’s sponsor, Ms. Susan Ford Bales, President Ford’s daughter, my Department was working to transfer a significant historical artifact, the flag that had adorn President Ford’s coffin as he lay in state at the U.S. Capitol to a custom presentation shadowbox which would be focal point in the Commanding Officer’s cabin. The President’s burial flag had been gifted to the ship nearly two years prior and had been stored in a makeshift shadowbox inside a government vault.

That day we opened the temporary shadowbox and were shocked to find there was no flag within the box. Instead the “flag” was simply a high quality photo copied image of a flag that perfectly filled the clear viewing panel. After hours of searching the vault and innumerable phone calls to affirm the chain of custody, we still could not find the flag. Harkening back to my father’s lesson and a phone call to him personally to let him know I’d reached the end of my career, I informed my Chain of Command. Like wild fire the news fly upline to the most senior leaders and as expected, the news was relayed to Ms. Susan Bales Ford herself. Within a very long hours time, I got a phone call back from my Commanding Officer. Lo and behold, President Ford’s wife, First Last Betty Ford had actually kept the real flag and had placed it on her husbands pillow sleeping beside it until her death. Retrieving the flag from her Mother’s bedside table, the ship’s sponsor hand delivered the real flag the next day.

Lastly, my Father read me the Oath when I commissioned at USNA in May of 1994 and on that day my Mother stood proudly by his side. My mother passed away just a few months later in December of 1994. As the attached photo shows, my father read me the Oath

again on 15 Dec 2024 as I promoted to Rear Admiral and without a doubt, my Mother was standing there proudly by his side.

Kindly,

Julie

Passing of Classmate James “Al” Marshall

We are sad to report the death of Classmate James Allen “Al” Marshall on February 7, 2023. Al entered USNA class of ’62 from Severn School near Annapolis. He was the son of CDR James Gilbert Marshall, USNA ’32, a decorated WWII destroyer commanding officer, and Mrs. Mary “Emmy” Marshall, better known to us as “Mrs. M”, our USNA Social Director during our Academy years. Al met his wife to be, Phoebe Adams, while in high school in Annapolis. They were married at Annapolis’ St. Anne’s Church in July 1963, and celebrated their 60th anniversary on July 13, 2023 near their home in Aiken, South Carolina. Also, Al’s younger sister, Mary Lee (Marshall), is married to ’62 Classmate Herb Sprague."

’63

Life Membership: 62%

Donor Participation: 27.88%

Pres: CAPT W. Spencer Johnson IV, USN (Ret.)

Sec’y: Michael H. Shelley 27 Cambridge Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 p: 828-506-2201; e: nstar@citcom.net

Website: www.USNA63.org

I am sorry to begin this column by reporting the recent deaths of two of our classmates and

two ’63 wives, as noted below. Be sure to visit the Last Call section of our web site to see their obituaries and other information about their lives.

John P. Burns died on 13 November 2023. Condolences may be sent to his daughter, Sarah Burns, at 917 Hilldale Drive, Royal Oak, MI 48067.

David N. Hull passed away on 2 December 2023. His widow, Ruth, may be contacted at 1850 S Hover St, Unit 202, Longmont, CO 80501-6986.

Bill Hollenack’s wife, Judy, died on 20 November. Bill may be contacted at 291 Resada Drive, Brevard, NC 28712.

Rick Scott’s wife, Jackie, passed away on 1 January. Rick may be contacted at 8523 Thackery Street Apt, 1203, Dallas, TX75225.

We learned of John Burns’ death from George Tracy, who sent this photo and a brief note.

M Long ago, “Burnsie” inadvertently orchestrated my introduction to the late Kay Blythe (Tracy) in Mission Beach, San Diego, in the midst of our respective Vietnam tours. He became the best man in our wedding, beginning our precious 52-plus year marriage. This photo from the wedding shows our classmates Vern Von Sydow on the left, John next to me, and Sonny Glassner and Felix Degolian on the right.

It was a pleasant surprise to receive this email from Matt Sharpe ’82 about a remarkable wardroom group that was led by one of our classmates.

M George Miller, USNA ’63, commanded the nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser USS TEXAS (CGN 39) in the mid 1980s. Under his leadership, we, his officers, bonded and have remained tight ever since. We meet by Zoom monthly and we got together in the Texas hill

At George and Kay Tracy’s wedding

’62: The Treanor Family

’63: USS TEXAS wardroom officers

country during the weekend of 6 - 8 October 2023. I thought you might like the nearby picture for use in Shipmate. All but one of the officers in our group are pictured. “Texas. Great Ship. Great State.”

George Miller ’63 is the front row, 3rd from left. Matt Sharpe ’82 is the front row, 4th from left. The names and alma maters of the others are included with the photo in the web site version of this column.

Have you submitted information to create your Current Biography on our web site? These biographies are an easy way to present and preserve information about your military and civilian careers and other aspects of your life and family up to now. This can include text, photographs, and documents. If you’re undecided, go to the Current Biographies section of our site to review the variety of content there. The information in your biography will remain permanently available to be seen by family, classmates, and others. To establish your biography on our site, submit your information by email to our Webmaster, Steve Coester, at scoester@cfl.rr.com. If you have already created your biography, review it now and send any updates to Steve.

The Class of 1963 web site is hosted at no cost to us by a close friend of our late classmate Bill Kennedy, a founder of our site. You may be surprised to learn that the site is periodically copied by The Internet Archive (archive.org), a nonprofit organization that has been preserving web sites and some other internet content for more than 26 years. Our current biographies are also accessible through that site.

In a timely connection to my mention of the Current Biographies, Dave Moore recently sent a message to his 14th Companymates about obituaries and the information we leave behind. It was tailored for his companymates, so I have extracted and edited parts of his text for your consideration and, I hope, action.

I recently received a question about how to leave an obituary behind for the purposes of the USNA Community. Of course, if you are not concerned about what your classmates and shipmates remember about you then you have no problem.

But think about your family. If you die without having prepared an obituary your widow or your kids will have to write it. It often happens that the obituary written with the hometown paper in mind has little or no information on your military past. Over the last 60 years I have read a lot of obituaries in Shipmate that were written by survivors without knowledge or regard for their father’s military service. Information that you include in your current biography on the Class of 63 web site will be valuable to your survivors.

One of the chief advantages of using the class web site to preserve your information is that you are not constrained by the 400-word limit for Last Call texts in Shipmate magazine.

You can emphasize the parts of your life that are most important to you. The time to write your obituary is before you die. Share it with your family. In fact, you may want to write two obituaries: one for your USNA community and one for the local newspaper. If you are not ready to prepare your obituary, add to your current biography the information that will be useful to those who might have to write it. The 1963 web site is an outstanding asset. You should use it to make life easier for yourself and your family.

Ribbon cutting for the USNA Alumni Association’s Fluegel Alumni Center occurred on 8 September 2023. Individual contributions to the building campaign were an important factor in the success of the multiyear effort. Four of our donor classmates – Austin Seay, Ken Metviner, Robert Simmons and Charles Spadafora – and their wives have been recognized as Plank Owners.

Austin Seay told me about the Plank Owner plaque he received.

M The plaque was a total surprise as it was never mentioned by the Alumni Association that a personalized recognition would be a part of becoming a plank owner. The plaque arrived at my home on Christmas Eve, so I was very pleased to receive it. It is signed by Ron Terwilliger ’63 in his capacity as Chairman of the USNA Alumni Foundation, as well as by Jeff Webb ’95 in his capacity as President and CEO of the USNA Alumni Association and Foundation. I will proudly hang it on my home office wall to be displayed with my other hopefully next week USNA memorabilia.

Ben Redd sent a note about his visit to the Gettysburg battlefield in Pennsylvania following our reunion.

Visitors at the Gettysburg battlefield

M Jan and Bob Van Buren (11th Company) and Joanne and I (5th Company) went to Gettysburg following the 60th Reunion and it

reinforced the “bonds that bind” us all. USNA Chapel services on Sunday morning of the reunion weekend had reinforced our Academy bonds in a way that only alumni can really appreciate. Here is a photo of the four of us, with Van Burens at the left and Redds at the right.

Dave Moore has recently been in contact with his 14th Companymate Frank Wroblewski. He sent this picture of Frank made last October at the assisted living facility where he lives in Tyler, TX. Frank is retired from his full career as an Army officer.

I hope you remember that Frank received the Army Distinguished Service Cross (equivalent to the Navy Cross) for his extraordinary heroism in action in Vietnam. The Pride and Tradition—Valor section of our web site contains the text of Frank’s citation and the texts of citations for many of the major awards conferred on our classmates. I urge you to visit the Valor pages and view these honors as presented there.

Two of our classmates are authors of recently published books that will interest you. Dirck Praeger sent this note about his compilation in December:

M I’ve finally put all the sea stories that I’ve written over the years in a book titled Leatherneck Odyssey—from the farm to Annapolis to the Marines and Beyond. Some of the stories are already on our web site, but there are probably 60 or 70 more in the book. Also in December, Jim De Francia wrote to tell me about his book, Saigon Stories, which relates lighthearted tales from the early 1960’s after the Vietnamese war against the French ended and before the Vietnam war began in earnest.

Jim’s and Dirck’s books are both available from Amazon, where several sample pages from each can be seen. I enjoyed reading the samples and encourage you to follow my lead.

That’s all for now. Please keep sending news and pictures to be enjoyed by our classmates and other readers.

QUALITY – ’63

SHIPMATE

More than 85 years available online to all Alumni Association members. Visit usna.com/shipmate

Austin Seay at the recognition wall

Frank Wroblewski

Life Membership: 65%

Donor Participation: 26.68%

Pres: CAPT Micheal Farmer, USN (Ret.) e: farmer.mike@comcast.net

Corr Sec’y: Roland Marquis

333 Valverde Ln., St. Augustine, FL 32086 p: 847-970-7562; e: bigroland1@comcast.net

Website: www.usna64.org

We open this issue remembering Jerry Seibe, the third of our ten classmates listed on the Viet Nam Memorial Wall. They are listed chronologically in the identical manner their names appear. The first section below covers the narrative accompanying Gerry’s name on The Wall and the second is a transcription from his entry in our 40th Reunion Yearbook submitted by a 17th Company classmate.

The Wall: “On October 26, 1966, there was a flare fire aboard the aircraft carrier USS ORISKANY operating in the Gulf of Tonkin off the coast of Vietnam. Two sailors were re-stowing unexpended MK-24 Mod 3 flares when one was accidentally dropped. The igniter had not been reset to SAFE. As it fell, the safety lanyard was inadvertently pulled, actuating the flare. For reasons known only to him, one of the sailors picked up the armed flare, threw it into the magazine locker, and closed the door. Some 2.75-inch rocket warheads loaded with Composition B were stowed in the locker. Shortly after the flare ignited in the locker, the intense heat caused a 2.75 rocket warhead in the locker to detonate, sending fire and smoke into the hangar bay. This was followed by a second warhead explosion that spread fire throughout the entire hangar deck and in the forward portion of the ship. Finally, heat caused a liquid oxygen tank to explode. Before the fires were completely under control, 44 sailors had died (43 from asphyxiation and one from burns) and 156 had been injured. Beside the material damage to the ship, two helicopters and an A-4E aircraft were destroyed and three A-4E aircraft were damaged. The estimated cost of the material damage was $11 million. LTJG Siebe died as a result of the fires.”

The 40th Reunion Yearbook: Jerry came to USNA from Mascoutah, IL after completing a year at the Illinois Institute of Technology on a Navy Scholarship.

A member of the 17th Company, he was a gymnast who performed outstandingly on the side horse. He was also sports editor of The Splinter

After graduation, Jerry entered flight training at Pensacola, FL and on 26 December 1964 he married Becky Hulliung.

Upon earning his wings of gold, he was assigned to Helicopter Squadron One in San Diego. He left for the Tonkin Gulf in May 1966 and was flying from the USS ORISKANY. Jerry, along with 43 other souls, lost his life in the ORISKANY Fire on October 26, 1966.

Regarding future memorialization’s, you asked, we provide! The following table comprises the anticipated dates and comment submittal deadlines for memorializing the remaining classmates on “The Wall.”

Classmate Shipmate Issue Input Deadline

Jerry Hogan May ’24 20 Feb 2024

Robin Cassell June ’24 25 March 2024

Barry Hooper July-Aug ’24 25 May 2024

Geofrey Shumway Oct ’24 25 July 2024

William Griffis Nov-Dec ’24 20 Sept 2024

Charles Parish Jan-Feb ’25 20 Nov 2024

Michel Collins Mar-April ’25 20 Jan 2025

Anyone desiring to submit remembrances, sea stories, etc., must submit them prior to the deadline date to be included.

John Reiersen, sent in a couple of very unique photos.

John explains: “As a plebe, I ran onto the field after that game and retrieved it. As you may recall, the goal posts back then were wooden.”

“I had been saving it these past 60 years, packed in a box which took it to the many places I called home since then. Recently, I decided to have it mounted. Notably, it was Joe Bellino’s last Army-Navy game, and soon thereafter he won the Heisman Trophy.”

Received a nice note from Ray Michelini noting the Tidewater Virginia’s Class Chapter (TW-64) celebrated its 15th Anniversary with a special joint luncheon with wives and guests on 3 November at Bubba’s Seafood Restaurant in Virginia Beach, their standard meeting place. Founded by Bill Carson [deceased] and George Christian during the summer of 2008, the Chapter was officially established by the Class Board of Directors on 11 November 2008. Since then, with the exception of the COVID period, the Chapter’s been meeting bi-monthly from September to May each year. They also have an annual joint luncheon with wives and guests.

Present at this special luncheon occasion [starting at left table and CW] were Ray and Sue, Ronnie and Marcus Friedman, Eleanor and Pete Taylor, Linda and Phil Boyer, Tom McFeely, Ann and George Christian. On the other table, Joan and Butch Christie, Suzanne and Joe Prueher, Stu Johnson, Dick Robbins, Mike Kenslow, Andy Murphy, as well as Bobbi and Al Krekich Fair winds and a quartering sea, classmates.

John proudly holding his goal post “splinter” plaque

Gerald W. Siebe, LTJG USN Panel 11E, Line 115

’64: A mounted piece of the 1963 Army-Navy game goal post

’64: The Tidewater Gang and guests at their 15th

’65

Life Membership: 65%

Donor Participation: 53.93%

Pres: CAPT Jim Minderlein, USN (Ret.) p: 410-841-6644; e: jimm65@verizon.net

Corr Sec’y: CDR Dave Anderson, USN (Ret.) 1600 Ala Moana Blvd. #2208, Honolulu, HI 96815 c: 816-621-0878

e: daveand65@me.com; daveand65@earthlink.net

Class of 1965 Home Page: http://www.daveand65.com/USNA65/ https://daveand65.wixsite.com/usna65photos

Alas, we lost five great classmates - Bob Sermier, Eric Morrisette, Gil Crouse, Doug Powell and Ed Merino - since the last column submission. Faced with the word count limitations for this submission, the following reports of their passings – all by Jim Minderlein in December and January – will be horribly short. Please, please check out Last Call for details on the lives and careers of these stalwart c’mates.

First One - Doug Powell passed away on 13 September. I was notified in early January by Mike Epprecht who received a Christmas card from Doug’s wife, Pat, that he had a massive stroke on 03 July and died two months later. Mike says that Pat sounds strong and is currently visiting her daughter. Her e-mail is powell17@gmail.com and cell is 303-9169434. Doug graduated from the 12th Company and is the 6th deceased of 26 graduates from that Company. He is buried in the Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado.

Second one – Eric Morrisette passed on 06 December. Eric followed his career-Navy father into the Naval Academy where his time was spent in hard study and elaborate pranks. After graduating, he met his beloved wife and adventure partner, Janice. They were married for 56 years and is survived by Janice, two daughters and two grandchildren. He pursued his hobbies with a relentless desire to learn and improve, whether it was sailing, long-distance cycling, sudoku, gardening, bridge, lobstering, or bird watching. His love of nature was infectious. Eric worked at Factory Mutual Insurance for 30 years and eventually ran his own ATM company.

Third one – Bob Sermier passed on 10 December, with Forrest Horton getting the news of his roomie’s death from Bob’s widow, Martha. He’d had years facing a variety of health problems, but Bob had persevered. Following his service in the Submarine Nuclear Power Program, Bob tackled Harvard Business School before joining the US Department of Health, Education & Welfare and subsequently the New York Department of Health & Human Services. He went on to become a professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in NY where his results counseling graduate students are legendary.

Fourth one – Gil Crouse passed on 12 December. Jim was unable to legally publish

his obituary without the funeral home’s permission. The Alumni Association is working on obtaining that and it will likely be part of Last Call. Gil graduated from the 23rd Company and is the 6th deceased of 20 graduates.

Fifth one - Edward Bradley Merino passed on 23 December. He was surrounded by his immediate family, after battling idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis for over five years. Ed roomed with Thel Hooks in the 5th Company during Youngster year and left us sometime after that before graduation. I spoke with Skip Orr and he said that Ed continued to be a faithful attendee at all of the ’63 Football Team reunions since then.

On to some happier news.

From Phil Ferrara, 22 Oct:

M On Thursday, October 19 many ’65ers attended a reception for several hundred alumni at the new Alumni Center. It’s an absolutely beautiful new facility, and we look forward to a future ’65 event in there. In the photo are Sted and Robin Garber, Linda and Phil Ferrara and Don Brown

On 01 Nov, twenty-one assembled for the Class of ’65 First Wednesday lunch at McGarvey’s Saloon. In attendance were Ed Linz, Jim Minderlein, Skip Orr, Ryan Moore (son of Skip Moore), Phil Ferrara, Bob Sullivan, Frank Peterson, Sonny Harrison, Bob Andretta, Carter Refo, Mike Luecke, Moke DeMatta, Larry Eggert, Bob Green, Fred Vogel, Jim Stark, Charlie Morrison, John Collins, Skip Shealy, Conrad Best and Sted Garber. Everyone enjoyed the opportunity to welcome and chat with Ryan during the lunch and for Ryan to join his dad’s classmates and friends. During lunch Jim Minderlein and Skip Orr presented Ed Linz with the Class of 1965 plaque in recognition of Ed’s great service to the Class in chronicling the Vietnam War history of the Class of 1965.

REGISTER OF ALUMNI 2024

PCI, our trusted partner will be contacting alumni through a mailed post card and email. They will verify that your rank, address, phone number and email are up-to-date Check out the link for information. Shop - Register of Alumni - www.usna.com

From Phil Ferrara, 14 Nov

M Here’s a photo from last weekend’s activities. A tailgate, then the football game against The University of Alabama at Birmingham with a parachute jump and march-on and flyover, and the halftime with about 500 cheerleaders performing.

From Denny Neutze, 23 Nov

M Two years ago today, on Thanksgiving, our daughter, Dana, gave birth to our new grand baby with the lovely name “Navy”. Here are Dana and Navy celebrating Navy’s birthday. Shopping in the Midshipman Store has never been so much fun!

From Pete Lumianski, 26 Nov

M Great pic of the Lumi clan at Thanksgiving.

M Here’s the Bay Area ’65ers gathered to watch the Army-Navy Game. Left to right: Ron Wecht, Ed McCann, Rick Rickard, Chip Allen, Bob Stanfield. Rick, my ol’ Plebe Year Roomie, is still involved to some degree in his volunteer work with the East Bay Regional Park District and with bicycle advocacy, Rick’s formal roles have wound down over the last several years, leaving him more free time for his favorite activity — bike riding, including doing some on a 2023 visit to Kauai.

From Bob Zitzewitz and Jim Roorbach, 04 Jan

M Although the game did not turn out as we wished, Jim Roorbach threw a great potluck party that included many classes (42 guests) ’65 was represented by Jim Roorbach, Judie Zitzewitz, Dave and Marion Schlesinger, Pat and Skip MacAlexander, Larry and Judy McMurray and Bill and Gayle Hancock.

It was great to see everyone!

The Excel version of our Class Directory that our c’mate, Bull Durham, constructed and lovingly maintained for 20+ years, has been recently updated. I’ve taken over this task since 2017. If anyone wants a copy, just email me.

And I have a bunch of digital images of USNA and ’65 graphic – crests, Bill the Goat, and others. Lemme know if you’d like any. They’re great for ordering merchandise online.

And thazzit for this month. Aloha, Dave

’66

Life Membership: 66% Donor Participation: 30.45%

Pres: VADM John “Scott” Redd, USN (Ret.)

Sec’y: CDR Mike Baird, USN (Ret.) 10439 Rivington Ct., Lone Tree, CO 80124 e: mike.baird@1966.usna.com

Website: www.usna66.org

Spring has finally sprung, though in Colorado that can be difficult to discern. I hope everyone is thawing from winter. I have several events to report so let’s get to it.

Carl McCullough provided the following summary of the Navy UNC Charlotte football game and several pics of the events he cites.

M “We had a nice turnout for Navy’s first-ever game against UNC Charlotte, a new addition to the American Athletic Conference. It began as a mini reunion of 19th and 28th Company mates and expanded to include others. Some of the guests arrived in the Charlotte area on Wednesday, 11 October, but our big gatherings began Friday, 13 October, at our house. An afternoon and evening gathering included Sarah and Jerry Hodge, Jo Ann and Garry Zopf, Karen and Rich Muller, Frank Bryant, and his friend Roseanne Sullivan, Beth and Ted Smyth, Bill Gaffney, Kay Earhart, Tom Doyle, and our 14th/21st Company friends, Mary Ann and Carl Fulford, and Jane and Sam Marrone

Saturday morning, we got together with Karen and Bobby Charles and about 500 other Navy faithful at the tailgate party, and there was also a spotting of Jane and Neil Brennan Our football team showed up at halftime and made the day even more worthwhile, defeating UNCC 14-0.

Sunday afternoon, most of us met at a beautiful rental home on Lake Wylie for an 80th birthday bash orchestrated by JoAnn Zopf. The catered dinner, beginning with scrumptious appetizers, included Beef Wellington and Creme Brule and exceptional wine. Included there, in addition to Zopfs and McCulloughs, were Mullers, Hodges, Kay Earhart, Bill Gaffney, Tom Doyle, Frank Bryant, and Roseanne Sullivan. Bob Golden joined us by phone as planning began for Navy’s return visit in two years. We hope to see more of you, next time.”

Thanks Carl. Great writeup.

80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Desi and John Posoli hosted an Army-Navy party in Annapolis. Shown nearby are the Classmates attending and spouses.

From Rick Rickard, 09 Dec

From Ted Nanz, 26 Dec

M Photo attached from Christmas dinner with wife, Meliza, daughters in the back from Virginia Commonwealth University, James Madison University, and a local high school.

CLASSMATES AT UNCC FOOTBALL GATHERING

GATHERING AT THE MUCULLOUGH’S

Charlie Jones provide the following writeup and photo of the final 2023 season football tailgaters.

Attendees at the ’66 ’16 football tailgate for the Navy-ECU football game on 18 November (alphabetical by last name): Roland Blocksom with daughter Jen Blocksom, Neil Brennan, Kacky and Rodger Carter, Susan Reardon and Jack Drake, Betty and Tom Eubanks, Dervilla and Scott Gordo, Jackie and Tom Grim, Nancy Brown and Pete Hesser,  Don Jackson, Ginny and Charlie Jone, Nancy and Jim Long, and guest Sylvia Deangelo, Kathy Madaleno, Jane and Sam Marrone, Kathy and Robert Percival, Desi and John Posoli,  Rusty Rawson, Lindsey Adams Riddick ’16 with  Justin Riddick ’13 and baby Layla Liddick,  Lynne and Ace Sarich, Dominique and Andre Simonpietri,  Hank Strickland, Karen and Chuc,  Charlie Votava, and  Pete Wright

Charlie Votava provided the following summary and photos to document the events of the Leadership Awards aboard GONZALEZ

(DDG-66).

Thursday, 26 October, Classmate RADM John Sigler, USN (Ret.) presented our USNA Class of 1966 Leadership Awards to ET1 (SW) Dylan Wilkins and LT Riley Brosnan on board GONZALEZ (DDG-66) at Naval Station, Norfolk, VA. Classmates present at the ceremony were Tony Franzitta, Chuck Grutzius, Rob Ploeger, Hank Strickland, and Charlie Votava.

A summary of the award citations recognized: ET1 Wilkins, the Leading Petty Officer in the Combat Electronics Division, employed his broad multifaceted management experience and superior technical skills to direct the Combat System and Anti-Terrorism teams in successful completion of the numerous system readiness certifications and team performance evaluations, as well as overseeing 20,000 equipment maintenance actions during the past year.

Lieutenant Brosnan, the Damage Control

Assistant and Repair Division Officer, led his division and ship’s crew through successful completion of: Damage Control Industrial Certification; the Damage Control Material Assessment; the Light Off Assessment; Seven, no-notice Atlantic Surface Forces Fire Safety Assessments, and two, no-discrepancy NAVSEA Chapter 12 Industrial Firefighting drills.

Following the awards presentation, RADM Sigler thanked CDR Erik Reynolds and the crew for their gracious hospitality and the opportunity to recognize superior performers. In addition, he thanked the CO and crew for the opportunity for our Class to maintain the relationship with them and the hull number which is a memorial to the many Classmates who died in the Vietnam War. RADM Sigler closed his remarks with some points on leadership: one - Make note of the best demonstrations of leadership in your leaders; second, Seek opportunities and be ready to accept leadership positions; and third, Employ those best leadership practices and don’t take yourself seriously while in those leadership positions.

Following the ceremony, ’66 Classmates enjoyed lunch in the GONZALEZ wardroom with LT Brosnan and ET1 Wilkins.

Wednesday, 25 October, the evening before the GONZALEZ on-board ceremony, Classmates; Linda and Tony Franzitta, Tom Martin, Peggy and Charlie Pfeiffer, Joyce and Rob Ploeger, Margie and Jim Powell, Hank Strickland, and Sharon and Charlie Votava, gathered on the deck at Villa Votava welcoming Gail and John Sigler (back) to Virginia Beach. The pot-luck social was an immense success due to my spouse’s attention to the menu. Thanks Charlie. Excellent job.

Sadly, I report the death of Classmates Don Colley (34th Co.) on 19 November 2023, John Hoddy (1st Co.) on 23 November 2023, Doug May (31st Co) in December 2023, and Jim Coons (15th Co) on 13 December 2023. Please keep their families in your prayers.

In closing, I remind you to make frequent visits to our Class web site, usna66.org. The articles in Shipmate are limited to 2,000 words. Pictures can count from 50 to 250 words against the word limit, depending on how much space they take up in a column. Our web site has more detail and pictures of items I present. In addition, it has information on Class events; past, present, and future. Finally, thanks to all who provided input for this issue. Until May,—All the best—Mike!!!

’66: 2023 ARMY-NAVY PARTY CLASSMATES

’66: 2023 ARMY-NAVY PARTY CLASSMATES AND LADIES

’66: ECU GAME TAILGATERS

’67

Life Membership: 77%

Donor Participation: 42.26%

Pres: CDR David E. Church, USN (Ret.)

Sec’y: LtCol Jim McNeece, USMC (Ret.) 1603 John Worthington Way, Crownsville, MD 21032 p: 410-849-3423; e: scribe67@gmail.com

I’m writing in the third week of January. My last column was submitted two months back, so there’s some catching up to be done. Let’s get to it.

We start with a death that hits hard. Chris Gates passed away peacefully on 26 December 2023, but at this time I have little information. He is survived by Sherry, his wife, and three children: Rusty, Kim, and Jeremy Gates ’00. Jeremy said “bless him, he made it through Christmas, avoided our anniversary tomorrow and his grandson’s birthday the next day. Only a good Naval Aviator could pick up the 3 wire that well.” In the words of Dave Church, “the most contagious laugh ever heard is silenced.” We’ll send out information as we get it.

Cliff Brahmstadt and Dick Collins passed the word that Fred Geiger passed away on 20 December 2023 in Reading, PA. Fred graduated with a degree in nuclear engineer-

ing, and after leaving the Navy, he joined Commonwealth Edison, working for them for almost 30 years as an operating engineer and database developer. After retirement from Commonwealth Edison he continued developing databases elsewhere and as a volunteer in management positions. Fred is survived by his daughter Elise, his son Ian, his wife Tracy of Madison, WI, and four grandchildren. His obituary can be found at https://rb.gy/ldvzr7. Memorial gifts may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at https://rb.gy/k62ibo.

Paul Schissler’s wife Patty died on 11 December 2023. She was born in Rhode Island in 1944 and met Paul in 1967. They married in November of 1968. They have a daughter, Joanne, and two sons, Paul and Thomas, though Thomas died at the age of three. She supported Paul during his career in the Navy and afterward, spending two years with him in Greece supporting Olympic security. Her obituary may be found at https://rb.gy/uoy5dd. Memorial gifts may be made to Planned Parenthood at https:// shorturl.at/akvGU. Patty will be interred at the USNA Columbarium at a later date.

Pleasant Larry (Murph) Murphy passed away on January 9, 2024 after a short battle with MDS. Murph was a Napster, oarsman, member of the 6th battalion and a fun loving mid. He left early in our Second Class year and

then completed his education and was ordained as an Episcopal priest. He headed several churches and joined the Naval Reserve as a chaplain, deploying to many crisis locations. He also served as a volunteer chaplain for the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team. Larry was a lifelong active member of the Class, attending reunions and serving as clergy at our memorial services. He leaves behind a son and daughter and his wife Susan. She resides at 167 County Rd 1949, Yantis TX 75497.

We got this from Dick Branum:

M Just found this out today and Ned Laskowski wanted you all to know that his oldest son Chris unexpectedly passed away at home in Washington DC on 7 January 2024. Ned and family are still waiting to learn the cause of his death. A beautiful celebration of life service was held 14 January 2024 at the historic New York Ave Presbyterian Church in Washington attended by hundreds of Chris’s friends, co-workers and D.C. Council dignitaries. Fortunately, OB, Peggy, and I were able to attend and be there for Ned and Pam. Chris’s obituary can be found at https://rb.gy/2bt56f.

Craig LaGrone died on 11 November 2023 in Norman, OK after collapsing while walking to a football game. He was born in 1943 and after attending New Mexico Military Academy, joined us at USNA. He ran track and played football (alongside Dave Church on the Plebe team) at Navy. He left USNA for the University of Tulsa to become a math and science teacher and coach of football, track, and soccer. He and his first wife, Linda, had three children. He married again to Ellen in 1999, and they continued to live in Tulsa where they became fast friends with Diana and Gary Tabbert. Craig is survived by Ellen, son Craig, Jr, daughters Cammie and Canon, and six grandchildren. Memorial gifts may be made to First Methodist Church Tulsa for Gathering Hearts for Honduras (tulsafmc.org) or Folds of Honor which provides scholarships to families of fallen or disabled veterans (foldsofhonor.org).

Charles Hyatt King III, 80, of Richardson, Texas passed away November 29, 2023. He left USNA in April 1967 and after serving in the Navy for six years joined IBM to start his technical career. He married Marjorie in 1969 and moved several times, eventually starting his own company providing IT consulting and education to large corporate clients in the USA and Canada and virtually to Asia. He is survived by Marjorie and two daughters, Jodi and Heather. He is to be interred in the Veterans’ Cemetery in Preston, MN in the spring of 2024.

Got this image from Ted Verdery taken at the Navy-SMU game. He said they didn’t let the game spoil a Roomie Reunion! In the photo are: Sandy and Ted Verdery, Sally and John Crouse. Jennie and Jon Holzapfel and Lynda and Reb Hester

’66: CLASSMATES AT THE AWARD CEREMONY

’66: GATHERING AT VILLA VOTAVA

From Paul McConnell: a great picture of a picture!

M I took my family of 24 to the game and the grandkids were on CBSSports and twice on the stadium Jumbotron Other than the final score the atmospherics at Gillette were absolutely first class . We’ll get them next year…… Beat Army!

Vince Putiri agrees with Paul’s assessment of the game site:

M Great day for my family who thoroughly enjoyed their “Navy” experience at Gillette Stadium. They loved the flyover, the parachute teams the pageantry—all of it. The tailgate at Bar Louie was great so they got to see the true Navy spirit and enjoyed meeting both Navy and Army folks. We ended up at Bar Louie again after the game so we did not spend hours in traffic, but instead enjoyed the great Army Game environment.

The Boston area was a great location. West Coast Legends watch party courtesy of Bob Lang once again:

M Here’s the West Coast Legends at the watch party 9 December 2023. Twenty ’67 classmates, plus wives and friends gathered at Norm Hapke’s mountaintop residence in La Mesa, CA (San Diego) to watch the game.

L - R: Bob Lang, Pete Burggren, Buddy Barnes, Steve Fisk, Curt Dose, Brad Beaver, Bruce Wright, Rich McNeal, Warren Millard, Bob Ryan, Jack Feehan, “Soup” Campbell, Tim Hoffman, Pete Phelps, Bill Stedfield, Dick Glasow, Gordon Pettus, Norm Hapke, Steve Andres, Paul Ward.

Here’s a note from Ed Kerins with a promise I’ll hold him to:

M 31st Company is preparing for a “mini reunion” in New Orleans in early March. 13 of our group will be attending, along with wives.

We plan on spending a day at the WWII museum. This will be our second 31st Company gathering, the first in San Antonio 2 and a half years ago. I am glad to report that all of us are relatively healthy. I heard from Buddy Walker a short while ago, who reported he had a bout with cancer last year and came out on top. It takes a tough guy to last as long as we have. I will send you photos late in March when we return. I’ll be looking for those pictures, Ed! Bill Belden sent this note with a link. Take a look at it:

M A couple of months ago, I came across a website called Veterans Legacy Memorial – run by the VA. I couldn’t find any info on Hal Andersen, so I to wrote them. They responded with a link to his page, and on Hal’s page is an opportunity to add

Here’s the link Bill turned up. If you’re able, leave a tribute or memory: https://shorturl.at/jqvAW.

And I’m scratching the bottom of the mailbag so that’s all there is. We’ve actually seen some winter outside here in Maryland, but it hasn’t been too bad. I know some of you have had worse. Everybody take care, and send me some good stuff for my column. If you don’t, all you’re likely to get next time is the pictures Ed Kerins said he’d send and whatever else I can make up.

…That’s it...Goodnight!...Jim

’68

Life Membership: 62%

Donor Participation: 26.93%

Pres: CAPT Gary A. Storm, USN (Ret.) 2725 Cabernet Ln., Annapolis, MD 21401 p: 410-757-7156; c: 443-924-1130; e: gastorm@verizon.net

Corr Sec’y: CAPT Gordon I. Peterson, USN (Ret.) 5200 Brittany Dr., S., Apt. #102, St. Petersburg, FL 33715 p: 703-282-3411; e: gpeters621@aol.com

Website: www.usna68.com

Congratulations to Denny Blair for his richly deserved selection as a 2024 USNA Distinguished Graduate. This year’s awards will be presented Friday, 22 March, at 4:30 p.m. in Alumni Hall. Denny’s lifetime of service and distinguished achievement during his 34-year Navy career included command of the U.S. Pacific Command and other high-level assignments, notably at the White House, the Joint Staff in the Pentagon, and the National Security Council. Following retirement in 2002 he was the president of the Institute for Defense Analyses, then returned to government service as the third Director of National Intelligence. In recent years he has played leadership roles in non-profit organizations addressing longstanding national security challenges.

Following the Alumni Association’s December announcement, Denny had this to say: “The Distinguished Graduate Award is much more than personal recognition. In every assignment over the past 55 years there have been classmates on the team. The four years in

Roommates and their friends

’67: All those McConnells on the Jumbotron!

’67: The Legends at Hapke’s

Denny Blair

Annapolis form bonds that are forever. So, the award is for all of us.”

Hearty congratulations as well to Charlie Bolden! The National Maritime Historical Society will present its 2024 Distinguished Service Award to him at its awards dinner 18 April at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. This distinctive award recognizes Charlie’s remarkable career as a U.S. Marine aviator and general officer, astronaut, and NASA Administrator. “Through these awards,” the Society stated, “we demonstrate that positive strides can be made in preserving our important maritime heritage and encourage others to follow the example set by our honorees.” The awards dinner is open to all. Visit the society’s website at https://seahistory.org/washington 2024/ for additional information and a link to register.

Rick Buchanan reports that Rick Miller’s son, Scott, was on the Navy flag list in January for appointment to rear admiral (lower half). Congratulations! “He was CO of the carrier CARL VINSON, an F-18 pilot, and is a USNA Class of 1994 graduate,” Rick B said. Scott is currently serving as branch head for carriers in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations. Just weeks before our 55th reunion, Treanne and Rick were with Scott aboard VINSON in San Diego for a Family Day cruise.

Throughout his decades-long career coaching football, Nick Metrokotsas has sought to develop positive character traits in his players on and off the field. He also encourages coaches to emphasize character building in their athletic programs. Nick’s book Coaching With P.R.I.D.E. (perseverance, respect, integrity, desire, and enthusiasm) explains why and how. Good sportsmanship—treating opposing players and others with respect—figures significantly in this regard. Most recently, Nick elaborated on its importance in an article aimed at the coaching profession published in Coach & A.D. magazine’s February edition. He emphasized why character building must take place first if you expect an athlete to understand and adhere to sportsmanship rules. “That’s what I call proactive coaching,” Nick states in the article.

During the lead up to the Army-Navy game in Foxborough, MA, Lenny Mrozak reported

that 13th Company midshipmen continued the tradition of running the game ball from Annapolis to the site of the game—despite the distance of 450 miles being more than double its normal length. “I was able to join a group of alumni and the mids’ parents to welcome the runners at a planned stop at a grammar school in Whippany, NJ,” Lenny said. “The group was larger than expected as we gathered pre-0700 in anticipation of their estimated arrival. As the runners approached, they were met with smiles and shouts of GO Navy .... and BEAT Army! Amazingly, the mids looked no worse for wear.” The midshipmen alternated running many of the nine-to-10-mile legs.

In early December, Margo and John McKay traveled to El Salvador. John testified in the ongoing trial for the murder of four Dutch journalists in March 1982 by Salvadoran Army soldiers during the Salvadoran Civil War. As the first U. S. Naval Attaché accredited to the Republic of El Salvador at the time, John was the first U. S. official to do an on-site investigation within four hours of the journalists’ deaths. The ultimate goal of the trial is to establish responsibility and adjudicate accountability.

After becoming professor emeritus at George Washington University in 2022, Clay Warren and his wife, Gitte, have embarked on “bucket list” trips. Last September they explored Greenland and Iceland. “Every day in Ilulissat was an adventure as we trekked across Greenlandic rocky terrain with a beautiful fiord as background,” Dave said. “In Iceland, we drove by Grindavik (site of a subsequent volcanic eruption) and stayed in a glass cottage that afforded awesome views of the Northern Lights. For those who are interested in such a trip, I’d recommend sooner rather than later as time rushes away like wild horses over the hills. Adding to my collection of words for cheers (begun plebe year), I now can offer “Kasuutta” to all!”

Clay

Cross-country and track & field athletes in our class joined alumni spanning many decades to honor Navy Coach Al Cantello following his death in January at the age of 92. Al was described as a “legend” as both an assistant and head coach during his 55-year career, a span that including 50 years as head coach for the men’s cross-country team. Jim Dare was one of six alumni who competed at the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials. Jim did so twice— in 1968 and again in 1972 when he qualified as an alternate for Team USA. Al had a profound influence on his athletes. “Al was my coach for the shot put during my four years on our indoor and outdoor T&F teams,” reflected Dick “Krulo” Krulis. “When I served at the Academy as an instructor (1983-1985), I worked with him. We became good friends. As a coach he taught me many lessons that served me well in my post-military career and proved most beneficial when dealing with my contemporaries. He was absolutely a fantastic coach. I will always cherish the time I spent with him.”

As the assistant track & field coach during our years at the Academy, Al primarily coached field events, but he also was attentive to runners. “He was my friend since 1964 and

Then-NASA Administrator Charlie Bolden testifying on Capitol Hill in 2010.

and Gitte Warren at Iceland’s Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

’68: Lenny Mrozak, sixth from left, with part of the large group who cheered midshipmen running the Army-Navy game ball to Foxborough, MA.

mentor since 1964,” said distance runner Paul Gaffney. “His admiration for midshipmen athletes was unwavering. His piercing analyses of attitudes, performances, tactics, and opposing teams led him to the NCAA Hall of Fame and made him the winningest coach over Army, ever.”

In closing, as I was finalizing this column for Shipmate, we learned that the 28th Company’s Dave Beard died on 20 January. Subsequent to the submission of the January-February column to Shipmate, the 32nd Company’s Denny Young died on 12 December and the 5th Company’s Bob Munsey on 8 December. May they rest in peace. Please see their entries in this or a future Last Call.

Dave Beard died while in hospice care in Pensacola. He excelled in academics, leadership, and athletics at the Academy as a first-set company commander, captain of our varsity squash team, and winning player on the tennis team. As a Marine aviator he flew F-4J’s and then Harriers. Following graduation from USN Test Pilot School, he served as an instructor at TPS. An ejection at high speed from a disabled aircraft resulted in serious injuries and medical retirement in 1981. Dave worked for Northrop Grumman for 25 years. For about half of that time he was responsible for managing its ethics program. Retiring from Northrop in 2006, he established an ethics speaking and consulting company. Dave is survived by his brother, Timothy, son Benjamin, and daughters Katie and Maggie. His funeral Mass was held 30 January, with interment following at Barrancas National Cemetery at Naval Air Station, Pensacola. Company mate Carl Gaines said it well: “I remember Dave as the embodiment of duty and honor, a paragon of the ideal military officer. Kind, Unmatched in character. One on whom you could rely without question. I am forever proud to call him a company-mate and Navy brother.”

Denny Young died 12 December at the Palo Alto VA Hospital in California after entering hospice care in early November following a long battle with cancer. Marty Gunther visited Denny three times during hospice care— including 9 December to watch the ArmyNavy game. Denny’s daughter, LCDR Brittany (Young) Tuttle ‘09, USNR, said, “One of my last favorite memories of him will be watching the Army-Navy game with him, Marty, and my brother, Chris. While Navy couldn’t pull out one last win for my dad, I know he was so proud to be a part of such a great organization and great class.” A non-graduating classmate owing to “a disagreement with the AC Board,” Denny had a career with United Airlines. Over the decades he remained very actively engaged with our class. Former Class President Joe Conway noted that Denny was our only nongraduating classmate who was voted as an “honorary classmate.” As Company mate Joe Sikes reflected, “The whole class will feel the hole in our reunions without Denny there.” Denny regularly contributed news for our

column describing visits with classmates. I dubbed him my “West Coast correspondent.” In addition to Brittany and Chris, Denny is survived by four sisters and his mother, Betty. His funeral was held 18 January in Honolulu, HI.

Bob Munsey died 8 December while hospitalized in Melbourne, FL. He enlisted in the Naval Reserve in high school in Norfolk, VA, and obtained a presidential nomination to the Academy. After graduation and initial sea duty, Bob attended Aircraft Maintenance School and was designated an aviation maintenance duty officer. Assignments on several aircraft carriers and shore tours followed including the OPNAV staff and the staff of Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic concluding with retirement as a captain. Bob retired in Virginia Beach, VA, with his wife, Rosemary, and three children. Later, following his wife’s death, he moved to Port Saint John, FL in 2003. During his remaining years, Bob enjoyed attending and volunteering at church, numerous hobbies, fishing, and restoring vintage aircraft at the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum in Titusville, FL. Bob is survived by his sons, Bill, Chad, and daughter, Kellye. Funeral services were held 15 December at Port Saint John, FL.

All the best and take care, Gordo

’69

Life Membership: 59%

Donor Participation: 29.26%

Pres: Steve Comiskey e: swcomiskey@gmail.com

Exec Vice Pres: Jim “Sandy” Sandberg

Corr Sec’y: Pat Stroop p: 410-279-4575; e: pstroop@hotmail.com

Sec’y: Dr. Steve Hudock p: 571-419-0290; e: shudock@1969.USNA.com

Treas: Ron Gumbert

4300 Summertime Ln., Helena, MT 59602 e: rongumbert@icloud.com

Website: www.usna69.org

Hello ’69! Spring is right around the corner! 2024 will graduate in 2 short months! Andy Rooney was right…life is like a roll of toilet paper…the closer you get to the end, the faster it goes!!

First things first: some of you who are alert may have noticed that the caption underneath our picture highlighting the Class of 1969

Mighty Fine Patio at the Fluegel Alumni Center in November-December might not have been correct. We meant to say that the following were in the picture: Todd Creekman, Lanny and Ethel Hunt, Owen and Suzanne McLean, Dan and Cindy Johnson, Jim and Marja Sandberg, and Stephen Leaman and Debbie Ainslie. And as a bonus, here is the picture again (taken in September when short sleeve shirts and open toe shoes were the preferred option. A Get-Out-of-Jail-Free card has been issued to each!

Here is a summary of our home football games from my bride, Mary: Six home games, four wins (three of them shutouts), lots of local and out of town Navy fans, good weather (except for having to temporarily evacuate the stands due to threatening storms!) - the 2023 Navy home football season has ended. Friday nights found the class of 1969 at Caliente Grill in Annapolis (kudos to Roxana, Raul, and Nelson!), Saturdays found us tailgating with the class of 1984 before going into the stadium, Saturday nights having dinner with classmates, and Sundays enjoying brunch at the Eastport Yacht Club (thanks, Al and Aida Cipriani!). We were always, always, always surrounded by great friends and family members, active duty and retired Navy and Marines, amazing food and drinks, and of course the Brigade, which is why we do this year after year. Has USNA changed in the years since ‘69 and ‘84 graduated? Yes, of course, but our midshipmen are still among the best of the best and America should be extremely proud. Now...BEAT ARMY!!!! NB: Well, as we now know, that did not happen this year in the Great Northeast, but we get another chance at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland next year!

From Todd Creekman:

M We’ve all heard the stories of Naval Academy rings found and returned in unusual circumstances.

Recently a variation of that story emerged concerning a Class of 1969 mug, apparently lost 50 years ago and returned in November 2023 to its owner, Brad Beall. The saga, still a bit shrouded in mystery, goes like this: during youngster year, 1st company

’69: Class of 1969

Mighty Fine Patio at the Fluegel Alumni Center

Brad at Beat Army watch party with his returned mug

displayed a logo in its wardroom featuring a strange “thumbs down” character designed by ’69 classmate Jack Bailey. Sometime that year we commissioned mugs to be made featuring that logo (with thumbs up!) on one side and our class crest and name of our choice on the reverse. Some of us chose to get two mugs made, with our own names on both, or the name of a father or grandfather on one, or the name of a girlfriend! In Brad’s case, he got two with “Brad” under the class crest, and at some point, must have gifted one to a friend, who promptly lost (or ditched!) that mug on a Long Island, NY beach where it was found by a passer-by sometime later. That individual held on to the mug for decades, and only recently his brother sought to locate the mug’s owner. The ’69 crest and “Brad” label were the clues, and this individual, consulting our class website, reached out to corresponding secretary Pat Stroop for help. Within a short period, the mug, relatively intact, was returned to a perplexed Brad, who can’t quite recall how the mug may have come to be lost on that beach (though Brad is a New Yorker and spent time at local beaches in his younger years). A quick survey of other 1st/25th Company classmates reveals that many still have one or more of these mugs proudly displayed at home; some re-acquiring their second mug after the death of the relative to whom it had been presented many years ago. And some of us still have an original mug with a girlfriend’s name embossed below the crest and can only assume a companion mug is out there somewhere! Perhaps that former girlfriend has discarded that mug too, and we can expect to be treated to another found mug saga someday!

From Doug Bishop:

M The Calvert Group of ’69 held its annual Northern Michigan Outing in Traverse, Michigan in early August. All enjoyed four days of golf and frivolity. See the picture above of the group.

From 15th Company:

M Chris Miller, nephew of our deceased classmate George Foote (tragically lost in a car

accident in 1974), recently wrote Todd Creekman and asked if he could put him in touch with any classmate who had stories to share about George so that he could include them in a family history project. Led by Dennis Bussey and Nestor White, the stories the guys came up with were humorous, fantastic and suitable for sharing! Apparently, George spent a lot of his free time at St John’s with some of his pals plus he had some weird study habits! Gratitude from George’s nephew, Chris: “What I am sure about is George was a kind person who was incredibly smart and not easily

defined. Your emails helped to confirm this for me and I am grateful.” Bravo Zulu 15!

From Dennis Bussey:

M Harold Armet drove down to Virginia from New York to join me for a couple days of local fun and my 7 December presentation. Below is a picture of a report on the day’s events the next day in the Richmond newspaper.

From Tom Schram:

M This past fall Betsy and I traveled east to see our daughter and along the way we managed to catch up with Carole and Dave Ehemann along with Jan Alfieri (Paul’s widow) for dinner. We were in the 23rd Company together. Dave was the SENIOR member of the company since he had prior service!

Seated: Betsy Schram, Dave Ehemann, Carole Ehemann; standing: Jan Alfieri and Tom Schram

’69: Calvert Group at A Ga Ming Sundance

Then about six weeks later, Betsy and I caught up with Tom and Karen Pitman, also of the 23rd Company and a Marine Colonel, USMCR, (Retired).

Tom and Karen Pitman with Tom and Betsy Schram

We are all looking forward to the 55th reunion next year and seeing classmates and company mates from the famous 23rd. ’69 has another author! What follows is from Randy Brooks (email RBrooks47@ sc.rr.com)

M Just wanted to let you know that my book The Jumpin’ Joey: Life and Challenge on an Iconic Old Tin Can is now available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. Be sure you type Jumpin’ with an apostrophe. The Jumpin’ Joey is about the first ship Randy served on as chief engineer before he switched over to submarines for the remainder of his naval career. The book has something for every reader: a studied analysis of mid-twentieth century geopolitical and military history, a rigorous technical exposition on to keep a “Tin Can” Navy destroyer up to speed and mission-ready, and reflections by a freshly minted naval officer learning about life and leadership on his first seagoing assignment – something many of us can relate to!

I send along this email from our class president, Steve Comiskey, about the Honor Our Fallen Heroes on 11 November. The email summarizes all that happened that weekend and originated from the Point of Contact at the Alumni Association. I encourage you to read it all the way through and even click on the attachments. If you would like to receive the message by email, please let me know (my email address is in the column header).

M Dear Friends and Shipmates,

It has been just over one month since our memorable day together on Veterans Day, 11 November 2023, honoring the 36 fallen heroes at the 11th annual Honor Our Fallen Heroes event in Annapolis. In that time, we have been blessed with reflections and feedback from many of you – thank you for sharing those with us.

One of those reflections stands out – this LinkedIn post <https://www.linkedin.com /posts/philipncampbell_dear-frank-it-hasbeen-a-long-time-my-friend-activity7129898949376667648-OJHC?utm_source= share&utm_medium=member_desktop> from

Phil Campbell ’94, classmate of fallen hero LCDR Frank Wittwer ’94 and escort for Frank’s family on 11 November. We believe Phil captured the spirit of the day with grace.

Please enjoy these additional mementos of the day:

This video

<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trucdPQ 6QVs> created by our digital communications team, with Midshipman First Class Christie Linnard ’24 as guest videographer. Our special thanks to those gold star family members who shared their stories with us, in the video and throughout the day.

This photo album

<https://www.flickr.com/photos/unitedstatesnavalacademy/albums/72177720312647884 /> of the memorial service in Memorial Hall courtesy of the Naval Academy Public Affairs Office.

These photos and captions

<https://www.capitalgazette.com/2023/11/11 /usna-honor-our-fallen-heroes-photos/> of the memorial service courtesy of the Annapolis Capital Gazette.

From the Naval Academy Athletic Association, our stadium moment of silence <https://vimeo.com/883728574/aabef6b143> at the Navy-UAB football game.

The Alumni Association welcomes more of your feedback as we continue to refine our service to you and to our heroes. Please click <https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=N_cNngPxjUeOzb0wppYd808X bc9gvCdEhvSnOIjifktUQ0xINEFQVTROSTM4MzlNSVkxUFRTSEMwQy4u> to let us know what you found meaningful, and how we can improve. We hope you will join us in Annapolis for the 12th annual event in Fall 2024. We will be in touch in the late spring with our Save The Date. In the meantime, if you know another USNA gold star family you didn’t see at this year’s event, we would be most grateful for you to share the news with them about next year. Our goal is to touch every USNA gold star family and welcome them back to Annapolis every fall.

The Spring 2024 P-rade Schedule has just been released: The Naval Academy Brigade of Midshipmen will present formal dress parades on Worden Field this spring semester at the following dates and times:

Friday, April 12 at 4 p.m.

Friday, April 26 at 4 p.m. (Dedication Parade)

Thursday, May 23 at 11 a.m. (Color Parade)

I leave you with this final thought: Whenever I try to eat healthy, a chocolate bar looks at me and snickers! Non Sibi.

DONATE ONLINE

Support the Annual Academy Fund, visit usna.com/give

’70

Life Membership: 63%

Donor Participation: 28.70%

Pres: CDR Edmund E. Moore, USN (Ret.) e: edmund.moore@gmail.com

Sec’y: LTJG Gary Knight, USN (Ret.) 46141 Seabiscuit Ct., Lexington Park, MD 20653 e: cherica2@atlanticbb.net

Webmaster: Ed Moore e: edmund.moore@gmail.com

Website: http://1970.usnaclasses.com

Please join me in wishing our venerable scribe, Royal Connell, a speedy recovery from his health challenges which have laid him low and necessitated my temporary role as his replacement.

Dickie Powers (7th company) departed this earth in Revere, MA, on November 14, at 75, following a 2 and a half-year battle with lung cancer. Rhea Cosgrove of Lexington Park, MD, widow of Mike Cosgrove (8) (who passed in 2013) passed away on November 4 at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown, MD, after a courageous battle with cancer. Bill Nurthen (1), 74, of Ocean Township, NJ, passed peacefully and surrounded by his family, after a brief illness in October. Captain Nurthern’s 27-year navy career culminated with CO of the USS VALDEZ (FF-1096) and Major Command at Military Sealift Command Atlantic (MSCLANT) in Bayonne, NJ. He subsequently worked for the NY port authority where he survived the 9/11 attack. Sandra Davis, wife of Dave Davis (6) passed away on October 26 in Edinboro, PA.

This writing is during the hallowed Christmas season following another dispiriting loss to Army. We’ll get ‘em next year! As you know, each year before the big game, the members of the 13th company run a football from USNA to the stadium. This is a photo of one of those Mids taken with a 1970 former 13th company commander Gene Cuccaro

On December 13 we had the Second Class luncheon at the Army Navy Club of Fairfax. Thanks to Don Patterson for setting this up; the next one will be in Annapolis on March 15, hosted by Grant Thorpe

Another lunch for 36th company classmates is being held as a Dark Ages lunch on January 11, hosted by Carl Weiscopf

Carl is also setting up a mini-reunion for January in San Diego. The tentative itinerary is as follows:

MONDAY - 22 JAN 24: Check-in Best Western plus Hacienda Hotel in Old Town; dinner in Old Town

TUESDAY - 23 JAN 24: Lunch, Admiral Baker Golf Course club house; Wives shopping; visit Balboa Park; dinner Little Italy

WEDNESDAY - 24 JAN 24: Guided tour and lunch USS Midway Museum; visit Coronado and Hotel del Coronado; dinner in Coronado

MONDAY - 22 JAN 24: Check-in Best Western plus Hacienda Hotel in Old Town; dinner in Old Town

TUESDAY - 23 JAN 24: Lunch, Admiral Baker Golf Course club house; Wives shopping; visit Balboa Park; dinner Little Italy

WEDNESDAY - 24 JAN 24: Guided tour and lunch USS Midway Museum; visit Coronado and Hotel del Coronado; dinner in Coronado

THURSDAY, 25 JAN 24: San Diego Safari Park (TRUCK ADVENTURE); hike Torrey Pines Beach; dinner Gas Lamp Quarter

FRIDAY, 26 JAN 24: check out of hotel

Sounds great! Have fun, guys!

The 6th company had a mini-reunion at Dan Akerson’s home on the Eastern Shore. A portion of “Dirty Thirty” held a get together recently. Precipitated by Bill and Teri Jenkins coming to town to see their son Bill (Class of 2009) receive a PHD. Dianne and Brad Nemeth hosted an informal dinner for Wil and Dede Hollowell, David Oberholtzer and Stephanie Sontag (Stephanie was a classmate of Brad’s in law school) Rick and Jan Farley, and Mike Oliver (Lois had duty caring for grandchildren and could not attend).

Bob Viney writes:

M 24th company had a mini-reunion in Pensacola and this is an update on the submarine cold war memorial project. We have secured the $6.5 Million we need for the construction of the memorial, including the full size replica of the USS Cincinnati (SSN 693). They will break ground in March, 2024, and will have a ribbon cutting on April 11, 2025, which is the 125th anniversary of the submarine force. They are planning a public announcement event in February, after completing our appeal to major donors in Cincinnati. He will be sending out a link to the website in the next few weeks as soon as it is optimized for cell phones.

To update you on the planning for the 55th reunion in April 2025, my committee is presently planning for the following events: Headquarters is the Crown Plaza in Parole which will be accepting reservations next April. Thursday, April 24 will have maybe a golf tournament, and an opening reception at the Akerson Tower. Friday, April 25 will have a bike ride, a tour of the new Hopper Hall, maybe a walking tour of the Yard, a lunch at the new Alumni Hall featuring remarks by the Supt, attendance at a Spring P-rade, and a stand-up reception at the hotel (in lieu of a sit-down banquet). Saturday, April 26 features a class meeting, a memorial service, an Army-Navy lax game (if scheduled), a boat tour of Annapolis Harbor and surrounding waters, and perhaps company competitions. Sunday, April 27 will have a brunch at King Hall in the Yard. Stay tuned.

Our very own Bill and Mary Beth Barry (1) were on a float in The Rose Bowl Parade. They were on the “Core Kidney” float, the 13th float in the line of march. I hope you saw them.. Ring-A-Ding-Ding!

’70 get together of the San Diego contingent of Dirty Thirty

’70: 6th Company: Front Row: Tom Nichols, Hall Dillon, Paul Hurd, Jim Perry, Jim Sheppard and Jim Swoope; Back Row: Dave Davis, Ed Tempesta, Pete Patrick, Dan Kestly, Dan Akerson and Tom Wolfe

’70: Army Navy Club of Fairfax

’71

Life Membership: 62%

Donor Participation: 28.53%

Pres: CAPT Perry Martini, USN (Ret.) e: pmartini71@gmail.com

Sec’y: CAPT Mike Longworth, USN (Ret.) e: duke.longworth@1971.usna.com

Website: http://1971.usnaclasses.net/

It has been a busy winter! The Army-Navy game did not have the desired win by Navy. Next year is coming! GO NAVY! BEAT ARMY! Lots to report!

First up is a note from Kevin Dolan:

M “Duke, Lisa and I still live near Salt Lake City at the base of two awesome ski canyons. Our oldest son Daniel Dolan ’05 is a helicopter pilot, and a Commander attached to the Strike Group staff aboard USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71) out of San Diego. Here are two recent photos of Dan with me and Lisa on ROOSEVELT - just had to include the ’71 for our class. Our younger son, Matt, is an ’07 grad of Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy and now lives in Durango, CO.

“Lisa and I traveled to Scotland this September for two weeks and continue to spend much road time visiting our two sons. I’m still road biking, hiking, and skiing in Utah. BEAT ARMY! Kevin Dolan”

Sounds like you live where I hoped to live in retirement! Not much snow here in VA. Scotland is a beautiful country! As is the country-side around Durango!

