Shipmate: July-August 2022

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Alumni in the Arctic

PHOTO COURTESY OF LTJG CAL CISNEROS ’19, USN

Six Naval Academy alumni were part of ICEX 2022, a three-week long biannual research and training exercise in the Arctic Circle. This year the exercise was conducted above and below arctic ice by PASADENA and ILLINOIS. Each ship spent roughly 30 days submerged below the ice, firing exercise torpedoes and gaining a better understanding of the Arctic environment. The alumni serving in PASADENA were (from left to right), LT Trevor Stefanski ’17, USN; LTJG John Sisson ’19, USN; LTJG Cal Cisneros ’19, USN; LT Ellis Moore ’18, USN; LT Mac Qin ’14, USN; and LTJG Demetrius Lanier ’19, USN.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CLASS OF 1972’S 9TH COMPANY

9th Company Connection Members of the Class of 1972’s 9th Company sealed their connection with their 50-year Another Link in the Chain counterparts with a special gift on 21 May at the Submarine Monument on the Yard. An anonymous member of 9th Company 1972 donated 37 uncirculated 2022 American Eagle Silver Dollars in commemorative cases, one for each of the members of the 9th Company about to graduate. CDR John M. Dillion ’72, USNR (Ret.), 9th Company, gives the commemorative coin to ENS Noah G. Martinolich ’22, USN, future Navy pilot.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

UNBREAKABLE BONDS

By Jeff Webb ’95

M

y tenure as President and CEO of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation officially began on 13 June, which as I write this column, was four weeks ago.

I had a smooth first month in my role, thanks largely to the excellent team that is in place. I am grateful to my colleagues at the Alumni Association and Foundation for their warm welcome and patient assistance as I have gotten to know the organization better.

My immediate predecessor, Byron Marchant ’78, has been invaluable to me during the turnover process. Thankfully, he still resides in the area and remains committed to the Enterprise’s success.

I have also been the beneficiary of the wisdom of Byron’s predecessor, George Watt ’73. George led the Enterprise through a transformational change over two decades ago that laid important groundwork for the success realized on both his and Byron’s watch.

My first official events were related to Induction Day on 30 June. For the first time since 2019, the Naval Academy was able to conduct a “normal” I-Day with family members present on the Yard.

The Alumni Association and Foundation hosted families for a picnic and expo on Hospital Point while their plebes were briskly ushered through Alumni Hall and on to their new home, Mother B. As they enjoyed lunch and some shade under our massive tent, we let the parents know how we could help them stay connected to their midshipman’s experiences throughout Plebe Summer and beyond.

Having not witnessed an I-Day since my own 31 years ago, I found it interesting to observe the plebes at their various stages of processing, as well as the families at different parts of the day. I was

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moved by the pride I could see in the families and the profound commitment being made by our newest midshipmen.

The Oath of Office was the capstone for an electric and emotional day for everyone. After the plebes were sworn in as a group by Commandant of Midshipmen Colonel James P. McDonough ’94, USMC, I was fortunate to witness a powerful “link in the chain” moment. While I was standing in front of Bancroft Hall soaking in the atmosphere, Lieutenant Commander Dan Cnossen ’02, USN (Ret.), happened to walk right up to me.

Dan is a double amputee who stepped on a land mine in Afghanistan in September 2009 while serving as platoon commander in SEAL Team ONE. He is a three-time Paralympian who has won

LCDR Dan Cnossen ’02, USN (Ret.), administers the oath of office to his friend’s son during Induction Day 2022.

seven medals including a gold in mixed relay cross-country during the 2022 Winter Games.

I met him at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center 12 years ago when he was recovering from his injuries.

I visited him with Byron Marchant.

Dan was on the Yard to personally administer the Oath of Office to his friend’s son in front of an American flag in Memorial Hall. Witnessing this special moment in which an alumnus, who paid a heavy price while putting his life on the line for our country, swearing in one of our newest midshipmen, was a privilege of the highest order. That moment brought to life what the Naval Academy, and its Alumni Association and Foundation, are all about.

Looking forward, my team and I will use the remainder of the summer to prepare for what is always a busy time of year for the enterprise, the fall reunion and football season. I look forward to visiting with as many alumni as possible at both our home and away games.

Also, this fall, the Enterprise strategic planning process will once again follow the Yard’s cadence. This once-a-decade effort is led by a group of highly committed volunteer leaders who will take a close look at our programs and services as well as support the Naval Academy’s Margin of Excellence.

In closing, this is your Alumni Association and Foundation. If there is something we aren’t doing but could be doing—or something we could be doing better—please let me know. While we can’t execute on every good idea immediately, your inputs are critical as we continue to evolve our programs and services based on the needs of our members.

Thank you, and Go Navy! Beat Army!

Jeff Webb jeff.webb@usna.com a

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SHIPMATE VOLUME 85 • NO. 5

TOP GUN

IN THIS ISSUE

Alumni played key roles in ensuring the flight sequences in the original Top Gun and its sequel were based in reality. 18

Jeff Webb ’95

6 8 17 42

PASSIONATE ADVOCATE

MILLENNIALS New President and CEO Jeff Webb ’95 hopes TAKING COMMAND his story inspires others to engage with the The Class of 2005 is taking command of ships and constant processing of shipmate feedback is central to their leadership style. 38

Alumni Association and Foundation. 12

RESILIENCY REWARDED

The Class of 1983 was instrumental in making the Yard the eternal home for CENTRAL AMERICA’s bell. 26

44 46 48 132 158 160 178 184

All Hands Advertisers Index Five Minutes With…

An Ocean Away

Lieutenant Kathleen M. Barrios ’18, USN

Bravo Zulu Alumni Products/Services Class News Chapter News Shared Interest Groups Last Call Classified Ads Staff and Assistance

A SIMPLE TEXT

ENS Alexis Bell ’22, USN, epitomized the Class of 2022’s perseverance through a collegiate career marred by the pandemic. 30 The Yard buzzed with traditional activities including the Blue Angels, Ring Dance and Herndon Climb. 32

FORTUNE FAVORS THE BELL

DEPARTMENTS 4 Letter from the President

IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE HARD

Dan A. Nygaard ’87 shares his father’s guidance about facing tough times and why he passed it along to his recently graduated son. 36

50 YEARS OF TRAVEL

The Alumni Association celebrates the Golden Anniversary of its travel program. 40 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 hiding in the Navy-Notre Dame ad on page 42 of the June 2022 issue of Shipmate.

Our Mission

To serve and support the United States, the naval service, the Naval Academy and its alumni by furthering the highest standards at the Naval Academy; by seeking out, informing, encouraging and assisting outstanding, qualified young men and women to pursue careers as officers in the Navy and Marine Corps through the Naval Academy; and by initiating and sponsoring activities which will perpetuate the history, traditions, memories and growth of the Naval Academy and bind alumni together in support of the highest ideals of command, citizenship and government.

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

On the Cover Class of 2026 Induction Day. Photo courtesy of USNA

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ALL HANDS Editor’s Note 4,300 mentors and protégés working together and that number continues to climb. Please consider participating in this very important program to support our alumni—especially those in transition.

As we quickly move toward kickoff of the 2022 football season, we are beginning the final academic year before we move into the new Alumni and Foundation Center. The new facility is really beginning to take shape and will provide the perfect venue for reunions, alumni gatherings and other special events once compete.

The photo below was taken from the cockpit of an F/A-18F Super Hornet flown by Commander Alex P. Armatas ’02, USN (newly selected as the Blue Angel Skipper) and Commander Graham Scarbro '04, USN. The photo was provided by Scarbro’s brother, Ben, who is an architect with Perkins Eastman, which is working on the Alumni Center project. Their father, Kurt, taught oceanography, meteorology and geology at the Academy in the early 1990s. The linkage between alumni always amazes me, like six degrees of Kevin Bacon.

We can’t wait to see you this fall. Go Navy! Beat Army!

Commander Craig Washington ’89, USN (Ret.) Editor-in-Chief ® PHOTO COURTESY OF PBEN HURLEY SCARBR

As fall quickly approaches, members of the Alumni Association’s engagement team are eager to get back on the road for in-person activities with the alumni community this fall. Our engagement staff will be at all home and away football games.

Additionally, we will be hosting a young alumni tailgate at our home games for those alumni less than 10 years removed. The younger classes tend to not have perimeter spots, so we would like to host you all before the home games. Look for more information on that as we get closer.

We’re excited to share the latest developments at the Alumni Association and welcome any suggestions for how we can better serve you. I am pleased to report Isaac Phillips ’19 has joined our team as an Alumni Engagement Officer. Isaac recently served as the Marine Corps University’s assistant director of research and is currently the Class of 2019 Class President. He is enthusiastic about connecting with— and assisting—alumni so please join me in welcoming him aboard.

The Service Academy Career Conference (SACC) will be back in San Diego, CA, on 25-26 August. This extraordinary program continues to connect service academy alumni with elite employers. If you are seeking a new career path, or, if you represent a firm seeking to hire outstanding candidates with superior skillsets and leadership traits, please visit sacc-jobfair.com/ to learn more about SACC. Dallas, TX, will be the host site for a SACC event on 27-28 October.

The Alumni Association is proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Alumni Mentoring Program (AMP). This Construction of the Naval Academy Alumni Association initiative, established by and Foundation Center continues on a steady pace with the Class of 1969, has completion scheduled for summer 2023.

CDR Alex P. Armatas ’02, USN, and CDR Graham Scarbro ’04, USN, fly an FA-18F Super Hornet over the Yard in May. The arrow designates the future home of the Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation.

USNA Alumni Association and Foundation Board of Trustees Call for Nominations In May 2023, the Eastern and Central Region Trustees will complete their current terms of office on the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation Board of Trustees.

The serving Eastern Region Trustee, Commander Bill Squires ’75, USNR (Ret.), and the serving Central Region Trustee, Commander Richard Cataldi ’69, USN (Ret.), have completed two terms of office and will, therefore, be ineligible for further service on the Board.

Section 4.5(b) of the Bylaws states as follows: “Any regular member may propose candidates to the nominating committee to be considered for the positions of the Chair, Vice-Chair and regional trustee.” A nominating board has been formed pursuant to Section 4.59(a) of the Bylaws to find and recommend to the Board candidates for the two Regional Trustee positions.

Proposed candidates for Trustees must be regular members of the Alumni Association who have expressed a willingness to serve as a Trustee and must reside in the region they intend to serve.

Our community is committed to further progress in having our Board represent the rich diversity of backgrounds in the community. We trust this call for nominations inspires our community to seize this opportunity to act on that commitment by nominating worthy minority and women candidates to ensure the slate of candidates reflects our diverse alumni community.

Members wishing to propose a candidate may do so by sending their submission to: Nominating Committee U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association 247 King George Street Annapolis, MD 21402-5068 Or via email to: Nominating_Committee@usna.com Submissions must be received no later than 1 October 2022. ®

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PHOTO COURTESY OFNAVFAC WASHINGTON

Class of 2022 Selects Three as Honorary Classmates

ECS Donates $4M to Hopper Hall and Next Generation Cyber Warriors

PHOTO COURTESY OF NAAA

Robinson ’15 Awards Scholarship to Hometown Heroes Captain Shakir Robinson ’15, USMC, visited his high school alma mater, Brunswick High School in Brunswick, MD, on 16 May to award scholarships to area students through the Dare to be Your Best scholarship program he established in 2011 to give back to his hometown.

One of the scholarship recipients, MaKenzie Broner, received a check for $1,500 that she plans to put towards her tuition to attend Fort Valley State University this fall.

The Naval Academy Athletic Association (NAAA) caught up with Robinson this June to learn more about Dare to Be Your Best and his plans as he embarks on his journey as a prestigious Olmsted Scholar. ®

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

ECS, a Fairfax, VA, technology firm, announced in May that the company and its partners have donated more than $4 million to the Naval Academy’s recently opened Hopper Hall. The Naval Academy Center for Cybersecurity Studies is the first academic building constructed on the Yard in 40 years and is the hub for educating our future cyber warfighter.

The donation to support the Advanced Cyber Threat Defense (ACTD) hardware and software program, a complete suite of enterprise security automation tools for use in the educational lab, was made in partnership with Trellix and ThreatQuotient. The ACTD platform is a comprehensive, next-generation endpoint security tool that provides visibility, remediation, orchestration and management of digital assets as well as state-of-the-art threat intelligence sharing.

“The Naval Academy is at the forefront of training next-gen cyber warriors. We are confident this donation will strengthen the capabilities of the Center for Cyber Security Studies by enabling midshipmen to develop practical skills through hands-on experience in cyber operations,” said ECS President John Heneghan. ®

Every year, members of the Naval Academy’s graduating class nominate and select honorary classmates from various backgrounds and professional careers to be recognized along with the class during their commissioning ceremony at the Naval Academy’s Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

The Class of 2022 selected three honorary classmates this year: Dr. Zachary Hough, Mae Blue and Senior Chief Maintenance Technician William Sisk, USN—all of whom had a major impact on the newly appointed Navy and Marine Corps officers.

A mathematics learning specialist, Hough provides math assistance to midshipmen and has been an instrumental contributor to the success of hundreds of midshipmen in calculus and other math subjects for more than four years after arriving from North Carolina State where he earned his doctorate degree.

Blue, known to midshipmen, faculty and staff as “grandma” began working in the Midshipmen Store as a cashier in 2016 after her son found the job and submitted an application for her. Since her arrival, she has built lasting relationships with everyone she encounters including the more than 4,000 “grandkids” she has befriended during her time at the Academy.

Sisk was assigned to the Academy in 2019 and served as the 20th Company’s Senior Enlisted Leader. Sisk has been a transformational mentor for many members of the Class of 2022. He announced his retirement on the day of graduation marking 24 years in the Navy. ®

Hull Technician Senior Chief William Sisk, USN, Mae Blue and Dr. Zachary Hough were selected as honorary classmates of the Class of 2022 this May.

“I don’t do things for recognition. I do things because I know my son was in the military.

I don’t know how he was treated when he was in training. These kids are away from home— a long way from home—and you want them to feel like they are home. You have to show them love. I feel like I am at home with my own children here. I thank God for the love that I get from them. It’s overwhelming.”

—Mae Blue regarding her selection by the Naval Academy Class of 2022 as one of three honorary Class of 2022 classmates.

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ALL HANDS

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

The Bradford Exchange ..........................11, 43 Citizen’s Watch ..............................................41 Falcons Landing ..............................................31 Herff Jones ..........................Inside Back Cover Jostens ............................................................25 NCEES ..............................................................37 Riverside Health System ..............................29 USAA ..............................................................45 USAA ..................................Inside Front Cover USNA Foundation— Great Class Challenge..............................16

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The Village at Providence Center ..................3 Virtual Memorial Hall....................Back Cover Alumni Products and Services Alumni Business Directory ....................46 Alumni Merchandise: Chairs ................47 Alumni Travel 2023 ................................47 Service Academy Career Conference 2022 ..................46

In May, MSNBC announced the launch of a special four-part series celebrating women of color including former Naval Academy chief diversity officer, Captain Tamika CAPT Tamika Lindsay ’92, USN (Ret.), center, with her Lindsay ’92, USN daughter MIDN Elise Lindsay ’23, right, and her son MIDN (Ret.). “The Culture Eric Lindsay ’25, who are both attending the Naval Academy.

Is” aims to generate authentic and thought-provoking conversations across communities of women including Black, Latina, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Indigenous women and beyond.

Each episode of the series will be dedicated to a specific community of color—with the first episode focusing on Black women—and will air on MSNBC and stream on the MSNBC hub on Peacock. MSNBC hosts Joy Reif and Tiffany Cross will host the first episode, “The Culture is Black Women” and will feature a roundtable with Lindsay as well as other influential Black women including Vice President Kamala Harris at the historic Minton’ Playhouse in Harlem, NY. ®

Appleton ’22 Earns Class of 1926 Award PHOTO COURTESY OF CDR PETE LEHARDY ’89, USN (RET.)

Seven Class of 2022 midshipmen spent their last two semesters at the Naval Academy developing a mobile railgun system as part of their senior capstone project— a year-long design project culminating Seven Class of 2022 midshipmen and their two capstone each midshipman’s advisors spent more than 100 hours over two semesters academic experience. developing a mobile railgun system.

Modeled after the Navy’s railgun project, the system uses electromagnetic forces without the need for conventional gunpowder. The railgun fires a projectile at Mach 1, approximated 770 mph and is programmed to shoot 30 shots in one hour with an automated reloading capability.

Then-Midshipmen Carlos Perez ’22, Damien Stonhill ’22, Anna Sewall ’22, David Majd-Faridi ’22, Dalton Harrelson ’22, Bennett Moudy ’22 and Lauren de Leon ’22 along with their capstone advisors Captain John Stevens, USN, and Commander Chris Martino, USN, collectively spent more than 100 hours developing the system.

“We have dedicated so much time, sweat and tears into this project.

Many times, we believed we would never be able to accomplish what we initially set out to do, but we wanted to ensure that all the hard work we had already put in would not go to waste,” Perez said.

Even with the highly motivated students and committed faculty working on this small-scale high pulse energy weapon system, its success would not be possible without the continued resource support from the Office of Naval Research and technical support from the Naval Surface Warfare Centers in Dahlgren, VA, and Philadelphia, PA. “This team has done an outstanding job on their year-long multidisciplinary design project. I've been coaching midshipmen capstone project teams for nine years, and this one is the most challenging in terms of scope, risk management and operational testing. To put it in Department of Defense acquisition terminology, this team carried their mobile tactical railgun from proof-of-concept to a system prototype demonstration in a relevant operational environment—a great testimony to the value of the partnerships between academic departments, resource sponsors, warfare centers and midshipmen,” Stevens said.

Article courtesy of USNA News Center. ®

MSNBC Launches Series Celebrating Women of Color, Including Lindsay ’92 PHOTO COURTESY CAPT TAMIKA LINDSAY ’92, USN (RET.)

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

Class of 2022 Midshipmen Successfully Develop Mobile Railgun System as Senior Capstone Project

From left to right: Becky LeHardy, Marti Moses, CDR Jim Moses ’69, USN (Ret.), then-MIDN Jenna Appleton ’22, Sally Barker, Ed Barker ’62 and CDR Pete LeHardy ’89, USN.

On Friday, 20 May, family members of the Class of 1926 gathered at the Robert Crown Sailing Center to take part in the annual USNA Seamanship and Navigation Awards Ceremony and the presentation of the Class of 1926 award for leadership and ship handling during Summer YP Cruise.

Attending on behalf of the Class of 1926 were Commander Jim Moses ’69, USN (Ret.), and his wife, Marti; Ed Barker ’62 and his wife, Sally; and Commander Pete LeHardy ’89, USN (Ret.), and his wife, Becky. During the event Moses, son of Rear Admiral Charles W. Moses ’26, USN (Ret.), gave a moving talk that highlighted the life and service of the Class of 1926, as well as some encouraging words for the Class of 2022.

This year’s Class of 1926 award recipient was then-Midshipman Jenna Appleton ’22. Appleton was an English major and bound for PINCKNEY (DDG-91) out of San Diego, CA. During the ceremony Moses presented Appleton with the award, including a plaque and a pair of binoculars. ®

Timothy O’Donnell ’03 suffered a “widow-maker” heart attack while competing in the Challenge Miami Triathlon on 14 March 2021. After completing the swim portion of the 70.3-mile race in just 20 minutes, 30 seconds, in one of the best swims of his career, O’Donnell was over halfway through the 56-mile bike portion of the event when he realized he wasn’t feeling right and soon began suffering all of the typical symptoms of a heart attack.

“I thought ‘this is a heart attack.’ I hit the run and I wanted to run faster than I could and I just couldn’t understand why I couldn’t. I was just in race mindset and I’m going to finish my races no matter what,” O’Donnell said.

After crossing the finish line, instead of beginning to recover, O’Donnell began to take a turn for the worse and was rushed to a local hospital where he was told he had suffered a major heart attack nicknamed “the widow-maker” because so many people don’t survive.

On 15 June, just 15 months after his on-course heart attack, O’Donnell returned to the race circuit at IRONMAN Des Moines, IA, in a quest to qualify for triathlon’s most prestigious event, the IRONMAN World Championships in Kailua-Kona, HI. Crossing the finish line with a time of 8:10:07 and a third-place finish overall, O’Donnell is headed to Hawaii for the 11th time.

The IRONMAN World Championships will take place on 8 October. ®

Army-Navy Game to Play in Five Cities Over Five Years The Army-Navy football game will be played in New England for the first time in the rivalry’s 123-year history when the Midshipmen meet the Black Knights in Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA, in 2023.

After playing in Philadelphia, PA, on 10 December 2022, the 2023 game will be hosted in the Boston, MA, region in conjunction with the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party and the 225th anniversary of CONSTITUTION’s maiden voyage. The other sites are Washington, DC; Baltimore, MD; New York/New Jersey and Philadelphia, PA. The 2024 game will mark the 125th time the service academy rivals have played against each other and will be hosted in Washington, DC, with Army serving as the home team. The Army-Navy game will return to Baltimore, MD, in 2025 with Fort McHenry, the site where Francis Scott Key penned the lyrics to the “The Star Spangled Banner,” serving as backdrop. It will mark the seventh time the city has hosted the game.

The 2026 game will be held in NY/NJ as part of the 25th anniversary of 9/11. It will mark the 19th time the game has been played in New York or New Jersey and the sixth time it has been played at the Meadowlands Complex. Philadelphia, PA, will host the annual game for the 91st time in 2027 at Lincoln Financial Field on 10 December 2027. Navy currently leads the all-time series 45-40-4 in games played in Philadelphia. Navy will be the home team. Navy leads the all-time series 62-53-7 and has won two of the last three, 16 of the last 20 and 18 of the last 23 contests. ®

A delay in tendering the appointment of the following midshipmen in order to pursue employments in professional sports following graduation from the Naval Academy was approved by Lloyd Austin III, U.S. Secretary of Defense on 22 May in accordance with DTM-19-011 “Military Service Academy Graduates Seeking to Participate in Professional Sports.”

Ensign Jennifer Coleman ’22, USN— Basketball. Coleman was offered a contract as an undrafted preferred free agent by the Washington Mystics following the 2022 Women’s National Basketball Association Draft. Assigned to Former Navy football linebacker, commission as a surface warfare officer, 2ndLt Diego Fagot ’22, USMC, has she enlisted in the Navy Individual been signed as an undrafted free agent by the Baltimore Ravens after Ready Reserve following graduation. he and three other midshipmen were Second Lieutenant Diego Fagot ’22, approved a delay in appointment to USMC—Football. Fagot was offered a seek employment in professional sports following graduation. contract as an undrafted preferred free agent by the Baltimore Ravens following the 2022 National Football League Draft. Assigned to commission as Marine Corps ground officer, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Individual Ready Reserve following graduation.

Ensign Michael McMorris ’22, USN—Football. McMorris was invited to undrafted free agent rookie camp by the Washington Commanders following the 2022 National Football League Draft. Assigned to commission as a surface warfare officer, he enlisted in the Navy Individual Ready Reserve after graduation.

Second Lieutenant Matthew Nocita ’22, USMC—Soccer. Nocita was selected in the first round of the 2022 Major League Soccer SuperDraft by the New York Red Bulls. Assigned to commission as Marine Corps ground officer, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Individual Ready Reserve following graduation.

Consistent with DTM-19-011, midshipmen whose tender of appointment is delayed will enlist in the Navy or Marine Corps Individual Ready Reserve, and at the conclusion of participating in professional sports, will complete an active-duty service obligation of at least five years from the date of their appointment as a commissioned officer. ®

PHOTO COURTESY OF NAVY SPORTS

PHOTO COURTESY OF INSIDETRACKER

O’Donnell ’03 Qualifies for Four Midshipmen Approved IRONMAN World Championships Delay of Appointment to Following Heart Attack Pursue Professional Sports

2022 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Follow Navy Football at navysports.com

3 SEPT vs Univ. of Delaware 29 OCT vs Temple 10 SEPT vs Memphis 5 NOV @ Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH) 24 SEPT @ East Carolina (Greenville, NC) 12 NOV — Notre Dame (Baltimore, MD) 1 OCT @ Air Force (USAF Academy ,CO) 19 NOV @ UCF (Orlando, FL) 8 OCT vs Tulsa 3 DEC — AAC Championship TBA 14 OCT @ SMU (Dallas, TX) 10 DEC vs Army (Philadelphia, PA) 22 OCT vs Houston 1-800-US4-NAVY

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ALL HANDS

Real-life ‘Top Guns’ at NAS Oceana On Being the Best in Naval Aviation

2023 Distinguished Graduate Award Call for Nominations The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association considers the Distinguished Graduate Award (DGA) to be the highest recognition we bestow on a living graduate,recognizing leaders who through their personal example of lifelong service personify the fulfillment of their “potential for future development in mind and character to assume the highest responsibilities of command, citizenship, and government.” As an additional criterion, we also consider it vital that our DGAs have demonstrated a sustained commitment to supporting the Naval Academy and our alumni.

Our window for nominating graduates for the 2023 DGA cycle opened on 1 July 2022. We will consider packages submitted on or before 15 October 2022. Please find complete nomination process and selection criteria on our website at www.usna.com/dga. Should you need assistance or additional information on the program or the process, please contact Captain Wes Huey ’87, USN (Ret.), at wesley.huey@usna.com or 410-295-4023. ® 10 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

PHOTO COURTESY OF NAVY.MIL

Fifty-two years after his death, Rear Admiral Frederick Riefkohl, USN (Ret.), Class of 1911, has been nominated to receive America’s highest award for valor in combat in honor of his heroic leadership in World War I. Riefkohl—the first Puerto Rican to graduate from the Naval Academy—led a successful showdown with a German submarine but did not receive the Medal of Honor to commemorate his gallantry due to being unfairly discriminated against by military brass because of his island heritage, according to a recently released study.

Riefkohl is one of 214 minority veterans identified by the Valor Medals Review Project, a Congress-authorized study spearheaded by Park University near Kansas, MO. For his actions on 2 August 1917, Riefkohl was awarded the Navy Cross. However after reviewing his historical records and Navy Cross citation, The Valor Medals Review Project found evidence of discrimination and deemed his actions as Medal of Honor-worthy.

“One of the problems is that not enough documentation was done because these individuals were not viewed as fully deserving at that time—and that’s absurd,” said Donn Weaver, chairman of the Brevard Veterans Council.

The 214 World War I troops qualified for review by the Valor Medals Review Project for the Army, Army Air Corps, Marine Corps, Navy and Navy Air Corps include 105 Jewish Americans, 73 African Americans, 23 Native Americans, 12 Hispanic Americans and one Asian American. ®

Thirty-six years after the original Top Gun movie, the longawaited sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, tells the story of the best of the best in naval aviation, and the Navy’s real ‘Top Guns’ are hoping its success will inspire ADM Daryl Caudle, USN, Commander Fleet Forces Command, the next generation and LT Karl “Kramps” Knight ’13, USN, an instructor pilot for of fighter pilots.

Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, walk off the flight line on Naval Air Station Oceana after taking a flight in an F/A-18 “For me personally, Super Hornet aircraft. Caudle visited NAS Oceana for an early throughout my career, showing of Top Gun: Maverick for active duty, prior military I was impacted by and their families. a lot of previous graduates from the school. I looked up to them immensely. And because of that, it was something I wanted to follow in their footsteps,” said Lieutenant Jack Hinderland ’15, USN, who pilots the Super Hornet, a product of the real TOPGUN more formally known as the U.S. Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor (SFTI) program.

Hinderland now works at the Naval Air Station Oceana-based Strike Fighter Weapons School Atlantic, sharing all the tactical and operational knowledge and skills he honed out west at TOPGUN with the 17 squadron stationed at the east coast Master Jet Base.

In honor of the real pilots who inspired both the original Top Gun and its sequel, Navy personnel and their families were given a sneak peek of Top Gun: Maverick at Navy bases across the country with specially arranged advanced screenings of the film before it was released to the public on 24 May. ®

Blakistone ’02 Reflects on Historic Two-Year Command Supporting SEALs Commander Blythe Blakistone ’02, USN, made history in 2020 when she became the first woman to command a tactical communications team supporting San Diego, CA-based Navy SEALs and other military special forces. After two years at the helm, Blakistone is transitioning to her new role supporting the Information Warfare Command at North Island in San Diego, CA. “We are the voice of the nation’s most elite warfighters. I am privileged to have been in a position overseeing sailors operating at the forefront of technology to maintain an edge over our adversaries. I hope my time in command is remembered for more than just about women rising in leadership but that all those with unique backgrounds bring a unique perspective and provide an operational edge,” said Blakistone, during her change of command ceremony on 28 April in Coronado, CA. ®

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. NAVY

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORIDA TODAY

Riefkohl, Class of 1911, Nominated to Receive Medal of Honor After Evidence of Discrimination Discovered

FEATURE

PASSIONATE ADVOCATE

NEW ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AND FOUNDATION PRESIDENT & CEO JEFF WEBB ’95 HOPES HIS JOURNEY INSPIRES OTHERS TO PURSUE PASSION PROJECTS

PHOTO CREDIT JEFF WEBB ’95

J

Former Secretary of the Navy The Honorable John H. Dalton ’64 with Jeff Webb '95 at I-Day on 30 June 2022.

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eff R. Webb ’95 might have left his first meeting in the Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation President’s office without a concrete commitment, but he found a receptive partner.

His Naval Academy class had lost six classmates in the line of duty including three in the Global War on Terror. Members of the Class of 1995 were determined to honor all fallen Naval Academy alumni in perpetuity. They naturally looked toward the Alumni Association and Foundation to collaborate.

The wheels on this endeavor began spinning in 2007 and nothing was going to derail the mission. Webb, who began his tenure as President and CEO of the Alumni Association and Foundation in June 2022, met with his predecessor Byron F. Marchant ’78 in 2009 to pitch his idea and enlist support from the enterprise.

The motivation for this initiative was easy to pinpoint and difficult to shake.

Webb and his classmate Commander Dave Richardson initially envisioned a one-time marathon to honor the Class of 1995’s fallen shipmates.

“It was the feeling that going to funerals wasn’t sufficient to honor our fallen classmates,” Webb said. “Their legacy needed to extend beyond us coming together for their services. We felt

that as a class, we should do something to perpetuate their memory. That started with Run to Honor.”

Run to Honor became one of the three inaugural Shared Interest Groups at the Alumni Association and Foundation, honoring Naval Academy alumni who are lost in combat and training operations.

Webb has remained active with the Alumni Association since that meeting 13 years ago. He served as the Eastern Region Trustee for the Alumni Association for six years and chaired the Board of Trustee’s communications committee. He also led an effort to recruit younger Run To Honor board members such as Pat McConnell ’02, Scan here to visit Virtual who developed the Virtual Memorial Hall.

Memorial Hall website.

Webb, a former SEAL, comes to the Alumni Association and Foundation from the financial services industry, most recently as a Principal with Bessemer Trust. As he settles into his new role, he is committed to hearing from the enterprise’s constituencies. Webb encourages alumni to channel their own passions for service into elevating the programs the organization provides.

Webb and classmate Lieutenant Commander Giovanna K. Meek ’95, USNR (Ret.), left that first meeting with Marchant

in 2009 encouraged. Although no promises were made, he and Meek found a sympathetic ear and potential collaborator.

Unaware of the Alumni Association and Foundation’s process to consider new programs, Webb said he didn’t initially understand why the organization couldn’t move as quickly as Run to Honor leaders had hoped. He came to learn the role the Board of Trustees plays and how new initiatives are vetted and resourced. Webb and his teammates moved Run to Honor forward independently as they assessed the best way to both influence and partner with the Alumni Association and Foundation.

Marchant said Webb’s passion and commitment were evident immediately.

He applauded Webb for helping bring the Alumni Association and Foundation along with his vision for Run to Honor.

He said Webb’s actions exemplified the theme of Theodore Roosevelt ‘Man in the Arena’ speech.

Marchant said Webb, Meek and Richardson willed their vision into reality through effort and persistence. He asked how the enterprise could put its resources behind the initiative. With Run to Honor planting the seed, the enterprise began hosting the annual Honor Our Fallen Heroes event in 2012 where alumni who are killed in combat or in operational losses— and their families— are recognized.

“He is not an alumnus who would just talk about issues or challenges; he led with action and followed with conversation with me,” Marchant said. “I liked that from Jeff from the very beginning …

He represents the 9/11 generation.

He wanted to honor the fallen heroes.

From that one thread, of being a person of action, we now honor eight generations of alumni who have fallen.”

Webb credits Marchant for listening and emphasized the open-door practice will continue with him at the helm.

“If he hadn’t had an open door, we would have kept doing what we were doing, and I would have walked away,” Webb said. “We might have been in competition with the Alumni Association.

“I know that there are alumni out there who care about something that is not on my radar. There is something that is high priority to an alumni that is not a

MajGen Leo V. Williams III ’70, USMCR (Ret.), then-Superintendent VADM Walter E. “Ted” Carter ’81, USN, future Alumni Association and Foundation President and CEO Jeff R. Webb ’95, and then-current Alumni Association and Foundation President and CEO Byron F. Marchant ’78 at the Honor Our Fallen Heroes reception in 2015.

high priority to us that maybe should be a high priority to us. I hope my story will let people know that if you care about something, bring it to us. And if we can’t move at their speed for whatever reason, they don’t need to wait to take action.

What NAMA accomplished with their leadership conference this spring is a perfect embodiment of this mindset.”

IN THE GAME Enthusiasm and passion surface as Webb describes the opportunities awaiting him in his new role. As an Alumni Association regional trustee and chair of its communications committee, Webb was minimally able to shape the enterprise’s direction. Now that he’s in the President and CEO’s chair, he is fully committed to championing programs and policies that benefit alumni and the Naval Academy.

Based on his experiences with the Board of Trustees and Run to Honor, Webb appreciates the successful and thriving volunteer base that form the community’s foundation. Webb is eager to take guidance and feedback from the organization’s various constituencies.

But he said this job appealed to him because of the opportunity to turn those suggestions into action.

“Partly because I got a taste of it as a trustee,” Webb said “But, I wasn’t suiting

“I liked that from Jeff from the very beginning … He represents the 9/11 generation.

He wanted to honor the fallen heroes.

From that one thread, of being a person of action, we now honor eight generations of alumni who have fallen.”

—Byron F. Marchant ’78

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FEATURE up as a trustee. You’re part of the program, so to speak, but you’re not on the field.

The idea of getting on the field was intriguing to me.

A copious notetaker, Webb began his time as President and CEO meeting and listening with members of the alumni community, new colleagues, and Yard leadership. He admits he has much to learn, and welcomes suggestions for improvement.

“It is uniquely fitting that Jeff is the President and CEO of our Alumni Association and Foundation. I know first-hand how deeply he is dedicated to our alumni and families,” said Meek. “He is an unusual mix of intellect, heart and drive.

We are blessed to have Jeff at the helm.”

Webb appreciates the excellent state of the organization as he takes the reins.

He commended Marchant for guiding the Alumni Association and Foundation through the record-breaking, $541 million Called to Serve, Daring to Lead campaign.

“That effort will have a multi-generational impact on the services and programs to support alumni and the Brigade of Midshipmen,” Webb said.

Notably, the enterprise is preparing to move into the new Alumni Association and Foundation Center in summer 2023.

New Alumni Association and Foundation President and CEO Jeff Webb ’95 observing the arrival of the Class of 2026 at Alumni Hall on I-Day, 30 June 2022.

14 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

The new facility will allow the enterprise to better serve its constituents, including hosting reunions and special events.

While Webb will work with Academy and Alumni and Foundation leadership to craft a plan to help meet the challenges of the next decade, he is grateful to those who laid such a solid foundation.

at this point in the Naval Academy's history. He said Webb’s lifetime dedication to the values the Naval Academy instills will help link alumni throughout the Long Blue Line.

“He has been a leader among leaders since our midshipman days, and he has been an active and committed supporter

“We must be evolutionary and responsive to the needs of our alumni. We need to be innovative.”

—Jeff Webb ’95 “I’m stepping into a very successful enterprise,” Webb said.

As he begins prioritizing needs and resources, Webb said he must consider what is necessary for the Alumni Association and Foundation to sustain its success over the next decade. He insists some fundamental elements will remain the bedrock of the organization’s work, but it also must be nimble and able to adapt to arising challenges.

“What made this a successful enterprise over the past 10 years is not what will make it successful the next 10 years,” Webb said. “We will need to change in order to continue our success.

“We must be evolutionary and responsive to the needs of our alumni.

We need to be innovative.”

Webb and his wife, Shannon ’04, represent new perspectives of the Alumni Association and Foundation’s constituencies. Webb said many classmates from his generation are senior in their military careers, whereas some have transitioned into the civilian workforce, while some are eyeing retirement. A common thread among them: Many are positioned to give back to the Academy and seeking avenues to do so.

“My generation is coming into its own,” Webb said. “I am fortunate to have personal and professional connections to multiple decades of classes on either side of me.”

The Honorable Reuben Brigety ’95, who served as brigade commander during his first-class year, said Webb is the perfect leader for the Alumni Association

of the Academy over the decades since our graduation,” Brigety said. “I am personally grateful that he is now dedicating his prodigious talents to strengthen the Alumni Association and supporting the Brigade of Midshipmen in the years to come.”

VISION As the Alumni Association and Foundation prepares for its next chapter, Webb will lean on the experience and wisdom of the Alumni Association Board of Trustees, the Foundation Board of Directors, the Athletic and Scholarship Program Board of Trustees, his colleagues on staff and volunteer leaders across the community to craft a strategic plan that aligns with the Naval Academy’s Strategic Plan 2030.

Webb is committed to meeting and assisting alumni “where they are,” while continuing to deliver the Margin of Excellence to the Academy. The strategic plan will be shaped in the next 18 months and will guide the enterprise for the next decade.

That blueprint will be influenced by the 2021 Alumni Survey Report, Webb said. The survey was taken by more than 5,700 alumni. “That survey is influencing our committee work,” Webb said. “It will also influence the strategic plan.”

The Strategic Plan 2030 committee will be officially launched this summer with members who represent the alumni body across many dimensions.

“We want to get to work,” Webb said.

“The strategic plan will be a guiding light for us and I am excited to kick the process off soon.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEFF WEBB ’95

FAMILY TIES WEBB FAMILY HAS STRONG CONNECTIONS TO ACADEMY

T

he son of a career Air Force Officer, Jeff Webb was first exposed to the Naval Academy in middle school when his father was given orders to the Pentagon. The family spent weekends racing a small sailboat on the Chesapeake.

“Between seeing the Midshipmen out in town in their whites and the initial Top Gun release, I was getting programmed, for lack of a better word, at the perfect age.

After working hard to earn an appointment to the Naval Academy, he arrived feeling confident and prepared. He quickly came to appreciate the quality of the men and women around him. “I was in the half of the class that made the top half possible,” Webb deadpanned.

When Webb was selected as President and CEO, he and his family Webb returned to Annapolis from Philadelphia where he has worked in the wealth management industry for 15 years. His wife Shannon Revell Webb ’04 and three youngest children are excited about the move to Annapolis. Ashtyn, Jeff’s oldest child, will begin her freshman year at Penn State University this fall.

Shannon was on the Superintendent’s List and the track team while at the Academy.

“She was a standout here,” Webb said about Shannon.

“I was not.”

Shannon, a former president of Run to Honor, spent five years as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal officer. As the first CEO spouse who is also an Academy alumna, she said she can provide a unique perspective about life on the Yard and in the Fleet. She said she is eager to find opportunities where she can assist her beloved alma mater.

“I want to be involved with any opportunity that allows me to give back because I was given so much when I was here,” she said.

A series of fortuitous events helped Webb land his new job. He said he was initially reluctant to pursue the opportunity because Shannon was contemplating a career change. However, she was an enthusiastic supporter and his level of interest grew throughout the interview process. The former SEAL liked the questions he was asked, and he was intrigued by the chance to make a larger impact on his alma mater and the alumni community.

With Ashtyn headed to college, the Webb’s were more open to moving than they might have been a year earlier or if Shannon had accepted a new job in Philadelphia.

The Webbs have woven their deep connections to the Academy into their family. Each of their children is named, in part, to honor Naval Academy alumni.

Ashtyn’s name is an homage to a lifelong family friend, Captain James Ashton Dare ’68, USN (Ret.). Webb said he toured a submarine as a high schooler with then Commander Dare, and

Webb children Ethan (3), Eva (4), and Erik (6).

it was then that Webb began to understand the immense leadership responsibilities available to Naval Academy graduates.

The couple’s 6-year-old son, Erik, is named in honor of Lieutenant Commander Erik S. Kristensen ’95, USN, Webb’s classmate. Kristensen, a SEAL, was killed in action in Afghanistan on 28 June 2005 while leading a mission to rescue teammates under fire. Daughter Eva, 4, is named after Shannon’s friend from the Academy. Three-year-old Ethan Draper honors Rear Admiral Draper L. Kauffman ’33, USN (Ret.), who served as the 44th Superintendent of the Naval Academy in the 1960s.

Webb said he has a great partner in Shannon particularly in this new role. He said her link to the Academy and her journey provide insights that are different from his own.

“I know I’ll learn a lot from her as I progress in this role,” he said. “I’ve already learned a lot from her about her experiences in the Navy and the different perspective that may not have occurred to me. There is a lot of opportunity for Shannon to get involved. It’s great that I can share this experience with someone who appreciates it as a spouse and as an alum.”

Teamwork and accountability were ingrained in Webb as a SEAL. He said he will lean on those values as the Alumni Association and Foundation begins a new chapter.

“I’m excited to bring some of what I learned in the SEAL community, bringing some of that culture and spirit to the Alumni Association and Foundation,” he said. “You are working tightly as a team and you have each other’s back. You really know you can count on each other, and you are focused on the mission.”

Shannon said patience and kindness are her husband’s strengths. She said commitment to collaboration will pay dividends in his new job.

“Those traits will serve him really well in this role,” she said. “He’s always willing to listen and hear you out. He doesn’t dismiss feelings or experiences because they were not his feelings or experiences. It makes him a good husband too!” a

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 15

THANK YOU FOR A SUCCESSFUL

6,296

GREAT CLASS CHALLENGE!

27

For the past eight years, the ALL ACADEMY CHALLENGE

6,296 IS A RECORD BREAKING NUMBER OF ALUMNI DONORS

27 CLASSES BEAT THEIR RECORD FOR NUMBER OF DONORS DURING A CHALLENGE

11.55 11.55% ALUMNI PARTICIPATION DURING THE CHALLENGE

has been a great way to compete while providing millions of dollars in support to the Naval Academy.

This year you maintained that competitive

4 FOUR CLASSES MORE THAN DOUBLED PARTICIPATION FROM 2021: 1951, 1992, 1993, 2019

spirit with the GREAT CLASS CHALLENGE. Not surprisingly, many USNA classes broke records during the Challenge, and for the ninth year in a row

56 56 CLASSES MATCHED OR SURPASSED THEIR TOTAL ALUMNI COUNT FROM 2021

the Class of 1965 was the GOAT! We’re looking forward to seeing what you all can do together again in 2023.

$2,211,184 TOTAL AMOUNT DONATED

1984/400 1984 IS THE FIRST CLASS EVER TO SURPASS 400 DONORS DURING THE CHALLENGE AND HELD ONTO THEIR TOP SPOT FOR ALUMNI DONORS FOR THE THIRD YEAR IN A ROW

FIVE MINUTES WITH… STEPHANIE P. DRAKE ’05 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.

Lieutenant Colonel Stephanie P. Drake ’05, USMCR, has been passionate about service since high school. She wouldn’t have predicted a career in the Marine Corps when she arrived in Annapolis, but her experience at the Naval Academy set the foundation for a lifetime of service.

Drake left active duty in 2013, worked a bit in the energy industry, and began serving as executive director of NextOp in August 2019.

NextOp is a Houston nonprofit that helps veterans translate their skills and military experience into civilian careers. The former midfielder for Navy’s women soccer team deployed to Fallujah, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (2007-08). She channels her passion to assisting veterans through NextOp and helping the next generation of midshipmen as a Blue and Gold Officer.

Shipmate: How did your time serving in Iraq with the Marine Corps influence your work with NextOp? Drake: My time as a Marine has given me the opportunity to see and learn from our talented junior service members and understand their impact on our mission. I have certainly learned more from those junior to me than they’ve learned from me. As a reservist, I’m appreciative that I still have the opportunity. Iraq was no different. I had the opportunity to lead the first “Sisters of Fallujah” training team while there and my team of E3-E7 Marines and sailors quickly formed into a high-performing team delivering a new mission in a dynamic environment. Throughout my time in the USMC, I’ve seen my Marines solve problems, form a deep bond among a diverse team of strangers from all different backgrounds, comfort civilians, mentor peers, subordinates and seniors, show maturity beyond their years, have fun with their friends in miserable conditions, go above and beyond, adapt to yet another new mission or task, figure out a better solution than I could have, take extreme ownership and so much more.

Their peers in the civilian world truly do not approach the same level of leadership, life experience and adaptability. The NextOp team and I constantly leverage our personal experience and anecdotes about the E3-E7 middle enlisted population when we share with companies about this talent population and how they will contribute to success. Our team at NextOp absolutely reflects on our military experience to help candidates translate their career expectations and resumes, prepare for interviews, etc. One of my favorite aspects of what we do is coaching company leadership and talent management teams on the middle-enlisted veteran and how to attract, hire and retain these diverse, talented candidates into the right roles in their company.

Shipmate: Why is assisting veterans into the civilian workforce a passion for you?

Drake: On the whole, the country associates a bachelor’s degree with a significant number of roles where real-world technical skill and leadership experience by age 22-26 would be even better. But our young veterans can’t get past the resume software when they don’t meet certification and degree requirements, and their resume looks like an unrecognizable string of acronyms. Without resume support they often appear no different than high school graduates. Never mind that they may have run data networks in Afghanistan, or managed field

warehouses in an austere environment. Too often great talent coming out of the military is overlooked ... or never even seen. Additionally, they don’t know what they don’t know and how their skills and experiences can translate to far more industries and roles than they realize.

Infantry doesn’t mean security. Not all military vehicle operators want to be truck drivers, nor are they limited to doing so professionally.

Not everyone can be a project manager or is qualified to be a civilian project manager.

Human Resources is very different in the corporate world than personnel management in the military. All of these things, and many like them, contribute to the confusion that hinders the most successful transition possible for our young service members. Companies truly want good veteran talent but accessing the right talent beyond the low hanging fruit of degreed officers and staff noncommissioned officers is not intuitive and can become overwhelming. NextOp exists to bridge the gap between middle enlisted and great companies.

Shipmate: What attracted you to the Naval Academy and why did you choose to commission as a Marine Corps officer?

Drake: My initial introduction to the Academy was through Carin Gabarra and Rob Blanck, the Navy women’s soccer coaches, as a recruit. I was a California kid who wasn’t really exposed much to the military growing up and I didn’t know what to expect on my visit to the Academy. I had already visited several colleges at this point and was keeping an open mind, but I don’t think I expected Navy to make the top of my list.

I left that weekend thinking otherwise. I loved the atmosphere. Even in a fun game of basketball with plebes on Friday afternoon there was a competitive air to every activity. Ultimately, I wanted to be surrounded by people like the mids I met, and the challenge and opportunity to serve drew me in further. I took my time making the decision, as I tend to do with big decisions, but even reflecting now cannot imagine taking a different path.

While at the Academy, I similarly took my time to figure out my service assignment preference. During Plebe Summer, I defaulted to “Navy pilot” every time detailers asked what I wanted to service select, no doubt inspired by my Blue and Gold Officer. The firsties on the Navy women’s soccer team when I was a plebe were (and are still) wonderful leaders and people. Most of them service selected USMC which undoubtedly inspired my initial interest.

Moment by moment I slowly realized I wanted to become a Marine and very much appreciate that at the Naval Academy we get a few years and significant exposure before we service select.

One afternoon during Leatherneck, over second-class summer, a young Marine—at most a corporal—taught a large class of us midshipmen about machine guns. This Marine was not only confident and knowledgeable, but also incredibly passionate about sharing his expertise. While there were many things that pointed me in the direction of the USMC, this particular moment cemented the decision.

I wanted to be among Marines, to be with people with palpable passion for what they do and a desire to make those around them better. I remember thinking at the time that it would be a challenge to deserve to lead Marines. I still consider it to be so. ®

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 17

FEATURE

18 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

TOP

GUN

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 19

FEATURE

TOP GUN ON TARGET

ALUMNI ENSURED TOP GUN’S PORTRAYAL OF PILOTS AND FLIGHT SEQUENCES WERE REALISTIC

20 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADM ROBERT F. WILLARD ’73, USN (RET.)

J

ohn H. Semcken ’78 knew the filmmakers’ plan would infuriate his admiral.

Capturing a seminal shot in the original Top Gun took precise planning and a willingness to absorb a severe tongue-lashing. Semcken served as technical advisor and Navy liaison for the 1986 blockbuster produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Tony Scott.

To film Maverick, played by Tom Cruise, buzzing the air traffic control tower, Semcken said the pilot couldn’t leave the confines of Miramar Naval Air Station to conform to FAA guidelines. So, the F-14 had to break over the base. That route meant buzzing the quarters of Rear Admiral Thomas J. Cassidy Jr., Commander, Fighter Airborne Early Warning Wing Pacific.

Semcken said he knew it would take multiple takes to ensure they got a quality shot of the fly-by and that it would require flying over Admiral Cassidy’s quarters , which would not make him happy. He knew the director would only get three takes before the admiral called a “knock it off” on filming.

“I knew it was then that the phones were going to start ringing,” said Semcken, a 1983 graduate of Navy Fighter Weapons School, also known as TOPGUN. When as expected after the first fly-by the phone rang, Semcken bought the director some time by walking past the nearest phone to one further away. Semcken took his expected tongue lashing from the admiral while the second fly-by took place, hung up, then called the admiral after the third fly-by to apologize personally.

Semcken, who was one of several Naval Academy alumni to work on the original Top Gun, was on set every day of filming. He was the first officer and pilot at Miramar to read the script and was assigned

ADM Robert F. Willard ’73, USN (Ret.), was Top Gun’s aerial coordinator.

He constructed flight sequences, prepared safety protocols and assisted with the screenplay prior to filming.

by Admiral Cassidy to oversee the filming. He played an integral role ensuring depictions of Navy pilots were as accurate as possible. He understood Bruckheimer and Scott weren’t making a documentary, but he was committed to helping deliver a film that would be well received by the general public and “make the pilots look as cool as they were.”

He acknowledged the filmmakers did take some creative license.

“No pilot in the Navy would fly-by the tower if the fly-by was denied,” Semcken said. “You’d never fly again. But, that’s Hollywood.”

Professional portrayal

Lieutenant Commander (later Admiral) Robert F. Willard ’73, was a TOPGUN instructor during filming. He was the film’s aerial coordinator and spent several weeks reviewing the screenplay and “battling” with the filmmakers to eliminate flight sequences that were more fantasy than reality.

He said early script drafts included mid-air collisions that would have put the naval aviation community in a bad light. He said he worked with Scott and Bruckheimer to inject realism into the dogfight and training sequences. Willard flew the F-5 (simulating the MiG-28, a fictional threat aircraft) in the movie and he also

ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY OF ADM ROBERT F. WILLARD ’73, USN (RET.)

coordinated all the F-14 crews during the flying sequences. Lieutenant Commander Lloyd “Bozo” Able flew the F-14 equipped with cameras for most of the flight sequence scenes in the movie.

The filmmakers were dedicated to producing a realistic film and integrated nearly all of Willard’s suggestions into the movie.

“We wanted to portray the school as professional,” said Willard whose call sign was “Rat.” Willard appreciated the cinematic vision the filmmakers sought and worked with them to deliver exciting and realistic flight sequences. At times, he said he would reject requests for aerial scenes calling for pilots to fly too low over difficult terrain. Willard said Scott was a gracious partner who would listen to suggestions that were credible, safe and looked great on film. He said the first time they filmed a head-on pass between two airplanes, the results weren’t convincing.

The planes didn’t appear close enough.

So, Willard gained permission from Admiral Cassidy to change the rules of engagement to allow for much closer passes.

The final dogfight scene was laid out on white boards with Willard walking Scott through the engagement scenario. “(Scott) was a visualist and would listen,” Willard said. “He was a willing partner in the whole thing. We thought we had sufficient control over what we wanted. In general, we were flying lower to the ground, closer to each other and slower than we normally would in training.”

While Willard was a stickler for reality, there is one scene that might have been a bit loose with the laws of physics. It is one of the movie’s most memorable and Willard played a central part.

Willard was the MiG pilot Maverick engaged in “international relations” with while inverted during an early flight sequence in Top Gun. “I was the guy who got flipped off,” Willard said.

Masks on

Semcken knew when he first read the script that there were no words in the dogfight scenes. He suggested that Scott add words to the aerial sequences which Scott denied. He was befuddled watching the first dogfight scene the filmmakers cut together. Nothing in the movie should have confused him. He was on set each day of filming, was involved during the creation of the flight sequences, was a TOPGUN graduate and an experienced pilot.

The problem, Semcken said, is the scene resembled a music video with airplanes.

There were no words in the original cut.

It contained zero communication between pilots, the tower or the radar intercept officer (RIO). To the uninitiated viewer, it was just a bunch of planes randomly flying, Semcken said.

On the final day of filming, Semcken convinced Scott to have the actors wear masks during closeup shots in a mockup of an F-14 inside a Burbank, CA, hangar.

He insisted that during the dogfights, pilots wear masks. He withheld the part that masks aren’t needed below 10,000 feet because he knew dialogue was critical to telling a story the audience could understand. Dialogue also added a level of tension and excitement missing from the original cut.

“I knew they needed words,” Semcken said. “I knew the only way they’d be able to add words in the future was if they were wearing masks. I told them, ‘when this movie comes out and they’re not wearing masks, they’ll court martial me.’”

The filmmakers weren’t totally onboard with Semcken’s suggestions, however. It wasn’t until the film’s first cut was ready that the critical change was made. Bruckheimer invited Semcken and Dave “Bio” Baranek, a RIO and TOPGUN instructor, who flew in Rat’s ADM Robert F. Willard ’73, USN (Ret.), worked with Top Gun director Tony Scott to map out dogfight sequences. They would talk each morning and Scott would draw story boards to represent their filming strategies.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 21

FEATURE

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN H. SEMCKEN ’78

JOHN H. SEMCKEN ’78

John H. Semcken ’78, first from the left in the back row, was a technical advisor and Navy Liaison during filming of Top Gun. He called flight maneuvers from the ground during filming.

back seat in the F-5 (MiG-28), to review the movie. Semcken said his recommendations were supported by Baranek who hadn’t been as intimately involved as he was in the day-to-day filming. Semcken said Baranek verified Semcken’s concern the audience wouldn’t understand what was happening during the first dog fight scene.

Semcken reminded Bruckheimer about filming the actors masked in the hangar in Burbank and advised inserting the masked actors into the flight sequences that were in the film. He said he and Baranek could add realistic dialogue to the flight scenes, which the actors were brought back in to record, and editor Chris Lebenzon could cut it into the movie.

Semcken spoke as if he was the pilot (Maverick) and Baranek as if was the RIO (Goose).

Iconic and influential

The reverberations of Top Gun on the aviation community are still felt, Semcken said. He said he regularly hears from senior and former naval aviators and flight officers how the movie influenced their career choice.

Semcken said the sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, could have a similar impact.

“To anyone who sees the movie and is excited, (Navy is) hiring,” Semcken said. “To anyone at the Naval Academy, aviation is an incredibly exciting and rewarding career and it will be accurately portrayed in the film.”

The Navy received some recruiting assistance during that time as Top Gun was the highest grossing film of 1986, according to a Time magazine story from November 1986. It reported: The high-flying hardware turns Top Gun into a 110-minute commercial for the Navy … theater owners in such cities as Los Angeles and Detroit ask(ed) the Navy to set up recruiting exhibits outside cinemas where Top Gun was playing to sign up the young moviegoers intoxicated by the Hollywood fantasy.

Willard said the excitement generated by Top Gun when it was released was obvious. He said it resonated with the younger generation and benefited all forms of service in the aviation community.

“I do believe it had a widespread appeal,” Willard said. “At some level it certainly helped recruitment.” a

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1983 TOPGUN graduate Call Sign: SMEGS Technical Advisor and Navy Liaison for Top Gun • His responsibilities included calling flight maneuvers from the ground during filming; coordinating all locations on the base and was the Navy liaison on board the aircraft carriers; advising on major plot themes, including how Goose dies in a realistic mishap without Maverick being found at-fault, and suggesting the role of Charlie (played by Kelly McGillis) be based on the real-life Christine Fox, a member of the admiral’s staff at the time and a future member of the Naval Academy’s Board of Visitors.

• He was a member of the Glee Club at the Naval Academy and appeared in the bar scene behind Anthony Edwards singing “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin” in Top Gun. He served as an adviser for the 1988 ABC miniseries War and Remembrance.

He is now a real estate developer in Los Angeles, CA.

ADMIRAL ROBERT F. WILLARD ’73, USN (RET.) Former TOPGUN instructor Call Sign: Rat Aerial Coordinator for Top Gun • Worked very closely with Tony Scott, the director of the film.

• His responsibilities included constructing flight sequences, preparing safety protocols and assisting with the screenplay prior to filming.

• Briefed all of the flight crews before and after each flight.

• Insisted unrealistic scenes be removed from the movie.

• He portrayed the MiG pilot who engaged Maverick and Goose in the inverted jet scene.

As a Navy pilot, he had more than 950 carrier landings and 3,500 flight hours.

He commanded TRIPOLI and ABRAHAM LINCOLN in various operations, including Somalia and the Persian Gulf. After selection for flag rank, he served as Deputy Director for Operations in the Joint Staff; Commander, Carrier Group Five; Deputy and Chief of Staff, U.S. Pacific Fleet; Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet; Director, Force Structure, Resources and Assessment, Joint Staff; 34th Vice Chief of Naval Operations; Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet; and Commander, U.S. Pacific Command.

He retired in 2012. He now serves as president and CEO at Institute of Nuclear Power Operations.

He is a 2019 U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Distinguished Graduate Award recipient.

ALUMNI SIBLINGS FOREVER LINKED BY ROLES IN TOP GUN: MAVERICK PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT GARFIELD/PARAMOUNT PICTURES

ieutenant Amy E. Heflin ’11, USN, was determined to carve out her own identity even if she sometimes walked in her big brother’s footsteps. Lieutenant Commander Nicholas E. Lowe ’09, USN, preceded his sister at the Naval Academy and in the naval aviation community.

Their shared commitment to the Navy resulted in a once-in-a-lifetime experience as each participated in the filming of Top Gun: Maverick. Heflin received some screen time as a stunt double and technical advisor to the Top Gun sequel that was released on 27 May. Lowe served as landing signal officer during filming on THEODORE ROOSEVELT in 2019.

Heflin flew an F/A-18F Super Hornet in March 2019 as stunt double for actress Monica Barbaro, who played Phoenix.

Barbaro was in the back seat with four cameras aimed at her while two more cameras were positioned over Heflin’s shoulder. Sharing such an extraordinary experience—even from halfway across the globe—with her brother was surreal, Heflin said.

“It’s been a real joy,” Heflin said.

“Even from an early age, I followed behind Nick. My fear was to not live in his shadow. We’ve done a good job of keeping that separate. Having this shared experience, I can’t wait for him to get off cruise and see the movie.”

While the siblings didn’t interact during filming—Heflin was flying out of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington state and Lemoore, CA— Lowe said the experience will provide good sea story fodder.

“It’s always been interesting and definitely special having my sister in the same profession,” Lowe said. “The two of us being able to share our stories and experiences from the movie has been great, even if we are halfway around the world from each other.”

Heflin and Lowe were raised in Lubbock, TX, and their father was an aviation junkie with a private pilot’s license. He took them to see the Blue

L

LT Amy E. Heflin ’11, USN, served as stunt double and technical advisor to producers of Top Gun: Maverick.

Angels and Thunderbirds perform. That helped spark Heflin’s love for flying. At the time of Top Gun: Maverick’s release, she was preparing to separate from the Navy and serving as an F-35C Lightning II simulator instructor.

Lowe flew F/A-18s following flight school. He was on the landing signal officer platform for a few days with the Top Gun: Maverick film crew, totaling about 12 hours. Lowe was surprised by the sheer number of support crew and equipment it takes to produce a major motion picture.

He appreciated the technical aspects of filming. Lowe said he also enjoyed watching and interacting with the crew and actors.

“My favorite memory from my time on set was when the Phenom (a Learjet with cameras mounted to it) flew the landing pattern and low approaches to the carrier,” he said. “Another memorable moment was when the stars of the movie came up to the flight deck and LSO platform for recovery of the Air Wing aircraft both during day and night events.”

Lowe said he emphasized safety and realism to his crew during filming.

“I stressed to the squadron LSOs in the Air Wing that I wanted any and all scenes filmed of the LSO platform to look and feel like it would if we were recovering aircraft on deployment,” Lowe said. “The last few seconds of each landing can be the most dangerous and I wanted to ensure that even though there was a film crew there, that safety was the most important priority.”

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 23

FEATURE

Once in a lifetime

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE 2009 LUCKY BAG

Being in the right place at the right time proved fortuitous for Heflin. She was the only female pilot assigned to Striker Fighter Squadron VFA-122 when Top Gun: Maverick producers asked for help with technical assistance in 2018. She was on a shore tour at the time and welcomed the chance to provide guidance for safety and camera locations inside the jets’ cockpits.

The filmmakers were concerned with getting the proper sun angles and lighting correct during the flight sequences, Heflin said. From a personal standpoint, Heflin said she had to pin up her blonde hair, dye the bottom portion of her hair black to resemble Barbaro’s and spray tan her arms and neck to mirror Barbaro’s complexion.

During filming, Barbaro sat behind Heflin wearing an identical uniform as six cameras captured action inside the cockpit.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, not like anything I’ve done before,” Heflin said. “Some of the types of flying we did was incredible, as we tried to utilize the cameras they set up.”

Heflin was impressed with Tom Cruise’s understanding of the aircraft’s capabilities. She said the movie star’s background as a pilot was evident as he asked for guidance with body movement in the cockpit and where his hands should

A page from the 2009 Lucky Bag foreshadows a role LCDR Nicholas E. Lowe ’09, USN, probably didn’t anticipate upon commissioning from the Naval Academy. Lowe served as landing signal officer during filming of Top Gun: Maverick.

be and where his eyes should be looking during flight sequences.

Behind the scenes, TOPGUN instructors helped the actors with tactical guidance. A fake cockpit, made of plywood, was on set and the actors would sit in it and ask the pilots for tips.

“It amazed me how humble and down to earth those actors were,” Heflin said.

“They knew they were making a huge movie and they were still curious about our jobs and how they could portray us better. They wanted to show the Navy and aviation in the best light.”

Authentically capturing the skill and teamwork involved with naval aviation was a critical component for Navy’s partnership with the filmmakers. Heflin said providing an accurate depiction of the aviation community was important to her because of the impact it could have on future pilots.

The film team shared that sentiment, she said.

“When you’re trying to motivate the next generations, you want to show them the level of training it takes and the best instructors,” she said. “It would be disappointing if you got into naval aviation, and it was nothing like the movie. They wanted to do right by the Navy.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT GARFIELD/PARAMOUNT PICTURES

LT Amy E. Heflin ’11, USN, (left) and actress Monica Barbaro are briefed during production of Top Gun: Maverick. Heflin served as Barbaro’s stunt double for the movie.

24 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

While her brother was deployed on THEODORE ROOSEVELT when Top Gun: Maverick premiered, Heflin was invited to walk the red carpet at a 4 May showing hosted by the Navy on Naval Air Station North Island for sailors and local squadrons. She also attended a premier event on MIDWAY with the cast of the movie.

Heflin said the movie, long delayed from its original 26 June 2020 release date, lived up to its commitment to authenticity.

“It was really painful waiting those two years for the movie to come out,” she said. “But it was worth it going to the theater. The aviation scenes were amazing. I can’t stress enough how little (computer generated imagery) was involved. These are real pilots working with the actors.”

Heflin and Lowe said they had seen the original movie and it resonated with them. Lowe said it was one of several influential factors that directed him to the Naval Academy and naval aviation.

Heflin said Top Gun: Maverick could provide the Academy and Navy a boost in interest.

“This movie is going to reinvigorate the nation’s younger generations’ desire to get out there and fly,” Heflin said. “Hopefully, it will spark the interest of the Navy in general and military service in general. I would not be surprised if we saw a spike in the numbers.” a

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER NICHOLAS E. LOWE ’09, USN Call Sign: Thunder Buddy He served as landing signal officer during filming of Top Gun: Maverick on THEODORE ROOSEVELT in 2019.

He serves as operations officer at Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34.

LIEUTENANT AMY E. HEFLIN ’11, USN Call Sign: Bacon Aerial Coordinator for Top Gun • Her responsibilities included providing guidance for safety and camera locations inside the jets’ cockpits; serving as stunt double for actress Monica Barbaro, who played Phoenix.

As Top Gun: Maverick was released in theaters, she was preparing to separate from the Navy and serving as an F-35 simulator instructor.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 25

FEATURE

FORTUNE FAVORS THE BELL CLASS OF 1983 DELIVERS CENTRAL AMERICA’S BELL TO THE ACADEMY

By QuaWanna N. Bannarbie ’99

A

recent permanent addition to the monuments on the National Historic Landmark that is the Naval Academy will serve as a physical reminder of the courage, valor and commitment expected of Naval Academy alumni. Through a series of fortuitous connections and events, the bell used by Commander William Lewis Herndon to alarm passing ships when CENTRAL AMERICA was in distress in 1857 was dedicated near the Herndon Monument on 23 May 2022.

A ceremony attended by the Superintendent, members of the Class of 1983 and those responsible for finding and donating the new Herndon Bell Monument was held moments before the Class of 2025 began their Herndon Climb.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CALIFORNIA GOLD MARKETING GROUP

The bell from CENTRAL AMERICA, which sank in 1857, was donated by Dwight Manley of Brea, CA, to the Naval Academy.

CENTRAL AMERICA’s bell is a unique 268-pound bronze artifact nearly 2 feet tall and measuring 24.5 inches wide at the edge of her flange skirt. It brings history to life from an event that occurred more than 160 years ago, off the coast of the Carolinas. Herndon’s actions at CENTRAL AMERICA’s helm resulted in the saving of 152 passengers. His leadership still inspires Navy and Marine Corps officers. Time-sensitive networking led to this sacred piece of history finding its eternal resting place at the Naval Academy.

How did this responsibility fall to the Class of 1983?

Confluence of Coincidence

Using a remote-controlled submarine in 1988, the 268pound bell from the fabled “Ship of Gold,” CENTRAL AMERICA that sank in 1857, was discovered 7,200 feet under the surface of the Atlantic Ocean.

26 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Commander Stephan J. Shatynski ’83, USNR (Ret.), was having a discussion with his neighbor Dwight Manley when the topic of Commander Herndon came up. Manley, a world-renowned coin collector, also known as a numismatist, with no connection to the Navy beside Shatynski, informed his neighbor that among his many collections, he owned artifacts of CENTRAL AMERICA. Aware that bells of decommissioned ships have been previously donated to Naval History and Heritage Command, Manley proposed finding a permanent home for the bell at the Naval Academy.

Shatynski is a classmate of Superintendent Vice Admiral Sean S. Buck ’83, USN. Unfortunately, it was the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic and arranging talks between Manley and the Academy would not be possible for a year. Manley met the Superintendent and Deputy for Facilities and Construction, Sara Phillips, in August 2021. Buck said with Phillips’ help, “this vision became a reality, and everything fell into place like a Swiss Cheese Model.”

There is an appraisal process for anything offered as a gift to the Naval Academy.

Phillips managed the design and creation of the monument as well as the approval

“The Academy creates individuals who put mission above their person.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

— Lieutenant Commander Stephen L. Fischer ’83, USN (Ret.)

process for the bell before the Memorial Oversight Committee.

If the value of the donation was under $250,000, then the Superintendent could accept the gift on behalf of the Academy.

Higher values required the approval from the Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV).

CENTRAL AMERICA’s bell required the SECNAV’s approval from the Honorable Carlos Del Toro who is also a member of the Class of 1983. Buck said he and his two classmates were uniquely in position for such a time as this.

“This could not have happened without the chemistry of our class,” Buck said. “It could have been a missed opportunity, but everything aligned. I felt a personal responsibility to be in position to have helped make it possible.”

Once the Memorial Oversight Committee and the SECNAV gave the green light for the donation, Class of 1983 President Lieutenant Commander Stephen L. Fischer ’83, USN (Ret.), rallied the rest of the class to get behind the vision. They initiated the “Herndon Bell Monument” fundraiser. The bell’s granite housing cost $35,000. Fischer enlisted the help of a few classmates to create a fundraising video.

The Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation created a crowdfunding site for central receipt of donations.

To launch the fundraiser, Shatynski designed a challenge coin to serve as a fundraising incentive and a memorial to the Herndon Bell Monument. The brass coin bears the 1983 class crest on one side and the other has the coin’s registry number along with the ship’s name S.S. CENTRAL AMERICA and CMDR WILLIAM LEWIS HERNDON USN 1813-1857 around the edge. The embossed artwork depicts the bell located next to the Herndon Monument.

Shatynski sponsored 300 challenge coins to launch the fundraising effort. Any donor who contributed $83 or more would receive a challenge coin and would be recorded among the Special Collections and Archives held by Nimitz Library. Additional coins could be purchased with the proceeds going to the fundraiser.

On 5 March 2022, more than 40 classmates and their spouses attended a fundraiser kickoff aboard the battleship IOWA near Long Beach, CA. Shatynski invited Manley to

Class of 1983 President LCDR Stephen L. Fischer ’83, USN (Ret.), speaks during the dedication ceremony of the bell from CENTRAL AMERICA at the Naval Academy on 23 May. CDR William Lewis Herndon was at the helm when CENTRAL AMERICA went down. His bravery and leadership allowed 152 people to be saved including all women and children who were aboard.

participate. Class representatives presented him with the Class of 1983 Herndon Bell Monument challenge coin.

By 10 March 2022, Fischer announced the initial $35,000 needed for the monument housing and installation was raised. He wasn’t surprised how quickly his classmates answered the call.

“The Academy creates individuals who put mission above their person,” Fischer said.

The Class of 1983 raised nearly double their initial ask by the time the fundraiser closed on 1 June 2022.

The Perpetuity of Herndon’s Legacy When the Columbus-America Discovery Group found the ship wreckage lying more than 7,200 feet below the ocean’s surface, it was the bell (discovered by the deployment of a remote underwater vehicle named “Nemo”) that identified the shipwreck as that of CENTRAL AMERICA, the fabled “Ship of Gold.” The bell along with other non-numismatic artifacts were set aside out of the public eye when the treasure was discovered.

Tons of gold being transported from the California Gold Rush was onboard when the ship encountered a hurricane that rendered it immobile before it sank. More than 400 lives were lost on 12 September 1857. Herndon was able to save 152 passengers including all the women and children.

Manley said the bell represents more than just a nautical tool.

“Things that we place value on, we are just custodians of them,” Manley said.

“This bell is meant to represent the eternal soul of Commander Herndon and his crew.”

Second only to Herndon’s descendants and perhaps locals in Herndon, VA, midshipmen, particularly plebes, value the JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 27

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

FEATURE

Class of 1983 President LCDR Stephen L. Fischer ’83, USN (Ret.), Dwight Manley, Robert Evans and Naval Academy Superintendent VADM Sean S. Buck ’83, USN, partnered to make the Naval Academy the permanent home of CENTRAL AMERICA’s bell. Manley is managing partner of the California Gold Marketing Group, which purchased portions of CENTRAL AMERICA’s bounty in 2000 and 2018. Evans served as principle scientist and historian for the discovery of CENTRAL AMERICA. INFO: The painting was created

by Kristin Otterson Cronic ’11 for the Class of 1983 to gift to the bell donor.

name Herndon. Buck said the Herndon Climb is one of those traditions that connects all classes and alumni. Alumni become the custodians and storytellers of Herndon’s eternal courage and bravery when they share their experience of the Herndon Monument Climb.

Robert Evans, chief scientist and geologist for California Gold Marketing Group, was part of the Columbus-America Discovery Group research team.

He said he’s grateful the bell is at the Naval Academy, its rightful home.

“For it to come from that September day in 1988 when we hauled it from the sea to now see it part of a national monument is one of the most satisfying events I have witnessed regarding the CENTRAL AMERICA,” Evans said. “The sound of the bell is so amazing that it somehow reached across those decades to today in a way that sight does not. It is one thing to look at an artifact, but it is another to hear it.”

Making New History and Reef Points Manley and Evans witnessed the Herndon Monument Climb for the first time in May. The audience included members of Commander Herndon’s family and approximately 30 members of the Class of 1983 including Fischer, Shatynski and Lieutenant Colonel Erica R. Wogaman ’83, USMCR (Ret.).

When Evans learned of plans to bury a time capsule near the base of the monument, he thought of another way CENTRAL AMERICA could support the Brigade of Midshipmen.

In the area of the ocean off the coast of South Carolina, where the shipwreck was found, Evans discovered evidence of marine life called pteropods or “swimming snails.” They are not common in that 28 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

part of the sea so far below the surface. When the research team retrieved the bell and the treasure, they also retrieved gallons of the ocean’s sediment.

The sediment includes rust, coal and other minerals common to this shipwreck. It also consists primarily of “pteropod ooze,” the accumulation of debris and shells of the planktonic organisms that settle to the seabed and became the benthic sediment around CENTRAL AMERICA. With Wogaman’s coordination, Evans arranged to provide samples of the sediment to the Naval Academy Oceanography Department for laboratory research. A vial of that same sediment will be included in the time capsule. Other items that will be added to the time capsule are the coins of the Superintendent, the SECNAV and the Class of 1983; a vintage copy of Reef Points; and the 1983 Lucky Bag. The Class of 1983 considers the time capsule as another historical marker, like the challenge coins, that will connect the class forever. Wogaman suggested presenting the Herndon Bell Monument challenge coins to the Class of 2033 and “charge it to their care” to pass on to their Another Link in the Chain, the Class of 2083. They hope to continue the tradition every 50 years.

Shatynski supports passing on the sense of ownership with regards to the coin.

“It is somewhat emblematic of the legacy of Herndon,” Shatynski said. “His character as a leader is one that is endless.”

The time capsule and the coin pass could potentially take place to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the Class of 1983 graduation. Buck plans to draft a letter to instruct a future Brigade of Midshipmen and the Superintendent’s staff when to open the time capsule. A date has not been decided.

The Superintendent has also directed a new page to be added to Reef Points, the midshipman handbook, that informs the plebes about the new monument and more of Commander Herndon’s naval service.

Plans are underway to install the gray granite housing that matches the Herndon Monument.

The obelisk design represents the timeless reverence given to a leader of power and stature.

This journey of CENTRAL AMERICA’s Bell to the Academy demonstrates the continuation of history making and commitment to building connections through an amazing, global alumni network.

“I am a big believer in the idea that everything happens for a reason,” Buck said. “I believe the future of the Navy is represented here at the Naval Academy. I wish that future plebe classes and all midshipmen will consider the example and character of Commander Herndon as they develop in their leadership.” a

TIMELINE

S.S. CENTRAL AMERICA BELL JOURNEY TO USNA

12 SEPTEMBER 1857 CENTRAL AMERICA sank in a hurricane off the coast of South Carolina.

OCTOBER 1983 Columbus-America Discovery Group increased their focused research to locate the CENTRAL AMERICA shipwreck.

1988 Bell discovered on the ocean floor 7,200 feet below the ocean’s surface.

11 SEPTEMBER 1988 Columbus Discovery Group retrieves the bell from the ocean to confirm that the shipwreck is CENTRAL AMERICA.

1990-1993 Court disputes over the numismatic articles and artifacts in Federal District Court in Norfolk, VA. Columbus-America Discovery Group retained ownership of the bell and the other non-numismatic artifacts, under the original 1990 court decision.

1992 CENTRAL AMERICA Bell on display in Columbus, OH, Museum of Art.

1993 CENTRAL AMERICA Bell on display at the Columbus, OH, Zoo.

1999 Dwight Manley acquires the numismatic artifacts within the estate of the CENTRAL AMERICA.

2000 Dwight Manley begins his “Ship of Gold” exhibit to display the treasures.

(Note: The bell was not a part of this display).

1993-2020 Bell undergoes the process of leaching away the salts (desalinating) and allowing it to reach a neutral and stable state. This storage was in practice right after the recovery (1988) and continued until 2020.

2020 Manley acquires the bell and the other non-numismatic artifacts from Columbus-America Discovery Group in a court-approved sale.

2020 Manley reaches out to his friend CDR Stephan Shatynski ’83, USN (Ret.), to propose the CENTRAL AMERICA Bell as a gift donation to the Naval Academy.

AUGUST 2021 Shatynski arranges for Dwight Manley to meet with the Naval Academy Superintendent, VADM Sean S. Buck ’83, USN.

5 MARCH 2022 Class of 1983 hosts fundraiser launch aboard the battleship IOWA near Long Beach, CA, and presents Dwight Manley with the challenge coins that Stephan Shatynski designed for the fundraiser incentive.

15 MARCH 2022 Chief Scientist and Geologist, Robert Evans meets with Naval Academy Architect Sara Phillips, to escort the bell to the Naval Academy warehouse in preparation for the installation on the Yard.

22 MAY 2022 CENTRAL AMERICA Bell is installed near the Herndon Monument at the Naval Academy.

23 MAY 2022 CENTRAL AMERICA Bell is officially dedicated prior to the Class of 2025’s Herndon Monument climb.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 29

FEATURE

“

MY LEADERS SAW SOMETHING IN ME TO NOMINATE ME. … IT’S HARD TO MAKE IT HERE BY YOURSELF. AS AN OFFICER, THEY TELL US TO ALWAYS TAKE CARE OF YOUR MARINES AND SAILORS. IT ALL TIES INTO YOUR MORALS TO BE THAT LEADER. —ENSIGN ALEXIS C. BELL ’22, USN

30 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’’

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

A SIMPLE TEXT

ENS Alexis C. Bell ’22, USN, was a finalist for the 2022 Yeardley Reynolds Love Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes collegiate lacrosse players who demonstrate kindness and generosity. Bell’s compassion and leadership surfaced during the COVID-19 pandemic as she made efforts to keep her teammates engaged and connected. She was also a 2022 First Team All-Patriot League selection.

E

nsign Alexis C. Bell ’22, USN, realized a few words of encouragement to a teammate might provide a bit of light in an uncertain and dreary time. Bell, a defender on Navy’s lacrosse team, was instrumental in helping her classmates and teammates weather the doldrums when they were confined to Bancroft Hall during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sometimes, Bell checked in with a text. Other times, she might suggest a walk or a game of volleyball. Human interaction and exhibiting empathy were the goals.

“That was a really hard time for everybody,” said Bell, a 2022 First Team All-Patriot League selection. “That taught me you have to go out of your way for your people.

So many people struggle without voicing it. People were struggling and just having someone ask how they were, made a difference. You have to be proactive and know your friends and teammates well enough just to check on your people.”

Bell exemplifies the Class of 2022’s perseverance. Members of the class were youngsters when the pandemic hit. They spent part of their time at the Academy learning remotely. Safety protocols changed often, so they adapted. They lost liberty and the chance to compete in the athletic arena.

They demonstrated the resolve and flexibility they’ll need as junior officers.

Bell said the Class of 2022 takes pride in overcoming unprecedented challenges to ensure the leadership values they were met with during their I-Day are passed along to their successors.

Bell was named a finalist for the 2022 Yeardley Reynolds Love Unsung Hero Award by the One Love Foundation in May. This is the second year Bell has been named a finalist for the award which recognizes lacrosse athletes who demonstrate kindness and generosity and who make a significant contribution to the team while also bringing joy to teammates.

Navy Women’s Lacrosse Coach Cindy Timchal said Bell’s compassion and leadership were evident during the darkest times of the pandemic. It was particularly true in spring 2020 when the lacrosse team’s season was canceled.

Timchal applauded Bell’s ability to put others before herself. That leadership style resonates with her teammates and she personifies the traits the Unsung Hero Award honors, Timchal said.

“She was the person who wants to help in any way,” Timchal said. “She took over for what we coaches couldn’t. We couldn’t be there every moment. I can’t say enough for what Alexis Bell has meant to our team. She’s willing to do what’s best for everyone.”

When the 2020 season shut down, Bell said it was imperative for the players to interact. The Yard was on lockdown. No season meant no practices which left a void in the midshipmen’s schedule.

Bell said she was committed to ensuring no one was left alone. She knew the firsties on the 2020 team were hit particularly hard. While other college athletes were afforded an extra year by the NCAA, Bell’s teammates were headed to the fleet and Marine Corps.

“We had to develop little ways to find each other and make sure no one was settling in that silent hole,” said Bell, who service assigned naval flight officer and headed to flight school following commissioning. “My heart ached for the seniors who didn’t get to finish that season. Seeing it as a senior now, I can’t imagine what it was like for them. I felt a little bit at loss for what to do with my time.”

Being nominated, and becoming a finalist, for the Unsung Hero Award was an honor, Bell said, because it represents what her coaches saw in her. Character is central to the award and Bell said that trait is integral to becoming a leader.

“It means a lot that it was a character type of thing, it means a lot to me as a person,” Bell said. “My leaders saw something in me to nominate me. A person of good character is selfless and there’s no room to be selfish here. It’s hard to make it here by yourself. As an officer, they tell us to always take care of your Marines and sailors. It all ties into your morals to be that leader.”

Bell said her mother, Tamara, has always been a source of support and encouragement. She credited her mother for shaping her personality and being the biggest cheerleader for her and her four siblings.

“My mom has always been an angel on my shoulder lifting me up,” Bell said. “She was our biggest supporter, our biggest fan.

She never let me doubt myself. I struggled (at the Academy) when I first got here. She was the confidence I needed until I had my own.”

As the last class to have experienced the Academy prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bell said it was incumbent on the Class of 2022 to leave the Yard the way they found it. Sustaining and passing along the leadership values, the Class of 2022 inherited is important to Bell and her classmates.

As members of the Class of 2022 enter the fleet and Marine Corps, Bell said they leave the Academy knowing they overcame unprecedented challenges.

“Our officers have told us that we’re in charge of leaving leadership values like they were before COVID,” she said. “They told us to make sure it goes back to the traditions that shaped us as we went into our first class year and shaping the plebes.

“It was eye-opening because we experienced what nobody else had. You had to go with the flow. There was always something that came up that changed. That will make us tougher in the end and we’ll be able to adapt and be flexibility.

We’ll know how to face that directly in our lives.” a

FEATURE

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2025 TESTED THEIR STRENGTH, STAMINA AND TEAMWORK DURING SEA TRIALS ON 17 MAY.

32 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

RESILIENCY REWARDED T

he Class of 2022’s graduation and commissioning on 27 May capped a week full of pageantry and tradition that was interrupted the past two years by the COVID-19 pandemic. The members of the class persevered through the loss of liberty, remote learning and uncertainty that upended traditional Naval Academy norms.

The Class of 2022 leaves the Yard as the last class that knew the Academy’s rhythms and traditions prior to the pandemic. It was their mission to restore that order and ensure future classes experience the challenges, responsibilities and traditions they experienced prior to 2020.

The Class of 2023 held its Ring Dance in Dahlgren Hall on 21 May. The Class of 2024 was treated to a Youngster Luau on 18 May and joined by their Another Link in the Chain 50-year counterparts from the Class of 1974. The day before, members of the Class of 2025 tested themselves during Sea Trials.

Their plebe year came to an official close on 23 May when they completed the Herndon Monument climb. The Blue Angels, in their F/A-18 Super Hornets, wowed crowds with their aerial showmanship and skill above the Naval Academy on 25 May. Bravo Zulu Class of 2022! Good luck as junior officers in the Navy and Marine Corps.

THE CLASS OF 2024 ENJOYED GAMES, FOOD AND CAMARADERIE DURING THE YOUNGSTER LUAU ON 18 MAY. JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 33

PHOTO BY DEBBIE LATTA

FEATURE

PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA

THE CLASS OF 2023’S RING DANCE WAS HELD IN DAHLGREN HALL ON 21 MAY.

PHOTO BY DEBBIE LATTA

PHOTO BY KELLY ESKELSEN

MIDN NICHOLAS J. MCGOWAN ’25 CAPPED THE CLASS OF 2025’S PLEBE YEAR BY TOPPING THE HERNDON MONUMENT WITH AN UPPERCLASSMEN’S COVER AT THE 3:36:58 MARK ON 23 MAY.

THE 8TH & I SILENT DRILL TEAM PERFORMED ON WORDEN FIELD ON 24 MAY.

34 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

THE BLUE ANGELS PERFORMED ABOVE THE NAVAL ACADEMY ON 25 MAY.

PHOTO BY DEBBIE LATTA

MEMBERS OF THE BRIGADE OF MIDSHIPMEN TAKE A DIP IN THE RADFORD TERRACE WATER FOUNTAIN FOLLOWING THE 26 MAY COLOR PARADE.

AS PART OF THE ANOTHER LINK IN THE CHAIN PROGRAM, MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 1972 PRESENT THE CLASS OF 2022 WITH THEIR GOLD BARS AT GRADUATION AND COMMISSIONING ON 27 MAY.

THE CLASS OF 2022 CELEBRATES GRADUATION WITH A TRADITIONAL COVER TOSS.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 35

FEATURE

IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE HARD

By Dan A. Nygaard ’87

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN A. NYGAARD ’87

A

Dan A. Nygaard ’87 with his son, Adam ’22, during Commissioning Week 2022. Nygaard said he delivered the same advice to Adam that his father gave him: Succeeding at the Naval Academy is not easy, but it will prepare you to meet life’s challenges.

36 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

fter the longest nine months of my life, I was done. The constant pressure I felt during my plebe year at the Naval Academy had finally worn me out.

The overloaded schedule of military training, challenging classes, athletics and the seemingly random orders of upperclassmen took its toll. As a bonus, I had a youngster tormentor whose personal mission was to make me quit.

Youngsters traditionally help plebes but he was different, making the harassment even harder to take. When I escaped the madness by going home on spring break, I did not want to return.

When my dad walked by, he saw college literature spread over the kitchen table along with my former applications.

“What are you doing?” was the question that broke open the floodgates.

In the next ten minutes, I ranted about how miserable it was at the Academy, how the place was full of nonsense and how I had enough. I shared with him my frustrations, my ill will towards my tormentor and the program and how I was better off doing something different. He listened without interruption and waited for me to get it all out. When I was done, I expected Dad to give me the same advice he gave me a year earlier when I was deciding whether to accept an appointment to the Academy. He told me then, “You do what you want to do.” This time it was different.

“I’m surprised to hear you are quitting. I didn’t realize that I raised a baby.” After the initial shock of his words, I muttered something about him not

knowing what it was like and how hard it was. He then said something that changed my life.

“It’s supposed to be hard. That’s the point. It’s supposed to be hard. The Academy wouldn’t be worthwhile if it wasn’t.”

He told me not to throw away a great opportunity because I was feeling sorry for myself. “Life is hard, get used to it.

Now get back there and finish your job,” was the last thing I heard before I stopped listening.

A few days later I boarded the plane back to the Academy without a word spoken to my father, who was now the focus of my anger. For the next month, I didn’t reply to calls or letters, so my parents called the Academy to see if I was still there. When I finally calmed down, the end of my plebe year was in sight, and I was getting ready to board a ship in Australia as part of my summer training.

After a month at sea and in various ports, I flew home for some R&R and made amends. Three years later, I told Dad he was right when I gave him the engraved watch I received for an academic award before graduation.

At a critical moment of my life, he told me what I needed to hear.

“It’s supposed to be hard” is advice I’ve relayed to my kids as they have been challenged in their young lives. I also made sure my son, Adam, understood that lesson clearly before he was sworn in with the Class of 2022 on I-Day. As he graduates and begins flight school, I know the hard Naval Academy program has prepared him well for what’s next.

That’s the point. a

FEATURE

MILLENNIALS TAKING COMMAND MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2005 ARE BEGINNING TO TAKE THE HELM AS COMMANDING OFFICERS IN THE FLEET

PHOTO COURTESY OF CDR DOUG A. ROBB ’05, USN

By Mike Berardino

Naval Academy classmates CDR Grant Bryan ’05, USN, (left) is commanding officer of BARRY while CDR Doug A. Robb ’05, USN, is commanding officer of SPRUANCE. Their ships were moored across from each other at a pier in Yokosuka, Japan.

38 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

C

ommander Grant Bryan ’05, USN, and his contemporaries from the Naval Academy have heard all the millennial jokes. They’ve been branded as the generation of participation trophies and Millennial Monopoly, where players just travel around the board paying rent and never buying anything.

Once the laughter dies down, however, Bryan and a handful of other high-achieving ’05s get back to work. Drawing upon their unique experiences and perspectives, which include entering the Naval Academy just before 9/11, they are leading in distinctive and inventive ways that just might carry unexpected benefits for the nation which depends on their clear-eyed motivational techniques.

“In order to keep sailors, leaders need to help them get to the ‘why,’” Bryan said in an email response from BARRY, where he serves as commanding officer. “This is something millennials do well. It’s not about sugar-coating anything, but it’s about bringing the younger generations into the conversation on how to win.”

Chain of command sanctity remains, but for younger commanders there’s a willingness to solicit and consider suggestions from those in junior roles.

A good idea is a good idea, regardless of its genesis.

Millennials, generally defined as those born between 1981 and 1996, tend not to feel threatened as they explore these new dynamics.

“There’s a bit more empathy required when keeping sailors. It isn’t as easy as throwing a pension at them,” Bryan said. “At the end of the day, it’s not the pay structure that you want being the driving force behind service to our country. It helps, but getting to the why, idealistic leadership and developing teams requires more than just the basic incentive structure our predecessors used for decades. You have to work to keep the right sailors.”

In an era where even first-year Notre Dame Football Coach Marcus Freeman had “Challenge Everything” T-shirts printed for his entire roster, the longstanding notion of “My Way or The Highway” might no longer apply. Freeman, a classic millennial at 36, happens to be the son of a retired 26-year Air Force veteran.

PHOTOS COURTESY CDR ANTONIA K. SHEY ’05, USN

TALK TO YOUR SAILORS Commander Antonia Shey ’05, USN, commanding officer of MCFAUL, references her experience as an aide-de-camp to an Air Force general when asked to identify the most important leadership lesson she has learned thus far.

It’s about engagement, connection and communication with those under her watch.

“Walk around and talk to your sailors,” Shey said in an email. “(The general) always stressed the importance of talking to your team at all levels.

He would go on walkabouts around the building and come back with the best intel.”

In addition to being seen as more human, Shey also finds her walkabouts to be extremely informative.

“I learn so much—what equipment is broken, what sailors are having issues, what the latest gossip is and where improvements can be made,” she said.

“I also get an opportunity to make sure sailors’ questions are answered and they are hearing the message. It’s also the best part of the day because I get to see the sailors in action doing maintenance or standing watch or practicing their profession.”

Through those interactions, Shey keeps her finger on the pulse of MCFAUL. That includes the ebbs and flows of sailors’ emotions and mental challenges, areas that might have been taken for granted in prior eras.

The topic gained national media attention this spring after GEORGE WASHINGTON, docked for maintenance in Newport News, VA, reported three suicides in the span of one week in April. That meant a total of five suicides had been reported over the previous year on the carrier, which had about 400 sailors living aboard the ship out of 2,700 overall assignments.

“Mental health has not been a primary focus for previous generations, but now it’s something I talk about daily with sailors,” Shey said. “Engaging sailors and letting them know what resources are out there and how to seek help is now a leadership requirement.”

That emphasis has changed markedly, Commander Shey maintains, since her early days as a division officer and department head.

“Now it is vitally important to focus on providing the right resources early to ensure that sailors are supported and cared for,” Shey said. “I value people and relationships. I think my generation—early Facebook users—looks for connections and relationships.”

Other modern leadership traits among millennials seem to include a willingness to embrace technology and an eagerness to streamline administrative burdens that often frustrate the younger generation.

Use of 3D printing while at sea and ashore is one example of how the Surface Fleet is finding ways to stretch its available budget through technology.

“It is about finding creative ways to be self-sufficient,” Shey said.

The concept is not without its hurdles.

“Embracing tech can be a challenge depending on reliability,” Bryan said. “For the most part, my generation remains skeptical on how reliable technology really is, but when forced to adapt to upgrades and new ways of using tech, I don’t think there’s a stronger generation of leaders than millennials.

We can win a fight with or without the tech.”

That’s not to say every newly promoted millennial is on board with the notion of distinctive leadership.

Commander Doug Robb ’05, USN, co-author of the Naval Officer’s Guide to the Pentagon and since early April commanding officer of SPRUANCE in the Western Pacific, believes there is a “timelessness of command and leadership” that mere generational labels cannot override.

“The principles of command endure; they are not fleeting or ephemeral,” Robb said in an email. “My Naval Academy class isn’t all that different from the classes who graduated in the years leading up to World War II or Vietnam. Though we may have entered and left Annapolis during very different geopolitical realities, the simple fact is we would serve and are simply following through on that commitment.” a Mike Berardino is based in South Bend, IN.

CDR Antonia Shey ’05, USN, and classmate CDR Grant Bryan ’05, USN, are now commanding officers in the fleet.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 39

FEATURE

ALUMNI TRAVEL CELEBRATES GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY C

ommander Lawrence “Skid” Heyworth III ’70, USN, (Ret.), made unexpected lifelong connections thanks to a chance to explore new destinations.

As the Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation celebrates the 50th anniversary of its Alumni Travel Program this year, Heyworth said benefits go far beyond sight-seeing. In 2007, 16 different guided trips and cruises were added to the catalogue including India, Egypt, Japan, Scotland, Alaska, Thailand, Panama and China Heyworth, the former Alumni Association and Foundation executive vice president for engagement, and his wife, Marijo, took advantage of the new locations. They signed up for Scotland almost as soon as it was offered. The trip marked their first—and favorite—of many they would eventually take with the travel program.

“It was our first trip with the program, and we didn’t know what to expect,” Heyworth said. “We ended up making lifelong friends and booked our next trip just a few months later. It brings an entirely different feel to the travel experience to go through it with fellow alumni and people you share a special background with.”

2022 marks 50 years of Alumni Travel and the program is more successful and robust than ever despite the effects the pandemic had on many travel groups.

Over the five decades since the Board of Trustees approved its trial run, the Alumni Travel Program continues to expand its opportunities as part of organization’s commitment to lifelong learning and support of Academy alumni.

In October 1971, the Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustees (BOT) gathered at Alumni House in Annapolis, MD, for their final formal 40 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

meeting of the year. Items on the agenda for the two-day meeting included an adjustment in Life Membership fees, new alumni chapters and facility renovations.

The majority of matters were discussed at length but ultimately referred to committees or deferred for further study

Ad from the March 1972 issue of Shipmate promoting the first trip for Alumni Travel.

“This London tour was advertised only to alumni on the coastal area from New York to Norfolk as a trial of alumni interest in such programs. The result was so successful we hope to develop a more extensive, national tour program with perhaps four or five different tours annually. I will be most interested in hearing comments or recommendations from alumni to help in its development.

Please write.”

—Captain W.S. Busik ’43, USN (Ret.) Executive Director, USNA Alumni Association From the July-August 1972 issue of Shipmate.

except for two initiatives unanimously approved by the board: a new alumni chapter in Jacksonville, FL, was approved for certification by the national Association as well as a trial run for an alumni group travel program.

Many alumni associations—including the United States Military Academy at West Point—had well-established tour programs offered to their constituents by the late 1960s. The Naval Academy Alumni Association’s Board was eager to test whether there was sufficient interest to warrant developing a similar program.

They approved a trial run of a European tour for members.

The initial offering was extended only to the Washington–Baltimore–Annapolis area due to its high concentration of members and the Board agreed to discuss further developments pending the results of the trial.

Five months after the BOT approved a trial run, the Alumni Association ran an article/ad in the front of the March 1972 issue of Shipmate magazine titled: “Alumni to Visit Swinging London in May,” promoting Alumni Association interest in developing a foreign tour program and sponsoring a trial one-week tour to London, England, from 7 to 14 May. It was described as “not an ordinary ‘group tour,’ but a travel experience planned with utmost care to give Alumni a delightful week in the British Capital” and included nonstop flights from Washington’s Dulles Airport via airline TWA. The trip included deluxe accommodations at the London Hilton, breakfast each day, four dinners at the finest restaurants, a cocktail party every night, a theater ticket and ample leisure time to wander about London for a total cost of $379.

“Swinging London” was so successful the Board of Trustees approved the addition of four different trip itinerary options for 1973-74 including a 10-day Caribbean cruise aboard Holland America Cruise line, an eight-day fiesta in Spain, two weeks in Hawaii and 12 days in Greece. The information for each trip appeared in the September-October issue of Shipmate just six months after the trial was first announced.

F.D. McCorkle, Class of 1926, and his wife, Sarah, were among the 150 who attended the travel program’s 1974 trip to Greece and the Greek Islands. He shared his experience in a letter submitted to the Shipmate’s feedback section, “The Mail Boat,” printed in the July-August 1974 issue of the magazine.

“This was a splendidly organized and efficiently conducted tour. Moreover, it was put together with imagination and with special attention to the ancient significant historical developments of the Grecian Mediterranean society. Insofar as we are concerned, the program did more

than a fine job and we hope to take many trips in the future,” McCorkle wrote.

The Alumni travel program continued to grow steadily every year and by the late 1980s its catalog included dozens of trips to countries all over the world including Ireland—where alumni, family and friends could perfect a personal pour of a creamy black pint of Guinness while visiting the history-soaked capital of Dublin. They could tour Italy’s wine and olive country while staying overnight in a medieval castle—but the program’s mission remained the same: to provide a service for our alumni; to give alumni unique travel opportunities at good prices and the chance to travel with like-minded people who share similar life experiences.

The travel program continued to expand its catalog throughout the 2010s ensuring the itineraries offered were suitable for individuals and groups alike.

Tim Tinsley ’59—along with Chris Carlson ’69 and his wife, Becky—joined a large group of members of the Class of 1959 in Provence for a trip included in the 2019

travel program where they visited the 14th century papal palace in the city of Avignon, UNESCO World Heritagedesignated Pont du Gard and vast rolling vineyards. Tinsley shared his group’s experiences in a submission printed in the Class of 1959’s section of the 2019 June-July issue of Shipmate.

“We toured incredible Beaujolais and Burgundy castles next to vineyards where we were treated to three wine tastings— one conducted by an original family count/owner occupant of a picturesque medieval fortress and had nightly happy hours with the 1959ers. Experiencing it with my fellow graduates while having the opportunity to learn from their past experiences while creating new ones together was special and something I’ll never forget,” Tinsley said.

If you’re interested in the highest quality travel experience through meaningful partnerships with experienced travel partners and experiencing it all with Naval Academy graduates, parents and friends, visit www.usna.com/travel to view current itineraries and learn more. a

AN OCEAN AWAY

SERVICE EQUALS SUCCESS

By Lieutenant Kathleen M. Barrios ’18, USN

S

eek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people.” Chief Tecumseh’s “Live your Life” poem is the cornerstone on which my leadership style rests and it laid the foundation for how I lead my division, my peers and all those under my influence.

As a young midshipman at the Naval Academy, with dreams and aspirations of being a successful naval officer, I often reflected on what my true purpose was going to be. I yearned for a mentor to teach me the way to be a leader, a coach who believed in me or a teacher who took that extra step to ensure I was going to be successful.

I was looking outward for those around me to validate my potential and after stumbling across this poem, my purpose was right in front of me—to serve. It was not until I viewed myself as a leader that I began to learn what service to others truly means.

As a Surface Warfare Officer with sailors under my charge, it is my duty and passion to uplift, encourage and challenge them to put maximum effort into each day. It’s my role to be the servant leader, a good example and to ensure they have the tools to be successful. This mindset did not come instantaneously, but it began to develop as I started to believe in myself and continues to evolve as I challenge myself to become a more effective leader each day.

Act Now. There’s no secret formula to leadership and you’re wasting your precious days on this earth if you wait to lead until you’re truly ready. You never know who you will inspire or who’s on their last straw and needs you to step up today.

42 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

PHOTO COURTESY OF U.S. NAVY, BY CTR2 CHASE ROACH

“

LT Kathleen Barrios ’18, USN, assigned to ARLEIGH BURKE-class guided missile destroyer FORREST SHERMAN, uses a sextant to gather range data in preparation for an underway replenishment.

Build Your Team. As a leader, it’s important to reflect on what message you are preaching to your sailors, your peers and your friends. Succeed together and fail together, but always get back up.

Persevere. Do not let the doubt of the world around you stop you from accomplishing what you’ve always set your mind on. Hard work and confidence will allow you to accomplish things far beyond what you ever imagined.

Service. This word may seem small, ordinary or even insignificant. But it’s in the smallest moments, the crucial moments, where others would just turn and walk the other way, where sacrifice and selflessness meet to rise above mediocrity and true leadership shines through. Success in leadership is not

signified by anything other than how well you served those around you.

And in the words of Tecumseh, “When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song and die like a hero going home.” a LT Kathleen Barrios ’18, USN, serves as the fire control officer onboard FORREST SHERMAN out of Norfolk, VA. Originally from Raleigh, NC, she commissioned in the United States Naval Academy Class of 2018 and served aboard ESSEX for her first division officer tour. She is married to fellow surface warfare officer, LT Garrett Barrios ’18, USN, the damage control assistant onboard MCFAUL.

BRAVO ZULU 1960s

’68: Tom Hayes, was named the vice president of the Seawolf Association, the fraternal organization created in 1987 to perpetuate the history of the Navy’s elite Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three during the Vietnam War and to strengthen the squadron members’ friendships. More than 100 Naval Academy alumni served as Seawolves during the squadron’s five years of commissioned service —including 25 members of the Class of 1968.

1970s ’73: Paul Hendrickson, was nominated and selected as the Connecticut Association of School Business Officials’ Celebrated Connecticut School Business Official. ’79: CAPT Charles R. Wright, USN (Ret.), has been inducted into the Society of Golden Eagles, a select group of retired naval aviators.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. NAVY

’63: CAPT James H. Czerwonky, USN (Ret.), was presented his second Navy Meritorious Public Service Award on the cusp of his retirement as a Blue and Gold Officer with 40 years of service by VADM Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. ’81, USN (Ret.), former Naval Academy Superintendent. Czerwonky is a long-time member of the USNA Alumni Association and Foundation President’s Circle and was elected as vice president of The Army and Navy Club in Farragut Square in Washington, DC.

Herlands ’00 Relieves Casey ’97 as Commander, Navy Cyber Warfare Development Group

CAPT Ann Casey ’97, USN, has spent the last three years at the helm of the Navy Warfare Development Group.

1980s ’82: Kevin F. Brown, was selected as a Top Cyber Exec to Watch in 2022 by Washington Exec for his achievements in creating a cybersecurity strategy and organization from the ground up as senior vice president and chief information security officer of SAIC. ’83: Andy Griffith, has been promoted by the U.S. Department of Energy to the position of deputy assistant secretary for nuclear fuel cycle and supply chain.

Captain Ann Casey ’97, USN, was relieved by Captain Michael Herlands ’00, USN, as commander, Navy Cyber Warfare Development Group, during a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Naval Institute on 17 June. A private reception was held immediately following the ceremony.

Casey assumed command of the Navy Cyber Warfare Development Group in August 2019. She is fully joint qualified and a member of the Acquisition Professional Community as a program manager level III and a systems engineer level III. She has also served as a 2017 Supreme Court statecraft fellow and a Massachusetts Institute of Technology seminar XXI fellow, Class of 2019-2020. ®

Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas where she will conduct scientific research on the natural history of the Bahamas’ only endemic frog species starting in the fall 2022.

1990s ’90: Anthony Ohl, has been selected to serve as board chair for the Providence Health and Services, Northwest Washington Region Community Mission board.

’91: Michiko Martin, assumed command as one of the nation’s nine regional foresters for the Southwestern Region of the U.S. Forest Service with area of responsibility covering 20.6 million acres in 11 national forests in ’85: VADM Andrew L. Lewis, USN Arizona and New Mexico and (Ret.), has been appointed as board three national grasslands in New member of Empire Petroleum, an oil Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. and gas company producing assets in Texas, Louisiana, North Dakota, ’95: Jeff Webb became President Minnesota and New Mexico. and CEO of the Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation ’88: CAPT Kristin Bakkegard, in June.

USNR (Ret.), Ph.D., received a ’84: Gary F. Hoy, has been selected as the new human resource director for the Georgia Attorney General’s Office and Georgia Department of Law.

’98: CAPT Aaron Shoemaker, USN, relieved CAPT Kevin Pickard Jr. USN, as commanding officer, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella during a change of command ceremony onboard NAS Sigonella (Aeroporto Aeronautica Militare di Sigonella) in April. Greg Pawson, has been selected as chief executive officer, Card-Monroe Corp. ’99: CAPT Elizabeth Regoli, USN, assumed command of Naval Air Station Key West in May for the next three years after most recently serving as the Naval Academy’s sexual assault prevention and response program manager. Kevin Navas, has been named chief operating officer of U.S. Orthopedic Partners, the rapidly expanding network for private orthopedic practices in the southern U.S.

2000s ’01: Roland Backhaus, has been selected as vice president of strategic engagements for Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation.

Do you know someone who deserves a Bravo Zulu? Send to comms@usna.com.

ALUMNI MENTORING PROGRAM Open to all Naval Academy alumni, AMP is about alumni helping alumni achieve more in their careers and lives. Register with AMP today to be a mentor, protégé or both.

Visit www.usna.com/amp

44 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

ALUMNI PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

25-26 AUGUST

2022 SAN DIEGO, CA

Looking for a

new career opportunity?

Join us for the San Diego Service Academy Career Conference.

SACC@usna.com • sacc-jobfair.com

ALUMNI BUSINESS DIRECTORY Many Naval Academy alumni go on to launch and/or own businesses in a wide variety of vital industries.

The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation launched a business directory in 2020 to spotlight alumni entrepreneurs. Alumni can search the business directory by class, location or industry. To sign up or to locate an alumni owned business, visit www.usna.com/ alumni-businesses.

Questions, please email USNAAlumniBusiness@usna.com Inclusion in the directory does not imply endorsement.

46 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

ALUMNI PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE THE CLASSIC CAPTAIN’S CHAIR A true classic, the USNA Captain’s Chair is crafted of kiln-dried solid maple hardwoods. They make great gifts and are available with up to 2 lines of personalization.

Visit www.usna.com/shop for these and other wonderful items for yourself or a friend.

ARE YOU READY TO START YOUR TRAVEL ADVENTURE IN 2023!

Cruising the Canary Islands and Morocco 12-20 April 2023

Greece—Athens and Gytheio 14-23 October 2023

Patagonia and Easter Island 25 November - 11 December 2023

Don’t delay making reservations for one of these upcoming tours.

The 2023 Travel Catalog is included with this issue of Shipmate.

Visit www.usna.com/travel to see all of our options JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 47

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! This will appear in the July-August Shipmate; however, as I sit wring the column, it is Mother’s Day and I would especially like to pay tribute to Jody Collins, widow of the late Thirty- Nine Classmate, Samuel L. Collins.

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

was well represented by Marie and her husband, Lou Martinette; and again, in 2019, by Marie at the 80th Anniversary Celebration of the 1 June, 1939 Class graduation.

Marie shared the following stories about her dad: “My father, Sam Collins, was a humble man who spoke very little about WWII and his years of service in the Pacific. I do recall, however, hearing him speak of being on the USS BIRMINGHAM in 1945 and how he barely survived the May 4th kamikaze attack. If I recall correctly, he had been off duty and in his stateroom that morning when he left for a cup of coffee. According to recorded history, it was during those few minutes that a Japanese kamikaze “Oscar” flew directly into BIRMINGHAM’s starboard side- the area my father had just left- and was now ablaze with flaming gasoline that left 45 men dead and over 80 .

My dad of course jumped into aid wherever needed, but when I think of those brave shipmates of USS BIRMINGHAM both lost and surviving- I thank a simple cup of coffee for saving my father that day… …Years later, I recall I once told my father to ‘Relax and enjoy life’ and that he had earned his “retirement”. Without hesitation, his immediate and direct response to me was… ”I did not earn my retirement; my lost shipmates earned my retirement. All I had to do was stay alive Marie said…”My dad served his country with a passion and had many associations during his lifetime, but I can say without a doubt that, besides family, nothing meant more to him than the USNA Class of 1939.”

Jody and Sam Collins from the 50th Reunion Book

I met Jody at the 70th Reunion, held in Annapolis in 2009. At the Dinner Banquet, my husband, Jim, and I were fortunate enough to be seated at a table with Jody Collins, her daughter, Marie Martinette, and Jody’s grandson, Sam Martinette ’11. We had a terrific time and laughed a lot. Although Jody was not able to attend the 75th Reunion, she Donor participation numbers as of 30 April 2022.

48 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Samuel L. Collins from the ’39 Lucky Bag

Marie has kept me updated on her mom, Jody as well as the rest of the family over the year.

Recently she wrote: M “After the wonderful ’39 Reunions in Annapolis, you had asked for an update on our family for a future ’39 Shipmate Column. I have provided brief updates at the end of this letter, but after hearing other accounts of the Class of ’39 exploits- including VADM Tom Weschler’s ‘What About ’39?’ speech at the 70th Reunion in 2009- anything I might recall here pales in comparison to our collective heritage. As Navy Juniors (does being over 65 still count as a ‘Junior’?!), we may have had varied experiences growing up all over the world, but the great USNA Class of 1939 has always been a unifying foundation.”

“My mom, Jody, is now 98 and doing reasonably well in her apartment at BayLake Retirement Community in Virginia Beach. She has come full circle back to the Tidewater area, where my dad reported as the CO of Little Creek Amphibious School in 1967. Like most of our mothers, she was first and foremost a Navy wife. Jody celebrated her 98th birthday on Valentines Day, February 14, 2022 with family that flew in to help her celebrateincluding LCDR Sam Martinette, ’11!”

“My husband, Lou and I moved to Norfolk almost three years ago, with Lou retiring from teaching and now working at our local golf course in exchange for free golf! I keep busy working part time at a local youth shelter. Our little condo is on the marina directly across from Little Creek, and we truly love hearing the National Anthem played every morning and Retreat every evening.”

“My brother Benton has been a commercial photographer in NYC for over 35 years with his two sons, Griffin (19) and Reeve (16).”

“Our daughter, Alison, lives with her husband, Mike, in Huntsville, Alabama, where Alison works as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist.”

“Our son, Sam (LCDR Samuel Martinette USNA Class of 2011) is heading to HELSEACOMBATRON FOURTEEN (HSC-14) in San Diego for a Department Head tour. He lives with his three beautiful children, Bradlee (9), Walker (7) and Scarlett (4).”

Marie closed her letter with…

“Our hearts will always be with the amazing men, wives and families of the best Class ever to come out of the United States Naval Academy…the Class of 1939.”

39/45 CLASS NEWS

’40

’44

Corr Sec’y: Dr. Virginia Trimble Widow of Dr. Joseph Weber p: 949-824-6948; fax: 949 824 2174; e: vtrimble@uci.edu

Shipmate Corr Sec’y: William “Bill” Wakeland 9019 Antietam Dr., San Antonio, TX, 78239 p: 210-646-5870; e: wrwake@satx.rr.com

Life Membership: 0% Donor Participation: 0%

Jody Collins ‘saluting’ the Class of ‘39

A week after receiving this letter, I received another from Marie: M “Sadly, we will need to add an addendum to our family’s update in the column. My mother, Jody, passed peacefully in her sleep on April 1,2022. My brother had just come down from New York for a visit, so she had both of her children with her the previous afternoon. We had a Memorial Service for her on April 5th and she was buried next to her beloved Sam at Eastern Shore Chapel in Virginia Beach.”

And so, as we bid farewell to another grand Navy wife, we are reminded of these words from “Life is Eternal”….”I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean… …She is an object of beauty and strength and I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come down to mingle with each other… …Then someone at my side says, ‘There she’s gone.’ Gone where? Gone from my sight- that is all … ...She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side, and just as able to bear her load of living freight to the place of destination. Her diminished size is in me, not in her; and just at the moment when someone at my side says, ‘There! She’s gone,’ there are other eyes watching her coming and other voices ready to take up the glad shout, ‘There she comes!’ ...”

We can well imagine Jody’s beloved Sam, watching her coming- standing on that distant shore in the company of ‘39ers- their glad shout, ‘There she comes!’ ... ” ‘What About ’39?’ …What about Jody and Sam Collin!

Respectfully submitted, Barbara Fidel Adams ‘39 Class Secretary

’41

Only ’40 is 4.0!

Life Membership: 25% 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 SUMMER TO EVERYONE!!!!

CELEBRATION!!!

DALE C. REED CELEBRATED HIS 103rd BIRTHDAY ON 14 MAY 2022!!!! Many Happy Birthday wishes to Dale. I talked to him on his special and Dale is doing great – chipper as always and full of life. Dale told me he received so many books that he will have to live many many more years to read them all.

Wishing Dale all the best as he will celebrate his 103rd birthday year all year long.

Celebrate the 4th of July with family and friends. May everyone have a safe and healthy summer.

May God bless the Class of ’42 and their families.

All the best, Joan Curtis Vice President/Secretary ’42 GO NAVY!!!!! BEAT ARMY!!!!!

Life Membership: 32% Donor Participation: 0%

’45

Life Membership: 63% Donor Participation: 40.00% Acting Pres: CAPT Edward L. “Ted” Cochrane Jr., USN (Ret.) 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

‘45 Classmate, Bob Williams, was featured by the San Francisco Chronicle newspaper in its Sunday, 17 April edition. The front-page story in the WEEKEND Sporting Green section showed a full-length picture of Bob hitting a golf ball with the comment, ‘THAT’S WHO I WANT TO BE’. The caption at the bottom of the cover page reads, “Bob Williams at the Menlo Country Club’s driving range. The article describes how Bob still stays active, has plenty to do on his plate and finds time to golf regularly. The article also detailed Bob’s zest for life, his 100 years of being admired by so many others, and his playing nine holes of golf almost every Sunday morning. To read the text of the full article, visit sfchronicle.com and search “100 Years Old and Still Golfing: A Bay Area ‘Late Bloomer’ has life of purpose.”

In addition, the newspaper article so impressed his Congressman, Anna G. Eshoo, that she sent Bob a congratulatory letter and awarded him the Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition by The U.S. House of Representatives for his outstanding and invaluable service to the community.

’43

Life Membership: 20% Donor Participation: 0% Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com

Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition awarded Bob

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 49

45/47 CLASS NEWS

’46

Life Membership: 40% Donor Participation: 7.69% 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 RESPUBLICAM ADOLESCENS, NON DESERAM SENEX

’47

Life Membership: 80% Donor Participation: 16.67% 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

Hello Forty-Seven!! Hope you are all doing well. Moving into Football Season which is always a great time of year. Still feeling the high of 2021 Army win. #GO NAVY Kicking off this edition of ’47 with a great photo of Joe Dimaggio and Pee Wee Reese at the Army-Navy baseball game in 1944!