Next up is a note from Phil Keuhlen:

M “Duke, 2023 has been a personal annus horribilis, and am happy to see it in the rearview mirror! I experienced multiple dissections in my aorta culminating in a 12+ hour surgery in July to replace my aortic arch with a graft, and another hospitalization from late November to mid-December to stent the thoracic section of my descending aorta.

“There is an element in this that may be of interest to classmates. Scientists have known for a long time that Thoracic Aorta Aneurysm & Dissection (TAAD) was associated with genetic abnormalities like Marfan’s Syndrome. Within the past decade they have noticed familial clusters of TAADs in families with no history of such syndromes and have identified

two genetic mutations associated with non-syndromic TAADs. I found that one side of my family has a TAAD cluster that traced back three generations. I tested negative for the two mutations, and positive for one that there isn’t enough data to confirm a causal link to date. My experience suggests the importance of knowing family medical history, not just your own.

“I have been blessed with rock star cardiac & vascular surgical teams at Swedish Hospital in Seattle, along with my family’s unwavering support and a monthly Zoom check in with my oldest and dearest 17th CO friends. They all know how much they have meant to me. But I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the prayers and support from classmates across the Class of ’71 and other years we overlapped with, particularly members of ’68, ’69 & ’72 Thank you ALL so much for your notes of support! Words fail to convey the depth of my gratitude.

“Two things sustained me this year. The first was the ‘don’t give up the ship’ attitude we developed in our Plebe year. The other was an international 50-meter outdoor smallbore benchrest competition sponsored by Eley.co.uk with over 200 registered competitors from around the world. Four preliminary matches led to invitations for the top 20 shooters to compete in a November 2023 Final match. I had just finished the first qualifying match when my annual screening indicated the degradation in my aorta. Throughout the year, shooting well enough to earn a finalist invitation became the organizing motivation for my cardiac rehab efforts.

“In November I received a finalist invitation. I started rising at 5 am each morning to check conditions before November turned blustery and cold. I shot a score of 1200 out of 1200 possible points, called shooting ’clean,’ and 90/150 tie breaker X’s. I was the last shooter to clean the final and finished 5th. Not too bad for an old fart with a tremor! Phil.”

What an incredible story! Thank you for sharing the TAAD issue, and your motivational 200-meter bench rest competition story. USNA certainly has many fine prayer warriors! Praise the Lord you received screenings and excellent care to get you through the surgery

then to full recovery. Keep me posted regarding follow-up care.

Here’s an Army-Navy game day report from John Ball:

M “Duke, Eight classmates attended the San Diego Chapter’s Army-Navy party at a crowded sports bar downtown. Thanks to Tom Hammons for encouraging our attendance this year. In the photo below from left to right are: Pat Doyle, Rick Smith, Jim Bryant, Jim Ward, John Ball, Steve Pelstring, and Tom Hammons Not pictured is Joe Anthony. We each enjoyed the camaraderie among us, which to me seems warmer each year. It sure wasn’t Navy’s best game yet it had that exciting but disappointing finish. Afterwards, it was thrilling to be among the hundreds of alumni standing tall, singing a rousing ’Navy Blue and Gold’ with a hearty ’Beat Army!’ All the best, John.”

Seems the San Diego ’71ers can be relied upon to win the party! Next year BEAT ARMY!

’71 Beat Army crew

Dick Enderly sent this note:

M “Hi Duke! I thought I would take a few minutes to pass along some news of a ’gathering of classmates’ on 14 December. It has been quite some time since this many ’71ers were together at the same place and time in Hampton Roads; but when as the event organizer, I invited David Poyer to travel down from his home on Virginia’s Eastern Shore to speak at our Chapter’s monthly Networking Breakfast (in actuality coffee, donuts and bagels), he drew a crowd of six classmates and about 20 other local alumni and fans of his work. Standing left to right in the photo are Steve Butkus,

Kevin Dolan with Daniel ’05 Lisa Dolan with Daniel ’05

’71: Dave Poyer with ’71ers and Lenore

71/71 CLASS NEWS

Mark Scharfe, Terry Foust, David’s wife Lenore Hart, David Poyer, Dick Enderly, Mike Cohen, and Ken Marks

“At the meeting Dave introduced and discussed his latest novel The Academy, which is the final chapter in the 22-book Dan Lenson series. Dan completes his most interesting and sometimes mind-boggling career as ’The Supe;’ and I would recommend that even if some have never read any of the previous 21 novels, many alumni, especially those of our vintage, will find The Academy to be an interesting and entertaining trip down Memory Lane as VADM Lenson periodically harkens back to his days as a 1/C Mid; and it also provides an opportunity to peek at some of the goings on behind the scenes at our Alma Mater. Oh….and some might be interested to know Dave has further broadened his horizons and some of his latest ventures include diving into the world of playwriting! All the best and Happy New Year to all! Dick.”

Thank you! Dave’s new book sounds quite entertaining, especially with the USNA setting!

Phil Williams sent this note:

M “Duke, Here is a photo of my placing the Marine Corps wreath as part of Wreaths Across America at our community’s 16 December ceremony.”

Glad you were available to represent the USMC!

Williams

Next

Both couples accepted; however, at the last-minute Trudy and Bob were not able to attend. Attached is a picture of the companymates along with Gene’s bride Jill. It was great catching up with them since they were not able to make our 50th reunion. With warmest regards, Bob.”

Nice coincidence! Now you have more people to visit in TX!

John Ball sent another update:

M “On Saturday, 20 January, 10 classmates gathered at the Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial to dedicate a plaque honoring the esteemed Class of 1971. This culminated months of planning by our class trustee Pat Doyle, who is a docent at the memorial atop Mount Soledad, with spectacular views over San Diego. Pat spearheaded the plaque project from concept to its dedication. Our Class Board of Trustees approved the design, but the plaque was financed with donations from 18 San Diego classmates. It is permanently mounted on a low wall at the memorial (behind the class flag in the group photo) and will serve as a lasting memory of the USNA Class of 1971 in San Diego.

“It was cloudy, cold, and windy. Pat Doyle and Tom Hammons provided remarks, wisely cut short due to the chill winds. Jim Bryant sported a kilt and hired a bagpiper and drummer to add pomp. A bugler played taps. After photos, a quorum adjourned to a warm lunch spot nearby. Yes, we just beat the rainstorm.

M “I think some of you know I have a son that went over to the dark side and graduated from West Point in 1995. He then married a West Point ’96 grad. This past week, he retired after 28 years in the Army. He and his family moved from Ft. Hood (now Ft. Cavazos) to Georgetown, TX. As it turns out, Georgetown is also the home of my company-mates Jill & Gene Baker and Trudy & Bob St. Germain. As a result, I invited both couples to my son’s retirement ceremony on 15 December.

“Classmates attending are pictured in the photo below (L to R): Jim Bryant, Pat Doyle, Russ Stahlak, John Ball, Bill Bashore,

Bill Nevitt, Tom Hammons, Steve Comer, Jim Ward, and Steve Pelstring. John.”

Many thanks to the San Diego contingent for the memorial plaque! Well Done, Classmates!

Sadly, three classmates passed away since my last column. NOTE: Full obituaries are in this issue of the column on our class website.

William “Bill” L. Hatcher passed away on 10 August 2023. Bill was born in Jacksonville, FL on 24 June 1949, and joined us on 28 June 1967. He was a Trident Scholar graduating with distinction. He was awarded a Burke Scholarship. He was a member of the Plebe Varsity Swim Team and swam on the varsity in 1969. Bill then focused on Lightweight Crew, lettering in ’70 and ’71.

Bill’s first duty was as 1st Lieutenant and Gunnery Officer in the newly commissioned USS W S SIMS (DE-1059), in Mayport, FL. He later assumed the duties of ASW Officer (ASWO) before detaching for Northwestern University in August 1973. After attaining his Ph.D. in electrical engineering, Bill completed the Surface Warfare Department Head course in Newport, RI; was assigned as Operations Officer (OPSO) in USS CONNOLE (FF-1056); and achieved Surface Warfare Officer qualification. Following his at-sea duty, Bill was the surface ship sonar test director at operational test and evaluation force (OPTEVFOR).

Bill transferred to the engineering duty officer (EDO) community in 1978, where he served for 18 years and rose to major program command. He retired after twenty-six years of distinguished service.

After Navy retirement, Bill was involved in research and development programs in distributed sensor border protection systems and the littoral combat ship.

He is survived by his partner, Lea McDaniel. Bill was a proud father of two children: David, the electrical power lead for an FA-18 program for NAVAIR, and Rachel, a Certified Nurse Assistant.

H. Leland “Lee” Whitfield passed away on Friday, 5 January in Atlanta, GA surrounded by his family. Lee was born in Hazleton, PA. He received a SECNAV appointment to USNA and subsequently graduated with an aeronautical

Phil

laying the Marine Corps wreath

is a note from Bob Capra:

Bob with Jill & Gene Baker

Bob and son, Kevin, Col US Army

’71 gathering at Mount Soledad

engineering major. Lee’s active duty included assignment to the USS HANCOCK during operations in Southeast Asia and the Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes.

Lee separated from the Navy in 1977. He then entered commercial real estate sales in San Francisco before moving his family to Atlanta, GA. His career with Coldwell Banker started as the Atlanta office manager and later regional business developer.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Ealy Whitfield, son H Andrew Whitfield (Lauren), sister Nancy Lockwood (Rob), stepson Chad Ealy, stepdaughter. A graveside was held on Friday, February 9, 2024, at the National Cemetery in Canton, GA.

Robert “Alan” Holbach on 11 January in Sanibel, FL, bid farewell to a life-well-lived with two of his favorite things by his side, his beloved wife Bonnie, and a generous pour of bourbon on ice. Alan spent plebe year with us and then joined the Navy serving for four years. Born in Houston, TX he spent his formative years in Glen Burnie, MD with his younger brothers Tom, Bill and Jim, younger sisters Mary Elizabeth and Sharon and his late parents, Betty and Al. He spent his last 38 years in Florida, where he worked as a County Administrator and Director of Public Works enjoying all the amenities Florida has to offer with Bonnie by his side as they enjoyed kayaking, fishing, and time in Sanibel.

Too soon, it is time to close. Please keep our classmates and their families in your prayers for good health, healing when needed, safety in travels, and strength to meet every challenge. Today is a gift - life is precious and too short! Love passionately, give, and share your time and blessings generously with others – as we are richly blessed so may we richly bless others. Our leadership at home, in our social circles, and in daily routines is vital to maintaining our nation’s constitutional republic. Now is the time to shape the future of our great nation as we strive for a more perfect union. There is plenty of work remaining as we increase our wisdom! Time, tide, and column due dates wait for no man!

Duke Longworth

’72

Life Membership: 59%

Donor Participation: 24.22%

Pres: CAPT Rick Rubel, USN (Ret.)

e: rrubel9@gmail.com

Sec’y: CDR Rich Robison, USN (Ret.)

3126 North Greystone Dr., Morgantown, WV 26508

e: Scribe72@comcast.net

Website: http://1972.myusna.com

Class Listserv: TheGouge-USNA72@googlegroups.com

Facebook: USNA Class of 1972

Greetings, Classmates! Spring is just around the corner (so they say), and I was just reminded by Mrs. Scribe that I haven’t gotten

around to having our trusty lawn tractor serviced yet. So, if I don’t want to go out there and cut it all by hand, I suppose I need to get on the stick. (Whoever said that you have all this free time when you retire was really blowing smoke…!)

Those of you with sharp memories will recall that Ann and Curt Kemp promised to provide a few nuggets from their sojourn to the Cotswolds last fall. Well, here you go…

M “In September, Ann and I did a challenging but beautiful 105-mile hike in England (The Cotswold Way) – hilly, lovely landscapes, sometimes walking through pastures of sheep or cows. Staying at inns at small villages each night over a 10-day period along with Ann’s brother and wife. People were wonderfully friendly. Also, excited to report that our son, Ian, assumed command of VFA-192, the “Fighting Golden Dragons”, on 2 December 2023. Ann and I are very excited for him. Lastly, knowing that 2023 was a tough football season for Navy, over the Christmas holiday, as you can see from the enclosed photo, I was out recruiting some new fans for 2024.”

At

“OK, you studs, all together now…DECK THE HALLS…”

Thanks, Curt…but a little more animation from those fans wouldn’t be such a bad idea.

Closing Ranks. OK, folks, we have a bunch of them to report this month, so here goes.

Steve Behringer passed away on Friday, 17 November 2023. Behr came to USNA from Scottsdale, AZ and was a proud member of the 31st Company. Following graduation, he earned his pilot wings and became an aircraft commander and instructor pilot in a variety of different aircraft including the E-1B Tracer (aka Willy Fudd), E-2C Hawkeye, T-44 Pegasus and C-2 Greyhound. After retiring from active duty in 1993, Behr went on to earn a Master of Business Administration degree and pursued yet another aviation career as a commercial airline pilot for Northwest Airlink, Reno Air, and American Airlines, where he retired in 2011. He is survived by his wife, Maren, two daughters, four grandchildren and three siblings. A memorial service and celebration of life were held in Poway, CA on 13 January 2024 with members of the Class in attendance. His obituary can be found at: https://www.poway bernardomortuary.net/obituary/ stephen-behringer.

Dave Dennis passed away on Monday, 4 December 2023 in Virginia Beach, VA. Dave was born in Oceanside (Long Island) NY, and brought his football, wrestling, and lacrosse with him to USNA where he was a member of the 1st Company. (Steve Soroka passed along the accompanying photo of the 1971 Navy Lacrosse Team, who made it to the semi-finals of the first-ever 8-team NCAA Lacrosse Tournament.)

Navy LAX 1971:

Pat Lee

Shortly after graduation, Dave married his high school sweetheart, Terri, and they embarked on an adventurous 52 years together. Dave was the ultimate entrepreneur, selling meats, cheesecakes, donuts, and shrimp before he started a career in coffee and vending. He

the End of the 105-Mile Trail

Karl Schweim (’71), Dave Walla, Dave Dennis, Steve Soroka, Ron Lanning, Mike McNallen (’71) and

’72: Salute to Dave Dennis: Bob Musselman, Lad Tomlin, Gary Groefsma, Dale Feltes, Bill Moffatt, Mike Stocks, Darryll Getzlaff, Dave Switzer, Dan McElroy, Leo Accursi, Dave Boy, and Barry Dougherty

launched Dennis Foods out of his garage and grew his K-12 vending business into a $12M a year enterprise. He is survived by his loving wife, Terri, two sisters, two children, and four granddaughters. A service was held in Virginia Beach on 26 January 2024 which was attended by 12 members of our Class, followed by a gathering at a local restaurant to share memories and swap sea stories. Expressions of sympathy can be posted at: David Arthur Denniss Obituary 2023; evaughnwray.com.

Rick Gilbert died suddenly from a massive heart attack on Tuesday, 5 December 2023. Rick came to USNA from St. Louis, MO, and was a member of the 4th Company. He was a Surface Line Officer following graduation, and subsequently pursued a 43-year career in manufacturing, retiring in 2014. He is survived by his wife, Susy, three children, six grandchildren, his sister and two brothers. Larry Johnson was kind enough to pass along the following:

M “Rick’s memorial service was held in his boyhood home of St. Louis, MO on January 6th with 16 of his 4th Company mates and spouses attending from across the country, including Steve Weatherspoon, Rick Beede, Ralph Grutzmacher, Evelyn and Don Carlson, Larry Johnson, Joe Coleman, Chris Haizlip, Al Fraser, Scott Steele, Max Mills, Ray Glennon, Ann and Curt Kemp, Steve Cereghino, and Jill Lyon. Not pictured are Rick’s USNA roommate Skip Wheeler and his wife, Jane. Skip had had to cancel at the last minute due to some sudden health issues of his own. Skip’s son, Bill Wheeler, delivered a eulogy in Skip’s absence. The day ended with a family reception at which we concluded with a rousing rendition of “Navy Blue and Gold” in which we were joined by Rick’s son, Doug Gilbert USNA ’03, and of course Susy herself.”

“Rick Beede summed up our sentiments this way; “Rick, along with his 4th Company cohorts, sharing in that truly unique Naval Academy experience, were all fortunate enough to have endured those four long years together, somehow managing the stressful, formative days together, and who now, decades past, continue closely following each other’s circumstances – both good and bad –together. Hopefully Susy and her entire family realize that her Brothers and Sisters of the Fourth, those represented in-person as well as those standing by us in spirit, were honored at having joined them in celebrating the life and times of Richard P. Gilbert. Together.

“His full obituary can be found at the following link: https://www.beyersfuneral home.com/obituaries/Richard-Gilbert-13/ #!/ Obituary.

Rick was just one of those great guys who served as a Surface Warfare Officer, historian, teacher and a true child of God. We will all miss him!”

Rick Jacobs passed away after a long illness on December 27 at his home in Bluffton, SC surrounded by his family. Rick followed his brother to USNA from Bethesda, MD, where he became a member of the 13th Company. He was selected for the Nuclear Power Program and, after graduation and completion of training, served aboard ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) and other assignments with the Naval Reserve. He worked at IBM and subsequently for the Nuclear Regulatory Committee (NRC) before moving to Atlanta to work for the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO).

Rick is survived by his wife of 50 years, Cindy, a son and daughter (twins born on Valentines Day 1981), and four grandchildren. A funeral service was held on 4 January 2024 in Okatie, SC. An obituary and a Tribute Wall can be found at https://www.saulsfh.com/obituary/Rick-Jacobs.

The Class extends its sincerest condolences to the spouses and families of all of our departed Classmates.

Fred Cohrs passed along the accompanying photo taken on 19 January 2024 at Skip Kohler’s funeral Mass in the USNA Chapel and inurnment at the Columbarium on Hospital Point. Fred added, “It was a bitterly cold day, with snow and ice that caused the Yard to be shut down and classes canceled. However, 10 intrepid classmates paid their respects in spite of the weather.”

A lengthy list of obits, to be sure. Nearly every one of these came to our attention through the efforts of our Company Reps, who are often some of the first people to learn of a Classmate’s passing. This network becomes more and more important as time goes by, and we owe it to the spouses and families of our Classmates to be there and lend a hand when we’re needed. So, to the Company Reps…and to all of you who have stepped forward to help a family of one of our Classmates when they need it…thank you. Your efforts are recognized and appreciated by the people who need it most.

Stay safe and stay in touch. More to come. D. O.

Tried and True with ’72

’73

Life Membership: 67%

Donor Participation: 43.21%

Pres: Paul J. Ryan

e: pauljryan@aol.com

Sec’y: CAPT James H. Chapman, USN (Ret.)

769 Largo Dr., Virginia Beach, VA 23464-2417

p: 757-462-0344; e: Chap7690@gmail.com

Hello Classmates, Spring is close and the Dark Ages are about over. I hope you are well. It’s

Members of 4th Company with Susy Gilbert

’72: 4th Company Classmates at Rick Gilbert’s Memorial Service

’72 Classmates Paying Respect to Skip Kohler

been a mild winter so far in Virginia Beach. We have not been below freezing yet. Of course, now that I have written this, we will probably have a blizzard! Please pass on any news or celebrations of the Dark Ages. Hopefully, I will have some photos and news of the 9th Company celebration in the next edition. I have a lot of news and info to share so let’s get to it.

My first item is from Paul Ryan and the crew teams.

M “Jim, During our 50th Reunion, the class heavyweight and lightweight crews honored their coaches by dedicating two new racing shells, the Carl Ullrich and the Major Skip Sweetser. Coach Ullrich was the head crew coach from 1968-1974. Major Sweetser was a member of the 1960 Olympic crew and served as the lightweight crew coach from 1970-1972. Both coaches positively influenced the lives of the oarsmen they worked with. Dirk Mosis and Mark Cavallo were instrumental in leading the fundraising. Attending the christening ceremonies over the weekend included members of the Ullrich and Sweetser families along with numerous classmates.

Mike Kalas is heading up the Distinguished Graduate Award committee for the class. Mike sent the following;

M “The Naval Academy Alumni Association recognizes graduates who have distinguished themselves in various different endeavors, which include but are not limited to their military service. While nominations for this

prestigious award may come from different sources, most recipients are nominated by their classmates. So far, two members of the Class of 1973 have been recognized by the Alumni Association as Distinguished Graduates, based on nominations by our Class. A full description of the DGA Award and the associated nomination criteria can be found on the Naval Academy Alumni Association website: Distinguished Graduate Award – www.usna.com. If, after reviewing the qualifications and requirements for the DGA Award, you would like to nominate one of our classmates, you can submit your Preliminary Nomination to any member of the ’73 DGA Selection Committee via email no later than 30 March, 2024. The Class of ’73 guidance can be found in our class website: http://1973.usnaclasses.net/ distinguished-grads-flag-officers/. “

Thanks to Mike, Joe Stewart and Rob Bender for being the DGA committee for the class. I received a nice story from John “Benny” Benjamin. I had to do a little editing but I think I got it right.

M “Jim, Chuck Trahan and I were goat keepers for the Navy football games during the fall 1972 season. Chuck and I had discussed our plans for the reunion. Chuck had the idea that perhaps we could arrange to be honorary goat keepers for the reunion game on October 7. That plan fell through when Chuck suffered a fall just prior to the reunion trip. Chuck was able to attend the reunion but with impaired mobility. His goat keeper idea was still in the

back of my mind, though. As I watched the game that day, I saw two goats in one corner of the end zone at the standing room only end of the field in the same area as the seating for the midshipmen. Neither goat was decorated in the same way I remember “Bill” being decorated and both seemed to be smaller goats. I had nothing to lose and with Chuck’s idea slightly modified, I headed down the hill to that corner of the end zone. My goal became to get a picture with the goats. Upon reaching the end zone corner, I noticed that both goats had blankets on their backs that indicated that they were goats in training. There were several goat keepers who are now called “Team Bill.” I shouted to one of the Team Bill members that I had been a goat keeper and would like to get a picture. She helped me down to the field, and I posed for pictures with one of the goats. Figuring my luck on the field was running out, I did not take the time to inquire about why “Bill” wasn’t there. According to the blanket on his back, the name of the goat in the picture with me is “Benny.” No, I’m not making that up, and no, no one named the goat after me. I’m John Benjamin and Benny was my childhood nickname since birth. The other included picture was taken from the 1973 Lucky Bag just to prove Chuck and I really were goat keepers. It was a great game. Navy beat North Texas and I have a wonderful Navy goat picture souvenir.

John and Benny the Goat 2023

I have a little “Then and now”. If you will remember from the September Shipmate I had the story and photo of the “9th Company Magnificent 7” They are still going strong. Congratulations to Dave Kucik for receiving the Craig Thrasher Service to Rowing Award for his outstanding service to the rowing community.

John, Chuck and Bill the Goat circa 1972

’73: Heavy Weigh Crew. Chip Keener, Mark Cavallo, Jim Snead, Bill Comly, Jim Haggart, Max Kalafat, Don Jefferson, Tom Gallagher, Dirk Mosis, Dave Kucik, John Kiser, Larry Doerflein, Chuck Munns and Ross Harding

’73: Light Weigh Crew. Jim McGarrah, Mark Cavallo, Andy Schneck, Bob Smith, Dave Moreland, Nancy Sweetser, Chip Keener, Tim Taylor, Jim Snead, Paul Ryan, Dirk Mosis and Bill Comly.

then flight school. He was an A-6 Bombardier Navigator. Dan left the Marine Corps in 1978 as a captain. Dan was the beloved husband of Nancy Robitaille McHale. Look for more on Dan’s life in Last Call and please keep the family of our classmate in your thoughts and prayers.

I am about caught up on all the items you have sent. I did not receive many pictures or stories from the reunion. If you would like to share some company photos or stories that would be great. As always, Go Navy and Semper fi! Non Sibi. —General

’74

Life Membership: 60%

Donor Participation: 37.87%

Pres: John Yaeger

Corr Sec’y: Roger McEvoy p: 559-905-7362; e: usna745677@hotmail.com

Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried, Grapple them unto thy soul with hoops of steel

The Dark Ages are over for most of us. Here in Florida, it was 80 degrees this afternoon. And for most of you reading this, Spring should be in full bloom. The 50th Reunion is less than six months off, and all is right with the world. (Well, assuming you too have become fed up with the current political climate and have stopped watching local, state, national and world news!)

Now in our 50th year post-commissioning, our link-in-the-Chain class, 2024, recently celebrated their Service Assignment night. Ten of our classmates joined in the celebration. On Service Assignment Day, the Firsties gather in their company area at noon and the Company Officer passes out t-shirts representing their new communities (Red t-shirts for Marines, Dark Blue for aviation etc). That evening there is a celebration in Dahlgren Hall. The picture is of the ’74 folks participating. (Left to right)

After winning both the Eastern Sprints and the IRA’s as a Navy oarsman, and service in the Navy as a submariner, Dave embarked on a 43-year coaching career in men’s collegiate rowing. As a freshman coach at Wisconsin, he helped the Badgers win four Ten Eyck team points trophies at the IRA. As the Director of Rowing at Cornell University, he guided the heavyweight team to new heights and helped develop multiple national team and Olympic athletes. Dave is most well-known for his time as the Director of Rowing at Purdue University, where he molded both the men’s and women’s teams into club rowing powerhouses. At Purdue, he guided the

Boilermakers to 9 Dad Vail team points trophies, earned multiple coach of the year honors, and was awarded the American Collegiate Rowing Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Dave will be presented the Craig Thrasher Award at a Banquet on February 24, 2024.

I have some sad news to pass on.

Daniel McHale, 7th Co, passed away on December 15, 2023, at the age of 73 after a long battle with cancer. Upon graduation, he was commissioned a 2LT in the Marine Corps, attended Officers’ Basic School in Quantico, VA, and

Mike Miller (23rd Co.), Paul Sullivan (23rd Co.), Mo Becker (18th Co.), Marty Jarosz (25th Co.), John Yaeger (25th Co.), Gary Roberts (29th Co.), Don Loren (26th Co.), Rusty Yeiser (32th Co.), Tim Schndor (30th Co.) and Doug Rau (7th Co.). In March the class of ’24 will find out the specifics of their first duty station (Ship, class start dates etc).

Very clearly, the beat goes on . . .

Unfortunately, not all our classmates will make it to the reunion. In the last month I have received word of the passing of four members of ’74.

Michael Little (10th Co.) passed away Tuesday, Jan. 9th, 2024, from complications due to Covid and pneumonia.

Thomas Morse (36th Co.) of Chester Springs, PA passed away Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 at home surrounded by family following a 14-month battle against glioblastoma.

William Andrew Ringleman (Non-Grad) passed away on Dec. 9 in Dayton, Ohio.

’73: The Magnificent 7 circa 1973

’73: The Magnificent 7 circa 2023 Robbie Davis, Jim Etro, Mike Gouge, Leif Hendrickson, Nick Smilari, Pat Brignola and Mark Salmen

Dave Kucik

I didn’t know Michael, Thomas or William personally. Dan and I had crossed paths occasionally, but I didn’t really know him, either. However, I received a note from Stu Cvrk, Dan’s 10th Co. mate, recalling his relationship with Dan. Not only is the note extremely well written, I believe it is common of the bonds we established at USNA. With Stu’s permission, I reprint his note here:

M Daniel Patrick Mays, from Glen Rock, PA. That was part of our plebe rates in 18th Company that everyone had to learn about companymates at USNA. Some things one does not forget, and Dan ranks right up there. He was a great classmate, company-mate, and friend!

News of his passing hit me particularly hard. His sense of humor was infectious, and when he laughed, his whole body shook in rhythm. I fondly remember the phrase he taught me as we scoped out the girls in the Yard on weekends. He would say, “Stuuuuu, that one is uglier than sin dipped in misery.” What a hoot! I wish I could hear him say that just one more time.

We teamed up on Halloweens to scare the be-Jesus out of midshipmen throughout Bancroft Hall. I was Dracula, complete with red lipstick, plastic vampire teeth, slicked-back hair, and talcum powered face while Dan was the trusty sidekick Igor. At 6’ 5” tall, he made an impressive spectacle, dressed in rain gear and hunched over with a prominent hump, a caricature of deformed raised fingers and arms, and a rambling crab walk down the hallways and into the rooms of shocked occupants. We scared the CRAP out of a lot of people on Halloween!

After graduation we lost touch but reconnected in San Diego in the late 70s. He had begun his calling as a lay pastor which would eventually lead him to Kyiv, Ukraine. We spoke regularly in those years through the mid-90s and emailed each other about politics and his experiences, too. Sadly, we gradually lost touch, to my everlasting regret.

I am certain that Dan received his just reward for a lifetime of service and ministering to

others in many capacities. He was a gracious, selfless, and caring man who will be missed. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Stu. And for so eloquently demonstrating the bond that transcends through our lives.

That’s all the info that has been submitted since the last column. I know that when I talk to classmates on the phone, virtually everyone I talk to is focused on the reunion. The AAC recently announced that they expect to publish the upcoming ’24 season football schedule by February 12. So, as you read this, the actual dates for the reunion should be set, and the entire schedule should be published.

If you have any questions, remember that you can always contact me directly. I may not have the answers you seek, but I will find out, Sir!

Go Navy.

Roger

’75

Life Membership: 61%

Donor Participation: 32.88%

Pres: Chris Cikanovich e: chickc975@gmail.com

Sec’y: CAPT Larry Warrenfeltz, USN (Ret.) 5732 Tamarack Dr., Pace, FL 32571 p: 850-525-8727; e: usna75scribe@hotmail.com

Website: http//1975.usnaclasses.net/

Dear ’mates,

It looks like we’ve survived the Dark Ages of 2024. Here in the Florida Panhandle it isn’t quite as cold and dark as it was when we were in Annapolis, but it was still too cold and dark for my tastes.

As we discovered last issue, more than half of the surviving members of 25th Company participated in a series of traveling mini-reunions during the summer of 2023. Bob Giuda and Dave Corley made an East Coast tour in Bob’s plane. Then Company Rep Tom Kelley and Betty met up with Ray Martin and Sandy … followed a few weeks later by a get-together with Diane and Lunce Bass. We didn’t have room in the Jan-Feb column for all the great photos, so here are a few more from the files.

Martin and Kelley

Bass and Kelley

What do good grandfathers do on a pretty winter afternoon in southern California? They take their adorable, intelligent, and talented granddaughters for a walk in the park in Coronado Cays. Bob “Grampy” Clark is escorting 16-month old Scout Clark Keating Sergent. Dick “Grandpa” Arnold is with 7-month old Jacqueline Jeannette.

Daniel Mays (10th Co.), passed on Dec. 21, 2023.

Giuda, Mike Basehore, Corley — maintaining our topless photo tradition

Granddaughters on a roll

’74: ‘24 Service Assignment Participants

The September opening of the Fluegel Hall Alumni Center (to be known to us forevermore as ’75 House) was a great multi-day event.

On Thursday, the Alumni Association and Foundation welcomed Tig Krekel and his partner Sherry to a private tour and lunch prior to the dedication and grand opening. Following a short tour of the exterior of the building, Tig and Sherry entered the main doors and were welcomed by the entire staff of the Alumni Association, the USNA Foundation, and Athletic and Scholarship Programs. The new resident staff members manned the rails of the main lobby and upper atrium to thank Tig for his donation of the office wing now housing all of them in one location.

On Friday, the Fluegel Center was officially dedicated in a ceremony held in the USNA ’75 Arrival Plaza. Following the dedication, guests were welcomed to great tours of the facility and a view of the Plankowner Wall. We are well represented by the 104 planks donated by ’75, including eight planks with gold stars recognizing our classmates killed in the line of duty.

On Saturday, there was a special event opened to all plank owners. The Flower Children showed up and enjoyed the new facility. ’75 rules! The Tig Krekel ’75 Office Wing; the Ron and Liane Nicol Alumni Lounge; the USNA ’75 Arrival Plaza; the USNA ’75 Large Class Crest in the Alumni Garden and 104 plank owners all speak to our commitment to having ’75 recognized in perpetuity. On top of all that, when Eric Guerrazzi saw that the wall of class rings only had a replica of a ’75 ring, he donated his ring on the spot so that we are adequately represented there as well. When you are in Annapolis, please take the time to enjoy the new facility and all it has to offer.

The Nicol Alumni Lounge

We are planning several events at the “75 House” during our 50th Reunion. Mark your calendars for 23-26 October 2025. Consider contributing to the 50th Reunion Financial Assistance Fund so that every classmate and significant other can gain access to the necessary funds to rejoin once again with the friends of our youth.

75 Sir!

Larry

’76

Life Membership: 59%

Donor Participation: 28.08%

Pres: Kevin Stone

928 Lynch Dr., Arnold, MD 21012 p: 410-974-4313; e: kevin.stone@1976.usna.com

Sec’y: Mark Hubbard

774 Settlers Ln., Kure Beach, NC 28449-4907 p: 301-514-1645; e: Mark.Hubbard@1976.usna.com

Website: http//usna76.wordpress.com/

I don’t know how 2024 is evolving for you, but I started off the new year with reverse shoulder replacement surgery on January 3rd –WOOHOO! I’ve been living with the pain in my left shoulder for years and I finally gave in to the ever-increasing discomfort and went under the knife. It’s hell getting old…all the abuse we inflict on our bodies in our youth manages to come back to haunt us! At least I am still able to type. However, I’ll have to ease back into playing the guitar. So now it’s time to catch up on my backlog of some of your inputs from last year.

News from Jim Taplett (25th Co): M Jim Taplett and brother Ken Taplett ’71 (8th Co.) embarked on a week-long “Road Trip” to visit five of the eight Ivy League Schools in mid-October 2023 (Columbia, Yale, Dartmouth, Cornell, Princeton); the other three Ivies (Harvard, Brown, Penn) were previously visited by both brothers. Besides experiencing the beautiful autumn foliage and the uniqueness of each Ivy Campus, Jim and Ken made stops at Grant’s Tomb, New York City; Deerfield Academy, Deerfield, MA; Horse Racing HoF and Automobile Museum in Saratoga Springs, NY; the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) and FDR Presidential Library and Museum, Hyde Park, NY. A couple of interesting Navy related highlights of the trip included a chance meeting while at Dartmouth College where the brothers sighted a gentleman wearing a USNA sweatshirt walking the grounds with his wife and daughter. After a brief chat, Ken recognized the wife, Dr. Noreen Leahy, née McQuade ’81 (15th Co.), as one of his finest midshipmen while he was assigned as 15th Company Officer at USNA from 1979 to 1981. While at Cornell University, Jim and Ken stopped in at a very large Field House, home to the school’s Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC units. There they met NROTC Commander CAPT Scott Hardy, USN (Texas A&M), who proudly showed them his unit’s facilities and provided helpful gouge for their continued tour. With this “Bucket List” trip checked off, the brothers headed back to Jim’s residence in Alexandria, VA, via a stop at Princeton University and lunch with Ken’s son John on the outskirts of Philadelphia, PA. Ken stuck around for the weekend Navy vs. Air Force football game in Annapolis before heading back home to Lake Jackson, TX.

Dick and Jeannette with Jana Sophia and Jacqueline Jeannette

The Tig Krekel ’75 Office Wing

Class of 1975 Arrival Plaza plaque

Jim, John

and Ken meet for lunch at Princeton Carl Sharperson (6th Co.) met up with John Allen (34th Co.) back on September 9th last year: M Today I was blessed to be able to have breakfast with my close friend, USNA ’76 classmate/Distinguished Graduate Award (DGA) recipient, and one of the best/accomplished leaders that I have ever known, Retired US Marine Corps General, John Allen. We talked about how we were both trying to make the world a better place by teaching, mentoring, and coaching leaders, and organizations the fundamental Leadership principles, that we both subscribe to. He read my first book, Sharp Leadership - Overcome Adversity to Lead with Authenticity about 5 years ago when I first wrote it, and he received a copy of my second book, Sharp Leadership - Parenting Principles for Rearing Young People, today. Click link below learn more.

We both agree that the AI/social media, are the biggest Leadership dilemmas today, because you cannot legislate integrity, humanity, and character. What can be made for good can also be used for evil, when in the wrong hands. We are both committed to doing, what we can, to positively influence the next generations. Be blessed and be safe.

Semper Fi, and Simplify, Carl www.carlsharpersonjr.com

Carl Sharperson also had the opportunity to attend the Gator Bowl on 29DEC23 with Eugene Ford (20th Co.).

Joe Paquette (2nd Co.) and his family attended the 124th annual Army-Navy game at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA, on December 9th, 2023. Even though the outcome of the game was not in favor of Navy, it was an outstanding game. The entire Paquette family enjoyed the day: Joe and his wife, Shirley, grandchildren, Kailyn & Kaden, daughter-in-law, Lindsay, and son Jason.

Passing though Guayaquil, Ecuador, Hugh Neighbour (2nd Co.) and wife Inger met up with Valdemar “Val” Sánchez (4th Company) and wife Marthita. They had a couple of wonderful days with Val and Marthita seeing their beautiful hometown of Guayaquil.

After graduation from USNA, Val returned home to continue his career in the Ecuadorian Navy. He soon returned to the U.S. to complete TBS at Quantico. He also was in the U.S. a few years later to complete a year of Special Forces training at the John F. Kennedy School at Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg). Val served as Commandant of Ecuador’s Marines, Commanding Officer of Ecuador’s Special Forces, and eventually earned promotion to VADM in Ecuador’s Navy. Val served his country in two wars.

Although retired from active duty in 2007, since 2013 Val has continued to serve his country as head and instructor of the Leadership Area at Ecuador’s Naval War College in Guayaquil for both midshipmen and for commissioned officers. He also regularly directs whole-ofgovernment war games which can run many days per game. Very senior Ecuadorian officers and civilian officials participate in these exercises, was well as officers from neighboring South American countries.

Hugh continues to work at sea aboard cruise ships for several months each year. Inger always accompanies him aboard ship. They bid farewell to Marthita and Val in Guayaquil to embark for Hugh’s work aboard a ship on a southerly course down the coast of South America.

Jim, Noreen McQuade, and Ken at Dartmouth

Jim and Scott Hardy at Cornell

Taplett,

Along the beautiful Malecón Puerto Santa Ana in Guayaquil, L to R—Hugh and Inger Neighbour, Marthita and Val Sánchez

’76: Carl Sharperson and John Allen

’76: Eugene Ford and Carl Sharperson at the Gator Bowl where Clemson defeated Kentucky 38-35

CLASS OF 1976 REMEMBERING COACH AL CANTELLO

Legendary Cross Country and Track & Field Coach

By Jim Doherty ’76

Al Cantello, beloved coach, teacher, mentor, Olympian, and World Record Holder (javelin) passed away on January 17th. His tenure at the Naval Academy spanned 55 years. Many of us will remember him as the PE Instructor who taught us how to box or run the O-Course smarter. He was that and also the Cross Country Coach to me and my teammates/classmates Steve Giorgis, Rick Salazar, Larry Jones, and Val Sanchez. Everyone who ever interacted with him has a story. This is one of mine:

About 10 years ago, I was at West Point for the Army-Navy Cross Country race. In a driving rain, Navy beat the Black Knights. Having said my congratulations and goodbyes under a bit of a canopy at the finish line to everyone except Coach Cantello (I couldn’t find him), I began running down the golf course fairway (also part of Army’s Cross Country course) in the direction of my car. I suddenly heard a voice calling to me, “Doc…Doc Doherty!” I looked over my shoulder and saw a figure standing alone in the middle of the fairway under an umbrella. It was Coach. As I ran to him, he held out his umbrella and I got under. He didn’t speak at first, but just stared out across the fairway into the rain, coming down harder now. I waited. Finally, he turned to me and asked, “How long did it take you to drive here?” I had no idea where he was going with this. I said, “I don’t know, Coach,

maybe three hours or so.” He looked at me for a few seconds, turned away again and after an even longer silence, finally turned back and, looking directly at me, said, “During the bus ride back to Annapolis tonight, I will consider whether I’m worthy of your loyalty and support.” I just stared at him. I had no words. I remember swallowing hard and after a moment, congratulating him for the victory, wishing him well for the rest of the season, shaking his hand and running to my car. Several minutes passed before I was finally ready to start the car and as I did, I looked out the window in the direction of where he was standing … but he was gone. I drove off into the rain. ®

Albert Anthony Cantello, Sr. – Obituary: https://kalasfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Albert-Cantello,Sr.-10055

With the passage of time, there is the inevitable news about the departed classmates. More recently, we sadly lost three of our class members: Larry Doong (35th Co.) passed away on 4 DEC 23. https://www.ballardfamilymortuaries. com/obituaries/Lawrence-Larry-K-C-DoongJr?obId=30180062

David Kerrick (18th Co.) died on 13 DEC 23. https://www.omanfh.com/obituaries/DavidThomas-Kerrick?obId=30179420#/obituaryInfo

James Epps (9th Co.) departed on 24 DEC 23. https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/

temple-terrace-fl/james-epps-11599587 Our deepest condolences to the families of our fallen classmates.

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” - Thomas Campbell

On a final note: Keep an eye out for correspondence from Kevin Stone regarding the “Bonds of  Gold” Ceremony to be held in Memorial Hall in April.

Shipmate editor’s note: ’76, be sure to read Class of 2002 column- you will be glad you did.

Val Sánchez at one of the whole-of-government war games he leads for Ecuador (The Blue team won)

Tim Farrell (27th Co.) provided a photo taken at a dinner gathering on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

Boys’ night out at Sullivan’s Steakhouse in King of Prussia, PA. – Front Row: John Church ’89, Tim Farrell, Scott Jenkins, Tom Kennedy; Back Row: Hugh Willis, Leroy Sparr, Dave Lawrence and Dave Sneeringer

’76: Joe Paquette and family at the Army-Navy Game

Larry Jones, Coach Cantello, Jim Doherty and Steve Giorgis

’77

Life Membership: 75%

Donor Participation: 26.13%

Pres: David G. Paddock

3833 Prince Andrew Ln., Virginia Beach, VA 23452-3912 p: 757-373-0977; e: dgpaddock77@gmail.com

Sec’y: Thom McKee

1202 Shady Creek Rd., Marriottsville, MD 21104 p: 410-489-5080; f: 410-489-5071 c: 202-438-1541; e: magoo1310@verizon.net

’78

Life Membership: 81%

Donor Participation: 44.73%

Pres: Glen Woods

Sec’y: Vince Balderrama

1320 Homewood Ln., Annapolis, MD 21401 e: canoeu78@aol.com

Website: usna1978.org

Where has the time gone?! As this heads out the proverbial “internet-door” to our very understanding Shipmate editor, the month of January is just about over. If I thought 2023 was a busy year, this one looks to be even more so. That said, let’s get on with some late news.

Ray Kempisty (13th Co) wrote in December about his “favorite subject”- his son, Mitch (’14). He’s currently OPS on USS MASON operating in the Red Sea. (As you know, the MASON and been in the news a lot lately.)

Mitch has been selected for early command and O-4 sometime this year and will hopefully take command of an MCM in either Bahrain or Sasebo. By the way, Mitch used to be a Professional bull rider (PBR). Ray had sent me a link to a Johnstown, PA internet newspaper article on a PBR competition. Mitch’s aunt, Judy Kempisty, was quoted in the article and mentioned Mitch’s riding days. Cool!

In January, Kevin Liddy (17th Co) wrote that Drew Neinhaus (36th Co) had been in St. Louis. He came up from Texas for the funeral of his mom, Shirley Nienhaus. She passed away the day after Christmas at the age of 97. Sorry for your loss, Drew. Her obituary told the great story of what a wonderful woman she was. Kevin also noted that he, John Hueseman (19th Co), and Rick Roustio (27th Co) reunited at the wake. Afterward, the three of them went out to dinner and shared stories with their meal. By the way, Kevin is one of our classmates who was an elected official. He currently sits on the Board of Election Commissioners. Over the years, he has run for public office five times and won three of those times. When he lived in Connecticut he served on the Milford, CT Planning & Zoning Board for 10 years. I know there are more of you who are or have been elected officials- or have run for public office. We would sure like to know. Drop me a line if you fall into those categories. (We would also like to know who among you have served as a Senior Executive Service (SES) and where.)

Roustio, Liddy and Hueseman

Matt Leavitt (23rd Co) also sent an update in January. Matt retired from the CIA at the very end of 2023. As he put it, he is now “officially a pensioner.” Though retired- like many of usthat doesn’t mean he isn’t busy. He and his wife, Maria, are in the St. Luke’s Choir and are both board members of a couple of non-profits. Matt’s also the “Country Contact” for the Rotary Club between Spain and the organizations that coordinate placements on the U.S. East Coast (Eastern States Student Exchange). He remains active with Rotary and the men’s group at his Church, and the “honey-do list” at home keeps him busy too. At the beginning of January, he was out in Hawaii, to see his daughter, Liz, get promoted to captain, U.S. Public Health Service. Liz is the CDC Rep at the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM).

Other family transitions include son, Matt (’04), moving to a different company providing highend Cyber support to the U.S. Government and son, Joe (’06), finishing up his Russian language training and the Defense Attaché school. This year Joe will PCS to Baku, Azerbaijan, as the Naval Attaché. Maria is going to continue to work for at least another year or so, which means he will primarily be in the DC area for the near to medium term, with occasional trips to Spain etc. (They live in McLean (close-in Northern VA suburbs to DC)). Maria is with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). As Matt wrote, “Due to seniority, she got an early pick of office when the USPTO consolidated and now has a beautiful view of the Potomac from a tenth floor vista – pretty nice! She still enjoys participating in the classical guitar / flamenco world as a Board member with the non-profit ‘TorcuArt’ and has had a major hand in putting on a series of delightful events, most recently a great Christmas concert and sing-along of the traditional Christmas Carols of Spain. Check out www.torcuart.com to see some of the events!” Thanks for the update, Matt. Hope to see you around town.

Celebrating a Leavitt Promotion

As I close up this brief column, the Class has already started engaging in our Another Link in the Chain (ALITC) with the Class of 2028- yes, we are now that senior. The Class received an invitation from the commanding officer of NAPS for 10 participants and a guest speaker to attend the NAPS Dining In. We are sending a contingent. There will be more about it in the next column. For now, our volunteers were: Charlie Hautau (15th Co), NAPSter classmates “Jock” Maloney (16th Co), Ken Colby (4th Co), and Ken Law (34th Co), along with John Young (4th Co), Tom Crowley (11th Co), Carlos Sotomayor (16th Co), Brett Ayotte (29th Co), Kevin “Grinch” Lynch (26th Co), Tony Quatroche (31st Co), and yours truly. As a former NAPS Commanding Officer, Charlie will be the Guest of Honor and provide a few remarks. On a couple of interesting notes, the NAPS CO, CAPT Tom Clarity, is a former CO of the VAQ-131 “Lancers”. Carlos had also once commanded that squadron. The other “six degrees of Kevin Bacon” with our class is the fact that the current NAPS XO, Major Mike Magyar (’11), was a midshipman candidate at NAPS when Charlie Hautau was CO. (Mike is also a “Mustang”, former Navy Corpsman, and classmate to seven of our ’78 sons and a daughter USNA Grads). There’ll be more about the dinner in the next column.

This year there will be more will be some key ALITC activities as the Class of ’28 enters the Academy. There will be opportunities for many of you to be involved. Among this year’s key activities are some local alumni chapters “Welcome Aboard” sessions with appointees who have accepted their appointments, I-day (27 June 2024), Honor Coin presentation and Plebe Parent’s weekend (approximately 8-11 Aug 2024). We will be getting the gouge out separately about all our activities in advance and of the need for any volunteers. Some of the events will have limited numbers for direct participation because of space and schedule limitations in the Yard, but there will be more ways for you to help. Thank you to those who have already volunteered to help – and thank you in advance for all those who will be volunteering in the future.

That’s it for now. Until the next time, Launchin’ Spot Four

’79

Life Membership: 91%

Donor Participation: 20.90%

Pres: CAPT Dave Jackson, USN (Ret.) e: djackson@usna.edu

Sec’y: LCDR John “Wiz” Withers, USN (Ret.) 1886 Woodpoint Ct., Lawrenceville, GA 30043 p: 240-298-1006; e: JDWithers@1979.usna.com

Social Network Links: http://www.linkedin.com/in/wizwithers

Facebook Group: USNA Class of 1979 Website: www.usna79.com

Greetings 79ers!

Once again, I’m blessed to have an overflowing mailbag, so let’s get right to it. First up is a great update from Andy Brower: M I have been updating on Facebook occasionally, but I thought I would be official and get some news in Shipmate. After the Navy I was a CPA and financial executive for almost 20 years, stay-at-home dad and Mr. Mom for 8 years and finally an elementary school teacher for 11 years. My wife Peggy Feldmann ’80 retired as an O-6 after 27 years and became involved in systems management in State government and private companies. We both retired in the summer of 2022.

We have been staying active in retirement. Our biggest accomplishment is recently completing the Appalachian Trail. We started day hiking in Shenandoah National Park near our house in the Shenandoah Valley and just kept going. Peggy had never hiked and it has been a long time since my Boy Scout days so it was an eye opener for both of us.

We finished the entire trail in less than a year so we are officially considered thru-hikers. We shuttled 2 cars back and forth to trailheads, mostly staying at hotels, hostels and Air B&Bs. By doing this we were able to see many of the small towns along the way - a road trip and hiking adventure at the same time.

We are currently hiking the C&O Canal and Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail from DC to Pittsburgh. Next is a walk across the Netherlands.

We are living in the house where I grew up in Richmond, VA. Our daughter, Addie Brower ’19 is currently navigator in USS PRINCETON (CG-59) and our son Cory (William & Mary ’22) is an analyst at CarMax. CarMax HQ is in Richmond, so our son is living with us and watching our house and cat while we go on our adventures. Peggy is a trustee in the USNA Foundation so we get to Annapolis several times a year. I’ve enjoyed the few tailgaters and home games I’ve been able to attend. Looking forward to the 45th!

Feel free to stop by and say hello if ever in Richmond.

Andy, when you say “staying active in retirement,” you really mean it! Karen and I have hiked some small sections of the AT, mostly in Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland. Once we moved to Atlanta we’ve gone up to the southern terminus but haven’t hiked much. We are our own version of “through-hikers” –we hike ‘til we’re through! Congrats to you and Peggy on your retirement, and thanks for the note.

Over the holidays I received an email from former class president – or should I say “President Emeritus” Sean Cate. I forget exactly how many years Sean served in that role, but he finally stepped down at the 40th reunion, in part due to his health, and passed the gavel to Dave Jackson. Sean gave me the run-down on his health, and since many of you have asked, he gave his permission to share it with you:

M Hi Wiz, hope all is well with you and Karen.

Just days before Christmas I unexpectedly found myself in the local Winchester, VA Medical Center ER while I was having an episode of dizziness and light-headedness. I was diagnosed with Sinus Bradycardia, or slow heart rate, after experiencing several episodes of this over the past several weeks.

In fact, I had been given a heart monitor the day before a very bad episode and it collected the data that allowed for the diagnosis by my cardiologist, who I had only met a week before. He told me I was getting a pacemaker implant NOW and he followed through. That day I woke up in my own bed expecting a busy day of Christmas preparations but went to sleep in a hospital bed with a new pacemaker implant tucked under the skin of my chest. Life seems to find ways to remind you that you are not really in control.

The surgery to implant the device went well and I am now mostly recovered. My heart rate measured as low as the mid-30s but now is set at 60 beats per minute.

Lesson Learned: Don’t ignore the warnings your body sends you. My episodes, getting progressively worse, were telling me I needed to get my slow heart rate under control. While everything worked out for me, it would have been better to have had this taken care of earlier.

My Parkinson’s Disease symptoms are being managed by drugs that regulate the amount of dopamine working in my brain. I also have a great support network, beginning with my wife, Janet, and amazing health care professionals. PD sucks, but I am lucky to have it when there are treatment options. My neurologist says people now won’t die from PD, but with PD. I’m not so sure, but it is encouraging! Great advances are being made all the time, and a cure in my lifetime is not out of the realm of possibility.

That’s it. Enjoy a Happy New Year! O/V, Sean Thanks, Sean, for letting us know. I’m sure all of ’79 is not only pulling for you but admire you for your attitude in such a situation. And Janet, as you read this, know we’re thinking of you too.

As I reported in my last issue, we lost Jack “Jackie” Rickman (23rd Co) back in November. Kevin Delaney was part of a small band of 79ers that attended Jackie’s funeral at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, CA. Kevin sent a photo of the gathering, which included Bill Steinwedell, Bart Sparks, Roger Vanderwerken, and Roger Chapa. As Kevin summed it up, “It was a sad occasion, but it was good to see classmates again.”

I unfortunately must report that we lost another classmate right before the holidays. Peter “Pete” Koufos (4th Co.) passed away on Friday, 8 December 2023, in Springfield, MI. After graduation Pete entered the surface line community, serving aboard USS HENRY B WILSON (DDG-7) in the Pacific.

Pete was buried at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI. He is survived by his fiancée, Karla Frenchi; siblings, Maria (Niall) McShane, Steve (Cassandra Viles) Koufos, Dr. Michael and Amy Koufos; and many nieces, nephews-in-law, grand-niece and grandnephew. Pete enjoyed visiting with Veterans, volunteering at the VA Medical Center in Battle

Peggy (Feldmann) and Andy Brower at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.

Peggy and Andy at the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail at Mt. Katahdin in Maine.

Jackie Rickman’s funeral (l-r): Kevin Delaney, Bill Steinwedell, Bart Sparks, Roger Vanderwerken and Roger Chapa

Creek, eating at restaurants and spending time with his family and friends.

Finally, it’s time to make your plans for our 45th Reunion this September. While I will publish all the details here in Shipmate, the best way to keep up to date is to make sure you’re receiving our class emails. Dave Jackson sends out a “Prez Sez” email the first of every month, along with unscheduled comms as necessary.

If you’re NOT receiving these, it means we don’t have an updated profile for you in the Alumni Assn database. Contact me (see the column header) and we’ll get you squared away. You DON’T want to miss the 45th!

Classmates, that does it for now. Now that the weather is breaking, we’re all going active, doing “stuff,” and generally having fun. Take care, and I’ll see you next month!

Just one more thing (Columbo impression here) – when you’re doing “stuff” and having fun, take a selfie and send it to me!

Wiz…

’80

Life Membership: 96%

Donor Participation: 24.79%

Pres: LtCol Tony Verducci USMC (Ret.) e: Ajverducci80@gmail.com

Sec’y: CAPT Joseph A. Grace Jr., USN (Ret.) 15 Allard Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70119 p: 504-915-6711; e: joe.grace@1980.usna.com

Website: http://1980.usnaclasses.net

Greetings Classmates,

At the time of this writing, we are struggling with the Dark Ages up north and we are gearing up for Mardi Gras here in New Orleans. Quite a contrast!

The past two months have been full of loss for the Class. This month, after a 17-year battle with ALS, Ken MacDonald, a 33rd Company giant, National Collegiate Boxing Association (NCBA) Champion and a brilliant mind – finally cast off the bonds of this life and is now free of his physical constraints of that terrible disease. He was very well supported by members of the Herd and his incredible wife Marylin. In the spirit of keeping their memory alive, I thought I would share a few vignettes that came in from the Class:

From Peter Kilger peter.kilger@gmail.com; M I have missed Ken’s texts. Ken and I drove to California together in his 208Z the summer before First Class year. He sure loved that car and I felt honored that he let me drive it too. We shared driving responsibilities. I shuddered to think how fast he drove when it was his turn and I slept. We were roommates that Fall and both platoon leaders. We had that great room that looked toward the bay at the end of the back hall. I watched as he built a computer for his EE class project, thinking that it would be cool to be that smart. During finals that

’80: Gathering of Classmates at Tammy Smith’s Funeral

semester he taught me to juggle. It was a great activity to practice when I got burned out studying for final exams. I have used that skill to impress my children and grandchildren to this day. Penny loves to tell the story of how I took her to the Valentine’s formal dance First Class year and part way through the dance, took her through the snowy yard, getting her dress all dirty, to McDonough Hall to watch Ken box. Of course, he won the match. It takes a special person to endure all he did for the past 17 years. There is no one I respect more.

From Dale Lumme, kid.lumme@1980.usna.com; M Ken was always taking care of me and all of our 33rd Herd mates in so many ways. Ken helped inspire me at USNA, in flight school, and in life, but…, I kept for many years the cassette tape of REO Speedwagon where he recorded “Time for me to Fly” over and over again on one side of the cassette - so he wouldn’t have to watch me try to rewind the tape over and over as we were driving to Whiting Field ‘to fly’ together.

I shared a few other stories in my e-mail that went out to the Class earlier this month. When Ken was barely able to move most of his body, he would constantly use other methods to text

and communicate with his Company Mates and Classmates. Independent of the trials he was facing personally, he always reached out to see how all of us were doing and offering encouragement and small snippets of incredible wisdom. He was a giant among men who fought the good fight and is now deserving of a special place. He will be greatly missed.

Another great friend for Ken was Pat Lefler, who constantly makes time to get together with Classmates. Here is a photo that he sent from Florida where he spontaneously met with Joe Hayden and Jeff Mertens. Joe was my roommate 2nd and 1st Class year, and Jeff and were going to room together Plebe year, before he decided to leave the Academy. Great friends!

Joe Hayden, Pat Lefler and Jeff Mertens -33rd Herd

’80: Gathering of the Class of 1980 at Reggie’s Funeral

80/80 CLASS NEWS

As we get older, as in life, we seem to get together for weddings, funerals and births. It’s the same for our Class. Many of the photos and stories come from these gatherings. At the end of the year, we also lost Reggie Trass and Tammy Smith (wife of Vic Smith). Harry Coker sent in these above photos of Classmates who were there to support our Shipmates.

Special thanks to all who make the effort to be there for our Classmates in their times of need!

In other Class updates, Jerry Randall jtrandall7@ gmail.com checked in from 26th Company:

M Joe,

My wife Kathy and I retired back to western Montana. Bought 20 acres and built a new home on “our mountain”- We travel back and forth to the Cincinnati area visiting our two daughters and five grandchildren. Our son and his wife live in Amsterdam which we are hoping to visit across the pond next year. Bob Morris retired last year and has been traveling with his wife Laurie. He was recently in Omaha and stopped in to see Ray Griggs. Ray is coaching the Creighton University women’s rowing team and having a blast. Pete Jerome is also retired and hosted a small 26th Company mini reunion in June near the Boston area. In attendance were Greg Miller, Pete Gaskill, Mike Kane and Brad Konopik. Semper Fi- JTR

Russ Granier rjgranier@gmail.com, recently had a great visit with the Great Mike Ales and his wife Pam as they traveled through Baton Rouge during the Holidays. Mike was his honors chemistry lab partner during plebe year and remains a dear and loyal friend. Russ said, “I would not have made it through that class without his generous tutoring and patience.” Mike recently retired as an associate professor of Marine Engineering at the US Merchant Marine Academy.

CELEBRATING OUR 30TH YEAR!

Join us at the Chicago SACC as we celebrate the tradition of assisting alumni to network, make career transitions and hire fellow alumni.

Chicago, IL 9-10 May 2024 www.sacc-jobfair.com

Jill Hawkins Votaw, jvotaw@san.rr.com wrote in with a great update from San Diego and a wonderful moment in Academy History.

M Greetings Joe,

A group of ’80 got together with the San Diego USNAAA for the Army-Navy game. The game was a bust, but as always it was great seeing Classmates!

In January two of our Classmates, Becky (Olds) Craig and Sharon (Hanly) Disher were honored to attend the Change of Command for our new Superintendent, VADM Yvette Davids (’89). VADM Davids honored the women of ’80 in her remarks by saying that the (Class of ’80) “were the trailblazers that sailed over benchmarked waters and set a path for women in the Naval Academy to follow.” The women of our Class have decided (at the suggestion of CJ Rayhill) to send a large bouquet of congratulations flowers to VADM Davids’ office the week after her COC. We hope she will enjoy them and know how proud we all are of her, our first female Supe! BEAT ARMY!!! – Jill

What a fantastic moment in the history of the Nation, the Naval Academy, and the Great Class of 1980. Our Class, and specifically the incredible Women of ’80, broke down many barriers and set a new standard that is carried forward to today. Thank you to the entire Class, and for Sharon and Becky who represented us all at this historic moment! Bravo Zulu! Truly, “Steppin’ Out with ’80!”

Dale Lumme, kid.lumme@1980.usna.com, also sent in this update:

M Joe, had a few interactions with Classmates. I hosted a symposium, “learing from the Past to Build the Future Fleet,” which was attended by RADM Sam Cox, USN (Ret) (my USNA Summer training roommate), and Randy Langmead Sam Cox was very eloquent and provided thoughtful remarks!!

I also recently attended a Forestall Lecture (remember those…?) with VADM Frank Pandolfe (Ret.).

Dale Lumme and Frank Pandolfe

2023 has come to a close. Many wonderful moments, many new beginnings with retirement, grandchildren, weddings and far too many funerals. We will miss those whom we have lost, hopefully connect with those who are still with us, and encourage those who are following in our footsteps. We are planning for the 45th, setting up the CACO plan, working on the sponsorship of CVN-80, bracing for “Another Link in the Chain” and mastering our new Tailgating plan. Support Groups are emerging, and Company Reps are busy pulling everyone together. ’80 are you out there?

Time to engage! It’s now 2024 – a whole new world awaits….

In closing, I hope that this note finds you healthy, happy, and wiser today than yesterday. Take a few minutes to renew a friendship, call / visit / text / zoom a Classmate and take care of each other; you never know what a difference you can make!

Russ and Mike

(L-R in photo) Carl and Leslie Bunker, Danny and Tina Archer, Barbette Lowndes, Jill Votaw, and John Spencer.

Yvette Davids at the COC

’81

Life Membership: 95%

Donor Participation: 24.53%

Pres: Kevin Haney

e: kjhaney2@me.com

Vice Pres: George Basil

e: gbasil99@yahoo.com

Treas: Gene Juba

e: genejuba@yahoo.com

Co-Sec’ys: Frank Moreman and Bubba Turman e: Classof81Secretary@gmail.com

Webmaster: Patty Crandlemire Whitney

Website: www.usna1981.org

Classwide messages: usna1981@yahoogroups.com

For most of you, I’d say Spring is here and we hope you’re thawing out in grand fashion. It may be warming up as you’re reading, but as Frank and I are putting this Class of ’81 Shipmate column together, it’s in the throes of winter and it’s cold and dreary in the greater Annapolis area and I’m sure San Francisco ain’t much better. Anyway, the class co-secretaries, Frank and Bubba, hope your Holidays were full of family and fun and the New Year is off to a great start. Ok, we’ll include the other folks as well. Kevin, George, Gene, and Patty wish you a Happy New Year too.

Our first duty of the year is to mark the passing of another of our classmates. Mike Foertch (04), passed away on December 17, 2023. Mike left during plebe year, but will be remembered as a good friend and nice guy.

Back on December 8th, Wreaths Across America was held for the 11th time at the Naval Academy cemetery and columbarium. The weather was chilly but thankfully the rain held off until later in the day. Carol Turman (30th Company Color Girl), continued her duties as the Coordinator for this powerful and heartwarming event and the acting Superintendent, Admiral Fred Kacher (Class of ’90) and his wife Pam were there as well to pay tribute to the heroes buried there. The Class of ’81 led the way again with a significant class donation and numerous individual donations. The strong backs and weak minds of Corky Vazquez (36), Jaime Navarro (03), Bill McGuinness (28), Bubba Turman (30), and Mike Farrington (28) shuffled wreaths around and cleaned up the hundreds of empty cardboard boxes. Bill McGuinness was the architect of USNA spelled out on the side of the hill with around 200 wreaths. Here’s a picture of the work crew.

Editor’s note: I know 30th Company did not win the Color Company, but if we had, Carol would have been the “girl.” After reviewing the Lucky Bag I couldn’t find anywhere in there what company actually won it, so my apologies to the stellar leaders who actually earned it.

As is usually the case, the mailbag is empty when the year starts, so in keeping with our self imposed charter to make sure everyone has an equal chance to be mentioned in our article, I exercised my data collecting OCD and determined that the 33rd Company had been mentioned the least times during Bubba and my tenure as scribes. We’re going to correct that here by highlighting the 33rd Company. We scoured all public social media platforms to gather this information and these pictures. My apologies in advance if some of the information is dated or inaccurate.

Here we go:

Phillip Antonino lives with his wife Sylvia in Wilmington, NC.

Shawn Bodkin lives in Germantown, TN with his wife Alison and works for American Standard as an Account Executive.

Tom Boyce went subs, transferred to Reserves in ’88 and stayed to 30. He has worked at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for 30+ years. Tom and Joanne live in Portland, ME. Still jogging and Skiing. He has one two year old granddaughter.

Ted Carter flew P-3s and had a Navy career of 32 years, including a cool tour as base XO in Iceland. He has stayed active in shooting his whole life and is on the board of the National Rifle Association and president of the Florida Sport Shooting Association. He and Sue live close to his two daughters in Jacksonville, FL.

Ted Carter and Sue with some of their girls

Mark Comtois lives in Alexandria, VA with his wife Marian Major and is a partner and patent lawyer at Duane Morris, LLP. He earned his law degree from George Mason University, Antonin Scalia Law School. Mark was a nuke

and then worked for several years as an engineer before going to law school. He has deep experience in instituting and managing global intellectual property protection programs for large national and multinational organizations across a wide range of sophisticated technologies.

Louis Cooper went subs and left after his first tour to attend Harvard Business School. After a successful career at Morgan Stanley and Deutsche Bank and running Anvil Capital Partners, a public securities hedge fund, he changed careers at 45 to attend medical school and currently serves as an emergency room physician at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Louis and wife Susan Berger-Jones live in Brooklyn. Louis is also an accomplished artist as a glass blower and painter.

Garrett Dalhoff, who left during Youngster year is retired after more than 30 years as a school psychologist and living with his wife Camilla in New London, MN. Garrett has 8 children and 12 grandchildren.

Mike Dolan is married to Maura and is executive vice president, general counsel & secretary at Alpha Corporation, focused on commercial litigation, labor and employment law. He got his JD from Catholic University of America’s Columbus School of Law.

Mark Donahue (Fatman) met his wife Ruth while at SWOS in San Diego. They live in Middleton, RI. Mark got his Masters in National Security and Strategic Studies at the Naval War College and was the NAPS Cross Country Coach for ten years. He is currently working as a teacher in the Newport, RI Public Schools.

MATCHING GIFTS

Call 410-295-4178 to find out how you can match your recent contribution.

Jaime, Mike, Bubba, Corky, and Bill (the architect)

Tom Boyce and Joanne

Mark Comtois Louis Cooper

Garrett Dalhoff and Camilla with grandchild

Mike Dolan

Mark and Ruth Donahue

Ted Dumbauld got an MBA from MIT Sloan School and then went into subs. After the Navy, he has had a successful business career, first in banking and then with several CEO roles. He is also the founder of SoNo 1420 America’s Maritime Distillery. I highly recommend you watch the following Youtube video highlighting Ted’s business: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=3aAYSWnFHcQ

Ted Dumbauld outside his distillery, SoNo 1420 Greg Folley was medically disqualified after two years which kept him from graduating with us. That didn’t slow him down, however, from getting a BA in Economics and a JD, both from Notre Dame and then having a great career as a senior executive at Caterpillar. In retirement, he is the chairman of the local city council on Marco Island in Florida. He has 9 children, his wife Margo has 2, and between them they have 11 grandchildren. He is now running for Florida State Representative in (you guessed it) District 81.

Margo and Greg Folley

Don Galaska lives with wife, Bitsy in Boyertown, PA and has worked at Nokia for 14 years as Director of Global Customer Care.

Don Galaska and Bitsy with grandkids

Paul Grenseman is a former Marine and lives with wife Anne in Visalia, CA

Ned Hunter flew P-3s before getting out to have a very eclectic and entrepreneurial civilian career with several companies, some that he founded and ran. He is currently working at Apple in Business Development and lives in Cary, NC with wife Susan. They have three children and nine grandchildren.

Steve Kauffman went Navy Air and flies for a commercial airline and lives in Orlando, FL.

Brian Kissel went subs and visited the Titanic before almost anyone else. Brian got his MBA at Stanford and has had an illustrious business career including two CEO jobs. He now spends his time volunteering and consulting with nonprofits focused on climate change and environmental sustainability. He lives in Menlo Park, CA with wife Lizzie. They have one child who lives in Portland.

Brian Kissel with yours truly (Scribe Frank)

Matt McLaughlin lives with his wife, Debbie in Bedford, NH and flies for Northwest Airlines.

Matt and Debbie McLaughlin with the grandkids

Mark Mervine lives in Keene, NH. He went subs and retired from the reserves in 2010.

Mark has worked at Staples for 24 years, most recently as director of Global IT Infrastructure.

Ted Morse lives in Virginia Beach, VA with wife Kimberly and is a pilot with United Airlines.

Don Mueth went Navy Air and flies for a commercial airline. He lives in Merritt Island, FL.

Mark Newcomb lives in Williamsburg, VA with wife Joan. He earned a law degree from William & Mary in 1988 and stayed in the Navy until 2001 as a JAG. He is currently vice president and general counsel at Zim American Integrated Shipping Services Company.

Mark Newcomb and family

Kevin O’Connell lives in Boston, MA

Kevin Redfern and wife Theresa have four children and three granddaughters and live in Saline, MI. Kevin flies for Delta and rides motorcycles and scuba dives in his free time.

Pat Smith flew Helos and had a full career. After retiring he stayed close to the Navy with several civilian jobs supporting the Fleet. He and Shelley live in Norfolk, VA. and have two married children, Courtney and Spencer.

Marc Violante lives in Stevens Point, WI and is the director, Federal Market Strategies at Wisconsin Procurement Institute.

Frank Voler lives in Reinholds, PA. He earned his law degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is a trial attorney at Bern Cappelli Firm in Philadelphia. Frank has extensive experience in litigating personal injury cases, including wrongful death, drunk driver, commercial trucking, and appellate cases.

Brad Ward went subs and met his wife, Mary on his first tour. They have two children, Kris and Rowan who are both well launched as adults. Brad and Mary enjoy biking, sailing, and wine tasting. Brad has had an interesting civilian career and is currently a director of strategy at BAE Systems.

In closing, the Class of 1981 would like to say congratulations to the former “Old Goat.” Frank Caldwell (08) retired on 10 January in a ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard. It was great that Frank retired as the Director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, but more importantly, he was the longest serving USNA graduate on active duty (Goat). Job well done Admiral and we wish fair winds and following seas to you and Kim. The photo is with the Honorable Carlos Del Toro (Class of ’83), Secretary of the Navy.

with grandkids

’82

Life Membership: 97%

Donor Participation: 24.79%

Pres: CDR Janeann Treadway Conley, USN (Ret.) p: 410-251-7893; e: Jtcnaples@yahoo.com

Vice Pres: CAPT Matt Moury, USN (Ret.) p: 410-263-7640; e: vicepresident@usna82.org

Treas: VADM Terry Benedict, USN (Ret.) p: 703-913-7183; e: treasurer@usna82.org

Corr Sec’y: CDR Mark Shields, USN (Ret.) 3 High Meadow Ln., Newark, DE 19711 p: 302-234-0835; c: 302-229-1085; e: m.shields75@yahoo.com

Website: http://1982.usnaclasses.net

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/USNA82

Greetings to the great class of ’82!

Congratulations on surviving the “dark ages’’ and emerging into the sunshine of late March or early April! I am writing this, my final column, in early January, still bitter about our football loss to those Black Knights on the Hudson. And to think that I actually felt a bit sorry for the Woops during our 14-year win streak, which now seems like a distant memory. After 3 years as your class scribe, I recently requested to be relieved. Despite once being told by an upperclassman that NAVY was an acronym for Never Again Volunteer Yourself, one classmate stepped forward. More on that later, but first to empty my mailbag:

Many of our classmates would make Heinz Lenz proud, including Jeff Hughes (30):

M “Mark, On 19 September, I completed a 25-day thru hike of the 273-mile long Vermont Long Trail. The trail, the oldest in the nation, starts at the Massachusetts border, overlapping the AT for 105 miles, and finishes at the Canadian border, going over 40 or so summits and peaks of Vermont’s Green Mountain Range, including Killington, Mount Manchester and Jay Peak. I was fortunate enough to have my daughter Kate and her fiancé Dan (both Navy LTs) join me for the middle 50 miles. Great trip, beautiful scenery, and some extremely challenging days. Amy was critical to my logistics and encouragement. Ran into many vets along the way. Happy to represent USNA on the trail!”

Received the following from Matt Sharpe (13):

M “George Miller USNA Class of ’63 commanded the nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser USS TEXAS CGN 39 in the mid 1980s. Under his leadership, his officers bonded and have remained tight ever since. We meet by Zoom monthly and we got together in the Texas hill country this weekend, October 6-8.”

Rett Rasmussen (21) forwarded the following press release regarding our distinguished classmate Phil Davidson (6):

M “The National Museum of the Surface Navy, founded aboard Battleship USS IOWA and scheduled to open in 2025, today named retired Navy Admiral Philip S. Davidson as the recipient of the 2023 Freedom of the Seas Award. The Freedom of the Seas award goes to an accomplished individual who embodies the core principles of America’s Surface Navy to protect and defend our oceans for the benefit of the free world. Admiral Davidson is the former 25th commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), America’s oldest and largest military combatant command. USINDOPACOM includes 380,000 soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen, Coast Guardsman, and Department of Defense civilians, and is responsible for all U.S military activities in the Indo-Pacific, covering 36 nations, 14 time zones, and more than 50% of the world’s population.”

Jeff at the end of the trail

A view from the trail

Jeff, Kate and Dan

Our 2023 award winner!

’82: Former U.S.S. TEXAS officers reunite. From left to right: Eric Ringwall Cornell NROTC 1986, Tim Flanagan Notre Dame NROTC 1986, Pat Carroll Notre Dame NROTC 1984, Chris Hatfield Notre Dame NROTC 1983, Doug Grossmann USNA 1985, Ian Benson Minnesota OCS 1983, George Miller USNA 1963, Steve Snider MIT NROTC 1982, Bruce Groth Willamette OCS 1985, Matt Sharpe USNA 1982, Dan Hendricks USNA1983, Dave Hulse Penn State NROTC 1982, Kevin Apel Iowa State NROTC 1983.

What a great and deserved award! Speaking of huge awards and distinguished classmates, Michelle Howard (23) was recently honored as well:

M “It’s Michelle J. Howard. Yesterday, I was inducted into the National Portrait Gallery, along with the other first four-star women Generals in the Army and Air Force. Our photographic portraits are in the 20th Century Americans Exhibit.”

Bob Osman, a graduate of the class of ’60, sent me the following regarding Steve Schulte (34): M “Dear Mark, Bob Osmon here, class of 1960. Your classmate, CDR. Steve Schulte, this summer completed 20 years of service as the Director of the NJROTC unit at my old high school, Zion-Benton of Zion, IL. During this period his unit was recognized by numerous awards and honors. In 2016 the Zion NJROTC was selected as the “Unit of the Year”. The Secretary of the Navy was there to present this honor. Additionally they won many awards for their rifle team and marching unit. Finally, he was most instrumental in helping numerous cadets be selected for appointment to our beloved institution. I was fortunate enough to get the chance to congratulate him on his dedicated service in August and thought members of your class might like to know the amazing

job he did. He is now retired in Lake Forest, IL. God bless.

Smooth

Received the following from our class Prez, Jane Conley (7):

M “Christening of the “Class of 1982”. This event brought together past and present, celebrating the spirit of camaraderie, dedication, and the timeless bond that our class enjoys. The women’s crew team was so grateful for this unique boat. Not only is the “Class of 1982” endowed in perpetuity for future generations, it also commemorates not just one, but all three ‘82 crew programs that thrived within the boat house walls.”

Rick Stein (18) checked in with the following: M “I recently traveled to Virginia Beach from Charleston to greet grandchild #3. While there, I watched Navy vs. UAB at Shorebreak, and was joined by 18th Company mates.”

Just before the big game in December, Ken Carodine (13) sent in a pic of his adorable Granddaughter ready to support the Mids:

Ken’s sweetheart cheering for Navy

A previous edition of Shipmate printed an incorrect photo of a classmate encounter between Scott Negus (24) and Mark Converse (31). Here is the correct pic:

Mark and Scott in the Empire state

As mentioned at the start of the column, this is my final column as your class scribe. I have truly enjoyed reconnecting with so many classmates over the past three years and continue to be amazed by ‘82’s legacy as well as the continued accomplishments and

sailing! Beat Army!!”

Bob Osman ’60 with Steve in front of a plaque listing USNA grads from Zion High School.

A quartet from 18th. Left to right: Pat O’Donnell, Rick, Mark Rios and Matt Maxwell

Michelle’s portrait!

’82: A sizable contingent of ’82 attended the christening!

adventures of members of our great class. Frequent retirement travels, often to destinations with spotty connectivity, make my continuing in the scribe role a bit problematic. Although I was prepared to continue the duties for as long as needed, I am extremely grateful to one classmate who quickly agreed to relieve me. It is a comeback story that rivals Michael Jordan’s return to the NBA in 1995, Ali’s stunning “Rumble in the Jungle” victory over Foreman in 1974, and Rocky Balboa’s defeat of Apollo Creed in Rocky II. Drumroll please! Your new class scribe is none other than Rett “I’ll be back!” Rassmussen (21)! Yes, after 12 years as class scribe, Rett has re-upped and he doesn’t even need any training. I am pretty sure that Rett’s return also continues 4th Battalion’s monopoly of this job. I will forward any input that I receive, but please now submit to Rett@Rasmussen.biz. Enjoy the Spring!

As always, looking good ‘82!

Mark

82/83

A little belated but Happy New Year Class of ’83! We are well into 2024 and there is A LOT going on in the world. The good news is that classmate Carlos Del Toro is keeping our Navy ready.

If you are in the area and can attend a Navy Tailgater, you might be surprised who you meet. Alan Mangan (23rd Co.) sends this photo of the four Class of 1983 Heavyweight Crew coxswains. Alan wrote “We coincidentally walked into one another during the tailgater - it was meant to be… and old tales were retold!”

’83

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 27.70%

Pres: Steve Fischer

Fredericksburg, VA

p: 540-840-7051; e: slf83usna@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Barbara Bell, Ed.D, CAPT, USN (Ret.)

Treas: Joe Spruil

p: 703-579-6275; e: usna1983Treasurer@gmail.com

Sec’y and Shipmate Contact: CAPT Jeff Currer, USN (Ret.) 6119 Dory Lane Ct., Burke, VA 22015 c: 703-579-7846; e: 83shipmate@gmail.com

Communications Director: Mike Philbrook e: michael.philbrookr@1983.usna.com

Facebook: USNA 1983

LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/83

Website: http://1983.us

Speaking of Tailgaters, and as you know, the 40th Reunion’s Tailgater was quite memorable and an opportunity for almost entire Companies to reunite. Steve Lewia recants “Nine members of the 31st company enjoyed a great time at the 40th reunion. The goats are looking old but our memories of good times and friendships decades ago have not faded. It was like we graduated yesterday! … We all look forward to the next reunion where we will look even older but hopefully by then Navy will have a better football team!”

If you cannot make a game and/or Tailgater, there are other opportunities to connect. John Houfek writes “A few of us Fun One alum informally meet one Saturday a month for lunch and guests from 83 are welcome! Typically, Jerome Clark, Bob Girrier, Keith Phillips, Bret Hicks and I meet and any other Fun One or 83ers are welcome. Typically, I coordinate it, so feel free to reach out to me at hooyah83@ gmail.com.” Let me know if any other Company Reps or groups are doing something similar and I’ll share!

Joe Tofalo reported in, retiring from

’83: Front L-R, Carl Lee, Stephen Lewia, Ed Rahme, and Bob Barhite. Back L-R Steve Fisher, Randy Gross, Rick Schieke, Jim Bohrs, and Carl Wagner

’83: Phil - My last USW class at NPS

Dana Weiner, Joe Nangle, Alan Mangan and Ken D’Aurizio

Jeff – the good looking one in the middle

Huntington Ingalls in December. Joe wrote: “Joe Tofalo here, checking in from Chagrin Falls, OH (outside of Cleveland) where Suzanne and I have settled following “second retirement” and five great years with HII in the DC area. All of our kids and grandkids are there, so the family draw is strong to be here for this next phase. If any classmates are ever in the area, please let me know! All the best, Joe.”

As I understand it, Joe is getting heavily into woodworking. If anyone has advice to share in that arena, please share, just to ensure Joe keeps all his digits! Phil Sawyer, another classmate finishing up a second career wrote “After I retired in 2021, I worked as the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) USW Chair and Professor of Practice. I recently stepped down from full-time employment as the USW Chair and Professor of Practice and am now a ‘Senior Advisor’ to the NPS President, VADM (Ret.) Ann Rondeau. During my active-duty years, I visited NPS but did not attend as a student. I wish I had as it’s a great institution located in gorgeous Monterey CA. Attached picture is of my last USW class at NPS. My wife and I reside in Prescott, AZ. Prescott is a small town in northern AZ – weather more like Denver CO than Phoenix. I now travel fairly often to Hawaii and DC and look forward to being able to catch-up with Classmates in these locales. If any are making a trip to the Grand Canyon or Phoenix, give me a holler. Stay well and safe!”

I think most know that the ’83 Ride Across America was a tremendous event that culminated at the reunion. Just to prove that they are not a “One Show Pony” Scott Watson writes “Looking to have a great time with classmates, get in terrific shape and raise funds biking for many terrific veteran causes? Join us Oct 4-13 when USNA83 navy-cycling.com team rides across and through the great state of Alabama in the BamaRama500. Shown here are at a high level ride planning session at Daufuskie Island, SC with Col Alan Mangan, USMC and his beautiful bride Elliana and my Nice Lady Lynne! Come join us - email me at scottwatson83@ gmail.com or cell 205-999-3977 to ride, support, or sponsor!

“The Fearsome Foursome”

Last, but not least, my wife Merial and I wanted to share one of our recent events that we think has made a difference. Back in 2013 we founded a Non-profit, Patriots for Disabled Divers (PFDD). We’ve worked with over 1000 injured veterans since the start, teaching them to scuba dive and leading them on dive excursions. We’ve seen some amazing

transformations; Veterans with various physical and/or cognitive challenges conquer the training and socialize with others as they share their adventures with dive buddies. Teaming with the Georgia Aquarium’s Veteran Immersion Program, Merial and I recently lead a group of seven Veterans on a dive in the aquarium, complete with a couple of Whale Sharks. The veterans were energized and ready for the “Next Adventure!” We have four more of these events in 2024. I know there are other classmates out there making a difference. Please share your endeavors with us! Its just one more facet of the class that makes ’83 “A Class Act.”

Let us know what you have going on by sharing the news to 83shipmate@gmail.com

’84

Life Membership: 100%

Donor Participation: 54.41%

Pres: Mr. Brian D. Goodrow e: goodrow2@comcast.net

Vice Pres: Karen M. Halverson e: dkhalvy@earthlink.net

Treas: Mr. Stephen J. Shepherd e: stephenjamesshepherd@gmail.com

Sec’y/Shipmate Contact: Kevin Monahan 428 Santa Mesa Dr., San Jose, CA 95123 p: 408-624-0773; e: kevin_monahan@comcast.net

Website: www.usna84.org

First off, sad news to pass, Harry Ward died suddenly in an accident on December 15, 2023, in Annapolis. He is survived by his wife Suzanne (Suzy) Ward and her son Jack; Harry’s son Brittain, daughter Tayler, son-in-law Miles Coffin and granddaughter Goldie Coffin; mother Simone Ward; brothers Tom, Dick, Jason and Jonathan Ward; sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Harry graduated from Gouverneur NY High School in 1978 and from Bridgeton Academy in 1979 as class Valedictorian. He played Rugby for Navy, was the 6th Battalion Commander and a proud member of the 34th Company (Club 34). Harry served 20 years in the Marine Corps as a Naval Flight Officer in A6’s, F/A-18’s and Tornado F-3’s during a Royal Air Force Exchange tour in Scotland. Harry also served as a forward air controller with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines in The Persian Gulf War and received a Masters of Science from The Naval Post Graduate School.

Ross Baker grew up near Harry in Upstate NY and lived downstairs in 8th Wing with 36th Company. They attended The Basic School with The USNA Grad Fox Company Smooth Operators, and despite different paths through Naval Aviation Training, were together for A-6 Training at NAS Whidbey Island. Reconnecting in 1995 at VMFAT-101 for transition to F/A18D’s, Harry and Ross served in VMFA(AW)224 from 1995-98, flying hundreds of hours together as a crew then attended Naval Post Graduate School together in Monterey, spending nearly as much time studying as on their boats in Monterey Bay with their families.

Bill O’Connell, Steve McGaugh and Harry formed ‘The Senior Chiefs’, so named for their NAPS mentor, and held court at Storm Brothers Ice cream, Dahlgren Hall and points North. The ‘Seniors’ stories are classified and the pictures are not well focused, but Harry is remembered as a leader, the guy who the time was always right for and remained positive and motivated with that distinctive Harry Ward “Senior” smile.

Chris Acquilino, currently Commander, United States Indo-Pacific Command added the prestigious designation as The Old Goat, an honor presented to the longest-serving United States Naval Academy graduate on active duty. This accolade pays tribute to their enduring commitment and service and was passed in January from ADM Frank Caldwell ‘81 who after over 45 years has finally dealt with his last Plebe.

Speaking of 8th Wing…

Pride of The 8th Wing 33rd Company spent Army Navy Weekend in Worcester MA, podunk of Herd sage Sean Sullivan. Paying homage to Engine 6 Worcester Fire Department are Sean Sullivan, Bill O’Connell, Jim Hinen, Steve Young and Mike Pitpit, each as close to Academy Weight as the next guy…

Harry Ward at The Tailgate

Chris Acquilino and Frank Caldwell ’81

40th Reunion October 17-20, 2024

A link will be coming via email and the class Facebook page in the next few weeks, and as The Academy confirms times for our event venue requests we will update the site accordingly.

A broad brush of events forwarded from Brian and reduced to a finger painting at the events desk of the Class Of ’84 Shipmate

Column offices:

Thursday 10/17

Check in begins in the afternoon at Fluegel Alumni Center and will be available there through Friday. Please plan to check in as early as possible. We will have check in at the Game but it will not be available all day.

Mid Store Shopping open to Alumni through Saturday as well.

Friday 10/18

Memorial Service in Memorial Hall morning, Class Meeting - morning

Luncheon (at lunch time…)

Superintendent’s Brief after lunch afternoon Dress Parade on Worden Field, Class Cocktail Reception at Fluegel Alumni Center in the evening

Saturday 10/19 Fun Run on the Yard in the morning

Class of ’84 Tailgate and Football Game (TBD- Game time has not been finalized). More detail as USNA de-conflicts priorities/requests.

Sunday 10/20

Brunch in King Hall- Great opportunity for Company Get togethers. Sign up on the registration site.

Reunion Hotel Reservations- Though all reunion-related events are planned on the Yard, Fluegel Alumni Center or at the Stadium, we do have a small block of rooms at the Westin Hotel. That hotel is on West Street within walking distance for many to downtown and the stadium. The largest block of rooms is for Thursday evening to Sunday, and there is a smaller block of rooms reserved for only Friday and Saturday nights. Though we negotiated a pretty good rate ($359/night) and cancelation policy for those signing up, if reservations are cancelled and not used, it might result in our contracted minimums not being met. It also could result in a classmate who needs a room not being able to get one. And please use the link so that it counts towards our class minimum. If you call the Westin (vice using the link), let them know to book from the USNA Class of

1984 block. Other options to find a place to stay include Annapolis Accommodations, a local company that manages local properties, and of course there are the Air B and B types of sites.

We could still use volunteers to help out with different committees and check in desk duty (not all weekend and you get to see everyone all excited.) More gouge and registration info with be sent out in Spring. Also a reminder that we will hold Class Officer Elections this Summer so if you are interested, please contact the current Class Officers for information about the position. Brian will send out details and procedures. Have a great Spring!

’85

Life Membership: 95%

Donor Participation: 21.16%

Pres: Bob Smith

1009 Caiman Ct., Sellersburg, IN 47172 p: 502-432-6185; e: robertsmith5@att.net

Vice Pres: Stephen J. Pimpo e: sjpimpo@comcast.net

Corr Sec’y: Vic Otero

Class,

I want everyone to know of a cause that Class of 85 has been involved with over the last few years.

Bianchi Memorial

The Bianchi Memorial Fund was established in 2017 to keep the memory of our classmate Kevin Bianchi, and his brother Bobby ’83, alive. Both earned their wings and served as helicopter pilots. Kevin was involved in a helicopter crash on 16 July 2003 in Sigonella Sicily. Bobby also lost his life in a helicopter accident in 1987. The fund is driven by an annual golf outing with proceeds donated to families who have lost military members. Stories and testimonials will be shared in a future article.

The event has hosted an average of over 100 golfers per year. This past September, the 7th annual golf event was held at Bulle Rock in Maryland. This fund was started and is led by Frank Proctor ’85, Kevin’s company mate, and Barrie Bianchi, Kevin’s widow. Frank has dedicated endless hours to establish and build this annual event; he can be reached at fproctor@connorstrong.com. Please see bianchimemorailfund.org to donate and find more information about this great cause.

Any interest in getting involved or helping out please contact Frank.

Go Navy VO

MERCHANDISE

To order your class, chapter or parent club specific merchandise, visit usna.com/shop

’86

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 18.62%

Pres: Michael Cadwell p: 505-400-3406; e: michael.cadwell@accenture.com

Vice Pres: RADM Jim McNeal, USN SC (Ret.) e: jamesm@ispards.com

Treas: CDR J.T. Young, USNR (Ret.) e: jty2664@gmail.com

Sec’y: CAPT Todd Wagner, MC, USN (Ret.) e: todd.wagner86@gmail.com

Corr Sec’y: Mike Althouse p: 410-688-9060; e: mike.althouse@gmail.com

Three submissions this issue!

Pat Hoffman provided the following:

M Just sending a quick Navy/Army Game 2023 update. As hard as the finish was, the beginning was 180 degrees the opposite…incredible!

First, I wish “America’s Game” were held in Philly every year – but I guess that is why our game has the honor and appeal of truly being America’s Game being held in different cities. This year’s pre-kick-off was one for the memory books! Not only was it a great time connecting with some classmates and family for this year’s game…

Our son, Patrick, Jr. ’17 was honored to be selected to be one of the pilots for the flyover. He is assigned to VFA-11, The Red Rippers, out of Oceana, VA. Surreal is an understatement much less if you would have asked me on our I-Day…I would have lost that bet! The event provided Stacey and me (plus our daughter Kelly) great opportunity to enjoy the festivities as well as connect with my company mate Jim Adkins and his wife, Mary (Fun One), Steve Wisotski (7th Co), my little brother, Chris Hoffman ’96 and his wife, Krissy, and of course our son, Patrick ’17 with our daughter-in-law, Katrina…as they are expecting our first grandchild in early February! Very exciting times in the H Household!

(L to R) Jim Adkins, Patrick Hoffman ‘17, Pat Hoffman and Steve Wisotski

We had a blast and the weather held out! Patrick shared if the flyover were 20 minutes later, it probably would not have gone off, cloud cover would have been too low.

Additionally, Erich Sauerbrey (8th), Dan Beldy (33rd) and Brian Solo (17th) also made it to Boston – but with the (different) Gillette Stadium venue…I could not make a get-together occur.

33rd Herd in Worcester

Here’s to next season and as always…. Go Navy! Beat Army! and Fly Navy!

The second submission is courtesy of Anthony Califano:

M It has been a minute since I wrote something for Shipmate but It has been a great last couple of months seeing classmates so I thought I would send an update:

In September, I traveled up to New Hampshire with VADM Jim Kilby and Ted Hassi to celebrate a surprise 60th birthday party for JT Young. Also in attendance was Gordon Fogg and Will Hall ‘83 who was a firstie in our beloved 35th Company. JT had all his children and his sisters there to help celebrate as well as a great group of neighbors and friends from VA-72. Bonfires, brown water, cigars and great stories. A great time was had by all.

I had the distinct honor and pleasure to induct JT into the Hall and I could not be prouder of JT and Dave for being the first of our class to be inducted. Will Hall ‘83, Tom Kolongowski, Tommy Monks and Joel Lautrup were present as well. We attended the Rugby banquet after

the ceremony and celebrated the Men’s Rugby Team’s National Championship in their first year as a varsity sport. A tremendous event that was the result of a lot of hard work and effort by the USNA Rugby Alumni and HOF committee. Well Done to all!

Congratulations to VADM Jim Kilby for his nomination to four stars and selection to be the Vice Chief of Naval Operations. I believe he is the first in our class to be selected to four

Ted Hassi, Jim Kilby, Will Hall (’83), Tony Califano and JT Young

In October, VADM Jim Kilby, Ted Hassi and I went to support JT Young and Dave Long as inductees into the USNA Rugby Hall of Fame.

JT Young speaks at his USNA Rugby HOF induction

JT Young, Rob Sinram (’99) and Dave Long

’86: Front row: Doug Kibbey, Earl Totty, Bernie Klosowski, Nels Swanson, Jeff Davila and Jimmy Pitts; Back row: Adam Meinrod, Mike Lupton, Kevin Windbigler, Mark Johnson, Alex Ospina and Brian Quinlan.

’86: Family left to right: Grace Windbigler, Michele Lupton, Allie Lupton, Karen Totty, Deidre Klosowski, Jeanette Swanson, Lupita Ospina, MaryAnne Pitts, Kathy Quinlan, Lauren and Amanda Ospina. ’86ers left to right: Doug Kibby, Adam Meinrod, Earl Totty, Kevin Windbigler, Bernie Klosowski, Mark Johnson, Nels Swanson, Alex Ospina, Jeff Davila, Brian Quinlan and Jimmy Pitts.

’86: (L to R) Chris ’96, son Sean, Krissy Hoffman, Pat Hoffman, Stacey Hoffman, Patrick Hoffman ’17, Katrina Hoffman, Mary Adkins, Jim Adkins and Kelly Hoffman

’86: L to R) Kelly Hoffman, Stacey Hoffman, Patrick Hoffman ’17, Katrina Hoffman and Pat Hoffman

86/87

stars and it could not have happened to a better person. Hopefully by the time this is printed, he will have been confirmed by the Senate and will be in the job. We all know what a terrific Naval Officer he is, and he will do a great job for our Navy.

Keep that content coming, ’86!

Finally, from Kevin Windbigler: M Early in 2023, Mark Johnson sounded the call: “28, let’s meet at my house in Boston, and go to the Army-Navy game”. The following families were able to attend: MaryAnne and Jimmy Pitts, Jane and Mark Johnson, Jeff Davlia, Doug Kibbey, Deidre and Bernie Klosowski, Michele, Allie, and Mike Lupton, Adam Meinrod, Lupita, Lauren, Amanda, and Alex Ospina, Kathy and Brian Quinlan, Jeanette and Nels Swanson, Karen and Earl Totty, and Grace and Kevin Windbigler.

The weekend started on Thursday at Mark’s house. Jane, Mark’s wife, prepared a wonderful dinner for us. Of course, the sea stories began immediately from the classics from our time at the Academy to ones recently created.

On Friday, after breakfast, we went our separate ways to explore downtown Chatham, gathering again for dinner. During dinner, Jane presented each of us a picture book of photos from our days at the Academy. The highlight of the evening was celebrating VADM Pitts getting his third star. After dinner, we visited downtown Chatham for the “Christmas by the Sea Stroll.”

Gameday started early. Mark rented a bus so that we could travel to the game in style. It proved a sound decision once we saw game-day traffic. We arrived in time to see the pre-game ceremonies, including the march on. While we ended up on the short side of the game, nothing matches the experience of attending an Army-Navy game.

For most of us, Sunday was a day to travel home. We arrived safely home, glad to have spent time with friends and family, and ready to do it all again next year.

Thanks to Mark and Jane for organizing such an incredible weekend and helping live up to the third verse of Navy Blue and Gold.

Audemus Esse Magnos

CLASS SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES

Send to: classnews@usna.com

2024

’87

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 39.96%

Pres: Scott Herbener

e: president@usna87.net; p: 410-703-3519

Vice Pres: Tim Wolf

e: vpt@usna87.net

CFO: Chris Dunphy

e: finance@usna87.net

CFO: Steve Rowe

e: comms@usna87.net

CTO: Jason Hardebeck

e: tech@usna87.net

Shipmate columnist: Robert Pinataro

e: rpinataro87@gmail.com; p: 770-722-6373

Website: www.usna87.org

Hello Classmates,

By the time you receive this, hopefully spring will have sprung, and we will be enjoying a bit warmer weather. Big thanks to Pat Shea, Dale Szpisjak and Ronnie Harris for making time to share their news with us.

Dale Szpisjak joined the Dublin mission to support Navy’s battle against the Fighting Irish and sent a few great photos.

L to R: Dave Biddinger & Dale Szpisjak

L to R:

Ronnie Harris had a very successful first year coaching track and shared a few reflections.

M “A quick note about my first year of coaching. Although I will never achieve Al Cantello status, my first year coaching at Poway High School was a success. I had over

60 kids come out and we had a spectacular season. Greg Hill ’87 took me in when we competed at his High School’s Invitational at the end of September, allowing me to camp at his home near the course and to set up our Command Center as the team made their way from San Diego. The highlights of the season were the girls placing third in the Sweepstakes race at the Mt San Antonio College (Mt. Sac Invite) and finishing the season with a seventh-place finish in the CIF Division 1 State Cross Country Championships over Thanksgiving Weekend. With three freshmen and a sophomore returning, I plan to return and coach the girls and the boys again next year.

That is it from Cardiff by The Sea, California! Beat Army!”

~Ronnie Harris

Pat Shea sends his first Shipmate contribution with impressive news about another classmate…

M “Pat Shea (6th Co.) and VADM Luis Polar (4th Co.), PER Head of Navy send these pictures in from a pre-Thanksgiving Peruvian Navy hosted multi-national planning symposium held at the Peru Naval War College in Lima. In August, Luis was appointed Head of the Peruvian Navy and generously offered to host the first USNAVSOUTH UNITAS planning symposium for Western Hemisphere Navies. I serve as the Maritime Operations Executive Director on the NAVSOUTH staff and participated with Naval War College international staff professor, Ray “Pasta” Tortorelli ’90 (USNA) in the symposium. Many congratulations to Luis, as the first USNA graduate to rise to the role of Peru Head of Navy. The symposium reinforced that the bonds formed along the Severn are truly long-lasting.”

~Pat Shea

L to R: VADM Luis Polar (Peruvian Navy) and Pat Shea

Dale Szpisjak & son, David Szpisjak ‘24, future submariner

Please send your news to rpinataro87@gmail.com with “Shipmate” in the subject line.

2024 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Please check your CLASS and CHAPTER headers. Send us your updates. CLASS officers, email to: classnews@usna.com

CHAPTER officers, email to: chapternews@usna.com

SUMMER SEMINAR

Help that outstanding high school junior you know experience a busy week at USNA this June.

To apply online, visit usna.edu/Admissions.

’87: Coach Ronnie Harris and the Poway Boys & Girls Track Teams

’87: Coach Ronnie Harris and the Poway Girls Track Team

’87: VADM Luis Polar (Peruvian Navy) and Pat Shea at USNAVSOUTH UNITAS Planning Symposium in Lima, Peru

’88

Life Membership: 100%

Donor Participation: 16.98%

Pres: Jim Schwab

c: 714-787-6920; e: jschwab@crimstonepartners.com

Vice Pres Ops: Chris Bushnell

e: cjbushnell88@gmail.com

Vice Pres Comms: Laura Lee

e: lee.laura.s@gmail.com

Treas: Sam DiPaola

e: usna88treasury@aol.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/26441334505

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/groups/12437536

myUSNA: Class of 1988

Shipmate submissions: shipmate1988@gmail.com

Zoom link posted on all platforms

Ah, spring has sprung! I am always so excited once we turn the corner toward warmer weather. The daffodils bloom in the Lowcountry in February, shortly followed by the azaleas. It’s such a wonderful season before the tourists arrive in droves for the beach. What about y’all, ‘88? Drop me a note and let me know your favorite season where you live. We should start brainstorming a between-reunions trip somewhere. Perhaps our travel expert, classmate Lou Maldonado (13th co), could plan something for us?!

Certainly, we finally enjoyed some fabulous weather during our 35th back in the fall. Glorious, in fact, and about ten of us got together for a very memorable outing out on the Bay with Jim Schwab. I ran across this photo of the cruise - great timing! - and realized, why it’s none other than the new NAVSUP’s Chief Logistician - Aviation, our very own Chris Moser (14th co). ’88 is so proud of your new SES rank and your new position, Moser! Bravo Zulu!

And look who’s photobombing him, another classmate in the news: our class VP Ops, Chris Bushnell (34th co). Bush proudly took the helm as the Executive Director of the Surface Navy Association at their 36th Annual National Symposium in January. Impressive work, classmates!

Speaking of impressive, Missy Cummings, my Dirty 30 roomie for three years, is quite officially “Elon Musk’s Worst Nightmare.” Just search that phrase for a slew of articles! After setting up similar robotics labs at MIT, then

Duke, and serving as the Senior Safety Advisor to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Missy is now the Director of the Center for Robotics, Autonomous Systems, and Translational AI at George Mason University. Keep the pressure on, Missy! Thanks for your tremendous work; I think you raise the average IQ of our class by triple digits.

Michael Fornier (34th co) provides the laugh of the day, showing off his hilarious attempt at asking AI to “draw a Navy goat” for him. It wasn’t quite what he was expecting; nevertheless, priceless, and I would bet, the very first one!

Would you like to have one place online to find all the news and events related to USNA? Well, you’ve got three. Join our private ’88 Facebook or ’88 LinkedIn groups, and while I know it can be frustrating to keep USNAAA up to date, please head over to myUSNA.com to activate your account. You might need a new password, but it doesn’t take long, and then you’ll be back in the loop. Once you’re in, you can locate our private ’88 group, your local alumni chapter, and any Special Interest Group (“SIG”) that appeals to you. As for Shipmate, send in your photos, stories, news, and yes, even your AI art. Look forward to seeing them all! Grandbabies, anyone? Anyone?

Remember to “be a lamp, or a lifeboat, or a ladder.” You matter to more people than you realize. LL 88

Chris Bushnell photobombs Chris Mosher out on the Chesapeake Bay during our 35th reunion. Thanks to you both for your steadfast leadership of our Navy!

RADM Ken Epps, Commander NAVSUP and Chief of Supply Corps, swears in NAVSUPS’s new Chief Logistician - Aviation, Chris Mosher ’88.

CAPT (Ret.) Chris Bushnell '88 takes the helm as the Executive Director of the Surface Navy Association with (L to R): VADM Rick Hunt, (Ret.) SNA President; ADM Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations; and CAPT Bill Erikson '65, (Ret.) departing SNA Executive Director.

Classmates Steve Stuck and Mary Jackson (along with Bill Bray, Robin Tyner, and others not pictured) celebrate with Chris Bushnell as he takes over leadership of the SNA.

Digital art of classmate Missy Cummings by Chelsea Jia Feng, Business Insider.

Image of a “Navy goat” (!) created by Michael Fornier with the assistance of Dall-E 2.

A message from the President of the Class of 1988:

“I hope you are all doing well and 2024 is off to a strong start for each of you. A quick update on class priorities: First, and always at the top of the list, is Connection! Coming off an incredible 35th reunion weekend, we work to stay connected as a class through our class Facebook page, quarterly ’88 Wardroom Zoom meetings, Shipmate, myUSNA, and the efforts of so many who make the effort to bring classmates together around shared interests and geographic proximity.

In addition, we have 3 project priorities for this year. The first is our Class Memorial Committee. Dan O’Connor is leading this committee whose goal is to ensure that we appropriately honor those members of the ’88 family that are no longer with us. Secondly, we are working on instituting class bylaws to provide the class with a solid foundation of governance in all matters such as roles, responsibilities, and authorities of the officers, conduct of elections, and management of the treasury. Third, we are standing up a committee to lead our 40th reunion class project. Like our project for the 30th reunion, this effort will consist of identifying initiatives that support the mission of the Academy and raise money to support these initiatives. If you would like to be involved with any of these projects, please send me an email. We would love to have your input! Thank you, be well, and Beat Army!”

Jim

’89

Life Membership: 100%

Donor Participation: 26.07%

Pres: Denise (Shorey) Willert

Haendelstrasse 8, 46459 Rees, Germany

German p: 49 (0)170 960 4551

U.S. p: 1 757 386 7804

e: denise.willert@1989.usna.com

Corr Sec’y: Scott McFadden

e: scottmcfadden1989@gmail.com

Listserv: usna89@yahoogroups.org

Listserv Subscription: send a blank email to usna89-subscribe@yahoogroups.com from the address you wish listserv traffic to be sent

To Post a Message: write your message and send it to usna89@yahoogroups.com

Unsubscribe: send a blank message to usna89-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Webmaster: Ingar Grev

e: igrev@1989.usna.com

Classmates! 2024 is starting off like gangbusters for the great Class of 1989. Not to steal anyone’s thunder, I’ll let our class president, Denise (Shorey) Willert, get the ball rollin’!

M Hello everyone!

Wow, and wow again! What can I say but offer a million congratulations to VADM Yvette (Gonzalez) Davids and VADM Doug Perry for their recent assumptions of command as

USNA Superintendent and Commander, Second Fleet/Joint Force Command Norfolk. These events were epic and the party at McGarvey’s for Yvette, well, what can I say? Amazing, with many thanks to Ingar Grev for arranging the logistics and J.T. O’Farrell for so kindly inviting us all. The highlights of the evening were the remarks by Yvette and VADM Al Konetzni (Ret.), our Honorary Classmate who entertained us with his memories of our time together at the Naval Academy when we were .... shall I say it ... plebes??? Where did 40 years go??? Mrs. Kim Hill and Colonel Shupp, USMC (Ret.) and his wife Sherrye were also able to join us. What a wonderful two days for us all.

Other amazing classmates include VADM Brad Cooper, Commander, US Fifth Fleet; Jim Joyner and VADM Sara (Applegarth) Joyner, Pentagon J8 Branch; and LTGEN James Glynn, USMC, Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. I apologize for those I may have missed, and applaud every classmate on our roster who is a rising three-star, of which we have many. I am honored to be included among you as a member of the great class of 1989.

Our reunion plans are in full swing, and by the time you read this, we’ll know what weekend has been chosen, based on the football schedule. I’ll be sure to put that out in class email the minute it becomes available. If we can, we’ll make it every bit as wonderful as the 30th and will look forward to seeing many of you there!

The photos I’ve included in this issue of these amazing events are just a few of the many out there. We’re looking to find a spot to drop all photos and videos so everyone can enjoy — more to follow.

Until next time, Now’s the Time ’89!

Fondly, Denise

And here’s a couple of more pics Ingar Grev sent in (and posted to our FaceBook page) from the party at McGarvey’s, which was an awesome event by all accounts!

And from Bill Parkhurst:

M After the very tough news we have all weathered through the past few months on these pages, I wanted to share this bright moment. I attended a retreat in mid-January with a group of men from our parish at the Malvern Retreat House just west of Philadelphia. I was so happy to see the guest priest conducting a seminar and mass on the second day. Father James MacNew, Father Jim, Father Mac, Father Mach2...we all knew him by many names while he was a Catholic priest during our time at USNA.

After the seminar I stepped up to speak to him and wondered if he would remember me after all these years (36 years ago when he confirmed me at USNA). Like many of us, he is one-of-one to me, but I am one-of-many to him after a long career in the Navy. He saw my name tag and before I could speak, he leapt from behind the podium, remembered me, my name, company, and the rugby matches he attended!

If you are ever in the Philadelphia area

Father Jim is retired from the Navy and is currently the Chaplain for the Philadelphia Police Union. He told me his door is always open for a visit from any ’89 shipmates.

Cheers, Bill Parkhurst, M: (804) 938-6476

Thank you! - Karin (Klose) Kulinski”

Karin (Klose) Kulinski was also at Yvette’s CoC and reports in- “Six of us were thrilled to watch Yvette’s Superintendent CoC from the nearby Fleugel Alumni Center in Annapolis. Here’s a picture of the loudest cheering section at the watch party: Druso Daubon, Doug Brandeen, me, Joe Fagan, Britt McNeill, and Harry Pelto

’89: ’89:

Thanks everyone who sent in updates and congratulations to Yvette and Doug and all of our other classmates who continue to serve their country.

’90

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 13.67%

Pres: Frank Bendik

e: fbendik90@yahoo.com

Vice Pres: Joe Gugluizza

e: joe@academyglobalinvestments.com

Treas: Lawrence “Kai” Yeh

e: kyeh@mpsgc.com

Sec’y: Trey Alexander

e: shipmate1990@gmail.com

Website: www.usna90.com

Facebook: USNA Class of 1990

This month, let’s start off by showcasing some of the current crop of midshipmen, courtesy of

their parents/our classmates. We have eight members of the Class of 90+37 who completed Plebe Summer last year. They include (left-to-right): Peter Davids - 8th Company (Scott Davids), Michael Beauchamp -18th (Rob Beauchamp), Rachel Miller - 30th (Cindy Shultz-Miller), Mia Young -18th (Donna Pensabene Young & Tom Young), Hannah Bidus - 8th (Mike Bidus), Lucia Arny - 24th (Skip Arny), and Brady Bendik (Frank Bendik). Missing (evidently already on a recon mission): Matt Liszewski - 10th (Steve Liszewski).

Speaking of the next generation, my two-year-old leaves little time for finessing these columns, so here are some quick hits before I miss the extended deadline for submission: Mary Kay Wegner shared this classy pic with the Supe from a holiday party at Farragut House. At Army-Navy, Bill White got to hang out with the Supe on the sidelines. Kai Yeh shared several pictures from the game as well, including this one with several of our classmates. Meanwhile, in Reno, Jonathan Salkoff had the pleasure of re-connecting with Doug McGoff and Jon Aytes to watch the game. At the Military Bowl, Duane Cordrey caught up with the Supe before the parade. Also, as a welcome tribute to one of our finest, ’90 (Dave Kayea, Art Gibb, Scott, Pete Clarke, and John Byington) gathered over the holidays to help send off Fred to lead the 7th Fleet. In January after the official change of command, several classmates – including our honorary classmate Kim Hill – gathered for a several photos. Notice in both of these, the photo of “our other” Supe, VADM Virgil Hill, in Kim’s hands. “I was going to get him there, one way or another!” she said. Thanks again, Fred Kacher, for your steadying leadership during the transition period, and best wishes as you and Pam take on your new roles.

’90: Plebe daughters and sons of 1990

’90: Gathered in Dalhgren Marshall Stukes and Mike Tisdale met up in Arizona after Christmas and they encourage anyone else in the Phoenix/Tucson (or broader area) to check in if you’re in the area.

Our buddy Jeff Jockel has a new book out, call EFISH. It’s available from all of the usual sources for books and e-books. Jeff shared, “EFISH is important to me, as writing it was the sole positive outlet in my life during a very dark time in my life (2010-2015) when I was badly injured in London while serving overseas.” Crafting this book was a key component of his recovery, along with support from classmates, friends, and family, and Jeff is grateful to the VA for their assistance. “EFISH is a comic/ satire fiction book about a junior officer’s first duty station on a navy salvage ship. Readers who have never served in the surface ship navy may not believe that much of EFISH’s tale could ever really happen, while those who did serve out there will not only believe, but they will also relate to Ensign Carney’s journey and have a few laughs along the way.” Details at Jeffjockel90.wixsite.com/my-site-1.

Finally, another promotion to share and celebrate: a few days after the Supe change of command, ’90 gathered again in Memorial Hall to witness John Byington receiving his first star. Congrats, RADM!

Jeff Jockel’s book

’90: After the Change of Command

’90: RADM Byington ceremony

Once again, a reminder to “save the date” for our 35th reunion, just a year and a half away: October 2-5, 2025, as we watch Navy Football roast the chickens from Air Force! We will be posting and emailing registration information in the coming months, so pay attention to your inbox, the Facebook page, and this column. Note that our tailgater will take place INSIDE the stadium, so football tickets will be required for all attendees - no exceptions. We are looking forward to seeing everyone again, so make your plans now! And don’t forget to send your personal updates, memories, and photos to SHIPMATE1990@gmail.com for future editions of this column!

’91

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 12.95%

Pres: Gibson Armstrong p: 717-371-0124; e: gib@USNA91.info

Exec Vice Pres: Mike Rapp p: 757-620-0070; e: miker@USNA91.info

Admin Vice Pres: Ana Kreiensieck p: 703-298-9099; e: ana@1991.usna.com

Treas: Jen Coleman p: 989-600-9671; e: jen@USNA91.info

Sec’y: Juan Orozco p: 571-529-4447; e: juanorozco91@gmail.com

At Large: Ian Hadden p: 501-313-9597; e: ian@USNA91.info

At Large: Craig Benson p: 612-203-4280; e: craig@USNA91.info

Website: www.usna91.info

As the dark ages come to an end and we welcome the warmer months, we reflect on the Army/Navy game, the start of 2024 and the loss of a classmate.

Army-Navy Football game:

From Dave Olson:

M I met with some classmates and their families for dinner at Ristorante Euno, the self-described “most romantic restaurant” in Boston. The owner surprised us with an opera singer who performs with Andrea Bocelli and serenaded us with 3 songs! It was amazing!

We all joined in on the last song – “That’s Amore”! We took a class photo, and a whole group photo with families and the restaurant owner, which now hangs on the wall. If you’re ever there, look for it.

It had been a few years since I attended the Army/Navy game, but it was like we didn’t skip a beat reconnecting with old classmates, teammates, and shipmates. We have a bond that will never be broken! Looking forward to hopefully seeing more of you at next year’s game in Washington D.C.!

Dave and Jennifer Olson on the field before the game.

We also got updates from different classmates, who watched the game from Gillette Stadium to Coronado.

Class Calls

During the December class call, we had the pleasure of hosting LtCol Joe Thomas, USMC (Ret.). Dr. Thomas is the Director of the Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership and spoke to the class of the work being done towards leadership at USNA and how their work supports the entire Navy and our warfighters. If you get a chance to visit the yard – stop by the Stockdale Center and ask for Dr. Thomas!

Class calls are always the third Tuesday of the month at 9 pm ET. www.gotomeet.me /usna91. Code: 463-522-789#. Phone only: (571) 317-3122

Class Email:

Most of us get Gib’s monthly email to the class. If you don’t, we may have the wrong email address for you, or none at all. To be added, text your email address to Gib at (717) 371-0124.

The Leadership Conference in Annapolis, sponsored by the Naval Academy Minority Association, Thurs-Sat, 18-20 APR: Come out hear Michiko Martin, Art delaCruz and Tim Yoo on a panel discussing “Advancing leadership through collaboration, creativity, and innovation.” Stay for the gala dinner. $10,000 to the class with the most attendees. Let’s make that us!

Rest in Peace, Rear Admiral Brian Davies: It is with great sadness that I report Rear Admiral Brian Davies passed away in December 2023, after a long battle with cancer. Despite the treatments, Brian not only maintained a great attitude and fighting spirit, but remained on active duty, refusing to stop doing his job in service to our country. During his illustrious career, Brian commanded USS JIMMY CARTER (SSN-23), Submarine Squadron ELEVEN, and Submarine Group TWO. Due to his exceptional service in command of JIMMY

Class of 91 at Gillette Stadium

Coronado Watch Party

’91: Group photo with restaurant owner (pink sweater). Rex Kiteley, Dave Berghult, Scott Carson, Matt Reardon, Dominic Flis, Paul Bowen, Tom Teuschl, Chip Kelsey, & Dave Olson,

RDML Brian Davies

CARTER, he earned the Distinguished Service Medal, the same award typically given to our 4-star fleet commanders at the end of their tours. Brian was an incredible classmate, shipmate and friend to many of us.

Brian’s memorial service was held on Jan 18, a snowy day at the Naval Academy. SECNAV, CNO, VCNO, Supe, and most flag officers from the National Capital Region and many from submarine community were

there—not to mention a tremendous Class of 91 turnout. It was an appropriate and sad farewell to a classmate who stood the watch since our I-Day, and who was taken from our ranks far too soon.

I also ask that we remember Brian’s wife, Kacey, and their daughter, who endured with courage the many hardships of his time with the Navy. Rest in peace Brian. We miss you!

’92

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 18.61%

Pres: Donnie Kennedy

Vice Pres: Glenn Viado

Treasurer: Joe Zurzolo

Corr Sec’ys: David Ornstein and Jerry Deren

e: USNA1992ClassUpdate@gmail.com

Website: www.usna92.com

’92,

While this is being written in the depths of an Arctic freeze, it should be coming to you in the early days of spring, as ’92 again beats the Dark Ages!

Sadly, we must begin by passing word of another classmate who has left us.

Our shipmate Don Lane ended a four-year battle with cancer on 23 December 2023. Don’s Company-mates in 18 remember him as a great classmate and good friend who was always in a happy mood. He was noted for “smiling in every pic.” Don was such a strong student that he selected for the Medical Corps and went on to a successful career as an Air Force Pediatrician.

Don is missed by all of us who had the privilege to know him and to connect with his spirit over the years. We want his family to know that his memory will live on with all of us in the USNA Class of 1992 who were blessed to share “four years together by the Bay” with him. Rest easy classmate—we have the watch.

Please see Don’s full obituary elsewhere in this or future Shipmate and please keep the Lane family in your hearts.

Dennis Dias and Don Lane. Parents’ Weekend, August 1988

’91: From L to R: Andy McMarlin, Eric Austin, Kevin O’Connor, AJ Monaco, Brian Davies, James Baca, Randy Wright, Mike Kuypers, Gib Armstrong, Sean McKee and Dan O’Shea.

’91: Classmates gather at McGarvey’s after the service.

’91: USNA 91 Navy Crew in the House: Bill Devries, Andy McMarlin, James Baca, Kasey Davies (Brian’s wife), Stu Lockhart, Alden Mills, Kevin O’Connor, AJ Monaco, Todd Wobig and Shawn McKee

In better business, as we reached our deadline for this Shipmate we noted with delight (but not surprise) that four of our Marines have been nominated to the rank of Major General. BZ and Ooh-rah to: Generals Jason Morris, George Rowell, Jim Wellons, and Robert Fulford!

Time, tide, and Shipmate deadlines wait for no man! Get your updates in to usna1992classupdate@gmail.com !

Go get ‘em, ’92!

’93

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 17.81%

Pres: Bob Kuberski e: bob@usna93.com

Vice Pres: CAPT Colleen C. Salonga, SC, USN (Ret.)