Classic shot! ’45: Bob Williams at Menlo Country Club’s driving Range. Williams, 100, stays active, has plenty to do on his plate and finds time to golf regularly.

Mike Taylor visits Bill Geiger in late March

Finally, I must sadly report that ’45 Classmate, Martin H Snead, passed away on 2 April 2022.

Martin would have turned 100 in November.

As always…

Look Alive with ‘45!

Congratulatory Letter from Bob’s Congressman, Anna G. Eshoo

’45 Classmate, Bill Geiger, is seen on the left in the photo below enjoying the company of his good friend and fellow pilot, Mike Taylor.

On that occasion in Bill’s home, they were talking about March Madness and swapping memories of their days in the cockpit!

50 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

I got a nice profile update from Bill Kelleher ‘47:

47/47 CLASS NEWS (Photos of Bill as a young boy, at the Academy, Midshipmen photo, marrying his beloved Mary and with Mary later in life).

Great pics Bill!

What made you want to go to the Naval Academy?

Two uncles, both Grandfather Dr. Flynn’s sons went there so it intrigued me. I wanted to go there too. Cornelius Flynn was Class of 1915.

He served in the Navy from 1915 to 1945 and retired from the honorary rank of Rear Admiral. Cornelius’ younger brother graduated from the Class of 1922. He served in WWII as a Commander.

I served in the Navy after graduating from the Naval Academy. I was aboard the heavy cruiser MACON and ALBANY (1946-1949) and later on a light cruiser, Portsmouth (19521953). I was also an instructor at the Officer’s Candidate School in Newport, RI. Who nominated you (Congressman or Senator) to go to the Naval Academy?

Congressman Burchell of Bronx., NY. I grew up in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY. Did you go directly to USNA or did you work first or go to another College or Prep School?

I did a year at the Dwight School in Manhattan to prepare for USNA. Later I went to Rutgers Law School.

What Company were you in? Third Company!

Who was your closest friend at the Naval Academy?

Harry O’Brien, a friend from St. Louis, MO Who, When and where did you get married?

I married Mary T. Allgair on September 16, 1950 at St. Bernard’s Church in Raritan, NJ. We were married for 72 years. A relative in Somerville, NJ introduced us while I was at the Naval Academy. Mary passed away in March of this year (2022). We travelled the world together. We loved to entertain. We enjoyed the theater and taking daily walks together.

What have you been doing the past few years?

I was practicing Law since 1954! I retired in 2003! For a period of that time I was a Municipal Court Judge in Somerville, NJ. I also served on the Board of Directors at Somerset Medical Center and two banks. My grandfather, Dr. Flynn practiced medicine in Somerville for 50 years and was a founding member of the hospital.

Where do you live now?

Laurel Circle Assisted Living in Bridgewater, NJ Do you have any kids, grandkids, great grandkids?

I am fortunate that my family lives nearby.

I have two sons (both married). I have two granddaughters (married) and two great grandsons.

Here is Bill’s Lucky Bag write up from 1946:

“A quiet sense of humor, an easy smile, common sense, and a will to succeed marked Bill’s career at the Academy. His pleasing personality won him many friends, his ability to perform his duties well gained him the respect of all. A man who played hard and worked even harder, smiling when he succeeded, and laughing when he lost, he was a source of inspiration to all of us. This West-Chester lad liked a good time and many a European female will attest to his capability on the dance floor. His enthusiasm in all undertakings no matter how difficult was his inherent characteristic!”

Got a lovely update from Donna Joy, Fran Yuenling’s daughter:

Mom resides at an assisted living facility in Richmond and will be 98 in October. She remains very engaged in daily activities and fending for herself. She lives a five-minute drive from me, her eldest child, who visits daily. My four siblings visit often and will typically stay with her for several days, at which time she enjoys outings with them.

Got a lovely update from Gush Rusher son of Betty Rusher: We received your postcard. My father, Albert H. Rusher, died in 2017. My 96-year-old mother, Betty Rusher is alive and lives in Liberty Park Senior Care at Jonesboro, Arkansas. She is thankful for each and every day. She often reminisces about past years of my dad’s service in the Navyand the Naval Reserve. Thank you for your contact and your efforts with the Class of ‘47.

Final Hours: It is my sad duty to notify you of the passing of your Classmates and their spouses: Dick Beaubien, Harietta (Meis) Meisel, Mary Kelleher, Gloria (Leo) Hofman in JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 51

47/49 CLASS NEWS 2015, Lou (Bill) Murphy in 2020, Elizabeth (Donald) Wallace, Rose (Joseph) McPartland in 2012 May they all Rest in Peace.

That’s all for now Team ‘47! Look to the next Shipmate for more updates. I love receiving your notes in my mailbox, so please don’t stop sending them! Yours loyally for ’47.

“FoBotS” (Fan of Best on the Severn) OX, Eileen

’48

Life Membership: 41% Donor Participation: 5.26% Sec’y/Webmaster: John Tsiknas 16061 Avenida Venusto, Apt. E218; San Diego, CA 92128-4414 p: 858-451-0967; e: johntsiknas@att.net Website: http://1948.usnaclasses.com

After having been asked several times in the past how many classmates (graduates) are still alive I finally decided to find the answer and report it. My main resource for finding the answer was the Alumni database records. In addition, I used those names from the Class of 1948 In-Memoriam list which the Alumni Association does not have. The In-Memoriam list which is on our Class of 1948 website was updated by our late great secretary, Don Carruth, his predecessors and now by me.

The number of living Classmates as of 5/24/2022 using the above-mentioned resources is 98. It was obtained by subtracting the number of classmates on the In-Memoriam list (814) from the number of graduates (912).

I am certain that we are missing a few because family members, friends and others did not report the death to the Alumni Association nor to the class secretary. I will continue to maintain the In-Memoriam list which is on the Class of 1948 website whose address is http://1948.usnaclasses.com. After reaching the site press “In Memoriam-Classmates” on the left side of the screen.

Since the last issue of Shipmate, we have learned of the loss of the following: Classmates: H.S. Crosby, 24th Co.; 4/16/2022 T.E. Alexander, 4th Co.; 5/10/2022 Wife: JoAnne Hanlon; 4/16/2022

52 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’49

Life Membership: 65% Donor Participation: 5.88% Pres: CAPT Richard A. (Rick) Claytor, USN (Ret.) 701 King Farm Blvd.,#203, Rockville, MD 20950 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 2140 e. navygolfergirl@gmail.com Webmaster: CAPT Richard A. “Rick” Claytor, USN (Ret.) Website: www.usna-class49.org

From the President In previous issues of Shipmate, we published the names and athletic accomplishments of four classmates who have been honored in the newly created Ron Terwilliger Center for Student Athletes in Ricketts Hall. These were Lee Chambers in Lacrosse and Reaves Baysinger, Scott Emerson and Pete Williams in Football.

An additional four athletes from our class have been honored. Following is the detailed support we provided for these classmates.

Basketball – John C. Barrow John Barrow, one of the top athletes in our class, excelled as a mainstay on both Navy’s basketball and track teams. John was a premier pole vaulter but became best known for his prowess on the basketball court where he became the team captain in 1948, his first class year.

John was a key John C. Barrow player on the varsity basketball team all four years (1945-48) when the team complied a record of 50 wins vs 22 losses. In 1947, Navy reached the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament. During the 1948 season when John was team captain, playing in every game, he averaged .667 in free throw attempts and .300 in field goal attempts.

John won the prestigious athletic award, the Thompson Trophy Cup, and was inducted into the USNA Sports Hall of Fame.

John was a demonstrated leader while a midshipman having served as Brigade Commander twice and vice president of the Class of 1949.

Soccer – Albert A. Schaufelberger, Jr. Al Schaufelberger, known as “Shoes” for his size 13 canal boats, starred during his plebe year in two sports new to him – soccer and lacrosse. Demonstrating that he was a very

talented athlete, he went on during his remaining three years to earn three N’s in each of these sports, included All-American honors in soccer. Al also became an NCAA champion handball.

Albert A. Schaufelberger, Jr. In soccer, he was awarded All-American honors for three consecutive years as goalie. Al was named captain of the soccer team in 1948, his first class year. That year, under Shoes’ leadership, the Navy soccer team achieved a 9-1-1 record that included an eight game winning streak and wins over strong teams from Penn State, North Carolina, and Army.

His leadership skills developed at the Naval Academy went on to serve him well in the fleet. As the commanding officer of a carrier attack squadron, under his leadership in well over 2600 combat sorties flown under his command not one pilot was lost, and only one aircraft was lost to enemy action.

150-Pound Football – H. A. Stromberg, Jr. The sport with the most successful record during the Class of 1949’s four years at the Academy was the 150-pound football team. The team won all 17 of their games during that period resulting in three Eastern Intercollegiate titles and the mythical National Championship.

The leader of this H. A. Stromberg outstanding team throughout these years was Ham (as he was known) Stromberg who was elected its captain for first class year.

He was a phenomenal right guard, playing both offense and defense. Ham was an inspirational leader and role model for his teammates. It was said that Ham spent more time in the opponents’ backfield than their halfbacks.

Prior to entering the Naval Academy, Ham earned a Navy commission in V-12 at Harvard, lettering in football and resigning his commission to come to Navy.

Squash – Thomas M. Gill Tom Gill deserves special recognition among exceptional athletes in Naval Academy history serving as the captain of the 1948-49 squash team for the first time that squash was

49/51 CLASS NEWS elevated from an intramural sport to a varsity sport engaged in intercollegiate competition. This proved to be an important milestone in Navy athletic history. Two years after this beginning, under the leadership Thomas M. Gill of coach Art Potter for the next 27 years, the Navy squash team compiled a record of 267 wins and only 62 losses, winning national team titles in 1957, 1959, and 1967. Until Trinity won its first title in 1998, Navy was the only non-Ivy League school to win a national nine-player team championship. In 1990, Potter was in the inaugural class of the Men’s College Squash Association Hall of Fame, and is the namesake for the Potter Cup, which is awarded to the winner of the A Division at the men’s National Team Championships.

In addition, in 1958 a tradition began when the USS BARB Squash Racquets Perpetual Trophy was established by Captain Eugene B. Fluckey in honor of the submarine he commanded. In that year, Fluckey, class of 1935, returned to his alma mater as chairman of the electrical engineering department. Captain (later Read Admiral) Fluckey, winner of the Congressional Medal of Honor and four Navy Crosses, is credited with sinking the most tonnage of enemy vessels by any U.S. commander. At the beginning of each season, the Barb tournament is played to set the Naval Academy’s roster; sixteen players compete in a round robin competition which sets up a single elimination tournament.

Tom Gill was not only considered one of the best squash players the academy had ever seen, but also was an exceptional athlete in other sports where he competed including varsity tennis, plebe football, and the brigade boxing tournament. He may be best remembered, however, as the founder of Navy varsity squash.

In Memoriam Robert Taylor Hardeman, died December 30, 2021 in Greenwood, MS. George Quigley Langstaff Jr., (non-grad) died January 3, 2022 in Murfreeboro, TN. Marilyn Douglass (Jim), wife of Robert McIntyre Douglass, died October 10, 2021 in Groton Long Point, CT. Frances Elaine (Concah) Reiher, wife of Eugene J. Reiher, died March 27, 2022 in Fairfax, VA

CAPT Robert W. Titus USNR (Ret.) died May 4, 2022 in Reno, Nevada.

ENS Robert L. Faricy, S.J. died March 4, 2022 in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

’50

Life Membership: 67% Donor Participation: 7.06% Pres: CAPT Thomas H. Ross, USN (Ret.) p: 410-757-3745; e: thasross@hotmail.com Vice Pres and Exec. Sec’y: CAPT John J. McNally, USN (Ret.) p: 703-765-8808; e: jmcnallyj@gmail.com Treas: Col William K. Rockey, USMC (Ret.) p: 703-842-3153; e:wkrockey@cox.net Email System Mgr: TBD Webmaster: CAPT J. Patrick Kittler, USNR (Ret.) p: 612-481-7948; e: pkittler@me.com Website: http://usna50.mysite.com Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com

’51

Life Membership: 62% Donor Participation: 11.11% Pres: CAPT Thomas A. Boyce, USN (Ret.) 9014 Belvoir Woods Pkwy., Ft Belvoir, VA 22060 p: 703-780-7525; e: moomapa51@gmail.com Vice Pres: CAPT Bob Small, USN (Ret.) 874 Coachway, Annapolis, MD 21401 p: 410-849-2149; e: rhsusna51@verizon.net Sec’y: Lt Col Wallace G. Christner, USAF (Ret.) 8804 Gibbs Pl., Alexandria, VA 22309 p: 703-780-8632, e: wallace.christner@aol.com Class Fundraiser: Mr. David Ghysels Communications: VADM Robert F. Dunn, USN (Ret) 819 Marshall Ln., Alexandria, VA p: 703-370-9589; e: robtdunn@aol.com Website: www.usna51.com

First, sad news: Roy Malone, our Class Board Member from Tidewater passed away on 24 May in Virginia Beach. Roy was a mainstay in the class organization and he is sorely missed.

His obituary is posted later in an edition of Shipmate.

Turning to History, or Perhaps, Nostalgia.

In the last issue we reminisced a bit about our 70th Anniversary celebration, climbing the Herndon Monument just before we watched 48B graduate and packing up for our Youngster Cruise to the Med and the Caribbean.

Academics earned us degrees and commissions, but it was the summers that brought us memories. Our Second Class summer, for example, put us on an Air Cruise; the only class ever to have had such an experience (except for some of ’52 whose scheduled air cruises were cut short by the outbreak of the Korean War).

Most of us will agree that we were indeed fortunate to have had the opportunities of the air cruise we did have. We were even more fortunate in the Al Raithel wrote it up for us in his, “The Magnificent Summer of ’49” or “Let’s Go on an Air Cruise.” (Should it be that any of you don’t have a copy of Al’s effort, shoot your correspondent a line and he will send you a somewhat abbreviated reproduction). In any case, here’s a summary There were four separate Air Cruises for the Class of 1951: 6-23 June; 11-30 July; 24 August to 7 September and 8 to 21 September.

Each Air Cruise was further divided into two wings. One wing flew in the R5D-3 Sky Master or R60-1 Constitution, and the other wing flew in the JRM-2, Caroline Mars. Half way through the Air Cruise, each wing would fly to NAS Pensacola for three days introduction to Naval Aviation. The wings would then shift aircraft for the remainder of the Air Cruise. Each wing would therefore have its own unique itinerary.

At each stop along the way there would be a tour of some local Naval Aviation facility, often an Overhaul and Repair Depot, and in the evening a social activity. By and large those socials were terrific. The local citizenry would turn out their young ladies to meet these touring midshipmen, yielding numerous long-term romantic relationships and even several after-graduation marriages.

At Pensacola we repeated the Dilbert Dunker experiences many of us had in the family pool at Annapolis and almost everyone got a ride in the SNJ. The Dilbert Dunker was made notable when one classmate was started down the slide without his safety harness fastened.

When the apparatus hit the water he was catapulted out of his seat and down the pool.

He later went into submarines.

Flights in the SNJ were generally great but every once-in-awhile some instructor pilot would take it unto himself to show the midshipman some “Special” aerobatics.

The occasional in-cockpit mishap resulting therefrom had to be cleaned up by the midshipman himself.

Toward the end of the summer most of the class embarked in the aircraft carrier USS Leyte for a short cruise out of Norfolk.

Still later a portion of the class joined contemporaries from West Point for “CAMID,” an amphibious exercise off Virginia Beach.

Should anyone have a story or two from these events he wishes to share with classmates, please send them to your correspondent.

All in all, as Al Raithel put it, it was indeed a “Summer to Remember.”

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 53

51/52 CLASS NEWS

Caroline Mars

Flirt

Lockheed R60-1 CONSTITUTION

Perhaps of interest, the initial twelve wooden-hulled Luders were replaced by twelve identical fiberglass-hulled Luders assigned the same names and sail numbers while the earlier wooden hulled boats were farmed out to various Navy sailing activities supported by local MWR’s. Among them, four were received in the late 1960’s by the Navy Sailing Club in Coronado. Having sailed hard and aged as maintenance became ever more difficult, some were disposed of, but two in better condition were purchased by individuals and continue to sail.

Sounds a bit like the Class of 1951, doesn’t it…some in better condition and ready to sail?

Thanks, Herb.

’52 Douglas R5D-3 Skymaster

Life Membership: 71% Donor Participation: 9.49%

From Sky to Sea, but Still With a Touch of Nostalgia Herb Zoehrer has checked in with a story about one of our sailboats. Lest you think it’s a jump to go from airplanes and an air cruise to sailboats, recall that both follow similar laws with lift under the wings of an airplane and “Lift” in a slightly different direction in the case of a sail.

Herb observes that many of us may have sailed on Flirt, the yawl pictured below with NA9 on her mainsail and genoa jib. It was one of twelve 44ft Luder yawls that came to USNA in 1939, and sailed until the late 1960’s. She is now San Diego Bay where she sails often, including racing to Ensenada. Throughout the many years since leaving USNA she has flown Blue and Gold USNA color-patterned spinnaker and mizzen staysail.

Pres (Zoom Master): CDR Robert H. Schulze, USN (Ret.) 1017 Towlston Rd., McLean, VA 22102-1116 p: 703-757-0332; e: rhschulze1@verizon.net

54 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

with a table filling seven good looking Bixby’s.

Chet McRorie and his son Bart had the longest trip, coming from Alaska. They boarded an HONOR FLIGHT in Seattle that was taking Veterans to Washington, D.C. to tour the Capitol. When the flight crew heard of Chet’s mission to make the 70th reunion of our Naval Academy Class, the plane erupted in applause!

Attendees were: Janice Allen & George Allen (son), Gene Avallone, Rita Bailey, Les Banghart & Karen Wright, Harry Bixby & Adele Caruthers with Kevin Bixby (son), David Bixby (son), Susan Edwards, Alicia Bixby (daughter), Keith Hampton, Chuck Block, Phil & Louise Case, Larry & Sarah Chambers, Earl Chinn & Scott Chinn (son), Dick & Joyce Dietz, Carl Hilland with Heidi Hilland (daughter), Dan Hilland (son), Dan Kershaw & Beth Miozzi, John Langford & Calvin Langford (son), Dolly Leonard & Kathy Leonard Lillard (daughter), George Lester & Jim Lester, Victor Macomber & Michael Macomber (son), Chet McRorie & Bart McRorie, Paula Monopoli (Dick Monopoli), Charles & Annie Pollack with Zandra Mills, Jerry & Janet Rapkin, Jim Sagerholm with Rick Hunter, Lisa Sagerholm-Hunter, Robert & Mimi Schulze, Ronnie Senac, Judith Sherar & Rhonda Vinet, Sue Thomas Smith & Ron Koehler, Tom Stafford, Suzie Sterrett (daughter of Garnett Bailey) & Jeff Sterrett, Jim Wilson with Nancy Wilson-Garratt, Judy Wilson-Benson, Patty Wilson, Jane WilsonO’Donnell, and Jack & Jane Young with Kip Young (daughter) and Dave Baggett.

The Sunday mixer was a neat renewal of friends and a good look at our family and supporters throughout the years.

Vice Pres: Jack Young 9440 Newbridge Dr., Montgomery Village, MD, 20886-4021; p: 301-299-3550; e: jcy52@verizon.net Sec’y: Kip Young, daughter of Jack Young 8616 White Post Ct., Potomac, MD 20854 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 70th Reunion Cord: 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 Website: www.toughshoes52.org

Under the leadership of Reunion Chair Phil Case and Coordinator Valarie Gerheiser, our 70th Reunion was well planned and executed down to the Nth Degree. Key indicators are: 19 Classmates attended, joined by 49 family members, for a total of 67. Harry and Adele Bixby had the largest family contingent

Kick-off Luncheon, Naval Academy Club President Bob Schlulze welcomed the Reunion party to the Naval Academy Club for the kickoff luncheon on Monday, April 25, 2022 and introduced the Commandant, Marine Colonel James “J.P.” McDonough, Class of 1994, as our luncheon speaker. The Dant is the third Marine Officer to be Commandant, and he is very sharp and very much a Marine and a Gentleman. The Commandant’s leadership

52/52 CLASS NEWS style is heavily influenced by being a father of Marines and Marines to be. His leadership focus is on teaching Midshipmen professionalism and building good character, drawing on his Marine Corps training and the attention to discipline. He and the Supe are pleased with opening up the Academy after being locked down by COVID. Tom Stafford Presentation to Midshipmen – How the U.S. beat the Soviet Union in landing on the Moon We met with the Supe to request a presentation to Midshipmen by Lt. Gen Tom Stafford, USAF (Ret.), similar to Jerry Zacharias’ presentation during our 65th Reunion. The Supe indicated that is difficult to do, taking MIDN free time. After some 3-star conversations between the Supe and Tom, VADM Buck backed the concept completely, working with the Dant to select MIDN from each Company and from all classes. The payoff was a packed Mahan Hall.

Tom was introduced bythen MIDN Grant Vigneault ’22, 2nd Regimental XO, who did an outstanding job summarizing Tom’s background. Highlights included: • Commander of APOLLO X, the first flight of the lunar module to the Moon, performing the entire lunar-landing mission except the actual landing, because the Lunar Module was too heavy to land. The Lunar Module mapped the moon surface, and the site for APOLLO XI was determined for the landing two months later.

• In his flying career, Tom logged 6,800 flight hours, in 120 types of aircraft, including 507 hours and 43 minutes in space flight. He has flown four historic space missions and is one of only 24 people to fly to the Moon.

• He later served as the commander of the Apollo Soyuz Test project with Russia.

• Weatherford, OK, Tom’s hometown, built a small museum to contain space artifacts honoring his space achievements. The museum has grown to five rooms, integrating into a 63,000 sq. feet Air and Space Museum, owned by the city.

• As LTG and Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for R&D and Acquisition, he initiated the F-117A “Nighthawk” program, producing the first Stealth Attack Fighter in the world, and the only one for 25 years. He also developed the specifications for the first Stealth Advanced Technology Bomber, the B-2 “Spirit.”

• In 1990 President George H. W. Bush asked him to chair a study to carry out President Bush’s Space Exploration Initiative – “To go back to the Moon. This time to stay.”

• He holds the all-time world, speed record at 24,791 MPH – that’s Mach 36. Today, he is still the fastest man alive!

Tom presented the complete work up to landing on the moon. The best way to represent this comes from the concluding remarks ofthen MIDN Grant Vigneault ’22, “Lt. Gen Stafford, on behalf of the Brigade of Midshipmen and the Naval Academy Faculty and Staff, I would like to thank you for sharing your incredible life experiences with us. It is truly an honor to have such an amazing pioneer and legend in the space program with us here this evening. Your experiences are inspiring, and you have challenged our generation to carry on the torch of leadership in space exploration, international cooperation, and scientific achievement.”

MIDN lined up at microphones with excellent questions in the Q&A following Tom’s remarks. CAPT Donald E. Kennedy, USN Director, Special Events, followed up with us to share that he continues to hear “incredibly positive feedback from Midshipmen, alumni, and other guests - they all recognized that it was a special moment.”

Memorial Service at USNA Main Chapel Class President Bob Schulze and Rev. Charles D. Pollack recognized the 50 Classmates that have lost their lives in combat or in naval or Marine operations. Honorary classmate Chaplain Kimberly Moses delivered a homily at the memorial service on Tuesday.

She noted, “We all acknowledge that the Great Class of 1952 has some well-known members. But it also has members who have mostly gone unnoticed, unmentioned, uncelebrated. But in their hands, ships have been built, airplanes have been tested, supplies have made it around the world in times of war and peace, inspections have been passed, sailors have been fed, marines have been led, bases have been run with integrity, projects have been managed, businesses have been built, families have been blessed, books have been written – because they were in the right hands.”

Tour of the USNA Museum and Hopper Hall The tour was conducted by Museum Director Claude Berube, Honorary Classmate. There

was also a tour of Hopper Hall, the new Naval Academy Center for Cyber Security Studies.

Banquet at the Doubletree Hotel in Annapolis After a delicious meal, Class President CDR Robert H. Schulze, USN (Ret.) was surprised with a special “Zoom Master” plaque in recognition of his quick formation of the Class Zoom meetings when COVID shut down the Ft. Meyer Club and most other Clubs and Restaurants. Bob had ‘52 meeting by Zoom up and running quickly, and we have had 20 monthly Zoom Meetings, with excellent subjects, presenters, and audience. These video chats have evolved into a fun monthly class tradition.

Earl Chinn and Joyce Dietz then serenaded us with “Old Man River”, which he updated on the spot, with Joyce’s help, to “Mature Man River.”

Tom Stafford then spoke about the “first class reunion in space.” First, Tom noted what a blessing it is to live in the Class of ’52 timeframe. “Most of us were seniors in high school when Chuck Yeager broke the speed of sound ... our class saw the big transitions, from diesel to nuclear subs, and propeller planes to jets.”

Soon space travel seemed possible. In 1961 President Kennedy told congress, “I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the Earth.” Tom noted that his favorite part of this statement was the phrase, “and safely returning him.”

Many of the first astronauts came from Annapolis. Tom noted that over 42% of all the Apollo flights were manned by the Class of ‘52 classmates (Tom, Jim Lovell and Donn Eisele), and it would have been 50% had classmate Ed Givens not died in a car accident in 1967. Tom concluded by sharing how Annapolis prepared them. “We have the great education of the Naval Academy. We can stand up to anybody.”

Gemini VI and Classmate Jim Lovell’s Gemini VII were scheduled to meet up for the first rendezvous in space on December 15, 1965. Tom shared that they wanted to do something to motivate the brigade while in orbit. They realized they had an opportunity to hold a sign in the window of Gemini VI. They considered making a “Go Navy” sign, then determined that the sign should say “Beat Army.” They were off to the variety store to buy posterboard for the now-famous sign that they secretly brought on board. During their space rendezvous, Tom and Wally Schirra, Class of ’45, surprised Jim by asking him to take a picture of his craft, and he held the “Beat Army” sign in the capsule window.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 55

52/53 CLASS NEWS

With Tom at both of his presentations was the commemorative plaque created by ‘52 that honors the rendezvous by Tom and Jim Lovell, and an autographed copy of the photo. The Supe has directed that the autographed photo and plaque be displayed in the Visitor Center.

• Past Class President RADM Bill Ryan, May 13, 2022 • Lawrence W. Iannotti, March 24, 2022 • Eloise T. Payne, wife of Douglas Payne, April 28, 2022 • St. Clair Smith, April 27, 2022 • Evelyn Colleen Smith, wife of St. Clair Smith, February 1, 2020 Obituaries are distributed by e-mail, can be found in the Class website www.toughshoes52.com and are published in the Last Call section of Shipmate. I encourage you to refer often to the Class website, as obituaries and other news items are available immediately as they are posted. This column is generally not published until two or three months after submission, and is therefore not a source of timely news regarding deaths, final services, etc.

’53

Life Membership: 65% Donor Participation: 9.23% 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 Admin Vice Pres and Corr Sec’y: CAPT Arthur C. Bivens, USN (Ret.) 7448 Spring Village Dr., Apt.323, Springfield, VA 22150 p: 703-270-5940; e: acbivens@aol.com Webmaster: CAPT Paul Dudley, USN (Ret.) e: pdudley@1953.usna.com Website: www.usna53.com

Shipmate News Bill Laux is stepping down after 14 years of loyal service as the Class’s Shipmate editor.

His columns were insightful and kept ‘52 informed and on track, and we thank him for his fine work. Jack Young’s daughter Kip Young will step in, and she is looking for class news and photos. Send to: toughshoes52shipmate@gmail.com Note from Kip Young: Speaking of tough shoes to fill, Bill Laux is a hard act to follow. I am honored and will do my best. I look to all of you for news and pictures, please use this email address and let us know what is going on in your lives.

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

Received recently:

56 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Passings Frederic A. Mann CAPT, USAFR (10) died 3 September 2021 at Dallas, TX. His widow, Wanda is notifying SHIPMATE so his obituary info can go in the Last Call section. The picture shows Fred and Wanda of 68 years, plus our daughter Nancy (Mann) Kimbrell (USNA ’86) and son Patrick Kimbrell.

Fred Mann and his family

Milton H. Tolman (10) died 23 March 2022 at

Lake Hopatcong, NJ. After graduation Milt served in USS POCONO (AGC-16) prior to Submarine School. He left the Navy in 1958 after a tour in USS ANGLER (SSK-240). He then joined Worthington Corp, a maker of pumps, turbines and compressors. As Director of the Asia Pacific Region, he served on the Boards of Directors, etc. His first wife, Betty Jean, died in 1995. They had two children. He married IIona in 1997 and they had step-children and step-grand-children.* Karen Trueblood, widow of CAPT William E. Trueblood USN (1) died 4 April 2022 at Annapolis, MD. Karen and Bill have four successful children and eleven grandchildren.* Joyce Lee Jones, widow of Horace B. Jones Jr. (24), who died April 23, 2022 in Baltimore, MD. She was a stewardess for airlines in Hong Kong until she worked in public relations in the Bahamas where she met Horace. They married in 1965 and started a family of three daughters.

Joyce worked as a travel agent in Annapolis, MD. She shared 57 years of marriage until Horace’s death in 2021. Survivors include three children and six grandchildren. * *See 50th Year Legacy Book Mail Bag Alfred A. Smith (Pete) lost his 1953 Class Ring and he phoned me, Art Bivens, asking for help to send an All Email to our Classmates asking if anyone might have a class ring that would be available. Classmate Harry Robson (10), it so happens that he has an extra Class Ring and a couple of stories that go with it.

M “During June Week ’53 my folks and others rented a house in the Bay Ridge area. One evening a group of classmates and I, along with our drags, loaded a large rowboat and went across an inlet to a beach on a split for a beach on a beach party. I was in the bow of the boat grounded a few feet from shore so I jumped out to pull it in, so that all others could come ashore dry. The water was cold and without feeling it, my ring came off. It was a couple of hours later that I realized my ring had come off. The search began to no avail.

The next day we returned but still no ring. My Dad said that it had to be replaced so we ordered a replacement from Baily, Banks and Biddle which arrived before I reported to my ship. The next fall a girl from U. of Maryland was at a beach party at the very spot and found the ring in the sand. A few weeks later she had a date with Bill Spangler ’55 (same hometown and friend) and asked if he could find the owner since there was a name inside. I got the ring back a few weeks later and retired the replacement to its original box. Second tale: My first wife lost her miniature and had

53/55 CLASS NEWS to replace it about 1972. At that time BB&B still had the “dies”, it was no problem.”

Situation of “Pete” Smith: I called Pete and he is still looking for his lost Class Ring. It is a good story.

’55

Life Membership: 65% Donor Participation: 5.02% 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/

Jim Rodgers and new Ship

Jim Rodgers (18) sent a note and with his wife Sue they enjoyed the commissioning ceremonies of the USS PETERSON (DDG-121) 14 May 2022 in Charleston, SC. A picture of Jim is on the wharf near the ship.

All the best

’54

Life Membership: 56% Donor Participation: 9.00% Pres: CAPT George V. Zeberlein, USN (Ret.) p: 410-570-3233; e: gvzeberlein@gmail.com Exec Vice Pres: MGen 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

Class of 1955 65th (i.e.67th!) Reunion by Bob Fountain, Reunion Committee Chairman We successfully held our oft-postponed 65th (i.e. 67th!) Class Reunion in Annapolis on 2830 April 2022. A total of 75 people attended all or part of the Reunion. Of that number 22 people attended only the Memorial service and luncheon at the Naval Academy Club which followed, leaving 53 who attended the entire Reunion. A total of 27 Classmates attended plus nine widows of Classmates representing their husbands. There was a total of 39 other family members and guests in attendance.

After the arrival and registration of attendees on Thursday afternoon the group gathered for an informal reception and cocktail party at our headquarters hotel, the Hilton DoubleTree of Annapolis, featuring an available bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Friday morning began with a Class Meeting. Following the Class Meeting, the entourage embarked in buses for the Naval Academy Chapel. Jerry Holland read three selected Old Testament passages and Don Sturtz then read his Meditation “The Blessings of Age”. After the Memorial Service, the entire group then walked or rode over to the Naval Academy Club for lunch and refreshments. Following

lunch, the “Supe”, VADM Sean Buck ’83 USN (Ret.), spoke to our group eloquently and without notes for almost an hour. This event was followed by the Brigade Dress Parade on Worden Field.

The final day, Saturday, began with an excellent hour and a half virtual tour of the Academy highlighting some of the contributions of the Class as well as the numerous new academic and sports facilities by CAPT Jim Minderlein ‘65. He was followed by a most interesting dialog between RADM Jerry Holland, who years ago, as a Battalion Officer, had been assigned the task of planning for the introduction of women into the Brigade and Marine COL Maria Pallotta ‘91, USMCR, Director of the Center for Experiential Leadership Development at the Academy.

She brought with her three top 1/c women Midshipmen, all members of the Crew, and by good fortune was accompanied by two former graduates from the initial class of women Midshipmen. They engaged in a most interesting discussion of the progress of integrating women into the Brigade. The highlight of the evening was the excellent banquet which was greatly enjoyed by all. Various Classmates and widows of Classmates in attendance availed themselves of the opportunity to comment on the excellence of the Reunion and their enjoyment thereof. Finally, a number of diehards repaired to the Hospitality Room to finish the evening in song led by Fred Schoenberger with his “banjo-uke!”.

Following are photos from the Memorial Service.

Bob Fountain

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

Class Gathering: Phil Livingstone shares a nice picture of a June birthday dinner for Bill Land, Class of 1954.

Sad news: We recently learned that CAPT Frederick J. Kollmorgen passed away on May 24, 2022.

Look for a “Last Call” obituary in this or future issue of Shipmate.

’54: Pictured at the dinner are from L-R; Peggy Ertlmeier (widow of George), Bill Greenlaw, Phil Livingstone, Bill Land and Bob Sherer, Class of 1961 JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 57

55/55 CLASS NEWS

Jerry Holland

Don Sturtz

And additional photos from the luncheon at the Naval Academy Club…

’55: April luncheon attendees

L to R Jessie Parker, Laura McAleer, Elton Parker ’91, Susan Parker, Lucy Mustin, Marilyn Goodson, Spud Flowers

A special “Hats Off!” to Nancy Hinton (23), our roving photog, who captured all the action at our reunion. She’s pictured here with fellow 23rd Co. wife, Ann Saunders.

John Haynes (9) with his 1931 Model A Ford.

L to R Roy Paul, Amanda Allred, Lyle Humpton ’81, Tom Stallman, Marge Stallman, Don Sturtz, Genie Walter, Jeannie Hendrix L to R Ann, Nancy

Note: Tables not shown here will appear in future Shipmate issues.

L to R Fred Schoenberger, Nora Schoenberger, Christina Blair, Angelo Cicolani, Virginia Andress, Miller Andress, Bob Hinton

D.C. Area Lunch, April 13, 2022 at Portofino, Arlington A delightful event with superb cuisine and camaraderie; see photo above.

Attendees from lower left: Nancy and Bob Hinton, Marge and Tom Stallman, Bob and Betsey Fountain, Monroe Hatch, Suzy Parker, Angelo Cicolani.

’55: Classmates, Wives & Widows on Chapel steps after Service 58 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

A Sea Story by Johns Jaudon (17) It was the summer of 1958. My first ship after graduation, a destroyer, had been decommissioned. I had orders to WASP, a CVS. She was homeported in Boston, where the destroyer had been decommissioned. I literally walked across the pier to WASP. During the summer of 1958, we were in the Mediterranean for what was supposed to have been a short cruise.

WASP was the third carrier in the Med at that time. However, one of the CVs (ESSEX, I think) was directed to leave the Med and go through the Suez Canal to join the Seventh Fleet. That left SARATOGA and WASP as the only two carriers in the Med. However, WASP had very little offensive capability. We had our ASW package of aircraft (S2Fs and HSSs). Instead of the usual eight fighter planes for self-defense, we had eight marine helos (HRSs) embarked.

The marine helos were supposed to demonstrate vertical envelopment to some of our NATO allies. In any event, the summer of 1958 was when the US first put marines into Lebanon. SARATOGA and WASP were operating independently in the eastern Med. Our Task Group was at Condition III. Five of our seven escorting Dealey class DEs were operating independently, while two remained with us as a screen. We were keeping aircraft aloft

around the clock. The S2Fs on ASW searches and three HSSs supplementing our two DE screen.

I had the forenoon watch as OOD. We had just completed a launch and were about to recover aircraft. I noticed one odd-looking HSS among our six. It was painted in desert camouflage and appeared almost pink over the blue sea. This was of the desert camouflage over the bright blue sky and sea. The pink HSS was about 2000 yards ahead, crossing from starboard to port. I pointed out the stranger to the CO, who was on the bridge for the launch and recovery. I could see the star of David marking on its side. The pink HSS turned to its left and started closing rapidly down the porrt side. The CO informed the flag bridge via the intercom of the extra HSS. As the pink HSS approached to port, the flag bridge said, “What is he doing? Don’t let him land! Shoot him down!”

At this point, the pink HSS was about 200 yards abeam to port and turned toward us and started to land. We were at Condition III, but he was a little close to fire on with our 5”/38s.

The manned guns were Mounts 56 and 58 (port side aft and were manned by the marine detachment). The CO of the marine detachment and his exec were on duty as Fire Control officer and director operators. After the “pink” HSS landed, the marine detachment CO did get some armed marines to the flight deck and surrounded it. It turned out that the Israeli HSS was on a mercy mission, looking for one of their merchant ships in which there was a very ill seaman. Since the HSS did not have the range to fly the mission, the Israelis had rigged a fuel drum inside the helo with a wobble pump to refuel themselves, but the temporary fuel line from the 55 gallon drum had become clogged. We refueled the pink HSS and sent him off on his mission.

Later we got a message from Sixth Fleet which had been delayed for some reason, telling about the mercy mission of the Israeli helo and directing that we provide all possible assistance. Probably lucky we did not shoot him down. Then I looked into why our lookouts had apparently not seen or reported the pink HSS. It turned out that they had seen it, but when they reported their sighting of a “pink HSS,” the CIC surface watch officer told them to stop goofing off and if they reported something like that again, they would be on report.

The bridge talker, having heard this, decided he would not repeat anything about the “pink HSS” to the bridge, because he did not want to get in trouble. I never could find out why CIC had an unidentified aircraft close to the formation. The flag and the ship got a Bravo Zulu for helping the Israeli mercy mission.

’56

Life Membership: 74 % Donor Participation: 14.41% 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) e: jimvanm@aol.com; p: 410-224-3860 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”

65 + 1 Reunion This is for you who couldn’t make the trip to the reunion, for whatever reason. Actually, 56 classmates signed up for the reunion.

There were 42 classmates at the Friday evening banquet. Rounding out the total number of attendees; there were family members (including wives, children, grandchildren and widows), and the total of those sign-ups was 90. So, in all, 132 attendees.

Jim VanMetre (4) and Doug Hayman (11), with some help from some others, put together a fine schedule for the three days of our Class get-together for the 65th Reunion, held from 20 to 23 April. The schedule began on 20 April with a reception that evening. Basically, in three days we had: [1] briefings from the Supe, the Commandant, the Academic Dean, the Athletic Director and a Rep from Cyber Security Studies; [2] a memorial service for fallen classmates; and [3] a shot at viewing the “Legends” in the Terwilliger Center (built recently), and Preble Hall’s expanded museum.

Renewing old friendships with classmates

55/56 CLASS NEWS was a favorite item and we had three nights to do that.

During his talk during the final banquet, Jim presented to Doug and Judi Hayman a framed document together with a formal desk lamp (selected by Jim and the executive committee). The gift is meant to demonstrate extreme gratitude for all Doug’s work for the Class over the years. The framed commendation reads in part: “Special tribute to Doug and Judi Hayman given with enduring affection and heartfelt thanks for decades of leadership and support of our Classmates and our wives and widows”.

Doug Hayman (11) held a company rep meeting on the final day. All of us should expect at least one call from our company representative every year to check on our health and whereabouts.

Remember the discussions about the non-graduate Don Anderson and his gifts to the class (see Jul/Aug and Nov/Dec Shipmates)?

Well, he showed up and appeared to enjoy all the reunion activities. A little background: He had enlisted, taken a test that id-ed him as a candidate for Naval Academy, and shortly after he’d started Plebe Summer he learned that the Korean War was officially coming to an end. A phone call with his congressman confirmed that he could opt out of his contract with the Navy and still be eligible for an education. So, he departed USNA, caught a train back to his hometown in Texas and enrolled in Texas University, obtaining a BS in electrical engineering. He proved he was an information sponge when taking in information in scientific studies. He took a course in nuclear engineering one semester and taught the same course the next semester.

For info, Don Anderson has written that two books that he has authored and can be

’55: 65 + 1 Reunion attendees gather on the Chapel steps JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 59

56/56 CLASS NEWS obtained on Amazon.com: “The Maytag Detective” and “Kamchatka to Texas”, which is about what was happening on earth 25,000 years ago when people from the Far East are known to have crossed the (frozen) Bering Sea to our continent.

Remember Dave Minton’s (18) SSN trailing story (see Jul/Aug ’21 Shipmate)? Dave was commanding officer of a front-line SSN. SSN’s go on several-months deployments all over the world’s oceans to spy on other navies.

Among his first thoughts during the start of that deployment was that he’d missed out on an operation against many Soviet era surface ships that were congregating in the Sea of Japan in preparation for a show of force in the area, perhaps in the South China Sea (it was 1972 and the Vietnam War was in progress).

Dave perhaps wanted to mingle with them, maybe take some pictures through his periscope… Instead, he happened across the submerged Russian missile submarine that he then trailed undetected for many days. The U.S. had wanted to do that for a long time, so it was a great feather in his cap to stay in contact with the submarine while remaining undetected. Interestingly, some years later, after sufficient time to declassify the information, he had gathered, he was able to determine the identify and contact (by telephone) the Russian skipper, and the two were able to meet in person. Dave said that as submarine professionals, despite the differences in their countries, they learned of having many things in common.

George Connally (15), who turned 90 two days before the reunion, talked about visiting in Antarctica during the southern winter.

He was a supply officer attached to the Navy Subsistence Office in the early ‘70s and was ordered to go with a group of visitors to McMurdo Sound to check on surveyed food items that had perished because of melting, sustaining above-freezing temperatures for over the allowed time limit. Turned out there was some freakish temperatures that year, and the food stuffs were outside at the time. Now there’s some global warming.

Speaking of turning 90, I was able to contact and talk to Roger Lyle (4) this afternoon (it’s two weeks past the reunion). He reports that he’s now in good shape, but at the time of the reunion he had spent some time in the hospital and felt he couldn’t make the trip. He did say he’s 91 and he wondered if he might’ve been the oldest one if he’d shown up. He didn’t comment about attending a 70th but did say Muriel takes excellent care of him.

60 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Buck (8) and Cristina Buchanan came to the reunion from Portugal, perhaps the longest distance at somewhere around 3,600 miles.

Tom Benson (23) brought his new wife Joanne to show off to the Class. Still waiting for that pic, Tom. Send to (703) 501-6776.

During the final night’s banquet, Chip Honsinger (4) gave the latest news on the ’56 Class Project for the new USNA Alumni Center: We have donated OVER our current goal of $250K, actually $272K, which will earn the Class a display of a large Class Crest on an individual monument.

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

Carl Bramlett “Reb” Wooten, Jr. (19) passed away 10 May 2022. More information, when received, will be given in a later issue of Shipmate.

William Scott “Bill” Hunt (1) of Zebulon, NC passed away 25 April 2022. He was 87.

John Martinko, a non-grad from Youngstown, OH, passed away18 April 2022. He was 88.

Lee Q. McMillan (2) passed away 8 April 2022 while in hospice in Winston Salem, NC. He was 90.

Lee Q. mcMillan Jack Peter Janetatos (1) of Amherst, VA passed away 29 March2022.

Ross Riepert Hatch (18) passed away in Asheville, NC on 8 March 2022. He was 87.

Edmund Burke (8) passed away peacefully in his wife’s arms 23 Feb 2022 in Kailua, HI.

Edmund Burke and his wife

Doug McCrae Egan (2), a non-grad, passed away 21 Feb 2022 in Portland, OR. He was 89.

Raymond John Schreiner (17) passed away 26 Jan 2022. He was 88. A resident of Alexandria, VA, he passed away at Poet’s Walk in Warrenton, VA. James William “Jim” Brunner Sr. (23) passed away 24 Jan 2022. He was 90.

Paul Bernard Cusick (20), a non-graduate, passed away 7 Dec 2021. He was 90.

Algernon Sydney King (17), a non-graduate, passed away 21 Mar 2021. He was 87.

Henry William “Hank” Friedel, Jr. (18) passed away 14 Jan 2020.

Irene Garrison, age78, wife of Chuck Garrison (4), passed away peacefully at the home of her daughter and caretaker, Barbara Bond, in Spring, TX on 21 March 2013 after an extended illness. She was born in Poughkeepsie, NY, married Charles H. Garrison, Jr. in 1956 and began the life of a naval officer’s wife and mother of seven children. In 1971 she moved to Falls Church, VA, where she managed a Russell Stover Candies store at Seven Corners from 1977 until the store closed in 1992. While managing the store she developed long-lasting relationships and touched the lives of customers, employees, friends, and neighbors. Irene is survived by her daughters Beth Garrison (David Watts) of Davie, FL, Barbara Bond of Spring, TX, Mary Ann (Emmanuel) Ross Lampley of Spring, TX, and Carol (Don Gilman) of South Riding, VA; sons Chuck Garrison of Long Beach, CA, David Garrison, and John (Regina) Garrison or Manilla, Philippines; grandchildren Christina Ross, Michell Ross, Taylor Gilman, Kylee and Mark Garrison.

57/57 CLASS NEWS

’57

Life Membership: 70% Donor Participation: 7.35% 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 Corr Sec’y: Col William S. Hamel, USMCR (Ret.) e: wshamel@aol.com Treas: COL John D. Regenhardt, USAF (Ret.) e: don.regenhardt@gmail.com Webmeister: CDR Charles R. Hall, III, USN (Ret.) e: crhall@comcast.net Website: http//1957.usnaclasses.com/

Thoughts and prayers for our families: Barbara Bishop, wife of Ronald Bishop (9), has died. No other info available.

Allen P. Hemphill (19), of Escondido, CA, died 24 January 2022. He was born 22 August 1933. His wife, Jean, preceded him in death 21 August 2021; she was born 27 May 1933.

Helen “Trink” Howe, wife of Jon Howe (12), funeral service was held at Arlington Cemetery on Friday, 20 May at 1500.

Robert T. Lutz, Jr. (12) died 7 April 2022, of complications of a stroke. Bob was born 20 July 1932 in Santa Monica, CA. James P. O’Hara, Jr. (19) was inurned in the USNA columbarium 10 May 2022. He died 20 January. The service was officiated by Jim’s oldest son, Jim III (81). Classmates attending included George Philipps (17), and

Don Regenhardt (20). Jim’s widow unfortunately could not attend as she is in late stages of dementia.

Alan R. Thoeny (9) died 1 April 2022 in Nashville, TN, aged 87. Bob grew up in LaCrosse, WI. Michael J. Trimpert (18), of Brandon, FL, died 27 March 2022. He was born 14 February 1936 in Danbury, CT. Peter Watcher (2) and his wife Betty were inurned at the USNA columbarium 2 May 2022. Pete died in Sumter, SC, 31 August 2021.

He was 89 years old.

Robert F. Wiesenauer (23) died 8 April 2022 at home. He was born 21 September 1935 in Leominster, MA. And now for the news: Dave Cooper (13) reports a successful 65th reunion: M Our 65th reunion was held at the Graduate Annapolis hotel from 3 to 5 May. We had a total of 194 attending, including 85 classmates, nine widows and numerous children and grandchildren.

After a welcome reception on Tuesday evening the third, the next day probably proved to be the highlight of the week. The memorial service in the chapel was exceptional as we read the names of the 68 classmates who have died since our 60th reunion. Bob Crouch (21) who served as the “minister” for the service, brought tears to everyone’s eyes as he discussed what a memorial service should truly be. The weather even held up long

enough for us to get a picture of the attendees in front of the chapel.

We then went to the stadium for a delicious luncheon and where we were entertained by the commandant and had a chance to recognize the latest two “post-docs,” who are supported by our naval heritage fund. The Dant, a Marine, was entertaining and quite impressive as he discussed how he was trying to instill in the midshipmen qualities of character and honesty. Considering that the class of 2024 has spent the last two years with Covid and virtual classes, they have not received the necessary personal and face-to-face leadership that they need. The colonel left little doubt in our minds that he will make sure that they receive it.

Dinner that night was at the hotel, with the exception of the three companies that gathered for their own dinners. The 14th Company with 14 classmates and widows dined at Heritage Harbour, while the 21st Company went to Ken Malley’s (21) retirement home for dinner and the 23rd Company went to the Severn Inn. Thursday morning started with entertaining and informative addresses by our two former naval historians, Nick Lambert and Dave Winkler. There was a lengthy Q&A session, where we learned that the plebes know little about history and cannot read cursive.

That afternoon our more energetic classmates went into the yard to tour the Academy and were impressed with how much

’57: 65th Reunion JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 61

57/58 CLASS NEWS it has changed. The banquet that evening was another highlight with a delicious dinner, singing of “Blue and Gold,” remarks by Class President Dan Cooper (15), and lots of opportunity to mingle with each other.

The next morning we said goodbyes with best wishes and hopes to rejoin again in five more years. Many of us then attended the inurnment of three of our classmates, Ken (18) and Spence McManes (18) and Bill Tirschfield (15).

Finally, I propose a hearty well done and Bravo Zulu to Peter Junghans (11) for all the hard work that he put into making this reunion a total success. It was my pleasure to work with him as a co-chairman but the credit is all his.

And now, Bill Aldenderfer (23) shares a tale of life among the stars in the Supply Corps: M I was truly blessed being a Supply Corps officer. Though an Academy graduate, I was denied the opportunity to fly or even drive ships as a straight line officer due to somewhat poor eyesight. I went to Athens as a Supply School student with a number of other Academy grads, including a room-mate, the late Ron Hall (23).

My first duty station was the destroyer USS RICHARD E. KRAUS (EDD849). The ship was used to test new radar, sonar and other electrical gear, so we generally steamed alone.

As a result, the captain, who was also USNA made me a good deal. If I stood duty on the bridge at sea, he took me off the watch bill in port, where as the SUPO I was generally the busiest. What a deal, I got to drive ships after all!

After KRAUS, I got orders to Naval Station Lakehurst, NJ, as OIC of the commissary store there. And that began my second career as “friend of celebrity” At Lakehurst I met Joe DiMaggio (former New York Yankee great) who worked then for a coffee supplier to the store. Joe and I visited the Little League teams in the area together. I ran into him a number of times later and through him I met Sid Luckman (Chicago Bears QB) and Joe’s boss at the time, Morton Downey.

Following Lakehurst, I went to Hawaii as aide to Admiral Aubrey Bourgeois. As aide I was put in touch with people like Duke Kahanamoku (U.S. and Hawaii Olympic hero) and Daniel Inouye (Hawaii senator). In fact I had additional duty as aide to Senator Inouye for the opening of the USS ARIZONA Memorial and my picture was on the wall of the memorial for years.

Following Hawaii, where I also worked in the fuel department and in data processing, I went to grad school in petroleum management 62 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

at Kansas Univ, then for a year at my own hometown, Alexandria, VA, at Defense Fuel Supply Center. In June 1967 I was assigned as fuel officer at NSA Danang, Vietnam, with additional duties as I Corps POL Coordinator.

After VN, I got orders to USS LITTLE ROCK (CLG4), the Sixth Fleet flagship, based in Gaeta, Italy. Upon arrival, I discovered that just a few days previously the admiral had “fired” the staff supply officer and I was assigned additional duties as staff SUPO, until a replacement arrived. As it turned out, the admiral must have liked me and I kept the job my entire tour in LITTLE ROCK. As a result, I not only helped host many celebrities and dignitaries visiting the ship, like the Prince of Monaco and his wife Princess Grace Kelly, but was assigned duty to handle all logistics for the Bob Hope Xmas show in Europe that year of 1969. I met and not only rode with Mr. Hope and his wife from place to place and even had some meals with him and even attended the rehearsal for the show.

Following Gaeta, I ended up in Manchester, WA, as fuel officer at NSC Puget Sound. There, as a result of some work we accomplished on the base, I was put on the staff and environmental board of the then governor of the State of Washington, Dixie Lee Ray, former head of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. One day during my tour at Manchester, a gentleman walked into my office and introduced himself as Charles Lindbergh. He was looking for his son who worked nearby. Needless to say, I drove him over to his son’s office and marked another notch on my celebs list.

I write all of this not because I did anything special, but I probably never would have met all these famous people if I had not been a Supply Corps officer and had the jobs that I was lucky enough to get. Also as a result of the Navy making me a “fuel specialist” I was to go on to work with the mayor of Yokohama, Japan, the prime minister of Malaysia, and the son of the president of Indonesia, in the “after-life” following my retirement from the Navy in 1977.

But that’s another story (and a good one!).

As further evidence that golf is addictive, we can report that our 2022 season has opened, as usual, with a round at Enterprise, in Bowie, MD. Dave Cooper hosted, and decreed “no prizes” – this for pure camaraderie. Stalwarts attending included President Dan Cooper, Jerry Smith (1), George Philipps (17), Bob Crouch (21), Bill Hamel (23), friend Erve Easton, and ’58 ringers Taylor Keith and Mike Salmon.

Dear readers, please keep those cards and letters coming. And let us savor each day remaining to us. – WSH.

’58

Life Membership: 63% Donor Participation: 7.84% 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

65TH REUNION NEWS – In the Class column in the June issue of Shipmate I suggested that it is time to make your reservations for the reunion. The dates are 13-16 April 2023 and our Reunion Hotel is the Westin Annapolis. The phone number for reservations is 888 627-8994 and the online reservation address for reservations is: https://www. marriott.com/event-reservations/reservationlink.mi?id=1651531010237&key=GRP&app= resvlink For questions about the Westin Annapolis or about making reservations contact Mike Giglio, 10th Company, at: giglio3936@aol.com or 703-751-7956.

MORE REUNION NEWS – Now for those who may have forgotten let me comment on the weather in Annapolis in April. The average daily high temperature is 65-68 degrees F and the average daily low is 48-45 degrees F so think cool and breezy. April is also the wettest month in Annapolis with a 36% chance of rain on any given day. So, next April when you come to the 65th Reunion, bring a sweater and/or jacket and don’t forget the rain gear.

COST PER GRADUATE – In an earlier class column I reported on how much a Midshipman is paid these days which is about 10 times what we were paid. But that amount is only a small part of what it costs the taxpayers for a brand, new Navy/Marine Officer after 4 years at Annapolis. According to the Academy PAO the cost for the Class of 2020 was $438,740 per graduate.

JUNE 4TH, A DATE TO REMEMBER – Byron Brooks was an enlisted naval aviator (NAP) in the Navy prior to WWII. He was in Torpedo Squadron Five (VT-5) aboard USS Yorktown. On a flight over the Atlantic his plane went down and he was lost at sea. The date was June 4th 1941. William Lawe was also an enlisted man in the Navy. He was assigned to Torpedo Squadron Eight (VT-8) on board USS Hornet as a gunner on a TBF Avenger. During the battle of Midway his plane was shot down and he was killed. The date was June 4th 1942. Their sons, Paul

58/58 CLASS NEWS

USNA Class of 1958

65TH REUNION ANNAPOLIS, MD 13 TO 16 APRIL 2023

HEADQUARTERS HOTEL:

THE WESTIN ANNAPOLIS For information and questions; email: wgschramm@gmail.com or call: 831 484-9058

“5 8 is GREAT” JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 63

58/59 CLASS NEWS Brooks and Dick Lawe both attended the Naval Academy with the Class of 1958. Moreover both were together in the 22nd Company and both graduated with our Class. The date was June 4th 1958. Paul and Dick both went on to become aviators. Paul in the Navy and Dick in the Marines. Four men, separated by years yet united by love of Country, by fate and by a date to remember; June 4th.

WASHINGTON CHAPTER LUNCHEON – Once again Classmates and spouses in the Washington area gathered for an enjoyable luncheon. The speaker for the event was Professor Claude Berube who is the Director of the USNA Museum. Besides managing the museum the Professor teaches classes in history and elective courses such as hands on war gaming, the War of 1812 Naval Tactics (which includes a sailing event), courses about naval battles using ship replicas, etc. If you attend our 65th you might find a visit to the museum very interesting and worth the time.

Attending the luncheon were Jack and Ann Adams, Dan Bellay, John Carty, Whitey and Lois Edwards, Linda Gamboa, Gorden and Jane Gerson, Mike and Eileen Giglio, Kay Powell and Bev Smedberg.

JACK ADAMS AND PROFESSOR BERUBE

WHEN DID WE BECOME MIDSHIPMEN? –Most of us, if asked that question, would say 28 June 1954, but in fact only 923 of the 1221 in our Class were sworn in on that day. There were 24 more “swearing in ceremonies” for the other 298 members of our class before our final Classmate took the oath on 17 August.

Sometimes it was only a ceremony for 1, but sometimes it was a significant number such as on 6 July when the number was 83. Anybody out there among the 298 who can explain why they missed the big day on 28 June?