Corr Sec’y: Maj Shogo Cottrell, USMCR 30765 W. 127th St, Olathe, KS 66061 e: shogo@usna93.com; p: 913-220-1193

Treas: Tanya (Wallace) Presser e: tanya@usna93.com

Shipmate Correspondence: Maj Shogo Cottrell, USMCR 30765 W. 127th St., Olathe, KS 66061 p: 913-220-1193; e: shogo@usna93.com

Website: http://www.usna93.com

As we move out of the dark ages, hopefully the updates will see an uptick as well. But, we at least have a submission for this issue and so we welcome this first-time update from John Miles:

M I live in the Tampa Bay area and am on the board of the Tampa Bay Chapter of the Alumni Association. I regularly see classmates Joe Wiendel and Bryan Buljat at meetings. I have my first book launching on February 6th. I dedicated it to my two kids because it contains the 12 life principles I wish I had learned when I was in my early 20s. It is called Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life. It features a chapter on Chris Cassidy on becoming a Perspective Harnesser and also Wendy Lawerence on the importance of being an Action Creator.

You can choose to include or omit my photo, but I don’t want to use this in any self-promotional way—more general awareness. The Next Big Idea Club picked it as a must-read for 2024. It comes out on February 6th, 2024. Thanks for your first submission and congrats on the new book! I have a new years’ resolution to do more reading, so I’ll add it to my reading list. Until next month, Semper Fi and Carpe Diem! — Shogo

’94

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 13.02%

Pres: Jim Keck

c: 904-477-2133; e: JKeck@usna94.com

Vice Pres: Julie Spencer

e: jspencer@1994.usna.com

Treas: Brian Bruggeman

e: btbruggeman@hotmail.com

Sec’y: Maria J. Pallotta

p: 410-440-7552; e: mariapallotta@yahoo.com

Corr Sec’y: Margaret (Dotolo) Aden e: margaret.aden@gmail.com

Greetings Classmates! The clock is now ticking on our 30th Reunion 17-20 October, 2024. While all the Committees are hard at work planning the best schedule and events, we wanted to let you know about our Class Hotel Block Information!

Couple of things to keep in mind. All hotels are expensive in Annapolis during reunion weekends. The Boat Show is also the same weekend as our reunion in 2024. As a committee, we decided to focus our efforts on downtown hotels that are walkable to events. Who wants to drive in Annapolis anyway?? Now onto the details…

First, we have The Graduate, Annapolis (formerly the Loews). Rates are $399 per night (plus taxes) single or double occupancy. Expect a slight increase for triple or quad occupancy. 2-night minimum stay. Reservations made here: https://graduatehotels.com/ annapolis/ Online group code is 3350724 or by calling 410-263-7777. Booking block is the “USNA Class of 1994 30th Reunion.” This should be easy enough even for our Marine Corps Brothers and Sisters. (Joking! Joking! Please no hate mail.)

Next, we have the Hilton Garden Inn Annapolis Downtown (this used to be an Irish Hotel I think?). Rates are $359 per night (plus tax) based upon single or double occupancy. Again, an increase for triple or quad occupancy. For the Hilton Garden Inn, reservations made by calling 410-990-1100, the Booking block is the “Class of 1994 30th Reunion Group.” There are links for booking too. You can check out FB group for details if you don’t want to pick up the phone.

We want you to get your rooms booked ASAP. We can flex the blocks up based on how bookings are going so more reservations more sooner are more better. If you feel overwhelmed with how to make the reservations, please get in touch with our travel genie, Dan Mario. He’s a ’94-3 guy, but he’s not so bad. His phone number:  540-479-8317  and the webpage he’s so graciously put together for us: https://www.GoNavyTravel.com/group/US NA1994

We have a bit of MERCH NEWS to share!! Brian over at Forever Firstie is our provider of choice (not a ’94 guy, but really great

Meeting the Upper Class – North Carolina’s own Don Lane and Don Cunningham 1988

Don Lane Hitting the Books Plebe Year

2 for 7! Andy Lomax, Kevin Hinkamper, Dennis Dias, and Don Lane

John Miles in what appear to be warmer climes along with his new book

94/95 CLASS

anyway!). These are the items he has teed up for us: https://foreverfirstie.com/collections /1994-reunion. There’s even a couple of Women’s options! Dreams do come true.

We have exciting things planned for the 30th and we hope you are all dialed in. We are adding a Golf Event on Thursday and Class Brunch on Sunday (to current data). Of course, McGarvey’s will be ground zero for all of our Shenanigans! Class registration goes live in April or May and we want you to register even if you won’t be coming. That way Harry and Jackie won’t be disappointed in person this coming October.

In order to ensure you are receiving Class Emails- you MUST have your details on the Alumni site up to date. Unfortunately, I cannot fix your emails and details, but you can do it online (https://www.usna.com/profile) or by calling the Alumni Association directly. Barring that, check Shipmate and our class FB page.

Please email me at margaret.aden@ gmail.com with any questions.

BEAT ARMY!

Peggy (Dotolo) Aden

’95

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 21.05%

Pres: CDR Andre Coleman, CEC, USN (Ret.) p: 571-344-0336; e: andre_coleman@hotmail.com

Vice Pres: Robert “Butch” Klemeyer p: 941-266-3557; e: bklemeyer@gmail.com

Tres: James “Jimmy” Loreto p: 240-505-6466; e: Jloretojr@gmail.com

Comms Dir: LCDR Heidi (Huerter) Lenzini, USN (Ret.) p: 619-347-0716; e: Heidi.lenzini@gmail.com

Sec’y: CDR Brian Schultz, SC, USN (Ret.) c: 904-219-7523; e: brian.schultz@msimga.com

Several classmates had USNA graduates in 2023 – sorry for the delay! Here’s what several of them had to say about it:

John Hopper: Seeing my son, Selik Hopper, graduate was the culmination of an amazing four years back at the Academy. It was so much fun to be able to watch his journey, knowing more or less what he was experiencing, from the outside! Our commissioning week 28 years ago was such a blur and so busy I realized I don’t remember half of everything that happened. It was great to experience it as a parent and be able to slow down enough to take it ALL in! Selik commissioned in the USMC, got married in June (he is also a proud member of the 2% club, marrying Ms. Kyra Verostek, his high school sweetheart), and was TAD back at USNA, then off to Quantico. He hopes to continue on as an Infantry Officer. As for me, following graduation, I went through the nuclear submarine training pipeline and out to Hawaii and the USS BREMERTON (SSN 698). I finished my time on active duty as an instructor at Navy OCS in Pensacola before transitioning to a civilian career. That led me to

the equipment industry which eventually brought us to South Carolina and owning/ running Bobcat equipment dealerships. I married Suzanne in 1998 and together we are raising four young men. She continually amazes, not only keeping us men in line and our home in order, but she still has found the time to have fostered 24 infants in our home over the years, volunteers with SWITCH (a nonprofit focused on restoring victims of sex trafficking) and returning to college herself. We will cherish the last four years of getting to spend time back at USNA and look forward to what comes next!

Frankie Delgado: It was an exciting Commissioning Week. It has been surreal seeing USNA through my son’s eyes for the last four years, so seeing him as a 2ndLt was truly emotional. Travis selected Marine Pilot and was TAD at USNA before heading to TBS. My son marks the third generation of my side of the family to serve since immigrating from Cuba in 1961. My uncle, CDR (Ret.) Jose Jimenez, was the first serving as a Navy NFO at the end of Vietnam. My father-in-law, Willis Dykes, was enlisted in the Army at the end of WWII and was slated to be part of Operation Olympic. It is a proud moment for all of us and a chance for Travis to continue to pay it forward for the entire family. We continue to live in my hometown of Wylie, Texas. Travis is the first of his high school, Wylie East to graduate from USNA and I was the first from Wylie High to graduate, which is a neat aspect of living in a small town. My oldest daughter will be a sophomore at Univ of Arkansas majoring in

Education/Psychology and I’ve got boy/girl twins starting their freshman year of high school. My wife, the “House Gunny”, keeps us all on track while juggling a real estate gig. I continue in the Marine Corps Reserves and am at new billet in the G35 at MARFOREUR/AF. I will truly miss my regular trips to The Yard to see my son!

Delgado family graduation

Greetings from Lamar and Kristina Douberly Super-stoked to watch our son Josh graduate with the Class of ’23. He will attend Navy Post Graduate School for the next year before heading to Pensacola for NFO Training. Josh was an Operations Research major and an undergraduate coach for the Men’s Swim/Dive team. He enjoyed the curriculum’s defense and corporate industrial applicability and somehow managed to correct the family culture when he avoided disciplinary action the entire four years. Josh will be followed by his younger brother Jake ‘25 in the Math Department. Kristina and I currently live in Port St Lucie, FL. We retired 10 years ago after a career flying helicopters and staff desks. Our shared work is with a Christian film studio dedicated to content regarding healing from marital/ individual brokenness. Please find us in the alumni directory if you are hurting and want to talk! We once needed help. somebody gave us help, and now....here to help.

Douberly family at graduation

Next from Ed Kinsella: It was a proud moment to see my son, Paul ’23 (13th Company) walk across the stage and be commissioned a Navy Ensign. We’ve enjoyed 4 years of being around the Yard again, watching Paul compete on the Men’s Swim Team, and seeing him get ready for the fleet. Paul will head to Pensacola in the

Hopper family at graduation

Hopper family wedding

fall to begin pilot training. We celebrated afterwards with family and friends, including my sister Kelly (Kinsella) Boring ’93 and my brother Joe Kinsella ’01. Megan and I will begin another 4 years by the bay in June, as our son, Christopher, was inducted with the class of 2027.

After 11 years in Coronado flying S-3’s and C-2’s, we moved home to Arlington, VA. I drilled with VR-48 and VR-53 until 2015. I’ve been flying for Southwest since 2011 and recently upgraded to Captain. Our older kids are in Charlottesville, Bethesda (Ensign Clare Kinsella - USUHS ’25), soon Pensacola and Annapolis, leaving just 3 kids at home to keep us young.

We have season football tickets above the grassy hill where we can watch the game and the antics of the Brigade. I’ll be wearing my ’95 gear, so come by and say hi. I look forward to catching up with classmates!

If you have a firstie graduating in May, let me know! In upcoming columns, we will catch up with all the plebers, several more admirals, a new SES, and don’t forget to participate in the company Spotlight on our Facebook page. We are featuring plebe companies and started Jan. 1. If you missed your company, check the events section or just search by name. It’s your pix and memories that make it a great way to recognize our classmates. Non Sibi.

’96

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 17.01%

Pres: Bill Pennington

Vice Pres: Ghislaine (Williams) Stonaker

Sec’y: Cara Albright e: caramalbright@1996.usna.com

Treas: Nikki Battaglia

’97

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 11.01%

Pres: Tom Wagner e: twagner1@san.rr.com

Send news to: LtCol Aaron Shelley, USMCR (Ret.) 1148 Via Jose, San Jose, CA 95120 c: 619-980-8297; e: apshelley@hotmail.com

Let’s begin with some outstanding news and huge congratulations to the Class of 1997’s newest flag officers.

Captain Melvin Smith Jr, USN, has been selected for appointment to the grade of Rear Admiral (Lower Half). He is currently serving as executive assistant to the commander, US Indo-Pacific Command, Camp H.M. Smith, HI.

Captain Timothy A. Brown, USN has been selected for appointment to the grade of Rear Admiral (Lower Half). He is currently serving as Assistant Chief of Staff for Force Logistics, Naval Air Forces/Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, San Diego, CA.

These are remarkable accomplishments. Bravo Zulu!

Thomas Strenge and Irvin Gray met up in their current hometown of Kansas City at the beginning of the year while dealing with sub-zero temperatures. Here’s a quick summary they provided.

M Here in Kansas City, we recommend Grunauer, an Austrian restaurant in the Crossroads part of town. Irvin is crushing it as a government contracts attorney for Honeywell and starting to send his kids to college. Maddie (17) is graduating this year and choosing a college, and Nigel (15) is wrestling for his high school and does Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Thomas has been focused on raising his two boys Wilhelm (4) and August (2) as a stay-at-home Dad, while his wife Karen is practicing not-for-profit law and 1st Amendment litigation. Irvin gave some great career advice and pointed out that Honeywell is hiring! We would love to see more grads here in the center of America. Thanks for sharing, fellas. We’re glad to know you both are doing well.

Jeff Walker who is living in beautiful Mount Pleasant, and he reluctantly allowed us to join him for a round of golf at his country club. It took a lot of convincing, but I finally wore him down. In all seriousness, we had a great day on the links, and I continued my streak of seeing an alligator on every course I have played in South Carolina. Thanks for hosting, Jeff, and showing us such a good time that day. Here’s a photo of us on the 18th hole.

Jeff Walker (L) and Aaron Shelley

Finally, in late January, Paul Sameit and his wife Nicole traveled down from their home in Venice, FL, to visit Key West. While there, they were able to meet up with Paul Felini and his wife Heidi who have been calling Key West home for many years. It was a good time to reminisce about the spring break trips there with USNA SCUBA Club.

Sameits and Felinis in Key West

USNA CANDIDATES

Start the youngster you know on the road to USNA.

To request info or apply online, visit usna.edu/Admissions

Irv and Thomas at Grunauer Restaurant

Next, I wanted to share a long overdue photo from the Shelley family’s visit to Charleston, SC, last year. I was able to link up with

That covers it for this issue. Here’s another call to action: Please reach out to me when you get a few minutes and let us know what you are up to these days. Your classmates will enjoy seeing your news and photos.

Beat Army! —Aaron ’98

Life Membership: 100%

Donor Participation: 9.48%

Pres: David Forman

c: 904-321-6459; e: DSForman@aol.com

Corr Sec’y: Mark Symmes

529 W. 29th St., Baltimore, MD 21211

e: shipmate98@yahoo.com

Temp Corr Sec’y: Alex Savage e: asavage98@gmail.com

Kinsella family at graduation – with inbound plebe

’99

Life Membership: 93%

Donor Participation: 11.19%

Pres: CAPT Jason Birch e: jb1999@me.com

Vice Pres: Dr. Joy Zelinski-Marquez e: drjoymarquez@gmail.com

Sec’y and Shipmate Contact: Darlene Delk e: darlene.delk@yahoo.com

Treas: Stacie M. Gibson e: staciegibson22@gmail.com

Communications Director: CDR Jose Pehovaz-Diez, USN (Ret.) e: jose.pehovazdiez@gmail.com

Website: www.usna99.com

’00

Life Membership: 97%

Donor Participation: 7.96%

Pres: J.V. “Murph” McCarthy

Vice Pres: Devin Smiley

Treas: Joy Marie Watkins

Sec’y: Douglas Bollock e: Shipmate00@yahoo.com

Faustena “Penny” (Fradd) Vahsen, lovingly known as “Mrs. V”, passed away January 10. She was an Honorary Graduate of the Class of 2000, as well as the official sponsor mom to our classmates Jason Kast, Jon Fay, Al Murray and Mike Harmon—but dozens of our classmates were welcomed in her home and treated as family.

Mrs. V lived a big life. She loved her family and the Navy. Her father, John Fradd, was Class of 1926. She was a proud Navy spouse to Captain George M. Vahsen (’52) until his death in 1980. Vahsen Hall, the Damage Control Building at the Naval Submarine Base in Groton, Connecticut was dedicated in his honor in 1988. The varsity locker room in Fitzgerald Clubhouse on the Yard is also named after him. Anyone who serves knows the important role a military spouse contributes to such a legacy.

They had five children, David, Cathleen, Sharon, Steven (’85) and James. Two of her numerous grandchildren are USNA grads. Over the course of 40 years, she sponsored more than 160 mids from the class of 1980 through 2019.

In 1953, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Hood College. She also completed a master’s degree in education from Loyola

College. She taught 7th grade science at Magothy River Middle School in Arnold. She was a cook. She was a writer. She was a contestant on the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? gameshow. She was an amazing woman who left an indelible mark on countless people in her community.

Fair winds and following seas to our Honorary 2000 Classmate, Mrs. V. Mrs. V gave her Firsties cooking lessons for the entire senior year. The “graduating” event was a very nice dinner at Northwoods Restaurant in Annapolis. During the meal, she enjoyed teaching her boys about etiquette and eating at a fine dining establishment.

’01

Life Membership: 96%

Donor Participation: 14.51%

Pres: Jen (Bohr) Tyll p: 302-528-9306; e: jenbohrtyll@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Amy (Baxter) Laczek p: 240-393-9120; e: laczekaxter@gmail.com

Treas: Adam Borcz e: adamhenryborcz@gmail.com

Sec’y: Jen McCullough e: jennifer.mccollough@gmail.com

So here I am again. I owe Jen another favor which I hope to pay off with this article and a boat ride this summer in Maine. Jen and I continue to run a program for USNA 2001 folks who wish to spend time in Maine so feel free to call. I updated my cell in that new “verification request” from USNA alumni (I can’t believe they made me call in). They let me update Jen’s info too so we are both current. For those of you who have run into Jen Tyll, you have been captured on camera and will now be part of the Shipmate update depending on how many photos they limit me to. First up is a great shot from Army Navy at Foxboro (sorry, can’t call it Gillette Stadium as that is not how I grew up). Nick Stewart, Jen Tyll, Daryl Hill, and Josh Jabin were all at the TMF tailgate. I was there somewhere, but I was chasing my 5 year old and was unable to stand still. They look like they had adult time which is awesome. I did see Pete Firenze ’01 and Paula Firenze ’98 as well.

CELEBRATING OUR 30TH YEAR!

Join us at the Chicago SACC as we celebrate the tradition of assisting alumni to network, make career transitions and hire fellow alumni. Chicago, IL 9-10 May 2024

www.sacc-jobfair.com

Mrs. V and her “V Boys” at graduation in May 2000.

’00: Pictured from L to R: Mike Harmon, Jon Fay, Jason Kast and Alex Murray.

Next up is Seth Stegmaier, Jen, and Sterling Jordan at McGarvey’s which is currently the midshipmen Thursday night hang out. Try the top deck of Harry Brownes for Thursdays if you are in town.

Third is Donnie Horner ’08, Murph McCarthy ’00 (also the varsity rugby coach), Jen, Shannon Webb ’04, and Tom Kulisz ’05 at the Fluegel Alumni Center.

Until next time. Enjoy two Shipmate updates in a row! Anyone want to write one?

Cess

’02

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 8.28%

Pres: Kate (Kranz) Jordan e: katherine.kranz@2002.usna.com

Vice Pres: Elizabeth (Kreft) Brienza

Treas: Danielle Thomasson

Sec’y: Mike Johnson e: johnson.michael.a@gmail.com

At-Large Directors: Rob Ballard, Lauren Coia Friedman and David Gravseth

Send Submissions to: johnson.michael.a@gmail.com

Website: www.usna2002.org

LinkedIn: USNA Class of 2002

LinkedIn Class Website: https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/3900492

Facebook: To join the USNA ’02 group, please reach out to Mike or Kate.

myUSNA: Visit “myUSNA” in the Apple App Store (also accessible at myusna.com). To access the ’02 Group, go to Groups and then Class of 2022.

Greetings, ’02.

I am so grateful that General Allen shared the following reflection for our class.

Reflections on the Class of 2002

By General John R. Allen, USMC (Ret.) 79th Commandant of Midshipmen

I’d just been Deputy Dant at USNA for a few short months when a meeting I was attending at NAAA was interrupted abruptly by someone saying an aircraft had just crashed

into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. While we were immediately moved at the enormity of this tragedy, we continued our meeting. Twenty minutes later, the same person opened door to say that a second aircraft had crashed into the South Tower. I knew immediately we were under attack, and this could be the opening move in a war on the US.

The Class of 2002 will remember the gates at Naval Academy were sandbagged and armed patrol boats roamed the Chesapeake Bay and Severn River. Out in the Bay, we could see the silhouette of the USS NORMANDY, a guided missile cruiser, that had taken station to extend its protective missile envelope over the nation’s capital. “My God,” I thought, “so it’s come to this.” With America under attack, and now at war, I also knew your Superintendent, Vice Admiral John Ryan, and I would be relying on the Class of 2002 to lead the Brigade of Midshipmen forward during this period of uncertainty and stress.

And you rose to the challenge, Class of 2002. Not only did you adapt immediately to the crisis of war, and a wartime footing, you set the example for the entire Brigade and led the Midshipmen from the front in all things. That day you graduated, that wonderful day in May, 2002, you set off to shoulder your share of the challenges our nation now faced. As I shook your hands on the stage in Navy and Marine Corps Stadium that day, I remember thinking how proud I was of each and every one of you, and I also remember thinking this class, the Class of 2002, is ready for whatever war may bring. But none of us could have imagined the wars against terror would last for 20 years and span two major theaters. Across that score of years, you’ve excelled in every one of your undertakings. Many of you remain on active duty and continue to serve our naval service at the very edge of American influence in this era fraught with danger and uncertainty. But many of you have moved off into the civilian life, upholding the finest traditions of the Academy in whatever profession you’ve pursued, and in so doing enhancing so many walks of American life with your personal and professional examples.

Let me close by honoring the members of the Class of 2002 whose names are forever enshrined in Memorial Hall. Your precious Classmates gave their last full measure of devotion to our country. I would be deeply involved in the funeral service for one of your Classmates, Matt Freeman, Captain, USMC, who was killed in action bravely leading his advisory team in Afghanistan. Matt was the son of my own Classmate Gary (Class of 1976) and his wife Lisa Freeman. When Matt died, he was wearing the same Naval Aviator wings worn by his father, Gary, and also worn by his grandfather. That day in the Naval Academy Chapel, the world heard from 2002 … heard of your grief, but also of your immense pride in the sacrifices of Matt and others of your Classmates who’d perished or had been

’01: USNA Class representatives at the Plankowner Wall in the Fluegel Alumni Center

Purple Heart Medal on Specialist Kit Lowe, the Army Soldier who’d been badly wounded trying to save Matt’s life. Even in those moments of sadness, the greatness and the strength of your Class shone forth. Less than two years later, I would take command of the war in Afghanistan where I would serve with many of you in combat, and I would think of Matt constantly, and your other Classmates from the roll of our honored dead: Nicholas Juron; Richard Andersen, Jr.; and John Houston.

The years have lengthened now, in my seventieth year, as I look back on my life and my career, my service as Commandant at USNA ranks at the top of my experiences, and of that time, serving with the Class of 2002, was the absolute highlight. So, well done to you all, the Class of 2002, good and faithful servants. Bravo Zulu.

Thank you for the gift of your thoughtful reflection, General Allen.

Thank you also to Vice Admiral Ryan, for the connection with General Allen; General Allen, Theresa Northern, and Lisa Freeman for the recommendation and assistance in contacting USNA to inquire about photos from Matthew’s funeral; Maria O’Shea of the USNA Alumni Association and Foundation, for her ongoing support in 2002’s Class Notes submissions; Stacy Godfrey of the USNA Public Affairs for the referral to the Nimitz Library Archives Department; and Jennifer A. Bryan, Ph.D., Head of Special Collections and Archives/Archivist, Nimitz Library, who searched the Public Affairs Office photo discs in the archives, found discs of Matthew’s funeral, and shared photos.

The following photos are from Matthew Freeman’s funeral on August 26, 2009, at the USNA Cemetery and Columbarium, as well as at the Chapel.

Specialist Kit Lowe, U.S. Army

Sincerely,

Mike Johnson

johnson.michael.a@gmail.com

’02 Detachment South Arlington, Virginia

www.usna.com/tribute-gifts

donorrelations@usna.com

wounded in the service of the United States. The Class will remember the moment in the

funeral when Theresa – who had just joined Matt in marriage weeks prior – pinned the

’02: From Matthew’s ceremony

’02: General Allen and Kit Lowe

’02: Theresa presenting Kit Lowe with his Purple Heart Medal citation

’03

Life Membership: 97%

Donor Participation: 6.22%

Pres: LtCol Lisa (Steinmetz) Cordonnier, USMC e: lisacords03@gmail.com

Vice Pres: CDR Fernando R. Reyes, USN e: delux1981@gmail.com

Treas: CDR Megan Barnett, USN e: mmbarnett03@msn.com

Sec'y: Heather M. (Garland) Selig e: heather.selig@2003.usna.com

Class Website: http://2003.usnaclasses.net/ Webmaster: CDR Kevin Hagan, USN e: kevin.r.hagan@gmail.com

Shipmate Submissions: Kenneth Michel e: kennethmichel03@gmail.com

’04

Life Membership: 95%

Donor Participation: 6.06%

Pres: Jeff McLean

e: jeffreyjmclean@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Shannon Webb

Treas: Jarrett Berke

Sec’y: Deni Baykan

Comms Officer: Leigh Ross

Philanthropic and Inclusion Officer: Kristen Murdock

Operations Officer: Alexa Hunter

Send Submissions to: classof2004usna@gmail.com

2004,

As you know, our classmate and friend CDR Doug Morea passed away earlier this year. Doug was not only a treasured classmate and friend; he represented our class proudly in the fleet. He was a legend in the strike fighter community, accumulating over 3,700 flight hours and 675 carrier landings, winning the “Michael Longardt Leadership Award” and “CVW-1 Department Head of the Year Award,” and earning positions as a TOPGUN instructor and CO of VFA-34. His academy roommate CDR Jake Ferrari shared the following remembrance:

M On January 2nd, 2024 we lost an amazing classmate and shipmate. Some of us lost an amazing company mate. And for Chris Carson, Chris Jamison, and I, we lost an amazing Naval Academy roommate. Doug Morea (“Dinghy,” “Bag Man,” “Midnight IMer,” were some of the many nick names he held— he rarely was referred to as Doug in the room) was a great son, brother, husband, and friend.

After graduation, our paths seldom crossed. I was a West Coast SWO, and he was an East Coast aviator. I’ve reflected on our time at the Academy, and the few times our paths crossed since 2004, and I would like to take a moment to share some of my reflections. Since day one of Plebe Summer, Doug always portrayed a sense of youthful exuberance, which included

his appearance. Doug has always appeared much younger than he was. Doug always felt more like a little brother to all of us more than anything. There were times during Plebe Summer where we might have felt that Doug was in for more than he bargained for. But that could not be further from the truth. Doug was all-in on the Academy and all-in on becoming a naval aviator, specifically a strike-fighter pilot. Let’s face it, Doug wanted to be Maverick from Top Gun

Greg Woelfel , Chris Carson, Jake

My youthful roommate would face several challenges at the Academy. I remember coming back from holiday break between first and second semester and learning that Doug’s mom had passed away during that time. Doug was hurt, as anyone would be losing a parent at such a young age and so unexpectedly. He

grieved, and he had a strong support system at school to see him through such a terrible event. Ultimately, Doug displayed an incredible amount of grace and kept slugging through the rigorous academic year.

At the end of Plebe Year, it was time to pick majors. Doug chose to be an Aerospace Engineer. A lot of us were surprised by that choice. We thought, “wow Doug, that sounds hard.” But he would not be deterred. Doug was going to push himself to be the best. He knew that major would help him select aviation, and in the end become an amazing pilot. And he did. Doug stuck with Aerospace. He spent a lot of time at Nimitz Library and in the academic buildings in his determination to be the best.

Doug would again have to overcome adversity when the original service selection assignments were released the start of second semester Firstie Year. Doug was originally chosen to become a Naval Flight Officer. NFO is a great selection, but that was not what Doug was meant to do— remember he was meant to be Maverick, not Goose. Those were some trying weeks for Doug until he eventually was informed a spot for Navy Air had openedup, and he of course accepted. Doug took that second opportunity to go Navy Air, ran with it, and never looked back. Additionally, that semester a new side of Doug started to emerge. Of course, we knew he wanted to be a Naval Aviator, but that semester he was a Platoon Leader for our company as well. Arguably, this was the first time Doug had been put into a leadership position while at the Academy. And this is where I started to see a new side to Doug. He was now responsible for other midshipmen, taking on more responsibility, and leading others, peers and juniors alike. It was at this time it became apparent that Doug was not only going to be an amazing pilot, but he was going to be an amazing officer as well!

Chris Jamison, Chris Carson, Jake Ferrari and Doug Morea

Ferrari and Doug Morea

’04: Doug’s F/A-18C from his first squadron, VFA-87 Golden Warriors

After graduation, the next time I remember catchingup with Doug was in San Diego. He was conducting work-ups in SOCAL, and I would learn what his eventual call sign would be, “Dorothy.” Although “Dorothy” may sound a little less than tough and rugged and it definitely is not as cool as “Maverick,” it was appropriate and symbolized the type of pilot he had become. He was up flying and experienced a casualty in his F/A-18. The air controller asked him if he still wanted to land his plane on the carrier or go back “home.” He made the responsible decision to go “home,” back to Naval Air

Station North Island (in this case Kansas). That showed an incredible amount of maturity as a very junior pilot, knowing that he might be opening himself up to some razzing from other members in the squadron. But it was the right call. Doug was prudent and safe, the mark of a truly professional pilot— really the mark of any professional!

In recent years, we both lamented to each other how poorly we had done to stay in touch. We did not see each other or talk as frequently as we should have. But the times when we would get together it was as if time had reversed itself. I was proud to look at my friend from afar and see his dreams becoming reality: F/A-18 pilot, Top Gun graduate and instructor, a tour at PERS, winning leadership awards as a department head, and commanding a squadron. I miss my friend. I would give anything for one more phone call, one more gathering, one more of “Dinghy” Doug’s world-famous laughs. The world lost an amazing individual on January 2nd.

-Jake Ferrari, ’04, 26th Co.

’05

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 5.37%

Pres: LtCol Thomas A. Kulisz, USMC hometown: Oceanside, CA e: kulisz@2005.usna.com

Vice Pres: CDR Matthew J. Bernhardt, USN hometown: Annapolis, MD p: 619-889-1968; e: mjbernhardt@gmail.com

Treas: Allen J. Murphy hometown: Severna Park, MD p: 410-212-1082; e: allen.murphy.2005@gmail.com

Sec’y: CDR Reed A. Kitchen, USN hometown: Arlington, VA p: 619-208-0770; e: reedkitchen@gmail.com

Website: 2005.usnaclasses.net

’06

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 8.01%

Pres: LCDR Adrienne A. Maeser, USN

Vice Pres: CDR Joshua M. Angichiodo, USN

Treas: CDR Joshua J. Larson, USNR

Sec’y: Ms. Ashley E. Pelzek e: usnaclassof2006@gmail.com

Hello Aught Six!

During my recent escape to San Diego, I had the pleasure of spending some time with this fantastic group of shipmates. Pictured from left to right are LAMPS legends Rob Chandler, Heather Thomas, Trevor Prophet, Gordon McDonald (yours truly), Erin Petkunas (Pursley), and Cole Roberts. Not pictured, Andrew Belding (Class of ‘06 minus one), also joined us for the fun. Erin and Cole may insist that they weren’t technically LAMPS pilots, because they never flew the mighty SH-60B, but OG’s know that LAMPS is alive and well in the HSM community. We spent a delightful afternoon catching up, sharing “tales of old,” and enjoying some pints.

The mini-reunion left me feeling nostalgic and looking forward to our 20-year reunion in 2026. It was a great opportunity to reconnect. I can’t wait to see even more familiar faces celebrating the two decades that have passed since the class that had the last real Plebe Summer graduated. Looking forward to creating more memories. Be there or Gunny is gonna fix you (more accurately, he will permit you to fix yourself). That’s not a threat, that’s a promise!

Cheers, Gordo

CLASS and CHAPTER OFFICERS

Please check your CLASS and CHAPTER headers. Send us your updates

CLASS officers, email to: classnews@usna.com

CHAPTER officers, email to: chapternews@usna.com

’07

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 6.93%

Pres: Brady Beauchamp

Vice Pres: LtCol Benjamin Tuck, USMC e: Benjamin.Tuck07@gmail.com

Treas: LCDR Patrick Sullivan, USN e: patrick.timothy.sullivan@gmail.com

Sec’y: CDR Dan Bellomo, USNR e: dbellomo@umich.edu

Send Articles to: classofficersUSNA2007@gmail.com

’08

Life Membership: 97%

Donor Participation: 27.80%

Pres: Donald H. Horner III

Vice Pres: LCDR Gerald Brooks, USN

Treas: LCDR Daniel E. Foose, USN

Sec’y: LCDR Dianna Dietrich Bunt, USN e: dianna.dietrich@gmail.com

Justin Bardin / Go Fund Me

Dear ’08 friends,

Several of you kindly reached out to say that you missed me at the reunion and I realized that I had not shared my story with as many of you as I thought.

Early last year, I was diagnosed with a deadly form of Stage 4 Brain Cancer (Glioblastoma). Since then, I’ve had two brain surgeries to remove two separate tumors and undergone two rounds of radiation and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, a third tumor was recently discovered and I am now enrolled in a clinical trial at UCLA.

A number of you have asked how you can help so I am starting a GoFundMe campaign. The purpose of these funds is to help with the costs of my clinical trial. More importantly, these funds will support my family now, and in the future, given the uncertainty of my prognosis.

I am grateful for any amount you can contribute and, even more so, grateful for the camaraderie and support of our Class. Feel free to share with whoever you’d like.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/justinsbrain-fund?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-

CDR Doug Morea, USNA 2004 / 26th Co.

I sincerely hope you all are well. I’ll keep fighting with the goal of making our 20-year reunion!

Most sincerely,

Justin Bardin ’08

Ben De Leonibus Go Fund Me

There is no ‘normal’ way to share the devastating news that the De Leonibus family has received and for most, like us, its unexpected and unfathomable. Steve, Marina, and the kids were relocated to Marine Corps Base Hawaii on the island of Oahu two months ago as part of his active duty with the United States Navy.

Shortly after the move is when Ben started to show signs of agitation and physical/mental development issues. The initial diagnosis last month after their hospital visit was severe reflux at which point Ben was put on an NG tube and discharged a week later. Over the last two weeks, Ben has significantly declined in other ways, showing signs of neurological impairment which worsen as new symptoms develop daily.

After being readmitted over Labor Day weekend, the medical teams conducted multiple tests, scans, and procedures. It’s with the most immense pain and heartbreak that we inform you of his diagnoses of leukodystrophy, a rare progressive, metabolic, genetic disease (most likely Krabbe) a terminal disease that affects the brain. Ben’s diagnosis is gut wrenching and every parent’s worst nightmare. It is the worst possible outcome imaginable. At this time, we ask that you please pray for our sweet, innocent baby boy, Ben and that God is going to grant him the ultimate peace, and his family is given the support, care, and love they need to heal during this unfair time.

Our main goal is to get the family back to Maryland by Mid-September to spend Ben’s remaining weeks or months of life under the love and care of both Steve and Marina’s families. Being in Maryland will not only give them the support they need during this time, but also allow access to the best Pediatric Neurological programs in the country that can keep Ben comfortable. We are grateful for those who have been able to provide the guidance and connections to help facilitate the things needed that are helpful to navigate Ben and the family forward.

The money generated here will go towards many expenses including specialized flights and coordination back to Maryland, housing, medical, and other unexpected costs they will likely face during this time.

Please pray for Ben, Marina, Steve, Grace, Mia and the rest of the De Leonibus/Rubbo family as they begin to navigate their way through this. It will not be easy but there is reassurance in knowing the army standing behind him. We have already seen what that is, and we know it will only continue, to which we are all grateful.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/ be-there-for-ben?viewupdates=1&rcid=r01169955550231-393a6e4c7f3011ee&utm_ medium=email&utm_source=customer&utm_ campaign=p_email%2B1137-updatesupporters-v5b

And lastly, Darryl Abriam sent a great photo of 23rd Company Hellfish reuniting at our 15th! It was great to see everyone!

23rd Company Hellfish reunite

’09

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 28.33%

Pres: LCDR Andrew Poulin, USN e: andrew.poulin09@gmail.com

Vice Pres: LCDR Art Griffin, USN

Treas: LCDR Cody Forsythe, USN

Sec’y: Micky Matus, USN e: michaelmatus09@gmail.com

Shipmate Submissions: e: Shipmate09@gmail.com

’09,

Hope everyone is shaking off the last of the Dark Ages. Bringing us into spring is Brian O’Toole (15th Company) with a life update: M “Hello fellow, Aught-Niners! Since barely graduating back in 2009, I got my Wings of Gold and was fortunate enough to be able to fly some truly amazing aircraft and work with some phenomenal people. The Navy somehow let me fly both the F/A-18E and the F-35C and trained me up on how to be an LSO. The highlight of my career was my last tour as CVW-2 CAG Paddles.

Unfortunately during that tour, I was severely injured after taking some shrapnel to the head on the flight deck of the USS CARL VINSON in the South China Sea back in January 2022. The incredible work of the Carl Vinson crew, helicopter aircrew, medical professionals, and my fellow LSOs on the platform are the sole reason I am alive today. After a year and a

half of rehabilitation and healing, the Navy medically retired me out of NAS Lemoore on July 28, 2023.

A fellow ’09’er from 15th Company, Aaron Samuelson, and his family, were able to attend and hold a small Feisty Goat reunion in the hot Central Valley. Since then, I’ve moved down to San Diego, started school, and gotten a new job. I miss flying everyday but am lucky to not only be here, but to have more time to spend with my wife Tara and 3 kids Taylor, Nathan, and Charlotte.

Thank you to all those that reached out and continue to do so, and if you are ever in San Diego or Los Angeles, reach out and drinks are on me! bjotoole09@gmail.com”

Also, don’t forget our 15-year Reunion is getting even closer—October 17-19!! Please check out www.usna09.com for the latest and greatest reunion info to include registration and schedule of events. If you need to update your information, including your e-mail address, please do so at usna.com. If you have any issues, you can e-mail: membership @usna.com or call 410-295-4000.

Until next time, please keep the stories, life updates, and pictures coming our way via our “US Naval Academy Class of 2009” facebook page or our Class Slack channel: usna09.slack.com

GO NAVY!

—’09 Class Officers

’10

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 21.92%

Pres: LT Robert Battle, USN

e: rhbattle@2010.usna.com

Vice Pres: LT Garth Thomas, USN

Sec’y: LT Margaret Boyle, USN

e: mcboyle@2010.usna.com

Send Articles to: Shipmate2010@gmail.com

Ben De Leonibus

’11

Life Membership: 97%

Donor Participation: 1 3.63%

Pres: Michael E. Orzetti, CIV

Vice Pres: LT Ricky Dobbs, USN

Treas: LT Matthew Pierson, USN

Sec’y: LT Natalie Woodward, USN e: NNWoodward@2011.usna.com

’12

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 23.56%

Pres: Capt Ian Cameron, USMC

Vice Pres: LT Nicholas DeMasters, USN

Treas: LT Nicolas Woods, USN

Sec’y: LT Jane M. Baird, USN

Send Articles to: shipmate2012@gmail.com

’13

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 33.27%

Pres: LT John-Rex Spivey, USN e: johnrexspivey@gmail.com

Vice Pres: LT Daniel Murphy, USN

Treas: 1stLt Ted Baumgardner, USMC

Sec’y: LT Hannah Yun, USN

’14

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 33.37%

Pres: 1stLt William R. Roberts, USMC

Vice Pres: 1stLt Conor J. Kearney, USMC

Treas: LTJG Emily L. Kreyenhagen, USN

Sec’y: LTJG Elizabeth J. Powers, USN

Send Articles to: shipmate2014@gmail.com

’15

Life Membership: 97%

Donor Participation: 32.65%

Pres: Capt Ward “Bubba” Scott III, USMC p: 603-236-1011; e: wardscottiii@gmail.com

Vice Pres: LT Dylan Cawdery, USN p: 801-638-0724; e: dcawdery@gmail.com

Treas: LT Joshua David Elliott, USN p: 772-643-4468; e: joshuaelliott2015@gmail.com

Sec’y: Capt Madeline Zell, USMC p: 410-370-3068; e: mad.zell.15@gmail.com

LCDR Andrea Howard and Capt Katrina Herrera reunited for the first time since the great Class of 2015 commissioned 8.5 years ago. They participated in USNA’s third Diversity Conference, mentoring the next generation of Fleet leaders!

LCDR Andrea Howard and Capt Katrina Herrera reunited

’16

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 34.04%

Pres: Capt Eric B. Kellogg, USMC

Vice Pres: Capt Matthew L. Chavez, USMC

Treas: LT Renata M. Kolinko, USN

Sec’y: Capt Zachary L. Coffman, USMC

Send Articles to: Shipmate2016@gmail.com

’17

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 25.99%

Pres: Capt Chosnel Raymond, USMC e: chosnel.ra@gmail.com

Vice Pres: LT Robert Winning, USN e: robertwinning34@gmail.com

Treas: LT Theodore “Jelly Belly” Schopf, USN e: tedschopfii@gmail.com

Sec’y: LT Molly McGuckin, USN e: mollykmcguckin@gmail.com

’18

Life Membership: 100%

Donor Participation: 34.73%

Pres: LT Dan Stitt, USN

Vice Pres: LT Michael Pahissa, USN

Treas: ENS Cord-John H. Roehrbein, USN

Sec’y: Rachel LaBuda

Send Articles to: 2018usna@gmail.com

’19

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 5.20%

Pres: Mr. Isaac Phillips III

Vice Pres: ENS Tate Schumacher, USN

Treas: LTJG Leor Golan, USN

Sec’y: LTJG Gil Wright, USN

’20

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 4.26%

Pres: 2ndLt Mike Smith, USMC

Vice Pres: 2ndLt John Finnegan, USMC

Treas: ENS Grayson Gossett, USN

Sec’y: ENS Nolan A. Kreipe, USN

’21

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 2.86%

Pres: ENS Cameron R. Kinley, USN

Vice Pres: N/A

Treas: ENS Lakayla D. Deshields, USN

Sec’y: Ann M. Jackson

’22

Life Membership: 99%

Donor Participation: 9.23%

Pres: ENS Andre C. Rascoe, USN

Vice Pres: ENS Jonathan D. Miranda, USN

Treas: ENS Hampton B. Boyd, USN

Sec’y: ENS Rory S. Cox, USN

Shipmate received this news worthy photo and information just in time to be included for this March-April 2024 publication. Go Navy!

’23

Life Membership: 98%

Donor Participation: 29.98%

Pres: 2nd Lt Grant A. Booker, USMC

Vice Pres: ENS Julius W. Aebly III, USN

Treas: ENS Zion A. Armstrong, USN

Sec’y: 2nd Lt Jason Santiago, USMC

INDIAN OCEAN (July 18th, 2023) The Conning officer Ensign Skylar Lodice ’22 waves to INS Takash while she is alongside the Arliegh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) Indian Ocean, July 18. Stethem is assigned to Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 9. (U.S. Navy phot by Lieutenant Junior Grade Saavan Patel)

CHAPTER NEWS

Alabama

BGO Area Coordinator: Brian Campbell ’94, USNR p: 251-776-4000; e: Brian.Campbell@1994.usna.com

USNA Alabama Alumni Chapter

Pres: Greg Hess ’85 p: 205-307-9191; e: greghess8599@charter.net

Vice Pres, Central Alabama: Eric Riddle ’94 p: 469-363-4295; e: ericriddle94@gmail.com

Vice Pres, Northern Alabama: Michael McFarland ’04 p: 713-410-2155; e: mjmcfarland7@aol.com

Treas: Dennis Read ’59 p: 205-879-6617; e: dsread2010@gmail.com

Exec Assist: Carolyn Freeman, son, Reid ’24 e: usna.ala@gmail.com

South Alabama Chapter

Pres: CDR Brian Campbell ’94, USNR p: 251-776-4000; e: Brian.Campbell@1994.usna.com

Sec’y: Ruth Lichtenfeld p: 251-343-6264; e: ruth29@bellsouth.net

Arizona

BGO Area Coordinator: Susan Wester e: sjw456@icloud.com

Arizona Chapter

Pres: Capt David M. English ’86, USMCR e: David.English@1986.usna.com

Sec’y: Steven W. Ranes ’02 e: StevenWRanes@gmail.com

Website: http://arizona.usnachapters.com

Northern Arizona Chapter

Pres: Charlie Bomberger ’74 p: 928-4999-9605; e: cbomberger74@gmail.com

Sec’y: Juan Segovia ’88 p: 949-235-4083; e: the5Segovias@gmail.com

Southern Arizona Chapter

Pres: Thom Rossa ’63 e: TRossa@hayes-soloway.com

Sec’y: Jim Hillenmayer ’73 e: jhillenmayer73@msn.com

Website: http://southernarizona.usnachapters.com

Arkansas

BGO Area Coordinator: David Chucoski e: david.chucoski@gmail.com

Arkansas Chapter

Pres: Steve Colley ’08 e: stevecolley84@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Doug Waller ’02 e: waller_doug@yahoo.com

Sec'y Treas: Jason Coyle ’09 e: jason.coyle@gmail.com

Asia

BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Turbeville ’01 e: bgoarea501coordinator@gmail.com

Guam Chapter

Pres: CAPT Noel M. Enriquez ’84, USNR P.O. Box 26849, GMF, Barrigada, GU 96921-6849 h: 671-472-9629; f: 671-472-1966 c: 671-777-9629; e: NME@1984.usna.com

Philippines Chapter

Pres: COMMO Alberto B. Carlos ’89, AFP p: +63-2-525-1003; m: +63-917- 521-1637 e: carlosabet@yahoo.com

Sec’y: Capt Carl Roy Catalan ’08, PMC (PN) p: +63-917-706-8042; e: Roitime23@gmail.com

Website: www.groups.yahoo.com/communityusnaphil

Singapore Chapter

Pres: Say Yong Tan ’05 e: say@2005.usna.com

Vice Pres: Andy Harrell ’12 e: andyh125@gmail.com

Sec’y: LTJG Nicole Uchida ’12, USN e: Nicole.Uchida@fe.navy.mil

Chapter Email: USNASG@gmail.com

Republic of Korea Chapter

Pres: CDR Chong “John” M. Yi ’85, USN e: John.M.Yi@raytheon.com

Tokyo Bay Chapter

Pres: Daniel J Zoot ’91 1-15-19-301 Minami-Aoyama Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062 e: shishifunjin@gmail.com

California

Los Angeles Chapter

Pres: Adrian Montecinos ’14 p: 562-587-3690; e: admont19@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Paris Scott ’12 p: 949-756-4286; e: pscoot89@gmail.com

Treas: Michael Seaver ’83 e: michaelseaver@gmail.com

National Trustee: Brian DeJarnett e: Brian@dejarnett.net

BGO Area Coordinator (LA County/Orange County): CDR Steve Shatynski ’83, USN (Ret.) p: 714-255-6108

e: Stephan.shatynski@wellsfargoadvisors.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Riverside/San Bernardino):

CDR Bill Lauper, USN (Ret.) p: 619-840-2846; e: lauperwm@gmail.com

Monterey Bay Chapter

Pres: Maj. Rebecca "Becky Singh" ’03, USNR e: usnaalumnimontereybay@gmail.com

Corr Sec’y: Steve Tackett ’87 e: stackett99@yahoo.com

Website: http://montereybay.usnachapters.net

BGO Area Coordinator: Bob Garcia e: bob@coeususa.com

Army-Navy 2023

Despite the outcome, Monterey Chapter had a good time at The Trident Room watching Army v. Navy. It was again a packed house of grads spanning generations. Cheers to next year!Becky Singh ’03

Shannon Dillman ’19, Jacob Burns ’19 & family

Joseph Wiggins ’66 & son Brandon Wiggins

Kathleen & Matthew Schaidle ’14, Keon & Katelyn Briscoe ’15 (+ Class of 2045 X 2)

Rozel Hernandez ’17

2023 Vice Admiral Dick Miller Memorial USNA-USMA Golf Challenge

Amidst a November morning of thunder and downpour, the Monterey Bay Chapter hosted the 2023 Vice Admiral Dick Miller Memorial Golf Challenge at The Pines. Team Navy was represented by Rear Adm. Jerry Ellis ’64 (Ret.), John Alich ’64, Bob Whitlock ’66, Doug Hintze ’83, Dan Kuratko ’05 and Ben Lowe ’18 Unfortunately, Army won (this time). We all enjoyed a day of camaraderie, sea stories, and lots of trash talk from both sides.

Sacramento Chapter

Pres: Terri (Riggs) Maginnis ’82

p: 916-203-5115; e: tmaginnis@yahoo.com

Vice Pres: Brian Grubbs ’92

p: 916-712-1747; e: bgrubbs1992@gmail.com

Sec’y: Paul Deveaux ’96

e: paul@pauldeveaux.com

Treas: Alan Abbs ’91

e: alanabbs@gmail.com

Treas: Jack Everett ’64

e: jeverett@quicknet.com

Past Pres: Dennis P. Joyce ’61 p: 916-996-1333; e: djoyce1961@hotmail.com

San Diego Chapter

Pres: Keith Kitagawa ’92

e: president@usnaaasd.com

Vice Pres 1: Debbie Balsley ’93

Vice Pres 2: Michael Philbrook ’83

Treas: Juan Rose III ’04

e: treasurer@usnaaasd.com

Sec’y: Mark Powers ’06

e: secretary@usnaaasd.com

Corr Sec’y: Charlie Carey ’70 p: 619-589-0945; e: cdcarey@1970.USNA.com

Website: http://usnaaasd.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Mike Philbrook ’83 e: michael.philbrook@1983.usna.com

It has been a while since our last SHIPMATE submission and this edition takes us all the way back to the Army Navy game which was so close and yet so far. Just inches to at least tie and have a shot at a great win. Always next year. The San Diego Chapter sponsored many different venues for game watching and one of the main

ones was downtown. Our senior attendee was Dick Everet ’68 pictured below.

Dick Everet ’68 with junior attendee at downtown venue. Also in December we had a Happy Hour pop-up in Coronado with the soon to be Superintendent VADM Yvette Davids ’89 in attendance. Everyone had a relaxed, informally good time which is a standard for events in San Diego. Our guest with a few others pictured on the next page.

Bob Whitlock teaches our West Point counterparts the finer things of playing the green.

Rear Adm. Ellis demonstrates the art of the short game.

Doug Hintze ’83 preparing to win the highest score for the Navy side.

Classmates Jerry Ellis and John Alich ’64 share a golf cart after Chow Calls are complete

San Diego Chapter: Charlie Carey, Carl Weiscopf, Neil Finn, Will Hollowell, George Galdorisi, Russ Olso, Rob Meyer, Tom Flaherty and Denny McBain.

San Francisco Chapter: North Bay: Led by Cheriene Griffith ’02 at the Bird in Santa Rosa. List of attendees not available. See “Viewing Party” writeup on the next page.

We are holding our lunches on a quarterly basis now and kicked the new year off with George Galdorisi ’70 talking about how to be a writer. George has written many books alone (17) and also in collaboration with other authors in addition to holding down his other job as the Director of Strategic Assessments and Technical Futures for the Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific. George’s outline on writing was very methodical and interesting and he received many questions from the audience. George was well supported as many of his classmates from 1970 showed up to hear the presentation. A group picture is on the previous page.

San Francisco Bay Area Chapter

Prest: Mike Fazzio ‘85 e: mikefaz85@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Vacant

Secy.: Ray Fazzio ‘57 e: rayfaz57@pacbell.net

Treas.: Brian Frack ‘89 e: frackbrian@gmail.com

Website: http://sfbayarea.usnachapters.net

BGO Area Coordinator: LT Paul Kepner ‘04, USN (Ret) e: paulmkepner@gmail.com.

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ usnaaasfbayarea

Instagram: @usnaaa_sfbaychapter

BGO Area Coordinator: Bob Garcia e: bob@coeususa.com

The Chapter held a networking get together in downtown San Francisco on 30 Nov. Alumni met for social and business networking, swapping sea stories from USNA and the business world. Matt Sturges ’89, gave a quick talk on the Moffett Field Museum and the importance on business networking. A nice time was had by all.

ARMY NAVY VIEWING PARTIES

South Bay a Led by Spence Leslie ’74 at Fibbar Magee’s: In Sunnyvale, CA See one of the photos on the previous page and this page.

Santa Barbara Chapter

Pres: Stephen L.A. Callahan ’81

Treas: CAPT Stephen H. Huber ’80, USN (Ret.)

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Greg McGiffney

e: Greg.McGiffney@bgo.usna.com

Chapter email: usnaaasantabarbarachapter@gmail.com

Web: http://santabarbara.usnachapters.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/santabarbara. chapterusna.9

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usnaalums santabarbara/

Katie Christman ’08, VADM Davids ’89, Wayne Goodroe ’65 and MIDN Mekenzie Espinola ’26

San Francisco Chapter: November Networking Event - Alumni in attendance were: Jason Aepli ’09; Dan Beck ’99; Andrew Chacko ’93; Devan Cross ’93; Ray Fazzio ’57; Mike Fazzio ’85; Brian Frack ’89; James Gafford ’78; Steve Hall ’75; Nick Kay ’99; Ben Moglen ’97; Frank Moreman ’81; Ryan Pinch ’18; Michael Rogers ’05; Justin Rogers ’11; Joshua Shamrakov ’18; Eric Smith ’11; John (Pete) Stevenson ’00; Renee Tanake ’97; Eashar Thenrattinam ’18 ; and Andrew Zakem ’91

San Francisco Chapter: East Bay led by Jason Aepli ’09 at the Stadium Pub in Walnut Creek. Army-Navy game viewing party alumni in attendance listed alphabetically: Jason Aepli ’09; Brian Clegg ’05; Devan Cross ’93; Frederic Ewing ’05; Tyler Faccar ’02; Ray Fazzio ’57; Mike Fazzio ’85; Jeff Hall ’83; Chris Kaiser ’92; Norman Marks ’67; Art Odem ’82; Ryan Pjnch ’18; Brian Primeaux ’17; Megan Primeaux ’17; Richard Stark ’64; and Renee Tanaka ’97

San Francisco Chapter: South Bay - Watch Party Fibbar Magee’s, Sunnyvale, CA. Pete Antoniak 67; Tim Henderson ’90; Mike Henny ’69; Victoria Hopman ’95; Dan Hopman’95; Amir Jenkins ’90; Spence Leslie; ’74; Glenn Porterfield ’92; Charlie Shoemaker ’64; Kent Ubewacker ’87; Mike Wanebo ’87 and Mark Watkins ’90.

San Francisco: San Francisco led by Joshua Shamrakov ’18 at Lost Marbles. Attendees - Nick Clouse ’08; Aubrey Cubilo ’11; Roy Gale ’67; Eric Gonzales ’03; Steve Hall ’75; John Paul ’05; Justin Rogers ’11; and Joshua Shamrakov ’18

Colorado

Colorado Chapter

Pres: CAPT S. Guy Higgins ’69, USN (Ret.) e: guyhiggins1234@gmail.com

Sec’y: CAPT Matthew McLaurin ’92 e: matthew.s.mclaurin@gmail.com

Website: http://usnacolorado.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Denver): CAPT Dick Eason ’84, USN (Ret.) p: 720-747-4615; e: dick.eason@lycos.com

Greetings fellow Colorado Alumni, It has been great seeing many of you at our Happy Hour events. Currently we have members hosting quarterly in Denver, Castle Rock and Louisville. Watch your email for announcements on the next event. We are looking for Alumni to host in other locations including Colorado Springs, please contact Kelly or Matt if interested.

We will be holding elections this year for open positions on the Board. Please consider becoming part of the Board and having a say in our Chapter. Watch for an email with more information this Spring or reach out to Kelly or Matt if you are interested in being involved.

As a reminder, your Colorado Chapter is registered with the King Soopers and City Market Community Rewards Program. Alumni who are registered with King Soopers/City Market/Kroger can designate the Chapter to receive cash rewards without any additional cost to the alumni. Please register your card using this link:  https://www.kingsoopers .com/i/community/community-rewards.

Look forward to seeing you at a Chapter event soon.

Go Navy!

Colorado Springs Chapter

Matt McLaurin

‘92

Pres: LCDR John Sledgianowski ’87, USN (Ret.) p: 719-287-2187; e: sledgesix@msn.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Andrew Graziano e: ajgraziano512@gmail.com

Connecticut

BGO Area Coordinator: Evan Barnet ’91 p: 203-249-0071; e: evan@barnetassociates.com

Connecticut Chapter

Pres: Alan Weigel ’79 p: 860-376-5775; e: aweigel@blankrome.com

Treas: Tom Hogsten ’85

Sec’y: Eric Irwin ’86 p: 860-857-8748; e: irwiner@comcast.net

Comms Dir: David Candler ’67 p: 860-823-0862; e: davcandler@aol.com

Meeting Chairman: Vacant

Website: http://connecticut.usnachapters.net

Naval Academy Parent Club of CT

Website: http://ct.usnaparents.net

Ahoy!

The highlight of the past month (January) for Alumni was the Connecticut Chapter annual

Blue & Gold Admissions Dinner on Thursday, 11 January 2024 at the Officer’s Club of Connecticut in Hartford. There was update on the state of the Academy and we met some of the young women and men from Connecticut who are candidates for admission and the Blue and Gold Officers who are guiding them through the admission process. A speaker from the Academy’s admissions department and our Blue & Gold Area Coordinator, Evan Barnet ’92, spoke about the admissions process and answered questions. That annual meeting is always very heartwarming! And the quality of candidates is awesome!

This Shipmate issue will be highlighting one of the most loved, most hated, most repressed (in some cases) and most fondly remembered (since you survived) moments and situations of all life. They can be the basis for profane and exclamatory remarks and in some cases the partial foundations for special groups and even religions. And certainly items that have an honorary place for that Special Item from an event (like the hat with the bullet hole thru the edge). The topic is “Close Calls”.

Since at this writing the football season is nearing an end, but culminating, I will start there. Have you noticed how the sports articles are depending on rather isolated game moments rather than the real game score and game-play comparisons? In the past couple of days articles from different sources did not tout the game scores, the abilities of each team as a whole, the QB passing and running stats, but often on one penalty, at a important time near the end of the game, and how that was arguable- thus a Close Call that made the whole game riding on it. The other touchdowns received no reporting if they were not close calls. But the excitement and adrenaline of those close moments is often why we watch, and read, …!

Like for example this years’s Army-Navy game and Navy QB sneak at end of the game. Clearly we did not succeed. BUT with only a couple of feet to go for the touchdown at the end of the game, and close score, the game depended on it. So: Close Call.

And an even more startling final second… A-N in 1963, Navy ahead by several points, with Roger the Dodger as QB. Army got the ball and had marched down the field in the past couple

of minutes but had been unstoppable. Less than a yard to go for winning TB. Seconds on the game clock. Army lined up. CROWD WENT WILD cheering for each team. It was literally deafening. Army QB yelled the ????. But his line could not hear him. Referee halted the game due to that over-noise. Pause… a bit quieter… restart… Cheering resumed worse than before! Army QB thought the game would be stopped again. No such luck. The seconds ticked by, no play, game ended. Referees walked off field. Crowd went momentary quiet then exploded. Navy win. CLOSE CALL!

Other than football, we have all had many close calls in our sports. And during our time at the Boat School there were no doubt many. And certainly after graduation, we and our Shipmates have certainly had the Experience (not all opportunities) of many such rememberable moments. Perhaps you would like to recount a few of them during quiet moments in the next day or two. And perhaps repress a few as well. Academy grads have a different technical meaning when we say the oft-spoken phrase “Been There, Done That”.

Should you have an incident or two of Close Calls that you would like to share, please send them to me: DavCandler@aol.com. Fair winds…

Dave Candler ’67

Costa Rica

BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Turbeville ’01 e: bgoarea501coordinator@gmail.com

Costa Rica Chapter

Pres: Claudio A. Pacheco ’64

Apt. 4307-1000, San Jose, Costa Rica p: 506-2224-4325; w: 506-2225-4239 c: 506-8876-1394; e: cpacheco@1964.usna.com

CLASS and CHAPTER OFFICERS

Please check your CLASS and CHAPTER headers. Send us your updates. CLASS officers, email to: classnews@usna.com

CHAPTER officers, email to: chapternews@usna.com

Connecticut Chapter: Annual Blue & Gold Admissions Dinner

Delaware

BGO Area Coordinator: Maj Brad Boyd ’87, USMC (Ret.) p: 302-377-4479; e: Brad.Boyd@bgo.usna.com

Delaware Chapter

Pres: Chris Dierkes ’85 p: 302-256-8949; h: 302-449-0795 e: Christopher.F.Dierkes-1@usa.dupont.com

Holidays at Hagley - First DuPont Black Powder Yard in America

Delaware Alumni kicked off the holiday season with a trip back in time to the famous Hagley Museum. A visit to the first DuPont family’s home in America. Holiday decorations peppered various rooms reflecting how the chemical giant’s family celebrated their yuletide season. Hagley Museum is one of the most inviting, preserved black powder mills since the founding of our country. Beautifully built stone structures built along the Brandywine River served to house a nineteenth-century machine shop (so cool) that depended on water turbines to operate. Line shafts transferred energy while a sixteen-ton roll mill slowly turned to make an end productblack powder. And of course, the explosive “bang” that makes one jump from an impressive black powder demonstration thrilled us all! The thought and complexity of every innovation in engineering and technology will blow your mind (no pun intended). So, get inspired, pick a nice day (preferably no rain in sight) and explore the sights and sounds of Hagley...all within our own backyard!

It was nice to get together following our interesting (but rainy) tour for lunch at nearby McGlynns Pub. It was great to share the days learnings while warming up to food, drink and new friends! Thank you to all who participated!

Florida

Gainesville Chapter

Pres: Vacant

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Steve Swift ’87, USNR e: sswift@1987.usna.com

Jacksonville Chapter

Pres: CAPT Scott Neidhold ’77, USNR (Ret.) e: scottneidholdsr@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Glen Hamilton ’85 e: glenhamilton@cbvfl.com

Treas and Chapter Trustee: Enochia Anderson ’94

Sec’y: Britney Brown ’12

Communication Director: CDR Nels Frostenson ’80, USN (Ret.) e: frostynels@aol.com

50 Year+ Alumni Liaison: CDR Peter Garfield ’60, USN (Ret.) p: 904-314-9691; e: pjgarfield@comcast.net

Website: jacksonville.usnachapters.net

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard O’Sullivan ’77, USN (Ret.) p: 407-687-6877; e: raaos@aol.com

Greater Miami Chapter

Pres: Thor C. Gould ’09

e: thor.gould@gmail.com

Website: www.usnamiami.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USNAMiami

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Dennis R. Neutze ’65, JAGC USN (Ret.) p: 305-705-4722; e: dennis.navy65@googlemail.com

Orlando Chapter

Pres: Christopher Clark ’01 e: clark15cr@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Marc Watson ’77

e: marc@marcwatson.com

Sec: Dave Shikada ’79 e: davidshikada@gmail.com

Treas: Shawn Wattles ’95

e: shawn.wattles@gmail.com

Webmaster: Greg Hemphill ’72

e: usnaamembershiporlando@gmail.com

Website: https://myusna.com/topics/9546

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1415188042037372

BGO Area Coordinator: Rich O’Sullivan ’77

e: RAAOS@aol.com

NEW HEADER UPDATE

A good number of spirited Orlando area Navy alumni, family, parents, friends and neighbors (sorry, no cats or dogs!) huddled in Ocoee to enjoy last December’s Army-Navy football event. Braving the 79 degree temperature and partly cloudy skies, we sorely missed being at the game. But everyone visibly enjoyed polishing off the impressive spread of tailgate chow,

with a few drinks, while almost willing Navy to a fourth quarter comeback win. Alumni in attendance were Chris Clark ’01, Larry Hays ’59, Tom Pax ’82, Dave Shikada ’79, Shawn Wattles ’95, and Dennis Viera ’77. Many thanks to Greg Hemphill ’72 and Chris Clark for securing the venue and coordinating the event.

Palm Beach Chapter

Pres: Ivan Rosa '84

e: irosa@1984.usna.com

p: 561-758-2358

Vice Pres: Kate Arrizza '03

e: karrizza@coxsciencecenter.org

p: 561-352-8519

Sec: Rick Salvadore '78

e: rick.salvadore@gmail.com

p: 312-925-7098

Treas: Vacant

BGO Area Coordinator: Capt Dennis R. Neutze '65, JAGC USN (Ret) e: dennis.navy65@googlemail.com p: 305-705-4722

Army-Navy Watch Party

Duffy’s Sports Bar in Palm Beach Gardens was the scene for our annual Army-Navy game watch party with the local WP chapter. Great turnout. This was the final watch party of the 2023 season that had many of our alumni participating over the course of the season. While we may not have won the game, we won the party with over 20 alumni and guests in attendance. Lots of great sea-stories and camaraderie with a good time had by all. Plenty of new faces along with new friendships made.

Membership and Volunteer Opportunities

If you haven’t signed up already, simply go to the Palm Beach group on myusna.com and follow the easy instructions. Or, reach out to your shipmates listed on the banner at the head of this article. The chapter encourages camaraderie and networking among our local alumni through events and gatherings. Our mission includes supporting our local BGO’s, prospective midshipmen, Parents Club, welcoming all Navy Alumni, and providing a forum to promote

From left to right: Chris Dierkes ‘85, Diane Durban ‘81, Jeff Frye ‘83 , Judy & Bob Perry ’81, Lenora & Dan Schroeder ’83 and Jerry (Keith) Smith ’74 with wife Helene. Picture submitted by Chris & Judy Dierkes.

Orlando Chapter: Post-game pic of Orlando Chapter watch party diehard

activities that support the Naval Academy. The chapter is also making a call for anyone interested in serving on the Board, or in any capacity. This is a great opportunity to bring your ideas forward and help us accomplish our mission in the upcoming years.

Pensacola Chapter

Co-Pres: Jose Perez ’10

Co-Pres: Joey Walker ’02 e: usnaaapensacola@gmail.com

Sec’y: JD Kameen o: 480-494-8973; c: 443-904-6160; f: 833-727-0813 e: jkameen@loandepot.com

Website: Pensacola.usnachapters.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Kilton Kingsman ’06 e: kilton.kingsman@gmail.com

Southwest Florida Chapter

Pres: Hank White ’68 e: hfwhitejr@aol.com

Sec’y: Lukas Rebertus ’12 e: lwrebertus@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Dennis R. Neutze ’65, JAGC USN (Ret.) p: 305-705-4722; e: dennis.navy65@googlemail.com

Website: southwestflorida.usnachapters.net

Space Coast Chapter

Pres: Geraldine Santos ’83 p: 626-376-6815; e: gwsantos83@gmail.com

Sec’y: Vacant

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard O’Sullivan ’77, USN (Ret.) p: 407-687-6877; e: raaos@aol.com

Suncoast Chapter

Pres: George Thompson ’77 e: thompsongw77@gmaill.com; p: 757-810-9532

Vice Pres: Alois “Al” Burda ‘68 e: alburda3@verizon.ne

Second Vice Pres: George “Bo” Hamrick ’79 e bhamrick@financialpreservation.com

Treas: Dick D’Anna ’68 e: dannari68@comcast.net

Sec’y: Vacant

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usnaalumniflorida suncoastchapter

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Steve Swift ’87, USNR (Ret.) e: sswift@1987.usna.com

Shipmates,

By the time you receive this, the “Dark Ages” will have started in Annapolis……but not for us on Florida’s Suncoast where we are enjoying the delightful Spring weather. The Gulf Coast beaches are so inviting, and the fishing is great! Oh, and did I mention incredible golf!

In football, it was a rough season for our boys in Blue and Gold, but we still had a few tailgates at local sports bars and celebrated our victories. Here’s a photo of the gang of Alums and wives and friends who showed up for our Beat Army Tailgate at Gecko’s in Sarasota.

Attendees included: Debbi Harvey (Don Harvey ’48) and friend Allison Sneed; Alex Morris ’56; Gayle Thompson ’61; Ron Barnett ’61 and Lynn Gregg; Nancy Bushnell (Vic Reiling ’62) and her son Ed; Tom and Mary Baer ’64; Al and Kate Burda ’68; Dick D’Anna ’68; Jerry and Janice Gallagher ’69; Mario and Sue Summa ’71; Jocko and Brenda Jastrab ’71; Bob and Lynne Smith ’73; Steve Horton ’73; Doug and Susan Crowder ’74, Steve Bartek ’74; Craig and Darlene Harvey ’76; Jim and Laura Blasko ’77; Bo Hamrick ’79; Joe and Neesh Hayden ’80; Ed Landrith ’92 and Navy Vet Lou Sauppe.

It was a tough loss. Army 17 Navy 11. Navy did not come alive until late in the game and lost its chance in the last minute with an incredible goal line stand by Army. We’ll get ’em next year.

The Inaugural Patriots’ Gala sponsored by the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda on January 6 at the Sunseeker Resort in Port Charlotte was well attended by Florida Suncoast Chapter members. The Gala was held to honor

Palm Beach Army-Navy Watch party

Suncoast Chapter: Army Navy 2023

CHAPTER NEWS

all who served. Local Congressman Greg Steube, himself a combat veteran addressed those assembled. Florida Suncoast Chapter members attending included USNA Distinguished Graduate Larry Chambers ’52 as well as new Chapter President George Thompson ’77, Vice President Al Burda’68, Gary Harrell ’76, and Ray SantaCruz ’95. Midn 4/c Brian O’Leary ’2027 was present with his family, all veterans, including his father Dr. Dan O’Leary who was honored as the Museum’s Wall of Warriors recipient. Truly a memorable event!

Tampa Bay Chapter

Pres: CDR Jane Lochner ’84, USN (Ret.) e: jane.lochner@gmail.com

Sec’y: CAPT Chris Heath ’72, USN (Ret.) e: christopherheath.fl@gmail.com

MyUSNA: https://myusna.com Select Groups, Tampa Bay, and request to join this closed group

Website: http://tampabay.usnachapters.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/USNAAlumni-TampaSt-Petersburg/120095454740213?sk=wall

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Steve Swift ’87, USNR (Ret.) e: sswift@1987.usna.com

We hope your new year is off to a great start. We’ve been rolling in Tampa Bay, and spring is our busiest season of activities. As you read this, we will have enjoyed a pro hockey game, socialized at Top Golf, and held our annual Candidate Information Picnic in March. We love pulling off fun, spirited activities!

NAVY FOOTBALL SUNK BY ARMY

It was a tough season, but you have to admire the grit and persistence of the Navy team. Despite the 17-11 loss, Navy fought until the end and almost pulled it out. We provided a strong showing of alumni support at joint watch parties in Tampa and St. Petersburg. Overall, the Mids posted a season record of 5-7. Wait ‘til next year! GO NAVY!

THE LIGHTNING STRUCK!

In January we hosted other service academy alumni from USAFA and USMA at our annual NHL game. Over 50 combined alumni and guests turned out to see the Tampa Bay Lightning outskate the Anaheim Ducks 5-1. It was a rowdy, NHL-worthy outing, enjoyed by all!

SWIFT ’87 AND QUILTY ’89 GO FOR A SWIM

Steve Swift ’87 and Chris Quilty ’89 maintain an extraordinary record. They are the only individuals to have participated in all fifteen iterations of the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim, a 3.4 mile swim across Tampa Bay to benefit the Navy SEAL Foundation. Started in 2010 by USNA grad Dan O’Shea 91, this year’s swim raised over $1 million for the families of fallen SEALs. The swimmers inspire donations, and other alumni participate as kayakers and other types of volunteers/supporters. Congratulations, guys!

MONTHLY MEETINGS

Monthly chapter meetings provide a forum for catching up on USNA news, as well as spirited planning, networking, and socializing. If you are new to the area or have been around a while and just haven’t gotten to a meeting, this is a great way to get to see new and old friends. Come on out to Tate’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria on the first WED of each month at 1800.

Participants in December and January included Jane Lochner ’84, Fr. Tim Corcoran ’67, Jonathan Shannon ’02, Paul Matthews ’85, Warren Hahn ’60, Chris Heath ’72, Tom Draude ’62, Steve Swift ’87, Don Aiken ’78, Chris Thompson ’92, Brian Tsai ’16, John Kamen ’77, Don Patterson ’74, Gary Polansky ’69, Peter Damisch ’75, Jim Kramer ’74, Jon Kirsch ’95, Tom Hartline ’81, Miller Detrick ’63, Bill Graham ’72, Eric Kennington ’88, Todd Barrett ’00 and Austin Gullett ’03.

“Joining the table” were new members Nathan Scott ’02, Marshall Swor ’88 and James Saylor ’13.

Welcome aboard, shipmates!

Watch for information to sign up for these future events:

Future Events

- Monthly Meetings on first Wednesday of each month (no sign-up needed)

- All-Academy Tampa Bay Rays game vs. the Washington Nationals – 29 June

- Army-Navy golf - TBD

Our social media links are above in our Chapter header. Don’t forget to enroll on MyUSNA.com, our new all-service platform, and join the Tampa Bay Chapter – a Distinguished Chapter in 2020-2021-2022-2023.

Everything’s great in the Sunshine State!

Chris Heath ‘72 Chapter Secretary

Georgia

Atlanta Chapter

Pres: DJ Marzetta ’94 p: 404-996-7019; e: djmarzetta@gmail.com

Sec’y: LCDR John “Wiz” Withers ’79, USN (Ret.) e: JDWithers@1979.usna.com

Website: http://www.usnaaaa.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Atlanta/North Georgia): Deborah Catrini e: deborah.catrini@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Southern Georgia): Ryan McDonel e: rmcdonel.usna@gmail.com

Atlanta is back, y’all!

In December an intrepid band of Atlanta Alumni faced off against those pesky “Hudson-ites” of the Atlanta West Point chapter. The annual Atlanta Metro Army-Navy Watch Party was held on 9 December at the Mutation Brewing Company in Sandy Springs. There were a combined 265 signups for the event. Unfortunately, the Black Knights trounced us again this year

L to R Midn O’Leary, DGA Larry Chambers and Ray Santa-Cruz

L to R Gary Harrell, George Thompson and Al Burda Watch for announcements for luncheons and mixers in the coming months.

in attendance – winning streaks will do that. However, chapter president Dante “DJ” Marzetta ’94 reports that there was no lack of spirit, camaraderie and fun. (It would have been MORE fun had the game turned out differently, but I digress…)

Besides our chapter president, attendees included Jan and Jon Barton ’66, Jim Murphy ’73, several Navy parents, and Deborah Catrini, one

of our Blue & Gold coordinators. I know there were others – I don’t have a complete list of chapter members present. (“No excuse, Sir!”) I’m sure I’ll have to go to come-around for this…

On 10 February we held our “Dark Ages” Party at the 57th Fighter Group Restaurant in Atlanta. I’ll have a complete report on that in our next issue.

One question I often get is “How can I get notified of upcoming Atlanta Chapter events”?” The best way is to make sure you’re on our email list. First, log into your profile on USNA.com and make sure your email address is current. Our email list comes directly from the Alumni Assn. database. As a backup, you can also email me, and I can verify your profile is current and that we have your correct email address on file.

Another way to keep up is by visiting the chapter website at https://atlanta.usnachapters. net/ . Our webmaster works tirelessly to keep the site up to date. We also post on the chapter’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ USNAAtlanta.

Atlanta chapter events are open to alumni in the Atlanta metro area. All alumni, whether they live in Atlanta or just passing through, are welcome to attend as a guest. We always encourage membership, but please don’t let that deter you from participating in a future meeting. The door is always open!

Wiz Withers ‘79

Hawaii

Hawaii Chapter

Pres: Ted Peck ’88 p: 808-371-7514; e: ted.peck@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Keno Knieriem ’06

e: keno@honokea.com

Sec'y: Eric Kimura ’76 e: kimurayoshihiro9@gmail.com

Comms: Brian C. Smith ’05

e: brian.conley.smith@gmail.com

Treas: Tom Marzec ’87 e: tamarzec@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Jason Afong ’06, USN e: Jason.afong@bgo.usna.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ USNAAA.Honolulu; https://www.facebook.com/ NavalAcademyHawaii/

Idaho

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Todd Severance ’92, USN (Ret.) p: 208-620-9436; e: tjseverance1992@gmail.com

Northwest Chapter

Pres: Brad Little ’76

p: 619-459-6352

e: BLittle1052@outlook.com

Treas: William Crumpler ’65 p: 509-447-7956

VA Coord: John Lasher ’69 p: 208-664-6753

Activities Coord: Peter Optekar ’63 p: 208-762-4571

Greetings Shipmates, Classmates, Significant Others, and further scalawags,

The Northwest Chapter kicked off the new year with a grand celebration of the Army Navy at the Hayden Lake Country Club (picture below), doing our best to substitute good camaraderie for a lousy score. Events kicked off with Henry Netzer ’74, North Region Chair of the USS IDAHO (SSN-799) Commissioning Committee, with an update on the Commissioning of IDAHO and date (still undetermined) for the festivities. Henry was followed by Brett Bower representing the VA in the Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington. Brett provided

Atlanta Army-Navy Watch Party

Atlanta Army-Navy Watch Party

Atlanta Army-Navy Watch Party

Atlanta Chapter: Army-Navy Watch party

Northwest Chapter: Army-Navy celebration

CHAPTER NEWS

a quick review of activities at the VA and an overview of assistance programs available in the area. Finally, we held the election of Officers for 2024. The results are in: Brad Little ’76, President, 619-459-6352; William Crumpler ’65, Treasurer, 509-447-7956; John Lasher ’69, VA Coordinator, 208-664-6753; Peter Optekar ’63, Activities Coordinator, 208-762-4571.

Speaking of activities, make sure you are on our distro by contacting one of the above. Bi-weekly Bowling, Monthly Ski Outings, Bi-monthly Happy Hours, Lake Days and Float days when the weather warms up, are all on the agenda.

With all that said and done, the game, Ughhhh….

Finally, on behalf of the USS I DAHO Commissioning Committee let me offer that the Commissioning will be broadcast at watch parties throughout Idaho, including the Hayden Lake Country Club. Reach out if you would like join us.

Anchors Away!!!

Southern Idaho Chapter

Pres: Paul Campbell ’98

e: Paul.Campbell@1998.usna.com

Vice Pres: Rick Schellhaas ’68 e: rbschellhaas@gmail.com

Sec’y: Rufus Taylor ’66 e: tincansailor980@gmail.com

Treas: Ted Nunamaker ‘96 e: tjnunamaker@gmail.com

Idaho Parents’ Club President: Nicola McIntosh (Luke ’24)

e: idusnaparents@hotmail.com

SIC members joined with the USMA AOG for our annual Army-Navy game watch party. A large contingent of both USNA alumni and USMA AOG members was present, accompanied by lots of cheering and pushups, but not many for Navy. “Singing First” makes the “Dark Ages“ even darker. So close to the goal line but no cigar. Wait ‘til next year! Along with spouses, family, parents and friends, and alumni, SIC attendees included Steve Berg ’66, Rufus Taylor ’66, Del Giffin ’67, Dennis Hanrahan ’68, Tom Neville ’68, Rick Schellhaas ’68, Tom Simmonds ’73, Ken Vanderhorst ’79, Rich Waddel ’80, Ed Brzezinski ’85, Roy Ledesma ’87, Van States ’91, Todd Severance ’92, Chris Horak ’94, Dave Overcash ’95, Paul Campbell ’98, Andrea Hovey ’03, Steve Rainy ’09 and Cody Rome ’12 Many thanks to the Warhawk Aviation Museum in Nampa, Idaho for the venue. Food and beverage were graciously provided by the 13th Street Pub & Grill, Holy Smokes BBQ & Catering and Bear Island Brewery. Thanks to all!

The 24th annual All Service Academy Ball took place on 30 December at the Riverside Hotel in Garden City, Idaho. Thanks to Roy Ledesma ’87 who served as a great master of ceremonies. There was an excellent pre-dinner program, a silent auction, and recognition of

those who have gone before us along with the appropriate solemnity. Our keynote speaker was VADM John Fuller ’87, Naval Inspector General. Thanks to Nicola McIntosh, USNA Parents’ Club president, for her work in helping to organize the event. Alumni and chapter members present with their Spouses/SO’s included Mike Coyle ’65, Bill Previty ’65, Tom Neville ’68, Dennis Hanrahan ’68, Rick Schellhaas ’68, Roy Ledesma ’87, Jim Matheson ’87, Mike Bisbee ’96 and Cody Rome ’12

Midshipmen present included Lucas Gabrieli ’24, Cecelia Wheeler ’24, Luke McIntosh ’24, Nicholas Schiedler ’25, Sam Kerley ’26 and Kate LeBaron ’27

and

The Southern Idaho Chapter (SIC) meets monthly. Alumni and their spouses/SOs living in or visiting the Boise area are invited to join us. If you would like information about SIC activities, contact Rufus Taylor ‘66 at <tincansailor980@ gmail.com>.

Illinois

Chicago Chapter

Pres: Eric Sucharski ’91

e: eric@sucharskilaw.com

Vice Pres: Michael Cortesio ’85

e: mjcortesio@comcast.net

Sec’y: John Killacky ’93

e: j4killacky@comcast.net

Treas: Michelle Lee ’16

e: michelle.lee@bgo.usna.com

Past Pres: Fred Weber ’75

e: Fred.weber@2comm.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Northern IL)

LCDR Drew Thomas ’04 USNR

e: drew.thomas@bgo.usna.com

This past Fall, the Chicago chapter participated in an All Academies networking event at the newly renovated USO on the Great Lakes Naval base in North Chicago. More than 20 Annapolis alumni joined graduates from the other service academies to socialize and receive a brief from the Commanding Officer of the Recruit Training Command (RTC) on how the Navy is training the Navy’s newest recruits. The command holds 52 graduations every Thursday of the year.

VADM Fuller ‘87, Roy Ledesma ’87, Jim Matheson ‘87 and Idaho Midshipmen.

’68 classmates with VADM Fuller ’87: Tom Neville, Dennis Hanrahan and Rick Schellhaas.

’87 classmates

old tales being retold by Roy Ledesma, VADM Fuller, and Jim Matheson.

Chicago Chapter alums at the Great Lakes USO

The chapter was well represented at the Service Academy Networking Group meeting in November. The meeting was hosted by John Killacky ’93. Fred Weber ’75, Gary Rau ’76, Gerry Pukach ’88 and Mark Metzger ’89 joined colleagues from USMA and USAFA to hear a presentation on the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). This group meets several times a year for networking and sharing of business opportunities. Be on the look out for the next meeting.

Chicagoland Class of 2016 at the Army- Navy watch part

Finally, the annual Army-Navy watch party with both fan bases was held at Kincade’s Bar and Grill in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. Once again, those in attendance were treated to an exciting game. The Class of 2016

KANSAS

Welcome Aboard Wichita Chapter!

had the most attendees with Mitch Evans, Michelle Lee, and Mike Dennison cheering on the Blue and Gold. Others that made it out to watch the game included Fred Weber ’75, Bill Frost ’77, Jim Wilson ’86, Tom Coyne ’87, John Sprenger ’88, Nick Etten ’89, and plenty of families of current Chicagoland midshipmen.

Indiana

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR Drew Thomas ’04, USNR p: 317-682-8441; e: drew.thomas@bgo.usna.com

Indianapolis Chapter

CDR Lynn Thomas ’83, USN h: 317-329-1773; e: lynntw@aol.com

Michiana Chapter

Pres: Maj Michael Rose '11, USMC 61705 Greentree Dr., South Bend, IN 46614 c: 574-323-3779; e: mgcrose13@gmail.com

Vice Pres/Sec’y: CDR John “Chris” Haizlip ’72, USN (Ret.) 15246 Longford Dr., Granger, IN 46530 p: 574-273-2939; e: CHaizlip@aol.com

Treas: CAPT John Strauss ’69, USN (Ret.) e: e:jstrauss3373@att.net

Greetings from the wintry Midwest. Not a lot to report this issue...everybody seems to be busy shoveling snow from their front

One of the newest USNAAA chapters received its charter in early November 2023. This effort has been spearheaded by the local Blue and Gold Officer Area Coordinator, Donald Peacock ’93.

The first Chapter Officers are:

President - Don Beverlin ’78

VP - Matt Treaster ’88

Secretary - Hunt Parker ’63

Treasurer - Angel Ortiz ’98

Our first activity was an Army-Navy watch party at Deano’s Grill and Tapworks in Wichita, KS. There were 15 alumni and family members. We even had two Zoomies show up to cheer for Navy.

The Board of Directors has established our first official meeting on 19 February…where we will be discussing voting on bylaws, the possibility of annual dues and the upcoming election for a Board of Directors.

It is very appropriate, and long past due, to have a Wichita Chapter. We are thankful for all the USNA Alumni members that helped us finally get started.

Since the ’30s Wichita manufactures have produced thousands of trainers and transports for the Navy:

* Stearman/Boeing PT-17 (Kaydet) “Yellow Peril”

* Beech/Raytheon model 18 series C-45/SNB/RC45 Twin Beech

* AT-11 bombing trainer

* T-34C Mentor

* T-6A Texan II.

We look forward to a strong and enduring relationship with Shipmate and the Naval Academy Alumni Association!

walks...and trying to stay warm during the frigid below zero temps...brrr! Even the BBQ grills are angry! (See the photo on the next page.)

One mad BBQ grill

Don Peacock '93 and USAFA co-workers cheering Navy on to victory

Wichita Alum and Family enjoying the Army-Navy watch party at Deano's

Iowa

See Minnesotta

Send Shipmate input to: Nathan CW Smith ’98 e: nathancwsmith@outlook.com

BGOArea Coordinator: Ted Olt III ’85 p: 563-355-1709; e: tolt@l-wlaw.com

Kansas

Wichita Chapter

Pres: Don Beverlin ’78 p: 316-721-7947; e: wuba78@att.net

Vice Pres: Matt Treaster ’88 p: 316-706-8594; e: matt.treaster@usdoj.gov

Sec’y: Alson (Hunt) Parker ’63 p: 316-634-3844; e: hunt@theaerogroup.com

Treasurer: Angel Ortiz ’98 p: 785-643-6698; e: ort12@hotmail.com

Kentucky

Louisville/Southern Indiana Chapter

Pres: CAPT Gregory Reinhardt ’79, USNR (Ret.) 712 Talon Pl., Louisville, KY 40223 p: 502-244-7707; e: greinhardt@1979.usna.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Gregory Reinhardt ’79, USN (Ret.) p: 502-244-7707; e: greinhardt@1979.usna.com

Louisiana

Louisiana Chapter

Pres: Garrett Miller ’95 p: 985-590-2425, e: torrens.miller@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Bob Ferrante ’90 p: 985- 237-2091; e: mbrlj5@gmail.com

Sec’y: Wayne Morgan ’98 e: wayne.morgan@1998.usna.com

Treas: Drew Dodenhoff ’70 e: drewdode@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.USNALouisiana.org

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR Jessica Thornhill ’01 e: jessica.mp.thornhill@gmail.com

Maine

Maine Chapter

Pres: LT Jen Bohr Tyll ’01, USNR e: jenbohrtyll@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: LT Jen Bohr Tyll ’01, USNR p: 207-829-8159; e: jenbohrtyll@gmail.com

Maryland

Annapolis Chapter

Pres: Michael Rapp ’91 e: michaelrapp999@gmail.com

Vice Pres: James McNeal ’86 e: jamesm@ispards.com

Sec’y–Shipmate Contact: Liesel (Danjczek) Schopler ’99 e: lieseldanjczek@hotmail.com

Treas: Chuck Dixon ’79 e: CBDixon@firstcommand.com

Membership: James McNeal ’86 e: jamesm@ispards.com

Website: http://annapolis.usnachapters.net

Join the Chapter: https://www.signupnow. events/USNA AlumniChapter_Annapolis/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ 1118214745191/ (or search for: Naval Academy Alumni Annapolis Chapter)

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR Charles Mello e: Charlesmello@gmail.com

Thank you for responding to our trusted partner PCI’s, post cards to update your contact information.

Check out the link for information.

Baltimore Chapter

Pres: Jason Hardebeck ’87 p: 443-269-1599; e: jhardebeck@whoglue.com

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR Charles Mello e: Charlesmello@gmail.com

Join the Chapter: https://www.signupnow.events/USNA Alumni Chapter_ Annapolis/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ 1118214745191/ (or search for: Naval Academy Alumni Annapolis Chapter)

Greater Southern Maryland Chapter

Pres: Micheal W. Thumm ’75 e: thummer75@md.metrocast.net

Sec’y: Katie Ellefson ’13 p: 661-992-9190; e: katieelllefson13@gmail.com

Corr Sec’y: Michael Dougherty ’73 p: 240-925-7518; e: doughertymj8@aol.com

Website: http://www.navyalumni.org

BGO Area Coordinator: Kevin Schaaff e: Kevin.Schaaff@bgo.usna.com

Events

Eggs & Legs breakfast held on 8 Dec at the Olde Towne Café in Leonardtown. Great attendance! Colors presented by the Great Mills HS JROTC unit.

Chapter elections held in Jan, results to be presented at the Dark Ages dinner on 2 Feb.

Coming Events:

21 Mar 2024: Happy hour, Flight Deck Lounge NAS Pax River

9 Apr 2024: Spring Social and Chapter meeting at the Brudergarten in Leonardtown

20 Jun 2024: Happy Hour, Flight Deck Lounge (NAS Pax River)

Please check your e-mail and the GSMC website (www.navyalumni.org)

And a small crowd gathered for our annual Army-Navy event at the new Clover Hotel (the former Waterford Estate Lodge). (L-R): LtCol Kent Laudeman, USA (Ret.), Bill Mountford ’83, Deb & Pat Sloan ’75, Joan & Chris Haizlip ’72, and Mike Anderson, USN Team RWB.

Greater Southern Maryland Chapter Eggs/Legs breakfast: Enjoying a great breakfast at the Olde Town Café in Leonardtown, MD.

Greater Southern Maryland Chapter Eggs/Legs breakfast: Enjoying a great breakfast at the Olde Town Café in Leonardtown, MD.

Massachusetts

Boston Chapter

Pres: James Kras ’69

141 Dorchester Ave., Unit 406, South Boston, MA 02127-1836 p: 617-645-1032; e: jameskras@comcast.net

Shipmate contact: CAPT Pete Seibert ’65 p: 781-235-5909; e: pkseibert@comcast.net

Website: http://boston.usnachapters.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Boston and SE Mass): John Rinkacs e: rinkacs@comcast.net

BGO Area Coordinator (N Shore and Central Mass): CDR David Grim e: david.grim@1982.usna.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Western Mass): Ken Walton e: ken.walton@bgo.usna.com

It took Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, over ten years to convince the Navy and Army academies to hold the fabled Army-Navy football game at Gillette Stadium outside of Boston. But what a show it was. The game was sold out with ticket demand greater than that of Taylor Swift.

The festivities began on Friday. Beginning at 0800 there was a Tug of War followed by a Parade, a Pep Rally and a Relay Race. These activities concluded with a gala dinner at the Hynes Convention Center preceded by a battle of the pipe bands, breathless cheerleader gymnastic performances and both Army and Navy Band performances.

Yours truly had the pleasure of dining with Amy Garwood, Director of Alumni Travel, her husband Casey Garwood ’93 and their daughter, Abby. Also present at the dinner was Bill Malloy ’80, former president of the Boston Chapter and CDR Michael J. Siedsma ’05, CO of the USS MASSACHUSETTS (SSN 798) being built at Newport News to be commissioned in Boston next year. More on that later. He was accompanied by his Weaps, LCDR Andrew C. Haines ’12 and his PAO LT Michaela S. White ’19

On game day, there were three tailgates, which took place in Patriot Place next to the stadium. There was an alumni Tailgate at Bar Louie and another Navy Tailgate for the President’s Circle at the Cross Pavilion.

The third was a joint Army-Navy Tailgate and Game Watch sponsored by Army at the Helix for ticketholders and non-ticket holders who wanted to be at the stadium to be part of the excitement and camaraderie. This tailgate, which included many Navy attendees including Chapter President Jim Kras ’69, attracted over 500 attendees of which 220 were non-ticket holders. After the game Army admitted over 300 additional non-ticketed people supplying a warm place to wait out the notoriously slow exit of Gillette Stadium.

After cruising a couple of the tailgates, I had the good fortune of attending a suite sponsored by the New England Center and Home for Veterans in Boston whose President and CEO is CAPT Andy McCawley ’80. Other attendees included Andy’s son, Charles, an Army Major and West Point graduate (the group was

non-denominational), classmate John Thompson ’80,and Rick Doran ’81, Andy’s VP of Government Relations at the Center as well as Jim Matheson and Ed Schofield ’87 and Ed’s wife, Jan, and Ben Langis ’90

I was accompanied by my lovely wife of twenty-nine years, Midge, plus classmates Steve Chubb ’65 and his charming wife, Patricia, and Brian Doherty ’65. We were also joined by Professor Qamar-ul Huda, PhD, Michael E. Paul Distinguished Visiting Professor, International Affairs at USNA, a chair established by Steve. The suite afforded us a perfect view of the game at the thirty yard line while mixing with Army and Navy supporters alike and enjoying food and drink.

Michigan

Michigan Chapter

Pres: Maj Joe Zane ’07, USMCR e: joseph.zane.2007@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Shawn Hoch ’08 e: shawn.hoch@2008.usna.com

Website: http://detroit.usnachapters.net

Communications Sec’y: Chris Bernard ’88 e: gcb117@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Eastern): CAPT Michael Johnson ’79, USNR e: mj007mj@hotmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator (West & Upper): Col Benjamin Richmond ’93, USMCR e: brichmond97@earthlink.net

Since our last article, two events of note took place. First, we had a great time at the Army/Navy viewing party jointly hosted by the Michigan Chapter and the West Point Society of Michigan! While the final score didn’t turn out as we would have liked, the game was hard-fought and we had a great time. With almost 100 people in attendance, it was our most-attended event in recent memory. Second, we had a luncheon on January 16th at Ford’s Garage in Dearborn. While the winter weather almost threatened our plans again, we had 8 alumni brave the cold, and we had a great time catching up.

Cheerleading at Gala

L to R: White, Haines and Siedsma at gala

L to R: Amy, Casey and Abby Garwood at gala

Michigan Chapter: The Army/Navy viewing party hosted at the Detroit Yacht Club.

By the time you read this, we should have met up for a 100th Night celebration on February 10th. There should be a March luncheon on March 12th. Keep your eye out on your e-mail for details. If you are reading this and want to join but haven’t seen that e-mail, feel free to reach out to me personally at joseph.zane.2007@gmail.com. As always, keep your eye out on MyUSNA and your e-mail for the latest on events and updates.

Thank you for reading, and until next time: Beat Army!

Joe Zane ‘07 Chapter President

Minnesota

Upper Midwest Chapter

Pres: Brian E. Ries ’93

c: 858-335-7921

e: ries.briane@gmail.com

Shipmate Contact: Position Open

Website: myUSNA.com Chapter Grouphttps://myusna.com/topics/9586/home

Facebook: www.fb.com/USNAAAUpperMidwest

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Mark J. Salmen ’73, USN (Ret.) NAIP Area Coordinator-Minnesota

15230 Afton Hills Dr. South; Afton, MN 55001-9670 p: 651-436-5842; c: 651-271-6690

e: mark.salmen@1973.usna.com; e: mjsalmen@aol.com

Chapter News:

Brian Ries ’93, has been appointed as Interim Chapter President until such time that an Annual Meeting can be organized (Target: Fall 2024) and nominations/voting for board members can be held. Currently, board positions for the three Vice Presidents (Communications, Events, and Membership) are open. If you would like to support our chapter in any of these areas pro tempore, please contact Brian at: ries.briane@gmail.com.

Our online hub for the Chapter (information, events, memberships, etc.) is currently transitioning to the Chapter Group at myUSNA.com. If you have not activated your account or joined the group, please visit myUSNA.com. We are currently in the process of migrating Member status and enabling dues payment. Visit the Events section for current/upcoming events. Please have patience as we make this transition. We look forward to a new day for the chapter and great things to come. Go Navy! Beat Army!

Mississippi

BGO Area Coordinator: David Price ’78 e: dep-78@sbcglobal.net

South Mississippi Chapter

Pres: CDR E. Spencer Garrett IV ’88, USNR P.O. Box 1792, Gautier, MS 39553 p: 228-497-5050; e: esgarrett44@aol.com

Sec’y: CAPT Harry J. Rucker ’73, USN (Ret.) e: navynomad50@caldeone.net

Missouri

Greater Kansas City Metro Chapter

Pres: Bob Culler ’74 p: 913-488-6319; e: bculler@sbcglobal.net

Vice Pres: Victor Hurlbert ’10 p: 816-665-1647; e: victorh@yahoo.com

Treas: Eric Carlson ’74 p: 913 481-5436; e: j.eric.carlson@gmail.com

Website: http://KansasCity.usnachapters.net

BGO Area Coordinator: Lee Gilgour ’01 e: Gilgour42@gmail.com

St. Louis Chapter

Pres: Lowell Crow ’84 p: 309-509-0279

lowelldcrow@gmail.com

Website: https://stlusna.com

Shipmate contact: John Winkler ’85 p: 314-497-4917; e: jkwinkler@earthlink.net

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Kent Higginbotham ’76, USN (Ret.) e: kenth@hbistl.com

Montana

BGO Area Coordinator: Andy Metroka e: METROKA@MT.NET

Nebraska

BGO Area Coordinator: Eric Taylor e: etaylor@1994.usna.com

Omaha Chapter

Pres: Jeremiah Binkley ’00 e: jeremiah.binkley@yahoo.com

Website: http://omaha.usnachapters.net/

Nevada

BGO Area Coordinator: Joe Holland ’03 e: joe.holland03@gmail.com

Las Vegas Chapter

Pres: Corwin Karaffa ’77 e: cjkaraffa@gmail.com

Sec’y: Glenn Truitt ’97 e: glenn@idealbusinsspartners.com

Website: http://southernnevada.usnachapters.com/

The Las Vegas Chapter reprised our hosting role for the Army-Navy Game Party at the MacKenzie River Pizza, Grill & Pub at City National Arena in Henderson on 9 December and despite another last second heartbreak, we again broke our attendance record, with plenty of rowdy Army fans, another amazing buffet from our hosts, and our now-famous chapter spouses’ homemade cookie lineup.

On Thursday, 18 April 2024, the Las Vegas Aviators, the pride of Minor League Baseball, will be hosting the Chapter for our THRID annual Service Academy Night, and tickets to sit with the group can be purchased here (https:// fevo.me/2024usna) $55 per person (includes game tickets, food and a non-alcoholic beverage). This event is an annual favorite, and we have no plans to stop! As in past years, we are planning to open the tickets to USMA and USAFA alumni chapters at a later date but we would love to have more NAVY folks than anyone else! We’d love to see you, even if it’s your first time out!

We are always planning smaller, local events, as well, so please stay tuned to your favorite source of Chapter news! As always, the Chapter puts out all of its news and events on our Facebook page – so if you’re not a member yet, come find us at: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/851758039084714. The latest pictures, event invitations, and all the good gouge can be found! GO NAVY! VIVA LAS VEGAS!

January Luncheon at Ford’s Garage in Dearborn.

Las Vegas Chapter:

New Jersey

Pres: Patrick Hurley ’87 e: patrick.hurley@1987.usna.com

BGO Area Coordinator (North NJ): Marcy Abbate e: Abbate.Marcy.M@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator (South NJ): Martha Christinziano e: Christinziano.area114@gmail.com

Website: www.usnanj.org

New Mexico

New Mexico Chapter

Pres: John Scott Kraus ’73

2304 Madre Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112 h: 505-296-7409; c: 505-366-7457 e: skraus@aquilagroup.com; or jkraus2304@aol.com

Sec’y: Joseph McGuire ’68 p: 505-857-9679; e sunnymack@msn.com

Vice Pres: Dr. Doug Meints ’77 p: 505-888-6800; e: dmeintschiro@gmail.com

NM Parents’ Club Pres: Sheila Chapman p: 505-419-2633; e: usna.nm.parents@gmail.com

Website: http://newmexico.usnachapters.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT David Swingle e: dswingle@newmexico.com

The much-anticipated Army/Navy football contest kicked off on 9 December 2023, the highlight of the New Mexico’s Chapter’s social calendar. The Chapter’s alumni and guests

gathered in a TV room dedicated to the Army/Navy game at the Craft Republic in Albuquerque. Attending were: Leo Stockham ’56; Brink Trammell ’57; Dottie & G.J. (Hoppy) Hopkins ’59; Bonnie & Mike Blackledge ’63; Olen Thompson ’63; Kip Paskewich ’65; Joe McGuire ’68; Paul Wilson ’68; Asby Albright ’71 Assoc.; Lynden (Tolly) Toliver ’71; Ed Johnson ’73; Scott Kraus ’73; Lauren & Max Legg ’74; Jay Carrizales ’75; Doug Meints ’77; Bonnie & Mikey Weinstein (USAFA ’77); Pamela & Tom Kennedy ’82; Deborah & Mark Schaefer ’83; Mark Hawkins ’85 with guests Nathan & Rosa Linda Goldfein; Bill & Anne Hammond ’86; Quincy Fleming ’91 & husband Chris Walton with son Chris and mother; Shelly Price ’96; Christine Hoaglund ’97; Elsie Begay & Jacey Carl - family of Courtney Lapahie ’17; and ’26 Parents Matt & Roberta Fotter. Visiting alums included Stephen Barnes ’74 from Oklahoma City and Adam Hesch ’08 from Washington, D.C. The Chapter’s annual meeting was held by President Scott Kraus during the halftime break.

Four USNA Alumnae connect at Army/Navy

2023 JSAR Keynote Speaker

CAPT Keith “Casey” Jones ’60 USN

On 30 December, the annual Joint Service Academy Reception (JSAR) was held in Albuquerque for all NM service academy students and their families. The event was organized by the President of the USNA Parents Club Ms. Sheila Chapman, assisted by Ms. Paige Lewis. Twenty service academy members from Annapolis MD, West Point NY, Colorado Springs CO, and New London CT, with most in their dress uniforms, attended. One student from each service gave a short talk on their experiences at their school and their future career plans. The keynote speaker, CAPT Keith (Casey) Jones USN ’60 (Ret.), congratulated the midshipmen and cadets on selecting a career of service to the country and congratulated their parents, as well, for imbuing their sons and daughters with the desire to serve. Using his experience, he pointed out to the midshipmen and cadets that during their time in service, they could well be called upon to serve in combat.

New York

New York Capital District Chapter

Pres: David Mendez ’11

e: david.mendez-sankrith@2011.usna.com

Sec’y: Gordon Lattey

40 First St., Troy, NY 12180

p: 518-274-4989; e: ussslater@aol.com

Website: http://capitaldistrictny.usnachapters.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Jessica Barr

e: jessiebarr.usna99bgo@yahoo.com

Central New York Chapter

Pres: Steve Erb ’68

e: steveerb@windstream.net

Sec’y/Treas: Bob Fegan Jr. ’64

e: bobfegan64@gmail.com

Website: CentralNY.usnachapters.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Tom Ravener

e: tom.ravener@gmail.com

A very few alumni, and Navy family and friends were able to get-together at the Brae Loch Inn

New Mexico Chapter: Eighteen USNA New Mexico alums gather for the 2023 Army/Navy football game in Albuquerque

New Mexico Chapter: 2023 NM Joint Service Academy Reception (JSAR)

(Ret.)

CHAPTER NEWS

in Cazenovia for the Army-Navy game. Alumni attending were Rob Sawyer ’84, Bob Fegan ’64 and his wife Marilyn, and Howard Gutzman ’75 and his wife Mary. Also attending was Andy Hardman, a retired Navy captain and aviator. The result of the game was enjoyed by a few Army fans in attendance.

Alumni, family and friends are encouraged to attend the weekly Wednesday lunch at 1200 at Clear Path for Veterans in Chittenango. You can call (315-687-3300) to let them know if you will be attending a lunch but calling is not necessary…just show up.

Alumni, family, friends, USNA parents, and others with an interest in the Naval Academy are welcome to join the Chapter at all Chapter functions. Call (315-663-7490) or e-mail Bob Fegan to let us know if you plan to attend a function.

Future Chapter activities will be addressed by email as they are planned.

The Chapter has instituted the payment of a Life Membership Fee as an option to Annual Dues. As the information was provided through the USNA Alumni Association, there a quite a few Alumni in the CNY area who may not have received the information so it is again being provided herewith. With the new year, annual dues of $20 are now being accepted.

The Central New York Chapter leadership discussed offering Life Membership and with inputs from a few Alumni, the following table shows what was decided: Year

Chapter function or by mailing a check payable to “CNY Chapter of USNA Alumni” to Bob Fegan, 1570 US Route 20, Cazenovia, NY 13035-9202. Please provide a note to indicate your USNA AA status (Life Member, Annual or Not a member) and your email address to ensure that the Chapter’s database is complete and up-to-date.

Metro New York Chapter (NAANY)

Pres: Chris Whitley ’08 e: chris.d.whitley@gmail.com

HotLine: 1-800-234-USNA (8732)

Website: http://www.NAANY.org

BGO Area Coordinator: Gardner Jackson e: ghjackson86@gmail.com

Western New York Chapter

Pres: Dan Sullivan ’95 p: 585-410-1941; e: daniel.sullivan@savox.com

Vice Pres: Pete Owen ’86 p: 949-701-2733; e: pfowen0302@gmail.com

Website: http://westernny.usnachapters.net/

BGO Area Coordinator: Doug Peters ’73 e: douglastpeters@gmail.com

If 40% of the Alumni in the Central New York area opt for Life Membership and with over $740 currently in the Chapter’s non-profit checking account with M&T, the Chapter would have over $10,000 which is more than enough to support the Chapter’s financial commitments through 2030.

Alumni who have paid Dues for the Chapter year 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024 and for subsequent years may apply those Dues to their Life Membership Fee. Also those Alumni who have made Donations to the Chapter may apply all or part of the Donation to their Life Membership Fee. Each Alumni to whom the above applies should contact Bob Fegan (bobfegan64@gmail.com) (315-663-7490) and let him know what to do or to check what your dues status may be.

For those Alumni who choose not to pay the Life Membership Fee, the annual Chapter membership fee of $20 will be continued.

Payment of dues (Life Membership or Annual) can be made in cash or check at a

North Carolina

BGO Area Coordinator: Col Kevin Hart ’75, USMC (Ret.) p: 847-910-4502; e: kevinphart1@gmail.com

Cape Fear Chapter

Pres: Ray Decker ’72

p: 703-939-0202; e: dax24@icloud.com

Vice Pres: Paul Normand ’74 e: paulnormand@mac.com

Sec’y: Steve Yandle ’75 e: sryusna75@gmail.com

Treas: Rick Haley '72

e: capefeartreasurer@outlook.com

Website: myUSNA.com/topics/9490

With spirits high, the Cape Fear Chapter rallied at Bill’s Brewing Company in Wilmington for the Army-Navy Game watch party. Sadly, the tide was out, and Navy ran aground again. Present for the game: Alan Frelich ‘61, Alan Smith ’64, Tracy and Bob Lasseter ’65, Dave Scheu ’67, Jane and Michael Brown ’70, Paul Smith ’71, Muffy Boylan and Ray Decker

’72, Gregg Hamelin ’72, Michelle and Rick Haley ’72, Hugh McWilliams ’72, Tom Wolfe ’72, Gail and Paul Normand ’74, Susan and Bart Whitman ’74, Steve Yandle ’75, Lynn and Gary Beaver ’77, Steve Stuck ’88, Ann and Chuck Berger ‘90, Misty and Jim Slaight ’93, Anne Leanos ’98, Alex Leanos ’99, and Lisa Purdom, mom of Billy ’17. Guests included parents Donna and Paul Tustin, Kathy and RADM Ron Henderson, USN (Ret.) Harvard ’76. The Cape Fear Chapter tried to step off smartly with its 9 Jan 24 meeting, but extreme weather negated the best plans. Updates by our guest speakers from the Raleigh Chapter, Gray Tompson ’07 (President SSN777 Club) and Chris Perrien ’74 (Lead for the proposed NC Submarine Museum) will be rescheduled for a later date.

Chapter logo

On 13 Feb, the Chapter held its annual business meeting with a review of all Chapter activities. Several changes to our by-laws and policies were approved as well as a Chapter logo. With current Chapter membership hovering around 75 members, Paul Normand ’74, VP, will be leading the effort to add 25 more alum to the rolls over the next two years. Based on his past successful effort, Paul will undoubtedly surpass the 100-member stretch goal! Our secretary, Steve Yandle ’75, has smoothly migrated our website to MyUSNA and continues to effectively direct all Chapter communiques. Rick Haley ’72, Treasurer, has expertly managed the Chapter’s war chest growth and expenses. Bill Caiazza ’66 and John Casey ’78 will again lead the Chapter’s Summer STEM effort. With a target

Cape Fear Chapter: Army-Navy game watch party

of awarding 2 merit-based scholarships this year, Bill and John are up to the task. Full speed ahead.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: The 5th Annual Dark Ages Dinner will be held on 09 March in the ballroom at the Cape Fear Country Club. Another great turnout is expected for a fun night of camaraderie and fellowship. Come join shipmates to “celebrate” memories of that damp wintry period after Christmas leave!

The Chapter’s 2024 Calendar of Events is posted on our website: MyUSNA.com/topics/9490. Go Navy!

Charlotte Chapter

Pres: Christopher “Nix” M. Nickels ’91 e: CHRISNIX@AOL.COM

Email: UsnaaaCharlotte@gmail.com

Facebook Page: http://facebook.com/usna-alumniassociation-charlotte-251965968210794/

Website: Charlotte.usnachapters.net

LinkedIn Group: http://linkedin.com/groups/8344487

Event Recap: 9 Dec 2023 Army vs Navy Football. Hosted 3rd Annual Army Navy watch party at Blackfinn Ameripub in Ballantyne to cheer on Navy! Chapter also collected toys for Marine Corps Toys for Tots! We filled one big box. Great time had by all and thanks to everyone who supported Toys for Tots! See pictures nearby.

Eastern North Carolina Chapter

Pres: Rob Skrotsky ’67

P.O. Box 847, New Bern, NC 28563 h: 252-514-0299; e: robert.skrotsky@1967.usna.com

Vice Pres: Rick Kunkel ’67 p: 910-347-6251; e: rkunkel@ec.rr.com

Sec’y: Tim Marvin ’59 P.O. Box 731, Kure Beach, NC 28449-0731 e: tmarvin738@charter.net

Treas: Randy Bogle ’68

4308 Periwinkle Pl., New Bern, NC 28562 p: 252-631-3109; e: rbogle1968@gmail.com

Website: http://myusna.com/topics/9508

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14196247/

December Meeting

The chapter gathered on Saturday, 9 December at the Marina on board MCAS New River. Bob Dupuis ’79, welcomed alumni, families and guests for the 2023 Army-Navy Football game, being broadcast from Gillette Field in Foxboro, Massachusetts. Bob led everybody in a moment of silence for those in harm’s way, grieving or suffering. Twenty-two members, guests and ten children enjoyed the facilities and cheered NAVY on.

At half time Bog recognized the oldest and the youngest alumni present. The oldest was Angelo Inglisa ’57, Major USMC (Ret.). The youngest was Major Josh Elliott ’10, USMC.

First Command Financial sponsored the watch party including the food and drinks available during the game and provided periodic drawings as the game proceeded.

As we all know, Navy fell behind in the first half, but gained momentum in the second half. The ending of the game on the 1 yard line of Army was deflating to all.

Rob Skrotsky, president provided the schedule for the next meeting on Thursday, 25 January 2024, in New Bern.

Although a tough finish, the group sang “Navy Blue and Gold” with the team.

January Meeting

On Thursday, 25 January 21 alumni and spouses met at Michael’s Pub and Patio in New Bern for lunch and lots of discussion. Aaron Adams ’95 reviewed the bank balance and we welcomed new member Lexi Axelrod, class of 2018.

The planned speaker and program, local author Les Pendleton had tested positive for covid, but the chapter president put together an interesting discussion focused on the class of 2024. Using projected material we looked at the class profile upon entering USNA in 2020. The demographics, scholastic averages, athletic achievements, geographical distribution, prior enlisted and nominating categories were all presented in a profile document prepared by USNA Admissions at the time. Next, the service assignment breakdown for the class as they prepare to enter the fleet was presented; 745 Navy and 267 Marine Corps assignments. This generated many comments and much discussion as 9 of the commissioning categories were not available to most (but not all) of us.

Charlotte Chapter

For future events we noted that Navy versus Air Force baseball will be in Kinston in February and the next lunch meeting will be at Camp Lejeune on Thursday, 22 February.

The meeting concluded about 1330.

Information about the chapter is posted at myUSNA.

Rob Skrotsky, president provided the schedule for the next meeting on Thursday, 25 January 2024, in New Bern.

Tim Marvin ’59 Secretary

North Carolina Triangle Chapter

Pres: CAPT Shaun McAndrew ’93 USN (Ret.)

e: shaun.mcandrew.2020@ gmail.com

Sec’y: CAPT Bill Coleman ’95 USN (Ret.)

e: billcoleman95@gmail.com

Website: www.usnatriangle.com

Ahoy from the North Carolina Triangle Chapter!

Our chapter was awarded the USNA Alumni Association Distinguished Chapter Award for the 7th consecutive year in a row! We appreciate our chapter members and invite local area alums to join. Alumni in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding areas, visit us at myUSNA Triangle Chapter for membership.

More than 100 chapter members and their families came together at the Compass Rose Brewery in North Raleigh, to watch the Army-

Navy Game. While it was a disappointing result, good company and sea stories were enjoyed by all!

Congratulations to the Navy alumni team in the annual Battle of the Boot golf tournament! Kevin Hamilton ’94 hosted the event at the Neuse Country Club on November 30th. The weather was beautiful and the course was in great shape as Navy beat the Army and Air Force alumni teams.

The Navy’s top scorers were Conrad Chen ’15, Frank Grecco ’00, Ken Clemons (Tom Clemons’s brother) and Bryan Dearolf ’03 Other Navy team participants included: Tom Clemons ’82, Eric (and wife, Sally) Benson ’71, Chris Bishop (Shaun McAndrew’s ’93 spouse), Bill Sena ’95, John Walls ’86, Steve Moran ’81 and Warren Schultz ’71

Our Chapter supports the state’s three submarines (NORTH CAROLINA, ASHEVILLE and CHARLOTTE). Chris Perrien ’74, our long-time board member in multiple roles, is now the Executive Director of the North Carolina Submarine Museum. While manning the Museum booth at a recent Submarine Symposium, Chris bumped into chapter member Captain Gary Montalvo ’97. CAPT Montalvo is a former USS NORTH CAROLINA (777) Commanding Officer and a Durham native. He’s currently assigned as ‘flag aide’ or ’executive assistant’ to Admiral Bill Houston, Director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.

Congrats Gary! I’m sure Chris had you put a good word in with ADM Houston about the Museum plans.

For more info about the North Carolina Submarine Museum, visit the website at: https://www.ncsubmuseum.org/

To view the schedule of future events, please visit MyUSNA.com (Group- North Carolina Triangle Chapter) or follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ USNAAARTP/. Linked-in: USNA Alumni Association-Triangle Chapter (USNAAA Triangle).

Piedmont Triad Chapter

Pres: Tom Cornejo ’00

e: thomas.cornejo@yahoo.com

Sec’y: Josh Fogle ’03

e: foglejw@gmail.com

North Dakota

Upper Midwest Chapter

See Minnesota

Send Shipmate input to: Nathan CW Smith ’98

e: nathancwsmith@outlook.com

Blue & Gold Area Coordinator: Mary Plumb

e: Mary.plumb@yahoo.com

CAPT Gary Montalvo and Chris Perrien ’74 at NC Submarine Museum booth

NC Triangle Chapter: Triangle Army-Navy Watch Party

NC Triangle Chapter: 2023 Battle of the Boot Participants

Ohio

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Chapter

Pres: Earle Babcock ’74 p: 513-520-7776

e: earle.babcock@1974@usna.com

Vice Pres: Gaby Blocher ’98 p: 513-316-5903; e: Gabrielle.Bolton@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Jennifer Yuchasz ’98 e: jen.yuchasz@rhinestahl.com

Chapter Sec’y and Shipmate Submissions: Jon-Michael Pollock ’10 e: jonmichaelpollock@gmail.com

Website: http://www.usnacinci.org

BGO Area Coordinator: Bryan Grubert e: bryan.grubert@gmail.com

Cleveland Chapter

Pres: CAPT Fred W. Bergman ’75, USNR (Ret.) p: 440-570-3564; e: FWayBergman@aol.com

Sec’y: John Blackburn ’82 e: joblackburn@clevelandtrack.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Doug Cabarle e: douglas.cabarle@bgo.usna.com

Columbus

Pres: Dave Goins ’84 e: dgoins84@gmail.com

Sec’y: Motisola Bowman ’95 e: bmotisola@gmail.com

Treas: Jim Waddell ’71 e: jbwaddell@columbus.rr.com

Shipmate Contact: Motisola Bowman ’95 e: bmotisola@gmail.com

Parents’ Club President: Russelle Hoslinger e: napccousna@gmail.com

Chapter email: USNAAACbus@gmail.com

Website: https://columbus_usnachapter.net/

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ 100549757152451/

Twitter: @USNAAACbus

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/12356597/

Instagram: USNAAACbus

Parents’ Club President: Eric Forrest e: Ea4rest@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Carla Dowling-Fitzpatrick e: dowlingfitzpatrick@sbcgolbal.net

The Columbus Chapter’s annual Joint Army-Navy Game Watch Party was held this year at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus. The event was attended by over 100, including Navy and Army alumni and families and museum members. A flag raising ceremony was conducted by the Columbus South High School Army JROTC which complimented the patriotic atmosphere NVMM offers. The rivalry antics were numerous and Wayne Hallenbeck ’71 excelled at performing pushups following Navy scores.

Leading up to the game, NVMM coordinated filming a spirit video for distribution to local and national media. Navy and West Point alumni gathered for a very fun, but short event.

We met for the Dark Ages Pub Night on Saturday, February 10 at 5:30pm at the Blarney Stone Tavern in Worthington. Thanks to Tom Gomia ’70 for coordinating this popular annual event.

Monthly professional networking breakfasts are held the first Thursday of each month at First Watch in Worthington Square. We now have a private room to accommodate the crowd and are expanding the program to increase networking opportunities. Look for details of the breakfast in your email or on myUSNA.com. Thanks to Justin Shineman ’91 for making these events happen.

The Chapter’s annual membership campaign is active through the end of March. Members can renew or join for the first time by following directions in the email distributed, or log onto the Columbus Chapter page at myUSNA.com to submit dues. Increasing paid membership is a priority for the Chapter this year. Our ability to support USNA and our members is enhanced by increased membership. Please contact any officer with questions regarding Chapter membership and how dues are utilized. If you are not already a dues paying member, please consider joining us.

There’s a new president in town! Welcome to VADM Ted Carter ’81 and Lynda as he began his tenure as the 17th president of The Ohio State University on January 1, 2024. Go Navy! Go Buckeyes!”