CLOSING RANKS – Jim Hocker, 5th Company, died on 26 February 2022 Jay Taylor, 1st Company, died on 14 April 2022 Dick Keefe, 4th Company, died on 22 April 2022

64 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Dave Ault 10th Company, died on 8 May 2022 Alex Martella, 13th Company, died on 1 May 2022 Kent Lawrence, 16th Company, died on 12 May 2022 Richard McKelvey, non-grad, died on 5 April 2022 Becky Caldwell, widow of Bob Caldwell 18th Company, passed away on 31 March 2022 Sarah Withers, wife of Bill Withers 19th Company, passed away on 27 April 2022 Marge Hernandez, wife of Jess Hernandez 3rd Company and our 1958 Color Girl, passed away on 31 March 2022

’59

Life Membership: 65% Donor Participation: 6.93% Chairman Exec. Committee: Gerald G Garbacz Shipmate Editor: Ed Hill p: 301-943-4185; e: hilled@aol.com Webmasters: Pete and Elaine Stout Website: www.USNA1959.com

My Experience at NASA, by Ed Manton (4).

After serving four years in the USAF in an Atlas ICBM squadron at F. E. Warren AFB, I was employed by NASA between 1963 and 1972 at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) during the Apollo Program. I served as Chief of the Planning and Technical Support Operations Office for the Launch Support Operations Directorate. This Directorate was responsible for the operation and maintenance of the facilities and ground support equipment directly supporting the Saturn V/Apollo launches and for the technical shops and specialized laboratories needed to support launch vehicle operational activities.

In anticipation of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing, I published an article describing the efforts of the NASA government and contractor workers at KSC in launching the Saturn V rockets. The article appeared in “Quest: the History of Space Flight Quarterly” in 2019 and focused specifically on Rocco A. Petrone, a pioneer in rocketry and space flight. I personally observed his efforts, which, in my view, were essential to land a man on the moon by President Kennedy’s deadline of 1969. First, he conceived and justified to NASA the innovative and very challenging process for stacking and integrating the three Saturn V rocket stages and the Apollo spacecraft and then transporting the assembled 368-foot rocket in a vertical position three and a half miles from its huge

assembly building to the launch site. He then managed the planning, development, and activation of the unique and massive facilities and ground support systems required to assemble, checkout, and launch the gigantic space vehicle.

Upon completion of the construction of the immense and highly specialized Saturn V launch facilities, he assumed the role of KSC Director of Launch Operations. In this position, he developed the intricate and precise checkout and countdown procedures used to conduct the first six highly successful Saturn /Apollo launches, including Apollo 11. Following the lunar landing, he was put in charge of the entire Apollo Program and later became Director of the Marshal Spaceflight Center. In 1975, he retired as the Associate Administrator of NASA. He passed away in 2006.

While attending the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 at KSC, I discussed my article with several NASA retirees. They also felt that President Kennedy’s goal would not have been achieved without Petrone’s efforts. I suggested that some form of tribute should be accorded Petrone at the Space Center. This led the Florida Chapter of the NASA Alumni League to submit a request to NASA, with my article attached, to name the KSC Launch Control Center for him. On February 22, 2022, this renowned Center, from which every Saturn V and Shuttle launch was controlled, was named for Rocco A. Petrone, a belated, but welldeserved honor. Somewhat ironically for me - Petrone was a graduate of West Point, Class of 1946! He played tackle on the 1944 and 1945 Army national championship football teams with Glenn Davis and Doc Blanchard under the iconic Army Coach, Earl Blaik.

U.S. Naval Academy Superintendent’s Annual Leadership Award. The Superintendent’s Annual Leadership and Vision Award dinner was held on Tuesday March 29, 2022 in Annapolis, Md. This essay award program, now in its fifth year, was conceived and sponsored by Dr. J. Phillip (Jack) London ’59 USNA, Former Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board of CACI International Inc. and administered by the Naval Historical Foundation (NHF). It is designed to promote the study and interpretation of the lessons of naval history as they apply to today’s maritime challenges; and the ability to inspire, advocate, and educate in public venues. The evening was a wonderful tribute to both Drs. Jack and Jennifer London, as well as a celebration of the hard work of our Midshipmen. Jack was honored posthumously for his leadership and support of the Naval Historical Foundation.

The three finalists were:

59/59 CLASS NEWS First Place: “Heir to Star Wars: Missile Defense from SDI to Lasers,” by Midshipman 2/C Nels Waaraniemi ’23 Second Place: “Drowning the Sun: Defeating Imperial Japanese A2/AD and Its Application to China,” by Midshipman 3/C Quentin Zimmer ’24 Third Place: “The Three Cobblers Partnership: Maritime Insurgency in the Malay Archipelago,”

by Midshipman 1/C Peter Passaro ’22 First place winner, Midshipman Waaraniemi presented his paper to the esteemed audience that included USNA Superintendent VADM Sean Buck, Chief of Naval Personnel VADM John Nowell, former Commander of the Naval Air Forces VADM Tom Kilcline, Chairman of the Naval Historical Foundation Board ADM Bill Fallon, Executive Director of the Naval Historical Foundation, RADM Sonny Masso, and former POW RADM Bob Shumaker. Also in attendance were Naval Historical Foundation leadership, USNA faculty and staff, and parents, friends and guests of the Midshipman.

Second Place: “We Must Remediate Toxic Leadership,” Lieutenant Commander Courtney Callaghan, USN. Published in the May issue of Proceedings Magazine Third Place: “It Starts with Trust,” Lieutenant Commander Brian Harrington, USN To be published in the June issue of Proceedings Magazine Essay sponsor, Dr. Jennifer London and Bill Hamblet, Editor in Chief of Proceedings presented the award to the first place winner, Major Kerg who attended in person and gave his acceptance speech for his essay. The third and second place Leadership essay award winners were unable to attend in-person and provided pre-recorded acceptance remarks.

The program concluded with a special discussion with some of the Institute’s American Sea Power Project authors including the Honorable John F. Lehman, Jr, former Secretary of the Navy (1981–87) Dr. Thomas Mahnkin, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments; and Sarah C. M. Paine, Ph.D., William S. Sims University Professor, U.S. Naval War College.

Left to right: ADM Bill Fallon, Midshipman 1/C Peter Passaro (3rd place), Midshipman 3/C Quentin Zimmer (2nd place), Midshipman 2/C Nels Waaraniemi (1st place), Dr. Jennifer London, VADM Sean Buck, RADM Sonny Masso.

USNI Leadership Essay Winners. The Annual Meeting of the Naval Institute was held on Wednesday May 11th at the Jack C. Taylor Conference Center in Annapolis, Md. The meeting was kicked off with an update on the Institute by USNI CEO Vice Admiral Pete Daly, USN (Ret). Admiral Daly’s presentation was followed by various award presentations including winners of the 2021 Leadership Essay Contest sponsored by Dr. Jack London ’59. The USNI Leadership Essay Contest focuses on the roles of leadership and character in the U.S. Sea Services from the perspective of tomorrow’s leaders. Junior officers from the U.S. Navy, Marine Corp., and Coast Guard are eligible to participate.

This year’s winners were: First Place: “Leading Through Defeat,” Major Brian Kerg, USMC Published in the April issue of Proceedings Magazine

Left to right: Bill Hamblet, Major Brian Kerg and Dr. Jennifer London

TAPS William Palmer (7) passed away on 14 January 2022. Married to Suzanne Breedlove on graduation day, Bill was commissioned in the Air Force, and flew 100 combat missions during the Vietnam War. Bill accumulated a total of 3,399 flight hours and retired from the Air Force as a Colonel with many honors.

Funeral services were scheduled at the Arlington National Cemetery for 11 May 2022.

RADM Edward Bigelow Baker, Jr, (8) (Ret.) passed away peacefully on 26 January 2022. Ted was known for his leadership, strong character, intellect, and Midwestern sense of humor. In his first year after graduation, he served as 1st Lieutenant and AssistantWeapons Officer aboard two ships. Ted earned a BS in Physics with the University of Michigan. He was appointed commander of a new Destroyer, a Destroyer Squadron, and an Amphibious Group, Services will be held on 8 July 2022 at Grace Church in Alexandria, VA, followed by burial at Arlington National Cemetery.

Joni Schnauffer, wife of Pat Schnauffer (18), who passed on 4 March 2021, was inurned in the Columbarium at USNA on 13 April 2022. Pat, his family, and close friends attended the celebration of Joni’s life on a beautiful day.

(L-R) Wayne Hildebrand, Caroline Szczypinski, Pat Schnauffer and Walt Szczypinski. (all 18th company)

Captain Michael Edward Fitzgerald (Navy.

Ret) (15) passed away on 22 March 2022.

He died peacefully in the hospital following an extended period with leukemia. Mike served 30 years in the Navy, and his final sea duty assignment was as Chief of Staff for a Battle Group aboard the aircraft carrier CARL VINSON based out of Alameda California. Following his Navy retirement, he taught high school math at San Luis Obispo’s Mission Preparatory High School for another 18 years. A memorial service was scheduled for 4 April.

Margaret Drozd, wife of Robert (14), died at home on 13 March 2022 surrounded by her family at the end of this long battle with MS. Marge grew up enjoying summers at the Jersey shore where she first met her husband of 61 years. Her education was at Penn State, where she earned her teaching credentials.

After her graduation, Marge and Bob were married in June 1961. They settled at Craig AFB in Selma, Alabama where Marge taught eighth grade English at Selma Junior High School. She had settled on a full-time career teaching, but slowed down after their third set of twins, and settled for substitute teaching.

Visitation was on 30 March, with ceremonies and internment the next day.

Robert Wright (21) passed away on 24 March 2022, peacefully holding hands with Donna, his wife of 59 years. Following his tour on the USS Menhaden submarine he left the Navy and spent the next 30 years working as an engineer for Shell Oil. Bob and Donna spent their spare time traveling and exploring the world, first with their children, then grandchildren. A drop-in remembrance was held at their home on 2 April, and a committal ceremony at the Naval Academy Columbarium will take place this summer.

Robert Larson (3) died on 23 March. He had suffered a serious stroke in mid-February, JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 65

59/60 CLASS NEWS and then he was in and out of the hospital before passing while under hospice care.

Robert chose Navy Air, and soon was flying the A4, A7, and F8 before his selection to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to earn his MS degree. Robert had a very successful Navy career, with tours as XO and CO of Navy squadrons, and another as of Chair and Professor of Naval Science at Iowa State University.

After retirement from the Navy, Robert was a pilot for Pan Am and later pilot trainer for Northwest.

Nella Maria Ghiglione de Ortega, husband of Walter Ortega (11), passed away on 4 April 2022. Residents of Hollywood, FL she is survived by her husband, three daughters, two sons along with fourteen grandchildren and twentyplus great grandchildren. It is very sad for the loss of an amazing, talented and beautiful woman with incredible God-given musical talents that she utilized to give joy to everyone that she touched. Our mother Nella Maria will be greatly missed, but always remembered for the legacy that she leaves of Faith, Hope and Love, with the greatest being “Love”. Visitation, memorial services and burial were held on 8 April 2022.

Rose McAree, wife of Captain Bill McAree (23), passed away on 5 April 2022. Rose earned a BS in Education from the U of West VA, then took a teaching job in Annapolis, where she met her future husband. Rose married Ensign McAree after his USNA graduation and began her life as a devoted naval wife. Bill was in submarines, and Rose started a teaching career. After many years moving and homemaking, she earned a Real Estate license and changed her career. Funeral services were held on 29 April at the Episcopal Church, Norfolk, VA. Adolph “Buzzy” Peters (5) passed away on 18 April 2022 at St. Luke’s Hospice, Bethlehem, PA. Buzzy was initially in the 5th company and then was dropped in the middle of his third year due to being physically disqualified. Buzzy completed his education with Kings College in Wilkes-Barre, PA then eventually qualified as the principal at several high schools. Funeral services were held on 23 April in St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, Freeland, PA. James “Jim” Lowe (14) died on 18 April 2022 at Overlake Hospital in Bellevue, WA. Surrounded by his two children and two grandchildren, he died from a cerebral hemorrhage. After his USNA graduation, he married Judith Linn and was assigned to the destroyer LOWRY (DD770), taking part in the Cuban missile crisis. His last ship was the THUBAN (AKA19), then he spent several more years in the Reserves. Jim’s civilian career with The Weyerhaeuser Company involved several 66 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

engineering positions in his civilian years.

Services for Jim will be held at USNA later this year.

Robert “Bud” McFarlane (14) died 12 May. Bud died on Thursday after an exacerbation of a previous lung condition. He was hospitalized while visiting family in Michigan. Bud had chosen to serve in the US Marine Corps and was assigned two tours in Vietnam as director of artillery battery. Still in the Marines, he was selected as a White House Fellow. Following his USMC retirement he was selected by President Reagan as National Security Advisor.

’60

Life Membership: 71% Donor Participation: 9.07% Pres: RADM Peter G. Chabot, USN (Ret.) p: 443-624-0094; e: pgchabot60@gmail.com Vice Pres: CAPT Douglas M. Johnston Jr., USNR (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

From Doug Johnston (5):

LCDR Kayla Barron ’10 performing her magic in the International Space Station alongside of Col Raja Chari USAF

M “Our February lunch featured Col. John Berry, USA (Ret.), as our guest speaker. John, who heads the DC chapter of the West Point Class of ’60, capitalized on his past experience with the 101st Airborne and 9th Infantry Division, as Director of the European Policy Office in the Pentagon, and as Dean of the NATO Defense College in Rome to Col John Barry, West Point Class of ’60, sharing insights assess the conduct on Afghanistan

of our recent war in Afghanistan. In doing so, he noted various points along the way at which we could have conceivably extricated ourselves with heads held considerably higher than they were when the conflict finally concluded. His assessment gave rise to a rich and thoughtful discussion.

On the strength of one link in the cable, Dependeth the might of the chain.

Who knows when thou may’st be tested?

So, live that thou bearest the strain!

March was special. Our speaker was LCDR John Ulett from the Class of 2010. Introducing him provided an opportunity to pay tribute to Bob Osmon (17) for the great job he did in leading our Link in the Chain effort some 16 years ago. A tip of the hat as well to my former roommate, Larry Ryan (5), who paved the way for us to actually participate alongside the Class of 2010 plebes as they underwent the formidable challenges of their day of Sea Trials. It was Larry’s idea, and he was able to run it up the flagpole with the then Commandant of Midshipmen who he ran into at an event in the Northwest. She gave her approval, but that was apparently the only time such authorization was granted. As far as can be determined, we are the only class to have ever been granted that privilege.

Although our participation went without incident, concerns over potential liability and the like apparently nipped that possibility in the bud for all future classes. I participated in the swimming phase of the Sea Trials while other classmates hit various other phases.

Knowing it to have been a history-making affair makes the memory all the sweeter.

LCDR John Douglas (“JD”) Ulett is a submariner who has thus far served aboard four submarines, including the USS Newport News (SSN750), the USS Toledo (SSN769), the USS Olympia (SSN717), and the USS Ohio (SSGN726). The crews he served with collectively earned 4-unit awards, 2 Battle “E”s and an Artic Service Medal. He completed an around-the-world deployment while on the Olympia; and is currently serving ashore as the Special Programs Requirements Officer in the Undersea Warfare Division of OPNAV. His greatest claim to fame, though, is the fact that he happens to be my nephew (actually, it’s the other way around).

JD gave an inspiring overview of his career, in which two things stood out. First was his decision at one point along the way to withdraw his letter of resignation because of a unique leadership opportunity that came along (which he did exceedingly well by) and the realization that such opportunities would be few and far between in the private sector.

60/60 CLASS NEWS I heard from Jim Dudley’s (18) widow Judy:

’60: LCDR John Ulett with his proud uncle and Link in the Chain mentors.

Second, was the almost cavalier manner in which major decisions are typically made by his age group. “It sounded cool, so I did it (as in decided to go in one career direction or another).” Whereas the norm in our era was to decide after ponderous reflection what company we wanted to work for and retire from (after working there for the rest of our lives).

A great example of the former is the decision made by one of JD’s classmates to become an astronaut after having been among the first group of women commissioned into the submarine service. Several years into her service and owing to an unusual set of circumstances, she was invited to become an astronaut. So, as we were having lunch, she was doing her country proud as a Mission Specialist aboard the International Space Station. The chain is mighty indeed.

Those who were present at one or both lunches included Don Boecker (15), Hank Chiles (21), Kathy and Gary Cogdell (7), Martha and George Dowell (19), Dennis Hickey (22), Darlene Matulka, Barbara and Ward O’Brien (22), Becky and Dick Pariseau (1), Grant Sharp (19), Jeanne and Tom Solak (2), Charlotte and Bob Stevenson (2), Duane Tollaksen (3), Dolly and Gene Tucker (9), Dareen and yours truly.

Greenhalgh, Febel & Hamon at lunch

Joel is doing well. He moves a little slowly and needs a walker (Don’t we all?) but his mind is sharp and we had a good conversation going the entire time. Over the weekend his lady friend Sarah drove up from Norfolk and together they went to the Williamsburg outlet mall for four hours, so I would say that was great.

Anyhow, I was so pleased to see him.

I asked if he had any message for me to pass on to Ron Hinkel (14), and he said yes.“Tell him I am more handsome now than he has ever been!!” So, you see, he hasn’t lost his sense of humor. Just thought you all would like an update. God bless. Oz

M “I was married to Jim Dudley ’60 and sadly he has been gone for many years. Reference to article in Jan/Feb Shipmate “On the Brink” Cuban Missile Crisis. We were living in Bermuda as Jim was with VP 49 flying P5Ms. Our first child was born September 26, 1962!

I remember the night Jim came home from work to say President Kennedy was to speak that evening and we were to try and listen!

We did get the broadcast and I realized how far from our families we really were. The telephone rang at around 2:00 a.m. and Jim was called in to fly! It was a time I will never forget. In the weeks following, the squadron was on high alert and crews were flying. At some point, crews were sent to spend weeks flying out of “Gitmo”. Jim’s turn for that was in December 62- Jan 63. The article in Shipmate featured four USNA graduates from ‘56 and ‘58 and I wondered how many other young Ensigns from ’60 were involved in the events of the Cuban Missile Crisis? Not asking for a survey, but wishing Jim was here to share his memories of those days. I am in touch with the PPC of Jim’s crew and he fondly recalled that twice when they were flying out of Gitmo they lost an engine!

This was toward the end of the life of the P5M as VP-49 transitioned to the P3A in the fall of 1963, and the squadron moved from Bermuda to Patuxent River, MD. Once the squadron was trained in the P3 they deployed back to Kindley AFB in Bermuda, five weeks deployed, four weeks home! Thanks for listening! I hope you and your family are well.

Go Navy! Beat Army!

—Judy Dudley Our SoCal 60 group again met in Coronado for lunch. Attending were Joyce & Chuck Schroeder (23), Nancy & John Pethick (9), Glee & John Schmidt (20), Jan Shaw (2), Avery & Bennie Hallowell (3), Ann & George Marburger (20), and Denny Crawford (2).

From Bob Osmon (17): M “Dear Classmates and Ron Hinkel (14) in particular. After more than two years, frustrated by Joel being in assisted living and the pandemic rules, I finally got the opportunity to have lunch with him today. Jack Greenhalgh (9) made all the arrangements and Dick Hamon (8) was able to join us also.

I just want to give everyone a quick update and provide the attached photo. ’60:SOCAL Lunch group JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 67

61/61 CLASS NEWS

’61

Life Membership: 73% Donor Participation: 7.49% 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, To strike a tone of summer, here’s a way to keep young as reported by Bill Ciesla (18).

M “I have been biking for years and always wanted to do the annual New York State Parks Department Cycle the Canal ride from my hometown of Buffalo to Albany but was unable to do the ride because of my wife’s illness.

After Nina died, I decided to try the ride and signed up for it in July 2021. I especially enjoyed having my nephew, Bill Nowakowski (Father of Krystyna Nowakowski USNA ‘14) join me on the ride. The course followed the path of the Erie Canal and covered about 420 miles over eight days. Because it followed the canal, there were very few hills to climb other than the ones to several of the nightly camping sites. About 250 riders signed up with a median age about 60. The oldest person on the ride was an 88-year-old lady, and I was probably the second oldest. I slept in a tent on an air mattress. This was the first time I had done that since scout camp in 1954. The organizers moved the tent and my luggage to a new site each day. It rained on several of the days which made sleeping in the tent and riding the trail quite an adventure. I traveled with a very cordial mix of fellow riders and visited many historic and scenic sites along the way. I had a lot of fun and was very happy to be able to finish the ride. The photo was taken at the finish line in Albany along the Hudson River. I do not plan to repeat the ride this year but may try it again in 2023”.

‘61: in Gurneé Conference Room

From the (recent) archives: Here are two scenes from the Ted and Michelle Gurneé Conference Room taken during the 11 September 2021 dedication of the Ron Terwilliger ’63 Center for Student-Athletes at Ricketts Hall. (I don’t know how anybody is expected to get serious work done with that spectacular view of the Chesapeake Bay to distract.) In the first, left to right, Tom White (20) Helaine Moreno, Ernie Moreno (23), Kathy Rosenberger (6 - Anchor) Bill Ciesla(18), Nina Corby (guest), Ben Gerson (19), Jerry Smith (8) Susan Winfree, and Howie Winfree (3). In the photo with Bay view left to right, it’s Bill Ciesla, Kathy Rosenberger, Michelle Gurneé (18 -Anchor), Jerry Smith, Susan Winfree, and Howie Winfree.

It’s hard to describe the new Center without using the word “spectacular”. To see for yourself, check more photos and the official three-minute video at navysports.com/ Terwilliger Center.

Bill Ciesla on the Hudson ‘61: San Diego group at Costa Azul 68 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’61 in Gurneé Conference Room – Bay view

The Social Scene From Ned Kuhns “The Tidewater ’61 Group held their April monthly luncheon at the Military Aviation Museum in the Pungo area south of Virginia Beach. Ken Craig (07) is a long-time docent at the museum and arranged for a tour including

61/62 CLASS NEWS a box lunch prepared by Panera restaurant.

The museum has an amazing collection of flyable planes going back to World War I plus other military equipment and exhibits, including a World War II Control Tower brought back from England and reassembled. If you are in the area, spend a day there. You’ll never be bored. In addition to Ken, who conducted the tour, attendees were: Joe Kuhn (03 - Honorary), Ned Kuhns (07), Fred Lowack (07) and his guest Pat Hixson, Tom McNicholas (09), Buzz Needham (12), Jim Noonan (23), Kurt Rohdenburg (20), and Charlie Stewart (06).

Sorry, no photo this time.”

From Bob Sheridan: The San Diego 61ers went out to lunch on the Bay in Coronado on April 12. As with snipes around a scuttlebutt, there was plenty of fact and fiction to share. Around the table (clockwise from 6 o’clock) Bob Sheridan (24), Gary Carlson (10), Leo Willetts (5), Ralph Zimmerman (12), Bruce Maxon (15) and Frank Butsko (1) (both standing), Steve Perry(16), Bill Kraus (12), Jim Richardson(16), Dick Rothwell (7), Chuck St. Laurent (21), Ed Oleata (10), Jack Allen (13), and Tom Bailey(16). This was the first luncheon since the Age of Dr. Fauci and everyone seemed glad to see the cave dwelling come to an end. Our next lunch will be at Rockin’ Baja Lobster in Old Town on June 14, with Bruce Maxon as go-to guy.

The Annapolis faithful gathered at McGarvey’s in May for the usual exchange of stories. Virginia was well represented by Connell, Fitch and Hoppe. Most distance travelled goes to Jack Pappas from remote Lusby in southern Maryland. The main item on the agenda was the call for food items for the

resumption of the annual spring Pipes and Drums party at the home of Jerry and Jill Smith. Professor of Leadership Education Doug Rau’ 74 renewed his appreciation of the support the class provides to the leadership program. He added that the new Commandant of Midshipmen Col. J. P. McDonough (no relation to MacDonough Hall which is undergoing a much-needed rehab) is bringing more honor leadership into Bancroft Hall, involving officers and midshipman leaders in honor aspects of midshipman life. He also shared his experience as a Link in the Chain class as ’74 joins ’24 in the Bonds of Gold where some ’74 rings are in the gold from which 24’s rings are made. In the photo left to right: Tim Dugan (12), Jack Pappas (2) (in front of Dugan), Bob Glover (8), Bill Ciesla (18), Warren Hoppe (21), Jay Bower (14), Jerry Smith (8), Jim Connell (2), Bob Sherer (4)

Annapolis group at McGarvey’s

Post-COVID item The annual Pipes and Drums spring cookout took place at Jerry and Jill Smith’s waterfront casita just restored from winter damage. Local classmates brought food, drink and desserts

for the occasion (the first since 2019). As always, the Midshipmen were amazed to hear of our primitive circumstances of yore (“Oh yes, I’ve heard of the Gearing class”), while we were dazzled with all the high tech, and newfangled things today’s Midshipmen do as well as the greater freedoms. Of course, we were honored with a bagpipe serenade. Sorry, no audio attached.

Our sports legend this issue: Charles “Chuck” Davis Chuck Davis came to the Academy from Arlington, VA. He was destined to become one of the greatest pitchers in the annals of Navy Baseball.

Chuck played for Navy from 1959 through 1961 with 32 complete 9 inning games, 29 wins and 5 losses.

He accumulated 347 strikeouts with an ERA of 1.04. His season and career strikeouts record stood for 58 years before being broken by Noah Song in 2019. He also shares the record for season and career shutouts.

Chuck’s 1961 team, which was captained by Joe Bellino and included a hard hitting second baseman, Ron Terwilliger ’63, was 24-2 and the Eastern Collegiate Champions. Chuck also played in the 1959 Pan American games, where he pitched a complete game to beat Cuba, earning a Bronze Medal for the USA. He was selected as a college All American in 1961.

Later, Chuck returned to the Naval Academy, coaching Plebe baseball from 1970 to 1972.

Chuck chose Marine Corps Ground and served as a Marine Infantry Officer for 25 years, including service at Guantanamo Bay, and in Vietnam as a rifle company commander and battalion operations officer. He was awarded the Bronze Star with combat “V” for that service.

’62

Life Membership: 76% Donor Participation: 8.26% Pres: CDR Walter F. Welham Jr., USN (Ret.) p: 703-501-1665; e: waltwelham@gmail.com Sec’y: Robert Giles 1749 Baldwin Dr., Millersville, MD 21108 p: 301-395-4379; e: robert.giles@gmail.com

So here we are a month before our 60th Graduation Reunion, and I have another opportunity to report how several of our classmates come together to support one 61 Pipes and Drums relaxing at the spring cookout JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 69

62/62 CLASS NEWS another or their families. This was written during the last week of May, 2022 and I have not yet received my crystal ball so my information is potentially three or so months behind.

First, Wayne Hickam’s Doctor retired on him, and forced Wayne to get another Doctor.

This Doctor recognized Wayne as a smoker and immediately started a chain of events that escalated into Wayne being the recipient of three bypasses, not valves, made from a vein from one of his legs. He’s still not home, OK. He comes home approx. 6/9/’22. We have been playing phone tag and I don’t have Wayne’s version of all the intricacies and hidden mechanisms that Wayne would surely have examined before allowing this minor surgery, but he is home and doing well. Before all this he planned to be at the Reunion and will be staying at my house when not in downtown Annapolis.

Wayne is still a combination of a cat with nine lives and an Ever-Ready Battery.

Second. Ed Crowley’s wife Julie has been trying to keep me and Bob Crawford up to date on Ed’s journey thru the VA Medical system. I think he was in for work on his heart when he complicated things by falling and breaking his hip or vice-versa. Julie reported they had difficulty getting reasonable care with the VA, and he came home to be in her care. Last I heard that at home care has become too difficult for her and they are seeking better arrangements for Ed. I should have an update before Homecoming and will share with all that inquire about it at Homecoming.

Third. This column isn’t intended to compete with Shipmate’s obituary section “Last Call.” This submittal is not an obit about John Lindgren’s passing but a submittal to show fellow classmates that there is evidence that we do come together to support each other and our classmates’ families in time of need.

Passing of John Lindgren (02) M Hi Stew, Louisa and I attended the beautiful military graveside service for John today. He was given a 21-gun salute (7 riflemen; three shots each) by the American Legion post of which he was part of the leadership. Taps was played on a trumpet. All quite moving. Gail received the American Flag which traditionally covers the casket. It was displayed and folded for her by John’s fellow Legionaries. I estimate 30-40 people attended, including Legionaries and Chaplain A lovely reception was held at the Lindgren home not far away in Corona Del Mar. Several people offered remembrances. One was delivered by classmate Corbin McNeill. By the

70 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’62: Program for John’s memorial service

way, Myron Fleming and his wife Susan were also in attendance.

The service was filmed and, according to the videographer, will probably be made available on Facebook or the like. However, I did not discuss that with Gail. She may have other ideas.

Included are some photos of the proceedings and the Program.

Brgds, John Kenny

Pacific View Memorial Park

62/63 CLASS NEWS

’63

Life Membership: 64% Donor Participation: 9.34% 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

Lindgren Graveside

Legionaries after 21 Gun Salute

Myron Fleming, Corbin McNeill, Susan Fleming, John Kenny and Louisa Kenny

With respect for our departed classmates and family members we begin this month’s column on a sad note. Reported below are the deaths of two of our classmates. Please honor them by visiting the Last Call section of our web site to read their obituaries and other information preserved there. We also learned of the loss of two other members of the Class of 1963 family who are named below.

William D. Davidson died on 25 April.

Doug’s widow, Charlsie, may be contacted at 4012 Spring Island, Okatie, SC 21403.

Ronald J. Klemick passed away on 14 May. Ron’s widow, Sandy, may be contacted at 321 Lady Marion Court, Cary, NC 27518.

Sue Cole, widow of our classmate Ben Cole, died suddenly on 22 April. Condolences may be sent to Sue and Ben’s daughter, Debbie Kiriakides, at 18 Saint Augustine Drive, Greenville, SC 29615.

We also learned that Shelley and Cole Lindell’s son, Will, passed away on 19 May. Shelley can be contacted at 121 Troon Way, Aiken, SC 28903.

Bob Harper wrote to say that he had attended the service for John Middleton at the Naval academy on 8 April. He said that after members of John’s family recounted special memories, several of our classmates spoke briefly. The first was Ted Batzel who talked of

John’s accomplishments, friends, and classmates. Other speakers included Jim Ring, Spencer Johnson, and Bob. The Class of 1963 was well represented by Mario Fiori, Ted Batzel, Jace Singler, Spencer Johnson, Jim Fontana, Wink Wilkinson, Steve Duncan, Jeff Miles and Bob Harper.

Bob Maier sent this report about the latest annual gathering of 23rd Company classmates. They continue to maintain a remarkable tradition.

M This spring, the 23rd Company resumed their annual fishing trip/reunions, after two Covid cancellations in 2021, with a gathering at Grosse Savanne Lodge in southwest Louisiana. It was our 12th reunion, and the fourth held at Grosse Savanne, which has turned out to be the perfect setting for great fishing, awesome dining, and tall tales retold.

The 18 attendees originally slated to attend whittled to 13, nonetheless a fine turnout from all over the country.

This group picture shows us in our matching reunion attire. Left to right in the front row are Flack Logan, Steve Hoy, Bill Bradford, and Zimm Zimmerman. Standing are Bob Maier, Mike Krause, Steve Leisge, Harry Hirsch, Bill Palafox, Keith Reynolds, Mike Rubel, Dick Ortwein, and Mike Bonsignore.

We arrived in late March shortly before a large weather front swept across the country, and most fishing on the first day was performed in blustery conditions in the marshes, but many boats reeled in their limits and released many more. The second day began under a tornado watch, but the sailors brave in battle fair wanted some Bass, so with only low berms and grasses for protection, the group again caught and released very nice numbers before ducking for cover in the lodge as the front passed.

Corbin McNeill at Lindgren Reception

’63: The 12th reunion of 23rd Company classmates JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 71

63/64 CLASS NEWS Prior to the reunion, the theme was set as “Don’t let the Old Man In,” referring to a Toby Keith song in a Clint Eastwood movie, and folks were asked to submit prose reflecting the theme. The submissions were run through an editing machine that rejected the more ribald text and combined the rest to produce an “Ode to Twenty-Three” that was read during the final evening’s festivities.

Our company reunions have become a strong tradition and much anticipated event in the 23rd. Planning for Number 13 is already underway.

Bob sent a copy of the completed “Ode.” It is too long to include here, but I’ll share the first and last verses as a sample for you. The first verse: “We came from places far and wide/And met one steamy hot July/We formed the lasting legacy/The class of Nineteen Sixty-Three” The last verse: “Now our numbers less than then/ We still gather once again/Because the men of Twenty-Three/Won’t let the old man in you see” The other verses range from the laundry smokestack to service in Vietnam and elsewhere over the years. Well done, gentlemen!

Seeking to have his Naval Academy class ring resized, Jerry Huss contacted me in January. I referred him to the Alumni Association staff member who handles such things.

He, in turn, put Jerry in touch with a recommended class ring manufacturer. Jerry’s ring has now been resized and he wrote to share his experience in case it might be useful to others.

M My class ring arrived back from Herff Jones on May 5th, and I am very pleased with the result and the services they provided.

When I started this process, I had the choice of going with a local jeweler or handing the job over to a known Naval Academy ring manufacturer. I checked with a few local jewelers, but I was not comfortable with using any of them, so I reached out to you. I knew from my own research that our ring manufacturer, Dieges and Clust, was sold to Herff Jones in 1980. Your source at the USNA Alumni Association provided the name of Robert Vaz, an Account Manager at Herff Jones. Bob got back to me within a day of my contacting him and provided all the information and forms I needed. One of the items he sent to me, demonstrating the fact that Herff Jones had received all the documentation (and most likely all the manufacturing hardware) from Dieges and Clust, was my original class ring order form dated February 7, 1961. I had forgotten that we ordered our rings way back in Youngster Year.

72 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Once I had made the decision to mail my ring to Herff Jones, I needed to get it insured through USAA. To do that, I needed to obtain an accurate and up to date appraisal. I took my ring to a well-known jeweler in Los Altos, CA, who came back with a total retail replacement value of $4,638 — not bad for my $185 investment back in 1961.

I mailed my ring to Herff Jones and paid them $134 to resize it. It took them about a month to get it into their schedule. I don’t know how they do the work, but it fits well and looks great. The original detail remains, and there is no evidence that my ring has been resized.

Our late classmate Mike Cronin was a prisoner of war in North Vietnam from January 1967 until March 1973. We have obtained a lengthy transcript of an interview with Mike about his experiences before and during his captivity. It is a detailed and frank recounting of the torture and other extreme hardships he and other prisoners endured at the hands of the North Vietnamese. It has been added to the Traditions /Lest We Forget section of our web site. I encourage you to read it there.

There is one other account I want to share with you, something quite unlike the interview of Mike Cronin. This is an unusual story of an uncertain Midshipman who was recognized and encouraged by his Battalion Officer.

“Twisdale: Conversations with the Colonel” by George Grider is an engaging remembrance of his Plebe Year struggles and an unexpected relationship with LtCol Robert Twisdale, USMC ’43, the Third Battalion Officer. It is posted in the Pride & Tradition: Midshipman Memories section of our web site.

There is room for some extra photos this month, so here are three images from our past Shipmate columns. The first and most recent was published in 2012. It shows retired Marines Daryl Rabert, Walt Breede, and Jim Lloyd in coordinated attire at the Ring Dance for the Class of 2013, our Link in the Chain class.

image are Ninth Company members Tom Hall, Sonny Glassner, Phillip Marsden, George Leever, and Joe Waterfill. The other picture shows Fourth Companymates Mike Harman, Jim Koehn, Tom Haney, and Sonny Langley.

Ninth Companymates

Fourth Companymates

We’ll close this month with a challenge. Jim Koehn saw mention of great-grandchildren in a previous column and thinks that he and Judy may be leading in the number of ’63 descendants. He says they currently have seven grandchildren (They lost a granddaughter in 2010.) plus six great-grandchildren and three more due in the next few months. Can any of us equal that?

We need your support to keep this column lively and interesting. Pictures and news reports, however brief, are always welcome.

Please take a moment to send me an email about what you’ve been up to lately.

QUALITY— ’63

’64

Life Membership: 65% Donor Participation: 9.85% 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 Marines at the Ring Dance

The next two photos were published in the May 2010 issue. No date was given but they appear to be from our 30th reunion. In the first

Website: www.usna64.org

We open this month with an interesting print screen capture of the June-July 1964 Shipmate issue from USNAA Archives wherein the Great 64 made its first appearance.

64/64 CLASS NEWS

Shipmate Column #1

The first observation is like a dog walking on its hind legs, it’s not important it was done well but that it was done at all! The second observation brings into sharp focus the huge volume of magnificent water that has flowed over our dam in the intervening decades.

20th Company Rep Chuck Heath, who along with Bob Schick, keeps his company mates scuttlebutt-current, passed on the following rare short note from Frank Davis: “Cordial greetings to ’64 company- mates.

Jizeth and I regularly contemplate moving back to Brazil; but we are still in Tampa, where we have lived for the past twenty years.”

“Chuck and I have exchanged notes from time to time about the many different paths all of us have taken. My path has included living in nine different foreign countries, four of them after graduation, Uruguay, Brazil, Canada and China. All the best to all of you and yours.

See you at the 60th!”

Never known for excessive verbosity, a glance at Frank’s bio in the 40th Reunion Yearbook reveals he attended High School in Havana. He and his Brazilian born wife have three children, one of whom, Patrick Davis ’03, was an SH-60 jock at the time of the Yearbook’s publication.

Tony Taylor sent in the following SITREP from the West Coast: “Last summer Wayne Arny was in town for the change of command/retirement of his son, Matt Arny ’93, the outgoing skipper of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. What better opportunity than to call a few local ’64 classmates (+ one out of ’65) for lunch at Arnie’s in Mukilteo, WA.” “Even after two hours of sitting around the table savoring local seafood, there was not enough time to tell, much less finish, all the sea stories as one would segue into another.

Did they solve all of the world’s problems? No way… much less all of the Navy’s problems.”

“As the trite saying goes, ‘a good time was had by all’ despite being interrupted at one point by a tall sixty-ish ‘lady’ who meandered over to our table with what was obviously her third martini in hand and wanted to know ‘what are all you bad boys were doing?’ The table went silent other than Wayne finally volunteering that we were all classmates from the Naval Academy. Now she was really impressed and it took one of her girlfriends to finally peel her away from all of these bad boys!

Received a few more responses regarding the “Pete Taylor Mystery” from last summer: From Alex Krekich “Just finished reading the recent Shipmate edition where you raised the ‘Who was/is Pete Taylor?’ Question. Well my friend, “Pete” is the nick-name, whose real name, as listed in our yearbook, is John Mallory Taylor IV. And YES, He was one hell of a lacrosse player. He gave up on winging a sonic speed lacrosse ball to driving a Corvette. Will likely see Pete at the next local ‘64 luncheon.”

’64: Counter clockwise starting with Paul Bloch ’65, Ron Krell, Ray Frey, Phil Grasser, Tony, Wayne, & Winston Peterson

From Doug Peterson “In your last Shipmate column you asked the question “Does anyone recall Pete Taylor?”

I did not know Pete personally, but Bernie Fipp, a squadron mate of mine in VA-34, mentions Pete in his book ‘Triple Sticks: A Story of A Few Young Men In The ’60s’ (available on Amazon).”

“Pete, Bernie, and Dave Sjuggerud shared an apartment at the Village Wood in Jacksonville while they were going through the RAGs at Cecil Field. Bernie went through A-4s in VA-44. I’m not sure which RAG Pete and Dave went through; VA-44 or VF-174, the F-8 RAG. I’m sure there are other classmates who can add more than I can regarding Pete’s whereabouts after he left the Cecil Field RAG.” Speaking of the Taylor surname which dominates this column, whenever Shipmate column material has been sparse or non-existent, your humble correspondent relies on Tony Taylor who graciously allows us to purloin material from his many 5th Company Gouge and Sea Stories writings. This month being one those empty cupboard occasions, we impose on Tony once again, this time with one of his personal sea stories: When I first read Admiral McRaven’s book, “Make Your Bed”, I recognized in the man not only a true leader but also a man who could spin a great tale, stories that we sailors refer to from days of old as “sea stories.” If you are not familiar with his book, it was an address he gave to the graduating class of Texas at Austin in 2014. In his presentation he outlined ten lessons that he learned from his Navy SEAL training.

The book takes its title from the first lesson: “If you want to change the world … start off by making your bed.” Each lesson is a sea story into itself. In fact in the Taylor household if I walk into our bedroom and I see Gitta making our bed, I often will say “why are you doing that now,” and she will reply with “the admiral made me do it.” Not only that, but when our grandsons graduated from high school a year ago I gave each of them a copy of the book (I’m still not sure if either of them ever read it).

The book received such a great following that last year Admiral McRaven wrote a second book, “Sea Stories: My Life in Special Operations”. This book reminded me of the stories my dad would tell that would begin during his years at the Naval Academy (Class of ’27) and followed by stories about his reporting to the Wyoming, his first ship, and later to the Dallas before attending Submarine School in New London in 1930.

In 1931 he and my mother boarded the Steamship President Harrison in San Francisco JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 73

64/65 CLASS NEWS sailing to Shanghai, China, and then “by whatever means available” according to his orders, to proceed to Tsingtao (now Qingdao), China where he reported to his first sub, the S-35.

While in China he would be picked up every morning by his assigned rickshaw driver who would pull him on two wheels to the sub piers. One day my mother beckoned the rickshaw driver to take her shopping, but the coolie became very upset while trying to tell her that “lady with no man cannot ride in rickshaw.” Later when my dad was transferred to the S-34 they left China for the Philippines where LTJG Taylor was assigned lovely quarters with mahogany floors that would be polished every morning by their “houseboy” who would skate around the floors on coconut shells.

And so the stories continued until he retired after 38 years of service that included command of the Haddock and three highly successful war patrols. I still have his personal logs that included repeated request for a washing machine on board the sub (never happed while he was on board). During the last few months of the war he was on the staff of ADM “Bull” Halsey ’04 aboard Missouri when it was hit by a Kamikaze plane, and then as an official member of the Surrender Ceremony for the surrender of Japan ending WWII 75 years ago this September 2nd.

After the ceremony Halsey assigned him to immediately go ashore and locate the POW camp where all of the American submariners were being held. One of the prisoners freed that day was a classmate from the Academy; dad escorted his good friend home to his family in the States.

“Top Gun Maverick” was released the weekend this column was filed. Given the two, sometimes three, months between column submittal and publication, it’s a fair assumption anyone with an ounce of NAVAIR genes has already seen the movie at least once. In this correspondent’s humble opinion, it’s likely the best movie ever viewed!

While much of the Navy lore was created or amplified for dramatic effect, (for example, an impossible-to-imagine USNA reference) enough remains for any sailor to appreciate the accuracy effect is guaranteed to bring up vivid memories of personal experiences. The storyline ingeniously melds events in the original “Top Gun” of the 1980’s with modern day drama.

Independent of one’s Navy background, the film is well worth seeing – especially on a large screen – simply for the amazing flying scenes.

Guys, we cannot continue relying on Tony’s good graces to fill our column! Please take a

74 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

minute and drop a line letting your classmates know your current status or any other topic you’d like to share.

Fair winds and a quartering sea, classmates

’65

Life Membership: 64% Donor Participation: 14.01% Pres: CAPT Jim Minderlein, USN (Ret.) 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

Drat, hate this part! Losses since the last column: Dick Krom, Jay Cheney, and Ron Bishop.

From Jim Minderlein, 14 Apr It is my sad duty to inform you of the death of our classmate, Richard William Krom. I just received the notice this morning and his obit should be in the Last Call section. Dick graduated from the 32nd Company and had a very distinguished career in the Submarine Force.

As you can see from his Last Call entry, his second job after retiring from the Navy was very unique and highly commendable. Dick founded Malta, Inc. to help those who are homeless in SE, CT. He served as its President for 20 years - a noble cause. I recall that several years ago I gave Dick and his family a tour of the Naval Academy. I think one of his grand children may have been interested in attending the academy. Dick is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pamela, three children and 10 grandchildren. Sadly, Jim [Check out Last Call for more details on Dick’s life] From Jim Minderlein and Bill Zuna, 23 Apr Classmates, I regret to inform you of the death of our classmate, James “Jay” Clowser Cheney. I just received the note below from Bill Zuna. Jay graduated from the 6th Company and had a distinguished Navy career in the Supply Corps followed by a successful business career. He was a track star at USNA and culminated his sports career at Navy with a final victory over Army our senior year. He was a good friend and very loyal supporter of our class efforts. Sadly, Jim… and from Bill Zuna: Received a phone call this morning from a dear friend, Leslie Cheney, to tell me that Jay

died on Wednesday, 20 Apr after struggling with COPD. As you may recall, Jay was my roommate during Second and First Class years. Jay’s to be inurned and then to rest at the Academy columbarium, but arrangements have yet to be made, likely sometime in the summer. I’m sure Leslie would appreciate calls from classmates. Leslie’s cell is 703-6264377. [Check out Last Call for more details on Jay’s life] From Jim Roorbach, 11 Apr Dear Friends: My dear wife, Jo, passed away this morning at 8:30 am. Our daughter, Teri, and I were with her, holding her hands, telling her we loved her. It was very peaceful and we were honored to be there. Our son Jay is flying in today and our daughter Sarah will be here tomorrow. I plan on a simple service at the house sometime in July. Thank you for your support and prayers. Jim From Bob Finley, 15 Apr Just got word from a neighbor of Ron Bishop’s that Ron suffered a stroke yesterday.

He is now at the Stroke Hospital in Norfolk.

According to Ron’s neighbor, Ron underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain. He can hear and understand but cannot speak as of yet. He has regained some movement on his right side. His doctors anticipate he will continue to show improvement. In the meantime, let’s all keep Ron in our prayers and thoughts.

And if you wish, you can send Ron’s wife, Page, cards at home which will give her time to read and enjoy them with a little relaxation.

So here is Ron and Page’s address: Ronald and Page Bishop, 3908 Regal Ct., Virginia Beach, VA 23452. [An update from Bob Finley in mid-May indicated no significant improvement with Ron still hospitalized and unable to receive visitors.]

From Jim Minderlein (with input from Bob Finley and John Allen), 22 May It is my sad duty to inform you of the death of our classmate, Ronald Floyd Bishop. I just received the notification below from John Allen, an 11th Company mate of Ron’s. Ron is the 9th member of 22 graduates to pass from that company. As you can see from John’s note, Ron continued to lead after his naval career by providing noteworthy service to our class. I seem to remember that Ron donated his ship’s nameboard as part of the memorabilia we collected for our Goat statue at the stadium. It is buried under the goat in the granite base. Also, despite the recent ordeal they were going through, Ron’s wife, Page, ensured that Ron’s name made the list of participants for the Great Academy Challenge. Please keep her in your prayers during this difficult time for her. I will keep you informed of any arrangements made for Ron’s service. Jim

65/65 CLASS NEWS … and from John Allen and Bob Finley who were closely tracking Ron’s condition since his stroke …

With heavy heart I report to you the loss of our classmate Ron (Ronald F.) Bishop. In a brief phone call this morning his wife, Page, informed me that Ron passed peacefully at home with family yesterday afternoon. He suffered a stroke two weeks ago, received medical attention in two Tidewater-area hospitals and was released to home hospice care midweek. Ron was a catalyst for bi-annual reunions of the Eleventh/Twelfth companies (former Eighth Company) around the country over the past decade and, more recently, the host of monthly Eleventh Company Zoom sessions. If you wish, you can send Ron’s wife, Page, cards at home at heer address: Page Bishop, 3908 Regal Ct., Virginia Beach, VA 23452.

On to happier news.

Joe Luckard checked in on 04 Mar, reporting that his wife and he were staying in Oahu at the Hilton Hawaiian Village and hoping to get together with Judy and me for drinks and/or dinner. They were in Hawaii celebrating Joe’s birthday on 05 Mar. Alas, I had to tell him that Judy and I had departed Hawaii temporarily on 24 Feb for our second home in Independence, MO. Hope to catch the Luckards next time.

In March, Ed McCann and Bob Wahlfield both chipped in with long remembrances of Dick Genet who passed away earlier this year.

If you didn’t see this on our eForum, please contact Ed at edwmccann@gmail.com and Bob at whalepacific@yahoo.com and they’ll share them with you. Wish I had room for both long stories here, but I don’t. Bob shared a photo from years ago of a whole bunch of ’65ers at a boat marina in San Diego that included Dick and that’s below.

From Steve McDonald, 05 Apr Three c’mates gathering – photo taken at an Italian Restaurant in Branford, Florida on 05 Apr. In the pic: Steve McDonald, Bill Robertson, and Fred Koberlein.

From Ted Nanz, 17 Apr Many families have traditions for special occasions including Christmas, Easter, and other occasions. Our family tradition for Easter is going to Arlington National Cemetery for the 0630 Easter Sunrise service followed by breakfast overlooking the White House and Lafayette Park. Each year we take a family photo which goes in an album showcasing the year-to-year growth of the children. This morning following breakfast we walked across the street to the historic St. John’s Church and were pleasantly surprised to be greeted by Head Usher Jim Czerwonky (USNA’62), brother of our c’mate Art Czerwonky.

—Ted Nanz

From Pete Lumianski, 28 Apr

My friend, Pete, checked in with a great report and raft of photos on all his flourishing progeny in the Phoenix area, all enjoying Springtime weather there. Way too long to detail and display all the gouge on and pics of the kiddos/grandkiddos ,but if you didn’t see this on our eForum, please contact Pete at prom65@cox.net and he’ll forward the email to you. He has some especially handsome and accomplished teenaged grandkids now – Mia, Reese, Riley, Jack, Peter, Ellie and more. In Pete’s words, “It’s exceptionally hard to believe I had anything to do with creating all this wondrous life – I take credit for butt size and high foreheads, but, beyond that, I don’t think any of these kids received useful genetic passdowns from me.” Photo of the Lumi clan follows.

Lumianski Clan

From Bob Finley, 04 May Thought I would send out just a short recap of our Egg Bistro lunch on Tuesday. We had the largest gathering since Covid 19 struck.

A total of eight of us gathered at 12:30 and we didn’t leave until after 2 PM. Those able to attend were: Bob Beauchamp, Mike Artherholt, Mike Hester, Dick Williams, Steve Seufer, Gordon Clark, and Ray Thomas. Bob From Phil Ferrara, 05 May Twenty ’65ers gathered for the May lunch at McGarvey’s Saloon. Larry and Pat Eggert have moved to Delaware, and Larry joined us for lunch this month. It is great to have him back in the area and to be part of the gang.

Also there were Sonny Harrison, Frank Peterson, Art Wittig, Rich Harden (140 miles from home), Andy Prince, Phil Ferrara, Skip Orr, Conrad Best (175 miles from home), Ted Nanz, Jim Stark, Sam Dutrow, Charlie Morrison, Sted Garber, Skip Shealy, Jack Devine, Jim Minderlein, Bob Sullivan, John Collins and Bob Andretta. We auctioned two items to provide an additional tip for the McGarvey’s waiter staff. One was a McGarvey Saloon print donated by Bob Sullivan that is being offered to the owners and staff with the amount placed in the wait staff tip jar. The other was a set of USNA blazer buttons donated by Jo MacMichael from among Skip’s souvenirs.

’65: SD Yacht Club JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 75

65/66 CLASS NEWS There were also five ’grab-gift bags’ won in a lottery by Ted, Sam, Charlie, Rich, and finally Bob Andretta who therefore drove home with a lot of loot.

Jim Minderlein on 09 May posted on our eForum the issues discussed at the Class of 1965 Executive Committee meeting held on 22 April in Ricketts Hall. If you didn’t see this on our eForum, please contact Jim at jimm65@verizon.net and he’ll email you the news. A few items: our 60th reunion is scheduled for 22 to 26 October 2025; the Class of 1965 Navy Legends Exhibit project raised $272K over a goal of $250K, with the additional funds paying for the bust of Roger Staubach that sits next to his Heisman Trophy in the Terwilliger Center; the class project for the Pat Donnelly Scholarship raised $125K, of which over $100K was donated by our class alone; and the new Alumni Center Plank Owner project has raised $402,835 and our class has 28 Plankowners. They are Leon Okurowski, Jack Kohl, Ted Krauss, Doyle Borchers, Neal Jenkins, Don Brown, John Odom, Roger Staubach, Sted Garber, Ed Linz, Denny McComb, Steve Fabry, Boyd Knowles, Ron Bancroft, Jim Taylor, Denny Neutze, Joe Foy, Ed Rumble, Phil Ferrara, Bill Lawless, Mike Coyle, Jim Huff, Carter Refo, Jim Minderlein, mike Goodwin, Pete Seibert, Mike Epprecht and Jim O’Hanlon.

Thazzit guys! Aloha, Dave

and 4 widows who attended. It was kicked off at the Hilton hotel’s complimentary wine and bar gathering and followed by an intimate dinner for everyone at the City Fish Market restaurant close by. The restaurant did not disappoint. Wonderful food and great ambiance which sparked good fellowship. The following evening was the highlight of the ComeAround.

A truly memorable dinner party hosted by Karen and Keith Melton at their breathtaking home, conveniently located close to the Hilton.

The food was visually stunning, bountiful, and delicious. Keith was kind enough to conduct tours which were both educational and entertaining. The theme was “Hawaiian Casual” and it was carried out to the fullest. All who attended are indebted to Keith and Karen for their kindness and hospitality. Several pictures were taken. Some are provided below, but all are available on the Class web site, usna66.org.

Thanks again to Karen and Keith for stepping up to host and get the FL ComeAround back on track.

’66

Life Membership: 66% Donor Participation: 8.00%

’66: ATTENDEES ENJOYING THE BUFFET

Pres: Gen Carlton W. Fulford, USMC (Ret.) Sec’y: CDR Mike Baird, USN (Ret.) 10439 Rivington Ct., Lone Tree, CO 80124 e: mike.baird@1966.usna.com West Coast Sec’y: Robert G. Johnson Jr., Esq. 41391 Kalmia St., Ste. 210 , Murrieta, CA 92562 Website: www.usna66.org

The 55 + 1 Reunion is just around the corner.

I hope everyone who has signed up is excited.

Leah and I are. The mailbox is fuller this time, so there’s a good deal to report. I did want to bring up one small point before that. Scott Redd reminded me that June 27 was our 60th anniversary for swearing in. Egad, the time flies.

The 2022 Florida ComeAround was a very successful event. Here’s the writeup from Bob Zvacek.

M The spring Florida ComeAround held on 5 and 6 April in Bocca Raton, FL was a delightful and memorable experience for the 22 Classmates, 13 spouses, 2 significant others ’66: 2022 FL COMEAROUND ATTENDEES 76 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

KAREN AND KEITH MELTON – FL COMEAROUND HOSTS

Rufe Taylor provided the following item and photo.

M I had lunch recently with Steve Berg just prior to his fishing trip to Pyramid Lake, NV. He is a Master Naturalist in the state of Idaho and knows how to catch a fish or two. He sent me this great photo that I thought I’d share it with everyone. As they say, “the early bird catches the worm” and in this case Steve was a very early riser and caught this 12 lb. plus gorgeous Lahontan cutthroat trout on one of

66/67 CLASS NEWS his hand tied flies. All well here, and Joan and I look forward to our class reunion this September. Cheers, Rufe.

STEVE BERG WITH CATCH

Thanks Rufe. Great job.

George Moore checked in to update us on his dealings with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). George made a presentation in April 2022 at the first International Law Conference at the IAEA in Vienna. This was the first post-Covid outing. Strangely, the IAEA has been in business for almost 60 years, but this was their first conference on the subject of international law. He also made two presentations at the IAEA’s meeting of Points of Contact for their Incidents and Trafficking Database (ITDB). Thanks, George.

Continued success to you. I might also note that George is a consistent contributor to the Class Zoom meetings.

For the get together, we planned an itinerary that included a history tour of the city of Charlotte and a visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame Museum where we all competed on the race car simulators. Charlie “raced” away with the fastest lap time of a smoking 31.077 seconds.

For our dinners, we chose two of the “Uptown” restaurants known for their local southern cuisine. It was great food served with Southern charm.

The main reason for the reunion was to catch up with each other’s lives. So, for sea storytelling, we scheduled plenty of social time in the Marriott M Club Room. Our wives, some of whom have known each other since our dating days at USNA, made sure there was a bit of veracity in our memories and had their own time reminiscing. Two had their own “sea stories” that dated back to their USNA “drag” days.

All hands reported they had weathered the challenges presented by COVID and are again resuming travel to visit family, cruise the oceans and rivers and see more of the USA. We all want to have a repeat in 2023, but until then, we plan to see one another again in Annapolis during the 55th Plus 1 reunion.

BEAT ARMY! Thanks, Jim. Great update.

I’m sad to report the death of Maureen Jackson, wife of Don Jackson. Maureen died on 20 May 2020 after a long, courageous battle with lung cancer. Services for Maureen Jackson were held on Monday, 25 July at 1030 at the US Naval Academy Chapel, followed by inurnment at the USNA Columbarium and a reception at the Naval Academy Club. In addition, the family held a four-day memorial at Don’s home in Cape St. Claire, outside of Annapolis, MD to give friends and family time to share memories and toast Maureen. A tent, beverages, and snacks were provided. I know you join me in extending the prayers and condolences of the Class to Don and his children, Kristina and Doug, and their families.

Finally, here’s to a successful reunion. Leah and I are looking forward to seeing everyone, and though I really love being in Colorado, it will be nice to see Annapolis again. I do dread the humidity that will no doubt still be around for Labor Day weekend. Everyone attending should plan to pack summer attire.

Until September... All the best...Mike!!!

’67

Life Membership: 77% Donor Participation: 9.52% 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

CHARLIE, JOHN, DICK, AND JIM

Thanks, Jim. Great update.

We have another tough column for ’67.

Nancy Hebdon, wife of Fred Hebdon, was inurned on 12 May 2022 at the Naval Academy columbarium with primarily family in attendance. Dennis Rogers was inurned by his wife Judy on 5 May 2022. Dennis had passed away in December of 2016. In the photo with Judy are Jack Parry, Willie Williamson, Dave Church, ands me.

GEORGE MOORE AT THE IAEA CONFERENCE

Jim Strouse checked in with the following news and photos.

M A small group of us who were roommates during our four years has been staying in contact using Zoom since mid-2020. Late last year we decided to physically meet when the COVID threat subsided, and we chose Charlotte, NC as a central rendezvous place. So, on 13 May, Peggy and Charlie Pfeifer, Anne and John Reeb, Pola and Dick Sidney, and Celia and Jim Strouse met at the Marriott City Center hotel in downtown Charlotte for a long weekend. Roger Burnett and Pierce Johnson, also Zoom participants, were unfortunately unable to attend.

66: 20th COMPANY MINI REUNION

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 77

67/67 CLASS NEWS

Rogers inurnment

And we have lost six more Classmates since the last column: Bob Morehead, Denny Costello, Rick Davis, Leroy Farr, Jim Conn, and Mike Apple.

Bob Morehead passed away on 22 March 2022. He was born in Evergreen Park, IL, in 1945. After graduation from USNA he attended flight training, becoming an A-6 B/N and logging over 100 combat missions in Vietnam. He transferred to the Naval Reserve in 1978, eventually serving as CO NAF Misawa, Japan. After Navy retirement in 1993, Bob went into manufacturing in several management and executive positions. He retired in 2005.

He loved every sport, had a love of politics, but most of all, he loved spending time with his family. He was a member of Belin United Methodist Church of Murrells Inlet, SC. Bob is survived by Judy, his wife of 30 years; sons Todd (Beth) Morehead, Jim (Rinee) Elgin, and Jody Lavender; daughters Cathie (Jeff) Dabrowski, Jennifer Morehead, and JoAnn (Ryan) Richardson; 8 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Judy’s email address is Jhmorehead@gmail.com. A graveside funeral service with Military Honors was held on 25 March 2022, at First Baptist Church of Pine Ridge Cemetery, Hartsville, SC. Memorial gifts may be made in Bob’s honor to the Wounded Warrior Project (https://rb.gy/ 1bqkk2) or to a charity of one’s choosing.

We received word via Al Lawver that Denny Costello had died on 2 April 2022 from Parkinson’s. He and Joan had moved from California to Northern Virginia to be near their daughter. Al’s comment: “Sad news for 14th Company mates. Denny was a good guy and always upbeat and joking.”

Denny was born in 1945 in Franklin, MA. He was a graduate of USNA and of Harvard Business School. Following graduation from Harvard, Denny moved to Chicago, IL, where he met and married Joan, his wife of 45 years.

He is survived by Joan, daughter Caitlin Baker (Mark) and son Brian Costello, and grandchildren Kerrigan and Quinn Baker.

Denny’s happiest times were with his family, on the golf course, or at a Red Sox or Patriots 78 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

game. Denny enjoyed a 40-year career in pharmaceuticals and medical venture capital, which culminated in him co-founding Triathlon Medical Ventures in Cincinnati, OH. His commitment to fostering revolutionary advances in the life sciences is a legacy that his family hopes will live on in his name. They requests that memorial donations be made to the scientific research being done by Denny’s doctors at Johns Hopkins Medicine, Dr. Greg Pontone and Dr. Kelly Mills, to improve the treatment and care of dementia in people with Parkinson’s Disease. Donations can be made payable to “Johns Hopkins University” and mailed to “Fund for John’s Hopkins Medicine, 550 N. Broadway, Suite 912, Baltimore, MD 21205.” Donations can also be made online at https://rb.gy/bwiku2 by choosing “Parkinson’s Disease Research” on the online giving form.

A funeral mass was celebrated on 9 April 2022 in Franklin, MA. Joe Krol served as a pall bearer. Jules Selden was able to attend the visitation on 8 April.

The Annapolis contingent of ’67 was saddened by the death of Rick Davis on 11 April 2022. Rick was a stalwart at every function, lending a hand wherever he could.

He battled an odd array of medical issues in the last month or so of his life but kept strong and never lost his gregarious personality or his sense of humor. Those that knew him also know that he maintained his quick wit and succeeded in having the hospital and rehab staff in stitches with his jokes and sarcasm.

“Don’t Give Up the Ship!” He is survived by his children Scott (Susanna Cunningham) and Karin Thompson (Mark) and 4 grandchildren.

Rick retired from the Navy in Dec of 1988.

While on active duty he deployed on three sea tours, two to the Gulf of Tonkin during the Vietnam War. His colorful career, the source of countless sea stories, ranged from instructing gunfire support to five years joint service with the Army in Korea. Later he was a USO liaison officer where he coordinated tour dates with NFL cheerleaders and toured with bands like Cheap Trick and Crosby, Stills, and Nash across Europe. He toured with both the Dallas Cowboys and LA Rams cheerleaders, and even appeared on a television episode of “Real People” in November 1982 while touring with the Cowboys cheerleaders. He briefly worked for Ford in their F-150 engineering division and was also a talent agent evaluating and signing musical acts. He retired from his last gig with the Montgomery County (MD) Police Department in 2010, where for 9 years he had been the County’s Juvenile Diversion Coordinator.

In 2012 he moved to Annapolis. He will be inurned at the USNA Columbarium at a later date. We really miss him.

Leroy Farr died on 8 April 2022 following complications from major surgery and treatment for cancer. He was born in 1945 in Syracuse, KS. After graduation from USNA, he attended North Carolina State University, earning a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, then moved on to Pensacola where he met Barbara. After designation as a Naval Aviator he deployed twice as an A-7 pilot on JOHN F, KENNEDY (CV-67). This was followed

by Air Force Test Pilot School, a Test & Evaluation shore tour, return to sea duty and command of VA-37. His final sea tour was as Air Boss back on JFK where he’d started out. After RDT&E tours, Leroy retired in 1997 and worked for 5 years in the private sector. In retirement he dedicated his time to dental mission trips with the Honduras Agape Foundation and at St John’s United Methodist Church building wheelchair ramps in his community. Leroy and Barbara also traveled the world with friends and family. He is survived by Barbara; his children, Patricia Schnur, Sherry Farr-Mus (Andy), and Andrew Farr (Patrick); and 5 grandchildren..

A service to celebrate Leroy’s life was held on 23 April 23 in Aiken, SC. Donations in Leroy’s memory may be made by check to the Honduras Agape Foundation, P.O. Box 6315, Aiken, SC 29804, or to the St John’s UMC Jack Meeks Memorial Ramp Ministry at stjaiken.org/give (denote Leroy Farr in memo).

We first heard of the passing of Jim Conn from Ric Strickland. Jim died of a sudden heart attack on 10 May 2022. He was born in 1945 and grew up in St. Louis Park, MN. After graduation from USNA and flight school, Jim flew the P-3 Orion. He had a tour in Vietnam.

After 12 years active duty, he became a reservist for 13 years, commanding two squadrons.

He finally retired from Lockheed Martin having worked to enhance the P-3. Always active in church, in retirement Jim expanded his volunteering by starting an affiliate of the nonprofit Mobility Worldwide, also chairing their national board. He was a man of service to his country, community and friends. He is survived

by Dawn, his wife of almost 55 years; his two daughters, Laura (Reed) Herman and Amy (Bruce) Bloom; 4 grandchildren and 2 greatgrandchildren. Contributions in his memory be made to Mobility Worldwide–MN–Twin Cities, 10670 Lancaster Ln N, Maple Grove, MN 55369 (https://rb.gy/upfv9d) or to Robbinsdale Parkway UCC, 4200 Lake Road, Robbinsdale, MN 55422.

Immediately after hearing of Jim’s death, we heard from Tom Decker that Mike Apple had also died of a heart attack on the same day as Jim, 10 May 2022. They were both from 18th Company. As I write in late May, there is no detailed information available.

67/68 CLASS NEWS Now…before you read on…take a deep breath and go hug somebody you love.

Here are some tidbits from Dave Church for those of you who wonder how the money you’ve contributed to the Foundation stacks up: *Since graduation, the Class of 1967 has donated over $29.5M to various causes/ campaigns/facilities around the Yard. This places ‘67 in 5th place in total giving of all classes that have graduated in the past 88 years and in 2nd place in the decade of the ‘60s. *We have raised gifts and pledges of $1,259,478 toward the Alumni Center [this includes one recent major gift, or most likely even more depending on this year’s Challenge total]. *To date: ’67 has 69 Alumni Center Plank Owners (fully paid or pledged) which is 17% of all Plank Owners to date (We’re #1!) *30% of ’67 Classmates made donations during 2021-2022 (among the top classes). *There are only a few months left for the Plank Owner program part of our “New Alumni Center Support” project. Go to www.usna.com/give. Scroll down a bit to ”Other Donation Options.” Select “Support My Class Project” and you’re on your way. *Football season is just around the corner.

After our 55th Reunion Tailgate (in Class Ring Northeast on September 3rd) the traditional ‘67 Village will again be just outside Gate D. Plan on being at as many games as you can!

This from Dick Couch: M This is a shameless plea for my classmates to buy my next and last book. All is well with Julia and me — still living the dream in Sun Valley with and an occasional consulting gig with SOCOM. Unlike many of our classmates, my health is good.

This novel, book number 23 by my last count, may or may not be my last published work. If it is, it’s a good one on which to close out my writing career. This is a story that has been with me since my SEAL brothers took out Osama bin Laden in May of 2011. Did it really go down as we have been led to believe? Or was there more to the story. Since I’ve never been totally satisfied with the conventional account, my Act of Justice poses critical a revisit to the accepted scenario.

You can find this alternative history at: https://rb.gy/b0x4ji Have to shut it down for now. Next time look for photos from Rick Poole, how ‘Nita and Jack Parry had lunch with Bart Creed’s daughter, and Rob Skrotsky’s account of the induction of Mike Smith into the North Carolina Aviation Museum.

In the meantime, to leave you with a smile, here’s proud granddad Tim Ferguson and grandson George.

Tim and 7 mo George!

display that was created by Wanda’s daughter, Megan, depicting all who perished. This news led to Gary Storm to writing Jane, Carl, Wanda, and Megan to express his deep appreciation on behalf of all members of our class for continuing to honor those who died in the crash.

“Mac and his fellow aircrewmen were lost to us more than 50 years ago,” Gary said, “but they live on in the hearts of their family members and all who knew them. You have played a critical role in this regard—you remember.” He noted how their commitment has provided peace and comfort to family members and commended Megan for her work creating the new photographic display.

Gary’s letter also described Mac’s prior enlisted service, his years at the Academy, and his promising career following graduation.

That’s it...Goodnight!...Jim

’68

Life Membership: 62% Donor Participation: 6.06% 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

The full-length version of this column was distributed by e-mail class wide and is posted on our Class website.

We lost the 27th Company’s Henry “Mac” McGreevey 3 August 1970 when his VP-17 P-3B Orion crashed shortly after take-off from Nellis AFB, NV, during extremely violent weather. All 10 aircrewmen and passengers were killed. Since 2005, the citizens of the nearby mining town of Searchlight and staff at the Searchlight Community Museum have honored their memory by erecting a monument to them, maintaining a display in the museum, and hosting periodic reunions of the families of the deceased airmen.

The Museum’s historian Jane Overy and her husband, Carl, played important roles in creating the memorial to the airmen in 2005.

Wanda Ranger, the daughter of the P-3Bs flight engineer, assisted in that effort. She also served as a social secretary to identify the airmen’s family members, to communicate news to them, and to assist them during their gatherings at Searchlight.

Joe Sikes was a squadron mate of Mac’s in VP-17. Earlier this year, he learned of a new photographic addition to the museum’s

Rest in peace, Mac. We remember.

Congratulations Tom Hayes! This spring he was named the vice president of the Seawolf Association, the fraternal organization created in 1987 to perpetuate the history of the Navy’s elite Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three during the Vietnam War and to strengthen the squadron members’ friendships. More than 100 Naval Academy alumni served as Seawolves during the squadron’s five years of commissioned service—including 25 members of our Class.

Tom served in HA(L)-3 for a year in 19691970 as one of the squadron’s first Sea Lord pilots at Binh Thuy (where he moonlighted with the Army’s 82nd Medical “Dustoff” Company) and then for eight months flying UH-1B/C Huey gunships on Detachment 4. Of note, like Lee Richardson, Tom’s family boasts three generations of naval aviators—validating the saying that the apple doesn’t fall far from JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 79

67/67 CLASS NEWS

USNA

CLASS of 1967

55th Reunion SEPTEMBER 1-5, 2022 Headquarters Hotel: The Doubletree Hotel • 210 Holiday Ct., Annapolis, MD 21401

Please update your contact information.

Log In to: www.usna.com and Sign in to complete your profile or call a Membership Coordinator at: (410) 295-4000 to update your information over the phone.

For all registration information and questions: Email Dave Church at: churchdave1967@gmail.com or call: (410) 279-7513 80 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

68/68 CLASS NEWS the tree! Tom’s dad earned his Navy wings in 1944 and served until retirement in 1971.

Tom’s sons, Chris ’92 and Ryan, were also helicopter pilots and squadron COs during their distinguished careers. Tom wonders: How many other classmates share a similar family history as naval aviators?

As an Olmsted Scholar, John McKay and his wife, Margo, had the pleasure of attending the 11 May dedication of the Olmsted Corridor located on the main floor of the Nimitz Library.

The ceremony concluded the Olmsted Foundation’s centennial celebration of the 1922 graduations of Regimental Commander Midshipman Jerauld L. Olmsted at the U.S. Naval Academy and his younger brother, Cadet First Captain George H. Olmsted, at the U.S. Military Academy. The Foundation provided a $500,000 grant to the Naval Academy during the ceremony and dedicated a commemorative bronze plaque. The Foundation presented the same grant to the Military Academy at a similar ceremony at West Point 16 May. As John explained, “The Olmstead brothers are the only siblings who served as the highestranking midshipman and cadet officer at the two academies who also graduated in the same year. The regimental commander was the highest midshipman rank in 1922. Tragically, just a year after graduation and commissioning, Jerauld died of an unknown illness.” The Olmsted Foundation’s scholarship program was initiated in 1959 through the philanthropy of retired MG George Olmsted, USAR. John learned about the Scholar Program during our first-class year. “At the time of my selection as an Olmsted Scholar in 1972,” he recalled, “interested personnel from the three service academies needed to apply and receive a favorable endorsement from their respective dean’s office before graduating and commissioning. Prof Cabrillo-Vázquez of the Modern Language Department encouraged me to apply.

I was of mixed mind. I had just returned from First Class cruise in the waters off Vietnam; I was neither optimistic of purpose nor convinced the United States would prevail.

The prominent display in the Rotunda of alumni killed in action was a stark, daily reminder of the cost being borne. Upon graduation I’d be back in the maelstrom. In a moment of unguarded optimism, I submitted my name for consideration as an Olmsted Scholar.”

In 1972, after John fully recovered from a skull-shattering AK-47 wound during his combat tour in Vietnam and was found fit for full duty as a Marine infantry officer, he was selected as an Olmsted Scholar for 1973 and studied at the University of Madrid. “The decision to apply was serendipitous,” John said, “but being an Olmsted Scholar was

rewardingly fortuitous.” In General Olmsted’s words, “Fundamental to the initial purpose of creating the scholarship program is the conviction that the greatest leaders must be educated broadly.” Echoing that viewpoint, John concluded, “Unique in its inception, unmatched in its relevance, it is a program all high-achieving junior military officers should consider.”

Nimitz Library Olmsted Corridor dedication, from left: Olmsted Foundation President MG Bruce K. Scott, USA (Ret.); Olmsted Foundation Chairman of the Board ADM Kurt W Tidd ’78, USN (Ret.); and John and Margo McKay.

In April, Bill Sellers hosted his 29th company classmates at his home in North Carolina.

“My wife and I were blessed to have Bill Center with his wife, Karla, and Ed Solder with his wife, Peri, visit us. We had a delightful time visiting and catching up with each other. Bill and Karla came from Seattle, and Ed and Peri drove over from western North Carolina to our home in Greensboro, NC.” Bill said it seemed strange to see folks again after 54 years—and they look so old (said with a smiley emoji)!

He has hosted 29th Company Zoom meetings since the pandemic began. “We regularly meet every couple of months with about 10-15 joining the meeting. Even as the pandemic has diminished, we have still met—although the frequency is reduced. I am sure many other companies did the same to keep in touch.”

Danube. “The cruise was very enjoyable and very safe as Viking tested all passengers and crew for COVID every day. We finished in Regensburg, Germany, and took the Deutsche Bahn train to Munich where we spent a weekend exploring with Bev’s niece, Brittany (Young) Tuttle ’09 and her husband, Ryan ’05.

Springtime in Munich, from left: Gary and Bev Jensen with Brittany and Ryan Tuttle.

Also in April, Brittany’s dad Denny Young made to Washington state—just three weeks following his last neck surgery. “I visited Mary Ann Kooning (sister of Jim Yeakley ’71) in Portland,” Denny wrote. “We then drove up to Port Orchard to visit my kid sister Natalie (a retired Navy captain) and her friend Mike Gray—also a retired Navy captain. Then we all had a get-together with our classmate Wayne Nonoshita and his wife, Kathy, while checking out the gorgeous tulips in the Skagit Valley before heading home.” Denny noted he had not been in contact with other classmates earlier owing to continuing treatment for cancer but, thankfully, he said his immunotherapy treatment is going well. Aloha, Denny!

Gray, Natalie Young-Aranita, Mary Ann Kooning, Denny Young, Wayne and Kathy Nonoshita,

29th Company mini-reunion, from left: Bill Center, Bill Sellers, Ed Solder.

Not being dissuaded by the pandemic (nor the travel across 12 time zones), Bev and Gary Jensen flew from Honolulu to Budapest in April for an eight-day cruise on the

In closing, we lost John Sinclair from our ranks 2 April at his home in Bradford Fall, PA. A funeral mass was held a week later, with interment in the St. Alphonsus Cemetery in Wexford, PA. John had a distinguished Navy career of more than 30 years after enlisting and serving as an electrician’s mate before JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 81

68/69 CLASS NEWS attending NAPS and the Academy. A surface warfare officer and Vietnam veteran, after transferring to the Navy Reserve he commanded several surface ships and shore activities in Pennsylvania before retiring as a captain in 1998. Following Navy retirement he specialized in financial planning.

Jay Cohen roomed with John for four years.

“Johnny was a great roommate and my lifelong friend,” he said. “My wife, Nancy, and I treasure our time with him and his family at various events through the years. He was a loving father and parent, patriot, strong Navy and USNA supporter, successful businessman, and devoted parishioner at St. Alfonso’s Catholic Church.” Jay, joined 7th Company classmates Frank Simmons, Jack Rose, Ken Kolarcik, Shelby Guilbert for John’s funeral mass. “The church was full as Johnny had been so active supporting various church activities,” Jay said.

“As Johnny was carried from the church, there was a Navy honor guard, rifle salute and taps as it started to snow. We miss his smiling, positive, can-do attitude so much! Rest in peace.” Sincere condolences to John’s wife, Janet, and his family.

7th Company mates at John Sinclair’s funeral, from left: Jack Rose, Jay Cohen, Ken Kolarcik and Shelby Guilbert. Not pictured: Frank Simmons.

Take Care, Gordo

’69

Life Membership: 59% Donor Participation: 10.11% Pres: MAJ Steve Comiskey, USMCR (Ret.) e: swcomiskey@gmail.com Vice Pres: Pat Stroop 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; ron.gumbert@gartner.com Website: www.usna69.org

We’re well into another great summer Classmates !

A quick note about our 55th Hotel – yes we have reserved a block of rooms at the Westin Annapolis – BUT they are not accepting 82 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’69: 9th Co 2022 and 1969

personal reservations until 13 September 2023. So please mark your calendars for calling.

Joe Chopek wrote in to tell us a nice story about our Classmate Mike Minter. He helped to found the Reston Bible Church (Reston Virginia) in the early 1970’s and Joe lived there after he got out of the Marine Corps. Joe had literally “re-met” him one day when he was doing extra side work at the Reston Country Club, giving squash lessons and cleaning and polishing golf shoes for a small hourly wage and tips. One day Joe dropped his shoes off, only to see Mike behind the counter - and they reconnected. They have remained friends since 1965. Emerson and Terry Murray were also his Classmates at one point. So, after 48 years at Reston Bible Church Mike delivered his last sermon which can be found at https://www.restonbible.org/sermons/ a-blessed-life/. As Joey says, he really does “win the hearts and minds” without ever being obnoxious!!

Thanks for sharing with us Joe! Ed Timperlake provided an excellent synopsis of “Trustworthy AI”, a research topic presentation by Dr Jeannette Wing, at the ’69 sponsored 2022 Michelson Lecture. She is an Executive Vice President For Research at Columbia University.

M “Her talk posed a new research agenda, from a formal-methods perspective, to foster increased trust in AI systems. By so doing, Dr. Wing demonstrated both her brilliance and humility, in that she presented her research as essentially a very important open ended “work in progress.” In doing so, she recognized that the Midshipman present will continue building from her foundational mathematical work.

Dr. Wing framed the current challenge for the United States Navy inside the ever

advancing information revolution in order to fight and win any combat engagement. She underscored that “Computer science is not computer programming. Thinking like a computer scientist means more than being able to program a computer. It requires thinking at multiple levels of abstraction.”

The Michelson lectures are named in honor of Albert A. Michelson. The Class of 1969, USNA President Steve Comiskey reminded the audience that Albert A. Michelson, began as a Midshipman with USNA Class of 1873, then returned to the Academy as an instructor and became the first American to receive a 1907 Nobel Prize in Physics.

Taking the world as it is on defending America now and in the future, the 2022 Michelson Lecture personifies a mix of what makes the U.S. Navy the most advanced fighting force at sea in the world. It is an ability to combine cutting edge technologies with competent combat experience and leadership.

Dr. Wing’s talk brings into focus the most important question on the value and accuracy of information in a fast moving combat environment. Adding the power of AI must be filtered through a win or lose speed of light function of command and control which is simply stated: Is the information presented accurate, timely and useful?

The United States Naval Academy has had two back to back “College Presidents,” called Superintendents who were selected for their successfully flying many, many missions in the U.S. Navy offensive/defensive combat enterprise. While national rankings of colleges ebb and flow, in 2017 the U.S. Naval Academy was ranked the No. 1 public school among national liberal arts colleges, according to the annual U.S. News & World Report, Best Colleges.”

69/70 CLASS NEWS On Tuesday 3 May Norm Brown, Ed Bannat, Marty Costello, Todd Creekman, and Pat Stroop travelled up to 5-3 in Bancroft Hall to talk with the firsties and give each one of them one of our class coins. We spent 20-30 minutes shaking hands and telling sea stories and there were lots of smiles all around.

Welcome to the Fleet, 2022!!

That’s it for this issue. Enjoy a safe and happy summer and Let’s BEAT ARMY often!!

— Doc

’70

Life Membership: 62% Donor Participation: 3.61% Pres: CDR Edmund E. Moore, USN (Ret.) e: edmund.moore@gmail.com Sec’y: CDR Royal Connell, USN (Ret.) 7230 Meir Henry Rd., Pensacola, FL 32506 e: royal70@1970.usna.com Webmaster: Ed Moore e: edmund.moore@gmail.com Website: http://1970.usnaclasses.com

Greetings all, I’ve got lots of photos this month (even if I had to take some myself) and they take up room, so Iet’s get to it.

Sound the Last post: But first, I must announce the passing of my good friend Robert Jay Healy in May 11.

“Bob” was born in Newark, NJ and was the oldest of six brothers. He attended the University of Pennsylvania for one year before coming to USNA. Upon graduation he Married Linda and together they had two children, daughter Kathleen and son Robert, Jr. After finishing his service in the Navy, the family settled in Maryland in 1979. Bob had a passion for politics, genealogy and reading. He spent his post-Naval career working in the publishing industry, retiring from McGraw-Hill and then moving to Georgia in 2013 to be closer to his children and grandchildren.

Jim Neale attended an informal memorial for Tim Reichert at the national cemetery in Bushnell, FL. People attending were Ginger, Tim’s son and daughter, Tim’s sister, and his sister’s husband.

Tim & Ginger

The BoxTop$ King brings in $30,000! Lucian Acuff is again in the local news in Fairfax, VA for his fundraising efforts to bring field trips back to Brookfield Elementary. In April, chaperones and 146 fifth and sixth graders spent a day in Jamestown–for free. “It was because of canceled field trips that I got started,” said Lucian, “Brookfield had to cancel the standard fourth-grade Jamestown field trip because of COVID during the 2019-20 school year.” “I said, ‘not on my watch,’” Acuff recalled when he found out. He started slowly by collecting box tops and graduated to aluminum cans and coke caps. Acuff didn’t keep the work to himself and instead recruited anyone he met along the way to help him. “I don’t care what I have to do to raise the money, I’m good at raising money and I’ll figure it out,” Acuff decided, with encouragement from the principal. He started with the General Mills’ Unlock Brighter Futures game. The sweepstakes started in May 2021. “I started calling everybody, all the people that helped me with box tops or supplied me with coke caps or aluminum cans–anybody that was already a supporter helping me help the school,” he said. It wasn’t long before the fundraising effort went from local to international, with a friend playing and contributing from New Delhi.

Acuff would send out daily gentle reminders to those involved about playing and tracked their earnings by setting goals in the

box top app. “He kept moving the goalpost because we would meet it and beat it,” said a Brookfield parent. When the sweepstakes ended in Nov., Acuff and the 139 supporters along the way amassed more than $30,000, and the field trip was scheduled. Acuff credits all the supporters for this win. He asserts that big goals are not individual efforts.

‘70 was well represented at a recent Alumni Association RV Chapter come-around (yep, that’s what they call their gatherings) in Fredericksburg, TX. The event was hosted by Su and Dale Gange. Attending from ‘70, in addition to Dale and Su, were Jim Swoope, Libby and Bob Perch, Marc Ferris and friend JJ Tucker, Sue and Pete Patrick and Rose and Tom Wolfe. The group toured the nearby LBJ ranch and the National Museum of the Pacific War. Other activities included a bicycle ride along the River Trail in nearby Kerrville, TX and retelling old tales, many of which have become appropriately embellished over the years.

First Company held a company reunion in May in Pensacola, attended by Mary Beth and Bill Barry, Sharon and Charley Farrell, Celeste and Dick Folga, Debbie and Les Gable, Cathy and Bruce Gregor, Libby and Tom Gomia, Terry and Jeff Kaylor, Lee and Kevin Kidd, Cindy Legidakes, Greg Morris, Elaine and Bob Ness, Donna and Bill Nurthen, Leslie and Russ Olson, Patty and Dennis Ryan, Jackie and Pat Slattery, Kim and Barry Waddell, and Mimi and Mike Whittkamp. As a twist, they invited some of their 2/c Detailers from Plebe Summer Reid Carlock ‘68, Fran Holian ‘68, and Ken Pyle ’68.

Dick Folga writes: M “1st Company (Fun One) had a company reunion in Pensacola, FL in May. We had a great turnout and a fabulous time. All agreed it was great seeing so many of our company mates! It was a treat for all that three of our 2nd class plebe summer detail showed up for a “come around”. Our 3-day reunion included a Blue Angels show and visits to the National Naval Aviation Museum and Flight Academy (premier STEM program with a Naval Aviation

BLUE & GOLD OFFICER Would you like to mentor interested students about the opportunities at USNA? Become a Blue & Gold Officer and contact USNA Admissions at 410-293-1813. ’70: RV Chapter group

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 83

70/70 CLASS NEWS

Likewise, our own Santa, Rob Meyer (and Mrs. Santa, Debbie) came to Pensacola where we were able to get a very enjoyable lunch in with some of us locals. L-R: Royal Connell, Dick Folga, Rob Meyer, John Holewa and Chooch Jewell. I’d like to point out to the Reunion Committee that despite their unanimous statement that no one wears Aloha Shirts, 4 out of the 5 of us did exactly that!

’70: Fun One

theme). The reunion ended with a brief ceremony at the Pensacola Veterans Memorial Park where we honored our company mate, Dean Ledigakes, other classmates, and alumni at the “Walk of Honor.” Lest you think that having your 2/c attend was weird, Ried Carlock said this: “Fun One Vets, At the risk of reiterating earlier sentiments, I remain both humbled and honored to have been remembered by your Fun One classmates in such a light as to be invited to join you for your belated 50th Mini-Reunion. We hail from an institution that exemplifies selfless service to the preservation of those liberties and freedoms for which our forebears fought so dearly.

We share that bond. Thanks so much for inviting us to renew that bond forged some 56 years ago. Can’t speak for Fran and Ken, but from my perspective, whatever you took away from Plebe Summer, I took away tenfold for which I am deeply grateful. My sincerest wishes for your continued health, camaraderie, and prosperity.” Les Gable also weighed in: “Wonderful Company reunion. Bravo Zulu to Dick Folga for organizing all events and ‘herding cats’ during our week of ‘Fun One’ reunion.”

Bits & Pieces: Grant Thorpe, Dan Kestly, and Charlie Lewis, went on a 10 day dive trip in April in Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean. Lots of beautiful coral, fish, sea fans, warm water and sun. Good chow, adult beverages and lots of naps. Next trip Fiji in August 2022, come join us!

84 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Grant & Friends

Warren Mackenson reports that he and his wife Pat came down from their NH home to visit John Demlein and his wife Leslie. John is now in a home in Groton, CT where Leslie tends to his needs.

The news is out there but I would be remiss if I didn’t congratulate Kevin Sharer and his induction as our class’ sixth Distinguished Graduate. We were tied with four other classes with 5 DGAs and now we are the ONLY one to have six!

Finally we’ve seen some travelling despite the outrageous gas prices. I was out west and visited with my old friend and high school classmate Joe Buescher in Tucson and then with Dave Butler in Amarillo.

Santa and friends

Ring-A-Ding-Ding!

2022 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Follow Navy Football at: navysports.com

3 SEPT vs Univ. of Delaware 10 SEPTvs Memphis 24 SEPT@ East Carolina (Greenville, NC) 1 OCT @ Air Force (USAF Academy ,CO) 8 OCT vs Tulsa 14 OCT @ SMU (Dallas, TX) 22 OCT vs Houston 29 OCT vs Temple 5 NOV @ Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH) 12 NOV — Notre Dame (Baltimore, MD) 19 NOV @ UCF (Orlando, FL) 3 DEC — AAC Championship TBA 10 DEC vs Army (Philadelphia, PA) 1-800-US4-NAVY

71/71 CLASS NEWS

’71

Life Membership: 62% Donor Participation: 7.79% 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/

Summer is here! It’s hot just about everywhere in the Northern Hemisphere, but it seems especially so along the mid-Atlantic coast in locations like Annapolis. I do not remember a single day that was not hot and humid. Okay, there were some rainy days, but the rain did not mitigate the sweating we plebes did those days! I remember wondering if the summer would ever end. I am not too sure that the end of summer meant anything other than cooler temperatures as when the brigade returned, we were promised more upperclassmen who would gleefully add to our harassment! There was the promised Christmas vacation but counting the days did not seem to make the daily grind any easier. I strongly suspect today’s plebes are not so much harassed.

That’s a good thing as the hazing did not make me more professional, but it did make me determined to not be like my antagonist or other upperclassmen who made my life miserable. It also steeled my determination to not quit just because life was difficult. I suppose there’s some of the “what doesn’t break you makes you stronger” in that, and I agree. The hazing reinforced what I learned as a youth working on the farm – don’t give up! I suspect Captain James Lawrence’s dying words to Oliver Hazard Perry, “Don’t Give Up the Ship!” were influencing me! I will add that I had two outstanding classmates during the academic year, Lew Mason and Rich Connelly. They helped me a great deal when I had one minute to shower and change out of sweat gear into SDB’s. I am forever grateful for their help!

First up is a note from Rex Settlemoir: M “Duke, Following my retirement from the Navy in 1998, I spent the next 16 years teaching Navy JROTC in Ohio. High School JROTC programs from all the service branches often participate in a sport called Orienteering.

Although our USMC and Army brethren are familiar with it, Orienteering was a new experience for me, and I quickly became hooked on it. Since my ’full’ retirement from teaching in the high schools, I have continued to enjoy the sport on a regular basis and belong to the Orienteering Club of Cincinnati (OCIN).

Each year, our club sponsors a sanctioned National Orienteering Meet, which includes the Orienteering USA Junior Nationals.

Because of COVID, we did not have the meet in 2020 or 2021, but the 2022 meet took place as scheduled on 1-3 April at East Fork State Park, east of Cincinnati. We had over 300 entrants for an intense 3-day competition, including a highly motivated team from West Point. The Cadets’ scheduled flight was cancelled because of weather on the East Coast, but exercising true West Point determination, they rented vehicles and made a 10-hour drive to Cincinnati to compete in the OUSA Junior Nationals. As expected, the USMA Cadets won the Intercollegiate Varsity and Junior Varsity categories of the competition, but that didn’t prevent me from having some fun with them.

“Navy/USNA apparently does not have an Orienteering team, so I had to take advantage of the tailwinds from Navy’s upset win over Army last December. As each USMA Cadet approached the starting line, I handed them their orienteering map for that day’s course, along with a folded slip of paper, and told them that it was a special clue they would need when running the course. As they started to run, and unfolded the paper, each of the Cadets were treated to ’GO NAVY, BEAT ARMY’ in big letters. They took it in the expected spirit of Army-Navy competition and had some fun with me as well. Cadet Gregory Kies wrote ’BEAT NAVY’ on the back of his map and held it up to me at the starting line. Also, they invited me to stand with them for a team photo, and they let out a collective ’Beat Navy’ as we stood for the photo. Also, their team coach LCOL Heidi Demarest, was great to meet; she is a 2001 USMA graduate and is on the teaching staff at West Point (she also holds a PhD from Harvard University).”

Rex with LCOL Heidi Demarest

As our club was hosting the event, I didn’t run any of the orienteering courses, but it would have been fun to run against their coach (even though she is 30 years younger)! Best Regards, Rex, 27th CO.” Surely sounds like a lot of fun, especially the A-N competition! I’m wondering if you can get a ’71 team together for next year’s competition!

Next up is a note from Perry Martini: M “While Jean and I were checking in to the Bavarian Inn during a recent visit to Shepherdstown, WV, I pointed out to Jean that there was a car in the parking lot with license number the same format as mine – NA 71; however, this was with West Virginia plates instead of Maryland plates. We proceeded to check in and I wrote a note to be placed on our assumed classmate’s window, to tell him to give me a call so we could meet. When I went back out to the parking lot the WV car was gone. Later that day, I looked in my class files and found three classmates that lived in WV. I sent them all an email and got a response from classmate Fred Klein. Fred and his wife, Irene, lived right up the road from the Bavarian Inn and were attending a Mother’s Day brunch.

We all met for drinks at the Bavarian that evening and thoroughly enjoyed catching up on old times.” It’s a small world when you travel!

Gregory Kies Cadet, USMA with Rex

(L-R) Fred and Irene, Jean and Perry

Here’s a note from Dave Leestma with some good news:

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 85

71/71 CLASS NEWS

’77: Rex with the USMA cadet orienteering team members

M “Duke, I want to share the excitement and honor of joining the rest of my fellow ’71 astronaut classmates in the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame. I will be inducted this June and will be included with Bob Cabana, Frank Culbertson and Bill Shepherd (all previously inducted) to complete the Class of 1971 inclusion in the Hall of Fame. 1971 has more astronauts than any other USNA class, and I am delighted to complete the selection of all of us. I have included a picture of the four of us in front of the Space Shuttle Atlantis taken a few years ago. Duces Virum, Dave.” What an honor! I’m confident our entire class is honored to have all our astronaut classmates in the Hall of Fame! BZ! (L-R) USNA ’71 Astronauts - Bill, Dave, Bob and Frank

Dave Laws sent this note: M “Hey Duke, It’s great when you can be traveling to see grandkids and remember that your company mate, Jim Elfelt, lives on the way. After a visit to the Palo Duro Canyon, highly recommended, Joyce and I stopped in Amarillo to see Jim. Since the loss of his beloved Betty, Jim has spent a lot of time with his two daughters, his son and their families.

His home is a museum of over 250 vacuum tube radios, some dating back to the early 1900s. We enjoyed a terrific dinner at his favorite “I have company’ restaurant. He encourages any classmate traveling across I-40 to stop and see him. Just check first, because he participates in a lot of military honors at veteran funerals, including the recent service for our company mate, Steve “Mongo” Raphael. We look forward to seeing him again at the Academy as Steve is laid to rest in the columbarium.”

Sounds like an excellent visit!

86 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

(L-R) Dave and Jim in Amarillo

With regret I’m passing along to you the news of the passing of two classmates.

Theodore Balk, affectionately known as Ted or Teddie, died peacefully on April 12. He was born in Columbia, SC, August 17, 1949, and grew up in Blackville, SC. After graduating from Blackville High School, he was appointed to the US Naval Academy, from which he resigned to join the US Army. He served in Viet Nam with the Army Signal Corps. From there he landed in a commune in Belgium, traveled through Europe with his sister on his 750 BMW, then returned home. He graduated from Clemson University, had a lengthy career as a registered civil engineer, and spent most of his adult life in the Clemson area. His love of music began with his baritone horn in the Blackville High School marching band and led him to become the drum major of a Scottish marching band in the upstate, performing at Scottish games and festivals throughout the South. Ted was a contributor and editor for the international literary journal Weekly Hubris.

As one of the founders of the Spittoono Music Festival in Central, SC, a devoted Clemson sports fan, and a barbecue pit master, Ted was most beloved and recognized for his laugh. For the last ten years, he found a spiritual home and a beloved second family with his friends at Greenville Yoga. Funeral arrangements will be held at a later date. For more information visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or

Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home & Cremations, Terry Virus passed away unexpectedly following back surgery on May 3rd in San Clemente, CA. Hailing from Grand Island, Nebraska, he joined us on 28 June 1967.

Graduating out of the 19th Company, Terry will always be remembered for his active participation in serving us most notably on the Class Hop Committee and Lucky Bag photo staff.

After graduation Terry pursued his dream of becoming a Naval Aviator and flew for many years with Delta Airlines until his retirement.

A lifelong bachelor, Terry enjoyed life to the fullest and was active in the local community and a member of the local golf club. Those who met him remember his friendly personality, keen sense of humor and someone they could always call a good friend.

Dave Hackett sent this timely note: M “Hi Duke, The Class of ’71 was well represented at Terry Virus’ Celebration of Life on May 10. Terry’s neighbors at the Sea Point Estates community in San Clemente hosted the Celebration. More than 100 people attended, including neighbors, classmates, and golfing buddies. All came to pay their respects to the nice guy, Terry Virus. Classmates attending included Dan Nelson, Don Gunther, Dave Bolduc, Fred Mallgrave, and me. Dan flew in from Arizona and spoke about how he and Terry had been friends since high school and had driven together on leave from Annapolis to their home state of Nebraska, only stopping to fill up the car and hit the head. Dan said that Terry had been a nice guy for as long as he has known him.

“Terry flew P3s on active duty and then had a career with Delta Airlines. Terry was passionate about golf and was one of the cofounders of a golf club without a course the ’Downhill Liars’. Terry was always busy organizing golf events and trips to Hawaii, Bandon Dunes, and Great Britain.

Best regards, Dave.”

I recently received the following information on two classmates who passed away in 2020.

Their services were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A memorial service and internment for Vince Esposito was held at Arlington National Cemetery on Monday 16 May at 1445. Vince passed away May 1st, 2020.

A celebration of life was held for Wilson “Will” Fritchman Saturday, June 11th at the San Jose Country Club in Jacksonville, FL. Will passed away August 4th, 2020.

Too soon, it is time to close. Please keep our classmates and their families in your prayers for good health, especially continuing protection from the COVID-19 virus, healing

71/72 CLASS NEWS when needed, safety in travels, and strength to meet every challenge. Today is the gift of “the present” and life is precious and too short!

Love passionately, give and share your 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: 58% Donor Participation: 11.26% Pres: CDR Bob Leib, USN (Ret.) e: rcleib1972@verizon.net Sec’y: CDR Rich Robison, USN (Ret.) 3126 North Greystone Dr., Morgantown, WV 26508 e: Scribe72@comcast.net

’72: Presenters at the Class of ’22 Graduation

Second Lieutenant bars as they walked off the rostrum: Bob Leib, Bill Moffatt, Don Gersuk, Rich Robison, Skip Kohler, Gary Coyle, Larry Groves, Ed Bagley, Tal Manvel, Al Olsen and Jeff Beard.

Website: http://1972.usnaclasses.net Class Listserv: TheGouge-USNA72@googlegroups.com Facebook: USNA Class of 1972

Sir, you now have…TWO months until the come-around in Annapolis to celebrate our 50th Reunion—Thursday, 27 October— Sunday, 30 October 2022. If you haven’t signed up yet—it’s not too late. Go to the Class of ’72 50th Reunion Website: http://1972.usnaclasses.net/50th-reunion/ for the latest information.

Another Link in the Chain Dept. Folks, our four-year ALITC effort culminated on 27 May with the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2022. Although the weather was not nearly as bright and sunny as it was that June morning some 50 years ago (it was drizzly and murky with a tornado watch in effect), the thunderstorms did hold off long enough to graduate 1,100 members of the Class of 2022 and award them commissions in the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps. The Principal Address was delivered by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., with remarks by the Secretary of the Navy (Carlos Del Toro ’83).

The Oath of Office was administered by the Commandant of the Marine Corps (GEN David Berger) for 274 members of the class commissioned in the Marine Corps, and the Chief of Naval Operations (ADM Michael Gilday ’85) for 798 members commissioned in the Navy. Eleven members of the Class of 1972 were on the field that morning, handing each graduate their first set of Ensign or

The box containing the bars presented by the Class of ’72

CLASS SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES Send to: classnews@usna.com

2022

ISSUE: September ’22 October ’22 Nov-Dec ’22

DUE DATE: Jun 27, 2022 Jul 25, 2022 Sep 26, 2022

Additional photos of the event and information regarding our Class’s ALITC involvement can be found at https://www .flickr.com/photos/unitedstatesnavalacademy /sets/72177720299307009/ and https://www.usna.com/news/gold-bars. Also, since the ceremony was shortened due to the onset of severe weather, the Class of 2022’s President, ENS Andre Rascoe, delivered remarks he had prepared for graduation in Memorial Hall after the event. You can see that at: ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZyzIvKIt1w . (Of note, he gratefully acknowledged our Class’s support at 4:05 on that video.)

A special note of thanks and appreciation goes to Gary Coyle, who spearheaded our Class’s involvement in the ALITC program for the Class of ’22 since long before their Induction Day back in 2018. COVID and other challenges notwithstanding, Gary persevered and ensured that our Class was always properly and professionally represented, no matter when and where significant events occurred. Well done!

A few months ago, Tom Goudy suggested that our Class consider sending a message to our counterpart ’72 alumni at USMA, USAFA and USCGA congratulating them on the 50th JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 87

72/73 CLASS NEWS anniversary of graduating from our respective service academies. Acting on that suggestion and with the concurrence of the Class Officers, Bob Leib signed and delivered the below letter to the VP for Engagement and Communications at the USNA Alumni Association in late May, who forwarded it to his counterparts at the other alumni associations for delivery to their respective ’72 Class Presidents. This may have been the first time this has ever been done…and how appropriate that our Class was the one that did it. Thanks to Tom for this great idea.

Closing ranks. We learned that Leo McGinn (12th Co.) passed away over four years ago —on 20 November 2017 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Bruce Englehardt discovered the Memories page at: https://www.weremember.com/leo-mcginn /7w5d/memories and shared the news with us: M “Classmates - maybe you all knew this, but I certainly was shocked to find this news. I was trying to find his phone number to ping on him about 50th reunion. Leo, Tim and I roomed together for 2+ years. He was a good friend and his Baltimore based family served as my home away from home while at USNA. His sister Marie was my ring dance date. Leo went to Nuclear Power School in Mare Island. He dropped out after acing his last test just to prove to himself he could do it - in order to earn his wings of gold. Went from there to USS Badger - a Knox frigate out of Pearl, then off to flight school and E2 Hawkeyes. Had a very successful career and retired as an O6 - with multiple commands. I only saw him once after nuclear power school and he was very stealthy about correspondence. God knows I tried to keep in touch- but was not successful. I am very sad.”

Gary Smith (18th Co.) passed away peacefully at his home in Naperville, IL, on 16 April 2022, surrounded by his family. His obituary can be found at: https://www.friedrichjones.com/ obituaries/Gary-Edward-Smith?obId= 24610649#/obituaryInfo, which also provides a 88 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

place to leave condolences and remembrances.

Gary is survived by his wife, Judith, and their three children. We understand that Gary’s ashes will be interred at the Naval Academy Columbarium on Friday, 28 October, during our Class’s 50th Reunion in Annapolis.

Bob Curtis (10th Co.) passed away at his home in Hastings, NE, on 18 April 2022.

He is survived by his brother, sister, nieces, and many great nieces and nephews.

Memories can be shared at: https://www. dewittfuneral.com/obituary/RobertBob -Curtis. A memorial gathering was held on 19 May 2022 in Hastings. Perry Dempsey attended and provided an account: M “Today Pufroc was laid to rest (figuratively speaking). Today was a day of mixed emotions.

On the one hand those in attendance celebrated the GREAT life that Pufroc led, and the STRONG inspiration that he was to all who spoke. But obviously, we are all saddened by his abrupt passing.

“There were about 60 family and friends in attendance…and the service was led by Bob’s pastor. The pastor asked for people to tell their stories about the experiences they had with Pufe. Everyone who spoke—self included— testified how Pufroc had enriched their lives.

I relayed two episodes (I had dozens, but I didn’t want to monopolize the service—lol).

Additionally, I explained the origin of how Pufroc got his nickname (The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock)—and HOW IT STUCK! Much laughter.

“Finally, I asked around about the cause of death and the circumstances of his being discovered. There was no autopsy because the cause was deemed apparent to be a heart-related issue…”

her 9 days later, on March 11th, 2022… The oldest of 3 children, Bill spent his childhood outdoors, hunting and fishing in the Montana wilderness. Even as a child, Bill was smart, adventurous, and an avid dreamer – traits that would carry him to great places throughout his life. Upon graduating from Billings West High School, Bill went off to The United States Naval Academy, where he majored in Electrical Engineering and commissioned as a submarine officer with the class of 1972. Shortly after graduation, he married his beloved wife Donna and they eventually moved to Honolulu, HI where he completed most of his active duty commitment. After finishing his Naval service, he attended Oregon State University where he earned a second bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and began taking flying lessons at a local airport. Eventually, Bill became an airline pilot, a career he pursued for the next 30 years. In retirement, Bill enjoyed doing yardwork, hunting, fishing, and spending time with loved ones…”

Bill and Donna are survived by their three children and six grandchildren. The full obituary can be found (and memories shared) at: https://everloved.com/life-of/ bill-and-donna-roukema/ .

The Class extends its deepest sympathy to the families of each of our deceased Classmates.

Also, a reminder that, if you become aware of the death of one of our Classmates, please pass any information you may have to me (Rich Robison—scribe72@comcast.net) and Bill Moffatt, our VP for Class Affairs (wgmoffatt@comcast.net) so we can get the word out to the rest of the Class.

That’s about it for this month. Hope your summer is a safe and fun one! More to come.

D. O. Tried and True with ’72

’73

Life Membership: 66% Donor Participation: 29.47% Pres: Mr. Dirk P. D. Mosis III p: 210-204-0352; e: dmosis3@aol.com Sec’y: CAPT James H. Chapman, USN (Ret.) 769 Largo Dr., Virginia Beach, VA 23464-2417 p: 757-462-0344; e: chap769@yahoo.com Dempsroc at Pufroc’s Memorial Service

Bill Roukema (9th Co.) and his wife, Donna, were both killed in a tragic car accident on 11 March 2022. The following is an excerpt of the beautiful obituary written by their daughter: M “Our beloved parents, Bill and Donna Roukema passed away following a car accident on March 2nd, 2022. Donna, 70, passed away the day of the accident, and Bill, 71, followed

Hello 73! I hope this finds you well and enjoying summer. It’s been pretty slow in Virginia Beach. The weather has not cooperated and as a result we have not been able to get out on the water. Bummer! The good news is I have a variety of great stuff and a lot of pictures to share so let’s get to it.

The first item is recognition and a big Thank You to Bill Short from the Class and Class Officers for all he has done to support Classmates and veterans with complications from Agent

73/73 CLASS NEWS

CLASS OF 1973 50th REUNION

5-8 October 2023 REUNION HIGHLIGHTS Thursday, 5 October TBD Reunion Check in at Hotel (The Westin Annapolis) TBD Golf TBD Shipwreck Party (N* Room or hotel) Friday, 6 October 0900-1700 Reunion Check in at Hotel 1000-1100 Class Meeting - US Naval Institute 1100-1200 Memorial Service - US Naval Institute 1350-1500 Superintendent Briefing Mahan Hall 1600-1715 Dress Parade (Worden Field) TBD Company Parties Saturday, 7 October 1000-1700 Reunion Check in at Westin Hotel TBD Football Game and Tailgate (N* Room at Stadium) Sunday, 8 October TBD Brunch in King Hall TBD Dinner Dance in Dahlgren Hall

Registration and Check-In Location: Westin Hotel Transportation will be provided to all events by Annapolis Bus Company Please update your contact info with the Alumni Association at usna.com

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 89

73/73 CLASS NEWS Orange and helping them to navigate the requirements of the Veterans Administration.

Bill was designated a Distinguished Classmate and will be presented a citation at the 50th reunion next year. I am going to paraphrase from the citation because it is difficult to format in Shipmate but in part it reads; M “To William E. Short In recognition of his outstanding service to the United States Naval Academy Class of 1973. His enthusiasm, vision, organizational skills, and unparalleled accomplishment have set the standard for servant leadership. Bill has blessed numerous ’73 Classmates and their families, as well as other Veterans, who needed help with the Veterans Administration as they struggled with the effects of Agent Orange. Bill knows that divine providence has led him in his eternal quest to serve and to help others. He epitomizes ‘73’s motto of “Non Sibi.” It is with tremendous honor and pride that we recognize Bill as our Distinguished Classmate!”

Bill, Thank you for all you do and BZ! It is difficult to put in words the importance of your efforts.

The Class celebrated several special events on March 24, 2022 in the Aerospace Engineering Office spaces in Rickover Hall.

*Enshrining a montage from Ken Reightler’s STS-60 Space Shuttle mission *Putting on display a propeller salvaged from ‘73’s time in the Aero Department. *Unveiling Ray Fulton’s wooden ship model of a “Baltimore Clipper” Ray’s wife, Nancy, attended the event, as did Ken, 17 of his 1973 Classmates, numerous Aerospace Engineering majors from our ALITC sister class of 2023, and CAPT Cecily Walsh, USN (USNA 2001), Associate Chair of the Aerospace Engineering Department.

As an Astronaut, Ken was the pilot of the first joint U.S.-Russian space shuttle flight, and the montage contains items commemorating the Class of 1973’s involvement in that flight including a class patch that was on DISCOVERY during the mission. The partially damaged propeller is an artifact from Ken’s time as a midshipman. Both he and Classmate Jim Ewing were Aerospace Engineering majors, and during first class year they participated in hovercraft experiments on Hospital Point.

During one such experiment, their craft hit the seawall, and the propeller that is now on display reflects that collision. This event provided some useful lessons for the Department,

including the crew, on the need for greater Safety Awareness.

Ray was a Naval Architecture major at the Academy. Before his death, he built some very detailed ship models. The Baltimore Clipper ship model that was unveiled at this event will be put on the display in the Robert Crown Sailing Center at the Academy. Being faster and more maneuverable than British warships, Baltimore Clippers enjoyed considerable success as “blockade runners” during the War of 1812.

Nancy Fulton beside Ray’s ship model

In response to my call for stories on your “mid car” I received the following from Bob Adams which I think will bring a smile.

’73: Classmates who attended the event

’73: Ken Reightler with Class of 2023 Aero majors 90 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

M “Jim, I started motocross racing in my junior year at USNA. The USNA clinic doctors would not go home until I returned on Sunday evening with whatever race-related injury of the week I would bring them. It turns out that it is a pretty dangerous sport. I never won any races at USNA and it took over a year of Sunday races before I was strong enough to complete the three-moto series required to win anything. This picture was taken with my new 250cc Honda sitting in my 1973 pale green Ford Ranchero. I had finally won a race at the famous Carlsbad Raceway. I always raced as number 73. This was after I had finished SEAL training and was assigned to UDT-11 in 1975. I bought my first motorcycle right after plebe year from a graduating senior.

I hid it with other unauthorized vehicles in a local lady’s garage for $10/month. It was my weekend escape vehicle ridden with a tinted bubble visor on the helmet so I could not be recognized heading home to Alexandria, Va. Saturday afternoons. Mom (the daughter of VADM Smedberg, a USNA Superintendent) never thought I would graduate until the actual day of graduation. Hookah Bob

73/74 CLASS NEWS

Bob Adams and his motorcycle.

I asked Bob if he had a picture of the Ranchero but unfortunately he did not.

My next item is on 8 April 2022, at the semi-annual meeting of Athletic & Scholarship Program Trustees meeting in Annapolis, George Watt was surprised by RADM Tom Lynch’s presentation of a long overdue and well deserved award of the Navy Goat in full on battle regalia. The plaque is inscribed: “USNA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION & FOUNDATION George Watt with grateful appreciation for your service as President/CEO 2000-2008”

good information. And, one can connect with Classmates. Dan Thigpen (dan.i.thigpen@ outlook.com) updates a ‘73 Prayer List weekly of Classmates desiring prayers for each’s life challenge. I hope to make a few football game tailgates this fall, and to see Classmates. It is that time again!

Finally, the ‘73 crew guys met a $60,000.00 challenge made by Mark Cavallo, and two new shells, “The Skip Sweetser” and “The Carl Ullrich” will be christened at the 50th, and we have seeded the Crew Coaches Fund with monies raised. Thank you, Mark for your generosity! Row Navy!

I have some sad news to pass on, Gregory Neal Little, non-graduate, died on February 8, 2022.

After graduating San Jose State University’s Drama Department, he taught at Ithaca College and worked in the theater and entertainment industry throughout the world. He is survived by wife Christina “Tina” Schuknecht, sister Gay Deasy,

and nieces and nephews. Look for more on Greg’s life in an upcoming Last Call and please keep Greg’s family in your thoughts and prayers.

That’s all the news! Please continue to stay safe. I encourage you to make sure your contact info is up to date with the Alumni Association so you can get updates on the 50th Reunion. Please send along any pictures or stories from our time at the Academy.

As Always, Semper Fi! and Go Navy! General.

’74

Life Membership: 59% Donor Participation: 9.86% 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 We’ve each had certain days in our lives that standout, as particularly significant events shaped our futures forever more. As a group, we share some of those days; days that we can point to and declare, my life changed course at that moment, changing my expectations, my goals, and even my definition

George Watt receiving the Alumni Association Award for his service

I received the following from Dirk who wanted to share some thoughts. “I am excited that Doug Rice is about to start sending the 50th Reunion gouge. I think that tailgates, Reunions, social functions are truly what most of us care about- being with longtime friends, Shipmates, Company mates. This socialization reminds me that we each should reach out to someone with whom we’ve not been in contact. Let them know they are being thought of. My own 15th Company has found a couple of MIA’s.

They had just drifted out of range of communications. My recent trips to Annapolis have put me in contact with Mids, Staff, Coaches, Instructors, Alums, AD, Supe, et al-USNA is doing its job. I hope Classmates at least peruse my emails to the Class, or go to USNA.com and log in (Rick Elliot at: richardaelliott73@gmail.com) will help someone log in. Rick’s posting have reams of

’74: Monthly Dose of ‘74 - April Edition

’74: Monthly Dose of ‘74 - April Edition (Part 2) JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 91

74/74 CLASS NEWS of home. Certainly June 29, 1970 was one of those days. As was June 5, 1974. Red letter days, shaded in blue and gold. Days that spawn great enthusiasm for the future.

Anticipation of new and exciting things to come. It’s a real joy to live those days, knowing in real time, that you are about to set sail on new adventures, and your new definition of home will be shaped by events to come.

Perhaps the day you retired was also such a day in your life. The beginning of a time when life will hopefully revolve around a lifestyle you’ve spent most of your life working towards. Hallelujah. Like discovering the Promised Land at last.

Kim and I have gone under contract on a home in The Villages in central Florida, and by the time you read this column, we will be residents of The Sunshine State. A new definition of home, and an entirely new definition of neighbors. With many of you living within a reasonable driving distance of our new address, I hope to see classmates on a regular and frequent basis from now on. My (8th) company has four classmates within 2 ½ hours. There are several swim teammates also within that distance. And with UCF only 30 minutes away, I expect to see many of you in Orlando when Navy administers rightful discipline on their football team this coming November 19th. If anyone is thinking about making the trip to Orlando for that game, please get in touch with me. I think a USNA ’74 event is in order.

However, before leaving California, I need to catch up on recent events. As most of you know, the San Diego area has a great history of class comradery. The Monthly Dose of ’74 continues despite a re-surging of Covid.

Dick Plush (32nd Co.), sent the following note after the April edition.

M Here’s a brief Shipmate input from the San Diego contingent: We diversified our choice of San Diego meeting places this month by gathering at our new North County location of El Pueblo Mexican Restaurant in Del Mar. Everyone liked the new venue, and the food and vibe of the outside patio area were most enjoyable.