Toledo Chapter

Pres: CDR Meghan Michael ’97, USN (Ret.)

e: meghanmichael@me.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Gregory Zerr

e: gtzerr@gmail.com

Oklahoma

BGO Area Coordinator: Mike Whaley

e: mwhaley@ossaa.com

Oklahoma City Chapter

Acting Pres: Brandon Merritt ’06

Tulsa Chapter

Pres: Rocky Goins ’84

e: rockygoins@hotmail.com

Vice Pres: Patrick Hamilton ’87

e: patrickhami@gmail.com

Sec’y and Treas: Kasey (Cregge)

Carradini ’84

e: kcarradini@hotmail.com

Website: http://tulsa.usnachapters.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USNA-Alumni-TulsaChapter-2202431113307009

The Tulsa Chapter joined the West Point Alumni at Fassler Hall for German sausages to watch the Army Navy Game. Unfortunately, the game did not go in Navy’s way. Steven Boyles ’89 came with his newlywed, Christina, to her inaugural Army/Navy Game. We congratulate the newlyweds and look forward to seeing them on the victor’s side next year.

Columbus Chapter: Spirit video filming at National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Columbus Chapter: Wayne Hallenbeck ‘71 pounds out the pushups after a Navy score

CHAPTER NEWS

We regret to report the loss of our beloved Craig LaGrone ’67 who passed away. We will always miss his enthusiasm. He is survived by his lovely wife, Ellen, who will always be welcomed at our future events.

Tulsa Chapter New Year luncheon

Per tradition, we held a New Year Luncheon at Ricardo’s Mexican Restaurant. Attendees:

Front Row: Col Mike Meason ‘97; Second Row: Patrick Hamilton ‘86 and Midshipman Stelios

Boyaci ‘25; Third Row: Alyssa Farrell ‘99 and Rocky Goins ‘84; Forth Row: Kasey ‘84 and George Carradini ‘84

Naturally, our meal ended with a hot debate of which class has the last Plebe Year. Everyone left thinking they won. Go Navy!

Rocky Goins ’84 Chair of the U.S.S. OKLAHOMA Commissioning President of U.S. Naval Academy Alumni, Tulsa Chapter

Oregon

Oregon and Southwest Washington Chapter

Pres: CDR John Adams ’69, USNR (Ret.)

e: john.adams@1969.usna.com

Vice Pres: CDR Mike Carmichael ’69, USNR (Ret.)

e: mikec@1969.usna.com

Treas: CDR Ted Scypinski ’90, USNR (Ret.)

e: ted.scypinski@flir.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Gillian Richards

e: jill@teamrichards.net

Website: oregon.usnachapters.net

As always December was a very busy month for the chapter.

First was the Army Navy game, watched as we always have with our West Point brethren at Big Als in Beaverton. Although not the outcome we were planning on, the gathering was fun. Present were Mike Carmichael 69, Doug Ballard ’74, Don Haslett ’66 and guests Jeff Hutchings and his son Hayleth, Tim Myers ’64, Doug Bomarito ’68 and his guests Dave Rusnak and son Nils, Scott Fitzpatrick ’80, Tex Harkins ’67 and wife Cecily, Glen Weeks ’65, Todd Washburn ’93 and his son Boone Washburn ‘28, Jack Kohl ’65

and his wife Joan, Ed Hepp and his wife Fran, Seth Chy ’10, Frank Swientec ’66, Brian Gilday ’91 and his wife Tracy, Tim Myers ’64 and his wife Mary, Ted Scypinski ’90, Glenn Rosen ’85 and his wife Lula, Janette Sandberg ’96, Rich Killian ’86 and guest Sherri Nexel and David Lind ’72.

Four days later we had our monthly luncheon at the Old Spaghetti Factory. Although this luncheon has always been a celebration of the Greatest Generation, we were without any of that generation, most of which have passed on. We did set up and honor the POW/MIA table. Present were Doug Ballard ’74, and his grandson Chase Odell, Mike Carmichael ’69, Scott Fitzpatrick ’80, Jack Kohl ’65, Buch Bewick ’62, Mark Cooksey ’71, Walt Higgins ’66, Tim Myers ’64 Doug Bomarito ’68 and Terry Connel USMA ’58.

We ended 2023 with the resurgence of the All-Academy Ball, hosted by the West Point Parents Club of Oregon/SW Washington and held at the Tualitin Country Club. The Ball was orchestrated by Jeanean Douglass, mother of a USNA Graduate, a USAFA Graduate and a West Point Cadet. The Ball was attended by Mike Carmichael ‘69 and his wife Suzie, Doug Ballard ‘74 and his wife Anne, Natalie Jack ‘27 and her family and Danial Olson ’26 and his family. This was the first Ball since the Pandemic. Mike and Alice Quesenberry, president of the Oregon West Point Alumni Association presented the Fallen Comrade Tribute.

Our January Luncheon featured Pete Young ’67 giving a presentation on WWII shipbuilding in the Portland area. Portland shipbuilding built most of the carriers built in WWII. Present were Mike Carmichael ’69, Jake McMichael ’58 and his guest Army veteran Ed Wallace, Glen Weeks ’65, Doug Ballard ’74, Tex Harkins ’67, Ky Nguyen parent, Terry Connell ’58 USMA, Jack Kohl ’64, Jim Kratochavil ’71, Ed Hepp ’67, Pete Young ’67, George Schult ’72, Doug Bomarito ’68, Bruce Bewick ’62, and Tim Myers ’64.

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia Chapter

Pres: Rob Bender ’73

p: 267-625-3459; e: rbender@travismanion.com

Website: http://philadelphia.usnachapters.net

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Tim Farrell ’76, USN (Ret.) e: tim.farrell@1976.usna.com

Pittsburgh Chapter

Pres: Conor McKenzie ’06

e: cmckenzie@janney.com

Website: Pittsburgh.usnachapters.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/usnaaa pittsburgh/

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT David Gates ’77, USN (Ret.) p: 724-632-6621; e: LJreese357@aol.com

Susquehanna Valley Chapter

Pres: Tim Farrell ’76

e: im.farrell@1976.usna.com

VP: Rob Gundlach ’84

e: rjgundlach@msn.com

Treas: Jim Nolan ’70

e: jimnolan8470@gmail.com

Website: http://www.usnasvc.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Matt Chabal ’77

e: chabal@1977.usna.com

On hand enjoying the game, camaraderie and good food and drink at our Army-Navy watch party at Lancaster Brewing Company Harrisburg were Bill Dornsife ’66, daughter and son-inlaw and USMA ’66 friend, Chuck Hofffman; Bill Boniface ’72 and wife Susan; Bill Etsweiler ’75 and wife Lisa; Lee Erdman ’76 and wife Karen; Dave Kern ’80 and wife Teresa and a nephew; Scott Sutherland ’81 and wife Kim and their guests; Robert Ryan ’84 and wife Tracy; Matt O’Brien ’94 and wife Rosemary; Rich Olszewski ’96 and wife Patti, son Will, and daughters

Cecelia and Louise; and Parents Club members

Kendra and Jim Pfeifer, Leanne Hains and daughter Olivia; and John and Valerie Breuninger.

January monthly gathering at Mad Chef Craft Brewing with (L to R) Tim Farrell ’76 and Rob Ryan ’84 Beat Army!

Tim Farrell ’76 Commander, United States Navy, Retired President, Susquehanna Valley Chapter United States Naval Academy Alumni Association

Recreational Vehicle

American Chapter

Pres: Tom Wolfe ’70 e: tsrjw71@gmail.com

Treas: Dale Gange ’70

14518 Black Bear Rd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418

Chapter Sec’y: Don Baldwin ’74 e: donb682@gmail.com

Shipmate Correspondent: Jennifer Stone (wife of Michael Weiner ’87) p: 202-909-5676; e: jastone0330@gmail.com

Website: www.rv.usnachapters.net

Facebook: USNA RV CHAPTER

The dust of Dodge City, Kansas, settled as the thundering herd of US Naval Academy RV Chapter Alumni with their spouses descended upon the historic town from June 6 to 11, 2023. The gathering, hosted at the Dodge City KOA campground, brought together 15 attendees in 9 RVs for an unforgettable Chapter event, showcasing the camaraderie that binds Naval Academy graduates. Attendees included: Rose and Tom Wolfe ’70 (firsties) Gail and John Schultz ’59, Dave Endicott ’72, Jose Diaz ‘74 (this was his first Chapter event), Susan and Don Baldwin ’74, Gail and David Penman ’75, Maddie and Pete Husta ’79 (this was their first Chapter event), and Darren Anderson ’83 (this was his first Chapter event). The group embraced the Wild West ambiance, creating memories that will undoubtedly be shared for years to come.

The itinerary was a perfect blend of organized group activities and free time, allowing participants to immerse themselves in Dodge City’s rich history and explore nearby cultural and frontier points of interest. Firstie Rose Wolfe, demonstrated her culinary prowess by preparing an authentic cowboy Chuckwagon dinner that no doubt left everyone with full bellies.

The chapter event featured a dedicated Ranger-led group tour of the nearby Fort Larned National Historic Site. What was expected to be a 30-minute tour turned into a captivating two-hour experience, with enthusiastic interaction and discussions between the Ranger guide and the engaged alumni.

One of the highlights was a dinner show featuring “Chicago” at a theater venue within the historically restored former Santa Fe RR depot. The evenings also included informal “campfire time,” that provided a laid-back atmosphere for participants to connect with each other.

Attendees also explored the Boot Hill historical museum, where life-size models of Dodge City’s historic buildings brought the past to life. The museum’s collection, including artifacts and a section of the infamous Boot Hill Cemetery, captivated the group, while two gunfight reenactments added an extra layer of excitement.

The Historic Dodge City Trolley Tour and self-guided Walking Tour, along with visits to the Santa Fe Trail and other Southwest Kansas Day Trips, ensured that participants had ample opportunities to soak in the region’s unique charm.

However, the real magic happened when an unexpected reunion unfolded. Tom Wolfe, the event Trail Boss, discovered that Rich VanOrsdale ’78, was camping nearby. Inviting him and his wife to the firstie dinner, the attendees were in for a surprise. Rich and Pete Husta ’79, recognized each other as high school classmates who hadn’t seen each other since their graduation in 1974. The chance encounter resulted in shared reminiscences, incredible stories, and, most importantly, Rich and his wife joining the chapter.

As the dust settled once again, the Dodge City chapter event proved that the bonds formed at the US Naval Academy transcend

Susquehanna Valley Chapter: Army-Navy Watch Party

RV Chapter: Dodge city, Kansas KOA

time and distance. The Wild West adventure will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of the alumni who gathered to celebrate their shared history and forge new connections in the heart of Kansas.

Rhode Island

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Stuart Craig ’86, USN (Ret.) e: stuart.craig@bgo.usna.com

Rhode Island Chapter

Pres: Mike O’Sullivan ’73 p: 401-742-7091; e: michael.osullivan1973@gmail.com

Sec’y: Col Paul Muller ’88, USMC (Ret.) p: 401-248-3405; e: usmctanker@cox.net

South Carolina

BGO Area Coordinator: Ryan Blacklock e: ryan.blacklock@2004.usna.com

Central Savannah River Area

(Aiken, SC; Augusta, GA; and surrounding areas)

Pres: LtCol Dave Smith ’73, USMC (Ret.) e: dsmith708@atlanticbb.net

Sec'y: Brian Goldschmidt ’94 e: goldschmidtbp@gmail.com

Website: http://csra.usnachapters.com

Charleston Chapter

Pres: CDR Rick Stein ’82, USNR (Ret.) 784 Preservation Pl., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 p: 843-856-6591; w: 843-557-7021 e: USNA_AA_Charleston@Comcast.net

December Meeting

On Monday, December 18, The Charleston Chapter held its Monthly Meeting. Our Speaker was CDR Jason Plumley, USCG (USCGA ’03), XO, Coast Guard Base Charleston. In Attendance were: Max Hill ’51; Fuzzy Knight ’53; Jim Flatley ’56; Curt Holcomb ’61; John Common ’64; Ray Setser ’65; Alan Burkhart ’67; Bernie Magdelain ’67; Jim Welsch 67; Ray Donahue ’74; David Oyster ’74; Joe Delpino ’75; Kirk Donald ’75; Bill Konrad ’75; Dave Shimp ’76; Denny Simon ’77; Rick Stein ’82; Brad Murphy ’83; Perry Ramicone ’83; Greg Shore ’84; and Kai Yeh ’90.

January Meeting

On Monday, 15 January, The Charleston Chapter held its Monthly Meeting. Our Speaker was Thomas Mundell, President and CEO of the Medal of Honor Leadership and Education Center. He shared some interesting statistics: As of 1-15-2024, There have been 3017 Recipients on the Medal Of Honor. 65 are Living: 1 from Korea Conflict; 48 from Viet Nam War, and 16 from the War on Terror. In Attendance were: Max Hill ’51; Fuzzy Knight ’53; Curt Holcomb ’61; Ray Setser ’65; Bernie Magdelain ’67; Jim Welsch ’67; Mike Malone ’68; Steve Weise ’72; Al Olsen ’72; David Oyster ’74; Dave Fisher ’76; Dave Shimp ’76;

’83;

Brad Murphy ’83; and Billy Hall ’05. The pictures below are from Fuzzy Knight’s ’53 award of the Order of the Palmetto; the State of South Carolina’s Highest Civilian Award.

The Charleston Chapter meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 12 Noon in Mount Pleasant. No reservation required The Charleston Chapter meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 12 Noon in Mount Pleasant. No reservation required.

Low Country Chapter

Pres: Tom Cavanaugh ’69 p: 516-220-9896; e: tomcusna69@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Dave Igyarto ’74 e: igyartodp@icloud.com

Sec’y: Tim Johnson ’02 e: tim.w.Johnson@outlook.com

Treas: John Scanlan ’83 e: ping1@hargray.com

Palmetto Chapter

Pres: Jerry Pilewski ’97 e: palmettousna@usna.com

Vice Pres: Brian Treanor ’89 e: brian_treanor@hotmail.com

Sec’y: Suzanne Hopper (husband, John Hopper ’95 and son, Selik Hopper ’23) e: hoppermomx6@gmail.com

South Carolina Midlands Chapter

Pres: Craig Augenstein ’87

4847 Furman Ave., Columbia, SC 29206 p: 803-309-3060; e: Craigaugenstein@gmail.com

Sec’y: Chuck Tebrich ’66 e: chuckteb@gmail.com

Website: www.usnasc.org

South Dakota

Send Shipmate input to: Nathan CW Smith ’98 e: nathancwsmith@outlook.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Sharon Holt ’00 p: 605-390-3430; e: holtsharonl@aol.com

Spain

BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Turbeville ’01 e: bgoarea501coordinator@gmail.com

Rota Chapter

Pres: Michael Carsley ’88 e: michael.carsley@eu.navy.mil

Vice Pres: Ryan Eilerman ’15

Treas: Cassidy Masey ’06 e: cassidy.a.massey@gmail.com

Sec’y: Dustin Cunningham ’06

Tennessee

Chattanooga Chapter

Pres: Casey Turner ’01 6408 Forest Park Dr., Signal Mountain, TN, 37377 p: 423-355-7771; e: lcaseyturner@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard Cataldi ’69, USN (Ret.) p: 865-966-4677; e: cdrcataldi@tds.net

Knoxville-Oak Ridge Chapter

Pres: Kristen Daniel ’02 e: kristenandwesley@gmail.com.

Sec’y-Treas: Jim Ward '85 e: jim.ward@1985.usna.com

Website: http://k-or.usnachapters.net/

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard Cataldi ’69, USN (Ret.) p: 865-966-4677; e: cdrcataldi@tds.net

The Knoxville-Oak Ridge Chapter hosted the annual Army-Navy Football Watch Party at the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville. Navy had 14 alumni; Army had 5. The combination of alumni, spouses, and guests brought the total attendees to 45. Everyone brought a snack tray to share and their favorite beverage so there were ample grazing opportunities. Thanks to Rich Cataldi for securing the venue and overseeing the event.

USNA Alumni Attendees: Mike Brady ’96, Rich Cataldi ’69, Steve Crowe ’77, Dan Elins ’75, Rudy Escher ’78, Ernie Gonzales ’81, Tim Hallihan ’72, Buddy Holt ’73, Bob Milhiser ’64, Ryan Miller ’07, John Sharp ’77, Fred Stuvek ’74, Craig Toney ’00 and Andy Wehrle ’72

Our next major event will be hosting a luncheon for Class of 2024 rowers and coaches of the USNA Men’s Lightweight Rowing team during the team’s Spring training in Oak Ridge in March 2024.

On 8 June we will host a Welcome Aboard Picnic for the incoming Class of 2028 from East Tennessee.

If any alumni relocate to or visit East Tennessee, please join our monthly

Denny Simon ’77; Rick Stein ’82; OP Honors

(Left to Right): Dave Shimp ’76, Alan Burkhart ’67, Jim Lyons ’74, Ray Setser ’65, Bernie Magdelain ’67, and Fuzzy Knight ’53.

Memphis Chapter

Pres: Henry W. Papa Jr. ’86 p: 907-244-7492; e: hankpapa@aol.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Drew Wyrick e: wyrick03@gmail.com

Nashville Chapter

Pres: CDR John F. Ohlinger ’69, USN (Ret.) 880 Lakemont Dr., Nashville, TN 37220-2124 h: 615-370-1441; w: 615-594-7628 e: john.ohlinger@usna.1969.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Thomas Forsythe ’79 e: tom_forsythe@kyzen.com

Texas

Alamo Chapter

Pres: CAPT Ron A. Sandoval ’81, USN 18010 Keystone Blf., San Antonio, TX 78258-3436

Please send Shipmate Submissions and all correspondences to: Sec’y: Dave Driskell ’63 P.O. Box 461564, San Antonio, TX 78246-1564 e: info@alamogoats.org

Website: http://www.alamo.usnachapters.com

Facebook: Alamo Chapter NAAA

BGO Area Coordinator: Eric Montgomery ’04 p: 410-507-2832; e: eric.montgomery@2004.usna.com

The chapter attempted to sponsor an Army Navy game viewing party, but we were thwarted at the last minute by a dispute between CBS and Direct TV. It turns out that most of our familiar sports bars use Direct TV for their feed. Hence the game was not available for any reasonable Chapter-sponsored gathering. After we abandoned our efforts, many private gatherings popped up and shared pictures.

I am including the pictures they shared and thank them for their efforts. It is a shame that we lost the game, but our spirit remains high. We are currently working on a meeting at USAA in February, but you will not be reading this until late March or early April. I hope everyone checks their emails regularly.

The various watch parties that sent pictures are noted:

Chapline Distilleries sponsored by Michael (’80) and Carmine (‘81) Chapline 28 Songs in Boerne hosted by owner Arthur Humphries, a Navy veteran. It was a joint event with WooPoos in attendance as well.

Also, one of our current applicants hosted his entire AJROTC cohort at his house.

Dave Driskell ’63 Secretary

Austin Chapter

Pres: Brad Holbrook ’06

p: 410-718-8839; e: bradley.holbrook@gmail.com

Treas: Kevin Windbigler ’86 p: 512-923-5010; e: hans2886@austin.rr.com

Shipmate Contact: CDR Don McAlister ’63, USNR (Ret.) p: 512-365-7068; e: don.mcalister@austin.rr.com

Website: Austin.usnachapters.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Dave Driskell ’63 p: 210-275-4011; e: daved@frand.com

North Texas Chapter

Director at Large: Daryl Smith ’88

Pres: Jamey Cummings ’93 e: pres@usnaaa-ntx.com

Vice Pres of Programs: Carrie Murdock ’99

Vice Pres of Membership: Ty Rose ’06

Treasurer: Greg Colandrea ’90

Sec’y: Frankie Delgado ’95 e: secy@usnaaa-ntx.com

Website: www.usnaaa-ntx.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Tom Eschenbrenner p: 972 740 4060; e: eschenbrenner@gmail.com

Happy Spring from North Texas! We are still waiting on the sage to bloom. At the end of 2023, the chapter President, Jamey Cummings ’93, sent out a letter to all the North Texas membership rolling up what was the year and providing insights on some upcoming events in 2024. Below is a brief rollup of major 2024 milestones to look forward to: As of 31 March, the chapter will complete its migration to the myUSNA platform for all activities and information flow, in April – the Blue Angels will be at JRB Fort Worth culminating Navy week in North Texas, also in April, the Chapter is working to have a special speaker at the luncheon affiliated with the Navy SEAL foundation (check the chapter events), June – in conjunction with the Parent’s Club, we’ll welcome the class of ’28 at a lunch. During the summer we will be planning some family events and then as usual, the fall will be filled with Navy football watching parties! In November we’ll participate

luncheon at Famous Dave’s BBQ in Knoxville on the first Wednesday of each month except March, when we meet on 13 March in Oak Ridge.

Laura Koerner ’97, with Mid’n Barron Cohoon ’27’s parents at 28 Songs watch party.

Attendees at the 28 Songs watch party

Knoxville Chapter: Army-Navy Watch Party 2023 in Knoxville

Alamo Chapter: L to R: Derek Fuller ’89, Mike Chapline ’80, Jim Kiehle ’62, Sarah Kovel ’82, Carmine Chapline ’81, and Stephanie (’08) and Jake (09) Rivera at Chapline Distillery’s game watch party.

in the Service Academy flag football tournament and culminate the year with the ArmyNavy watch party and the 54th annual Blue Chip dinner.

In December, the chapter did host the 53rd annual Blue Chip dinner with Commandant of Midshipman, Col J.P. McDonough ’94, USMC served as the featured speaker. Also in attendance were CMC Karim Cole, USN, Alumni Assoc. CEO Jeff Webb ’95, Dean of Admissions Latta ’78, 23 Midshipmen, North Texas Blue & Gold officers and 52 candidates and their families. As always, the Parents’ Club played a critical role in supporting this marquee event.

In January, the chapter luncheon featured Distinguished Graduate, ADM Pat Walsh ’77 (Ret.), former Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet and current President of Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep. ADM Walsh engaged the audience with his insights into the geopolitical challenges of the Pacific theater and ended with the inspirational story of Cristo Rey’s noble mission supporting the youth of Dallas. Please do not forget to sign up for the North Texas Chapter in your groups in the myUSNA platform. Come join us at the next luncheon!

Texas Gulf Coast Chapter

Pres: Dan Hanley ‘10

e: dhanley@2010.usna.com

Vice Pres: Luke Schamel ‘10

e: luke.schamel@2010.usna.com

Treas: Rich Bulger ‘69

e: rlbulger69@gmail.com

Sec’y: John Augusto ‘02

e: john.a.augusto@gmail.com

Website: http://txgulfcoast.myusna.com/ Facebook: @USNAAATXGC

Email: txgulfcoast.usnachapters@gmail.com

BGO Area Coodinator: Don Link e: cdr.dlink@gmail.com

December 01 The Houston area Army-Navy golf scramble was held, and Navy came out victorious in the 2023 Houston Area Army Navy Golf Tournament. 12 folks played on the Houston Navy team: Steve O’Connor, Marc Lawson, Chris Black, Drew Sims, Adam Dorminey, David Hills, Rick Bush, Dick Richards, Royce Engler, Jim Modeland, Ryan Dupnick, and Laura Sims.

December 09 The official Houston Army-Navy Watch Party was hosted at the Karbach Biergarten. The TX GC Chapter partnered with the West Point Society of Greater Houston, Lone Star Sports Entertainment (part of the Houston Texans), the nonprofit veteran service organization, NextOp. Proceeds from the event benefitted NextOp, USNAAA TX Gulf Coast Chapter Foundation, and the West Point Society of Greater Houston Foundation.

NextOp is a nonprofit veteran service organization headquartered in Houston that provides free, individualized employment assistance to middle enlisted (ranks E3 - E7) transitioning service members and veterans. They have helped over 3,700 veterans attain high-quality careers since 2015.

January 03 The Texas Gulf Coast Chapter awards the Smith-McCool Sword the the 1/c Midshipman from the Chapter area with the highest order-of-merit. The award is named after astronaut Michael Smith ’67, who was lost in the CHALLENGER disaster, and astronaut William McCool ’83, who was lost in the COLUMBIA disaster. We are pleased to honor MIDN 1/C James Pulliam ’25 of Jasper, TX as this year’s recipient. As guest speaker and to award the sword to the mid was current astronaut, Lt Col Nicole Mann ’99. The meeting was attended by 54 chapter members and guests.

TxGC will continue to host suburb suburb lunches or happy hours. If you have restaurant suggestions (12 – 20+ attendees with “separate checks”) please contact us at TxGulfCoast. usnachapters@gmail.com.

Member News:

Derek Moorehead ’18 recently completed his time onboard the USS ILLINOIS (SSN-786) and moved to Houston, where he started working with Derrick Corporation as a Technical Service Engineer.

Salam Kako ’15 recently moved to Houston following separating from active duty and started work as an Associate Sales Representative with Abbott in their medical technology division, specifically cardiac rhythm devices.

Aaron Ingram ’12 started as a pilot with the Texas A&M University system. He is continuing as Director of Operation with PreVeteran, a company focused on optimizing transition for military members and their spouses.

James Long ’10 was recently promoted to Partner at Kirkland & Ellis LLP, a global law firm.

Zach Williams ’96 has joined American Bureau of Shipping as a Program Manager for Government Programs. ABS is a global leader in providing classification services for marine and offshore assets.

Luncheon: CAPT Dan Acton ’77, ADM Walsh ’77 (Ret.), Dan Murphy ’75

Blue Chip: Dean Latta ’78 and Commandant of Midshipman, Col McDonough ’94, USMC deliver letters of acceptance

North Texas Chapter: Blue Chip Dinner - Midshipmen close out the Blue Chip with the singing of Navy Blue and Gold

Future Events

Luncheons are tentatively set for the first Friday of each month. These luncheons are expected to be at El Tiempo Cantina, 2814 Navigation Blvd, Houston 77003.

Suburb no-host lunches are typically each quarter in Clear Lake at El Tiempo CantinaWebster, with periodic events planned in other surrounding suburbs.

Follow TxGC on MyUSNA, Texas Gulf Coast Chapter (Group). Please submit any questions or suggestions related to TxGC, as well as i nquiries about volunteer opportunities within the Chapter to txgulfcoast.usnachapters@ gmail.com.

DO YOU LIVE IN HOUSTON? We have over 1,000 members & growing volunteer opportunities available in different locations throughout the year! Minimal commitment required to actively participate and enjoy the camaraderie of one of the largest Alumni Association Chapters! Email: txgulfcoast.usnachapters@ gmail.com or current President (DHanley@ 2010.usna.com) to learn about our latest events and visit with us!

United Kingdom

BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Turbeville ’01 e: bgoarea501coordinator@gmail.com

United Kingdom Chapter

Pres: Tim Fox ’97

e: timfox97@hotmail.com

Vice Pres: Cody Nissen ’11 e: cnissen.mba2018@london.edu

Sec’y: Lisa Aszklar (Wife, Henry ’81) e: lisa.aszklar@gmail.com

Board of Directors: Tony Cox ’89 e: tony.cox@gboutdoorfires.co.uk

Chris Robinson ’98 e: naples98@gmail.com

Greetings from London, where Spring is supposedly just around the corner (according to the meteorologists), and Navy spirit has helped carry us through the long winter!

Navy may not have sung last on 9 December, but the alumni and friends who gathered for the UK Chapter’s annual Army-Navy Game Watch tried their hardest to carry the Mids to a win over the Black Knights.

About seventy-five fans met at the Leake Street (Waterloo Station) location of Passyunk Avenue — home of all things Navy on this side of The Pond — and cheered for their respective teams. The split was roughly two-to-one split for Navy among the attendees, but the camaraderie and mutual respect between the alumni of these two great service academies really reinforced the fact that we share common values.

We were pleased to meet several recent USNA alumni who are studying under postbaccalaureate scholarships at Oxford, and these younger folks really kept the party hopping!

L to R Oxford University students and USNA alumni Jeremy Stevens ’23, Caroline Turner ’22, Logan Williams ’21, James Potticary ’22, and Lian Dunlevy ’23. But the younger alumni certainly weren’t the only attendees who understood the meaning of the terms demerit, come-around, and rack burn. Brian Cully ’17, Jason Stone ’04, Brandon Smith ’02, Rob Niemeyer ’02 and Mike Widmann ’00 together gave the Oxford contingent a run for their Navy spirit!

L to R Brandon Smith ’02, Rob Niemeyer ’02, Jason Stone ’04 and Brian Cully ’17.

Chapter President Tim Fox ’97 was pleasantly surprised to see his old Navy lacrosse teammate, Mike Widmann ’00, who is on active duty and posted in the UK. Except for the May 2022 event with the Secretary of Defense Carlos Del Toro, Tim and Mike hadn’t crossed paths since 1997!

L to R Mike Widmann ’00, Mila Widmann, and Tim Fox ‘97

Looking ahead, Tim’s connection with the Royal British Legion has enabled him to schedule an exciting one-of-a-kind, over-18 visit to the Tower of London and the on-site Beefeaters’ pub on 24 August. Our group will witness the Ceremony of the Keys as the Tower is secured for the night, then head back to the pub for a pint or two before last call. Contact Tim at timfox97@hotmail.com to reserve your spot. Participation is limited to 20, so early notice is appreciated.

Finally, BZ to two Navy rugby players who have each won a scholarship to study in the UK after graduation. Abigail (AJ) Ward is one of only 32 students nationwide to receive a Rhodes Scholarship this year for study at Oxford University following graduation in 2024, and Charlotte d’Halluin, captain of the women’s Navy rugby team, will study at both the University of Edinburgh and University College London under a Marshall Scholarship. Read more here: www.bit.ly/3S7FCNs

We hope both these outstanding scholars will find time to join us!

Until next time, GO NAVY BEAT ARMY!

Utah

Intermountain Alumni Chapter

Pres: Robert Allen ’67

e: ba@robertallen.org

Vice Pres: Ryan Merrell ’00 e: ryanmerrell@yahoo.com

Treas: Mike Hester ’69 e: mikehester46@gmail.com

Sec'y: Tabeetha Moesinger ’91 e: tabeetha@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Darrin Briggs ’03 e: Darrin.Briggs@gmail.com

Virginia

Central Virginia Chapter

Pres: Bill Murray ’83 e: whmurray34@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Ty Schieber ’87 e: ty.schieber@gmail.com

Sec’y: Ed Borger ’80 e: ed.borger@honeywell.com

Treas: Steve Hill ’74 e: swhill74@cstone.net

BGO Area Coordinator: Don Aldridge e: n774pk@gmail.com

CHAPTER NEWS

Hampton Roads Chapter

Pres: Renee Reedy ’81

e: reedy81@usnahampton roads.com

h: 757-312-8969; w: 757-328-0030

Website: www.usnahamptonroads.com

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/USNAHamptonRoads

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR David Lannetti ’81, USN (Ret.) p: 757-423-8602; e: dlannetti81@gmail.com

The 2023 Army-Navy game has passed into history; but despite the disappointment associated with the outcome in Foxborough, MA, in Hampton Roads it can unequivocally be said, “We may have lost the game, but we won the party!” On 9 December more than 300 Navy fans and alumni from all classes poured into Shore Break Pizza and Taphouse in Virginia Beach for our annual Army-Navy party where they enjoyed some terrific camaraderie and the copious level of food and drink expected at this hugely popular event! A rousing BZ goes out to Event Coordinator Al Ponessa ’68 and his planning team that included Dick Enderly ’71, Ken Marks ’71, Dave Duffie` ’75, Steve Nimitz ’76, Chapter President Renee Reedy ’81, Ted Digges ’85, Vince Bowhers ’85, and Rob Aeschbach ’90! In addition to the watch party, a Silent Auction featuring over 90 donated prizes raised nearly $5000, most of which the Chapter is proud to be donating to our Alma Mater for the Naval Academy Summer Seminar, the Summer STEM program, and the International Program. Attendees also generously supported Toys for Tots monetarily and with donated new toys; and plans are already underway for an equally spirited event this December!

CHAPTER SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES

Send

2024

Our monthly Networking Breakfast continued to include a variety of interesting speakers. To kick off 2024 the January speaker was John Cordle ’84, principal advisor to Commander, Naval Surface Force for Human Factors/ Human Systems, and Integration matters, including sleep and the circadian rhythm, inclusion, leadership, and mentorship. John highlighted some of the Navy’s new programs, policies, and initiatives intended to improve our Sailors’ sleep, mental health, and quality of service. The February speaker was Michael Provost, CEO of the Vessel Disposal & Reuse Foundation (VDRF), whose mission is to help local waterways achieve sustainable health through removal of abandoned and derelict vessels. In March we enjoyed an informative presentation from VDOT on the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel expansion project; and our 17 April speaker will be Heather McKeating, the Public Relations Director for the Norfolk Tides.

Navy Blue & Gold

While the Dark Ages have descended upon USNA, our annual Dark Ages Happy Hour at the Yard House in Virginia Beach Town Center on 25 January helped brighten the mood locally. Camaraderie, lifting spirits, and good food and drink were the orders of the day; and the same will be true for our upcoming planned monthly Happy Hours.

The new year will bring changes in Chapter leadership. In February and March, a committee headed by Mark Rupprecht ’76 accepted nominations and vetted candidates for the 2024-2026 Board of Directors; and in April the membership voted on that committee’s approved slate of officers and directors. The new Board will be seated at our Annual Meeting scheduled for 17 April.

For the latest news on future Chapter initiatives and events, as well as USNA news and updates, check out our website under the Hampton Roads Group at myUSNA.com. And don’t forget our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook pages!

Dick Enderly ’71

Quantico Area Chapter

Pres: George Williams ’87

e: bucketokinawa@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Ryan Steenberge ’10 e: ryan.steenberge@gmail.com

Treas: Ron Diefenbach ’00

e: QACUSNAAAtreasurer@yahoo.com

Sec'y: Nancy Springer ’87 e: nancy.a.springer.nancy@aol.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Jim Ripley ’74 e: james.m.ripley@gmail.com

Website: http://quantico.usnachapters.net

On 1 December, 21 Chapter members gathered at The Hampton Inn, Dumfries and on Zoom for the December installment of our ongoing Breakfast Speaker Series. This month, the Chapter hosted three guests from USNAAA & Foundation: Nancy Murray, Donnie Kennedy ’92, and Dean Capito who conveyed very important information to the Chapter. The group acquainted QAC with the roles of the Alumni Association and the Foundation, Strategic Plan 2030, and the history and status of Fluegel Alumni Center. Of note, Nancy Murray commented that USNAAA’s overarching goal is to serve and support alumni throughout all phases of our lives, helping us to thrive and reach our full potential. Also, QAC learned that Fluegel Alumni Center has 1237 plank holders representing the $10M in donations needed to support the facility’s operations and maintenance.

On 9 December QAC hosted its 7th Annual Army-Navy Football Watch Party for the students, staff & faculty of The Basic School, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Virginia. More than 100 lieutenant students and approximately 15 Chapter Members, families and friends came out to watch the game and enjoy the camaraderie in The Hawkins Room. Despite the disappointing outcome, the Chapter had a lot of fun watching the game with some of the Marine Corps’ newest officers.

Navy fans in Hampton Roads

Christine and Frank McBride ’73 at Hampton Roads Army-Navy Party

Enjoying QAC’s 7th Annual Army Navy Watch Party

Moving into the new year, 24 Chapter members gathered to hear comments from BGen Maura Hennigan, President of the Marine Corps University (MCU). The General provided a brief orientation of MCU, its mission, and a description of its courses and other educational engagements. She emphasized that MCU strives to use its educational programs to build a warfighter with highly developed critical thinking skills, crucial to victory in the Marine Corps current operational concept.

On 27 January, QAC took advantage of having The Museum of the Marine Corps in nearby Triangle, Virginia and arranged a visit to this unique repository of Marine Corps history. Joined by Hampton Roads Chapter and the Central Virginia Parents’ Club, Chapter Members and families enjoyed a morning exploring the very well-furnished Museum. The Chapter’s Navy Senior Enlisted Advisor and Museum docent, Dave Mattingly, coordinated enough fellow docents to divide the 32-person group into smaller elements for a very personal tour. The Museum staff strives for realism in the exhibits, including adjusting the temperature in exhibit rooms to simulate the “feel” of the depicted battle. Accordingly, it was a bit chilly in the Chosin Reservoir room! The QAC leadership team thanks Bob Taylor ’74 who coordinated this special event.

Area alumni are always welcome at Chapter events. Please check our calendar and Facebook page for more information.

Richmond Chapter

Pres: Michael Metzger ’89 e: michael.metzger@1989.usna.com

Sec’y: Matt Laser ’97 e: lasermatthew@gmail.com

Website: http://richmond.usnachapters.net

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR David Lannetti ’81, USN (Ret.) p: 757-423-8602; e: dlannetti81@gmail.com

Shenandoah Valley Chapter

Pres: David McLellan ’73 p: 540-722-2060; e: dcmclmd@earthlink.net

Sec’y: LCDR Grayson Redford ’63, USN (Ret.) p: 540-662-6142

BGO Area Coordinator: Jim Ripley ’74 e: james.m.ripley@gmail.com

Virginia Peninsula Chapter (formerly the Williamsburg Chapter)

Pres: Kathleen Jabs ’88

e: kjabs@aol.com; vapeninsulachapterusna@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Rick Yasky ’78

e: rickyasky@gmail.com

Sec’y: Mark Zito

e: markpaulzito@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR David Lannetti ’81, USN (Ret.) p: 757-423-8602; e: dlannetti81@gmail.com

Website: www.myusna.com

Group: Virginia Peninsula Chapter

Chapter dues are $30 a year and nametags (optional) are $12.

DUES and Contributions:

Send your checks to our treasurer: USNAAA VA Peninsula

c/o Gary Carlile 3724 Mesa River Williamsburg, VA 23188

Chapter Dues are primarily in support of Chapter events, USNA Midshipmen activities on the Peninsula (Sporting events and movement orders) and support for USNA STEM and Summer Seminar participation by VA Peninsula high school students.

October 2023 Activities

In October, our alumni community gathered at Waterman’s Museum for an engaging evening featuring Doug Sanderson, a distinguished member of our exended community. Doug, who holds the unique distinction of being the last man on the airplane during the 2009 Miracle on the Hudson, shared his firsthand account of the harrowing experience.

December 2023 Activities

Despite the heart-wrenching last-minute loss in the Army-Navy football game, our alumni came together for an unforgettable watch party at Revolution Golf and Grille-where several of us meet regularly for Navy football. Special thanks go to Georgeanne Williams for coordinating the event, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie, and turning a challenging outcome into a raging success. The shared passion for our alma mater and spirited support for the teams made this gathering a testament to the enduring bonds within our community.

Quantico Area Chapter: Visiting The National Museum of the Marine Corps

Future Activities

All Navy alumni, family, and significant others are welcome at all our events. If you aren’t on our email list, please send us a note at vapen insulausnaaa@gmail.com and we will notify you about upcoming luncheons and other events.

Service Academy BizNetwork Breakfast Meeting

On the 1st Wednesday of each month, the Service Academy BizNetwork Breakfast Meeting is held locally at Jason’s Deli either in Hampton or Chesapeake, VA; however, the meeting is specifically in a hybrid format to facilitate maximum participation. Rob Hanckel ’73 is the host of these meetings. Contact Mark Zito <markpaulzito@gmail.com> if you are interested in learning about this group or desire to attend meetings.

If you live on the Virginia Peninsula and are interested in joining our chapter, please contact Kathleen Jabs, our chapter president, to be welcomed and put on our email list. If you know of other USNA grads in the area who might be interested in joining us, please let us know and pass along their contact information. The hospitality committee will contact them and add them to our email list .

Washington

BGO Area Coordinator: Darin Perrine e: dperrine@mailbox.org

Hanford/Tri-Cities Chapter

Pres: CAPT Edward Schwier ’69, USN (Ret.)

1196 Brentwood Ave., Richland, WA 99352-8540 h: 509-627-7288; w: 509-372-0176

e: Edward_G_Ed_Schwier@rl.gov; eschwier@charter.net; egschwier@aol.com

Website: http://hanford.usnachapters.com

Puget Sound Chapter

Pres: Alan Schrader ’92

e: usnaaa.psc@gmail.com

Sec’y: George Windsor ’75

e: gbwindsor@icloud.com

Website: https://myusna.com/topics/9554

On 9 December the Chapter had a good turnout yesterday in Bremerton despite a rainy/snowy day and, of course, a less than desirable outcome. A total of 13 alumni and 8 spouses and guests attended. Alumni who attended: Alan Schrader ’92, Mike Mathews ’75, Lonnie Overson ’67, Bob Dropp ’61, Tom Zwolfer ’88, Walt Draper ’61, Mike Lefever ’76, Dean Smith ’83, Jim Stites ’88, Greg Gephardt ’87, steve Fabry ’65, Randy Curnutt ’71 and Dave Shafer ’79

(2) On 8 November - Our speaker series concluded with Bob Fishman presenting Part 5 of 5: The series was recorded and is available upon request.

Washington, DC Area

Greater Washington Chapter

Pres: Anthony Calandra ‘88 e: president@usnagwc.org

Vice Pres: Luis Martinez ’01 e: vicepresident@usnagwc.org

Sec’y: Alexis Opferman ’17 e: secretary@usnagwc.org

Treas: Chris Georgi ’96 e: treasurer@usnagwc.org

Outreach and Engagement: Heidi Lenzini ’95 e: outreach@usnagwc.org

Diversity and Inclusion: Alberto Ramos ’10 e: diversity@usnagwc.org

Trustee: Jill Rough ’96 e: trustee@usnagwc.org

Website: www.usnagwc.org

BGO Area Coordinator: Jim Ripley e: james.m.ripley@gmail.com

2024 will be an eventful year for our chapter –check out our website on MyUSNA and social media (Facebook and LinkedIn) for more information. If you cannot register for an event, check your membership status by navigating to your USNAAA profile. Please invite your classmates

Greater Washington Chapter: Alumni and friends celebrate the Army-Navy game at Valor Brew Pub/Ugly Mug

Greater Washington Chapter: Alumni and friends celebrate the Army-Navy game at Valor Brew Pub/Ugly Mug

and other alumni, family and friends to join us. We hosted our first networking event Jan. 17 at Mattie and Eddie’s (formerly Sine) close to the Pentagon, which was well attended. Thanks to Chris Georgi ’96 for organizing! Check your calendars and our social media for upcoming bike rides, led by Kate Murray ’00 and Mike Cantwell ‘87. We’re looking forward to our annual picnic May 4 at Ft. Hunt – family, friends, midshipmen and candidates are all welcome! The event is covered, so we will celebrate rain or shine. This is our second-largest event after the Army-Navy game. Finally, keep an eye out for the Annual Service Academy Golf Tournament in July, headed by Kwame Cook ’96 A percentage of the proceeds will benefit the local chapters, so bring your friends to Beat Army and Air Force! Welcome to our new members, we can’t wait to meet all of you!

CHAPTER NEWS/SHARED INTEREST GROUPS

Wisconsin

BGO Area Coordinator: Mr. Leonard Green

e: leonard.green.a@gmail.com

Wisconsin Chapter

Pres: Jeff Reagan ‘88

e: j.m.reagan84@gmail.com

p: 414-803-5947

Vice Pres: Craig Walker ‘83

e: craigwalker@wi.rr.com

p: 262-424-2637

Sec’y: Rob Grasse ‘88

e: rgrasse1@wi.rr.com

p: 262-424-9029

At Large: Chris Adams ‘75

p: 414-553-0892

Website: www.myusna.com

Wisconsin Naval Academy Parents’ Association (WISNAPA)

Presidents: Lisa & Chad Stigler

Vice-Presidents: Steve & Katie Kotansky

e: wisnapacontact@gmail.com

Website: www.myusna.com

Wisconsin Blue and Gold Officer Coordinator

BGO Area Coordinator: Mr. Mark Germano

e: Mark.Germano@bgo.usna.com

p: 847-624-5142

CELEBRATING OUR 30TH YEAR!

Join us at the Chicago SACC as we celebrate the tradition of assisting alumni to network, make career transitions and hire fellow alumni. Chicago, IL 9-10 May 2024

www.sacc-jobfair.com

SHARED INTEREST GROUPS

NAMA

Naval Academy Minority Association

Pres: RADM Julius S. Caesar ’77, USN (Ret.) e: executive-director@usnama.com

Vice Pres: LCDR Valerie Mansfield ’92, USN (Ret.) e: deputy-director@usnama.com

CoS: CDR Calvin Bumphus ’97, USN (Ret.) e: chief-of-staff@usnama.com

Treas: C.J. Willis ’75 e: treasurer@usnama.com

BGO Coordinator: Vacant e: bgo@usnama.com

Shipmate Contact: LCDR Jessica Anderson ’08, USN e: communications@usnama.com

Website: www.usnama.com

EVENTS

Upcoming Events:

SAVE-THE-DATE! The 2024 USNA Alumni Leadership Forum with the Gala highlighting AAPI achievements in the naval service will be held April 18-20, 2024 in Annapolis, MD at the Fluegel Alumni Center. Make sure you

register and join us! We are also in full swing of supporting STEM and NASS candidates.

NAMA offers many resources and is an excellent way to GIVE BACK to the institution that shaped us into the leaders we are today and in the future. Join NAMA today and get involved! We look forward to seeing what great work we can do together!

Past Events:

Many NAMA members were in attendance as USNA welcomed VADM Davids ‘89 as the first female Superintendent. Congratulations! NAMA partnered with the Naval Academy Foundation to establish the Naval Academy Minority Affairs Fund (NAMAF). Your donations support on-campus visits for students and Centers of Influence, scholarship funding for STEM and NASS, Gospel Choir travel, and Midshipman activities.

Visit usna.com/give or follow the directions on the NAMA website, https://www.usnama. com/donation-selection/ to donate today.

NESA

Naval Engineers & STEM Advocates (NESA)

Pres: Admiral John Richardson ’82, USN (Ret.)

Vice Pres: CDR Sarah Rice ’02, USN e: sarah.b.rice@gmail.com

Sec’y: CDR Renee Reedy ’81, USN (Ret.) e: reedy81@usnahamptonroads.com

Treas: LT John Rex Spivey ’13, USN e: johnrexspivey@gmail.com

Outreach & Engagement: Dr. Jill Rough ’96, CAPT USNR e: jill.rough@comcast.net

CoS: CAPT Dale Lumme ’80, USN (Ret.) e: kid.lumme@1980.usna.com

NAMA Liaison: CAPT Timi Lindsay ’92, USN (Ret.) e: timi.lindsay@gmail.com

MyUSNA

MyUSNA is where your chapter can grow and where your events can get to the next level. Scan the QR code to amplify your USNA alumni experience as we strengthen bonds and form new ones.

NAMA Shared Interest Group

SHARED INTEREST GROUPS

Run to Honor

Pres: Steve Swift ’87

p: 813-787-6098

e: president@runtohonor.com

Vice Pres: Pat McConnell ’02 e: vp@runtohonor.com

Treas: Jan Kennedy

Sister of John Kennedy ’79 e: treasurer@runtohonor.com

Sec’y: Shannon Webb ’04 e: secretary@runtohonor.com

Website: www.runtohonor.com

Seeking a means to show support, commemorate, and pay tribute to our departed alumni? We invite you to join us! RTH’s is organizing Memorial Day events around the country in honor of our fallen USNA Alumni. To find an event near you or to lead an event, contact the Memorial Day committee leads listed in the ‘Upcoming 2024 events.’

Midshipmen from 13th Company embarked on their longest ball run yet, covering the distance to Gillette Stadium. On 5 December, 196 runners kicked off the journey from T-court, carrying the Army/Navy football for the upcoming game. The unique aspect was the dog tags each Midshipman wore, bearing names of 11 fallen 13th Company members who sacrificed their lives in service post-graduation. The tags served as a poignant reminder of their enduring bond. The run culminated in a at Gillette Stadium, uniting the 13th Company in tradition and honoring their fallen comrades.

Upcoming 2024 events:

*Memorial Day RuN* To Honor May 25-27

Committee Leads: Steve Swift ’87, president@runtohonor.com and Shannon Webb ’04, secretary@runtohonor.com, for more information or to host an event in your area

*Memorial Day Reading of Names (Live reading of names listed in Memorial Hall)

SHARED INTEREST GROUP

Welcome to the Finance Professional Shared Interest Group

We are excited to announce that we have launched the USNA Finance Professionals SIG at MyUSNA.com

The purpose of the Finance Professionals SIG is to encourage active networking, mentoring and support between USNA Alumni in finance and finance adjacent spaces.

With the depth and breadth of USNA Alumni focused on finance and finance adjacent careers, there is a critical mass of talent and experience for USNA alumni to share amongst each other.

So, please consider joining the Finance Professionals SIG as a member at USNA Finance Professionals SIG |myUSNA.com

To complement this group there is also at LinkedIn a U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Finance Professionals Special Interest Group | Groups | LinkedIn

Our officers are:

President: Peter Martenson ’92

Vice President: Neil Keegan ’94

Secretary: Rocky McMurray ’92

Treasurer: Greg Calaman ’91

We look forward to seeing you at our virtual and our in-person networking events in 2024!

Committee Leads: Pat McConnell ’02, vp@runtohonor.com and Alexa Hunter ’04, and Sofi Loomis ’99, gear@runtohonor.com

*Honor Our Fallen Heroes in Annapolis, MD Fall 2023 (date TBD) (Memorial Hall service, other activities around a home football game)

Committee Leads: Alexa Hunter ’04, Shannon Webb ‘04,secretary@runtohonor.com and Pat McConnell ’02, vp@runtohonor.com

*48th MCM, MCM10K, & MCM50K in Washington D.C. Oct 25-27 (Shindig, run, cheer)

Committee Leads: Danielle Beier ’10, comms@runtohonor.com and Steve Swift ’87, president@runtohonor.com

RuN* to Honor is in search of volunteers to assist in coordinating and backing ongoing events, as well as devising new memorial events.

If you’re interested in joining a RTH committee, reach out to the committee leads listed above.

Follow and share with us at: www.facebook.com/runtohonor.

Sign up for our email list at: www.runtohonor.com/mailing-list/.

Learn the stories behind the names in Memorial Hall at: www.usnamemorialhall.org

Find RTH gear at: http://runtohonor. bigcartel.com/.

To Honor!

USNA Finance Professionals

Pres: Peter Martenson ’92

e: peter.martenson@gmail.co

Sec’y: Rocky McMurray ’92

e: rockymcmurray92@gmail.com

Run To Honor Shared Interest Group: 13th Company Runs the Army/Navy football from USNA to Foxburough, MA while honoring fallen former company members

USNA Pride

Pres: Christopher Goodale ’17

Vice Pres: Isabel Krause ’17

Sec’y: Ally Annick ’20

Treas: Lucas Beltran ’20

Outreach Officer: Adam Schuman ’08

Established in 2022, the USNA Pride SIG is a community of proud LGBTQ+ and allied alumni. Together, we strive to create inclusive friendships, serve as a platform of representation, and build a network of mentorship among our members.

The USNA Pride SIG operates under a three-fold purpose:

i. Create a bond of community among USNA LGBTQ+ alumni and allies based on shared experiences while at USNA and within the fleet, enabling the development of inclusive friendships which span USNA classes, geographies and services.

ii. Serve as a platform for LGBTQ+ representation within the broader USNA alumni network.

iii. Establish a network of mentorship and support for LGBTQ+ alumni who currently serve in the operating forces, and for current LGBTQ+ midshipmen as they prepare to commission.

The USNA Pride SIG embraces the following core values and definitions within our membership:

Inclusivity - Members of the USNA Pride SIG are committed to providing support, recognition, and acceptance to all, regardless of their personal identity.

Positivity - The USNA Pride SIG will strive to create a positive atmosphere of camaraderie, in which participating members will feel uplifted and inspired to connect with others and share their stories.

Character - Members of the USNA Pride SIG are role models. We will represent the LGBTQ+ and Allies community in a positive manner and will set the standard for behavior through our words, actions, and relationships. We are professional, respectful, and honest.

Community - Members of the USNA Pride SIG possess a wealth of experiences and diverse points of view in all aspects of life. Our main commonality is USNA, however we all bring individual strengths that contribute to the group. Our community is inclusive of all members, positive in nature, and strong in character. Join us for an upcoming event!

- 14 April 2024: Graduating Firstie Luncheon

* If you’re interested in sponsoring a MIDN for shoulder boards or 2nd Lieutenant bars, please reach out to usnapride@gmail.com

- 1 June 2024: Annapolis Pride!

-USNA Pride will hold its first elections this year. Seats up for vote are: Vice-President, Secretary, and Outreach Officer. Email us for more info!

For alumni interested in joining the SIG, getting involved in our event planning, or running for our board, please email our leadership team at usnapride@gmail.com. Follow us on Instagram at @usnapride.

USNA Women

Pres: Linda “Postie” Postenrieder ’82 p: 415-235-9413; e: post82@whidbey.com

Vice Pres: Kendra Chappell ’94 e: kendrachappell94@gmail.com

Outreach: Gillian Richards ’94 e: jillusnawsig@gmail.com

Dozens of alumnae and WSIG members attended and watched the change of command of VADM Yvette Davids ’89 as she assumed the responsibilities of Superintendent of the US Naval Academy. Though a very small event in Memorial Hall, alumnae were well represented with all 3 women Directors from the Foundation Board, Trustees from the Alumni Association Board, Trustees from the Athletic and Scholarship Program Board, Women Flag and General Officers, several members of the WSIG Board, invited alumnae guests, the women from the class of ’89, and even some women West Point alumnae! It was an honor for the members of WSIG to be present on this truly momentous occasion. The CNO, ADM Franchetti and the Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Carlos Del Toro ’83 were present to officiate the ceremony for VADM Davids as she took the helm of USNA.

At the Fluegel Alumni Center (FAC), the WSIG orchestrated a watch party with

3 dozen alumnae, alumni, AA&F staff and friends in a room to watch the live stream with other alumnae and WSIG members on a zoom session watching. We thank Isaac Phillips ’19 and the staff at the Alumni Association for their assistance with making the watch party happen and for hosting the event in our beautiful home!

We are starting the preparations for the 50 years of USNA women and we are looking for volunteers. Please send Postie an email (post82@whidbey.com) and she will add you to the committee. We look forward to the great collaboration of all of our classes.

The WSIG second Annual Gathering will be held on Saturday, 20 April at 1300 in the FAC. We hope you plan to attend in person. We’ll have a zoom session also available to hear about the Board’s plans for 2024 and for getting ready for the 50 Years of Women Celebration in 2026. It will be held in conjunction with the 2024 Naval Academy Alumni Leadership Forum at the Fluegel Alumni Center, Annapolis, MD 18-20 April. Join us for both!

Cecily E. Walsh

207-319-4694(C) 9 Steele Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401

USNA Women Shared Interest Group: First one is a photo from the Sup Change of Command. The second one is from the Alumni Center for the CoC

LAST CALL

William Stewart Berkshire Jr. ’45

LCDR, USN (Ret.)

7 January 2024

Francis Avery Packer Jr. ’45

CDR, USN (Ret.) 14 January 2024

Arthur Leon Child III ’47

CAPT, USN (Ret.)

31 December 2023

Ralph Hugh Minor ’47

5 January 2024

Charles Raymond Miko ’48

CAPT, USN (Ret.)

20 January 2024

Robert Burns Pohl ’48

23 December 2023

Harry Edward Baumgarten Jr. ’49

Lt Col, USAF (Ret.)

14 December 2023

Robert Octavius Minter Jr. ’49

8 January 2024

James Garner Tapp ’49

CAPT, SC, USN (Ret.)

3 December 2023

David Adel Ameen ’50

30 January 2024

Charles Michael Conlon Jr. ’50

LT, USNR (Ret.)

2 January 2024

Burton Richard Weymouth ’50 • CDR, USN (Ret.)

15 November 2023

Arthur Raymond Wright ’50

1 January 2024

Robert Peter Fasulo ’51

10 January 2024

Samuel Paul Ginder Jr. ’51 •

6 January 2024

Gulmer Augustus Hines Jr. ’51

CAPT, USN (Ret.)

31 January 2024

Charles Arthur Bivenour Jr. ’52

17 December 2023

Robert Eugene Buck ’52

Maj, USAF (Ret.)

16 December 2023

Raymond Fowler Crist III ’52

Capt, USMC (Ret.)

10 March 2022

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”

William John Delaney ’52 Col, USAF (Ret.) 7 February 2024

John Paul Fuller ’52 15 July 2021

Peter Michael Maloney ’52

CAPT, USN (Ret.) 20 January 2024

Billie Don Ott ’52 LT, USNR (Ret.) 26 January 2024

Norman Floyd Stein ’52 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 4 February 2024

Bosquet Neill Wev Jr. ’52

USN (Ret.)

January 2024

Richard Lowrie Brummage ’53

USN (Ret.)

October 2023

Charles Curtis Carter ’53

Michael Robert Corboy ’53

John Allen Dunaway Jr. ’53

Gayle Garrett Stucker Sr. ’53

Carl Lyman Master Jr. ’54

USN (Ret.)

January 2024

Ronald Francis McDevitt ’54 •

December 2023

Bryce Alexander Mutch Jr. ’54

USMC (Ret.)

November 2023

Lee Roy Patterson ’54

USN (Ret.)

December 2023

William Julius Richter Jr. ’54 2 January 2024

Joseph John Zable ’54

CDR, USN (Ret.)

January 2024

Victor Alan Brown ’55 3 January 2024

Emil George Riedel Jr. ’55 Col, USAF (Ret.) 26 December 2023

Jerry Walter Fallin ’56 13 November 2022

Jerry Lee Gibson ’56 27 January 2024

Gerry Francis Gossens ’56 • 18 January 2024

Herbert Frazier Hoffman Jr. ’56 • 8 January 2024

Franklin Davis McMullen ’56

CDR, SC, USN (Ret.) 27 November 2023

James Patterson Ransom II ’56

CAPT, USN (Ret.) 19 January 2024

John Stuckey Wilson ’56

CAPT, USNR (Ret.)

1 April 2023

William Campbell Jr. ’57

LCDR, USN (Ret.)

12 January 2024

Bruce DeMars ’57

ADM, USN (Ret.)

3 February 2024

John Lewis Funkhauser ’57

—Laurence Binyon, 1914

Samuel Abram Belcher III ’58

CDR, USN (Ret.) 17 October 2023

Alan Michael Chodorow ’58

CDR, USNR (Ret.) 9 January 2024

John Andrew Cresko Jr. ’58 10 January 2024

Charles Henry Graham Jr. ’58 28 January 2024

Frank Hoback III ’58 15 July 1905

Harry Wagner Konkel ’58 • CAPT, USN (Ret.) 6 January 2024

William Alfred Simmons Jr. ’58 CDR, CEC, USN (Ret.) 11 December 2023

Frederick Charles Anderson ’59 • Col, USAF (Ret.) 30 October 2023

Jacob Boltz ’59 • CDR, SC, USN (Ret.) 29 December 2023

Robert Lawson Manly ’59

1 January 2024

Sylvester William McCall Jr. ’59 22 December 2021

Jerry Patrick McDaniel ’59 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 21 January 2024

Paul Daniel O’Connor Jr. ’59 14 January 2024

Dennis Spencer Read ’59 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 25 January 2024

Regis Hyland Rheb ’59 15 January 2020

Fred Austin Bee ’60 13 January 2024

Francis Richard Rapasky ’60 21 December 2023

Robert Eugene Tucker Jr. ’60

CAPT, USN (Ret.) 16 December 2023

6 Obituary appears in this issue

This list consists of alumni deaths we have learned of since our last issue. Full obituaries will appear in Last Call if/when families send them in.