Twelve classmates and one lovely spouse were in attendance, including: Gary Leupold (4th Co.), Dick Costigan (33rd Co.), Tim Rastok (19th Co.), David Topolewski (31st Co.), Jay Wells (16th Co.), Evan Rasmussen (26th Co.), Bob & Suzanne Santos (5th Co.), Gary Graupmann (6th Co.), Alan Lerchbacker (20th Co.), Bob Foltyn (34th Co.) and Dan Donoghue (4th Co.).

Bob Foltyn added some class to the event by bringing his pristine gold ‘73 Vette by for us to appreciate.

92 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

A good time was had by all.

Happy Easter, everybody!

Thanx for sending, Dick. Glad to see that someone down there remembered to bring a camera!

It should also be noted that Dick recently passed a major milestone: His 70th birthday did not pass without the notice of a huge contingent of American Airlines personnel, as well as our classmate (and my 8th Co. mate) Doug Foster. Doug managed to get a photo taken early enough in the evening while they were both still standing.

the Navy, but in the community, in industry and as a volunteer ranger for the National Park Service. Jean Humphreys was very pleased to have such class representation.

Jean kindly agreed to stand for a picture with the ’74 representatives.

L to R; Paul Reid, Marc Pearson, Bill Molloy, Bud Sawyer, Jean Humphreys, Ted Phelps, Marty Jarosz and Neil Holden.

Charlie Humphrey’s Internment (5-18-22) Thanx Bud.

Dave Pattillo sent in a 2nd Company update:

Dick Plush & Doug Foster - in Dallas

You may remember the recent passing of Charlie Humphreys. Bud Sawyer provided the following for the class: M On May 18th, Charlie Humphreys was interred at the Washington Crossings National Cemetery in Newtown, PA. ’74 was represented by Marty Jarosz (25th Co.), Bill Molloy, Marc and Charlene Pearson, Ted Phelps, Paul Reid, and Bud Sawyer, (all from 22nd Co.) and 25th company by Neil Holden (15th Co.). Neil provided an eloquent tribute to Charlie during the service in that they were not only fellow submariners but hiking buddies from the White Mountains and as very close family friends. Neil detailed Charlie’s professional career and personal achievements, not only in

’74: 12nd Company Mini-Reunion (May 3-6)

M The 1974 USNA alumni from 2nd company got together in Nashville for a mini-reunion May 3-6, sharing memories of USNA days and careers since graduation. (Where travelled from) Front: Reed Kennedy (VA), Mick Keville (NY), Joe Avveduti (TN), Lindsey Borders (TN), Ralph McGee (N). Back: David Pattillo (GA), Jeff O’Brien (MN), John Peskuric (TX), Dan Steele (WA), Paul Wohlers (VA), Frank Short (VA). (Jeff Fort (OH) not pictured).

Great weekend, Dave. Thx for the photo.

One of my old 8th Co. roommates, Jack Mason, and wife Cherral have been doing some gallivanting around the country lately, and stopped over in Big D to break bread with another old roommate, Doug Foster. They were kind enough to remember me and my need for space fillers for this column.

74/75 CLASS NEWS piece of fruit in your room” is pretty loosely interpreted.

It truly was a great evening! Hearty thanks to the Alumni Assn., to Rusty Yeiser (32nd Co.) for the “coordinating instructions,” and to Dr. Doug Rau (7th Co.), who had nametags made up to help folks recognize each other!

BZ all ‘round. Jim

Masons and Fosters - Dallas (May ‘22)

In closing, we should remember our role in Another Link in the Chain with the class of ’24.

It may seem to many of you that the bond and potential leadership position of alumni 50 years senior to current midshipmen may not be particularly relevant today. Although many of the activities that were planned to nurture that relationship were cancelled due to the pandemic, the events that have taken place have proven the very opposite. Not only have we seen strong interest from the members of ’24 to tap this source of experience and knowledge, we’ve also seen a very keen interest by parents to learn from this aging resource.

Jim Diehl (24th Co.) took time to send a write-up on the Youngster Luau, which was specifically designed as ALITC activity. Based on Jim’s comments, the interest we are seeing remains consistent. Jim also mentions some aspects of life in Bancroft Hall today that I think you will enjoy reading.

M The Youngster Luau was a terrific success!

I really didn’t think that the young kids would want to hang out with a class 50 years their senior—but most tables were mixed. There weren’t enough of us ’74 folks to go around, but some of us walked around to say hi.

The “Dant” is a Marine Colonel who was there to greet folks. He seems to enjoy a good rapport with the 3/c. It was good to see a number of company officers and a few battalion officers drop by.

There were lots of laughs over stories.

Jaws dropped when we told them about engineering classes with slide rules! They regaled us with tales of coffee makers in their rooms (guess there’s no more requirement to get up early to put on a pot for the 1/c in the company wardroom).

By the end of the dinner, I had three more Marine options and two who want to go intell! ;-) Chow was plentiful and the caterers were great. Dawn and I were talking to some 2/c on the “Task Force” (looked like a MOOW on patrol) when the caterers were taking things down—giving out whole pineapples that they didn’t want to take back. Evidently, that “one

Nice write-up Jim. As I wrap up this issue and send it off to Shipmate, I will be packing my toothbrush, and hitting the sack early tonight. I’m leaving at 3:00am in the morning to drive to my new home in Florida. I hope to see many of you there. And remember, November 19. You know, when Notre Dame came to San Diego to play Navy a few short years back, we had close to 100 members of USNA ’74 attend that game. Perhaps we can do something similar to support our team as they take on the always-tough University of Central Florida.

Go Navy, Beat a lot of teams in 2022!

’75

Life Membership: 60% Donor Participation: 13.02% 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, Observant classmates who opened the April-May Shipmate to the class news section were shocked — SHOCKED! — to find that your Scribe completely missed a column. I blame it on Putin. Actually, NO EXCUSE SIR! I have filled out the old Form-2 I keep in the gouge folder and have started serving daily sunrise observation sessions on my pool deck

while performing the manual of arms with the leaf skimmer.

A couple of months ago, readers of our class Facebook page read a cool story from Lorin Fife. Here’s Lorin’s post from mid-March.

M “Great news today! My book, “One More Season: The Birth of Football’s Modern Spread Offense” has made it to the finalist round of the 2022 Screencraft Cinematic Book Competition. It continues to garner great reviews and sales. If you haven’t already read it, I hope you’ll pick up a copy and enjoy the read.

You can find it on Amazon. Here is a brief summary of “One More Season:” A magical saga unfolds when a scrawny young bookworm with unfulfilled dreams of football glory crosses paths with an aging high school coach whose dreams have faded. Over the years, football experts (Sports Illustrated, ESPN, CBS Sports, The Wall Street Journal, Hall of Famers John Elway and Dennis Erickson, among others) have recognized “Cactus Jack” Neumeier as the legendary inventor of a wide-open brand of football that electrifies legions of contemporary football fans. Neumeier’s offense, initially known as “basketball on grass,” dominates football today at every level of play from peewee league scrimmages to NFL Super Bowls.

But that was not always the case.

The year was 1969, a tumultuous time very much like the present. With a well-deserved reputation for mediocrity and his coaching job at Granada Hills High School on the line, Coach Neumeier looked across the Generation Gap at an undersized, inexperienced crop of candidates for his next team. Out of desperation, Neumeier, an unlikely revolutionary, threw out his playbook and formulated a new turbocharged offense now known simply as “the spread.” The offense relies more on teamwork, courage and intelligence than size and speed. In a single make-or-break season, Neumeier, together with that lanky bookworm

’75: Cheering on ’25 on a beautiful Annapolis morning JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 93

75/76 CLASS NEWS

’75: 14th Company supports Deb Gabor at the USNA Columbarium

and his teammates, changed “three yards and a cloud of dust” football into an exciting, unpredictable, high-scoring passing game.

It was a year when underdogs became champions, a year when a middle-aged coach reinvented himself and the game of football along the way — a season when fairytales came true. With echoes of “Friday Night Lights,” “The Boys in the Boat,” “Remember the Titans,” “Rudy,” “The Blind Side” and even “American Graffiti,” sports fans of any age will love “One More Season.” Caution: Salty language typical of teenaged football players may not be appropriate for some younger readers.”

At column deadline time, our Another-Link-inthe-Chain class of 2025 was preparing to climb Herndon in just a few days. In the finest tradition of passing the gouge to our young friends, Chick Cikanovich is working with the leaders in Bancroft to try to arrange a presentation to ’25 by our Herndon conqueror, Dr. Mike Maynard. Mike will be there this year as a mentor. Mike put together a great presentation on the differences between Herndon today and Herndon in 1972. It’s probably the most valuable training lesson ’25 received all year. I asked Mike to send a full report for the September issue.

[Late breaking news: Despite our encouragement, it took the “no mo’ plebes” 3:36:58 to complete the task on 25 May. Our record stands.]

Al Eaton sent a nice report on the inurnment of Jim Gabor. “As many of you know we lost Jim Gabor far too soon on 10 October 2021.

Members of 14th Company and their spouses gathered with Jim’s wife Deb (in red) and their families for the Inurnment Ceremony at the Columbarium on 22 April 2022. We shared stories of special times spent with Jim, his friendship and his service to our country.

Rest In Peace, Shipmate. We miss you.”

94 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Ric Johns was recorded for posterity.

One of his sponsor sons is doing a Life at the Academy series of podcasts for the history department. He asked Ric to be their first volunteer. The recording is at: https://player.fm/.../life-at-the-academy-1capt-ric Note that he even gave Ric a promotion—but apparently DFAS didn’t get the word.

I certainly hope you are enjoying your summer. Re-stock the gouge locker for me, will you? Otherwise, I will recount the entire Florida high school softball season for you in September. (Yes, that’s a threat.) ’75 Sir! Larry

’76

Life Membership: 59% Donor Participation: 5.38% 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/

As I reflect on this Memorial Day 2022, I am reminded of the classmates, alumni, and friends that we have lost over the years. To these brave men and women that we have lost: You are forever in our hearts and minds.

Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. May we all have the courage and conviction to be the kind of American that honors the sacrifice of these heroes by the way we conduct ourselves in our day-to-day lives. For “if you want to thank a soldier, be the kind of American worth fighting for.”

(Author Unknown) John Sarao participated in a NROTC birthday celebration:

M I recently attended the 20th Birthday celebration of the Naval ROTC unit at the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa.

Richard Dick ’73 and I are plank owners of the unit. Richard was the first Commanding Officer, and I was his XO. We along with some of our other plank owners and BGen Thomas Draude ’62 were honored at a Pass in Review by the USF Buccaneer Battalion and birthday cake cutting ceremony. BGen Draude served as a mentor when we first commissioned the unit.

I am currently still serving as the Director of the Joint Military Leadership Center at USF providing university support to the Army, Naval and Air Force ROTC on campus. This has been a great way to continue working with our motivated college students who want to serve our country as commissioned officers.

They keep me motivated and energetic.

CAPT Dick ‘73, BGen Draude (’62), Dr. Judy Genshaft (former USF President) and John Sarao

Bill Kneller has exciting news regarding Another Link in the Chain (ALITC): M USNA ‘76 is sponsoring the class of 2026 as the 50-year mentors via Another Link in the Chain. When Kevin Stone announced last year the class initiative to sponsor the program, I asked if anyone was covering NAPS. The answer was no, so I volunteered to coordinate with NAPS leadership in the summer of 2021.

NAPS was grateful to receive the support and we arranged the following, some of which has already been reported in Shipmate.

Provided reviewing officer for parent weekend dress parade - Gary Hall stepped up for this event in September 2021 Support January 2022 Dining-In with class representatives at each table to mingle with the Midshipman Candidates: Bill Kneller, Joe McGowan, Mark Nesselrode, Jim O’Connell, Kevin Stone, Debbie & Dave Winters, Steve Chapman, Ed Gilmore, and Mark Ruprecht.

Additionally, we engaged the 25-year mentors from ‘01 with Sunny Risler, Brian Ross and Charles Chmielak.

Provide reviewing officer for graduation pass in review on 12 May 2022: John Allen stepped up for this with more details below:

76/76 CLASS NEWS The Class of 2026 has been jump started with the NAPS Class of 2022!

Tim Farrell and Tom Bonner represented Class of ’76 at the 60th Annual Parents Night Dinner on May 12th hosted by the Philadelphia Chapter USNA Alumni Association to welcome aboard the Class of 2026 from the Philadelphia area.

’76: Tom Bonner & Tim Farrell with the Class of ‘26 from the Philadelphia Area

Provide class award and present to the selected Midshipman Candidate at graduation on 13 May 2022: Bill Kneller represented the class for this with more details below Bill Kneller and John Allen met with the NAPS CO (Captain Jim Bahr ‘96), XO (Major Mike Magyar ‘11, USMC) and Command Master Chief CMDCM Jerome Nurse in the NAPS Executive Conference room prior to the dress parade. On the wall was a large picture stated to have “historical significance” that the staff didn’t know what it was.

John Allen immediately identified it as the NAPS Bainbridge campus many of us attended in 1971-1972. We pointed out several the landmarks and afterwards decided that our class would produce an annotated copy to be presented to NAPS. As you read this, it is a work in progress with the extended NAPS ‘72 class invited to assist.

At the dress parade, John Allen provided very moving comments for the graduating NAPS ‘22 class. He noted that during their lifetime, the ‘22 graduates had not experienced a time when the US was not engaged in an active conflict. After the parade, John & Bill had a chance to relax over a couple of beers on Bill’s sailboat before John attended the NAPS Graduation ball.

On 13 May, Bill Kneller represented ‘76 to present the award (an engraved watch) to the deserving Midshipman Candidate selected by the NAPS staff using the criteria established by ‘76. Midshipman Candidate Olivia Kosnick from Ann Arbor, Michigan was selected, and the award certificate signed

by Kevin Stone stated: Congratulations, it is my distinct honor and privilege to name you as the inaugural “Another Link in the Chain” awardee for your outstanding support to your NAPS classmates in the classroom, Ripley Hall, and in athletics throughout the past year. Specifically, you were chosen because you embodied the motto “Class, Classmate, Self” wherein you supported your NAPS class and classmates first, putting them before yourself. As you will learn in Annapolis, one of the verses of Rear Admiral Hopwood’s “Laws of the Navy” says: On the strength of one link in the cable Dependeth the might of the chain; Who knows when thou mayest be tested?

So live that thou bearest the strain!

You were tested and did bear the strain this past year, proving that you are worthy of becoming “Another Link in the Chain” of the over 85,000 graduates of the United States Naval Academy. I look forward to seeing you sworn in at the Naval Academy in June and to your progress until graduation and commissioning in 2026.

Scott Jenkins, Dave Sneeringer, Leroy Sparr, and Tim Farrell enjoyed evening meal at Harry’s Savoy Grill in Wilmington, DE on May 5

Dennis Franklin asked me to pass on word to the Class that he is doing well and looking forward to the possibility of moving to Hilton Head, SC, where he plans to settle and do some sailing. His dream is to purchase a liveaboard catamaran. He says he will make it up to Annapolis this fall to attend a few Navy games and to hang with the Class.

I received an update from Steve Nimitz: M In April, I took 16 members of my family to Fredericksburg, TX, for a week to revisit the territory in the Hill Country where I spent my summers growing up. In addition to hitting some family sites, we all visited the National Museum of the Pacific War. In my youth, the portion that is now the Admiral Nimitz Gallery at the museum was the entire show and entirely housed in the old Nimitz Hotel in Fredericksburg. Fifty years later, the little display has morphed into a world-class WWII museum that really should be on the bucket list for anyone with an interest in the Pacific theater of the war. Since I was there for a week, I reached out to Gary Lundeen ‘75 who lives in Austin to arrange a two person Navy Lightweight Crew reunion. Gary was also a first class in 3rd Co. when I was there as a second class. Gary and his wife, Beth, drove to Fredericksburg to join Gail and me for lunch, sea stories, and rowing lore. We were energized just before lunch by the news that the Navy lightweight crews had swept the races against arch-rival Harvard earlier that morning on the Severn.

After NAPS Dress Parade: Bill Kneller, Mike Magyar, John Allen , Jim Bahr and Jerome Nurse ALITC Award Recipient Olivia Kosnick with Bill Kneller and Olivia’s Mom & Stepdad JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 95

76/77 CLASS NEWS birthplace is in some of the most beautiful countryside on earth. Make this a unique vacation, one that you will never forget!

Steve Nimitz and Gary Lundeen enjoying a Navy Lightweight Crew Reunion

On a final note, Craig Custer (26th Co.) passed away on April 19th. Craig, Tom Kennedy, and I were roommates Plebe year and even had the unique privilege of spending Christmas 1972 restricted to Bancroft Hall.

Craig left USNA after our Youngster year. TK was able to attend Craig’s memorial service in Freeport, FL. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Rhonda Hill Custer, and his extended family.

Dave Fleischman is proud to announce news about his son: M In late March, I traveled to South Texas to witness my son David’s graduation from advanced jet training and receive his “wings of gold” at NAS Kingsville. He will now report to VMFAT-502 (the Flying Nightmares) at MCAS Miramar where he will fly the F-35B Lightning II. I am still recovering from the emotional trauma of the Buffalo Bills’ loss back in January. Other classmates from western New York (Pearsall, Hall, Astyk, Champlin) will understand and appreciate my pain.

Memorabilia table at Craig Custer’s memorial service

Hoping all of you have a safe and wonderful summer.

’77

Life Membership: 74% Donor Participation: 5.33% Pres: John F. Vuolo 71 Hidden Gin, Hinton, WV 25951-5184 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

“As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free.” – Battle Hymn of the Republic by Julia Ward Howe, an appropriate quote for Memorial Day

Dave Fleischman beaming proudly with his son, David

From Jim Poole: M The celebration at the John Paul Jones House, Portsmouth, NH, on April 24, 2022, was a wonderful success. More than 250 people attended and were entertained by the First New Hampshire Regiment and the Ranger Fife and Drum Corps. The keynote speaker was RADM Samuel Cox ‘80, Curator of the Navy History and Heritage Center.

On July 9, 2022, The John Paul Jones Museum/Scotland will celebrate the 275th birthday of John Paul Jones (July 6, 1747). For details, please check out The Museum website: www.johnpauljonesmuseum.com. His 96 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Avast, me hearties, and attention to brief!

We begin with a brief administrative note: Currently over 90 classmates and wives have registered for the 45th Reunion golf extravaganza at Queenstown Harbor on Thursday, October 20th, and approximately 140 for the awards dinner to follow at the Severn Inn. So, if you’re interested in participating, feel free to contact yours truly at: magoo1310 @verizon.net. We guaranty a fun time will be had by all.

Since we’re on the subject of the golf event, Joe Christofferson (4th Co.) responded to an earlier entry detailing Team Christofferson having placed long-time member Craig Turley (36th Co.) on waivers, then signing Phil Schlaepfer (4th Co.). Here’s Joe in his own words (with minor grammatical corrections!):

M Hello Magoo, first, as for my team, yes, we made some changes! Unfortunately, we did not resign Mr. Turley. His age and skills required us to go in a different direction! We have instead signed Phil Schlaepfer. Our team is now Troiani, Haines, Schlaepfer and me. A true 4th CO team! We will be representing appropriately and request to be placed between team Lamb and team Magoo for obvious reasons. We are also volunteering to be the overall honor representation for the tournament. Although we do not expect any cheating whatsoever, our team is willing to adjudicate any issues that may arise! Looking forward to seeing everyone! Joe Two thoughts immediately came to mind: First, OUCH! Craig, how’d that bus feel driving over you?!?; and second, does Joe’s offer for his team to act as the tournament Honor & Rules Committee bring the image of the fox guarding the henhouse to anyone else’s mind?!? Hose, we’ll think about that and get back to you.

Next, Mike “Eddie Haskell” Canders (10th Co.) opened his email celebrating Navy’s 12-11 OT win over heavily-favored Army with “How ‘bout them Navy Lacrosse Mids!”

Two years ago, Mike was invited to be the guest speaker at the Navy Lacrosse dinner up at the Thayer Hotel prior to the 2020 Army-Navy Lacrosse game. The entire event was cancelled due to the WuFlu, but on the evening of Friday, April 22nd, Eddie cashed in his “rain check” for another opportunity to address the team prior to the game on Saturday, April 23rd.

He reminded the Mids we all witnessed the 3-8 underdog Navy football team take down the 8-3 Black Knights at Met Life stadium last December, and that it was time once again to enjoy their unranked, underdog status and play loose against a #6-ranked opponent on its home field.

Mike then had the chance to sit and enjoy a conversation with Coach Joe Amplo, during which the subject turned to our departed classmate Owen Thorp (22nd Co.). Eddie told Coach Joe how proud and grateful ‘77 is that Owen will always be remembered by the Captain Owen Thorp Navy Lacrosse Wardroom, a fitting honor for a great friend and classmate who made such an enormous contribution to both the Academy and the Lacrosse team.

Next day, Eddie was texting (see screen shot below) Gary Holst (10th Co.), Mike Vieten (10th Co.) and a few other 10th Company classmates from his seat in Michie Stadium during one of the most exciting contests any of them had ever witnessed.

That was one heckuva game, and a great win on which the Navy lacrosse program can hopefully build.

77/78 CLASS NEWS

…Included a caption for women’s champion, who coincidentally had also just won her second-straight title, we thought we’d have some fun by cutting off the men’s caption and keeping the women’s, then adding the verbiage about Buddy transitioning to “Louise” to gain an edge by playing the ladies tees.

As the caption was an integral part of the gag, it created some confusion when it was inadvertently edited out. Jokes are only funny if you provide the punchline!

Magoo

’78

Life Membership: 81% Donor Participation: 7.82% Pres: Glen Woods Sec’y: Vince Balderrama 1320 Homewood Ln., Annapolis, MD 21401 e: canoeu78@aol.com Website: usna1978.org

’77: Texting

Finally, we owe everyone an explanation for an errant entry on Kirk “Buddy” Barker (9th Co.). Buddy had forwarded a photo of his

partner and him celebrating their second straight club championship, and since the photo, shown below…

I open, embarrassed, that I had meant to get the following into earlier columns and simply misplaced the news. So mea culpa, mea culpa, and apologies to my Foxtrot Companymate, Dave Williams (12th Co). Earlier this year, Dave sent a note to briefly update since he and I were in BGO training decades ago. He long retired as professor and dean of students at the Naval War College. He explained that after fifteen Navy moves his bride, Karen, issued him his final orders to the Jacksonville Florida area. “Quickest orders ever!” he exclaimed. In 2011, Dave was ordained a JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 97

78/78 CLASS NEWS

Drew and James

’78:

Roman Catholic Deacon. Since then, he’s served in ministry to international merchant mariners in the seaport, and their parish. Most of the past 11-years acted as Chancellor for the Diocese of St. Augustine. Dave said, “Life has treated us well. Both sons are making a career of the Navy, happily married, and have blessed them with three grandkiddos.” Oldest son, Joshua, is in Yokosuka, Japan as an air intercept control instructor. Dave had the pleasure to commission their youngest son, Kyle, who after 16-years enlisted in submarines, will continue his career in the cybersecurity field as an Information Professional.

Kyle, Karen, and Dave Williams

At the end of April, the Naval Academy Minority Association (NAMA) held a leadership conference in the Yard.

Ray “Raymoon” Luevano (6th Co) came out from California to attend and visit Bubbas in the east. At the NAMA event he noted seeing Eddie Reid (21st Co), Mo Tose (17th Co), Mike Sears (36th Co). Ray met up with Chris Wode (30th Co) and Bruce Gearey (36th Co) for golf on the Navy course. Later, I met up with Ray, Bruce, and Ray Kwong (32nd Co) for a tasty dinner and dessert at The Point in Arnold.

James Gafford (36th Co) dropped another note of a classmate encounter. In early May he was in Houston for a nephew’s wedding. There he met Companymate, Drew Nienhaus for a

first-rate Tex-Mex lunch at Pappsito’s Cantina.

(They actually “see” each other often during 36th Company once-a-month video checkin.). Forty-four 44 years ago, on May 8th, James was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes at the Navy Hospital on Hospital Point. It was 30 days before he graduated. Since then, James has acknowledged it “has been (and will continue permanently as) a non-stop shaper” of his. He added that he’s more than grateful to have made it this far. He’s also grateful for the opportunities and experiences to enjoy the camaraderie and fellowship of my classmates since he found his way “back into the “fold” in 2003, including and especially those from 36th Company. He concluded with, “like the alma mater says, ‘…we scatter far and wide…’

But even though I wasn’t commissioned and took about as perpendicular a path from graduation as one might imagine, just knowing I am and always will be part of the Class of 1978 is a thing I treasure beyond wealth.” We hope we can find all our ’78 “lost souls” by our 45th so they- like James- can enjoy the ’78 family. In closing, James added that the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston awards a gold medal to Type I diabetics who reach 50 years managing the disease. He fully expects to collect his in 2028 (our 50th Reunion). At the ceremony he plans to shout out in his most stentorian voice…“ BEAT ARMY!”

’78:

98 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Alex “Dog” Callas (26th Co) dropped a note to invite anyone that would like to support his annual Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) golf tournament. As many may recall, Alex’s family has been raising funds for the MDA ever since his late brother was diagnosed with neuromuscular disease. The disease is life robbing, and he lost his battle eight years ago. They’ve raised over $1.2M for the MDA and vow they will continue their dedication to the cause until they raise that “magic dollar” and find cures that will make life better for so many.

The family continues its commitment to the MDA and this year will mark the 51st consecutive year that the Callas Family will conduct their fundraising campaign. They’ve aligned their efforts with the Tanks Direct Muscle Golf Tournament where Dog is on the event Board of Director. The tournament will be September 26th at Queenstown Harbor Golf Course in Queenstown Harbor, Maryland. Alex and his family would certainly appreciate your participation and support. Alex chairs the auction and can use items to support that part of the day (Merchandise, Gift Certificates, Experiences etc...). Donations are always welcome. Over the years many classmates have participated and have supported this effort. Alex is very pleased and proud to say that your dedicated and unwavering support has been critical to their success.

The event website is: https://tanks-directmuscle-classic-golf-tournament.perfectgolfevent.com/ You will find all the info for the event that you need.

78/79 CLASS NEWS On a personal level Alex still works on the Canadian F/A-18 Program. He hopes to “ride that until [he] hits the beach in 2 years.”

Thankfully, Canada continues to extend the platform life, so he’ll remain gainfully employed.

He’s been on the Program for 42 years and joked that the word on the street is that I have more cracks in my fuselage than the jet.”

Dog also returns for his 45th season as a Football Coach. If I remember correctly, his teams have won more than handful of championships.

Back in May, Jim Fiorelli (2nd Co) attended a “Men’s Advance” at Immanuel Bible Church in Springfield, VA to hear (and see) Art Athens (18th Co) share three messages on “Overcoming Adversity.” The event was hosted by CAPT Tom Joyce ’79, USN (Ret), Pastor of Discipleship and Family at Immanuel. Jim said that Art did a fantastic job sharing some excellent thoughts on this topic. Other classmates in attendance were: Mark Fox (18th Co), Greg Baur (33rd Co), Ray Milton (18th Co), Ray Luevano (6th Co), and Andy Funke (34th Co). Mark at the time was just a few weeks post-open-heart surgery and looking great. Jim also ran into Jeff Upchurch (’81), who looked at Jim’s nametag and said, “You were my plebe summer first set squad leader — the first firstie I met!” Thanks to the many years in between, Jim said Jeff seemed to have fond memories. Jim and Jan are enjoying Princeton. They are a 5-minute walk from their son Matt, his wife Andrea, and four grandkids.

Near the end of May they had lunch with Companymate Barb and Vin Bellezza at their place at Long Beach Island. Vin is working “part time” winding down his leadership at ASEC (Jim’s impression) and they are enjoying their grandkids and working hard helping care for them in three separate locations — NJ, MD and VA. If you see a young-looking Bellezza down at Pax River, that is NOT Vin — it is his youngest son, John, a Navy LCDR stationed there!

Kim Tageson (36th Co) and his wife, Jane, hosted Nancy and Will Pearce (5th Co) to an evening boat ride on Falls Lake. Kim sent a picture of he and Will checking the boat safety equipment. Kim reported “No one went overboard, though I had the “Oscar” flag ready. I think all went well, though you may need to check with Will to get his side of the story.”

Gotta dash! See you next month, Launchin’ Spot Four.

’79

Life Membership: 91% Donor Participation: 6.02% 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!t So how is everybody doing? So far this summer has been a blur – a series of quick trips separated by work. Fortunately for me,

most of my work is out of my home office, so I don’t have to deal with Atlanta traffic every day. Believe me, every time I head to the airport, I’m very grateful that I don’t have to face commuter traffic every day.

The word of the day seems to be “travel”.

I mentioned I’ve been on a series of short trips.

I’ve also spoken with several classmates who are traveling or are planning to travel this summer. Even with prices the way they are, seems as though the desire to “get out there” is still strong.

A couple of ’79ers have taken a few minutes out of their adventures to update us all on what they’ve been up to. Tony Konecny (10) sent me a note from the Good Times Ten’s “mid-term company reunion” in March at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Attendees included Sylvia & John Jolliffe, Sheila & Tom Gibson, Sharon & Tom Brandl, Jil & Steve Jordan, Corinne & Tony Konecny, Pedro Leon-Guerrero, Betty & Charlie Mark, Nancy & Warren McAuliffe, Geri & Dave Olmstead, Mitzi & Dave Rogers, Bobbie & Frank Scholley, Scott Whitney, and Ted Williamson.

Tony continues: M Thanks to host John Jolliffe and organizer Tom Gibson, all basic needs were provided, and we were able to just to relax and socialize.

Highlights included a welcome reception and dinner hosted by John and Sylvia, a night at “Cirque du Soleil - The Beatles LOVE”, and a hike at Red Rock Canyon. There was much eating, gossiping, and some gambling. Most left their money at MGM Grand except for John Jolliffe. This was 10th Company’s first “off-site” reunion, and based on the success of the event we expect to do it regularly, at a variety of locations, between the regular reunions in Annapolis.

Thanks for the update, Tony. It’s a good idea to have these at different venues – those Vegas trips can get rather expensive!

’79: 10th Company “mid-term reunion” in Las Vegas

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 99

79/80 CLASS NEWS working for over 23 years at Finnegan Henderson, and then at Marin & Ferraro, Maxon IP, and Burr & Brown. He retired in January 2022.

Jim is survived by his wife Silvia and his four children, teenagers Andrea and Michael, and the older twins Nicholas and Megan.

Services were held in May in Potomac, MD. That wraps things up for now. I hope all of you continue to have a terrific summer, and as I said before, I REALLY hope you all drop me a line and tell me about it! See you next month.

Wiz… 12th Company roommates on the links: Bob Graham, Mike Foreman, & Chris Cable

Chris Cable (12) checked in with a note about recent a “work event” (I use that term very loosely): M Greetings from Northern Virginia! A trio of 12th Company shipmates (and Plebe year roommates) met at a charity golf tournament in Ashburn, VA on 25 April. Mike Foreman, Bob Graham and I hacked away to help raise money for “Higher Orbits” - an organization promoting STEM. Students from across the country develop proposals for experiments to be done in space and astronauts work with them in a “Shark Tank - like” setting.

Astronaut Mike flew in from Houston and was part of the celebrity draw. With a highlydeveloped sense of humor and great panache, Mike displayed some awesome fundraising chops, including auctioning off the (somewhat sweat stained) ball cap that he wore THAT VERY DAY for a sweet $250! AND he won “closest to the pin”!

Bob Graham made the 2.5-hour drive from his home down near Pax River, MD, and I had the luxury of an easy 20-minute drive from my home in Aldie, VA. A fun outing for a worthy cause, and a fantastic opportunity to connect with shipmates!

What a great idea – astronauts working with kids to develop experiments for future space missions. Thanks to all of you for representing ’79 at the fundraiser. Appreciate the update, Chris!

Once again I must close this month with announcing the loss of another classmate.

Jim Edmondson (10) passed away peacefully on 12 April 2022, surrounded by family. Originally from Euclid, OH, Jim attended nuclear power school after graduation from Navy.

He then received orders to USS BILLFISH (SSN 676) where he served as the chemical radcon assistant.

In 1984 he decided to change careers and left the Navy to pursue a law degree, graduating Georgetown University in 1988. He became a highly successful a patent attorney,

100 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

going to ride her horses and I get to ride the John Deere. We are putting a pool in at the farm so we can relax and entertain there.

Plan to do some travelling. Chelsea, and our two grandkids, are in Japan where Kirk is stationed. So that is one trip. Also looking at a horse-riding trip to South Africa. Probably some more boating.

’80

Life Membership: 96% Donor Participation: 5.62% 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, Summer is here. We just celebrated the 42nd anniversary of our graduation from USNA. It was great to see all the notes and memories fly around on social media. 42 Years – tell me it isn’t so – where did it go….

As I have shared multiple times, Mike Serafin, mike@ mikeserafin.online, has lived two doors down from me for over 26 years since I introduced him to his wife Corinne. Yesterday I saw a strange truck with a trailer in Mike’s driveway. It belonged to none other than Mike Matson, who had come over from Ocean Springs, where he works for Leidos in the shipbuilding industry, to help Mike empty the rest of his “stuff” from his house. Mike is in the process of moving to start a new chapter.

Here is his update: M Joe Corinne and I are closing a chapter and turning the page to retirement. We completed our plan; sold our business, Baker Lyman, quit working, sold the Hatteras (hole in the water in which to pour money), and finally have sold our house in New Orleans. It took a year or two longer than planned, but it is finally complete. We celebrated by chartering a Power Cat in the BVI for 10 days.

We are retiring to our farm in Bush, LA, on the north shore of Lake Ponchatrain. Corinne is

Mike and Cammy

Cammy has gotten through the pandemic job market and is currently working in New Orleans and living in her grandmother’s house.

People never leave New Orleans.

Enjoyed the reunion immensely. Have been seeing some Classmates, Mike Matson (10th), who lives in Mississippi, and Eric Forde (10th).

Looking forward to visiting see more with our free time.

So, the movers are here. Getting ready to close the door for one last time. Sort of bittersweet. We got married on the back deck during our block party 26 years ago. Now we are moving on.

Bittersweet is an understatement. I have really enjoyed having a Classmate so close by and we have developed a great friendship over the years. Congrats to Mike and Corinne as they start this new chapter. Here are a few photos that Mike shared with me as well as one of the three of us at his house yesterday. Wishing him all the best!

Mike , Mike and Joe

80/80 CLASS NEWS

’80: Classmates attending Smittys funeral Mass

At the end of March, we lost another Classmate, Gary “Smitty” Smith of 1st Company. This note came in from our Class Treasurer, Barb Geraghty, bageraghty80@ gmail.com who attended his memorial service.

M On May 9th approximately 35 Classmates attended the funeral Mass for Gary “Smitty” Smith who passed away on March 30, 2022. It was a celebration of Smitty’s life as a cherished Classmate, friend, father, coworker, and former youth basketball coach. Following Mass, a Navy Honor Guard played Taps and presented Smitty’s oldest daughter, Amanda, with a flag that had been flown over the Naval Academy on May 1, 2022, on what would have been Smitty’s birthday. Carl Hendershot, Smitty’s roommate at NAPS and godfather to Amanda, gave a moving tribute to Smitty’s fierce loyalty and devotion to his friends and those he loved, particularly those from his time at the Academy. Carl led the alumni in singing Navy Blue and Gold in Smitty’s honor.

This month we also had a service for the three members of the family of Bob Berkebile, who were lost to Covid. The Class was well represented. Thank you to all who were able to support Bob during this very difficult time.

Here is a photo from the service sent in by Andy Barton, ajbarton737@gmail.com:

(L-R) Terry Fitzpatrick, Ken McAdow, Beth (Ledbetter ) Gordon, Bret Gordon, Bruce Ross, Andy Barton, Gregg Larson, Roger Ishii, and Bob Berkebile.

This month I received a great update, and a wonderful visit in New Orleans from Greg Mislick, gmislick99@yahoo.com.

Here is his update: M Joe, First was a chance to have lunch in San Jose with Brian Carmichael (27th Company mate).

Brian is still working hard at Northup Grumman and gets up at 0430 every morning and is on the road by 0500 to beat the traffic—yikes. As the photo shows, he is still way taller than me and it was great to catch up!

Then a few weeks later I had the chance to meet up with Randy Stefanovic (27th Co) in Florida where he and Tammy are building a massive 10,000 sq ft home along the east coast near Stuart. We had an awesome dinner together and then a tour of the country club the next day which was just as spectacular.

Retired life is suiting him very well!

In March, I went to Las Vegas for the first weekend of college basketballs’ March Madness (an annual trek if anyone wants to join in) and had a nostalgic lunch one day and dinner the next with the also-retired Reuben Padilla. I say nostalgic because we went to the Leatherneck Club with a fellow Marine buddy off the strip for an amazing (and massive) burger for lunch, and you can see the uniqueness of having the Marine Corps Eagle, Globe and Anchor emblazoned into the top of the hamburger bun! (photos attached).

Rueben and Leatherneck Club

Next was going to Cape Canaveral to watch the Axiom Space launch of Mike Lopez-Alegria (27th Co). Despite the launch being delayed on three occasions for a total of about 10 days, it finally went off on a beautiful calm day on 8 April.

For the trip, I flew into New Orleans first and got the chance to stay with Joe Grace at the Grace Mansion for two nights which was super fun and much appreciated.

I then drove to Orlando, and spent two nights with Barbara and Mark Rushing (27th).

Mark is now fully retired and we ended up going to the launch together and while there, ran into Andy Otano (27th) as the three of us managed to snag tickets to the VIP section to watch the launch. It was breathtaking and exhilarating feeling the ground rumble intensely as Mike launched into space. What a thrill and an experience! The photo on the next page is Mark, Andy and me with the launch site in the background, plus the photo launch itself for the historic 17-day mission. If you did not get to see any of it, check out Axiomspace.com and you can relive every moment!

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 101

80/81 CLASS NEWS

Mark, Andy and Greg

And last but certainly not least, our very own Admiral Bill Lescher came to the Naval Postgraduate School for a very brief one day visit and gave a two hour talk to the student body as Vice CNO. I got the chance to attend the lecture as did Brian Wood, and we got to talk to Bill for a few minutes afterwards before his aides scurried him away! It is hard to believe that he is still serving 42 years after we all graduated in the great class of 1980! It was very inspiring to see him and hear him talk and impart his motivating leadership ideas upon the active duty students.

That’s about it for now. Hope this finds you all well and please drop me a line and visit if anyone is ever in the Monterey area! All classmates welcome.

It was great to see Greg as he came through New Orleans. All Classmates are welcome!

Would love to see you on your way through our great City.

For my final note of the month, I received an email from Vic See, vic.see2@gmail.com who had a baseball update: M Joe, The baseball reunion that we put on (2 years late due to pandemic) was a huge success. Friday night the Supe hosted us for a parade and then the Supe’s reception. Saturday, NAAA took wonderful care of us by setting up a tent with food and drinks and expanded it into the very first baseball reunion (I believe over 100 players attended). We honored Jim ‘Goo’ McKee in between the games and dedicated a stadium seat behind home plate to Goo. His wife, son and brother were there as well as 4 of his friends from Audubon, NJ. Very moving and a wonderful ceremony. Mike Mullikin presented the family with a poster, Goo baseball cards and Bob Ravener ’81, resented the family with a beautiful memory book filled with photos, history of the 79 team, player tributes and then all the players signed. ’80 players present were Mike Mullikin, Rich Seiler, Paul Kelleher, George Petro, and me,

along with some who played with us early on like Don Senerius and Bob Cottrell. We spoke a lot about our friend Bill Brodhag who was a catcher under Goo for a few years. It was a fantastic afternoon at the stadium.

FYI, I don’t know if you saw Steve Nota’s (Benny) diary of him walking the Appalachian trail. I started Facebook messaging him a while ago when he started. Then his mother passed away while he was in the middle of his journey.

Benny was one of my roommates in VA Beach/Norfolk when we first started flying in H-2 squadrons. Thursday, I drove up to Palmerton, PA and met with him for a late steak lunch. Tomorrow, I will drive up to the town of Wind Gap, PA and pick him up and bring him back to the farm here for a relaxing day (and he can sleep in a bed). Also, pretty exciting, I was asked to be the Commissioning Chairman for the USS Carl Levin, DDG-120 commissioning. Nick Katsitis and Mark White got me involved. Mark is in the Baltimore Navy League Council. We have asked Steve Benson as well to join the committee. The Commissioning is scheduled for the spring of 2023 in Baltimore. He is working to get Mike LopezAlegria to be the speaker at the banquet!

In closing, I hope that this finds each of you healthy, happy, and wiser today than yesterday. Please take a few minutes to renew a friendship, call / TEAMS / ZOOM / Text / Visit a Classmate – and take care of each other. You never know what a difference you can make. Forty-two years – where did it go Mr. Wizard?

As always, BEAT ARMY, —Joe

’81

Life Membership: 96% Donor Participation: 7.67% 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

We got a family update from Joe Lawrence.

His nephew, Keenan Lawrence, who is a Firstie at Annapolis had the wonderful opportunity to meet Patty Whitney (Crandlemire) (04), Bob Ravener (17), Tim Disher (12), Dennis Murphy (01), Dan Quattrini (01), Doug Heimbach (31), Chuck French (21) and Jeff Castleton (35) at the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation Distinguished Graduate Award Ceremony in April. He received a sponsorship award for academics from Rear Admiral Thomas Lynch ’64 (Ret.) who was the Supe, 1991-1994, and is the Chairman of the mortgage bank NewDay USA. From Murph: “What an awesome young man.

He was really poised in his talk to a large crowd of VERY intimidating old goats.”

We also got a note from “Dave Warren (07) and Ted Studwell (02), who spent 10 days together on a river cruise in the Netherlands and Belgium along with their wives in April.

Pictured from left to right are Dave, Dave’s wife Diane, Ted’s wife Barbro and Ted.

’81: Patty, Bob, Tim, Dennis, Dan, Doug, Chuck (squatting) and Jeff (kneeling) 102 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

82/82 CLASS NEWS

Class of 1982 October 27-30, 2022

40th Reunion Schedule of Events (Subject to Change)

Date

Event

Place

Thurs. 27 Oct.

Golf Outing USNA Walking Tours & Coffee Reception Crab Feast Memorial Service Class Meeting Supe’s Call P-rade Class Reception

USNA Golf Course Halsey FH O Club TBD Memorial Hall (Bancroft Hall) TBD TBD Worden Field Jack C. Taylor Conf. Center (Beach Hall) Various Visitor’s Center TBD Navy Marine Corps Stadium –Class of ’53 Pavilion Various Route 2 Trailhead – AnnapolisBWI Trail Various

Fri. 28 Oct.

Sat. 29 Oct.

Sun. 30 Oct.

Company/Team/Club Gatherings Old Goat Run Service Project Tailgater and Navy beats Temple!

Company/Team/Club Gatherings Bike Ride Company/Team/Club Gatherings

Hotel Blocks are sold out. Please obtain your own accommodations.

Event Registration, Class Merchandise & Important Updates See Our Class Website at:

www.1982.usnaclasses.net or visit our Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/usna82 Questions? Contact Rett Rasmussen at rett@rasmussen.biz or 562-822-0755 JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 103

81/81 CLASS NEWS

’81: Henry Aszklar - good looking guy with glasses in the middle. Lisa took the picture.

The cruise started in Amsterdam NL and ended in Antwerp BE. There are a lot more canals in those two countries than you’d ever guess, including many locks!

In addition to lots of canals, there were plenty of tulips, history and buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries.”

Dave (07), Diane, Barbro, Ted (02)

Next up - Henry Aszklar (24) and his wife, Lisa, met with a group of five midshipmen during Spring Break. They were over in the United Kingdom led by a team of English Professors, including Commander Erin Meehan (‘97). The guy who sends these Mids all over the world is our own Tim Disher. Dish had this to say about the group Henry and Lisa bumped into. “This program offered a once-ina-lifetime cultural adventure by blending literature, experiential learning, and even long-distance exploration by mountain bike in the Scottish Highlands. William Shakespeare’s words and timely works often read like a handbook on leadership. Participants gained valuable cultural literacy, first-hand, in the land of the great bard.” Nice Dish, I like it!

For some background to the picture, Tim Fox (the Alum contact in London pictured in the back with his son) did a fantastic job bringing the alums together for the ‘soft launch’ of his new pub called Passyunk Ave. 104 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Henry and the gang were able to hang this flag up on the wall and a few other Navy jerseys, etc.

Vice President George Basil (25) slapped me in the back of the head and said, “I noticed in your last article that Greg Dougherty was listed as a member of 1-2, which is factually correct. While he didn’t graduate with us, Doc was a member of 25th Company. Can we please write a correction in the next issue?”

Yes Mr. Vice President, correction done. NAPS guys, they’re so pushy.

How about another correction? Everybody get their Apr/May 2022 Shipmate out and turn to page 98. Under the photo of “Larry” Hagaman and his granddaughter Lucy, cross out Larry and replace it with Bruce. Bruce Hagaman (36) was very kind in pointing out to us that he is not the actor Larry Hagman. Bruce noted that Larry and he share the same birthday but spell their names differently and Bruce is very much alive, unlike the former “Dallas” star.

Passing on a heartwarming story you might like to hear about. If you go to the USNA Alumni website and look up the various videos you can stumble upon a video showing Mark Washington’s (09) little brother Craig (Class of 81 plus 8) giving an alumni presentation to the parents of this year’s future graduates.

Craig was telling the audience about how, after graduation, your son or daughter will have a group of fellow alums that will always have their back, or words to that effect. To prove his point, Craig told a story about etting a call from the Mayor of Canfield, OH, the Honorable Dick Duffet (31) and Dick told Craig he would like to know if the Alumni Association could help the local high school athletic director, a member of the Class of ’77 and

retired Captain, who needed a liver transplant because he was dying from genetic liver failure. Craig told Dick the Alumni Association, regretfully, could not get involved in the organ donor business; however, they could contact the three chapters in Ohio so they could reach out to the classes above and below ’77 to see if anybody would like to volunteer for a match.

The point of the story was to show the parents the powerful network their child was going to be entering.

I reached out to Duff to ask him how accurate Craig’s accounting was and I’ll let Duff tell the rest of the story. By the way, Duff was using our fellow Alum’s name and to respect his privacy I changed it to Alum or Captain. This editing makes Duff seem somewhat cold and ham-handed when he is really very caring and a smooth talker, but you all know that. Take it away Mayor Duffett “We were fortunate that so many Navy alumni and our City of Canfield residents were willing to see if they were a match for the AD as his health was definitely getting worse.

The Captain’s wife told me that a nurse or doctor on the transplant team thought he must have been a former Cleveland Brown, or some kind of celebrity, because so many folks were steppingup and volunteering to get tested to see if they could be a match in order to help save his life. Indeed, it was wonderful to experience the love that was displayed from both our Alma Mater and our City of Canfield. I was proud of our Canfield Community for the support they provided in both donating funds to support the incidental costs and being willing to get medically screened to be a potential donor. Ultimately, an assistant wrestling coach was a match. The Captain is doing very well since his transplant. Our Classmate Admiral Ted Carter even got involved as he provided me key contact information at our USNA Alumni Association so we could make an appeal to our Alumni. The Captain is retired from being our Canfield School District’s AD and is actively babysitting his grandchildren and being active in our American Legion.” The Class of ’81 is a powerful network and we need to use it to check in on one another. Company reps keep the emails going to your group. Give your old roommate a call or a text message. Let’s stay connected and make sure we’re doing all right.

Did you hear about Bob Ravener (17)?

Back in April Bob announced his candidacy for Tennessee’s 61st House District seat. Did you know Bob graduated from USNA, where he lettered in baseball and served as the president of his class? He served active duty in the navy as a submarine officer for almost six years before entering the business world, where he held positions at Fortune 500 companies PepsiCo, Home Depot, Starbucks and Dollar General. Bob lives in Franklin, TN

81/82 CLASS NEWS with his wife of almost 40 years, Lisa. They have three grown children and four grandchildren.

Well, now you know. Good Luck Bob!

’82

Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 5.19% 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

M “Recently Ted Campbell (35) hosted 6 other classmates from 35th Co. at his beautiful home in Jacksonville for a great weekend minireunion and a wonderful day of fishing. Joining Ted were Jack McHale, Mark Johnson, Phil Salinas, Dave Galiyas, Joe Krebes, and Pete Hoffman. Surface, Subs, Navy Air, Intel, and USMC Ground and Air are all represented. The general consensus was that even after 44 years we are all still best friends and that no matter how many years or miles separate us we are so blessed to be a part of the Great Class of ’82. Brothers and sisters for life.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the 40th.”

Website: http://1982.usnaclasses.net Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/USNA82

Picture stolen from FB, Tim Disher (12) (not running for anything) and Bob hanging out at the new and improved Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium

The word was passed in April and too late for us to get into Shipmate, but it’s worth repeating. The United States Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation announced the 2022 Distinguished Graduate Award recipients, who will be honored in a ceremony at the Naval Academy this Fall. The Great Class of 1981 had two honorees, Peg Klein (31) and Ted Carter (01). Here are snippets of the announcement; Rear Admiral Klein served for 36 years as a Naval Flight Officer, was the first woman to serve as the Commandant of Midshipmen and completed her career as Senior Advisor for Military Professionalism on the staff of the Secretary of Defense. Vice Admiral Carter served for 38 years as a Naval Flight Officer, amassing the most carrier arrested landings in history (2,016), served as the 54th president of the Naval War College, and completed his career as the 62ndSuperintendent of the Naval Academy. The Class could not be prouder that Peg and Slapshot have joined Wendy Lawrence (13) as Distinguished Graduates.

Greetings to the great class of ’82!

You should be reading this column at some point in the late summer, but I am writing it in mid-May. Here in the mid-Atlantic, everything is green and blooming. The heat, humidity, and mosquitoes have yet to make an appearance!

Many of my most vivid memories of plebe summer involve sweating- sweating on the astroturf during PEP, sweating during P-rades, and lying in a pool of sweat on my rack each night in the non-air conditioned Bancroft Hall.

Commissioning Week for the class of ’22 will soon be here, as will I-Day for the class of ’26.

Guess what else will soon be here?? The big 40th reunion for the amazing class of ’82! See Rett’s post below for more details regarding all of the hard work our stellar reunion committee has been putting into this event. So on with the news: Heard from Fred Byers (25): M “My daughter-in-law, Betty Byers, a Chief Petty Officer, graduated in April at Groton Submarine Base as an Independent Duty Corpsman. It was a year of training and clinical experience. She is reporting to the USS Florida at Kings Bay (SSBN-728). She’ll be one of 50 female submariners aboard with a crew of around 175. Photo includes my wife Laura Cunningham, Betty Byers, and son Seth, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class stationed at NAS Jacksonville. BEAT ARMY!”

Pete Hoffman hauls in a big one!

Joe Krebes displays his catch

Slapshot and Peg

In closing, if you haven’t received your Reunion Book yet, I think it’s time to put a BOLO for Mr. Dave “Chic” Ciccarelli (12) who just might be lounging on some faraway beach where there is no extradition agreement with the U.S. Just kidding Chic. Go Navy!

Phil Salinas with a beauty!

A great Navy family of Laura, Fred, Betty, and Seth

Pete Hoffman (35) checked in with the following: JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 105

82/82 CLASS NEWS famous Dixie Crossroads Restaurant in Titusville, Florida. Many Astronauts have visited this restaurant over the years. Dean is leaving Central Florida for his new home in Indianapolis. Rebekah and I are looking forward to seeing everyone at the 40th reunion. We are expecting a new Grandson to arrive in May of 2022. ’82 backs the Blue.

Beat Army, Steve”

Congrats, Tom. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!

Always great to hear from a companymate, in this case Rick Simon (24): M ”Mark, A recent gathering of the USNA Alumni Association in Virginia Beach had 82er’s attending. From left to right: Rick Simon (24), Todd Morgan (34) and Neil Bourassa (31). Life is going well for all of us!!

All the Best, Rick.”

Mark Johnson with a keeper

Steve and Dean at the world famous Dixie Crossroads

Lots of retirement news lately, including the following from Tom Crook (32): A remake of McHale’s Navy (Sorry, Jack!)?? L to R Phil Salinas, Jack McHale, Dave Galiyas, Mark Johnson (kneeling), Ted Campbell, Joe Krebes

M ”Tom Crook, 32 Co., plans to retire from government service in September 2022 after twenty years as a telecommunications engineer at the Joint Warfare Analysis Center (JWAC) in Dahlgren, VA. He retired from active duty in 2002 after serving on two subs, TINOSA (SSN 606) and PHILADELPHIA (SSN 690), teaching ME at USNA, and finishing at Naval Space Command. He is blissfully celebrating 33 years of marriage to Greta this May. They have three grown children that successfully completed homeschooling – Jonathan, an engineer in Dahlgren; Joseph, a ministry assistant in Chattanooga, and Deenalin, an elementary school teacher in King George, VA. He looks forward to new adventures as the LORD leads.”

“When two or three shall meet…”

Our former scribe and 40th reunion committee member Rett Rassmussen (21) reported the following: M ”The 40th Reunion Committee has been meeting monthly to prepare for another successful Class Reunion, to be held on Homecoming Weekend, October 27-30, 2022.

Led by chair Rich Clyborne (1), deputy chair Gene Whitney (31), and Goat One Jane Conley (7), the committee is planning a fun weekend of gathering, remembrance, and Go Navy spirit that only the “Class That Jack Built” can bring to the Yard. Events include Golf, Crab Feast, Yard tours and coffee reception, Memorial Service, Class Meeting, P-rade, post P-rade reception, company/team/club gatherings, Old Goat Run, Bike Ride, and tailgater at the Navy Football game (Beat Temple!).

The motley crew underway!

Looking good, 82! L to R Ted Campbell, Phil Salinas, Mark Johnson, Jack McHale, Dave Galiyas

Steve Kingston (2) sent in the following email and pic: M ”Checking in after the spring Christmas tree planting season. Loved the JAN-FEB 22 SHIPMATE 82 class news. I had a chance to catch up with Dean Studt (2) at the world 106 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’82: Is this: A. The New Hollywood Squares, B. The Brady Bunch Extended Family, or C. Your 40th reunion committee in a ZOOM meeting? (Hint: “if in doubt, Charlie out”)

82/83 CLASS NEWS Details are at the class website: http://1982.usnaclasses.net/.”

Well, that empties my mailbag for this edition of ’82 class news. Please do your part to fill up my inbox again. I count on your submissions!

When you receive this edition of Shipmate, our reunion will be just a few months away. It will also be near the start of another Navy football season. 2021/22 was a great year to be a Navy sports fan, with Navy winning 20 out of 24 in the annual Army-Navy Star Series competition!

Hoping for more of the same in 2022/23.

Keep cool, but you do have permission to wipe down!

As always, looking good ’82!

Mark

’83

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 21.33% Pres: LCDR Stephen L. Fischer, USN (Ret.) 31 Call Ct., Fredericksburg, VA 22405-2144 p: 540-840-7051 Vice Pres: Ms. Geraldine W. Santos Treas: Frank Vernet e: fgvernet@gmail.com Sec’y and Shipmate Contact: CAPT Chris Pietras, USN (Ret.) 9404 Jackson St., Burke, VA 22015 c: 860-885-9009; e: 83shipmate@gmail.com Facebook: USNA 1983 LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/83 Website: http://1983.usnaclasses.net

Happy Anniversary ’83. As I write this it is 39 years (and about 10 hours) since we graduated. I find it difficult to believe how quickly the time has passed; just 1 year until our 40th anniversary; a few months after that we will have our 40th reunion (October 6th – October 8th 2023), so by the time you read this olumn, “You’ll have 14 months to Class Formation. The uniform for the class formation is whatever you want, since no one will be in unform any longer (I think). The menu will be food and drink, and when you want more, you will not have to raise the pitcher over your head (plus our arms can’t lift as much any longer).” I truly hope to see many of us gather together, then and many times before then.

I’ll post one picture from 39 years ago, where shortly after we were commissioned I received my 1st salute as an Ensign and promptly turned over an 1883 Morgan Silver Dollar to my younger brother, Lance Corporal Greg Pietras, USMC. No doubt everyone has some great stories of their first salute.

1st Salute

Unbelievably the mailbag was overflowing this month, so I must hold off on using some items and pictures until the next column. Hopefully I don’t misplace the inputs from Scott Watson, Mark Hagerott, Joe Spruill and Darren Anderson. Plus pictures from the recent Sea, Air and Space conference, the reception at the Supe’s House, and the ’83 Bell dedication ceremony.

M Long time reader, first time writer…after 39 years, this is probably due…

On February 6, 2022, my father-in-law, Daniel H.W. Chun, received his Congressional Gold Medal honoring Chinese American WW II veterans. We are so proud of him and his service. Dan’s service to this country commenced on December 7, 1941 and ended with his discharge in December 1945 as a Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army. Dan was 1 of only 15 living veterans present at the Honolulu ceremony.

He qualified as a mortarman and expert rifle shot, serving in the Pacific theater during the island-hopping campaigns. As a nod to the Navy, he is most proud of his Shellback certificate, received when his troop transport ship, USS ZEILIN (APA-3), crossed the Equator transforming him from a Pollywog to a Shellback! Jon Yuen (14) and Alma Grocki ’81 (nee Lau) were presenters at the ceremony and John Croce (02) and Russ Grocki (’81) were also in attendance.

After graduation, I went nuke subs. I did my JO sea tour on a fast attack sub and shore tour at the training command, both at Pearl Harbor, before transitioning to the Navy Reserve in 1991 after the first 4 department head jobs offered were all as Engineering Officer on boats in either overhaul or new construction – I saw where my future was headed. I retired from the Navy Reserve in 2013 as a Captain after 5 command tours and one mobilization.