Charles Roland Denney Jr. ’61 • 21 December 2023

George Harness Dewhirst ’61 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 9 December 2023

Richard Wehunt Michaux ’61 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 10 January 2024

Sam Tompkins Walter Jr. ’61 31 December 2023

Keith Francis Wood ’61 7 January 2024

Paul Lawrence Callahan ’62 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 21 December 2023

Stephen Kent Chadwick ’62 • RADM, USN (Ret.) 18 January 2024

David Clarence English ’62

January 2024

Graham Hall ’62

January 2024

James Allen Marshall ’62

February 2024

Joseph Guydon Procopio ’62

December 2023

Phillip Harding Taylor ’62

December 2023

John Patrick Michael Burns Jr. ’63

November 2023

Joseph Michael Favor ’63

February 2024

Jon Andrew Helstrom ’63

December 2023

David Nelson Hull ’63 •

USN (Ret.)

December 2023

Emil Mark Schwing ’63

USN (Ret.)

January 2024

Douglas Boyd Cutter ’64

USNR (Ret.)

December 2023

Lewis Raymond Newby ’64

USN (Ret.)

26 January 2024

Robert George Schick ’64 9 January 2024

Lloyd Enoch Williams ’64 20 January 2024

Hugh Reeves Adair ’65

CAPT, USN (Ret.) 1 February 2024

Gilbert Commodore Crouse Jr. ’65 12 December 2023

Roger Lewis Demaris ’65 13 August 2023

William Albert Farnsworth Jr. ’65

LCDR, USN (Ret.) 20 December 2023

Edward Bradley Merino ’65 23 December 2023

Kenneth Kinard Miles ’65

LCDR, USN (Ret.) 24 January 2024

Eric Peter Morrissette ’65 6 December 2023

Douglas Roger Powell ’65 • 13 September 2023

Donald Vernon Colley ’66

CAPT, USN 17 November 2023

Lawrence Joseph Early Jr. ’66 24 January 2024

James Edward Koons ’66 • 13 December 2023

Douglas Edward May ’66 7 December 2023

William Allison Wood ’66 • CAPT, USN (Ret.) 15 January 2024

Robert Werner Bagwell ’67 16 January 2024

Christopher Gleason Gates ’67

CAPT, USN (Ret.) 26 December 2023

Frederick John Geiger ’67 20 December 2023

Wilding Green Harris Jr. ’67 5 February 2024

Pleasant Lawrence Murphy Jr. ’67 9 January 2024

David Charles Beard ’68 Maj, USMC (Ret.) 20 January 2024

Michael Laird Lagow ’68 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 27 November 2023

Dennis Kwock Hung Young ’68 12 December 2023

Robert Glenn Kokstein ’69 19 January 2024

William Joseph Laz ’69 • CAPT, USN (Ret.) 4 January 2024

John Howard Strauss ’69 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 26 January 2024

Thomas John Wandishin ’69 22 January 2024

John Quinton Dewitt Jr. ’70 7 January 2024

Frederic George Krapf III ’70 • 20 August 2023

William Lloyd Hatcher III ’71 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 10 August 2023

Robert Alan Holbach ’71 9 January 2024

H. Leland Whitfield III ’71 5 January 2024

Richard Henry Jacobs ’72 27 December 2023

Daniel Martin McHale Sr. ’73 15 December 2023

Michael Eugene Little ’74 8 January 2024

Daniel Patrick Mays ’74 21 December 2023

Thomas Richard Morse ’74 • 13 January 2024

James Bernard Epps ’76 24 December 2023

David Thomas Kerrick ’76 • Col, USMC (Ret.) 13 December 2023

Craig Charles Scott ’76 CDR, USNR (Ret.) 9 February 2024

Francis John Wysocki ’76 Maj, USMC (Ret.) 5 February 2024

Harold Hicks Casey ’77 17 December 2023

Terry Lane Wilton ’77 • LCDR, USN (Ret.) 15 January 2024

Peter James Koufos ’79 LTJG, SC, USN (Ret.) 8 December 2023

John Michael Foertch ’81 17 December 2023

Michael John Keating ’83 CDR, USN (Ret.) 26 January 2024

Harry Paul Ward ’84 • LtCol, USMC (Ret.) 16 December 2023

Michael John Ottinger ’85 • CAPT, USN (Ret.) 18 December 2023

Paul Patrick Hagerty Jr. ’87 CDR, USNR (Ret.) 23 January 2024

Thomas Joseph Gaffney ’88 5 February 2024

Gregory Leigh Farley ’89 13 November 2022

Brian Llewellyn Davies ’91 RADM, USN 30 December 2023

Donald Jerry Lane ’92 Col, USAF (Ret.) 23 December 2023

John Thomas Mattioli Jr. ’93 19 December 2023

John James Skelly ’93 15 January 2024

Patrick Walsh Skora ’02 • CDR, USNR (Ret.) 20 December 2023

Douglas Michael Morea ’04 CDR, USNR 2 January 2024

Miguel Justin Nava ’17 Capt, USMC 7 February 2024

Jose Luis Resendez ’19 • LT, USN 4 January 2024

Mason Carter Halsey ’24 MIDN, USN 1 January 2024

WILLIAM STEWART BERKSHIRE JR. ’45

Lieutenant Commander W.S. Berkshire Jr., USN (Ret.), passed away on 7 January 2024.

“Stewart” was born in El Paso, TX, on 30 December 1923 to Elizabeth Sarah (Barricklow) and Stewart Berkshire Sr. In 1933, his father moved to Washington, DC, and the family soon followed. Stewart graduated from Western High School in 1941 and a month later, was sworn in as a midshipman at the Naval Academy. He graduated in 1944 with the wartime accelerated Class of 1945.

His career in the Navy started as supply and disbursing officer on DAVID W. TAYLOR (DD-551) in the Pacific, participating in the second Battle of the Philippine Sea and the occupation of Japan. At the end of the war, Stewart was supply officer of SubGroup One of the Pacific Reserve Fleet. He next was assigned to the Navy Department in Washington, DC; Pearl Harbor, HI; Albuquerque, NM; WINDHAM BAY (T-CVE-92) in the Pacific as supply officer; the Naval Postgraduate School; NAS Alameda; and Western Transport Air Force, Travis AFB, CA, as logistics officer.

Upon his retirement in 1964, Stewart moved to San Jose, CA, to pursue advanced education. He obtained an MBA degree from San Jose State University and a PHD from Santa Clara University.

In 1944, he married Jane Dollarhide of Washington, DC, and they had two outstanding daughters, Susan Yourd and Elizabeth Sarah Rech. He and Jane divorced in 1970.

In 1971, Stewart married Betty Van Treese Wellington in San Jose. Betty brought to the family four fine children, Kathryn Dianne Wellington, David Stewart Wellington, Julie Ann Wellington and Patricia Jean Ary and they were as dear to Stewart as his own.

They moved to Costa Mesa, CA, when Stewart was appointed to the faculty of California State University at Long Beach, where he taught accounting until retiring in 1987.

They moved to Newport Beach, CA, where they lived for 17 wonderful years, followed by several years in Kailua-Kona, HI, before returning to Santa Ana, and finally, to The Terraces of Los Gatos, CA.

Betty and Stewart enjoyed traveling across the U.S. (including Hawaii and Alaska) and Canada. They volunteered in various charitable jobs and were active in the Presbyterian Church. They were blessed to have loved and been loved by both families.

WSB Jr. ’45 H

FRANCIS AVERY PACKER JR. ’45

Commander Francis A. Packer Jr., USN (Ret.), died peacefully on 14 January 2024 in New Providence, NJ. He was 100 years old.

“Tod” was born on 21 May 1923, in San Diego, CA, to Bernice (Duncan) and Francis Avery Packer Sr. As his father was a naval officer, Tod grew up all over the world, including in China, Mexico and the Philippines. Tod joined the Naval Academy in June 1941, where he was a proud member of the Class of 1945. The wartime class graduated one year early in June 1944. He saw duty in the Pacific on INDIANA in 1945, and his battleship was in the Bay of Tokyo in August 1945 when the articles of surrender were signed. He completed a master’s degree in marine engineering at MIT in 1948.

While stationed in Boston in the early 1950s, Tod met Barbara Kraft and they married in July 1951 in Montclair, NJ. They were married for 66 years until Barbara’s passing in 2017.

During his naval career, Tod worked in the Norfolk, VA, Naval Shipyard; in the ship squadron in San Diego; in Jacksonville, FL; in Annapolis, MD; and at the Bureau of Ships in Washington, DC.

After his retirement from the Navy in 1967, Tod joined the shipbuilding program of Esso International (now known as Exxon), which took him and his family to New Canaan, CT, Genoa, Italy, Kobe, Japan, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and finally Summit, NJ. Tod retired from Exxon in 1983, and

thereafter taught mathematics at local high schools and at Kean College of New Jersey.

Tod and Barbara served on the vestry of Calvary Church in Summit, where they also headed up the annual blood drive for 16 years. In 2010, the Episcopal Diocese recognized the couple with an award for their leadership in lay activity.

Tod traced his family roots to officers in George Washington’s army. In the 1960s, Tod became a member of the Society of the Cincinnati, Connecticut Chapter, and subsequently served as chapter president for several years.

He leaves behind his children, Deborah Packer Mumm, Judith Packer Jesudason and Francis Avery Packer III; grandchildren, Andy, Laura, Adam, Charles and Henry; and four great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara; younger brother, Captain Duncan Packer ’47; and grandson, Aaron.

A memorial service took place in Calvary Church on 24 February 2024, followed by inurnment, together with Barbara, at the Naval Academy Columbarium, with full military honors. H

ARTHUR LEON CHILD III ’47

Captain Arthur L. Child, USN (Ret.), died on 31 December 2023 at Paradise Valley Estates in Fairfield, CA. He was 101 years old.

Born in Grinnell, IA, “Dan” spent his teenage years in California, where he enlisted in the Navy on his 18th birthday, 28 May 1940. Before entering the Naval Academy, he served on the battleships OKLAHOMA and NORTH CAROLINA

After attending the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), he became a member of the Class of 1947, graduating in June 1946, as a member of the 17th Company.

Upon graduation, he attended the Navy Supply Corps School and subsequently served in four ships: OZBOURN (DD-846), STICKELL (DD-888), BUSHNELL (AS-15) and BRYCE CANYON (AD-25). Ashore, he served in Japan, China, Key West, Puerto Rico, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Long Beach, San Diego and Hawaii. He served in Vietnam in the 1968-1969 period and was awarded a Legion of Merit with a Combat V for service at Naval Support Activity, Da Nang.

He earned a master’s degree in management from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1961.

After retirement, he did postgraduate work in theater arts at California State University, Long Beach. Completing the two-year program, he spent some 20 years directing community theater productions in California and Pensacola, FL.

Always a constant reader, he also loved travel, and over time he visited every continent, every state in the Union, and at least two thirds of the world’s countries.

He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Thursia May “Sue” Irish Child, in April 2002; and two sons, Charles Christopher Child, killed in Vietnam in October 1969, and Arthur Anthony Child, killed in a traffic accident in December 1977.

In November 2002, Arthur married Patricia Crawford Orme, a close childhood friend from high school in North Hollywood, CA. She passed away in August 2014.

Dan is survived by his third wife, Sylvia Brandwick, a former enlisted Marine and Army officer; three sons (and their wives), Steven Child (Joyce Mortensen Child), Michael Child (Anita Miller Child) and Peter Child (Tami Child); eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. H

JAMES GARNER TAPP ’49

Captain James G. Tapp, USN (Ret.), passed away on 3 December 2023 in La Jolla, CA, at the age of 98. His wife of 72 years, Patricia “Pat” Tapp, 94 years old, had passed away three days earlier and Jim didn’t want her to be alone.

“Jim” was born in Buford, GA, and upon graduation from high school there, he served 15 months of enlisted service in the Signal Corps before entering the Naval Academy in 1945. Jim was commissioned to service in the Navy Supply Corps as an ensign in 1949.

He served for 33 years, both abroad and stateside with afloat assignments during the Korean and Vietnam wars. His last assignment was as officer-in-charge of Naval Regional Procurement Office in Long Beach, CA.

In 1973, Jim retired from the Navy and accepted the position of purchasing agent for the County of San Diego, which he did for 15 years.

Retirement for Jim and Pat was glorious in La Jolla, CA, where they both thrived as civic volunteers and active members of La Jolla Country Club. When they finally slowed down, they sold their home and moved to the vibrant retirement community of Vi at La Jolla. They enjoyed their new home there for ten years before passing … together.

Jim and Pat will be buried at Dallas/Ft. Worth National Cemetery, surrounded by their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The Tapp Family H

BURTON RICHARD WEYMOUTH ’50

Commander Burton R. Weymouth, USN (Ret.), 96, died on 15 November 2023 of acute kidney failure and Covid.

Burton was born on 7 November 1927 in Hopedale, MA, to Currier Clyde Weymouth and Edna Andrews (Yeaton) Weymouth. Burton moved to Farmington, ME, when he was four years old and graduated from Farmington High School in 1945. He was active in basketball, track (State Champions in 1945) and skiing. He attended the University of Maine at Orono for one year before reporting to the Naval Academy. While at Annapolis, he participated in golf, basketball, rifle and other intramural sports. He graduated from USNA in June 1950 with a BS degree and was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy.

His first tour was to the Naval Air Training Command in Pensacola, FL. He completed flight training in 1952. Subsequent tours consisted of assignments to operating squadrons of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet located in the United States. Overseas deployments included Iceland, Europe, North Africa and Japan during the Korean War. He served onboard several aircraft carriers as a member of the ship’s crew and as a pilot, and also had several Intelligence tours, including the Defense Intelligence Agency and the Office of Naval Intelligence. As a Navy pilot, he was experienced in anti-submarine operations and search and rescue missions and was qualified in many fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft.

Burton retired from the Navy in June 1974 and returned to his family home in Freeman, ME. He was a substitute teacher, then joined Old Post Office Realty in Strong, ME. An avid woodworker, he spent many years restoring the Weymouth Family Homestead. He was an active volunteer at Franklin Memorial Hospital, where he had been chairman of the board of trustees for three years. He and his wife, Lucile, enjoyed playing golf. They spent summers at New England courses and winter months in Pensacola, FL, where they could continue their golf and travel to historic places. Burton was active in the Episcopal Church and served on several church committees in Florida and Maine. He was an active member of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Rangeley, ME.

Predeceased by his wife, Lucile, in May 2015, he is survived by their daughter, Diane; son, Douglas (Laurie); grandson Andrew (Alexé); and great-granddaughters, Lallie Beth, Madeleine and Léa. He was also predeceased by his half-brother, George William Yeaton. H

SAMUEL PAUL GINDER JR. ’51

Samuel P. Ginder Jr. passed away on 6 January 2024.

“Sam” was born to Ferdie Williamson and RADM Samuel P. Ginder Sr. ’16 in Coronado, CA, on 23 November 1929 into a Navy family. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1951, following his father and uncles, RADM John Ginder ’23 and VADM Thomas Combs ’20.

After graduation, Sam served aboard WISCONSIN (BB-64) during the Korean War and qualified in submarines in 1954 while serving aboard SENNET. He married CJ Hirsch on 1 May 1955.

Sam left the Navy in 1958 to join Vitro Laboratories as a system engineer and project manager on the Polaris Ballistic Missile System, followed by Polaris/Poseidon weapon systems for LAFAYETTE-class submarines. He joined Dunlap Associates, supporting U.S. Air Force logistics and contingency planning operations. He managed the design of an automated information system supporting USAID’s work in Third World nations.

At IBM’s Federal Systems Division, he worked with DOD computer systems, facilitating the transfer of DOD hardware and software to state and local governments, and in Sonar Systems Marketing at IBM’s Shipboard and Defense Systems plant. Sam received IBM’s 1979 President’s Award for outstanding marketing performance.

In 1981, Sam became Vice President of Business Development for Presearch Incorporated. In 1985, he formed the Advanced Programs Development (APD) Group, providing marketing and proposal preparation services to defense contractors. He retired in 1994.

Sam earned an MEA from The George Washington University, and a MALS from Georgetown University, reflecting his love of philosophy, history of the ancient world and creative writing. He published five novels, a biography and three special TV production scripts. He taught computer systems at the American University Center for Technology, and computer graphics at Montgomery College.

Sam was on the board of directors of his Naval Academy class, and served as vice president, secretary and corresponding secretary. He was editor of the 1951-2001 Lucky Bag, the 50th Reunion Book and executive producer of a video history of the Class of 1951. Sam was a member of the Navy League, USNA Alumni Association, Army and Navy Club, Naval Submarine League, Naval Institute and the Military Order of the Carabao.

Sam is survived by his beloved wife of almost 70 years, CJ Ginder; daughter, Janie Allen (Bruce); and granddaughter, Kimberley Allen. His daughter, Nancy, died in 1983.

Please direct memorials to the Nancy Elizabeth Ginder Memorial Scholarship at Frostburg State University (https://frostburg.academicworks. com/donors/ginder). Questions? Contact Liz Nelson at (eanelson@ frostburg.edu) or 301-697-4438. H

JEROME RAPKIN ’52

Captain Jerome Rapkin, USN (Ret.), passed away in Annapolis, MD, on 24 September 2023. He was 94 years old.

“Jerry” was the son of Harry and Ida Rapkin of Rehoboth Beach, DE. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with the Class of 1952.

After graduation, Jerry served aboard several ships before becoming CO of CLAUDE V. RICKETTS (DDG-5) and ComDesRon 26. He held a MSEE degree from the Naval Postgraduate School with specialties in financial management, acquisition management and weapon systems engineering.

During his several tours in Washington, DC, he served as business manager of the Aegis Weapons System; program manager of Ship Self-Defense; comptroller of NavOrd; head of Surface Warfare, NavSea; and budget director of NavMat.

Upon retiring from the U.S. Navy in 1979, he was employed by the Gould, Inc. - Ocean Systems Division as vice president of program

management and engineering development for undersea weapons. Further industry experience included operating various defense related companies as senior vice president and COO. Prior to leaving industry, he was president and CEO of Breakwater Development Corporation.

Jerry has held several positions with civic associations. Jerry served as president of two major Navy League councils and completed 15 years as a Navy League national officer. He was the recipient of the Secretary of the Navy’s Superior Public Service Award. He was a National Director Emeritus and is in the Navy League Hall of Fame. He completed three years as a trustee of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association; was on the board of directors of his local MOAA chapter. Jerry served as president of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Class of ’52.

He resided in Annapolis and is survived by his wife, Janet; son, Keith (Mary); daughters, Leigh (Stephen) and Paige (Steven); and grandson, Kevin.

A celebration of life was held at the Naval Academy Columbarium. Memorial donations may be made to the Naval Academy Foundation online at (www.usna.com/give) or by phone at 410-295-4115. H

BOSQUET NEILL WEV JR. ’52

Lieutenant Commander B.N. Wev Jr., USN (Ret.), 94, passed away on 19 January 2024 in Fredericksburg, VA.

Born in Baltimore, MD, “Biscuit” was the son of Rear Admiral B.N. Wev ’27 and Elizabeth (Robinson). He entered Bancroft via a presidential appointment after prepping at Severn School. At USNA, he was crew team coxswain (Plebe year), a dinghy sailor (Youngster year) and managed the dinghy team his last two years. Biscuit also served as company representative for The Log

Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Navy ensign and married his Academy OAO, Anne “Petey” Campbell Armistead. Biscuit excelled as a submarine officer. His 20-year career in the Silent Service included the submarines MANTA, CLAMAGORE, SEA CAT and SEA LEOPARD (as XO). Shore assignments included teaching sonar systems to U.S. and international students in Key West, FL, and a support assignment in Millington, TN. In 1962, he joined JAMES MONROE (SSBN-622) under construction in Newport News. Biscuit served as navigator (Blue) on his first nuclear powered submarine, enjoying deployments to Rota, Spain, and Holy Loch, Scotland. His final assignments were on the staff of Submarine Forces, Atlantic Fleet in Norfolk, VA, and the Pentagon, retiring in 1972.

His civilian years were spent as a contractor in the Washington, DC, area. Petey and Biscuit enjoyed 20 years in Arlington, VA. They were active members at Grace Episcopal Church and St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, where Biscuit served as junior warden for many years. As a USNA Alumni Association member and ’52 Class president, he was an enthusiastic supporter at home football games. He shared his love for the Midshipmen and Redskins and was known for his extensive Blue & Gold and Burgundy & Gold wardrobe. In 1984, Petey and Biscuit moved to Annapolis, where they enjoyed many years of boating on the Chesapeake and entertaining family and friends. Sailing aboard Holland America lines with the Jazz Cruise kept them busy for many years.

Bosquet was predeceased by his parents; wife, Anne; and infant son, “Little Bis.” He is survived by four children: Anne (Jim), Elizabeth (Pat), Diane (Dave) and Alex (Chellie); seven grandchildren who knew him as “Gramps” and “Wix;” seven great-grandchildren; and his sister, Connie.

Services and inurnment took place at the Naval Academy.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Naval Academy Foundation (www.usna.com/give).

Along with the rest of his 1952 Classmates, he leaves behind “tough shoes to fill.”

Well done, good and faithful servant. H

RICHARD LOWRIE BRUMMAGE ’53

Captain Richard L. Brummage, USN (Ret.), of Solana Beach, CA, passed away at the age of 92 on 21 October 2023.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1931, he was the oldest child of Richard Lee Brummage and Mary Barton Brummage. His younger sisters, Deirdre and Mary, arrived a few years later.

Richard’s parents worked hard to provide a good life for their family during the Great Depression, and they moved frequently. By the time he was 17 years old, Richard had attended 11 different schools in New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio. He then entered the Naval Academy, where he developed lifelong friendships and graduated in 1953.

In 1955, Richard earned his Wings of Gold in Pensacola, FL, and became a naval aviator. A few months later, he met Hazel Wydelle “Delle” Lee and they were married in Fort Worth, TX. Their son, Ken, was born in 1956, and their daughter, Carole, was born in 1960.

Richard and Delle learned to navigate military life masterfully as tours of duty took their family from Texas to New Jersey to Rhode Island to California to Florida to Virginia, then back to California, Rhode Island, Virginia, California and Virginia again.

Richard flew sorties all over the world—into the Northern Lights of the Arctic Circle, off the coast of Florida during the Cuban Missile Crisis, off the coast of Vietnam and elsewhere. He lived—and landed—aboard many aircraft carriers, including YORKTOWN and TRIPOLI. He commanded large squadrons and concluded his naval career at the Pentagon.

Richard was a lifelong learner, earning advanced degrees from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, the Naval War College in Newport, RI, and The George Washington University in Washington, DC.

Captain Brummage retired from the Navy after 26 years of service. He and Delle moved back to San Diego, where he began a second career in the aerospace industry.

Richard and Delle were active in their retirement, traveling to Scotland, England, Belgium, France, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Greece, Argentina and other destinations.

Predeceased by Delle in 2012, Richard is survived by their children, Ken and Carole; his sister, Mary Brummage Pease; and extended family. They were also the proud grandparents of Kenneth Lee Brummage and Kyra Elizabeth Brummage.

Richard and Delle will be interred together at Miramar National Cemetery on 29 March 2024.

Memorial donations may be made to Reading Legacies (https:// readinglegacies.org) or Shriner’s Hospitals for Children (www.shriners childrens.org). H

THOMAS WILLIAM SCHAAF ’53

Commander Thomas W. Schaaf, USN (Ret.), 96, passed away peacefully in Williamsburg, VA, while under hospice care on 4 November 2023.

“Tom” was born in 1927 in Germantown, PA, and at age 17, was accepted into the Naval Aviation Cadet program, where he earned his Wings and a commission in the Naval Reserve. After World War II, most junior officers were discharged, but luckily, an air wing commander helped him obtain a Naval Academy appointment. On graduation day, he married Phyllis Curran. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in 2023.

In 1962, Tom’s carrier group helped enforce the Cuban Missile Crisis blockade. In 1964, he was the Sixth Fleet Strike Group Commander’s aide, during which time he escorted an array of flagship visitors, including Olivia de Havilland, Sophia Loren, Princess Grace of Monaco, Elizabeth Taylor, John Wayne and William Holden. In 1965, Tom earned a master’s degree at the Naval War College and a year later, was assigned to the Navy’s Pentagon office for Strategic Nuclear Plans. While on a monthly jet proficiency training flight out of Andrews AFB, the engine of the T-1 he

and another pilot were flying failed immediately after takeoff. Both pilots ejected successfully.

In 1967, Tom became executive officer of VA-93, which deployed in January 1968 on BON HOMME RICHARD, flying A-4 Skyhawks. Halfway through this tour, the squadron commander was killed, and Tom assumed command. He served as CO for the remainder of that deployment and during a second combat tour on RANGER, this time flying A-7 Corsairs. In 1969, Tom embarked on a third combat deployment on CORAL SEA as air boss. During these deployments, Tom earned the Distinguished Flying Cross (2), Air Medal (19) and Navy Commendation Medal (3). Phyllis also served as leader for the families back home, keeping morale high and comforting the families of squadron mates who never returned from the war.

After retirement, Tom earned a master’s degree from The George Washington University; served as a ship building advisor at the national headquarters for Ronald Reagan’s 1980 and 1984 presidential campaigns; and was a team member, led by retired Admiral Thomas Moorer, to repurpose former Soviet ballistic missiles for civilian satellite launches.

Tom is survived by his wife, Phyllis; their five sons, Tom Jr., John, Stephen, Paul and Andrew; daughter, Mary Ellen; 16 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a time yet to be determined. H

GAYLE GARRETT STUCKER SR. ’53

Gayle G. Stucker Sr. passed away peacefully of natural causes on 9 January 2024 in Annapolis, MD.

Gayle was born in Louisville, KY, on 11 June 1929 to the late Harold Lee Stucker Sr. and Emma Lee Stucker of Louisville, KY. He graduated from Kiser High School in Dayton, OH, in 1947 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his service, he obtained a Secretary of the Navy appointment to the Naval Academy, attended NAPS and graduated with the USNA Class of 1953. While deployed to Okinawa, Japan, Gayle competed in Olympic rifle and pistol pre-trials.

Gayle married Edith Ann “Edie” Tucker of Annapolis, MD, in 1954. After serving four years, Gayle resigned his commission as a Marine first lieutenant and obtained employment with IBM. He served 34 years with IBM as a field engineer.

After his retirement from IBM, Gayle was active in Heritage Baptist Church serving as a deacon, trustee and Sunday school teacher. He also served as an assistant in the Heritage Learning Center Preschool. Other activities he enjoyed were volunteering for Habitat for Humanity; taking a lead role in sponsoring a Bosnian refugee family whom he helped get employment, housing and their American citizenship; serving on the board of directors for Langton Green Inc (a non-profit organization for adults with developmental disabilities); and was active in Rotary’s Books for International Goodwill. Additional hobbies included running marathons, bicycling, Lego robotics, woodcarving, honeybees, golf, homemade pizza and biscotti, and reading.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Harold Stucker Jr. of Louisville, KY, and Richard Stucker of Pageland, SC. Gayle is survived by his wife of 69 years, Edie; two children, Karen Edith Johnson (Steven Wayne ’75) of Brookeville, MD, and Gayle Garrett Stucker Jr. of Lake Ridge, VA; four grandchildren, Cheryl Ann Machi (Marty Paul), Erin Nicole Dyer (Bryan Patrick), Matthew Wayne Johnson and Kyle Garrett Stucker; and two great-grandchildren, Rex Christian Machi and Riley Elle Dyer.

Funeral services were held at Heritage Baptist Church in Annapolis, MD, on 25 January 2024, followed by interment at Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville, MD.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gayle’s name to B.I.G Books at Suite B, 451 Defense Highway, Annapolis, MD 21401 (www.big-books.org) or Heritage Baptist Church, 1740 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401 (www.heritageloves.com). H

RONALD FRANCIS MCDEVITT ’54

“Frank” McDevitt of Pocono Pines, PA, passed away on 22 December 2023 at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 91 years old.

Born in 1932 in Washington, DC, he was the son of the late Elmer and Ruth (née Junker) McDevitt.

Upon graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1954, Frank joined the Navy destroyer fleet, serving on FLOYD B. BARKS and was part of the commissioning crew of JOHN PAUL JONES. He was selected for the submarine force and served on SENNET He completed his naval service as a lieutenant commander in SEA LION

Following his military service, Frank’s civilian career included executive leadership roles in the Singer Company, Poloron, Con Edison and Merrin Electric, followed by a return to government service as Director of Fleet Support for the U.S. Military Sealift Command.

Frank spent his retirement years in Pocono Pines, PA, where he was honored to actively contribute his time to several local community organizations. His favorite pastimes included spending time with family and friends, domestic and international travel, skiing, golf, fishing, jigsaw puzzles, reading, watching football and giving back to his local community in any capacity and as frequently as possible.

Frank was the beloved husband of the late Patricia (née Nolan) McDevitt; loving father of Anne McDevitt, Maureen Jensen (Randy), John McDevitt (Gloria), Sheila Speckin (Kim Knight), Paul McDevitt (Kristin Evins), Elise Nolan (Craig); proud grandfather of Nolan Jensen, Katelynn Jensen, Jessica McDevitt, Connor McDevitt, Zachary McDevitt, Ryleigh McDevitt, Steven Speckin, Sean Speckin and Katrina Botelho; and great-grandfather of Charlotte Speckin. Frank was predeceased by his children, Mary and Timothy McDevitt.

A Funeral Mass took place at St. Maximilian Kolbe Roman Catholic Church in Pocono Pines, PA, on 29 December 2023. Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to any of these charities, all of which were very close to Frank’s heart: Pocono Lions Club (www.poconolions.org), American Legion (www.legion.org), Pocono Submarine Veterans (www.poconosubvets.org), Disabled American Veterans (www.dav.org), St. Maximilian Kolbe R.C. Church (www. stmaxkolbepoconos.org), Lake Naomi Club (www.lakenaomiclub.com) or Lehigh Valley Home Health & Hospice Services (www.lvhn.org). H

DONALD JAMES MEYER ’54

Captain Donald J. Meyer, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 13 March 2022 in Vero Beach, FL.

“Don” was born on 2 December 1929 in Rochester, NY, to George Earl and Gertrude Schickler Meyer. In 1947, Don graduated from Aquinas Institute and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He attended the Naval Academy Preparatory School prior to his appointment to the Naval Academy. He graduated with the Class of 1954, 11th Company, and later earned advanced degrees in International Affairs at the Naval War College and The George Washington University.

Don served at sea on ARNED (AKA-56), ARGONAUT (SS-475), CUBERA (SS-347) and GEORGE WASHINGTON (SSBN-598), and commanded REQUIN (SS-481) and CUTLASS (SS-478). Shore tours included ComSubRon 63, GMS Dam Neck, ComSubLant, EastLant NATO London, the Pentagon and ROTC Unit commanding officer and professor of naval science at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.

Following his naval service, Don continued to contribute to the community and our nation as a leader in the Rotary Club of Virginia Beach and Rotary International, where he led the Group Study Exchange Team. Don made an equally significant and lasting impact as founding member and captain of the Marine Stranding Team for the Virginia

Marine Science Museum, which has now responded to thousands of stranded marine mammals and sea turtles.

In the 1990s, Don met Sally. They were married and enjoyed life centered on family and friends in Virginia Beach, VA, and Vero Beach, FL.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Mary Theresa Kinney; and five of his six siblings. He is survived by his wife and dearest friend, Sally Hommell Meyer of Virginia Beach and Vero Beach; his sister, Joyce McCabe; his children, Elizabeth K. Meyer, Paul K. Meyer, Maureen H. Meyer and Daniel P. Meyer; five grandchildren; two greatgrandchildren; stepchildren, Cheryl L. Travelstead and Robert B. Potts; and three step-grandchildren.

His classmates, family and friends will remember Don as a true gentleman. A caring, warm-hearted man who was kind and gracious to everyone he met. He was a dedicated Christian, a thoroughly professional naval officer and a daring submariner.

A memorial service and burial in Arlington National Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Memorials in Don’s name may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org.) or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/donate). H

GEORGE VALENTINE ZEBERLEIN JR. ’54

Captain George V. Zeberlein, USN (Ret.), passed away on 29 August 2023 in McLean, VA.

Born on 9 January 1930 in Baltimore, MD, he was the son of George and Constance Zeberlein. He attended two years of college at the University of Maryland, entering the United States Naval Academy in 1950. At Annapolis, he was active in sports and excelled on the wrestling team. Upon graduation with the Class of 1954, George was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy and married Joan Marrie of Lancaster, PA.

Over his 30-year career as a Supply Corps officer, some favorite tours of duty were as captain of the supply depot in Guam and his final three-year tour as supply officer for the Naval Academy.

Retirement in Annapolis allowed George and Joan to remain active in the USNA Alumni Association and they became fixtures at Navy sports, the Chapel, arts and music events, and various social events. In addition, they hosted family and friends for many holidays over the years at their home on Weems Creek in Annapolis near Navy-Marine Corps Stadium.

A loving father, grandfather, uncle, brother and great-grandfather, George received the most joy from his family, and enjoyed a long and blessed life, which has left a legacy for his family. George and Joan’s family extended to the many friends they gathered together throughout their Navy career and retirement years.

Predeceased by his beloved wife, Joan (2022), George is survived by their four children, Patricia (Bill), Pamela (Manny), Thomas and Curtis (Joan); eight grandchildren, Jennifer, Allison, Jeffrey, Erik, Emily, Winston, Mason and Ainsley; great-grandchildren, Zoe and Skylar; his brothers, Robert and Thomas; and sister, Ann. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, James; and baby son, George.

A celebration of his life, including funeral services and interment of his ashes, was celebrated at the Naval Academy Chapel and Columbarium on 13 November 2023.

The Zeberlein Family H

GERRY

FRANCIS GOSSENS ’56

Gerry F. Gossens died on 18 January 2024, in Middlebury, VT. A man for every possible season and a world traveler, Gerry kept his family laughing, loving and together for a lifetime.

Gerry was dedicated to the service of his country and fellow humans. Born in Texas in 1933, he moved to Beirut in 1947, when his father took a job with the Trans-Arabian Pipeline. As a high schooler in Beirut, Gerry met his first wife, Nancy James. A true Cold Warrior,

Gerry entered the U.S. Naval Academy in 1952 and graduated with the Class of 1956.

He then joined the U.S. Air Force as a pilot and intelligence officer before transferring to the Central Intelligence Agency in 1960. He remained with the CIA until 1984, serving as Chief of Station in multiple postings across Africa before closing his career as Deputy Chief of Station in Paris.

In his “retirement” in Vermont, Gerry served on the Salisbury Selectboard in the Vermont State House of Representatives, on the University of Vermont Board of Directors and in the Vermont State Senate. He also met and married his second wife, Margaret “Betsy” Strolle.

Gerry was predeceased by his first wife, Nancy, and his three siblings, Charlotte Mitchell, Phillip Gossens and Peter Gossens. He is survived by his wife, Betsy; his three children, Jim (Daniry), Christine (Bob Price) and Joanne Gossen (Beth Sanclemente); two stepsons, Carl (Adriane) and Tom (Kate); and eight grandchildren, Michael, David, Sam, Carlo, Owen, Ed, Max and Vivian.

A life well-lived and a great loss, not just to family and friends, but to all. H

HERBERT FRAZIER HOFFMAN JR. ’56

“Herb” Hoffman died peacefully while living in a senior community in Frederick, MD, on 8 January 2024. He was 89 years old.

Herb graduated with honors from Episcopal Academy in 1952 and entered the Naval Academy that same year. While at Annapolis, he sailed four years with the varsity sailing team. His love of sailing continued throughout his life, sailing with his wife, family and friends locally and in the British Virgin Islands. Upon graduation, he became a naval aviator, fulfilling his boyhood dream.

After his obligated service, Herb joined Dupont, but his love of flying lured him into commercial aviation with Eastern Airlines, where he remained until the demise of the company. He completed his aviation career as a consultant for the FAA. In his retirement years, his love for flying continued and he became an ultralight pilot.

Herb loved travel and after retiring, he and his wife, Sue, took many trips to National Parks across the country in their motor home. They also took many trips to Europe and traveled with the family, as well. He had the traveling spirit and even when this was no longer possible, he continued dreaming of faraway places.

He will be remembered by classmates and friends as fun loving, considerate of others and totally open and honest about his convictions.

Herb often said that he was most proud of raising his four children with his wife, Sue. In addition to his wife of 67 wonderful years, Susanne, he is survived by their daughter, Nancy Hennessey; three sons, Jeffrey, Scott and John; six grandchildren, Lauren, Megan, Teddy, Devon, John and Sam; and two nephews, Kenneth and Ross Sormani.

A memorial service will be planned in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD (www.cbmm.org); or All Saints Episcopal Church in Frederick, MD (www.allsaintsmd.org). Please note “In memory of Herbert Hoffman.” H

WAYNE MIDDLETON WILLS ’56

Major Wayne M. Wills, USMC (Ret.), died on 6 September 2023 in Sandy Springs, GA, at the age of 92.

Wayne was born in Jackson, MS, to William and Frances Wills on 6 February 1931 and attended Millsaps College prior to enlisting in the Army, where he served for four years. He entered the Naval Academy and became a member of the 20th Company. At Annapolis, Wayne was a standout intercollegiate gymnast, excelling in the parallel bars event. He was named the winter set brigade commander First Class Year.

Following graduation in 1956, he served 18 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. Tours included three assignments at Marine Corps schools in Quantico, VA; sea duty on the Sixth Fleet flagship; two years as inspector instructor of a Marine Reserve battalion in Chicago, IL; and a Vietnam tour (1967-1968) as operations officer of the 26th Marine Regiment at Khe Sanh, and later, as liaison officer between the Marine 3rd Division and the U.S. Army First Cavalry Division.

Upon retiring from the Marines in 1974, he went to work at the Southern Company, a utility holding company in Atlanta, GA. He eventually became a manager in administrative services, until his retirement in 1989. Desiring to stay active, he worked the 1990 Census for two years; trade shows for the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau; and volunteered for the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics.

Wayne was an avid tennis player and played competitively into his early 70s and playing casually until his late 70s. He was also a skilled woodworker and lovingly crafted many beautiful pieces for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In 2001, Wayne’s first wife of 30 years, Marilyn Marshall, died of cancer. She was the mother of three girls when they married and they had a son together, Wayne II. In 2002, Wayne married Marie, who had three grown daughters, and along with his three children, they enjoyed a wonderful family life.

Wayne is survived by his sister, Laura Fury of Jeffersonville, IN; stepdaughters, Kimberly C. Harrell of Marietta, GA, and Wendy Pritchett of Loganville, GA; son, Wayne M. Wills II of Sandy Springs, GA; his former wife, Marie Wills; nephew, Gary Wills; grandchildren, Kristen, Madeline, Emily and Anna; and three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, William Wills; wife, Marilyn Marshall Wills; and son, Jeffrey Campbell. H

SAMUEL BAEZ ’57

Captain Samuel Baez, CHC, USN (Ret.), died on 25 February 2023 at his home in Waterford, CT. “Sam” was born in El Paso, TX, on 31 March 1932. Because of his father’s ministry with the Presbyterian church, the family lived in Texas, Colorado, California, New Mexico and Arizona. Sam graduated high school in Marion, IA, in 1950 as president of his class. Enlisted in the Marine Corps, he received a congressional appointment to the Naval Academy. After a year at NAPS, he entered with the Class of 1957. During his involvement with activities at the chapel, he decided to enter ministry, resigned his commission, and completed his studies at Macalester College (1957) and Princeton Theological Seminary (1960).

Ordained as a Presbyterian minister, he reentered military service joining the Navy Chaplain Corps in 1961. Assignments took him to Newport, San Diego, Iwakuni and Atsugi, Japan, and Soc Trang and Danang, Vietnam, in the fall of 1962, where he conducted services for the first Marine casualties of that war. Service followed at Camp Pendleton; SubBase Groton; Puerto Rico; Third Naval District in Manhattan; the Holland in Rota, Spain; Coast Guard Base Governor’s Island, NY; Newport Advanced Course; Okinawa; the Fulton in New London; and El Toro MCAS, where he retired with 28 years of service to his credit.

His tennis racquet had traveled the world with him with wins at several service tournaments and was the basis of many friendships abroad and locally. A natural talent led him to produce art works in various media. He authored three books: a novel, a personal memoir and a children’s book. He enjoyed fishing in the Niantic River, played some golf and felt himself blessed by his retirement years.

Sam had a continuing respect for the Naval Academy, and in retirement served for several years as a Blue & Gold officer in southeastern Connecticut. He and his wife acted as parent sponsors for cadets at the Coast Guard Academy. In 2014, Sam was inducted into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame.

Sam is survived by Marianne, his wife of 60 years; sons, John (Katherine) and Michael (Cynthia); and three grandsons, John Jr., Mason and Braxton. He was predeceased by all six of his siblings, and his son, Peter. His son, Robert “Bobby,” passed away in May 2023.

A memorial service was held at the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, CT. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery. H

JAMES HARRY MURPHY ’57

Commander James H. Murphy, USN (Ret.), passed away on 15 November 2023 in Miami, OK.

Born on 10 April 1935, in Akron, OH, to George and Margarite (Cook) Murphy, “Jim” attended Oklahoma Military Academy before entering the Naval Academy.

He graduated with the Class of 1957 a member of the First Company. After two and a half years on a destroyer, he attended Submarine School. His storied 23-year naval career in the submarine service ended with his retirement at the rank of commander.

After his retirement, he joined BF Goodrich in Miami, OK, as plant manager, until its closing in 1986. On closing day, he assumed duties as the plant manager of the Fort Howard Paper Company and relocated to Muskogee, OK. After retiring again, he and his wife, Courtney, relocated to the Coves on Grand Lake, OK, where he could often be found playing golf.

In retirement, Jim and Courtney traveled to Florida and California annually to visit their children and grandchildren. They loved to travel, took cruises and attended his 30th, 45th, 47.5 and 50th USNA Class reunions.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, George and Margarite Murphy; his wife, Courtney (Bagby) Murphy; and his brother, Jack Murphy.

Survivors include his children, James H. Murphy Jr. (and his wife, Pam) of Melbourne, FL, David Murphy of Miami, OK, and George Murphy of Reno, NV; sister, Katie Burns (and her husband, John); and four grandchildren, Jack Michael Murphy, Brian Murphy, Daniel Murphy and Melissa Murphy.

Jim wished to be cremated and no services are planned at this time.

Friends and family may send the family notes of encouragement online at (www.brown-winters.com). H

HARRY WAGNER KONKEL ’58

Captain Harry W. Konkel, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 6 January 2024 at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born on 11 July 1935 in Jackson, WY, to Maurice and Beatrice Helen “Nelle” Wagner. Harry graduated from Jackson-Wilson High School in Jackson, WY, with the class of 1953 and studied at the University of Wyoming for one year before attending the Naval Academy, where he graduated in 1958. He later earned a BS in Electrical Engineering at the Naval Postgraduate School, and an MA at the Naval War College.

Harry met Susan Donnell at a holiday party in Findlay, OH, during his 1958 holiday leave. They were married in June 1960.

Harry commanded two destroyers and a destroyer tender. Throughout his Navy career, Harry’s family accompanied him to his various duty stations. He received the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal w/Gold Star and Navy Commendation Medal w/Gold Star (2).

After retirement in 1985, the family returned to Findlay, and then to Portland, ME, in 1987. Harry loved celebrating milestone occasions: from an Army-Navy game with USNA alumni, birthday dinners at favorite restaurants, to ringing in the holidays and the blooming of the spring orchids with friends and neighbors.

For a man whose calling was to be a naval officer, he was equally esteemed for his listening skills and emotional acumen, which fostered trust, lifelong friendships and the helping of others in need. Harry, Susan and their children continued the Donnell family’s philanthropy to causes they cared about deeply. Local charities include Maine Medical Center, Maine Cancer Foundation, the Portland Museum of Art, Mercy Hospital, Portland Symphony and Portland Stage. Nationally, Harry was a loyal benefactor of Ducks Unlimited, the Naval Academy and the Naval Institute.

He served on the board of trustees of the Gunston School (Centreville, MD), Gould Academy (Bethel, ME), Portland Museum of Art and the Humane Society (Findlay, OH). More recently, Harry served as a national director of the Navy League of the United States, president of the Osher Library Associates, Osher Map Library, and as a USNA Blue and Gold officer.

Harry leaves behind his beloved daughter, Susie Konkel of Cape Elizabeth, ME. He was predeceased by his wife, Susan, and their son, James.

To his dear friends, shipmates and fellow community leaders, Harry would salute and bid you fair winds and following seas to bring you back safely to your loved ones. H

FREDERICK CHARLES ANDERSON ’59

Colonel Frederick C. Anderson, USAF (Ret.), passed due to complications from pulmonary fibrosis in Warner Robins, GA, on 30 October 2023. He was 86 years old.

“Fred” was born on 23 October 1937 in Johnstown, PA, and grew up in the small coal mining town of Revloc, PA. He excelled academically and athletically at Ebensburg Cambria High School in Ebensburg, PA, and received a congressional appointment to the Naval Academy. He was one of the best pitchers in college baseball during his time as a three-year varsity baseball player, member of the chapel choir and served as battalion representative as a member of the 19th Company.

He graduated with the Class in June of 1959, and received a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. He married his high school sweetheart, Rebecca Jane Jones. He served the Air Force through nine duty stations, including a tour in Thailand during the Vietnam War and one later as base commander at Robins AFB, Georgia. He worked in aircraft maintenance and as a logistician, held command positions at every rank (but one) and completed a distinguished 23-year Air Force career. He retired in 1982 at the rank of colonel.

Post-military, he worked briefly in the financial and insurance fields, and then as a math instructor at Middle Georgia Technical College until his second retirement in 1999. He often remarked that he wanted to be remembered as someone who was always concerned about the welfare of the troops, and later of his students.

Colonel Anderson leaves behind a legacy of service, commitment, courage, humor and love. He was not only a dedicated husband and father, but also a cherished Papa. He lived a very full and happy life and left peacefully on his terms surrounded by his children.

Fred was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Becky, in 2022. They are survived by four children, Fred II, Jeff (USAFA ’84), Leslie and Lara; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was held in his honor on 22 November 2023. Inurnment for Fred and Becky Anderson will take place at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church columbarium (Warner Robins, GA) in the Spring of 2024.

The Anderson Family H

JACOB BOLTZ ’59

Commander Jacob Boltz, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 29 December 2023 in Virginia Beach, VA.

“Jake” was born on 30 June 1936, in Pottsville, PA. Upon graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve and attended Wyoming Seminary prep school in Kingston, PA. After graduating and completing one year in the Navy Reserve, he was discharged and received an appointment to the Naval Academy. As a member of the Class of 1959, he spent the first two years as a member of the Eighth Company and ended his time in Annapolis with the 21st Company. He married his

high school sweetheart, Geraldine “Jerry” DiTullio, on 6 June 1959, immediately following his USNA graduation.

He attended the Naval Supply School in Athens, GA, and following successful completion of his training, was assigned to LAFFEY (DD-724) as supply officer. He then transferred to shore duty for a short stint and then went on to become the supply officer on VULCAN (AR-5). He attended the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, graduating in 1973. From there, he went on to shore tours in Battle Creek, MI, and Norfolk, VA, finally finishing his naval career at the Navy Yard in Washington, DC.

He continued working as a defense contractor for several companies, including Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, where he provided logistics support for the Spanish and Japanese navies, supporting their combat ship construction programs. He finally retired for good in June 2006.

Jake was preceded in death by his wife, Jerry. He is survived by their three sons (and daughters-in-law), Jacob M. Boltz, James V. Boltz (Julie) and Daniel J. Boltz (Melinda); and six loving grandchildren, Taherai, Ethan, Jake, DJ, Katie and Dominic. He also leaves a large tightknit group of best friends he’d known since grade school in rural Pennsylvania.

A committal service will be held at the Naval Academy Columbarium at a future date.

Condolences may be left for the family at (www.hollomonbrown.com).

JB ’59 H

ROBERT LAWSON MANLY ’59

Robert L. Manly died on 1 January 2024 at the age of 87.

“Bob” was born in 1936 to Arthur MacArthur Lawson and Grace Hall Wyatt in Coconut Grove, FL. After the death of his father, his mother married Charles Wishard Manly, who adopted Bob. After graduating from Coral Gables High School in 1954, he attended the University of Florida, where he joined Kappa Alpha fraternity. He then accepted an appointment to the United States Naval Academy, as a member of the 18th Company.

He graduated with the Class of 1959. After attending Navy Supply Corps School, he served aboard ERNEST G. SMALL (DDR-838), followed by two years at the Bureau of Supply and Accounts (BUSANDA) in Washington, DC.

After resigning his commission in June 1963, he attended the University of Florida College of Law, where he was executive editor of the Law Review and a member of the moot court team. It was at law school that he met the love of his life, Felicia Lewis Manly. After graduating with honors, he and Felicia were married in December 1965. He joined the law firm Ackerman LLP in Orlando, FL, and practiced law there for 33 years. He and Felicia were blessed with three sons.

After retiring from the practice of law in 1999, he and Felicia enjoyed cruising with friends, motorhoming across the U.S. and Canada for five years, and then bought a vacation cabin in the mountains of North Carolina. He was an active member of Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church, including serving on the vestry, and as a licensed Eucharistic minister. He was a member of The Country Club of Orlando, where he and Felicia enjoyed playing golf.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Felicia; and their three sons, Robby, Kenny and Chuck. He is survived by his first cousins, Tom Wyatt, Barbara Olsen (Clark) and Jon Wyatt; and his second cousin, Ruth DeVries (Adam) and her children, Grace and Michael.

A celebration of his life was held at Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church in Orlando, FL, on 20 January 2024.

Memorial contributions in Bob’s name may be made to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2499 N. Westmoreland Drive, Orlando, FL 32804 (www.stmichaelschurch.com) or a charity of one’s choice.

RLM ’59 H

ROBERT HOUSTON MCLEOD ’59

“Bob” McLeod, 87, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Perry Hill on 5 November 2023. Born in Barre City, VT, on 10 October 1936, he was the son of the late William A. McLeod and Rebecca (Houston) McLeod. Bob graduated from Montpelier High School in 1954. He attended St. Lawrence University before being appointed to the Naval Academy. At Annapolis, he was a proud member of the 18th Company and graduated with the “Rise and Shine” Class of 1959.

Bob joined the fleet as a Surface Warfare Officer, serving aboard LAFFEY (DD-724) and CONSTELLATION (CVA-64).

Leaving the Navy in 1963, he returned to his beloved Vermont to begin a varied and successful business career. He spent over 50 years working in real estate in Central Vermont, building a fulfilling career where he connected deeply with people.

He was a long-time member of Waterbury Congregational Church, where he served as a trustee and in countless other capacities. Probably the only thing he didn’t do was sing in the choir! He was a member of Rotary International and served as director, vice-president and president of the Waterbury Rotary. As a founding member of Revitalizing Waterbury, Bob recognized the long-term importance of creating and maintaining a vibrant downtown atmosphere.

Married on 20 June 1959, Bob was a loving and devoted husband to Norma Lois (Taylor) McLeod. In 1967, they moved into the home he designed and built on Perry Hill. He cherished their tight knit “neighborhood,” where lifelong friends became like family. The couple enjoyed a long and meaningful marriage, sharing a love for skiing, hiking, tennis and golf. Bob spent his retirement years as Norma’s faithful and dedicated caregiver.

Humble and selfless by nature, Bob’s gentle demeanor only scratched the surface of his charm. He was always amusing friends and family with his dry sense of humor and witty insights. Generous in every sense of the word, Bob was a great listener, a calming presence in any storm, and had a natural gift for making people feel comfortable and valued.

Bob is loved and mourned by his wife of 64 years, Norma; their children, Julia Garufi (Roger) and Stephen McLeod (Jodi); grandchildren, Fiona, Heather, William and Rhiannon; several nieces, nephew and grandnephews; and countless neighbors and community members.

Bob was a remarkably caring person, beloved by everyone who met him. A celebration of Bob’s life was held at Waterbury Congregational Church on 2 December 2023. H

ROBERT EUGENE TUCKER JR. ’60

Captain Robert E. Tucker Jr., USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 16 December 2023 surrounded by his family. He was 86 years old.

“Gene” was born in the Panama Canal Zone on 18 July 1937 to Colonel R.E. Tucker, USA, and Veronica (Waldron) and moved frequently during his childhood to many Army postings.

After World War II, they were stationed in Berlin, where he had fond memories and liked to use the German words he had picked up. One of his favorite residences was Anna Maria, FL, where he lived with his young siblings. After retirement, he returned yearly to Anna Maria from his Washington, DC, home, along with family and friends to enjoy watching sunsets and spending time together.

Gene was a proud graduate of the Naval Academy Class of 1960. He went on to flight training in Pensacola, FL, before becoming a test pilot at Pax River, MD. He served most of his career in the Virginia Beach area flying F-14s, then commanding fighter squadrons, ultimately serving as commanding officer of SYLVANIA (AFS-2) and CORAL SEA (CVE-57).

In Gene’s military career, he flew 6,186 hours while making 1,284 carrier arrested landings, (367 at night). During two Vietnam combat deployments, he shot down an enemy Mig and flew 275 combat

missions. His combat awards include the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal (5) and Navy Commendation Medal (4).

When he retired from the Navy, he flew with Presidential Airways and then went on to Lockheed Martin and Thales, where he spent four years working on the design of the HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH flight deck in Bristol, UK, where he enjoyed a good pub crawl.

Above all, Gene loved spending time with and entertaining his family and friends. He was the patriarch of his extended family and always made sure to take care of everyone and keep them laughing.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dolly (Hauck) Tucker; children, Leslie Tucker, R.E. “Bob” Tucker III, Whitney Hauck Wood and Stephen Hauck; five grandchildren, R.E. “Tucker” Tucker IV, Ryan Tucker, Lieutenant Cooper Wood, USN, Emma Wood and Sarah Hauck; his former wife, Alice Tucker; sister, Anne Fister; and many nieces, nephews and cousins, all of whom he loved dearly.

Gene’s burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery on Monday, 6 May 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

Donations may be made in Gene’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org). H

CHARLES ROLAND DENNEY JR. ’61

Charles R. Denney Jr. passed away peacefully on 21 December 2023 in Walnut Creek, CA. He was 85 years old.

Born in Everett, WA, “Chuck” was the eldest son of Charles and Edith Denney. He attended Everett High School, where he played basketball and ran track. Then on to the University of Washington for a year before receiving his appointment to the Naval Academy, where he was a member of the Class of 1961, 15th Company. With his sights set on naval aviation upon graduation, he instead ended up in the Silent Service.

His first tour was on REDFISH (SS-395) from 1963- 1966; followed by a tour on TUNNY (SS-282) from 1966-1967. He had a decorated naval career that culminated in the rank of lieutenant commander. During this time, he met Mary Bonita Baron and they were married on 2 May 1964.

Following his discharge from the Navy in 1968, they settled in Walnut Creek, CA. Chuck earned his MBA from Golden Gate University in 1971. He went on to work for Fiberboard, C&H Sugar and as a realtor. He was a dedicated husband, father, brother, grandfather, naval officer, coach and friend.

Upon retirement, he enjoyed his time with family, watching and playing sports, traveling, golf, SIRS events and poker with friends. He will be remembered most fondly for his quick wit and love of family.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary; sisters, Mary Jeffers and Anne McGary; children, Michael Baron Denney (Lisa), Patricia Lynn Denney and Kathleen Marie Cefalu (Joseph); along with six grandchildren, Itzy, Leslie, Tommy, Michael, Christina and Emily. He was predeceased by his brother, John, and brother in-law, Nick.

A celebration of life was held on 8 January 2024, followed by interment at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. H

STEPHEN KENT CHADWICK ’62

Rear Admiral Stephen K. Chadwick, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 18 January 2024 in Lubbock, TX.

“Steve” was raised in Birmingham, AL, and graduated from Phillips High School. As a senior in high school, and with parental support, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve, leaving for Parris Island the day after graduation.

After a year at Birmingham Southern College, he was selected to attend the Naval Academy, graduating with the Class of 1962.

Upon graduation, he reported to GEARING (DD-710) and participated in the blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In later sea tours, he served as weapons officer in EVANS (DE-1023) and as commanding

officer of the minesweeper WARBLER (MSC-206) homeported in Sasebo, Japan, and participated in several Market Time patrols in Vietnam. Returning from Japan, he served as a junior officer detailer, which gave him the opportunity to detail himself to the Naval Postgraduate School. After Monterey, he served as a combat advisor to the South Vietnamese Navy in the Uh Mihn Forest of the Mekong Delta.

After returning from Vietnam, he served as executive officer in JONAS INGRAM (DD-438) and then commissioning commanding officer in PETERSON (DD 969). For his command of PETERSON, he was awarded the Navy League’s John Paul Jones Award for Inspirational Leadership. He would later command Destroyer Squadron 36, deploying to the eastern Mediterranean, where he coordinated gunfire support during the crisis in Lebanon. After major command, he reported for one of the shortest Pentagon tours in history and in an obvious attempt to provide inspiration to the academic bottom 20% of the Brigade classes, he was selected to serve as the Naval Academy’s 71st Commandant of Midshipmen, which he described as “the most demanding and rewarding” tour of his career. His flag tours included duty as PERS 4, Head Detailer and Commander, Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific/Naval Base Pearl Harbor.

Following retirement in 1990, he served as president and CEO of PRODESCO Inc., a technology company that provides specialty textiles to the chemical and aerospace industries. Under his leadership, PRODESCO formed a wholly owned subsidiary, Secant Medical, which provides textile-based structures for implantable medical devices. He served in that role until his second retirement in 2013.

His is survived by his wife of 59 years, Maureen; daughter, Betsy Kasemsri; and his sons, RDML Robb Chadwick ’91, USN (Ret.) and Dr. Jon Chadwick ’93, CDR, MC, USN (Ret.); and nine grandchildren. H

LEIGHTON WARREN SMITH JR. ’62

Admiral Leighton W. Smith Jr., USN (Ret.), passed away at his home in Pinehurst, NC, on 28 November 2023 at the age of 84.

Leighton, known to friends and his Navy colleagues as “Snuffy,” was born in Mobile, AL, in 1939. Snuffy attended the University of Alabama and later entered the Naval Academy, where the Lucky Bag referred to him as, “a gentleman in every sense of the word.”

Snuffy overcame close calls with the academic board, graduated with his class and reported to Pensacola, receiving his naval aviator Wings of Gold in 1964.

Snuffy primarily piloted the A-4 Skyhawk and A-7 Corsair II light attack aircraft during his operational flying career. His wartime service during the Vietnam conflict included three lengthy deployments and over 280 combat missions. He subsequently held command at sea at the squadron and wing levels, as well as major commands that included the replenishment ship KALAMAZOO (AOR-6), the aircraft carrier AMERICA (CV-66), and service as Commander, Carrier Group Six as a flag officer. Admiral Smith logged more than 4,200 flying hours and accumulated well over a thousand carrier-arrested landings.

Admiral Smith’s flag staff assignments included serving as director of operations for the U.S. European Command during a critical period in Europe, which saw the fall of the Berlin Wall and end of the Cold War. His Pentagon service as the Navy’s Chief of Operations and Plans provided the opportunity to introduce the power projection strategy known as “From the Sea…” He received the rank of admiral in 1994 and was appointed Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Commander-in-Chief of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s Allied Forces Southern Europe. In 1995, he assumed command of the NATO-led Implementation Force (IFOR) in Bosnia. He retired in 1996.

Admiral Smith’s service was recognized with numerous awards including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster and the Distinguished Flying Cross with Gold Star. His NATO service was recognized by several Allied nations, including Hungary and

France. Admiral Smith was made an Honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (invested by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom in February 1997).