I also served for 20+ years as a Blue and Gold Officer; priorities sure are different nowadays with potential candidates.

I married my best friend, Lisa, in 2004 after proposing to her on T-Court in 2003 during our 20th reunion. I figured that was a good place to start my marriage as that is where I started my Navy career.

After 6 years in the private sector, I decided to continue my service by entering the public sector with Washington state government in 1997. I retired in December 2020 after serving in 8 different agencies and at the executive level in 6 of them including 3 tours as a Chief Information Officer. After a year-plus in retirement, I can highly encourage and recommend it.

Lisa is a practicing attorney in Honolulu, HI. The good news is she is able to work remotely and has been doing so since we were married – gotta love technology, when it works. She splits time between Washington and Hawaii.

During COVID, her scheduled 7-week stay in 2020 turned into 7 months due to all of the travel restrictions to Hawaii; and, yet, we are still married.

Now, I spend my time doing things I have put off for years while working; like my motorcycle trips around the country, house projects, actual hobbies, and, as Lisa’s personal chef. I split time between our homes in Washington and Hawaii. While in Hawaii, we spend time with John and Victoria Croce and Russ and Alma Grocki. Great friends always make the stays much more enjoyable.

As has been previously said throughout the updates, take the time to reach out to a classmate and reconnect. Remember; time, tide and formation waits for no one.

Pictures: Alumni: L2R Lisa & Steve Young; Russ & Alma Grocki; Jon and Sandra Yuen. NOTE: The wearing of USNA Aloha shirts was purely coincidental.

Classmates L2R: Jon Yuen (14); John Croce (02); .Steve Young (27) Dad and General: MG Clarence KK Chinn, USA (Ret) presents the Congressional Gold Medal to Daniel H.W. Chun Best – Steve Young, 27th Company

MATCHING GIFTS Call 410-295-4178 to find out how you can match your recent contribution.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 107

83/83 CLASS NEWS

Alumni

my stepmom’s stuff on a couple of occasions ...and especially for his wife, Marcela, the master logistician (and I mean it), assisting in a speed packing session for over 3 hours ON MOTHER’S DAY. We all love to give—as demonstrated by service to our country, if nothing else. It can be hard to ask for help. It was for me. I’m humbled by the responses and the giving from classmates of that precious thing called TIME. ’83 is A Class Act. We’re also a class with a lot of heart and I appreciate you ALL so much.

Semper Fi and Go Navy- Erica

Classmates

Dad and General

Roomies

The last item in the newz is an old one, that got lost in the mailbag (yeah I know an excuse, because how can an email be lost). This has been sitting in my inbox for nearly a full year - Sorry for the delay Erica.

Erica Ryder writes in: M This has been a time of transition, and I’ve been lucky enough to have several classmates or their family members assist me in relocating. I offer pictures as proof: Chronologically, in order of how long I’ve known them, we have Jay McGovern, both a Navy and a Seminole High classmate, who provided a strong back and a big pick-up (and several hours of his time) for an IKEA run for my stepmom’s new apartment in Celebration, FL. Then ye olde roommate, Ruth Voor, and her wife, Lisa, provided needed down time and a sunset boat ride my first week in Florida, and then an “assembly day” on all the IKEA furniture Jay carted to the afore- mentioned apartment, followed by fun at Disney Springs.

(Thanks to Lisa for the design assistance!)

Finally, a shout out to John Monahan for his daughter and son-in-law (Mary Grace and Mike Burke, both USNA ’18) helping me pack and haul 108 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

High School & Academy Classmates!

I will end with sad news: I share the much belated report of a death of a Classmate, John Lovering, Jr, 5th company.

John Lester Lovering Jr., Captain, U.S. Navy, retired, a resident of Virginia Beach, went to be with our LORD on February 13, 2020. John was the beloved son of the late John Lester Lovering Sr. of Boston, MA and Elizabeth Lovering of Newport, RI. John was born on September 26, 1961 in Boston, MA. His lifelong love of the sea began during his teen years on Cape Cod. He

graduated from Tabor Academy in Marion, MA, where he was on the sailing and wrestling teams. Following his commissioning from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1983 with a degree in marine engineering, he was assigned to submarines. He proudly served on active duty for 24 years, guided by love of God and country.

Assignments included: Engineering Liaison Officer, USS BOSTON (SSN-703); Command and Control Officer, Submarine Group Seven (Yokosuka, Japan); Engineer, USS JACKSONVILLE (SSN-699); Executive Officer, USS PENNSYLVANIA (SSBN-735); Commanding Officer, USS HAMPTON (SSN-767). After command, he served as Staff Operations and Plans Officer, U.S. Second Fleet, and Submarine Warfare Officer, Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

John is survived by his beloved mother, Elizabeth, two sons John Lester Lovering III (Kristen) and Walter Henry Lovering, and former wife Barbara MacFarland Lovering. The joy of his life was family, with whom he shared his many talents and interests: playing beautiful piano music, chess, reading, writing, fishing, and sailing. John’s faith in God and service to country are the banners of his love.

All who were touched by his heart will never be the same. We will love and miss him forever and know he is now resting in peace.

A memorial service to celebrate John’s life was held on Friday, February 28 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at Great Neck Baptist Church, 1020 General Jackson Drive, Virginia Beach, VA. He was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Contributions may be made to Gideons International or the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society.

Upcoming dates to remember/consider: *Navy vs Notre Dame: August 26, 2023 in Dublin *Our 40th Reunion: weekend of 6-7-8 October 2023 *Class Cruise: Summer 2024 With our reunion approaching I ask that each company find their missing Companymates, those we graduated with and those that left before graduation – if they were there on the 6th of July we will always be Classmates. So find your roommates from Plebe Summer and re-connect them to the Class: have them update the usna.com alumni contact info (https://www.usna.com /login?bm=1517605031) so they receive Shipmate and receive all classmail emails; connect with Steve Fischer (reach out to Steve at slf83usna@gmail.com) and get on his monthly e-mail list; activate their https:// myusna.com/ profile; and join the class Facebook group page: https://www.facebook.com /groups/191501360861460

83/84 CLASS NEWS Andy Hale and Dave Hall recently took full advantage of Tony Mauro’s open invitation for company mates to visit Boynton Beach, FL.

Please reach out and touch your loved ones, reconnect with an old friend or roommate, whether in person or on the phone or just email or knock on a door – Life is fragile.

Just do it today, as we can never count on the opportunity to be able to do so tomorrow.

Got Newz? send to: 83shipmate@gmail.com Once a classmate, always a classmate.

1983 - A Class Act!

’84

Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 7.77% 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

To Do List by Scott Ripley: Get a Clean Bill of Health from Doc Email Monahan an update Pick up Dry Cleaning Remember the thing someone said needed doing or was it undoing (THINK, MAN!) So Scott sends: “It’s been a quite a rollercoaster ride since the last time I wrote but I finally have some positive news to share.

Sparing the details, I really want our classmates and shipmates (84 plus or minus 3) to know how much their support has meant to me. I’m convinced I wouldn’t be where I am without it. I was stunned, inspired, overwhelmed, and fortified by their encouragement.”

Scott is still in San Diego serving as Chair of the Department of Theater at University of San Diego but has yet to revive his role as a cross-dressing Russian Czar to the dismay of an art-starved public.

My Plebe Summer roommate Bob Gass and wife Janette have lived in Rhode Island for nearly 30 years with Bob handling “shore jobs” mostly related to teaching new officers in Newport. Their son, Annan, graduated from Norwich University, the Military College of Vermont, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree and a commission in the United States Air Force.

Janette and Bob with 2ndLt Gass

Bob is putting EE300 knowledge and skills to good use for a low-voltage technology infrastructure implementation company called BlackBox. “In my job interview, I stated ‘I do not need an empire, simply a wagon to pull.’

They gave me an empire. I have a department of global multisite deployment specialists/project managers who all think they work for me where the truth is, I work for them.’

EE300 changed everything for everyone.

Bill Cebak’s daughter Duke NROTC, began flight training where Legends Train, Corpus Crisiti TX, this Spring.

Mel Hamner retired in December ’21, hasn’t run out of money nor has his wife run out of patience. Mel reports The Academy is gearing up for a full-fledged Commissioning Week and The Hamner’s are taking a vacation as their house earns some rent from Class of ’22 parents who didn’t spend a dime on their kid’s college tuition.

The Fighting Fourteenth sends a picture from the slopes in Park City Utah, sporting their 14th CO game jerseys which made the snowboarders envious and the pure skiers rethink their high end, European cut ensembles. Pictured from left to right are: Rob Froncillo, Tom Campbell, Brad Drummond, Mike Allman and Mark Openshaw.

From what I could glean from hours spent in the records department, Mark Openshaw is a Marine Construction Manager with Manson Construction Co. in Saint Johns, Florida, representing us well - providing construction and estimating management for marine construction projects in the Gulf region, the US east coast, Caribbean, Central and South America.

Tony Mauro, Andy Hale and Dave Hall

Lisa and J.D Cunningham I have been making efforts to visit old 23rd company shipmates in retirement, criss-crossing America like jet pilots. First trip was to CA to see Kevin Astrup and Family and a follow on visit to Jimmy and Tammy Collins in Indiana and Joel and Grace Bishop in Florida Keys.

Cunninghams and Astrups

HONOR CHAIRS Remember or Honor a loved one in Alumni Hall. Call 410-295-4100 for more information.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 109

84/85 CLASS NEWS

Carradinis and Bishops in Tulsa

Jimmy and JD

Joel Bishop wrote about JD’s visit as well.

“Lisa and J.D. visited Islamorada in February.

My wife of 36 plus years, Grace, and I have been here the last three years. We will be here for another two years until I retire, God willing, from flying at UPS after 30 years. I have been flying out of Miami for about half of my career at UPS. After retirement our plan is to move to Texas, home for both Grace and I. We have moved over 20 times, thanks in part to 8 years on active duty and in part by choice afforded with airline flying. Moving from The Keys in retirement is getting it backwards from most people’s perspective, but living close to family in our “golden years” is important to us. Our house is always open to our friends so come on down.

The 2022 Great Class Challenge was held in May. The Class of 1984 led all Navy Classes in donor numbers and placed second in participation percentage. The Challenge raised over $2.2 Million total I received a few pictures from Commissioning Week this morning and celebrate the children of our Classmates graduating from the Academy and wish them Adventure.

The Shepherds

Kathleen Murray, Toni Chase, Deborah Sheppard, Lisa Skinner and The Grads

Enjoy the rest of Summer and visit the Old Town in Fall some football weekend.

’85

Life Membership: 95% Donor Participation: 9.25% Lisa and Sarah Skinner

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

Cunninghams and Bishops in Florida Keys

We also had a visit from my Plebe Year roommate George Carradini and classmate Kasey in Tulsa while we visited our son in Tulsa in February ’20.

110 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

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86/87 CLASS NEWS

’86

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 4.03% 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

’87

Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 4.00% Pres: Jim Matheson e: jmatheson@1987.usna.com Shipmate columnist: Robert Pinataro 9953 Watermark Ln. W., Jacksonville, FL 32256 p: 770-722-6373; e: rpinataro87@gmail.com Website: www.usna87.org

Hello Classmates, As I write this just days before June Week it is interesting to contemplate that you won’t read this until July or August. These next two months will reveal much about the course of war in Ukraine, inflation, recession, and political division. I pray that despite the world happening around us that these ensuing months have brought you and yours health, happiness, prosperity and peace.

LCDR John Hair shared a great story of breaking back into the USNR in 2020!

M “After 21 years since I departed the Navy reserves (and about a year and a half of processing), I was finally able to return to the Naval Reserves. On 5/8/2020, VADM Timothy White administered the oath to me in his office as Fleet Cyber Commander for my re-entry into the USNR (as a LCDR). Also in attendance were members of his staff including, RADM James Butler, RADM Michael Vernazza and RADM John Watkins. VADM White did an exceptional job and commented that he appreciated me asking him to do the ceremony because it was a welcome “positive” thing in the midst of the Pandemic.

It was great to talk with him after the ceremony and share what both of us had been doing since graduation.

In January 2021, I joined a NCIS Reserve unit out of Quantico (nothing happened fast during the Pandemic). I am very thankful to have this opportunity especially now that I am within a few years of retiring from the FBI.” ~LCDR John Hair

VADM Tim White administering the oath of office to LCDR John Hair in May 2020!

And Tim Wolf shared another update that shows VADM Tim White is everywhere this month!

M The Upper Midwest Chapter of the USNA Alumni Association hosted a wonderful event for alumni and community friends on 5 May at the Minneapolis Club. The primary program was a panel discussion on the theme: of “Cyber Security Threats and Mitigation: The Intersection of National and Corporate Security.” We were fortunate to have classmate TJ White (VADM, USN (Ret.)) come to Minnesota to be a panelist and lend his meaningful insights to the discussion.

Classmates Jon Jewell and Dan Nygaard attended and we had a pre-35th reunion dinner together. Go Navy!

See you soon, Tim Wolf

L to R: Dan Nygaard, Jon Jewell, Tim White and Tim Wolf mini 35th Company reunion at the Minneaopolis Club

And now for a word from Jim Matheson with tremendous thanks for his 35 years of service as our Class President!

M “Hello ‘87, We’re just under four months to our 35th Reunion which is going to be a fabulously fun time. I want to share my immense gratitude to our Reunion Planning Committee for their amazing teamwork and dedication! Now, it is time for you all to do your part - signup and attend, and we’ve made that super easy for you: OUR CLASS REGISTRATION SITE IS NOW LIVE at https://signupnow.events/USNA1987 This email will provide everything you need to know to register for the Reunion, signup for the events you’ll attend and select the SWAG you’d like (and yes, pay for it all). It takes less

than 10 minutes to do this, but you may want to take some time to familiarize yourself with the gouge in this email, understand the different options and commit the Reunion SOE to memory for chow call purposes!

Please note that we are using the same site as we did for our 30th Reunion, so when you register you can skip directly to the login if you remember your previous login credentials from 5 years ago. If you use the same email (the system will know), but can’t remember your password, it will be sent to you. You can also just completely start a new registration from scratch.

VERY IMPORTANT: The Classmate Reunion Fee is tiered to drive timely decisions and commitments. Time, tide, formation and our reunion registration wait for no one! *$87 for EARLY BIRDS who register before midnight ET on 6/5; *$100 for MAIN registration 6/6 to 7/31; *$187 LATE registration beginning 8/1 (don’t be this Classmate, please!)

Some Gouge from our Registration Beta testers (aka your Reunion Committee): *Clicking on “View the entire schedule” in the SOE is easier that going thru day-by-day. *Once you log in, first ADD GUESTS to include your entourage. You’ll then be able to select specific options/events by person as you proceed. *For CLASSMATES MARRIED TO CLASSMATES: We need each of you to please create your own registration with your own company designation, and also pay you own Classmate Reunion Fee. Badging, SWAG, and Company wrangling are predicated on doing this. *The Reunion Fee covers all the organizing overhead of the Reunion. It also gets each Classmate one (1) ‘87 crested Yeti Rambler Mug and other fun and sundry Class SWAG provided at check-in. *There is optional SWAG that you can order during the registration process. These items will be available to be picked up at the Reunion Check In with your other provided SWAG: -Option to order extra Yeti mug(s) in addition to the one included for each registered Classmate; -New, full-color version of our enormously popular ’87 Chico SWAG bag.

Yes they’re back, but only as a special order item on the reunion registration site; -Class of ’87 bourbon and pint glasses which are quite classy! *For those NOT able to attend the reunion, we haven’t forgotten you! There is a “Reunion in a Box” option. It covers the shipping of the main reunion SWAG to you and any of the additional a la carte SWAG that you order. If you order items that necessitate an additional box, we’ll reach out to you to make arrangements. *There is an optional $19.87 Class Donation option that goes to support Class operations

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 111

87/88 CLASS NEWS and is one of the few ways we have to raise funds for our Class activities. Please donate! *Note the chance to buy a raffle ticket for an honor chair at the USNI Auditorium and buy a ticket, or two, or ten! This chair is in the USNI auditorium where all the Friday morning Class events will be held and can be named in honor of whomever the winner chooses. The winner will be announced at the Class meeting and NEED NOT be present to win. *If you’d like to volunteer to help with registration, there is an option to select this as well – this is a great and fun way to support the Reunion, and to meet and greet Classmates!

Please know that your Reunion Committee did yeoman’s work in providing value for every event this year. Given the significant inflationary pressures from our vendors, we spent considerable time discussing and negotiating menu options and pricing. As a result, the Friday night reception at the Graduate Hotel is a cash bar but there is an option to advance purchase drink tickets at $8 to help speed along the line at the bar.

Finally, in the spirit of helping offset any potential financial pressures from attending, you’ll note at check-out the option to spread your charges into monthly installment payments.

Yes, You Also Need To Buy A Game Ticket!

YOU MUST PURCHASE A GAME TICKET FROM NAAA TO ENTER THE TAILGATER. The Tailgater is located inside the stadium in Class Ring North West (Navy side) and the Class of ‘53 Pavilion.

Go to: navysports and use code 1987 for the class block for sit down seats (sections C or D) or buy standing room only tickets. Standing Room tix = $30; Seats in Class Block = $50 Contact NAAA at 800-US4-NAVY (800874-6289) for more info.

Still Need More SWAG? As always, there is other ’87 SWAG available on our class site (https://usna87.com/ ships-store/) that will be shipped directly to your home. The 35th reunion t-shirt will be announced once the art is finalized and announced and will be included in the Ship’s Store for individual purchase.

In the interim, check out this blazingly cool bowling shirt which you can order: https://www. bowlingconcepts.com/ navy-academy-reunion-shirt-87.

These will be batch produced and shipped to your door in late August in time for the Reunion. The ordering deadline for the bowling shirt is July 15th!

Reunion Team Comms We will be utilizing a mobile texting service to facilitate sharing reunion reminders and breaking news. Should you desire NOT to receive those, there will be a simple opt-out mechanism 112 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’87 at ICOF in May

that you can select when you receive your first text, or any time thereafter.

You can expect fairly regular (perhaps even annoyingly regular) emails over the next four months leading up to the Reunion. All the most current details will be posted on the class website at www.usna87.com to keep you in the loop. If you have any questions, ideas or concerns, please contact us at usna1987reunion@ gmail.com.

In Other News - Our Class Bylaws Have Been Adopted I’d like to thank everyone for taking the time to review and vote on the Class of ’87 Bylaws and those that provided clarifying language suggestions. I am happy to announce that we passed the 15% threshold for voting and was pleasantly surprised that 100% of voting classmates were in favor of our new Bylaws.

Thanks again to our esteemed GEC for their hard work in crafting such thoughtful and sensible Bylaws! We have now officially moved into the Nomination & Election Process so please ping me directly if you have interest and/or questions about running for Class Office. We’ll be following up with those of you who indicated as such in the poll.

Go Navy!”

Jim Jim Matheson President, USNA Class of 1987 jmatheson@1987.usna.com (m) 617-510-9264 Enjoy the rest of the Summer and please send your news to rpinataro87@gmail.com with “SHIPMATE” in the subject line.

’88

Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 4.62% Pres: Jim Schwab c: 714-787-6920; e: jschwab@crimstonepartners.com Vice Pres: Henry Stoever w: 301-787-9700; e: henry.stoever@gmail.com Sec’y: Sara Salas Wickard c: 757-589-0678; e: swickard88@gmail.com Website: www.usna.com “find my class”

’88 “Courage, Valor, Integrity”, USS STOUT (DDG55) Happy Independence Day. God bless America. r/ Sara Kim Smith (Chuck Smith) M Hello Sara, I enjoy reading the Shipmate, which prompted me to share a photo and simple story about an event held on April 2nd, 2022. Chuck Smith (USNA class of 1988) along with his family, own CrossFit Krypton in Chesapeake, VA and were honored to hold the 6th annual “Krypton Games - Compete for a Cure” last week which benefits St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. The event has raised over $300,000 in the past and once the totals are tallied, we hope to have raised over $120,000. this year alone. Our oldest son, Ben, who won the CrossFit Games in 2015 and named Fittest On Earth, felt he was given a platform to help those in need. Ben programs for the 360 athletes who participated in the competition which was held in the new Virginia Beach Sports Center.

Photo is Chuck with one of his three granddaughters and then a photo of Ben during the athlete briefing. Chuck isn’t one to reach out,

88/88 CLASS NEWS so I thought I would! Proud wife, mom and nana, Kimberly Smith

Chuck Smith and one of his three granddaughters

Ben Smith during the athlete briefing

Krypton Games – Compete for the Cure

Ted Peck: 50 Class of ‘88 submariners contributed to the renovation of the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and USS BOWFIN located at Pearl Harbor, resulting in the Class being memorialized with a plaque.

Rob Grasse: M “I realized it’s been almost 34 years since we all graduated, and realized it was high time for me to reconnect with my Class of ’88 Shipmates before the 35th reunion net year. I retired in 2013 from the Navy Reserve, and I’m currently working as a Program Manager for Astronautics Corporation of America near my Podunk in Milwaukee, Wisconsin – hit me up if you need some Sierra-Hotel aircraft displays or navigation equipment (r.grasse@astro nautics.com). I’m still married to “Mary Kelly ‘87’s sister,” Kathy, and we have two teenage kids who are looking at colleges now – including the service academies – God love them…

Back in October of 2021 I was honored and saddened to return to Annapolis with Kathy to attend my sponsor father, MU1 Dennis Blair’s memorial ceremony in the Naval Academy Chapel. The experience brought back a flood of memories as I spent quality in-person time with loyal roommates and my ever-true sponsor Mom, Martha Blair and her family.

That reunion reminded me that staying connected is in our Naval Academy DNA, and of many times when I sang the third verse of Navy Blue & Gold with the Glee Club: “Four years together by the Bay, Where Severn joins the tide, Then by the Service called away, We’re scattered far and wide; But still when two or three shall meet, And old tales be retold, From low to highest in the Fleet, We’ll pledge the Blue and Gold.” The Naval Academy has bound us individuals as an unbreakable family, even after 34 years. Martha and Denny Blair made such a lasting impression on me, and all of my company mates that they adopted from 1985 to 1888, that we never lost touch. Denny Blair was a trusted reach-back mentor for my entire career, and heck, Ma Blair even poddy trained both of Kathy and my kids while Kathy was stationed at the Pentagon and I was travelling for EUCOM. For those of you who remember Denny and care to memorialize him, his gofundme page is still active under Dennis K Blair Stageworks Memorial Fund. I can’t say enough for the Naval Academy sponsorship program, and I’m proud to say that Ma Blair is back in the sponsorship business, sponsoring two Wisconsin midshipmen that I was a Blue and Gold Officer for last year. Bill Macchione is stationed at NAWCAD in St. Indigoes MD as a Portfolio Manager for UAS’s and ISR, and Rick Canedo is a crazed former Marine who now works for the Department of State as a Foreign Service Officer in Conakry, Guinea.

My Navy family came back together for a short time in October to honor Denny Blair.

Here’s a trip down memory lane, back to second class year, to beat the bushes to see if any of “The Spa” from Dirty 30’s Class of 1988 will be available for next year’s reunion (besides Chris Dirks, God rest his soul). ‘Looking forward to retelling old tales next year. Until then, BEAT ARMY! Rob Grasse rgrasse1@wi.rr.com (262) 424-9029”

Rob and Denny after a great meal with Blue and Gold Officers in 2016 at The Narrows, MD.

Bill Macchione, Martha Blair, Rob Grasse, and Rick Canedo (“Ma Blair’s Dirty 30 Boys”) October 2021

(L to R) Todd MacDonald, Bill Macchione, Rick Canedo, Keith Beals, Terry Moran, Rob Grasse, and Chris Dirks

Dr. Myron Hall (36th co) and he’s running for U.S. Senate (California - R)

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 113

89/89 CLASS NEWS

’89

Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 6.37% Pres: Denise (Shorey) Willert 1700 Pilgrims Mews, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 h: 757-464-0429, c: 757-238-1102 e: denise.willert@1989.usna.com Corr Sec’y: Scott McFadden e: jsmcfadd1@nycap.rr.com; 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

Greetings, 89ers!

The dog days of summer have rapidly descended upon us! Who’s ready for some fall Navy football?

Lots of updates, so let’s get to it.

First, from Roger Suro: M I retired as a Brig Gen in the Air Force Reserve effective 30 June 2022. I cross commissioned and flew A-10s while active duty and then joined the Air Force Reserve to finish my career.

My grandson, Henry, is ready for the class of 2042!! It has been an honor to serve and teach the USAF how to say Go Navy, Beat Air Force!!

Next, we have Steven “Cookie” Cook, who’s been doing a little rock climbing in his free time.

M “Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro with my daughter, Alexis. She is married and 27 years old. It was a blast and the best father/daughter quality time ever (8 days in a tent). The final summit started at 16,000’ and 1AM. It was -5 degrees F and blowing 20-30 knots. We summitted right at sunrise, it was beautiful (19,400’). I’ve attached a few pictures, one at the summit holding our class flag.”

114 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Cookie and Alexis Conquering Mt. Kilimanjaro

Mike and Lisa Leschensky tying the knot in Greece

Wow, Cookie, just wow. Congratulations to you and Alexis on accomplishing such an awesome feat!

Next up is Mike Leschinsky of 36th Company:

Congratulations, Mike and Lisa! Welcome to the Class of 1989, Lisa!

Cathy Masar checks in:

M Hey 89!

Late entry here, but better late than never.

After being stymied by Covid travel restrictions in 2020, Lisa and I finally were able to tie the knot last May in Santorini, Greece. Lisa is a Pulmonary Critical Care Nurse Practitioner who works at three (sometimes four) ICUs here in Norfolk and Virginia Beach; and as you can imagine, these past two years have been very trying for her. The wedding was a nice respite even if it took an extra year. Up to the last minute, we were worried that it wasn’t going to happen, again as it wasn’t till the day we boarded our flight, that Greece opened up to vaccinated non-EU tourists. So, let’s just say the trip wasn’t worry free. After a few days in Athens and getting to visit a practically deserted Acropolis which was eerie in itself with no one there, we were able to spend 5 crowd free days in Santorini. As you can see from the photos, the weather was perfect! We finished our trip with a stop in Crete which has me thinking of trying to find a GS job in Souda Bay! We didn’t get to come for a Navy Football game this past year but hope to run into folks for the coming season. Go Navy!

M Here are a few pics from Everest Base Camp trek. Our group of 21 started on 19 April in Kathmandu (4377ft), flew into Lukla (9833ft) and trekked to Everest Base Camp (17,600ft) over the next 7 days. I did get one “Go Navy, Beat Army” shout out from a hiker descending as she saw my USNA gear (before I had to bundle up with the puffy jacket)!

The hardest part was probably the return hike- twice as fast, longer daily distances, everyone sick with either cough, altitude, or stomach issues and making sure our tired muscles didn’t result in a fall. Out of the 21 we started with, 12 of us were able to hike the entire up and back. It was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done. All good practice for hiking Kilimanjaro in August 2022 with classmates Bruce (and Karen) Black and Gerry Schaefer. Summit should be on 10 August. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers!

Go Navy!

Cathy

89/90 CLASS NEWS

Cathy Masar conquering Mt. Everest

Lastly (but not leastly), class President, Denise (Shorey) Willert reports in: M Hi friends! Can you believe it’s AUGUST already??

I’d like to start with a huge congratulations to Rear Admiral Sara (Applegarth) “Clutch” Joyner for her appointment to the grade of vice admiral and assignment as director, Force Structure, Resources and Assessment, J-8, Joint Staff, Washington, D.C. Rear Admiral Joyner is currently serving as chief of legislative affairs, Washington, D.C. Congratulations, shipmate, may more great adventures lie ahead for you and your family!

Many congratulations also go out to classmates who have recent college graduates, to include the children of Dave Bernhardt, Shawn Duffy, Andy Jarrett, Tom Robertson and Craig Wilson who graduated with USNA’s Class of 2022 in May. Andy Jarrett’s son, Will, was even the top graduate of the class! Our future is bright with these phenomenal young people at the helm.

On an exciting note, our own Cathy Masar recently hiked to the base camp of Mount Everest a few months back. Cathy, as I’m sure many of us have this adventure on our bucket list ... we need details and photos!

Additionally, a gathering of female classmates, led by Kristin (Reynolds) Goodrich, came together in July for a white-water rafting trip in Colorado. Bryn (Johnson) Narcisian, Rita Buffington, Kim (Feltault) Copenhaver and Debbie Baus committed to participate, with strong interest from several other ladies. If we’re lucky, we’ll see some action photos of that trip in the next Shipmate issue.

My own family and I had the pleasure to visit Normandy, France in the spring, with stops in Rouen, Honfleur, Dieppe, Bayeux, SainteMere-Eglise, and Mont St-Michel (the benefit of living in Northwest Germany, just a six-hour drive away). What an honor to visit the American Cemetery, to stand on the sands of Omaha Beach, and to reflect upon those who sacrificed everything for their fellow man. I’m sure many of you have visited these hallowed sites and can agree that it is truly a humbling experience.

Please accept a quick note to give a huge THANK YOU to all who participated in this year’s Great Class Challenge, sponsored in May by the Alumni Foundation. Amazingly, 230 donors — almost 23 percent of the class — chose to participate. We secured a strong eighth place finish and significantly raised our participation number as compared to last year, with monies raised from this challenge to go directly to our class fundraising goal of $100K for the new Alumni Center. At this giving point, we’ll be memorialized as an outstanding class along a beautiful walkway outside the new building, which is due to be completed in 2023.

To this end, any and all Alumni Center contributions are appreciated! A class of 1989 pledge form may be found here: www.bit.ly/ 89AAFpledge.

An update on our election committee — the board has been constituted, and consists of Gerry Schaefer (chairman), Ed McGovern, and John Wolf. These gentlemen are currently soliciting nominations for three positions of our seven-member class board, to be voted upon this fall. Those chosen will serve six-year terms beginning in January 2023. We need you! If you have any questions, or think you might be interested in running, please reach out to the election board and they will absolutely be able to help.

As I’m typing this update on Memorial Day weekend, I’d like to leave you with the names of our classmates who died in service to our great nation. Ernie Greppin, Bob Forwalder, Randy O’Neill, Rob Vogel, Bill Watkins and Brett Bekken — may you lift a toast in their memory the next time you gather with friends and shipmates.

Until we meet again, may you be happy, healthy ... and ready for Navy football season!

Now’s the Time, 89!

Fondly, Denise

The Willerts on holiday in France

That’s it for this month!

Beat Army!

Scott

’90

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 3.76% 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

It’s Monday, May 30. Memorial Day, and the 32nd anniversary of our graduation. And – even though you’re reading this in August, or later – I thought it would be a fitting opportunity for us to pause and remember those classmates who have gone before us, including those who gave their lives in service to our nation. You can find listings of three of our classmates who gave that ultimate sacrifice – Terence Clark, Robert Wood, and Kelly Mackey - and other alumni on the independently maintained USNA Virtual Memorial Hall website (usnamemorialhall.org). The site is built and updated based on inputs from family, classmates, friends, and fellow servicemembers.

If you have entries, memories, edits, or corrections to add, please contact them via the website. Thanks to Bill Garrity for bringing this to our attention.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 115

90/90 CLASS NEWS Since we haven’t received any email updates, let’s jump to the Facebook page for some recent highlights and announcements.

Speaking of Memorial Day, Duane Cordrey shared the following:

M “I recently gave a tour of the Naval Academy for the Mount Airy and Damascus American Legion baseball teams, ahead of the Navy-Lafayette Baseball Game. I took them to Preble Hall Museum and made sure to point out the class ring of our gone but never forgotten classmate, Andy Morrell. Peace be with him and the many family and friends he leaves behind.”

Thanks, Duane, for honoring Andy.

A recent promotion to celebrate: MajGen Brian Cavanaugh was selected for promotion to Lieutenant General!

Congratulations on the third star, Marine!

Wyman Howard’s wife Sarah made us aware of a new podcast on “Adaptability and Naval Special Warfare” from the Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership. “What are the challenges faced by the United States and its allies in facing irregular statecraft and operations in the gray zone? How do US “frogmen” shift back to their roots? How important is adaptability to our profession as naval warriors? What are the core elements of NSW’s ongoing transformation? How does artificial intelligence and cyber fit into the SEAL teams? RADM Hugh Wyman Howard, USN, is a fourth generation Naval Officer and a 1990 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. He is a SEAL officer who commands Naval Special Warfare Command.

He has commanded at all levels of Special Operations, including service as commanding officer of Naval Special Warfare Development Group.

He holds several masters degrees, 116 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

plus a Professional Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Business Strategy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and is an Eagle Scout.”

The May 9 podcast can be found at https://radiostockdale.transistor.fm/episodes/ From Chris Rosen: M “Great catching up with my Plebe year roommate, Brian Hoyt. Haven’t seen him in over 30 years! So many great stories! I think he looks about the same today as he did back then – but I don’t - LOL. Glad to be able to see him while passing through Columbus, OH. (As you can see, we got caught in a bit of rain.)”

Congrats, Paige! Joe McDonald also posted that they are house hunting near Crozet, a little west of Charlottesville.

Pete Clarke shared a great picture with Mike Burns and Steve Tazza, attending an “Our Community Salutes” recognition ceremony in Vorhees, NJ from early May. Our Community Salutes is national nonprofit organization that supports high school seniors enlisting in the U.S. Armed Services after graduation with recognition, networking, education, and community support. Way to represent, ’90!

From Steve Williams: M “Picked up a 22-year-old Road King a few months back to add to the collection, after some upgrades, from a dealer in Bloomsburg, PA. Halfway to my house at a red light in Tamaqua, PA, (90 miles away), a fuel line blew an O ring. The dealer came out and picked it up. Luckily, Anne was following me in the Jeep, hopped in and noticed that we hit the best temperature – 90° F! – then stopped at a brew fest and was awarded the Top SWO belt!

Always find a bright side. As a side note, another Harley rider stopped & offered aid outside USNA grads, Harley riders are the best!!”

From Paige McDonald: M “Hi Class! I rarely post, but I just received notice that I was awarded promotion to Associate Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership and tenure at George Washington University. I know in my heart that this achievement is only possible because of the values and ethics instilled in me at USNA. I will forever be grateful that the US Navy took a chance on a young 18-year-old from a small town in Virginia. Go Navy! Go ’90!”

Finally, let’s all celebrate with Mike Pestorius on his recent appearance on “The Price is Right” (season 50, episode 156), and on winning a NEW CAR! Of course, Tony San Jose one-upped him long ago, wearing his USNA gray sweatshirt when he won HIS new car from the original, Bob Barker!

90/92 CLASS NEWS Thank you all for the updates and photos on Facebook. Classmates, remember to send your updates for this column via the shipmate1990@ gmail mailbox to let us know what’s going on in your life and career!

’91

Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 3.59% Pres: Evan Barnet p: 203-249-0071; e: evan@USNA91.info Admin Vice Pres: Julie Shank p: 858-663-9852; e: julie@USNA91.info Exec Vice Pres: Mike Rapp Sec’y and Shipmate Contact: Sue (Slaven) Macaluso p: 631-365-2070; e: sue@usna91.info Treas: Jen Coleman 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

Congratulations to Our Newest Class Officers!

The class election results are in! We would like to congratulate the newest officers in our class: Mike Rapp as Executive Vice President, Ana Kreinsieck as Administrative Vice President and Jen Coleman as Treasurer…. Their terms of office are four years, and each position has a specific function, according to our bylaws: The Executive Vice President shall: a) Succeed to the office of Acting President in the event of a vacancy in that office, or in the incapacity of the President to perform his duties. In the absence of the President, the Executive Vice President shall chair the Executive Committee; b) Supervise the execution of the Class Plan and its annexes; and c) Be responsible for the “Social” section of the Class Plan.

The Administrative Vice President shall: a) Succeed to the office of Executive Vice President in the event of a vacancy in that office; b) Assemble, update and publish the Class Plan; c) Preside at all Annual and Special Meetings of the Class when the President and the Executive Vice President are absent; d) Be responsible for the “Administrative” section of the Class Plan; and e) Be responsible for the “Communications” section of the Class Plan, to include maintaining a Class Registry, and appropriate e-mail address listings.

The Treasurer/Class Fundraiser shall:

a) Be responsible for the general financial activity of the Class, under the direction of the Executive Committee; b) Manage and account for all operating finds belonging to the Class, except for finds controlled by representatives appointed by the President, with the approval of the Executive Committee; c) Be responsible for preparation of the “Operating Funds Budget and Finance” section of the Class Plan; d) Coordinate all Class Fundraising activities with the USNAF and; e) Be bonded for such amount as the Executive Committee may determine.

We would also like to thank Morgan Miller, Brian Banks and Todd Troha for throwing their hats in the ring. There are plenty of other opportunities for them to be involved in other areas in the coming years – and we thank you for that!

A “big thanks” also goes out to the Nominating Committee, led by Craig Benson, and included Mike Kuypers, Chris Lockett, Eric Harris and Alden Mills, who put together the slate by reaching out and spending time finding those available and willing to serve our class.

Great job!

As Evan stated, it takes about 10% of us to run the class after graduation. We have a great group of classmates with fresh ideas and thoughts on helping to keep us connected, gathering, and relevant. If you haven’t thought about it, please reach out to help find ways to get engaged or put together an event that brings our classmates together. We have needs in the company and regional rep areas. The role of President will be coming up for election at the end of the year as well. We are actively looking for a Nominating Committee of four people along with a chair. Reach out to be a part of it!

USNA Class of 1991 Represents!

The Annapolis Alumni chapter, run by Scott Shepard and Mike Rapp, gathered at McGarvey’s for its monthly social on May 12.

Attendance was strong – but no class had a better showing than 91!

91 in the House, representing at Annapolis Chapter McGarvey’s event on 12 May 22: Mike Rapp, Paul Diedrich, Jensin Sommer, Gib Armstrong, Scott Shepard, Stan Krasovic.

“THE HELM” Hope everyone is enjoying the summer! We have some great events coming up to reconnect and share some great stories. The football season is going to be full of great tailgaters.

If anyone is having classmate get togethers please let us know so we can help bring more together. Keep the pictures coming in!

Thanks again to the new class officers and those that volunteered. A big thank you to Ray, Mike, and Julie for all your efforts to support the class over the last few years. It was great working with you and ’91 thanks you!

If you have the time, please look to get involved in our class operations. Many hands make light work…Go Navy!...Evan sends….

’92

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 8.06% Pres: Creighton Armstrong e: Creighton.Armstrong@am.jll.com Corr Sec’ys: David Ornstein and Jerry Deren e: USNA1992ClassUpdate@gmail.com Website: www.usna92.com

‘92, Firstly, we have the sad duty to note the passing of classmate Kib O’Balle. Please see the “Last Call” section of this Shipmate for a tribute to Kib. He will be among those whom we celebrate during the class memorial service at our upcoming reunion.

This is the last time we will be coming to you in this space before we have the opportunity to reunite in person on the weekend of September 9th through 11th. As previously promulgated in this space, the order of the day is to go to: www.SignUpNow.Events (look for “USNA 92 Class Reunion”) and get registered, if you have not already done so. Please keep a weather eye on the class pages on Facebook and on LinkedIn for any late-breaking developments And to warm up to the reunion in style, another big BZ to us for a strong performance in the Naval Academy Foundation’s 2022 Great Class Challenge. This event took the place of the previous All-Academy Challenge in which we had acquitted ourselves well last year, but we took a big leap forward this year, besting not only the rest of our decade, but every class that’s graduated after us. We placed #6 overall (behind two classes from the 1960s, two from the 70’s, and one from the 80s.). Our participation rate was 27%, which means we just need 55% more to step up next year and make it 92% by ’92. We also came in #3 on the “Improvement Leaderboard,” more than doubling our participation rate from last year and adding more than 100 participants, which was more growth in participant count than any other class!

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 117

92/92 CLASS NEWS ’92 got in on ‘22’s Commissioning Week celebration when a handful of classmates rendezvoused at the Commissioning Week home rented by Jay Joyce. Jay’s son Jack, is graduating and looking forward to some laid-back TAD before reporting for BUDS in early 2023.

Hoisting one to honor ’22: Dave Lillefloren, Dr. Jay Joyce, Jerry Deren, Andy Lynch, Jay Antonelli, Steve Gordon, Glen Viado

And former Blue Angel Jerry Deren took in the Blues’ practice show with Luis Nicalao and Jay Joyce.

Luis Nicalao, Jerry Deren & Jay Joyce. JD declined to put the blue-and-gold flightsuit back on for the occasion

Bill Bloszisnky can’t make it to the reunion, but kindly shares some poignant reflections on the occasion of our 30th anniversary: M It seems almost not possible that 30 years ago, we all walked up onto that stage and shook the hand of President George Herbert Walker Bush, were handed our diplomas by Admiral Thomas Lynch (Roger Staubach’s Center) and walked off the stage looking forward to our first duty stations. I reported to my first ship in San Diego in December of 1992.

Then, in 1994, I remember walking onto that ship in January, and then the next thing I can remember, I stepped off...it was December. And I don’t remember anything else I did that entire year, but we had finally just passed our last inspection in order to deploy and that night, finally off the ship, I found myself standing at Seaport Village staring out into the bay, with no one else in sight, just after midnight. It had become Christmas Day. And, amongst the eerie silence, I quietly thought to myself, “There must be more than this.”

After that, I decided to accept orders for a Personnel Exchange Program tour in Chile.

Now, this turned out not to be a shore tour. I 118 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

actually spent more time at sea than I did on my first tour, but I did get to do some things that were much more interesting than normal.

I was lucky enough to go to Antarctica on a Chilean Icebreaker for 6 weeks (My 7th and final continent). I was also assigned as the Special Assistant to the Director of White House Activities during President Clinton’s visit during the 2nd Summit of the Americas. I set foot on the Island of Juan Fernandez which was the inspiration for the Daniel Dafoe novel Robinson Crusoe (Real name Alexander Selkirk).

And over time, I became fluent in Spanish. A half-Korean , who looks Hawaiian and speaks Spanish - a combination that could even stump Charles Darwin. So, I decided to go to the Galapagos Islands. Where, one day, while I was sitting on the beach, taking in the astonishing landscapes that remain untouched, contemplating the theory of evolution and how it was inspired, I suddenly heard a rustling behind me, turned my head to see what was making the noise, and saw the massive Galapagos Marine Iguana who decided he was going to check me out. I may have been sitting directly in his normal pathway to the volcanic rocks where his food source was, or maybe he just wanted to find out what was giving off the unusual smell.

We sat there together for an hour, marveling at the differences between us, until he decided that it was time to eat, blew some salty snot, slid into the sea and swam away, never to be seen by me again. The whole time a gigantic smile across my face. Not an experience you can get by looking through the glass at a zoo.

You have to get out there.

But back to the previous subject. The other photo is of Easter Island. 2500 miles from anywhere, it is spectacularly clean and unpolluted.

The water is a royal blue color like nowhere I’ve ever seen anywhere else in the world. And it is also where I finally saw, for the first and only time in my life, the elusive Green Flash. The Green Flash is when the sun is setting over the horizon of the ocean and at the exact moment that it disappears, there is a green flash of light.

All those years at sea and I never saw it. I began to think that it was a myth no matter how many Chiefs would tell me sea stories on the midwatch. But, by the end of the watch the smell of the cinnamon buns baking in the mess deck made its way up to the bridge and the whole thing was forgotten. And then, one day years later, I was standing on the beach of Easter Island watching the sunset, looking out over the bluest water I ever saw, sipping my pisco sour, and BLAM!...There it was. Couldn’t believe it.

And a surprising yet satisfying little smile came across my face as I reminisced about all those angry Chiefs who tried so hard to convince me it was real. In the end, they were right. It is real.

But I was there to get a photo. 30 minutes before this one was taken, it rained so hard you

couldn’t see. Caught out in the open trying to get this picture, I stood over my camera gear trying to shield it from the rain, hoping that it wouldn’t render my entire trip worthless. But, being an island in the Pacific, the rain quickly passed by and I, sitting in a puddle with all of my big boy parts completely underwater, snapped this shot which proves the ancient proverb about taking digital photos that it is better to be lucky than good. They are called “Moai” and I encourage everyone to learn about their fascinating and mysterious history. Then, it began to rain again, and I quickly packed up my gear and mounted my rented moped and hauled ass out of there singing “Born to be Wild” by Steppenwolf, at 8 miles per hour.

So why go through so much trouble, sometimes an unreasonable amount of trouble and expense, to get these photos at these locations? It may have taken three decades of travelling around the world, learning from just about every culture, tradition, influence and way of life, but the answer is always simple...It is something bigger than us; and at the same time, not about us. In every corner of the world I’ve been, do you want to know what the worst thing I see is? Missing the point. Please try not to. Because at this point, ‘92, we have more time behind us than we do ahead of us. And now, three decades having passed since we walked up on that stage and shook the President’s hand, we hope that our lives have been a collection of encounters, gaining perspective from those different from us, seeing the beauty in the world that brings us to tears, and above all, learning from failure. On this significant occasion, I wish all of you, my classmates, a very happy anniversary on our 30th year since graduation and I most sincerely hope that your last three decades have been filled with an abundance of experiences and adventures... and not just looking through the glass in a zoo.

Bill and his Plebe Summer detailers?

92/94 CLASS NEWS

Stand by for 30th reunion, ‘92!

all-electronic format. Great idea and the alumni association frequently considers that as an option. I suspect that over time the magazine strategy may change, particularly as the alumni base that’s more comfortable with electronic over paper grows. Thanks for the suggestion Frank!

Planning is now underway for our 30th Class Reunion in 2023 which has been scheduled for the weekend of 7 October 2023, which is Homecoming Weekend. Jaime Arnone is the reunion chair and is actively looking for help in planning and running the reunion. Looking forward to it myself! — Shogo

’93

’94

Pres: Bob Kuberski e: bob@usna93.com

Pres: Jim Keck c: 904-477-2133; e: JKeck@usna94.com

Vice Pres: CAPT Colleen C. Salonga, SC, USN (Ret.)

Vice Pres: Julie Spencer e: jspencer@1994.usna.com

Bill and new acquaintance in the Galapagos

Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 6.31%

Corr Sec’y: Shogo Cottrell 30765 W. 127th St, Olathe, KS 66061 e: shogo@usna93.com; p: 913-220-1193

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 4.13%

Treas: Brian Bruggeman e: btbruggeman@hotmail.com

Treas: CAPT Jay Matzko, USN(Ret.) e: jtdjm@yahoo.com

Sec’y: Maria J. Pallotta p: 410-440-7552; e: mariapallotta@yahoo.com

Shipmate Correspondence: Maj Shogo Cottrell, USMCR 20902 W 117th St., Olathe, KS 66061 h: 913-782-8149; e: shogo@cottrell-family.com

Corr Sec’y: Margaret (Dotolo) Aden e: margaret.aden@gmail.com

Website: http://www.usna93.com

Jeff Yates is up first this month – he sent in an update a few months ago and I’m not sure what happened to it in the great beyond of the Internet.

Thanks to Jeff for re-sending his update.

M Aloha, I’ve working from my home on Kauai a lot the last few years with a robust home computer kit courtesy of Special Operation Command, Pacific. During that time I also started my foil shop - Paka’a Foil - offering foil gear sales, advice and lessons. I sell Konrad and Cabrinha hydrofoils sets, wind wings and foil boards, and have taught at least a hundred people to foil behind my boat. If anyone is looking to start a great new (and low impact) foil sport or upgrade their gear, or would like some lessons on Kauai or Oahu, visit my website www.pakaafoil.com and give me a call. Foil the flow!

Cheers // Jeff Yates 10th Co That sounds like a lot of fun! My sister and her husband (both USAFA 1998) are stationed in Hawaii and I’ve been in the process of planning a trip to visit them. I’ll make sure to give you a buzz and get some foil lessons – sounds like fun!

I also heard from Frank Luongo a couple of weeks ago – he’s in Houston working in Organizational Change Management with a PE-owned company. He originally was asking about the possibility of moving Shipmate to an

Greetings 1994! Exciting news in Canoe-ULandia this month. We have two retirement updates and another Flag Officer to celebrate.

I also have an on-the-spot report from a DC Women’s Grad Gathering earlier in the month.

Let’s get to it!

I received a quick note from Brad Hanner (via text, no less! Welcome to the 2000’s) alerting me to 13th Company’s Colonel Mike Brook’s nomination to Brigadier General Michael A Brooks, Jr. Bravo Zulu, classmate!

We are all so proud for you and grateful for your continued service. I heard there’s going to be a gathering to celebrate, and Brad’s volunteered to send in a pic and quick update.

After a gentle nudge, CAPT Bart Marsh, USN (Ret.) sent in a beautiful summation of his retirement:

RADM Brad Andros Officiating at CAPT Bart Marsh retirement ceremony.

CAPT Bart Marsh contemplating retirement.

M I know it is rather pathetic that my first submission to Shipmate is to mark the occasion of my retirement, but what can I say, it’s been a busy 28 years, okay? On March 18th, 2022, I retired in a ceremony held in Alumni Hall surrounded by family, friends, and of course, the amazing Class of 1994. Company mate, RDML Brad Andros was the officiating officer and guest speaker and was so dedicated, he flew back from a business trip in Hawaii on the Red Eye to make the ceremony.

The Commandant, Col JP McDonough was kind enough to allow my relatives and close friends to hang out in his conference room before the ceremony and then make a wellappreciated appearance to say hello on a Friday morning of his Spring Break. Other in attendance were my 17th/20th Company stalwarts, Modesto Bigas, Beth Testa Silsdorf, Andy Marcelis, Roland Deguzman, Yolanda Ray, Eric Taylor, Karen Heine, and Adam Kinnear, who surprised everyone by dawning a rare and brand-new suit (a three-piece ensemble looking sharper than ever.) Other classmates able to make the journey were Alicia Lynch Switzer, CAPT Matt Edwards, Kris Burks Edwards, CAPT JP Dunn, and Vann Walke. I was planning to invite the entire class for the festivities, but the date being on the heels of COVID protocols and restrictions opening just a week before, party size was limited. I heard from so many of you from far and wide, including many of you deployed all over the world. We toasted a cold one to you. We were truly blessed when the weather cooperated, and the beverages flowed freely all day into the night. There was even an elusive Chris Demay sighting at McGarvey’s that evening! It was the perfect conclusion to a satisfying 28-year career. Thank you to so many of you in the Class of 1994 that helped me along the way and continue to amaze me with the difference you are making in this world now.

We are all excited to support you in your next chapter of life, Bart. I also appreciate you putting everyone’s names in bold for me! Next, we have an amazing update from Wendy Pesile, wife and best half of CAPT Chris Pesile, USN JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 119

94/95 CLASS NEWS (Ret.) on his retirement ceremony. Many classmates tuned in via Livestream including my DH (dear husband), Mike Aden. From Wendy:

from Liberty University and is now working in Fort Smith, Montana at Refuge Foundation - a ministry that serves leaders in ministry - “We keep world changers in the game.”

As ever, we can see that Chris, Wendy and their family continue their Ministry work.

What an amazing family! During a couple of weeks on the East Coast, I met up with a few ’94 Women Grads. Here’s my report:

CAPT Chris Pesile and family

CAPT Chris Pesile

M After 28 years of adventure with the Navy, we celebrated Chris’s retirement with his Retirement Ceremony on 29 April at Carlisle Barracks US Army Heritage and Education Center and a family party in New Jersey on 30 April. Chris doesn’t officially retire until 1 August, but he is on terminal leave and has already started training with his new employer, Republic Airways, a regional commercial airline. Maybe you will hear him saying, “This is your captain speaking,” on one of your flights in the near future!

Thank you to all our friends and family who honored us by being at the ceremony or party and others who have sent notes of congratulations and well-wishes. We have loved our time in the Navy, and Chris did a wonderful job balancing serving his country and loving his family well. I am proud of the officer, husband, and father he has been and look forward to our future adventures together!

In the meantime, while Chris is training, we are also working on preparing to move from Carlisle, PA to Carmel, Indiana. This will be our first move without children in 25 years. We have a two bedroom apartment lined up to move into late July (if the move timeline goes as planned) in Carmel. Andrew is moving to his own apartment this month, just outside Carlisle Barracks and will continue working as a supervisor with UPS. Kate is starting the last year of her master’s degree with Wheaton College in their program for Outdoor Adventure Leadership at HoneyRock. HoneyRock is Wheaton’s Christian camp and Center for Leadership Development in Wisconsin. Sam graduated 120 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

M Kendra Chappell was kind enough to organize a get together in Arlington, VA. Also in attendance were me, Elissa Smith, Jenny Graves, Brauna Carl and Karen Heine. We had some vegetables and pizza, caught up on life and realized that we’re pretty amazing. Elissa Smith retired from the Navy in 2016 with her last job on the press desk at the Office of Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. She’s still living in northern Virginia and is now working as a government contractor. Jenny Graves lives in NoVa and works as a communicator at the Defense Health Agency. Her kids are in college (W&M, Cornell) and she is living her best life as an empty nester. Dr. Brauna Carl, PhD, does phenomenal work with Veterans and kept the table spellbound with tales. She got out of the Navy in 2004 and lives in the DC suburbs with her husband and two teenage boys. She works as a physical therapist and teaches yoga and Pilates in her spare time. I don’t know if you caught her celebrating her 50th Birthday with pull-ups on FB, but I’m feeling jealous and motivated! Lastly, my dear friend and one time roomie, Dr. Karen Heine dropped in after one of her Doctor in Engineering ceremonies at George Washington University. Karen has her own company and does software development and training for the FAA. I’m so honored to be from the same place as these women. We are leaders in our communities and families, experts in business and healthcare, and we look GREAT!

son at USNA and Midn 3/C Hoot had his celebratory meal paid for by an anonymous ’94 grad in Annapolis. Kuddos Mysterious Classmate—kindness is always in style! Lt. Colonel Marc Alexander, USMC, (Ret.), and CDR Jana Vavasseur, USN, M have now (obviously) joined us civilians. May your retirements be amazing (and feel free to drop an update to me)!! Capt Amy Bauernschmidt and Michelle Pettit met up in Tokyo with an aircraft carrier parked in the harbor. Brad Alaniz dug out ’94s Academic Achievers page from the Trident, where some of the names (including my own) surprised me! To quote Toby Keith, “I’m not as good as I once was, but I’m as good once, as I ever was.” Happy Anniversary to Lisa Schule Evans and Chris Evans celebrated their 28th Anniversary on May 28th with a trip to the movie theater to see “Top Gun.” Lastly, in perhaps one of the strangest examples of “It’s a Small World”, John Kochendorf posted about how his Mom purchased Jen Ogilvie O’Connell’s watch coat from a thrift store a couple of decades ago.

Woah. Someone please figure out the odds of that happening!!

Alrighty Classmates, you’ve done a great job sending in updates. It seems you really don’t want to know how Mike and I met three times.

Remember you can text (nine eight five three seven seven two zero three five), email (Margaret.

Aden@gmail.com), message me on FB, Instagram, Signal or WhatsApp (same digits as above). Let’s get social, let’s stay connected.

Quick, short updates are better than none! I’m actively compiling a list of ’94 whose children have gone to USNA. If you know, let me know and I’ll do a shout out to all the amazing legacy families later in the year. Be safe out there, remember sunscreen and don’t forget your exercises to prevent shin splints!

’95

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 5.48% 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 The Carl’s! Left to right - Lou, Hayden, Brauna and Gabe

Now, onto “What you said on FB”!! There’s a buzz around Cleavon Smith! His play, The Incrementalist closed May 15th at the Aurora Theatre Company in Berkeley, CA. He’s using art to work through some important issues.

His journey is amazing and I’m on the edge of my seat to see what’s next. Todd Hoot has a

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

Classmates, The biggest news this year is the selection of our classmate Jeff Webb as the new CEO of USNAAA! Check our class page and be sure to read his column “The Letter from the President”

95/95 CLASS NEWS in each issue. One of Jeff’s first events in his position was at the Naval Academy Minority Association (NAMA) inaugural gala, joining classmates Carlton Hoye, Doug Lemott Jr. and Sonja Knight Lemott. Congrats to Jeff and his family, which includes Shannon Revell Webb ’04!

Ambassador Brigety and CAPT Ahn

Carlton Hoye, Doug Lemott Jr., Sonja Knight Lemott and Jeff Webb.

Many thanks to all of you who participated in the Spring USNA Challenge! In 2020 we had only 51 donors, then 89 donors last year, and a whopping 165 this year – hitting the 11th place overall at 19% improvement! Let’s keep the momentum going as we have a lot more fundraising to do to reach our goals by our 30th reunion — we are about 25% complete. If at least half of the class donated $95/month from now until then, we would have no trouble meeting our goal…the annual challenges contribute to our totals!

Football season is approaching, and we have about 10 classmates who have Admiral’s row spots. We try to have tailgaters for the home games, so check our Facebook class page for more details. Here’s a note from David Andersen: Football season is around the corner.

If you are in Annapolis in the Fall, come join the Class of ‘95 tailgate. We are in spots A1-A14 right next to gate 2 at Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. It is a great chance to catch up with our classmates, share food and drinks and eventually get around to watching the game. If you would like to join us on game days, please send your email to me at snakedriver56@ gmail.com to be added to the Signup Genius.

Come support Navy Football, Go Navy!