Admiral Smith met his future wife, Dorothy “Dottie” McDowell during his Plebe year. A Midshipman-career courtship led to Dottie and Snuffy marrying after graduation in 1962. Following his Navy career, Snuffy and Dottie found home harbor in Pinehurst, NC, where he remained active in national and military affairs, while also leading an active business life as a senior consultant and member of several corporate boards.

Snuffy served the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and the Naval Academy community as chairman of the USNAAA Board of Trustees for six years during a key time of transition for the Association. In 2004, he was appointed to the USNA Board of Visitors by President Bush. Admiral Smith was recognized by the Alumni Association as a Distinguished Graduate in 2007.

Admiral Smith is survived by his spouse, Dottie; son, Leighton Smith (Marissa); daughters, Page Lewis (Llewellyn ’90) and Captain Dorothy “DeeDee” Smith; as well as five grandchildren, Taylor, Chase, David, Andrew and Morgan.

Admiral Smith’s funeral service will take place at the Naval Academy Chapel on 19 April 2024, followed by burial at the Naval Academy Cemetery on Hospital Point.

The Tailhook Educational Foundation has established a scholarship in Admiral Smith’s honor. The inaugural awardee will be announced in August 2024 at Hook ’24. Donations in support may be made at (www.tailhook.net/donate-now). Please note “Snuffy” or Leighton Smith.

An expanded obituary is available at (www.tinyurl.com/leighton-smith). H

DONALD EDWARD WATKINS ’62

Captain Donald E. Watkins, USN (Ret), passed away on 23 September 2023. Surrounded by family, he succumbed to the complications of Parkinson’s disease.

“Don” was born in East Los Angeles, CA, on 1 October 1940, to Bill and Eunice Watkins. He graduated from Montebello High School in 1958, where he was on two championship football teams and was active in student government. In 2014, he was inducted into the Montebello High School Hall of Fame.

Upon his graduation from the United States Naval Academy in 1962, he was selected for Admiral Rickover’s Submarine Nuclear Power School program. After completion of training, he reported to JAMES MONROE (SSBN-622), followed by SNOOK (SSN-592) for an overhaul and a WestPac deployment. He subsequently attended the Naval Postgraduate School, where he obtained an MS in financial management in 1970. He then served on HENRY CLAY (SSBN-625) as navigator and afterwards returned to JAMES MONROE as executive officer. He was then assigned to ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN-631) as prospective commanding officer (Gold Crew), assuming command in 1979.

Captain Watkins’ post command tours included Director of Submarine Security for the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Submarine Warfare; Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations and Strategic Plans, Submarine Group Five; Senior Submarine Inspector for the Pacific Board of Inspection and Survey; and finally, comptroller at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo.

His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal with three Gold Stars and the Navy Commendation Medal with Gold Star.

After active duty, he served in nuclear waste disposal at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant for the U.S. Department of Energy, in Carlsbad, NM; and for SAIC and Bechtel at the Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Repository.

In retirement, he was active playing tennis, traveling every continent and enjoying family activities as a devoted grandfather. He served many years with the RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol) for Diamond Gateway, treasurer for his HOA and was a faithful member of Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church choir, as well as the Savvy Travelers board.

Distinguished Graduate Award Recipient 2007

Don is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Sharon; their three children, Michael, Laurie Ann and Gregory; plus six grandchildren, Justin, Caitlin, Kayvon, Lucas, Abigail and Layla.

Celebration of Life services took place at Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church, followed by inurnment at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, CA. H

DAVID JAMES EBERT ’63

David J. Ebert, son of Christian Ebert and Grace May Ebert, died at his home in Annapolis, MD, on 30 June 2023 after a brief illness. He was 82 years old.

“Dave” was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, and attended North Allegheny Senior High School. He went on to graduate from the Naval Academy with the Class of 1963, 22nd Company. While there, he met his future wife, Lynn Neugent, at a Carvel Hall dance on King George Street, just outside Gate One. Dave and Lynn were married on 8 June 1963, immediately following Commissioning Week. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary three weeks before his death.

Dave was stationed in Norfolk, VA, aboard EATON and Newport, RI, aboard WILKINSON. He attended Anti-Submarine Warfare School in Key West, FL. He graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering in 1973. Dave worked at the U.S. naval station in Annapolis for 42 years with the Joint Spectrum Center as a research engineer.

Dave loved gardening, daily walks, following the stock market and supporting his grandchildren in their activities. He was well known for his dry sense of humor and his love of music. He was a proud supporter of the Boy Scouts of America and enjoyed watching Navy football and spending time with his many friends among Naval Academy alumni.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn; daughters, Cynthia Russo (Brian) and Lori Miller (Jeffery); and grandchildren, Payton, Alexander, Hailey, Eric, Tristan and McKenna.

His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he was always excited to share their interests. The neighborhood will miss Dave on his nightly walks while sharing the harvest from his vegetable garden. He was loved by many and will be missed by all.

A Celebration of Life was held on 30 July 2023 at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Annapolis and inurnment took place at the Naval Academy Columbarium on 3 August 2023.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org), the Boy Scouts of America (www.scouting.org) or a charity of your choice. H

DAVID NELSON HULL ’63

Captain David N. Hull, USN (Ret.), 84, died on 2 December 2023 amidst family in Longmont, CO. “Dave” was born on 13 July 1939 in Syracuse, NY, to Francis and Adrienne Hull, moving with his family to Lancaster, PA, where he enjoyed a productive youth, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Dave spent two years at Penn State studying engineering, participating in gymnastics, wrestling and NROTC.

Appointed to USNA, Dave promptly applied his experience, helping hapless crewmates “learn the ropes” during Plebe Summer. Dave mastered academics, competed fiercely as a varsity wrestler, contended always for #1 in Class PT and again, aided classmates by coaching them in PT program gymnastic mandates. Dave graduated proudly with the Class of 1963 as a member of the 20th Company.

A special lady from Lancaster, PA, was often a welcome Yard visitor. Thus, Dave and his high school sweetheart, Ruth McLain, were married on graduation day, departing under arched swords to San Diego and 60 years of loving and selfless marriage.

Dave craved engineering duty, and after two years at sea, was accepted into the Civil Engineering Corps, and detailed to the University of Michigan for a master’s degree in electrical engineering. Subsequent duty stations took them to Taiwan, the Philippines, San Diego, Port Hueneme, Port Mugu, Kings Bay and Washington, DC. A passion for travel generated visits to many world destinations including Spain, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Polynesia, India, Namibia and Botswana.

Dave retired from active duty in 1989 and was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptional professional achievement.

Four years of the rugged life began for Ruthie and Dave in Brian Head, UT, hiking, cross-country skiing and exploring Mountain-West. Dave began a second career in Milton, FL, for several years in the 1990s, supporting industrial clients. A third career involved his creation of MMS Corporation, consulting in business process analysis and reengineering for large, distributed enterprises. Dave and Ruthie embraced retirement in the new century, settling to enjoyable life in Las Cruces, NM. They moved to Colorado in 2020 to be close to their daughter, Coralie, and family.

Dave was a lover of life, family, travel, outdoor life and the many people he encountered worldwide. Particularly, he loved his lifetime sweetheart, Ruthie, and their shared adventures.

Dave is survived by his wife, Ruthie; daughter, Coralie (Jess); grandsons, Ethan and Bennett; and sisters, Coralie Werking and Julie Ray.

Tom Robertson ’63 & the Hull Family H

GLENN PAUL LAURY ’63

Commander Glenn P. Laury, USNR (Ret.), passed away peacefully in his home in Palm Coast, FL, on 12 November 2023, having fought a courageous and heroic battle with Parkinson’s disease, resulting from his exposure to Agent Orange during his service in Vietnam.

Glenn was born in Lehighton, PA, on 4 July 1940 to Doris (Miller) and Paul E. Laury. He graduated from Upper Darby High School, and completed an additional year at Bullis Academy, graduating with honors (1959).

Glenn was a member of the Naval Academy Class of 1963, Fifth Battalion, Ninth Company. He served for four years as a tenor in the chapel choir and was an avid intramural wrestler.

Glenn was commissioned as a Navy ensign on 5 June 1963 following his graduation from USNA. As a naval aviator, he piloted S2 Trackers in Vietnam. He ended his active service as a flight instructor in Training Squadron Five, in Milton, FL, and immediately joined the Naval Reserve.

His decorations include the Vietnam Service Medal (One Star), the Aviation Safety Award and the National Defense Service Medal. Glenn retired on 4 July 2000.

Glenn attended Rutgers Graduate School of Business and received his MBA (1971). He also secured the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (1987).

Working initially at CitiBank in New York City, he subsequently was recruited by the Menke Group, a California based investment banking firm, serving as vice president and head of their East Coast division.

Glenn served as a member of the vestry at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Basking Ridge, NJ. He also served as a mentor and counsellor with the Volusia/Flagler Chapter of SCORE. He headed up the Flagler County team for Marco Rubio’s initial senatorial campaign and ultimately was elected to the Flagler County Republican Executive Committee.

Predeceased by his first wife, Claire McCormick Laury, in 1987, Glenn married Deborah Bowden Laury in 1988. They were happily and joyfully married for 35 years. Debbie deeply mourns his passing.

Glenn is survived Debbie; his sister, Barbara Little; daughter (with Claire), Cynthia Gail Laury Dahl; and grandchildren, Nicholas and Brenden.

A Celebration of Life with full military honors was held on 12 December 2023 at St. James Episcopal Church in Ormond Beach, FL.

Memorials may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation (www.parkinson. org), or the Michael J. Fox Foundation (www.michaeljfox.org).

Rest in Peace, Dearest Glenn. H

WILLIAM JOSEPH OPITZ ’63

William J. Opitz died 21 November 2023 of kidney complications, surrounded by loved ones at his Helena, MT, home.

“Bill” was born 22 June 1941 to Elmer and Lola Opitz in Missoula, MT, where he excelled in youthful activities and worked at the family butcher shop. A class leader at Loyola High School, he starred as shrine-game quarterback, All-State basketballer and shot-put champion. At USNA, he commanded the First Battalion and graduated with the Class of 1963 as Second Company Commander. Admired by fellow midshipmen, Bill was tough competition on the court/field, and craftily was assigned to try wrangling Joe Bellino practicing punt returns.

After Nuclear Power School, Bill landed a lifetime catch in 1964 by marrying Judy Schureman in Idaho Falls, ID. At New London, CT, Bill qualified in submarines and served in JAMES K. POLK (SSBN-645). He was known for professional excellence and standing tall for his men, completing active duty in 1970 teaching officers at Submarine School.

Bill, Judy, Kim and David moved to Idaho to help Judy’s family through two potato harvests, returning to Missoula for grad school at the University of Montana. Bill worked his way to an MBA while working as a butcher, using brawn and skills developed during youth.

In 1974, Bill and Judy moved their prospering family to Helena, where he took an executive position in state government. This led to governor recruitment as Deputy Director Health and Environmental Services. Bill resisted persuasions to pursue elected office, remaining firm as his own man, serving fellow citizens and earning the admiration of his employees.

Bill had a passion for the outdoors; hunting, fishing and boating with family and pals. Autumn found him chasing elk over rough terrain near the Continental Divide, fish and game always plentiful in the freezer. Never one to shy from a card game, Bill was ever the gracious winner. Folks could see John Wayne in this sturdy Montanan, full of spirit and manliness.

Bill cherished his retirement with family, friends and the Yuma winter-haven he enjoyed with the love of his life for 59 years, the ultimate yin to his yang, Judy. She survives, along with their daughter, Kim Stenberg (Dave) of Kalispell; son, David (Trish) of Missoula; five grandchildren; brother, Jim (Patty); sister, Mary; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services occurred 2 December 2023 in Helena, followed by interment at Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery on 4 December.

Tom Robertson ’63 & The Opitz Family H

ROBERT JOSEPH CEPEK ’64

Captain Robert J. Cepek, USN (Ret.), unexpectedly departed on his last deployment in Arnold, MD, on 14 September 2023.

“Bob” was born in Brookfield, IL, on 14 February 1942 to Jack and Edna Cepek, graduating from Lyons Township High School in Brookfield, IL.

Bob graduated from the Naval Academy with a BS in Oceanography with his 12th Company in 1964. While at USNA, Bob met Diane while on leave in Chicago and they were wed in June 1965.

Realizing his dream of being a Surface Warfare Officer, Bob reported to BERKELEY (DDG-15) in Long Beach, CA, and follow on tour on TAUSSIG (DD-746) in Newport, RI. His first shore tour was at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, where he earned a MS in Oceanography. After NPS, Bob left for one of his most memorable tours as a naval advisor in Ethiopia. Upon his return, Bob served as executive officer on CARPENTER (DD-825) in San Francisco, CA.

Bob’s senior naval career took him back to USNA as a chemistry professor and Director of Professional Development and then had a tour in the Surface Warfare OpNav shop. Bob then commanded BLANDY

(DD-943) and PHARRIS (FF-1094), during which he deployed to the Mediterranean Sea. Since roots had been put down since 1976 in Arnold, MD, Bob chose another OpNav tour in DC.

Bob’s major command tour was ComDesRon 15 in Yokosuka, Japan, where he deployed several times on MIDWAY (CV-41). Bob completed another Pentagon tour and returned to Yokosuka as the Seventh Fleet Chief of Staff. Bob’s last assignment in the Navy was on the staff of the Inspector General before retiring in 1994.

From 1994 to 2016, Bob worked for Northrop Grumman, Johns Hopkins APL and as a government civilian championing the development and deployment of undersea surveillance systems for the U.S. Navy.

After his second retirement, Bob was active in the Protestant church at the Naval Academy Chapel and as a USNA tour guide. Since 1976, Bob and Diane served as sponsors for many midshipmen whom Bob mentored over the years.

Bob is survived by his wife of 58 years, Diane; son, Bob ’89; daughter, Carolyn; and five grandchildren, Cameron, Kyle, Austin, Gabriella and Alexandra.

A memorial service is scheduled for 15 April 2024 at the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel, followed by interment at the USNA Columbarium.

The Cepek Family H

ROBERT MILLER SILVERT JR. ’64

Commander Robert M. Silvert Jr., USNR (Ret.), passed after a lengthy illness in Allentown, PA, on 15 November 2023. He was 84 years old.

“Bob” was born on 8 June 1939 to the late Robert M. Silvert Sr. and Ethel M. (Shelhamer) Silvert. After graduating from Allentown High School, he enlisted in the Navy at age 17. He stood first in his Submarine School and Electronic Technician classes and, after NAPS, came to the Naval Academy with the Class of 1964 as an ET2(SS). He had qualified in submarines aboard STERLET (SS-392). At USNA, he was in the Fourth Company, was elected as Honor Representative, served on the Hop Committee and Sailing Squadron, and chaired the Christmas Card Committee.

After graduation, he served on BLENNY (SS-324) and SALMON (SS-573) in direct support of the Vietnam War; CLAMAGORE (SS-343); the Naval Postgraduate School; and Submarine Flotilla One (San Diego).

After leaving active duty, he served in the Submarine Reserves, including duty as acting commanding officer of ComSubRon 2-213 in Chicago, retiring as a commander. His active and reserve service stretched over 34 years.

Bob held a number of management consulting positions with several firms, including Cresap/Towers Perrin, Wass Consulting Group Inc. and Koenig Associates. Early on, he held a management position with UPS in North Carolina.

He was a member of the American Legion and VFW, and anything related to computers was of interest to him. Bob was a quiet leader, always looking to be helpful and supportive to anyone and everyone. Bob always faced life challenges with understanding and persistence, along with a strong determination to resolve them.

Bob was the devoted husband of Susan Bianco Silvert, the love of his life. They celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary in October 2023, having spent 25 years together in a loving relationship. Sue brought great happiness to Bob’s life, which he richly deserved. He is survived by his wife, Susan; and sons, Scott M. Silvert and Brian R. Silvert. He was predeceased by his brother, Thomas C. Silvert; and sister, Diana E. Parsons. A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Donations in Bob’s memory may be made to the Naval Academy Foundation (www.usna.com/give). H

DOUGLAS ROGER POWELL ’65

Doug Powell passed away on 13 September 2023. He was 80 years old.

A native of Colorado, he graduated from Sheridan Union High School in 1961 before entering the Naval Academy. At Annapolis, Doug enjoyed wrestling and was a member of the 12th Company during First Class Year. Shortly after graduation, Doug married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Pat.

Doug and his family lived in a variety of places, including New London, Norfolk, Charleston, Denver, Bismarck and Reno, but Boise is where they lived the longest. After the children grew, he and Pat then lived in Boston, West Palm Beach, Reno, Hong Kong and Kyiv, and ultimately retired back to the Denver, CO, area.

Doug was a consummate engineer and he served on submarines until he left the Navy in the early 1970s to work in private power production. He contributed to some of the most important alternative energy projects in the United States and Asia.

Doug’s emphasis was geothermal energy production, and his last plant was the flagship project in the Salton Sea, which has become the largest source of geothermal power in North America. Over the last ten years, he worked with those producers to develop processes to remove lithium and other strategic minerals from the brine running through the plants in order to provide a reliable domestic source of lithium for the green economy. Doug was a dedicated mentor to many in the industry, and EnergySource Minerals LLC plans to name this first lithium plant in his honor.

Doug was deeply committed to his family and to his faith communities, generously giving of his time, skills and resources. He was a man of prayer, seeking to honor God in all he did. He loved biking, building things at home, and reading Louis L’Amour novels. He was intensely proud of his children and grandchildren. His last few months of life were challenging, but he was grateful for the grace to say goodbye to many he loved.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; their children, Russ and Mandy; and two granddaughters he adored, Kaylyn and Ruby.

The Powell Family H

ROBERT FRANCIS SERMIER ’65

Robert F. Sermier died on 4 December 2023 in New York City.

“Bob” was born in Saugerties, NY, to Francis Sermier and Henriette (Carrieu) Sermier on 22 April 1943. At the Naval Academy, Bob enjoyed long-distance running and contributed greatly to Navy’s track and cross-country programs. He was a member of the 22nd Company during First Class Year.

After Annapolis and his years of service in the nuclear submarine program, Bob received his MBA from Harvard Business School and began his career in public service at the Department of Health, Education and Welfare in Washington, DC, and then continued at the Human Resource Agency in New York City. He then became CFO of the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and remained a professor in the Master of Public Administration program until his retirement. In addition to his professional life, he served on the board of the Harcourt Foundation until his death.

Bob was especially gratified to be able to apply his MBA education to a career in public service. The essence of his views regarding management in public service was first conveyed to him by a former CEO and cabinet officer who summed up one of the differences between the private and public sectors as follows: “When you walk the halls late at night in the private sector, you see only the junior people. When you walk the halls late at night in the public sector, you see only the senior people.”

Bob enjoyed his homes in New York City and North Bennington, VT. He especially enjoyed his leisure time playing golf and traveling— most recently to Kyoto.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Martha Ackerman Sermier, and his brother, Edward Sermier and his family. He is also survived by the Indhur Mandhyan family and the extended Ackerman family.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of his life was held in New York City on 4 February 2024, attended by a number of his USNA classmates. H

WILLIAM BRADFORD BIRKMAIER JR. ’66

Captain William B. Birkmaier Jr., USN (Ret.), of Wayland and formerly of Lebanon, NH, passed away at home 26 September 2023. He was 79 years old.

“Bill” was the son of Catherine (Witham) Birkmaier and William B. Birkmaier Sr. A native of North Reading, MA, Bill reported to USNA in 1962, majoring in chemistry and oceanography. His was a consistent name on the Superintendent’s List and he played 17th Company and Battalion intermural squash. It was rare to find him in Bancroft Hall on Saturday night.

After graduation with the Class of 1966, Bill earned his NFO Wings in April 1967. His first assignment was as comms officer and photographernavigator in Heavy Photographic Squadron VAP-62 in the RA3B Skywarrior on aerial cartographic and photo-recon missions throughout the world, including Vietnam, until 1969.

Bill earned a master’s degree in computer science from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, in 1971.

After transitioning to the EA6B Prowler, he served as electronics countermeasures officer in Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron, VAQ-129. His next assignment was as avionics officer in VAQ-134, deploying to WestPac in CONSTELLATION (CV-64). Reassigned to VAQ-129 in 1974, flying the Expanded Capability EA6B, he was the ECM systems officer and flight instructor until 1976. Transitioning to the improved capability EA6B, Bill reported to VAQ-135 as admin officer, assistant maintenance officer, electronic warfare officer and ops officer, deploying to the Med in NIMITZ (CVN-68).

In 1979, Bill was ordered to CinCPac Staff, Pearl Harbor, HI, as command control systems analyst. Following a fourth tour with VAQ-129 in April 1982, Bill reported as executive officer of VAQ-133 and deployed to WestPac/NorPac/IO in ENTERPRISE (CVN-65). Bill assumed command of VAQ-133 in October 1983 and deployed again to WestPac/IO in ENTERPRISE

Bill was also a proven subspecialist in EW and C2 computer technology

In May 1985, Bill reported HQ USEUCom, Stuttgart, Germany, as joint reconnaissance center plans officer and chief of the Special Technical Operations Center. From 1988, until he retired, Bill served as chief of NATO Headquarters Situation Center, Brussels, Belgium.

Predeceased by his parents, Bill is survived by his lovely wife of 53 years, Laura (Lebron-Lopez) Birkmaier; their children (and spouses), William Birkmaier (Christelle), Sherry Calderon (Harold) and Cristina Birkmaier; his siblings, Karl and Mark Birkmaier, Lori O’Rourke and Lynne Heywood; and grandchildren, Skyler, Liam, Oliver, Nicholas and Luca.

Services were held 30 September 2023 at Riverside Cemetery in North Reading, MA. H

JOHN ROBERT HODDY ’66

John R. Hoddy passed from this life into eternity in heaven with Jesus on 23 November 2023 in New Jersey. He was 79 years old.

John was born on 18 May 1944 in Columbus, OH, to the late Glenn Robert and Dorothy Eloise (Livezey) Hoddy. He graduated from Hamilton Township High School in Columbus (1962), where he was class valedictorian, played football, basketball and track & field, as well as many school organizations and clubs, distinguishing himself both athletically and academically.

He was a proud U.S Navy veteran, graduating from the Naval Academy in the Class of 1966. Trained as a nuclear engineer, he served as an officer on the submarines GATO (SSN-615) and KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN-642) during the Cold War.

Upon his discharge from active duty in 1972, John embarked on a successful four-decade career in the civilian nuclear power industry in Illinois, Connecticut, New York and Pennsylvania.

John’s Christian faith was an integral part of his life, and he participated in the churches he and his family attended as an unforgettable Sunday School teacher, Bible study leader and building and music committee member.

John’s personal interests were wide-ranging: from history to engineering, from literature and poetry to sports and music, from fishing and the outdoors, to antique hunting and restoration. He was an avid do-ityourselfer, nearly singlehandedly remodeling the family’s 1880s Victorian historical home in Fulton, NY, from top to bottom, with the witting and sometimes unwitting assistance of his two sons. In his last year, although his health challenged him significantly, John was able to rejoin his two sons and their families in New Jersey.

John will be remembered as a thoughtful and immediately generous man, full of wisdom, able to converse knowledgeably and at length on nearly any subject, and with a quick wit and indomitable sense of humor in every circumstance and even in difficulty.

He was predeceased by his parents; his first wife, Mary Ann (Peters) Hoddy; and his second wife, Billie (Behrend) Hoddy. John is survived by his sisters, Rebecca Case and Christine Smith (Burt); sons, John C. Hoddy (Michele) and Michael T. Hoddy (Grace); and two grandchildren, Christopher and Jonathan Hoddy; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on 5 December 2023 in Grove City, OH, followed by a graveside service with military honors on 6 December at Galloway Cemetery. H

JOHN MICHAEL KELLY ’66

Lieutenant Colonel John Michael Kelly, USMC (Ret.), 81, of Ashburn, VA, died on 12 October 2023 surrounded by immediate family. “Mike” was born in Norfolk, VA, on 2 July 1942 to John Curtis “Curt” Kelly ’37 and Betty Kelly, the eldest of six siblings. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, CA, in June 1960. Mike attended NAPS prior to entering the Naval Academy. He graduated in June 1966 and was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps. Following graduation, Mike married Margaret “Peggy” McKeever on 25 June 1966. After the Basic School in Quantico, VA, he earned his Wings at Pensacola, FL. Mike served at Marine Corps bases across the U.S. and overseas, the Joint Staff and in combat as a CH46 helicopter pilot in Vietnam. He demonstrated courage, calmness and professional airmanship and skill under enemy fire. Following Vietnam, Mike attended Artillery School at Fort Sill, OK, and subsequently commanded three artillery batteries. One of his favorite tours was at the Naval Academy as a leadership instructor. In addition to classroom duties, midshipmen benefited from his passion

for both aviation and sailing. Mike served as a volunteer flight instructor pilot and as an offshore racing coach for the Navy sailing team.

He was class president from 1984-1989 and retired from the Marine Corps in June 1987. His personal decorations include the Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2), Air Medal (8) and the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V.

In addition to a lengthy government and industry studies program in both the academic environment and the private sector, he earned a master’s degree in international finance from The George Washington University and an MBA from Marymount University. He worked with Alex Brown & Sons as an investment representative before joining the NASDAQ in New York as a Managing Director of Issuer Affairs.

His passions were family, sailing and aviation. He loved sailing the Chesapeake Bay and took great pleasure and joy in teaching and sharing both his knowledge and “hands on” activities with his family and friends.

Mike was predeceased by his parents and siblings, Kathy and Robert. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Peggy; daughters, Kristin Bashore and Hillary Klein; brothers, Tom and Jerry Kelly; sister, Tish Butler; and five grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass was held on 3 November 2023 with inurnment to take place later at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Kelly Family & Michael’s friends H

JAMES EDWARD KOONS ’66

“Jim” Koons unexpectedly passed away of a heart attack on 13 December 2023, in Las Cruces, NM. He was 79 years old.

Born in Tulsa, OK, on 12 October 1944, to Harold and Dorothy (Dolen) Koons, he was the youngest of three boys. Jim excelled in cross country and track, both at Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, and later at the Naval Academy.

Twelve days after graduation with the Class of 1966, he married his high school sweetheart, Evelyn Jane Logan, at New Haven Methodist Church in Tulsa, OK. Four months later, Jim was deployed to proudly serve his country with the Great 58 Seabee Battalion in the Vietnam War. He continued to be proud of his military education and service and could regularly be seen wearing USNA apparel.

Jim always excelled academically and furthered his education at the University of Michigan, where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering and became an avid Michigan Wolverines football fan. Their son, Vance, was born in Ann Arbor, MI. After returning to Annapolis to continue his military service, their son, Brian, was born. The military took the family to Meridian, MS, where Jim ended his eight years of service.

Jim’s first civilian employment with the Benham Group moved the family back to Oklahoma. Jim finalized his education by earning a Master of Business Administration. Jim continued in the facilities construction and management field at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, Ball State University in Muncie, IN, and retired in 2010 from Southern Methodist University. The pinnacle of his career was being on the team responsible for bringing the George W. Bush Presidential Library to the SMU campus.

Retirement led Jim and Jane to Las Cruces, NM, where Jim could enjoy his hobbies of hiking and golf. They were in the process of moving to Tulsa, OK, when he passed.

Jim is survived by his spouse, Jane; sons, Vance Patrick Koons (Christine) and Brian Scot Koons (Kelli); grandchildren, Nicole, Brice (fiancée, Layni), Mason and Kaitlin; his brother, Raymond Koons; sisterin-law, Sondra Koons; and Jane’s sisters, Linda Logan and Kathryn Evanson (Michael); as well as several nieces and nephews and their children. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Frank. A family memorial service will be held in Tulsa, OK.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Naval Academy Foundation (www.usna.com/give) or the American Heart Association (www.heart.org). H

WILLIAM ALLISON WOOD ’66

Captain William A. Wood, USN (Ret.), died peacefully at his home in Dunwoody, GA, of natural causes on 15 January 2024. He was 79 years old.

Will’s father had been an attack pilot in World War II, after which the family moved often. Will was active in their churches, loved God, loved the Navy and loved playing sports. At his high school in Olney, IL, he lettered in football, tennis and track.

At the Naval Academy, Will excelled in academics and never lost his great sense of humor. He was very jovial, fun to be around and popular with his 7th and 12th Company classmates.

Will’s Rickover interview was among the shortest on record (“Get out of here!”). He had an outstanding 25-year career, serving on four submarines, including engineering billets on JAMES MONROE (SSBN-622) and engineering officer of DANIEL WEBSTER (SSBN-626). After getting his MBA at the University of Michigan, Will was executive officer of PLUNGER (SSN-595). He then served on the staff of Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. In July 1982, Will became commanding officer of SILVERSIDES (SSN-679) for four years.

Will’s 51-year marriage to his loving and supportive wife, Catherine, began at Pearl Harbor, HI, in 1972. They were very proud of their daughter, Dr. Susannah Wood, who is a professor at the University of Iowa.

Will retired from the Navy in 1991 and began a 25-year career in the power generation industry. He and Catherine were very active in their church, where Will was often an inspirational Sunday School teacher.

Will loved to play golf and was an excellent golfer with many close friends at their golf club.

Will and Catherine enjoyed quite a few cruises in the Caribbean, across the Atlantic and to the Holy Land with other classmates.

Will is survived by his wife, Catherine; his daughter, Susannah; and his sister, Harriet Wood.

A memorial service for Will was held at Dunwoody (GA) Baptist Church, followed by military honors and inurnment in the church columbarium on 19 January 2024. H

FRANCIS KEVIN HOLIAN ’68

Rear Admiral “Fran” Holian, USN (Ret.), passed away at his home in San Diego, CA, on 17 November 2023. He was 78 years old.

Fran was born in Chelsea, MA, to Dorothy Thelma (née Smith) and James Joseph Holian. James’ career as a naval submariner and Mustang officer took the family to Oahu, where Fran began a lifelong love of surfing and sailing. Entering the Naval Academy in 1964, Fran’s sense of humor and ready smile forged lifelong friendships, his strong leadership instincts immediately impressed his superiors as well as his peers. He competed on the swimming and sailing teams and was twice selected to command the 31st Company. Although academics were not his strong suit, he was proud to claim that he “graduated in the top 80% of his class.”

Commissioned an ensign in June 1968, Fran embarked on a highly successful career in Surface Warfare. At sea, he had three command tours: FORTIFY (MSO-446), FLETCHER (DD-992) and FOX (CG-33). Along the way, he married his lifelong love, Carol Olney, in 1974 at Makalapa Chapel on Oahu. Ashore, Fran served as head of Navy congressional liaison to the Defense Appropriations Committees, where he worked closely with senior naval and congressional leaders. Selected for flag rank in 1991, Fran was assigned as Commander Naval Base San Diego followed by Commander Training, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

His awards include the Legion of Merit (4,) Meritorious Service Medal (2) Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V.

After retiring from the Navy in 1996, Fran joined Northrop Grumman Corporation, serving as a vice president in Annapolis, MD. Fran entered

“active retirement” in 2007, moving back to San Diego and joining the boards of directors of the former Naval Training Center (now Liberty Station), United Through Reading and the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

Fran was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Dot; and brothers, Jimmy and Jack. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carol; daughters, Mara Lowry (and her husband, Adam) of Mill Valley, CA, and Kelly Duncan (and her husband, John Mark) of Seattle, WA; granddaughters, Kenning, Ryan and Hattie; and grandson, William.

A Celebration ofLife is planned for Spring of 2024.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to United Through Reading (www.unitedthroughreading.org); the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org); or a charity of your choice. H

WILLIAM JOSEPH LAZ JR. ’69

Captain William J. Laz, USN (Ret.), died of pancreatic cancer in Virginia Beach, VA, on 4 January 2024.

Born on the “mighty, muddy banks of the Fox River” in Aurora, IL, in 1947, “Bill” attended West Aurora High School prior to receiving a SecNav appointment to the Naval Academy.

Bill “Lazer” Laz was a hard-core member of the YP Squadron, commanding the Second Battalion YP, BEER FOAM, his First Class Year. This was a precursor of his 30-year career as a Surface Warfare Officer. He graduated as a member of 10th Company.

Prior to commencing his seagoing career, Bill completed the Nuclear Propulsion pipeline via Vallejo, CA, and Idaho Falls, ID. His first assignment was as gunnery officer in CHARLES P. CECIL (DD-835), which spent months on the Vietnam gun line and sailed around the world from her homeport in Newport, RI. A string of shipboard billets followed: ENTERPRISE (CVAN-65), BARNEY (DDG-6), MISSISSIPPI (CGN-40), CARL VINSON (CVN-70), TRUXTUN (CGN-35); chief engineer, NIMITZ (CVN-68); CO, DAHLGREN (DDG-43); and his final command, in the Golden Anchor/ Battle E winning, MISSISSIPPI (CGN-40).

When Bill retired from the Navy, he had over 22 years of continuous sea duty. All his “shore” duty was neutral duty in pre-commissioning units, as commanding officer of the LantFlt Surface Nuclear Propulsion Mobil Training Team and as the senior member of the CinCLantFlt Propulsion Examining Board.

Bill went to work for Newport News Shipbuilding. He worked on the design team for the FORD (CVN-78) class, but the majority of his time was spent in research and development. Bill once again became “Lazer” as he led the NNS team that made the initial investigations into inserting laser weapons systems in the CVN-78 class. On an alternate energy task, he and his team received three patents on the Tuned Rolling Wave Energy Extractor, which turned wave energy into electricity. He also worked with NRL on a project turning salt water into diesel marine fuel.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 55 years, Marcia Laz, and their daughters, Jennifer L. Laz-Hurt, Jessica L. Laz-Smith, Allison L. Powers and Amanda A. Laz. He was so very proud of his grandchildren, Landry, Chase, Brady, Emerson, Cash, Elise and Penelope.

Funeral services were held on 15 January 2024 in Chesapeake, VA, followed by burial with full military honors on 23 January 2024 at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, VA. H

LAST CALL

FREDERIC GEORGE KRAPF III ’70

Frederic G. Krapf III passed away peacefully on 20 August 2023, after a short illness and a fall.

With three Freds in the Krapf family, the third was given the nickname, “Mickey,” as a young boy. It wasn’t until he started at The Tatnall School that he was able to regain “Fred” as his moniker. Fred thrived at Tatnall and the U.S. Naval Academy and then he added another name to his collection, “Dad.”

Under any name, he had a robust career in construction, real estate management and marine operations, but his true love was being a father.

He loved to support his children (and later, grandchildren) on the field and at the rink as spectator, coach and replay companion in their athletic games. His love of sports was unwavering. He was a player himself, but he also loved watching college football. Go Navy, Beat Army!

Fred loved to be on the water. He collected boats of all sizes, from speed boats to boats with oars, and he knew how to build and fix any kind of engine (that is until every new engine included a computer.) He was old school. His knowledge was impressive and execution meticulous. He could place even the smallest of screws with his huge hands that were like baseball mitts. Boating brought him to the places he held dear. He loved cruising the Chesapeake Bay, the Bahamas and the Florida Keys while listening to The Beach Boys.

If he couldn’t get somewhere by boat, the next choice was by airplane. He had a strong love of flying, obtaining his pilot’s license before his driver’s license. This QB was an accomplished pilot in private and corporate planes. Whether soaring in the sky or shooting the sh*t with buddies in the hangar over coffee on a Sunday morning, he loved all things pertaining to flight.

He ultimately became “Captain Granddad,” which true to Fred’s history, was shortened to “Cap.” Cap was the quintessential storybook figure for his grandsons, who provided a space for him to share his love of sports, boating and fishing.

Fred/Mickey/Dad/Cap will be remembered by his family as a straight shooter (literally and figuratively.) His family, Kristina (Larry), Winston and Harris Sullivan and Freddie Krapf (Angie) will miss him and remember his wise words: to do things because you want to, not because you are supposed to.

The Krapf Family H

WILLIAM AUGUSTINE NURTHEN II ’70

Captain William A. Nurthen II, USN (Ret.), of Ocean Township, NJ, passed peacefully, surrounded by his family, after a brief illness on 31 October 2023. He was 74.

“Bill” was born on 21 November 1948 in Philadelphia, PA, to William Augustine Nurthen and Virginia Kane (Lee) Nurthen. He cherished his childhood growing up in Ridley Park, PA, and graduated in the class of 1966 from St. James Catholic High School in Chester, PA. Bill was inducted into the St. James Wall of Honor for his lifetime career achievements.

Bill accepted an appointment to the United States Naval Academy and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering in the Class of 1970. He received a master’s degree in National Security Affairs from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. He served 27 years in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of captain before retiring in 1997. His naval career included service on surface warships, destroyer squadrons and two tours at the Pentagon. His greatest achievements included being appointed captain of VALDEZ (FF-1096) and major command at Military Sealift Command Atlantic (MSCLANT) in Bayonne, NJ.

After retiring from the Navy, Bill started a second career at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, where he worked for 17 years and held various leadership positions. He worked in World Trade Center I and

was a survivor of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. His careers with both the U.S. Navy and the Port Authority took him around the world. He loved sharing stories of his adventures with his family and friends, especially over a martini or a nice glass of wine.

Bill was a devout Catholic and parishioner at St. Jerome Church in West Long Branch, NJ. He served on the pastoral council and as a lector and eucharistic minister. Bill was truly the kindest man you could ever meet and would always send you on your way with a “God Bless You.”

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Donna Simonetti Nurthen; their five children, William Nurthen III (Jennifer), Nancy Nurthen (Jenelle), Kathleen Strongarone (Scott), Jeanne Jones (Kevin) and Patrick Nurthen; 11 grandchildren who adored their “Papa,” Emma, Lily, Julia, William IV, Paul, Lucy, Haley, Mila, Miriam, Brendan and Michael; two brothers, Jeremiah and John; and a sister, Martha. Bill was predeceased by his parents; and sisters, Mary Patience, Therese, and Jinny.

Go Navy, Beat Army! H

THOMAS RICHARD MORSE ’74

Thomas R. Morse of Chester Springs, PA, passed away on 13 January 2024 at home, surrounded by family, following a 14-month battle against glioblastoma. He was 72 years old

Born in Decatur, IL, “Tom” graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy to become a nuclear submariner. His first assignment was NAUTILUS (SSN-571), and he served on NEW YORK CITY (SSN-696), which was built in Groton, CT. He ended his naval career as aide to Vice Admiral Kenneth Carr ’49.

He then earned his MBA at Wharton and spent his entire professional career as a venture capitalist in Philadelphia, PA, lastly as founder of Liberty Venture Partners.

Tom was a former treasurer and trustee of The Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Philadelphia.

He enjoyed traveling, hiking, sailing, swimming and studying history.

Tom is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jan (Smith); their children, Henry “Hank” Morse and Ellen Morse, both of Chester Springs, PA; mother, Sarah LaCost Morse of Findlay IL; siblings, Rebecca Decker (Daniel) of Weston CT, Pamela Lulman (Philip) of Calgary, Alberta, and Timothy Morse (Lori) of Shelbyville, IL; and many nieces and nephews. His father, Richard H. Morse, predeceased him.

Private services will be conducted at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tom’s memory may be made to Penn Medicine’s Brain Tumor Lab Support Fund (http://tinyurl.com/Penn-Brain-Tumor-Lab). By check: Brain Tumor Lab Support Fund, Penn Medicine Development Attn: Sheryl Garton 3535 Market St., Ste 750 Philadelphia, PA 19104; Please make payable to “Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania,” noting “in memory of Thomas Morse;” or The Eagles Autism Foundation (www.eaglesautism challenge.org). Please select the donate tab, then choose “The Event.”

The Morse Family H

DAVID THOMAS KERRICK ’76

Colonel David T. Kerrick, USMC (Ret.), died in Chesapeake, VA, on 13 Dec 2023 after a valiant battle with cancer. He was one day shy of 69.

“Dave” was born in Elizabethtown, KY, to Mayme (Hiser) Kerrick and Paul Edward Kerrick. In high school, he was a member of E’town’s first ever basketball team to play in the Kentucky state championship. He reported to USNA in 1972. Majoring in oceanography, Dave shined on the intramural basketball court, where he captained the 18th Company Brigade champion team First Class year.

Upon graduation, Dave was commissioned a Marine Corps second lieutenant. After earning his Wings in Pensacola, FL, Dave detoured back to Annapolis in July 1978 to marry Sarah Petit, whom he met Plebe year.

He then headed to MCAS New River, NC, where he began a 20-year relationship with the venerable CH-46 Sea Knight. Fleet assignments included HMM-264 at New River and both HMM-265 and HMM-364 at Kaneohe Bay, HI. He also served a flight instructor tour in VT-2. The culmination of Dave’s flying years was command of the HMM-264 Black Knights, in which he led the largest air combat element ever formed in a Marine Expeditionary Unit (41 aircraft and 500 Marines and sailors).

Throughout his years in the Fleet, Dave deployed seven times with the Amphibious Navy – literally around the world (he made port calls in Mombasa in both East and West Coast MEUs!)—and supported operations in Iraq, Bosnia and Haiti.

Outside the cockpit, Dave served with 2nd ANGLICO and performed staff tours at Headquarters Marine Corps and U.S. Central Command. He graduated from the Naval War College, U.S. Army Airborne School and the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. His 28 years in the Marine Corps concluded with assignment as Deputy Commander, Naval Safety Center.

After the Marine Corps, Dave returned to the Safety Center as a program manager until retirement from the federal government. Throughout his decades of naval service, Dave was the consummate teacher, mentor, leader... and friend. He was kind, humble and selfless; and he always did what was right.

Preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ken, Dave is survived by Sarah Kerrick, his wife of 45 years; daughter, Erin Akamine (Robert); son, Preston Kerrick; brother, William Kerrick; sister, Sara Bachert (Scott); brother-in-law, Bruce Petit ’76 (Carol); and sister-in-law, Barb Rudolph (Gary).

The Kerrick & Petit Families H

TERRY LANE WILTON ’77

Lieutenant Commander Terry L. Wilton, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully at Gilchrist Hospice Care on 15 January 2024.

A 1977 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Terry entered flight training and then received his NFO Wings in the spring of 1978. Initially assigned to training in the A-6E Intruder at Attack Squadron VA-128 in Whidbey Island, WA, he requested and was granted a change of designator to Restricted Line—Special Duty Intelligence (1630).

Terry’s sea duty tours included two overseas deployments with Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron VAQ-134 aboard NIMITZ (CVN-68), which included involvement in the movie, “The Final Countdown,” and the 1980 Operation Eagle Claw Iranian hostage rescue attempt; one partial deployment with VAQ-134 aboard CONSTELLATION (CV-64); and two overseas deployments as Air Wing 17 (CVW-17) intelligence officer aboard SARATOGA (CV-60).

His shore tours included three years on the watch floor at the Navy Field Operational Intelligence Office (NFOIO) in Suitland, MD; one year at the then-Defense Intelligence College (at Bolling AFB in Washington, DC), where he received a master’s degree in Strategic Intelligence; three years at the International Programs Office at Commander Naval Intelligence Command (ComNavIntCom) in Suitland, MD; two years at the CIA (liaison officer at Project Tsunami); and a split tour in Pearl Harbor, HI, as officer-in-charge of the Office of Naval Intelligence’s (ONI’s) Pacific Forward Support Team (PacFast), and then as the special programs manager in the N2 (Intelligence) Division at the headquarters of Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet (CinCPacFlt) in Pearl Harbor.

Upon his retirement in 1994, Terry continued to support naval intelligence as a contractor at Suitland, supporting the Maritime Systems Program Management Office (MSPMO–ONI-34) for 14 years (1995-2009) as mission planner, and then the Special Platforms Division (ONI-N312) from 2009-2022 as logistics coordinator.

Terry’s main hobby was Hawaiian outrigger canoe paddling, which he learned during his two tours in Pearl Harbor.

Terry is survived by his ex-wife, Sarah; their sons, Matthew and Michael; and two granddaughters, Grace and Riley.

The Wilton Family H

HARRY PAUL WARD ’84

Lieutenant Colonel Harry P. Ward, USMC (Ret.), a patriot and gentleman for all his days, died after a tragic accident in Annapolis, MD, on 16 December 2023.

Born on 11 December 1960 in Gouverneur, NY, to (the late) Thomas E. Ward and Simone M. Ward, Harry graduated from Gouverneur High School (1978) and Bridgeton Academy (1979) as valedictorian. He graduated from the Naval Academy (1984) as the Sixth Battalion Commander and a proud member of the 34th Company (Club 34). In 2000, he earned a master’s degree in Manpower Systems Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School.

From USNA forward, he served in leadership roles. As a naval flight officer (callsign “Dirty Harry”), he flew 100 combat missions over Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Persian Gulf and elsewhere. Harry was also a bombardier/navigator in the A-6 Intruder and flew in F-3 Tornados as an exchange officer with the Royal Air Force. He was a forward air controller in close combat operations during the Gulf War (1991), where he led 1,000 officers and Marines, including the first infantry company, to enter Kuwait City.

During his 20 years of service, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V (2) for “grace under fire,” the Combat Action Ribbon, and most notably, the Legion of Merit, which recognizes his “total dedication to duty” and “upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.”

In military retirement, Harry founded his own human resources consulting company, followed by joining the Federal civil service.

With infectious enthusiasm, Harry was a humble, loyal, genuine friend to many. From the day Suzy and Harry met, they became best friends, each the love of the other’s life and soulmates. He will be greatly missed by all.

Memorial services and interment took place at the Naval Academy on 8 March 2024.

In lieu of flowers or donations, Harry’s family would welcome a favorite memory or photo of Harry to be sent to (suzybyrnes@gmail.com). We will forever remember Harry for his generous heart and favorite greeting, “Hey Partner!”

Harry is survived by his loving wife, Suzy Ward; her son, Jack; his son, Brittain; his daughter, Tayler (and her husband, Miles Coffin); granddaughter, Goldie; his mother, Simone Ward; his brothers, Tom, Dick, Jason and Jonathon; and his father- and mother-in-law, Ray and Carol Byrnes. H

MICHAEL JOHN OTTINGER ’85

Captain Michael J. Ottinger, USN (Ret.), passed away on 18 December 2023 at his home in Washington, DC, under the care of his loving and devoted wife, Holly, after a long decline due to Primary Progressive Aphasia Frontotemporal dementia (FTD). He was 61 years old.

Born on 6 November 1962 in Coronado, CA, he was the eldest son of Gordon and the late Susan (Eldredge) Ottinger. He grew up in Mobile, AL, where he developed lifelong friendships at Davidson High School (class of 1981). He also was a proud Eagle Scout.

Michael graduated from the United States Naval Academy with the Class of 1985, after which he went on to pursue a career in naval aviation, flying the A-6 Intruder with VA-75 and VA-145. He flew many missions during Middle East conflicts off RANGER and ENTERPRISE, during which he flew the last nighttime operational flight of an A-6. He transitioned to the large E-6 aircraft out of TACAMO and then after a year of shore duty in Bahrain, switched over to a career in international affairs at the Navy International Programs Office and OpNav. He discovered a second passion for working with international partners.

He was an avid reader, loved history, music and the outdoors, all of which led to his enjoyment of travel with his wife, Holly. With her help, he was able to squeeze in as many new experiences and outdoor opportunities as possible with his early onset dementia diagnosis.

Michael is survived by his wife, Holly Haverstick; two sons, Michael Scott Ottinger and Dr. Mark Ottinger, DVM; his father, Gordon Ottinger of Columbiana, AL; his brother (and sister-in-law), Marc Ottinger (Susan) of Columbiana, AL; uncle, David Eldredge of Salt Lake City, UT; and other extended family. He was a wonderful, kind and caring soul and as a result, is leaving many friends, neighbors, caregivers and acquaintances with whom he left a lasting impression.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Iona Senior Services, 4125 Albemarle St. NW, Washington, DC 20016-2105 (www.iona.org) or Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, 5159 Langston Boulevard, Arlington VA 22207 (www.luckydoganimalrescue.org).

Inurnment took place at the Naval Academy Columbarium on 22 January 2024. H

PATRICK WALSH SKORA ’02

Commander Patrick W. Skora, USNR (Ret.), departed this world at his home in Boulder, CO, on 20 December 2023.

As a proud native of San Diego, CA, Patrick often spoke of his hometown as “the greatest city in the world.” Born with a strong sense of duty and a compassionate spirit, he embodied the values of loyalty, kindness and selflessness throughout his remarkable life.

Upon graduating from Point Loma High School in 1998, Patrick received his appointment to the Naval Academy. At Annapolis, he was a respected member of the 9th and 29th companies and served as the leader of the Catholic Midshipmen’s Club during his First Class Year. In 2002, Patrick chose to dedicate himself to surface warfare and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics.

Patrick served on multiple warships and earned his master’s degree at the Naval Postgraduate School. Patrick’s commitment to excellence continued as he was selected to serve on the 7th Fleet Command Ship, BLUE RIDGE. After leaving active duty, he pursued an MBA at the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University, graduating in 2017. While beginning his civilian career, Patrick continued to honorably serve his country in the Naval Reserve, retiring in 2022.

In the private sector, Patrick embraced a new chapter with Google, where he worked diligently in the company’s financial arm at their headquarters in Mountain View, CA. In 2022, he left California for the mountains of Colorado, continuing his work for Google as a senior manager.

Outside the professional realm, Patrick’s heart overflowed with compassion for our four-legged friends. A devoted dog lover, he actively participated in local dog shelters and rescues, opening his home to countless foster dogs over the years. Patrick’s loving and nurturing nature was reflected in his commitment to these animals.

Leaving behind a legacy of love, service and camaraderie, Patrick is survived by his mother, Joyce Dixon; brothers, Andrew and Philip; his loyal canine companion, Goose; extended family, Marilyn and Henry DeFrancesca, Claire DiIlio, and Camille DiIlio; and numerous friends whose lives were touched by his unwavering kindness, empathy and generosity.

In our hearts, Patrick’s memory will forever shine as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us to live with purpose, love wholeheartedly and to always be willing to extend a helping hand to those in need.

Services will take place at USNA’s St. Andrew’s Chapel on 11 April 2024 at 10:30 a.m., followed by inurnment at the USNA Columbarium. H

JOSE LUIS RESENDEZ ’19

Lieutenant Jose L. Resendez, USN, died on 4 January 2024 of natural causes in Norfolk, VA.

“Joey” was born on 19 September 1995 in Austin, TX, to Manuel Resendez Jr. and Griselda “Chris” Brent and grew up in El Paso, TX. He attended St. Pius X Catholic Elementary School and graduated from Cathedral High School, where he was a standout football player and a member of the track and field team. In his senior year, he coached the St. Patrick’s boys’ basketball team to the diocesan championship. Joey graduated with distinction from Cathedral in 2014 and received an appointment to the Naval Academy. While at Annapolis, this young man of the desert was on the Academy’s sailing team and his crew competitively sailed from Annapolis to Bermuda in record time. He was always proud of saying he was the only D1 athlete in the family. He also competed in intermural boxing and made it to the Navy Brigade Championship in the heavyweight division.

After graduating from USNA in 2019, he joined the Fleet, where he was a highly respected and decorated surface warfare officer. His first ship was TRUXTUN (DDG-103), and at the time of his death, he was assigned to LEYTE GULF (CG-55).

His sudden death has left his family, and the many friends he acquired in his short life, heartbroken. Joey was always the life of the party, the “ride or die” friend and the standout in all he did. Although he lived a short life, it was a life of purpose and adventure. Joey was never one to deny himself a challenge or an experience and that zeal for life was contagious to anyone lucky enough to be in his presence. He had an amazing sense of humor, a quick and enviable intelligence, and a gentleness and kindness rarely found. Words simply cannot capture the deep pain his death has brought to those who loved him. He had a beautiful and genuine smile, a huge heart and a generous nature. He never met a stranger, as he befriended everyone he met. We will miss his bear hugs, his humility and his infectious laughter.

Joey is survived by his devoted and loving father, Manuel Resendez Jr. (Maureen); mother, Chris Brent (Don); brother, Manuel III; his bonus siblings, Henry, Steven, Ann Marie and Stacy; grandmother, Rosita Resendez; many aunts, uncles, cousins; and innumerable friends.

Fair Winds and Following Seas, Joey. Rest in Paradise. H

There is no cost and no timeline, however we have a have a maximum limit of 400 words. Submissions will be edited for style and a draft will be returned for family approval prior to publication—please be sure to include contact information. Obituaries may be emailed to: obits@usna.com (preferred) or USPS mailed to:

ENGAGEMENT

TJ Grady ’96 410-295-4041

Executive Vice President, Engagement and Communications

Nancy Murray 410-295-4049

Sr. Director, Alumni Engagement and Outreach

Isaac Phillips ’19 410-295-4036

Director, Online Engagement and SIGs

Wendy Owen 410-295-4017

Director, Class Programs

Lori Coogan 410-295-4038

Director, Parent Programs

Carrie Carroll 410-295-4062

Membership/Records Assistant

Debbee O’Donnell 410-295-4052

Member Services Coordinator

Kathleen Rohrs 410-295-4044

Member Services Coordinator

Amy Garwood 410-295-4015

Director, Alumni Travel

Wes Huey ’87 410-295-4023

Executive Dir., Strategy and Legacy Programs

Gwenn Dennis 410-295-4091

Director, Memorial Affairs

Mike Lowe ’98 410-295-4106

Director, Alumni Career Programs

Service Academy Career Conference

Tonya McGinnis 410-295-4022

Director, SACC

Melissa Nelson 410-295-4021

Manager, SACC

COMMUNICATIONS

John Schofield 410-295-4080

Executive Director of Communications

Emily Lucht 410-295-4047

Director, Digital Communications

Jackie Furton 410-295-4073

Art Director

Heather Payne 410-295-4033

Creative Director of Communications

Grace Doerfler 410-295-4018

Graphic Designer

Jimmy DeButts 410-295-4085

Editor

Anne Sharpe 410-295-4078

Assistant Director, Communications

Maria O’Shea 410-295-4074

Assistant Production Manager

Sandra Stansbury-Spadaro 410-295-4076

Communications Specialist

Spencer Jones 410-295-4026

Communications Specialist

Sarah Trimmer 410-295-4077

Digital Communications Coordinator

Timothy Elizabeth Woodbury 410-295-4064

Memorial Affairs Manager

FLUEGEL ALUMNI CENTER

Don Kennedy ’92 410-295-4063

Senior Director, Events and Facilities

Scott Gaiser ’05 410-295-4068

Dir., Real Estate and Facilities Maintenance

Elizabeth Beedenbender 410-295-4166

Dir.,

FLUEGEL ALUMNI CENTER CONTINUED

Judy Buddensick 443-994-2511

Partnership Marketing Liason

TREASURY AND OPERATIONS

Robert “Bob” Gast Jr. 410-295-4040

Executive Vice President and CFO

Lisa Strobel 410-295-4051

Sr. Director, Finance and Treasury Operations

Kevin Mitchell 410-295-4039

Director, Treasury, Analytics & Investment Reporting

Tim Smith 410-295-4059

Director, Financial Reporting

Linda Reyes 410-295-4056

Director, Revenue Specialist

Janet Douglas 410-295-4057

Staff Accountant

Stephanie St. Clair 410-295-4058

Staff Accountant

Patricia “Patty” Ratigan 410-295-4028

Staff Accountant

Dawn Beach 410-295-4177

Payroll Manager

Gift Administration Team

Victoria Sever 410-295-4122

Director, Gift Administration

Elvira Reyes 410-295-4116

Gift Administrator II

Gladys Sanchez 410-295-4112

Gift Administrator

Ashley Clark 410-295-4117

Data Support Specialist

Information Technology

Garrett Keating 410-295-4087

Director, Information Technology

Jordan Bailey 410-295-4060

Sr. Assoc. Dir., Enterprise Network and Security

Denise Clark 410-295-4079

Associate Director, Data Services

Derrick Planz 410-295-4067

Associate Director, Software Developer

Rick Clark 410-295-4088

Associate Director, Information Technology

Sean Henson 410-295-4083

AV Technician

Dustin Tripp 410-295-4086

Security Specialist

Ryan Haddaway 410-295-4089

Help Desk Technician

Ashley Norfolk 410-295-4084

SQL Application Developer

Umar Gbadamosi 410-295-4082

SQL Database Engineer

HUMAN RESOURCES

Dr. Joy Jones 410-295-4048

Senior Director, Human Resources

Tom Cloutier 410-295-4050

Senior Manager, Human Resources

Nan Hooe 410-295-4045

Benefits Specialist

DEVELOPMENT

Bill O’Connor 410-295-4101

Executive Vice President

Abby Repko 410-295-4103

Exec. Administrator/Principal Gift Administrator

John Rudder ’78 410-295-4191

Senior Advisor

Rusty Yeiser ’74 410-295-4174

Senior Advisor

Kristen Furlong 410-295-4121

Assistant Dir., Corporate and Foundation Relations

Erin Pelletier 410-295-4106

Principal Gift Strategist

Major Gifts

Michael Hoffman 410-295-4184

Vice President, Development

Ashley “AJ” Bauer 410-295-4160

Managing Regional Director of Development

Rob Lias 410-295-4053

Assistant Director of Regional Development

DEVELOPMENT CONTINUED

Mariah Sakellaris 410-295-4187

Assistant Director of Regional Development

John Maconi 410-295-4185

Regional Director of Development

Dean Castaldo 410-295-4052

Senior Regional Director, Development

Chelsea Clute 410-295-4123

Regional Director of Development

Ted Ahrens 410-295-4183

Regional Director of Development

Lexxie Monahan 410-295-4128

Regional Director of Development

Anissa Kossakowski 410-295-4182

Regional Director of Development

Misie King 410-295-4178

Admin. Manager of Development

Ashley Register 410-295-4178

Admin. Coordinator, Regional Development

Prospect Development and Research

Elizabeth Root 410-295-4126

Director, Prospect Development and Research

Annie Ferry 410-295-4120

Asst. Dir., Prospect Development and Research

Jenna Tonking 410-295-4109

Asst. Dir., Development Analytics and Research

Planned Giving

Carol Rognrud 410-295-4110

Director, Planned Giving

Jennifer Macris 410-295-4105

Assistant Director, Planned Giving

Jodi Reilly 410-295-4114

Administrative Coordinator, Planned Giving

Annual Programs

Gabrielle Kulcsar 410-295-4147

Executive Director, Annual Giving Programs

Dan Quattrini ’81 410-295-4167

Director, Class Legacy Gift Programs

Megan Farmer 410-295-4188

Director, President’s Circle

Sara Brown 410-295-4130

Coordinator, Class Giving Programs

Donor Relations and Stewardship

Natalie Brianas 410-295-4102

Executive Dir., Donor Relations and Stewardship

Travis Galaska 410-295-4111

Assoc. Dir., Donor Relations and Stewardship

Hannah Geib 410-295-4127

Assoc. Dir., Campaign Operations

Nicolle Teixeira 410-295-4181

Director, Donor Relations and Stewardship

Sarah Jane Dunaway 410-295-4124

Assoc. Dir., Development Communications

Jamie Janette 410-295-4113

Coordinator, Donor Relations and Stewardship

Strategic Advancement Resources

Adriana Bitoun 410-295-4150

Executive Director of STAR Team

Beth Spicer 410-295-4149

Director, Information Management and Reporting

Shirley Crawford 410-295-4071

STAR Project Coordinator

FOUNDATION ATHLETIC AND SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS

Don Hughes ’88 410-295-4096

Vice President

Tracey Cook 410-295-4164

Director

Baker 410-295-4098

Assistant Director