The Ahn family – Vita, Silas, Jacqueline, Ezra and Coco

23rd! Cath Cunningham, Chris Flis, Forrest Young, Mike Baker, Silas Ahn, Steve Milewski and Jason Rimmer

CAPT Silas Ahn retired recently…here’s his update: M I’m grateful for the amazing opportunities that I’ve had to serve our nation, work with incredible people, and live overseas with my family. After an initial tour in special operations, I transferred into naval intelligence with tours in DC, Italy, Hawaii, Taiwan, Japan, and Singapore. We spent the last 15 years or so in the Asia-Pacific region and had the privilege of

watching this dynamic region grow and change. My lovely wife, Jacqueline, was an enthusiastic partner in all of this, as were our children, who were born in Italy, Hawaii, Fort Belvoir, and Taiwan. We owe so much to our family and friends who stayed connected with us over the many years living in far-flung locales, including my parents, Jacqueline’s family in Australia, and my brother Sinclair Ahn ’98 and Sylvester Ahn ’00 and their families. I’m also thankful for all the classmates who have done the journey with us, especially 23rd company mates now-RDML Mike Baker, CAPT Jason Rimmer, CAPT Forrest Young, CAPT Cesar Rios (Ret.), CDR Steve Milewski (Ret.), CDR Chris Flis (Ret.), and Eric Hayes. Great memories with Tom Henneberg and The Honorable Reuben Brigety II, who were post-graduation housemates in Arlington as we embarked on our careers back in the summer of 1995. Special shout out to CAPT Dale Heinken (Ret.), and his Aussie wife, Amanda, with whom we shared the Australia/Tasmania connection and a couple of years as neighbors in Oahu. We were amazingly blessed to have my retirement ceremony in Memorial Hall, with presiding officer Mr. Scott Bray, Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence, and Ambassador Brigety as guest speaker (see our Facebook page for full remarks!). So many made a big effort to attend, including Jennifer (Hogen) Johnson ’97 and her husband Jeremy (West Pointer!). Special appreciation for ceremony participants: then-CAPT Mike Baker, CAPT Forrest Young, CAPT Jason Rimmer, CAPT Trent Fingerson, CAPT Hugh Dainer, LTC Chris Georgi ‘96, CDR Alex Berenberg, LCDR James Martin, CDR Adam Hudson ’06, and LCDR Cory Fitzpatrick. I just started working with a commercial satellite company called Planet Labs and am covering down on several of the combatant command accounts. We’re staying in Northern Virginia for now, which is the closest thing that Jacqueline and I have to home after all these years.

CAPTs Hugh Danier and Silas Ahn

’95: Rob Sherwood, Jim Burke, Mike Santomauro, Bill Connor, RDML Brad Rosen, Enrique Molina, Javier Hernandez, Dean Wakeham and John Bobo (Darron Lee - not pictured) JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 121

95/96 CLASS NEWS witnessing a fellow 8-Baller and ’96er take command of the USS GEORGE HW BUSH on 19 May. CAPT Dave Pollard hosted many of us at a variety of events as we celebrated with him, alongside many current and former shipmates as well as his family. His family was particularly excited to finally be present for one of Dave’s command ceremonies; this was a first, because all others had been at sea! CAPT Brian O’Lavin and CAPT Sam Messer, who share a hometown/childhood with Dave, drove down from Pax River for the ceremony. Also present were CAPT Erica Hoffmann, CAPT Mark Crowe, CAPT Colin Day, CAPT Frank Brandon (’96-1) as well as numerous of us “civ types” including Terry Nawara, Andy Roberts, Adam Schnitzer, Tom Thoma, Ted Diamond, Jay Stapleton, and myself.

’95: Plaque at Mt. Soledad, north side, wall J, row 5, plaque 2

Thanks, Silas! Congrats on your retirement…and if any of our classmates would like to share their stories, let me know and we’ll work it into an upcoming column.

The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial honored our classmate MAJ Megan McClung via a live and virtual tribute event 30 May streamed on their website (links also on our Facebook class page). Megan was the first female Marine officer to be killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as the first female graduate of USNA to be KIA. She was serving as a Public Affairs Officer in Al Anbar Province, Iraq when she was killed by a roadside bomb while escorting media. The keynote speaker was Army Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Sean MacFarland, who had worked directly with Megan and had credited her in changing “hearts and minds” in the region through her outreach efforts. As a brigade combat team commander in Ramadi, Iraq, he is credited with fostering the Sunni Arab “Awakening” movement, which was instrumental in turning the tide of the war. While commanding III Corps, he also commanded all coalition forces in the war against ISIS in Iraq and Syria from 2015 to 2016. The event was hosted by former News Anchor Marc Bailey, including the USMC Band, a wreath laying, and missing-man flyby. Megan’s mom and brother (Re and Michael McClung), many who served with her, and 10 of our classmates came to honor her memory. Megan’s book Be Bold: How a Marine Corps Hero Broke Barriers for Women at War, is now available for preorder.

LCDR Erik Kristensen is also honored on a plaque on Mt. Soledad. Thanks to all for your submissions …non sibi!

’96

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 8.31% Pres: Bill Pennington Vice Pres: Ghislaine (Williams) Stonaker Sec’y: Cara Albright e: caramalbright@1996.usna.com Treas: Nikki Battaglia

Greetings, ’96 – Fitting day to write up a column: it is 24 May, which means it has somehow been 26 whole years (to the day) since the day we commissioned. It’s been fun (and a bit surreal) to see everyone’s recent posts and throwback pictures on social media. We’ve sure come a long way from those four years by the Bay. The first story I have to share this time around is one that will read much like a minireunion recap. Many of us gathered in Norfolk last week, and there we had the honor of

Classmates, fellow O-6s, and longtime hometown/ childhood friends Sam Messer, Dave Pollard, and Brian O’Lavin during the festivities in the hangar bay

CAPT Dave Pollard with his family: his son Ryan (far left), his wife Jen (left), his son Jacob (right), and his daughter Makayla (far right)

’96: Ted Diamond, Andy Roberts, Adam Schnitzer, Jay Stapleton, Cara Albright, Terry Nawara, CAPT Dave Pollard, Jen Pollard, CAPT Erica Hoffmann, CAPT Mark Crowe, and Tom Thoma before the ceremony.

122 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

96/96 CLASS NEWS this event. It is truly inspiring to see many of our own leading from the front.

Another great story comes to us from our own class Vice President, Ghislaine (Williams) Stonaker, who gathered some fellow 96ers to hit the slopes this past winter:

’96: As many USNA grads as could be gathered for a group photo in front of the Stars and Stripes

CAPT Dave Pollard delivering a motivating enough speech that several of us wanted to hunt up our uniforms and deploy as Avengers

A group of 8-Baller inspect the new captain’s quarters before getting a tour of the bridge – we all got our steps in that day, and one of us was heard to shout “I just saw Oscar 27 stenciled on a light fixture” (true story, not-so-sheepish grin here)

M Well, by the time you read this, ski season will sadly be over, but since WUBA SkiFest 2022 was such a fun success, we might be planning the next one. This February six of us planned to meet in New Hampshire for a girls skiing weekend: Jo (Roy) Brooks, Jennie (Smith) McClellan , Amy (Bertas) Ritterbusch, Anna (Lafferty) Boyd & Jenny (Merrill) Tinjum).

Jenny got stuck in Dallas because of a winter storm, and Anna stayed in Alabama to watch her daughter in the State Track meet, so we had a group of four - but they were there with us in spirit!! In typical New England winter fashion, we had myriad of winter weather: freezing rain, ice, subzero temps and snow.

So one ski day turned into us into going tubing on the golf course. No broken bones and only one of us ended up partially in the brook with a wet boot. The skiing was great, the stories were endless, but the laughs and friendship was the best.

Amy (Bertas) Ritterbusch, Ghislaine (Williams) Stonaker, Jennie (Smith) McClellan, Jo (Roy) Brooks

8-ball in the house! Gathering at the post-ceremony reception at Warrior’s Tap House in Dam Neck

Congratulations, Dave – you’ve certainly got an exciting near-term road ahead with COMPTUEX and deployment looming, so we’ll all be cheering on the Avenger team from the cheap seats and look forward to hearing sea stories when you return. Added shoutout to CAPT Colin Day, whose own change of command for PCU-79 was a few weeks before JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 123

96/98 CLASS NEWS and hope to see many of you under our class tent in a few short weeks. BEAT ARMY! —Cara

’97

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 2.84% Pres: Tom Wagner e: twagner1@san.rr.com

Looks like a blast! My snowboard held up a closet wall this winter. I need to make sure that doesn’t happen next winter.

A few additional shout-outs are in order before I close this column, especially now that a few days have gone by and Commissioning Week is over. One goes to Kim Mitchell, who returned to the “right” coast and settled in Edgewater in 2021 during her tenure with National University. This spring she moved on from National University to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where she accepted an appointment to be the new VSO Liaison.

It’s been a joy to follow her exciting career and all the outstanding work she has done and continues to do for our nation’s veterans.

Congratulations, Kim! Another one goes out to Jennifer Campbell, who has been rocking another awesome lineup of classmates for the New 96 Hour interviews this spring and working extremely hard to keep us all connected and learning from each other. Finally, a couple of more go out to all the folks with offspring who are either headed off to boot camp, to USNA in the near future, or commissioning and hitting the fleet. I’m sure I missed some, but in various news clips and social media postings I have seen that Kate and Jim Masterson’s son Jack was just commissioned with USNA ’96+26, while Rebecca and Dave Brenia’s son Alex received an appointment to become USNA ’96+30. Side note: should I start using real numbers because the [+X] keeps getting higher and higher? Repeat after me… “NOT OLD YET.” Also saw that Kathy (Schulz) Tribble and Joe Tribble’s son Martin reported to Parris Island in the end of May and is aligned for an August graduation. I’m sure I missed others! It has been so great to see all the sons and daughters of classmates who are following in our footsteps to serve this great nation. And I see many more poised to do so as well.

It will be the dog days of summer by the time you all read this column, so I wish you all the best of what remains as we cruise into Fall and the upcoming football season. Speaking of cruising, I’m counting on many of you to send me stories and pictures from the Baltic cruise (slated for July) to share in a future column.

Don’t delay – you should be hearing “YOU’RE HOLDING UP THE ENTIRE UNITED STATES NAVY” in your heads right about now. Cheers, 124 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Send news to: LtCol Aaron Shelley, USMCR (Ret.) 1148 Via Jose, San Jose, CA 95120 c: 619-980-8297; e: apshelley@hotmail.com

Hey 97! Our 25th Reunion is fast approaching, and we are excited to celebrate this amazing milestone together in Annapolis. Reminder to everyone that the dates are 21-23 October, with the main tailgater and football game on Saturday, 22 October. We included a full-page advertisement in the May Shipmate issue (page 97+2) with more details on the schedule of events. You can expect a final advertisement in the September issue, and Wags will be sending out a more thorough class email.

Thanks to Erica (Museler) Kraft for her assistance via social media class pages in passing the word around reunion details.

Please let us know if you have any questions in the meantime.

Here’s another retirement update: M Vice Chief of Naval Operations Bill Lescher ’80 recently presented CAPT Christian Mahler with his retirement award. Bill was Christian’s first Pentagon boss and both were lucky enough to earn Harvard Business School MBAs.

Christian is now headed out to Colorado to give Jeep tours and can be reached on LinkedIn or through his agent, CAPT John Kiefaber.

Congratulations on your retirement, Christian!

Be on the lookout for more reunion information soon. We’re looking forward to seeing you all in October!

Beat Army!

-Aaron

’98

Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 2.95% 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

Christian got the crowd going by retelling how he jumped into Pearl Harbor (at night and right before tiger cruise) to save his ID card on the tail end of CVN-71’s 2015 nine month around-the-world combat deployment. The highlight of his career, CVW-1 dropped over 1 million pounds of ordnance on ISIS over a seven-month period in the Arabian Gulf.

See photo below.

’98, during the month of May I attended two happy events: Scott McBride’s promotion to CDR, USCG, and Colin Crickard’s retirement party after 24 years of service.

Scott’s promotion was a large affair held on the ’53 deck of Dahlgren Hall and attended by friends from different services. Arte Mueller, Darren Sweeney, April McBride, Scott McBride, Dave Forman, Mark Symmes, and I (pictured below, left to right) took the time for a class picture. Scott will be headed back to Coast Guard Headquarters where he will assume the duties as Deputy Chief of Public Affairs for the Coast Guard.

98/99 CLASS NEWS recognize. CAPT Beth Regoli assumed command of Naval Air Station Key West on May 12th. Beth was joined by her parents, brother, niece, nephew and several ‘99ers to include Meghan Latcovich and Desobry Bowens. Beth is the right choice to lead the state-of-the-art facility for combat fighter aircraft as well as the premier training center for surface and subsurface military operations.

Go Beth!

’98: Celebrating Scott’s promotion

That’s it for this month. As always, you can send me an update at: shipmate98@ protonmail.com.

’99

Life Membership: 93% Donor Participation: 1.47% Connor, Scott, April, and Grayson McBride

Colin held his retirement at an indoor/outdoor brewpub in Virginia Beach. John Hodgson, Greg Stepler, and I, as well as many other colleagues, friends, and family attended.

Colin has already started work at Norfolk General Hospital.

Pres: CDR Jason Birch e: jb1999@me.com Vice Pres: Dr. Joy Zelinski-Marquez e: drjoymarquez@gmail.com

Remaining in Florida, I also caught up with CAPT Randy Slaff and his beautiful wife, Maraya, at the Special Operations Forces Industrial Conference (SOFIC) Gala held in Tampa. A cameo appearance by Pete Quinn at lunch made the SOFIC week a true success.

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

Colin Crickard

John Hodgson and Colin Crickard

Twenty-three years ago today we raised our hands to support and defend The Constitution.

Where have the years gone? We’ve expanded families, pursued higher education, some served for a few years or we’re still serving, we’re excelling in the private, government, or non-profit sectors. We’re traveling the world or establishing roots. We’re writing books, acting, or owning our own business. Regardless of what path these last 23 years have taken us, it’s been an adventure. I sit and think “how on earth can it be 23 years already? It seems like it was yesterday”! Well, maybe not yesterday, but certainly not 23 years. Some exciting updates since the last submission, and I realize it’s been a few issues since anything has been published, so here’s the first submission from Jason Birch: M Classmates and Friends, As I draft this note on May 26th, the 23rd anniversary of our commissioning, I remain humbled by your continued support of the Naval Academy’s mission—both in and out of uniform. I had the opportunity to share in fellowship with several classmates that you will JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 125

99/04 CLASS NEWS

Left to right pictured Keith Lewis ‘01; Andrea Henshall USAF Retired (Ron’s partner); Ron Chino ‘01; and Andy Abate ‘01.

Lastly, keep an eye out for a message from your fundraising committee as we launch our campaign to support the New Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation Center.

This is a great opportunity to become a plankowner of a legacy building designed for all USNA alumni, parents, and friends.

Keep the Faith, JB For our classmates still in the Reserves, the USN Reserve Captain selections were released in May. Forgiveness upfront if I miss anyone, but congratulations to Armando Aviles, Scott Mericle, and Jodi Beattie. I hope you all send in pics for your pinning!

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Memorial Day, remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service of our country, and the unofficial beginning of summer!

Navigamus HonoreDarlene

’00

’02

Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 5.78% Pres: David Gravseth Vice Pres: Kate (Kranz) Jordan e: katherine.kranz@2002.usna.com Sec’y: Kristi (Tjoa) Laughlin e: shipmate2002@gmail.com Treas: Andy McCann At-Large Directors: Col Elizabeth (Kreft) Brienza, CDR Sean McClintock and Charlie Mello Send Submissions to: shipmate2002@gmail.com Website: www.usna2002.org

’03

Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 2.00% Pres: LtCol Lisa (Steinmetz) Cordonnier, USMC e: lisacords03@gmail.com Vice Pres: CDR Fernando R. Reyes, USN e: delux1981@gmail.com

Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 1.59%

Treas: CDR Megan Barnett, USN e: mmbarnett03@msn.com

Pres: J.V. “Murph” McCarthy Vice Pres: Art Terry

Sec'y: Heather M. (Garland) Selig e: heather.selig@2003.usna.com

Treas: Nick Lalota

Class Website: http://2003.usnaclasses.net/

Sec’y: Tim O’Connor e: Shipmate00@yahoo.com

Webmaster: CDR Kevin Hagan, USN e: kevin.r.hagan@gmail.com

’01

Life Membership: 96% Donor Participation: 4.04%

pleasure of attending the change-of-command ceremony where CDR Brooke Desrochers (nee Anderson) (’04) assumed command of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Four (VQ-4).

Smack in the middle of “Tornado Alley” at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City, as the skies opened and unleashed sheets of wind and rain, Brooke relieved CDR Chris Sequin (’03) to assume command of 550 officers and enlisted comprising “The Shadows.” She was joined by her husband, CDR Max Desrochers (’03), who is the Deputy for Readiness and Assessments for STRATCOMWING ONE, her children Vincent (12), Avery (10), and Elliot (7), and many family and friends. Lt.Col. Laura Perazzola-Ash, USMC (’04) and I were privileged to attend and celebrate Brooke’s awesome achievement.

Shipmate Submissions: Kenneth Michel e: kennethmichel03@gmail.com

’04

CDR Desrochers relieving CDR Seguin as CO of VQ-4

I couldn’t believe it’s been almost 18 years since I met Brooke in English class and Laura on the rugby pitch! Laura is currently assigned as the Operations Officer at the Marine Corps Engineer School at Camp Lejeune, while I am serving as the Executive Officer of Defense Service Office Southeast in Norfolk, Virginia. In July, I will head back to the Washington Navy Yard to begin my next JAG assignment. Hope to see you all at our 20 Lt.Col. Perazzola-Ash, CDR Year Reunion!

Desrochers and CDR Shovlin – Kate Shovlin (’04).

Pres: Jen (Bohr) Tyll p: 302-528-9306; e: jenbohrtyll@gmail.com

Life Membership: 95% Donor Participation: 1.45%

Vice Pres: Amy (Baxter) Laczek p: 240-393-9120; e: laczekaxter@gmail.com

Pres: Lincoln Lukich e: Lincoln.Lukich@gmail.com

Treas: Adam Borcz e: adamhenryborcz@gmail.com

Vice Pres: James Brobyn e: Brobs@2004.usna.com

CLASS SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES

Sec’y: Jen McCullough e: jennifer.mccollough@gmail.com

Treas: LT Joseph Zukowsky e: JMZukowsj@gmail.com

2022

Quick update from Andy Abate:

Sec’y: Andrew Froistad e: froistad@hotmail.com

M USMC retirement on March 5, 2022, Major Ronald Chino in New Orleans, LA

126 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Hello Friends & Classmates!

I’m writing to share a milestone achievement by one of our own. On May 5th, 2022, I had the

Send to: classnews@usna.com

ISSUE: September ’22 October ’22 Nov-Dec ’22

DUE DATE: Jun 27, 2022 Jul 25, 2022 Sep 26, 2022

05/07 CLASS NEWS This edition has been written on May 25th, 2022 – 15 years to the day we graduated.

Holy Cow! Plebes no more for sure!

’06: Class of 2006 honoring Brad Snyder at the 2021 DGA Ceremony

’05

Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 1.33% 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: 1.17%

year later at the 2012 Olympic Summer Games in London, including a gold on the one-year anniversary of his injury. Since then, he’s gone on to win three gold and one silver medal in Rio (swimming), a gold in Tokyo (paratriathlon), and authored his 2016 memoir Fire in My Eyes: An American Warrior’s Journey from Being Blinded on the Battlefield to Gold Medal Victory

’07

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 2.33% Pres: Brady Beauchamp Vice Pres: Major Benjamin Tuck e: Benjamin.Tuck07@gmail.com Treas: LCDR Patrick Sullivan e: patrick.timothy.sullivan@gmail.com Sec’y: LCDR Dan Bellomo, USNR e: dbellomo@umich.edu

Reunion update: Dates: 28-30 October 2022 What: 15th Class Reunion for 2007 What else: Navy beats Temple!

Amplifying information: We are trying to duplicate as best we can our 10 year and still be financially prudent with Class funds.

As part of our pending 15th Reunion, we are going to try and highlight some good news and recognition for our fellow Classmates and their accomplishments to date. 15 years commissioned service often coincides with screening for Command. So that is where we are going to start! Congrats to those highlighted below. If you have some awesome accomplishments you would like to share (advanced degrees, startups, screen for XO/Command, babies, hobbies, etc) please send to Dan at dbellomo@umich.edu John Kennedy (20th Company) shares: The Kennedys were thrilled when I screened CO at our December Admin board and even happier to find out we slated to Explosive Ordnance Disposal EIGHT (Rota, Spain) where I’ll take command next spring (2023).

Rob Kreuz (4th Company) shares: The Kreuz Family are headed to Japan! Rob Kreuz recently screened for CO and received orders to HSM-77 as their incoming XO. Rob, Donna, and kids are headed to San Diego before ultimately reporting to NAF Atsugi in November 2023.

Congrats John and Rob! Another update comes from Patrick “Ned” Dunn.

M On our 15-year anniversary, at exactly 1207 PM, a group of ’07 grads that have been relegated to the Pentagon gathered to share stories and reconnect. Thanks to LCDR Evan Scott’s initiative, there was a strong showing and offices from across the building, including

Send Articles to: classofficersUSNA2007@gmail.com

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

LT Brad Snyder, USN (Ret.) was recognized as 2021 Distinguished Graduate Award Recipient The Class of 2006 witnessed history last month as the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association recognized Brad Snyder as a 2021 Distinguished Graduate Award recipient!

Classmates traveled from afar to celebrate Brad (by far the youngest DGA recipient to date), who has been making our class proud since he was a decorated swimmer in Lejeune Hall.

After losing his eyesight to an IED in Afghanistan in September 2011, he won 2 gold medals and 1 silver medal in swimming just one

’07: Pictured left to right: LCDR John Rashap, LCDR Evan Scott, LCDR Nate Malnati, CDR Patrick Dunn, LCDR Jason Burroughs, CDR Stephanie (Homick) Turo, LCDR BradFeige, LCDR Nick Munn, LCDR Catherine Long, LCDR Dave Eckardt, LCDR Andrew Plum Not Pictured: LCDR Monica Mondloch, CDR Jaime Moreno, LCDR Austin Henne, LCDR James Koffi, LCDR John Inman, CDR Peter Reister and LCDR Graham Van Hook.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 127

07/08 CLASS NEWS the Joint Staff, OPNAV, CNO, and SECDEF were all represented. In the largest office building in the world, it’s great to have camaraderie and friendship, especially when the building becomes vary transient as people cycle through on the way to command, milestones, or even civilian life. I’m sure there were many ‘07 grads that we missed, so send Evan an e-mail and he’ll put you on the distro!

Keep sending us your submissions. We need them! We’ll take anything and everything!

To our Classmates currently deployed and/or away from home – be safe and come back soon. We miss you! Your friends, Classmates, and loved ones wish you the best. For those of you stateside in Fall ’22, get ready for the Reunion, we are going to have a blast!

’08

Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 23.45% Pres: Donald H. Horner III Vice Pres: LCDR Gerald Brooks, USN Treas: LCDR Daniel E. Foose, USN

’08: Honoring our classmate, Major Matthew Wiegand at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

Sec’y: LCDR Dianna Dietrich, USN e: dianna.dietrich@gmail.com

On May 14th, family, friends, and classmates joined at the National Museum of the Marine Corps to remember and honor our classmate, Major Matthew Wiegand. His parents, Skip and Margaret and wife, Katrina welcomed us with a beautiful reception that included special remarks by our other classmate, Major Josh Benson. The museum was open for all to enjoy and especially the exhibits they sponsored in Matt’s honor. The first exhibit, in place now, is the Major Gregory “Pappy” Boyington exhibit, father of Marine Aviation, located in the World War II Gallery. The second exhibit, to be hung in the Hall of Valor later, is the AH-1W Super Cobra flown by Matthew and many of his friends. Katrina has also sponsored a bench within Semper Fidelis Memorial Park. We encourage everyone to visit the museum and enjoy a rest on the bench in Matt’s memory.

Below is a photo of classmates with Matthew’s parents and Katrina.

From Graham Van Hook: M Class of 8, Happy Summer to you all! The Van Hooks were able to beat back the dark ages this past February with the Baptism of our third child and son, Bailey Bush Van Hook, at the Naval Academy Chapel. Patrick Cerone was the Godfather. We had a wonderful time celebrating with our Family and Friends at reception afterwards at McGarvey’s. Thank you to all the classmates that came out: Mark Guadagnini,

128 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

’08: Van Hook Family at the Naval Academy Chapel for the Baptism of Bailey Busch Van Hook

Tom Sloane and Sarah Mustin (Newport).

Other Naval Academy Goats: Joe Mills (2009), Wyman Howard (1965) and Frog Kristensen (1965). Send your prayers to Africa as Mark Guadagnini was recently activated to Djibouti for the next year. I don’t know about their golf courses out there, but I am sure Guad is driving balls down the flight line. The Snake Ranch is still holding strong no matter the distance.

AT FLANK, Graham Snake Ranch at McGarvey’s: Graham Van Hook, Patrick Cerone, and Mark Guadagnini

08/12 CLASS NEWS From Donnie Horner:

’12

Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 24.07% Pres: Capt Ian Cameron, USMC Vice Pres: LT Nicholas DeMasters, USN Treas: LT Nicolas Woods, USN

He helped those who couldn’t or wouldn’t evacuate relocate to bomb shelters, and he delivered food and other essential supplies to sheltering Ukrainians. And he decided to stay in Ukraine.

“Those first few days reinforced my decision to remain in the country. Ukrainians’ patriotism and commitment to helping others were contagious.

Everyone felt the call to serve.”

Sec’y: LT Jane M. Baird, USN Send Articles to: shipmate2012@gmail.com

Donnie Horner and Denny East attended a reception for the International Chapter Officer Forum (ICOF) in May 2022 at Ogle Hall.

’09

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 22.09% 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

’10

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 20.59% 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

’11

Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 14.49% 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

“It’s a relatively calm day here… but I’m not sure what calm or normal is anymore.”

It’s Thursday, May 5th - a warm, sunny Spring afternoon in Norfolk, VA. I’m catching up with classmate Nico Woods. Nico is in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Following graduation from the Stanford Graduate School of Business last summer, Nico moved to Ukraine where he hoped to develop a model for private equity firms looking for investment opportunities in the Eastern European country. He planned to spend the first six months researching various industries with the goal to pursue a search fund in Ukraine.

However, that plan changed in the days before February 24, 2022.

“Everybody denied any assumption that Russia would attack; no one was worried. I’m a planner and need to have contingency plans.”

Shortly after his arrival, Nico connected with Andy Bain - another former military officer and business school graduate. Andy has developed a successful marketing and advertising business, while living in Ukraine over the last three decades. At first, the two discussed best practices for launching and leading businesses in Ukraine. But discussions adopted a more somber tone, as they two began devising contingency plans for an impending invasion.

“We stocked up on food and water. And we established supply chain routes to Romania and Poland. These included safe houses and warehouses between Kyiv and the borders to ensure rapid transfer and storage of people and goods.”

When the invasion began, Nico stayed in Kyiv while Andy relocated to the South.

“Well, I found out that Ukraine was at war when I heard bombs exploding outside my window at 6am… The plan was for me to remain in Kyiv; I’m single, have no kids, and can live out of a backpack. And we knew the first few days would be pure pandemonium, as people waited to cross the border.”

During those first few days, Nico coordinated with expats and government officials to facilitate personnel evacuations along the predetermined supply chain routes.

“There were regrettably a lot of elderly left behind, but thankfully the Ukrainian government had trains running frequently to support more evacuations.”

Nico visits Bucha in aftermath of Russia’s retreat from Kyiv. “We couldn’t travel too far into the city, since Russia has booby trapped and mined everything.”

As the conflict unfolded in the following days, Nico and Andy’s contingency plans evolved.

They quickly recognized that Ukraine’s Territorial Defense Force (TDF), the volunteer component assigned to defend particular geographical areas in-country, was severely under-equipped.

“When the war broke out, the civilian component of the TDF ballooned in size to over 100,000 volunteers. And very early on, we were hearing stories of these defenders without any body armor or helmets. The Ministry of Defense calculated the total demand for body armor among defenders to be 300,000. Meanwhile, the active component is just 250,000 strong. The Ukrainian government simply wasn’t able to fulfill these orders. And while there were many well-funded charities delivering food and medical supplies to Ukraine, there weren’t any groups effectively supplying body armor.”

Nico and Andy were committed to fulfilling the unmet need for body armor. They re-activated the Ukrainian Freedom Fund (UFF), a 501(c)3 founded during the 2014 conflict, with a new focus on security gear. With Kyiv under siege, Nico relocated to the more stable Lviv where he would spend the next month establishing a supply chain to source and deliver body armor to the front lines and defenders throughout Ukraine.

“I saw that Ukrainians operate on trust, those one-on-one connections. I could evacuate to Poland and work 24/7 from my laptop with zero distractions, but I wouldn’t be able to build the network necessary to drive change. Here, you have to meet with people face-to-face.”

While in Lviv, he reconnected with USNA classmate Katie Taylor who was in her final year at Harvard Business School. From an ocean

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 129

12/12 CLASS NEWS away, Katie listened as Nico described the challenges he and Andy faced in creating a grassroots supply chain and marketplace for body armor. Leveraging her business school network and curriculum, she effectively designed a solution. Sourcing and collaborating with Ukrainian developers, they created a database to manually connect suppliers to customers (defenders).

Nico completes first delivery from Lviv Defense Cluster (Mar 2022). “This shipment went directly to Kyiv when it was still fighting off the Russians.

Nico and Andrii, a Ukrainian volunteer, delivered surgical tool kits for facial reconstruction.

“The number one casualty in this war is from shrapnel. Without immediate surgery, victims face long-term health complications. These toolkits are unique in that they contain not only specialized knives for facial surgery but also hundreds of little screws necessary for reconstructing facial bones, muscles, tissue. You can’t buy these surgical tools off the shelf. Huge shoutout to classmate Katie Taylor who helped us with this campaign fundraising, identifying donors and suppliers.

Together, we delivered ~$50,000 in surgical tools to a hospital in Kharviv - Ukraine’s second largest city which has long been at ‘the front’.”

Meanwhile, Nico tapped into his network to find suppliers. By beautiful coincidence, one manufacturer relocated from Kharkiv to Lviv and established a new body armor plant called, Lviv Defense Cluster (LDC).

“It seemed too good to be true. I immediately had that ‘trust but verify’ alarm going off in the back of my mind. So I took the time to personally inspect and walk through each segment of the body armor manufacturing process - almost like a Zone Inspection or PQS. I spent 20 hours going from steel cutter, to steel bender, to seamstress. I even went to Yaroviv (the International Peacekeeper base) the day after it was bombed, since it was the only base where Ukrainians would permit me to test fire the body armor plate with an AK74.”

130 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Compiling their research into a fundraising packet and distributing it throughout their networks, Nico and Andy have raised over $800,000 for UFF. However, Nico will be the first to tell you that fundraising isn’t enough.

“UFF’s mission is to deliver aid to military and defenders wherever they might be. To do that, we have to focus on last-mile delivery. We can’t afford to procure all of this equipment only to have it sit in a Lviv warehouse. Defenders need this equipment, and our donors want to know that their contributions are impactful. We use messages, photos, and videos to satiate any concerns that goods are being delivered accordingly.”

Nico with Ukrainian military Senior Enlisted Leader delivering an order of body armor and helmets for a Ukrainian army unit fighting in Kharkiv (Apr 2022).

UFF’s model is working. Nico and Andy are not only successfully sourcing and delivering body armor and Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs).

They are also now consulting with officials to “plug holes’’ and address challenges in the humanitarian aid supply chain.

“I could be on back-to-back calls for 18 hours a day; so much of this experience has been about networking and building that trust. Then, I’ll get an unexpected call to meet with a member of Parliament or Deputy Minister of Defense who wants to discuss how to best deliver aid to the front lines.”

But success does not come easily. As the conflict wages on, Nico and Andy continually face setbacks and adversity.

“UFF is like a startup. We’re always innovating and grinding to overcome the next challenge. It’s a lot of ‘Message to Garcia’ in that way… And with every new lead, we have to maintain a questioning attitude. It’s a rapidly evolving field; we have to be

agile and make decisions and commitments quickly. The experiences from my nuclear power days have been particularly helpful in this regard.

Having that questioning attitude has saved us precious time and resources… Most recently, we’ve been struggling with donor fatigue. The flashy news titles have faded or transitioned to more domestic issues, but this war is still going on.”

Nico plans to remain in Ukraine, while working with UFF. To learn more about UFF, visit their website (https://theUFF.org/) or follow them on social media (@ukrfreedomfund on Instagram or Ukrainian Freedom Fund on Facebook).

It’s a busy summer for 2012. I recently caught up with Phillip Jones who’s running for Mayor of Newport News, VA. Good luck, Phillip!

Why are you running for public office?

What led you to this moment?

Service has been a part of my life since childhood. As a military brat, I spent my early years exposed to different cultures and homes worldwide before my parents retired at Langley AFB.

After September 11th, I felt an obligation to do my part, and that path led me to Annapolis and the Marine Corps.

Following active duty, I pursued a joint degree between Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School to equip me with the ability to speak to private and public sector issues.

Returning home, I saw Newport News still facing some of the struggles from my youth, especially in comparison to other areas of the Commonwealth. Other mid-sized cities had prioritized regional economics and innovation and reaped the benefits through All-America City selections and population growth, but Newport News was decreasing in size and resiliency.

I feel called to step up and do more for the city that has done so much for me. I’m a native son of Virginia who wants to play a part in constructing policies that will help to uplift my community.

How have the Naval Academy and Marine Corps influenced your identity as a public servant and leader?

My SEL, Chief Rodrigues, used to say that “Leaders have a moral obligation to place

themselves at the point of friction.” During my time as an officer in the Marine Corps, I leaned heavily on his advice and the support of my NCOs and SNCOs. Daily, I tried to combine servant leadership and tactical, technical proficiency. I worked with people from all walks of life to accomplish a common goal. Leading those Marines has been and will always be the greatest honor of my life.

Marine Corps experience notwithstanding, I draw the bulk of my leadership style from my parents. The lessons they have instilled in me from an early age have shaped me into the man and leader I am today. They always told me that to whom much is given, much will be required and expected. I have tried to live up to their words daily and help lift others as I climb.

Service to others is the rent that we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.

To learn more about Phillip Jones, visit: https://phillipjonesformayor.com.

’15

Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 34.53%

’18

Pres: CAPT Ward “Bubba” Scott III, USMC p: 603-236-1011; e: wardscottiii@gmail.com

Pres: LTJG Dan Stitt, USN

’13

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 33.72% 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: 36.47% Pres: 1stLt William R. Roberts, USMC Vice Pres: 1stLt Conor J. Kearney, USMC

Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 33.63%

Vice Pres: LT Dylan Cawdery, USN p: 801-638-0724; e: dcawdery@gmail.com

Vice Pres: LTJG Michael Pahissa, USN

Treas: LT Joshua David Elliott p: 772-643-4468; e: joshuaelliott2015@gmail.com

Sec’y: LTJG Rachel LaBuda, USN

Sec’y: CAPT Madeline Zell, USMC p: 410-370-3068; e: mad.zell.15@gmail.com

’16

Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 34.97%

Treas: LTJG Gio Hernandez, USN Send Articles to: 2018usna@gmail.com

’19

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 4.50% Pres: 2ndLt Isaac Phillips III, USMC

Pres: Capt Eric B. Kellogg, USMC

Vice Pres: ENS Tate Schumacher, USN

Vice Pres: Capt Matthew L. Chavez, USMC

Treas: ENS Leor Golan, USN

Treas: LT Renata M. Kolinko, USN

Sec’y: ENS Gil Wright, USN

Sec’y: Capt Zachary L. Coffman, USMC

’20

Send Articles to: Shipmate2016@gmail.com

Phillip participates in Khaan Quest 2014, a multinational exercise facilitating bilateral interoperability. Photo by 2nd Lt. Courtney Caimona | FIVE HILLS TRAINING AREA, Mongolia

12/22 CLASS NEWS

Ahoy!

Its reunion time! Due do the pandemic of last year, our 5 Year Reunion will be a 6 Year Reunion. If the news hasn’t reached you yet, the Class of 2016 6 Year Reunion will take place on 8 October 2022. For all the sports fans back home, that is the Navy vs. Tulsa home game.

Festivities will include a formal parade, a class tailgate, and many more soon to come. Direct any questions you have to your Company Reps or to any of the Class Officers. I hope to see you all there!

As always, send any and all class news, updates, happenings, and debauchery to: shipmate2016@gmail.com.

Enjoy a Fine Day, Zach Coffman, Secretary, Class of 2016

’17

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 27.58% Pres: 2ndLt Chosnel Raymond, USMC e: chosnel.ra@gmail.com Vice Pres: ENS Robert Winning, USN e: robertwinning34@gmail.com Treas: ENS Theodore Schopf, USN e: tedschopfii@gmail.com

Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 2.09% Pres: 2ndLt Mike Smith, USMC Vice Pres: 2ndLt John Finnegan, USMC Treas: ENS Grayson Gossett, USN Sec’y: ENS Nolan Kreipe, USN

’21

Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 1.81% 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: 0.0% Pres: MIDN Andre C. Rascoey, USN Vice Pres: MIDN Jonathan D. Miranda, USN Treas: MIDN Hampton B. Boyd, USN Sec’y: MIDN Rory S. Cox, USN

Sec’y: ENS Molly McGuckin, USN e: mollykmcguckin@gmail.com

Treas: LTJG Emily L. Kreyenhagen, USN Sec’y: LTJG Elizabeth J. Powers, USN Send Articles to: shipmate2014@gmail.com

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 131

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 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: 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

Chapter President Thom Rossa ’63 is optimistic that we will return to regular meetings in the late summer of 2022.

Details of past and upcoming activities can be found on the chapter website at http:// southernarizona.usnachapters.com/index.html.

Arkansas BGO Area Coordinator: Scott Pursley e: Scott.J.Pursley@gmail.com

Arkansas Chapter Pres: Denny East ’08 e: denny.east5@gmail.com Vice Pres: Doug Waller '02 e: waller_doug@yahoo.com Sec'y Treas: Jason Coyle '09 e; jason.coyle@gmail.com

Republic of Korea Chapter Pres: CDR Chong (John) M. Yi ’85, USN e: John.M.Yi@raytheon.com

Tokyo Bay Chapter Pres: Mori Nixon ’81 1-15-19-301 Minami-Aoyama Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062 Japan: 090-9402-1291 / US: 253-656-6992 e: mnixon@gns-inc.us

California Los Angeles Chapter Pres: Shane Skopak ’05 e: shane.skopak@yahoo.com Vice Pres: Adrian Montecinos ’14 p: 562-587-3690; e: admont19@gmail.com Sec’y: Russel Hill ’06 e: hill_russ2@live.com Treas: Michael Seaver e: michaelseaver@gmail.com

Asia BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Trubeville e: bgoarea501coordinator@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator (LA/Orange County): CDR Steve Shatynski ’83, USN (Ret.) p: 714-255-6108 e: Stephan.shatynski@wellsfargoadvisors.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Capt. Chris Palmenberg e: palmenberg@yahoo.com

Guam Chapter

BGO Acting Area Coordinator (LA County): Jim Trotter p: 909-631-7669; e: Jimstrotter@yahoo.com

Arizona 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

Arizona Pres: Capt David M. English ’86, USMCR e: David.English@1986.usna.com www.usna.com/Chapter/us/arizona Sec’y: Steven W. Ranes ’02 e: StevenWRanes@gmail.com

Philippines Chapter

Website: http://arizona.usnachapters.com

Pres: COMMO Alberto B. Carlos ’89, AFP p: +63-2-525-1003; m: +63-917- 521-1637 e: carlosabet@yahoo.com

Southern Arizona Chapter

Sec’y: Capt Carl Roy Catalan ’08, PMC (PN) p: +63-917-706-8042; e: Roitime23@gmail.com

Pres: Thom Rossa ’63 e: TRossa@hayes-soloway.com

Website: www.groups.yahoo.com/communityusnaphil

Sec’y: Jim Hillenmayer ’73 e: jhillenmayer73@msn.com

Singapore Chapter

Website: http://southernarizona.usnachapters.com

After a two year pandemic-driven hiatus, the Southern Arizona Alumni Association Chapter got together for a Spring Social dinner at a local country club. It was a well-attended, fun-filled evening with great food, cocktails, and lots of stories of the “good old days.”

Southern Arizona Chapter

132 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Pres: Say Yong Tan ’05 e: say@2005.usna.com Vice Pres: Andy Harrell e: andyh125@gmail.com Sec’y: LTJG Nicole Uchida ’12, USN e: Nicole.Uchida@fe.navy.mil Chapter Email: USNASG@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Riverside/San Bernardino): CDR Bill Lauper, USN (Ret.) p: 619-840-2846; e: lauperwm@gmail.com

Hello Shipmates!

First of all, congrats to the Class of 2022!

We are proud of you and excited for you as you move on to your next chapter in life, the fleet!

Here in LA/OC we just got done with LA Fleet Week at the Battleship IOWA in San Pedro. It was an amazing event and the folks at Battleship IOWA did a great job putting it together. Lots of exposure not only for the Navy, but the armed forces in general.

CHAPTER NEWS Monterey Bay Chapter Pres: LT Vic Kanth ’15 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

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: Dave McKie ’66 e: david.mckie2155@gmail.com Treas: Jack Everett ’64 e: jeverett@quicknet.com Past President: Dennis P. Joyce ’61 p: 916-996-1333; e: djoyce1961@hotmail.com Website: sacramento.usnachapters.net BGO Area Coordinator: Bob Proano p: 530-274-9205; e: rproano730@gmail.com

Moving on to May, our guest was Parks Stephenson ’79. Parks is a historian, documentarian and explorer. A former NFO his specialty is now historic research and forensic reconstruction, specializing in military and maritime areas. He has been involved with many projects including diving to the Titanic wreck. At the lunch he focused on his work investigating the USS JOHNSTON (DD-557). JOHNSTON was sunk during the Battle off Samar in October 1944. Of the crew of 327 only 141 survived. Her remains lie 4 miles beneath the Philippine Sea and were located 30 October 2019 and verified March 2021. Parker is learning how she sank and who went down with the ship. By putting together a 3D rendering that shows where the ship got hit and in what order Parks hopes to figure out how she ended up on the ocean floor.

It was another terrific presentation for the Chapter and many of us will be following Parks as he reveals his conclusions.

San Diego Chapter Grads in photos: Adrian Montecinos ’14, Shane Skopak ’05, MIDN 2/C Chloe Ferreira ’24 Grads in the Northern LA area continue to have their monthly luncheon and encourage alumni in that area to attend.

L to R in photo: Mitch Marich ’71, Colin Mackenzie ’77. Joe Koch ’57, Jim Kelly ’66, Beverlee Kelly, Pete Tamny ’65, and Nancy Tamny.

Upcoming Events: - Tiki Boat Cruise: Summer - Navy/Notre Dame Watch Party: Nov 12 - Army/Navy Watch Party: Dec 10 We really enjoy bringing new shipmates onboard. If you are an alumni in the LA/OC/ Inland Empire area, we would love to have you join the group and hopefully see you at our upcoming events. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Pres: Steve Rasmussen ’88 e: President@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

In April Bill Bonwitt ’78 spoke to us as the Executive Director, Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) since 2017. Bill covered a broad perspective of what he does and what NIWC achieves for the Navy and other services. Bill is the civilian leader of over 5200 scientists, engineers and specialists working on technological advances every day for the Navy. I would direct anyone reading this who is interested in what NIWC’s all about to the NIWC web site at www.NIWCPacific.navy.mil

Parks Stephenson ’79 and Craig Smith ‘82

I encourage everyone reading this and especially San Diego Alumni to register on MyUSNA.com.

It will let us know you are out there and better yet it’s an easy way for you to follow the Chapter events of which there are many. Go register and then join the Chapter - you might enjoy it and meet a few classmates or make new friends.

San Francisco Bay Area Chapter

Bill Bonwitt ’78 Executive Director NIWC

Pres: Bobby Nefzger ’14 e: (bobbynefzger@gmail.com Vice Pres: Gordon McDonald ’06 e: usnaaasf.vp@gmail.com Sec’y: Ray Fazzio ’57 e: usnaaasf.secretary@gmail.com 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 t Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ usnaaasfbayarea Instagram: @usnaaa_sfbaychapter

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BGO Area Coordinator: Bob Garcia e: bob@coeususa.com

DISTINGUISHED CHAPTER AWARD

Two outings are being planned for the SF Chapter, A meet up aboard the USS HORNET Museum for the May / June timeframe and a Golf Tournament in the June / July timeframe.

2021 Distinguished Chapter Left to right Ryan McCormack ’78, Bill Bonwitt ’78, Eric Kalisky ’78 and Faris Farwell ’78

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 133

CHAPTER NEWS

San Francisco Chapter: Left to right: Chris Morales ’07 and wife Liz, Tony Perez ’06, Mike Scanlon ’08, Ray Fazzio ’57, BJ Mahal ’03, Bobby Nefzger ’14, Dan Beck ’99, Brian Frack ’89, Nick Kay ’99, Mike Fazzio ’85

Brian Frack ’89 organized a 2-hour social gathering of 10 alumni plus guests at the Anchor Brewing Company in San Francisco. Afterwards the group toured the brewery which was forged in San Francisco in 1896, America’s First Craft Brewery.

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

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

Chapter email: usnaaasantabarbarachapter@gmail.com

Comms Dir: David Candler ’67 p: 860-823-0862; e: davcandler@aol.com

Web: http://santabarbara.usnachapters.net/

Meeting Chairman: Vacant

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/santabarbara. chapterusna.9

Website: http://connecticut.usnachapters.net

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usnaalums santabarbara/

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

Colorado Springs Chapter Pres: LCDR John Sledgianowski ’87, USN (Ret.) p: 719-287-2187; e: sledgesix@msn.com BGO Area Coordinator: CDR James Keating e: James.keating@bgo.usna.com

134 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Naval Academy Parent Club of CT Website: http://ct.usnaparents.net

Ahoy Shipmates! Welcome to Summer!!

Back in The Day summer meant finishing a year of school and embarking on a summer of Naval adventure and practical learning that you just can’t replicate in the classroom. Back quite a while ago (60’s-70’s) that meant Summer Cruise (real cruise on major ships all over the world) for after Plebe year (Youngster Cruise) and for First Class Cruise, and involvement in Amphibious Warfare, Marine training and Naval Air. Then there were plenty of ships from WW2 and Vietnam era, and there was an acknowledged need to give a wide array of background for both Service Selection and a broad understanding of the Rest of the Navy when out in the Fleet. The summers evolved, and the travel and shipboard time truncated over the years. But I can definitely recount the Many lessons I learned whilst participating in those summers. We can trade personal stories at the next Blue and Gold Happy Hour.

Speaking of meetup events- with the most serious COVID times seeming to have past, the Connecticut Chapter re-started the B&G Happy Hour gatherings. The first in several years (due to COVID) was held at the Mystic Hilton on May 5 and it was great seeing fellow alums.

Some in attendance were: Jason Burke ’88; Ryan deMile ’97; Phil Pilewski ’79; Ed Sundberg ’68; Dave Candler ’67 and Alan Weigel ’79 (with Diana Weigel).

And looking forward, we expect to have several more such meetups at other regions in CT so as to reduce the drive time for attendees during the coming year.

But speaking of Party! As a reminder of summer programs, as in years past the Navy Sailing Squadron (now called CSTS) will have five boats that will visit CT and will make port calls: to Stamford 17-20 June hosted by alumni at Stamford Yacht Club and the Greenwich visit will be 15-18 July hosted by alumni at Greenwich Yacht Club. The Mystic visit will be at Mystic Seaport 11-14 August and hosted by the Chapter (anticipate a BBQ at Fife Pavilion in Stonington).

We, and the sailing squadron, have had an enjoyable and two-way educational time in the past. Of course this is dependent on the squadron’s ability to find Connecticut. They have done so well in the past, but this year it is anticipated that they will be assisted/led/supported by none other than our President Alan Weigel!! But he is an accomplished sailor, so What Can Go Wrong?

Heads UP!: You may have heard that the Alumni Association is moving to a new platform for connecting alumni called “myUSNA” developed using a system called Hivebright. Eventually everything from USNA.com will moved to the new platform and the old systems will be discontinued. Early looks at the core system by your CT officers is very encouraging. Stay tuned…

But!! Whether before or after that transition, please consider going to the alumni portal and verifying/updating your key contact information. Among other things, it it that basis for which we, the CT Chapter officers, gain the email list to contact you. If you are Active Duty and have been transferred, or retired and moved, the location known by the Alumni Association (and the local Chapter) to provide the email listing for our notifications depends on Your updates.

There is no NavPers update.

Great: when that is done, read on…

This will be published in July/Aug 2022.

Graduation and the Herndon climb will be things of the past. But you all DO remember that the 21-foot granite obelisk played a significant part in your life, perhaps, for some, more than any Other monument. AND for some of us it has been a long time since we reviewed Why the Herndon Monument is THERE. And during the climb, back in The Day, perhaps you were facing outward away from the monument- arms locked at the elbow or were simply on a different side than the inscription, or you were distracted by other goings-on (or excessive lard in

CHAPTER NEWS the eyes) to carefully read. And at times Other Than the Plebe Climb you would have had to walk on the Navy Grass to get up close, and there were signs warning of THAT. So here is a brief refresher: As writ on the side facing the Chapel: Commander William Lewis Herndon 1818-1857 Naval Officer - Explorer - Merchant Captain In command of the Central America, home-bound with California goldseekers, Captain Herndon lost his life in a gallant effort to saveship and lives during a cyclone off Hatteras, September 12, 1857.

“Forgetful of self, in his death he added a new glory to the annals of the sea” - Maury

Costa Rica

BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Turbeville 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

Delaware BGO Area Coordinator: Maj Brad Boyd ’87 p: 302-377-4479; e: Brad.Boyd@bgo.usna.com

Delaware Chapter Pres: Chris Dierkes ’85 p: 302-256-8949; e: Christopher.F.Dierkes-1@usa.dupont.com

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.) e: pjgarfield@comcast.net; p: 904-314-9691

A couple of additional items: Whoever is the one to replace the cap is expected to be the first Admiral in that class.

Checking indicates… Nope, never happened.

Fastest time ever was…. Complicated. The year a cargo net was used, crafty but can’t count that. The years lard was not used, can’t count that either. (And in MY case, in lieu of lard, was awful, terrible floor tile wax remover in its concentrated form. Highly stingy on the eyes and just as slippery as lard (but we took 38 min. 30 seconds, with the additional encouragement to give the eyes some respite). Hard to imagine the exertion of the 1-4 hour attempts of some other classes! But credit where it is due: the Class of 1975 had the fastest recorded time of 20:00 minutes for a greased monument. And the Class with the Longest time was 4:05:17. They may have missed evening meal.

Best wishes to you all until next time. Stay safe out there. Contact the officers above if we can be of assistance or if you have ideas for this column or Chapter Activities!

Dave Candler ‘67

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: Orlando_Chapter_President@alumni.usna.com Sec’y: Greg Hemphill ‘72 e: E. usnaaamembershiporlando@gmail.com Webmaster: Joe Cooney ‘83 e: josephc993@gmail.com Website: https://myusna.com/topics/9546 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ 1415188042037372 BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard O’Sullivan ’77, USN (Ret.) e: RAAOS@aol.com

Our Orlando chapter was in need of new leadership and new volunteers stepped up: Christopher “Chris” Clark ’01 will be our new

Orlando Chapter President, Gregory “Greg” Hemphill ’72 is our new Secretary & Membership Committee Chair, and Joseph “Joe” Cooney ’83 is our new webmaster. We still have the following open positions on our Board of Directors: Vice-President, Fund Raising Committee Chair, Event Coordination Committee Chair, Business Networking Chair, Communications Coordinator, and Outreach Committee Chair. If you are interested in serving in our Chapter’s Board please contact Chris. Joe Cooney has been working hard to transition from our old chapter web site at http:// orlando.usnachapters.com. The new Chapter website is on a more modern platform at https://myusna.com/topics/9546.

Our now ‘Past’ President, Turhan Hidalgo ’93, faithfully served the Orlando Chapter as its President for almost six years. His dedication and fantastic support never wavered, even during the isolating time of Covid. The entire Chapter extends our sincere thanks to Turhan - BZ. We are starting to plan for a more active year than we had over the dark “COVID” ages of 2020/21 and your participation is key. To check your membership status or for additional information, contact Greg Hemphill at usnaaamembershiporlando@gmail.com. New members bring new energy! Please welcome Jeff Valmus ‘87 and his wife Tammy to the Orlando area and Chapter.

Preparations are in full swing as we get ready to host the Navy vs UCF football game here in Orlando on Saturday, 19 November 2022.

We are planning two activities, a Welcome Reception on Friday 18 November and a Tailgater on Saturday, 19 November. As new information becomes available, we’ll send out updates.

RADM Ray G. Jones ’60 is leading the charge for the chapter activities and needs volunteers to head up the various committees and events.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Ray at raygjones@earthlink.net.

To support these activities, funding through private gifts is absolutely essential. Please consider making a donation to our chapter as follows: - Go Navy! Level - $100 to $499 - Commander Level - $500 to $999 - Captain Level - $1,000 to $1,999 - Admiral Level - $2,000 or greater For more information or to make your tax-deductible contributions please contact Shawn Wattles ’95 at: shawn.wattles@gmail.com.

If you shop on Amazon, you can also support our chapter by using this link: https:// smile.amazon.com/ch/46-1504426. Amazon will donate .05% of all purchases made to our chapter.

President’s Farewell: It was my pleasure to serve as President of the USNAAA Orlando chapter for the last five JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 135

CHAPTER NEWS years. I thank each one of you for your help and commitment during my tenure. Please continue to support Chris Clark ‘01 and the new Chapter leadership with your membership and participation in our future activities. GO NAVY, BEAT UCF! GO NAVY, BEAT ARMY! Turhan Hidalgo

Palm Beach Chapter Pres: Ivan Rosa ’84 e: irosa@1984.USNA.com BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Dennis R. Neutze ’65, JAGC USN (Ret.) p: 305-705-4722 ; e: dennis.navy65@googlemail.com

Pensacola Chapter Co-Pres: Jose Perez ’10 Co-Pres: Joey Walker ’02 e: usnaaapensacola@gmail.com

Suncoast Chapter

Pres: Hank White ’68 e: hfwhitejr@aol.com

*On Valentine’s Day, we had an appropriate luncheon with the sounds of The Vanderbilt Strings; and *In March Navy’s AD Chet Gladchuck was our speaker – always very informative and a big draw.

Our new Board has had one Zoom/ telephone meeting in May and there were many new and great ideas on the “drawing table”; including a possible kayak trip in July.

Sec’y: Lukas Rebertus ’12 e: lwrebertus@gmail.com

Space Coast Chapter

Sec’y: John Klose ’78 e: jpklose78@gmail.com Website: Pensacola.usnachapters.com BGO Area Coordinator: Capt. Joan Platz e: joanplatz.bgo@gmail.com

Southwest Florida Chapter

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Dennis R. Neutze ’65, JAGC USN (Ret.) p: 305-705-4722 ; e: dennis.navy65@googlemail.com Website: southwestflorida.usnachapters.net

After many years of faithful service, Doug Backes ‘70 is turning over the reins as President of the USNAAA of SW Florida to Hank White ’68 (our former Vice President). Our steadfast Treasurer, Bailey Geeslin (GCA ’66) is turning over his duties to Herb Andrews ’66 (our former Secretary); and Luke Rebertus ’12 is taking over Herb’s duties as Secretary.

Pres: CAPT Pete Peterson ’56, USN (Ret.) p: 321-952-2066; e: RETEP401@gmail.com Sec’y: LtCol Tom Schwartz ’56, USAF (Ret.) p: 321-255-5452 ; e: thomasschwartz@bellsouth.net BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard O’Sullivan ’77, USN (Ret.) p: 407-687-6877; e: raaos@aol.com

Suncoast Chapter Pres: Alois (Al) Burda ’68 e: alburda3@verizon.net Vice Pres: Craig Harvey ’76 e: harveyct@hotmail.com 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 e: sswift@1987.usna.com

RADM Larry Chambers ’52 and Doug Backes ’70

Doug’s final year as President was a busy one: *Happy hour at Noodles Italian Cafe in Naples (very well attended); *Army-Navy tailgate at Wyndemere CC (great outcome); *Joint Chapter luncheon with Sun Coast Council and heard from Vietnam era icon RADM Larry Chambers; *We took on Air Force and Army in a golf tournament and placed 2nd;

136 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Congratulations to the newly graduated and commissioned USNA Class of 2022 and welcome to the Fleet and Marine Corps!

Wishing you all “Fair winds and following seas” although it must be mentioned with a bit of caution that “Calm seas never made a skilled sailor.” But don’t fret, you are prepared for this voyage. By the way, if you’re ever back in the area during Navy Football season, stop by one of our tailgates(and say hello to your parents and grandparents).

Yep! It was as good as last year! On Saturday February 26 the Florida Suncoast Chapter held

its first event of 2022 outdoors at Snook Haven on the beautiful Myakka River in Venice. With a whole host of alums, spouses, parents of recent graduates and parents of midshipmen and guests in attendance, it was a great success, with COVID hopefully in the rear-view mirror.

Alumni attendees were: Warren Rothman ’51, George Francis and Rachel Taylor ’55, Ron and JoAnna Barnett ’61, Nancy Bushnell (Reiling) ’62, Jim Brengle ’68, Dick and Anna D’Anna ’68, Kevin LaGraff and Susan Atkins ’68, Al and Kate Burda ’68, Wayne and Cyndi Girardet ’69, Jim Hinton’70, Jan Milligan’71, Mike Gaffney ’71, Gary Johnson ’72 and stepson Kyle, Bob Smith ’73, Craig and Darlene Harvey’76, George Thompson ’77,Tim and Ginger DiMenna ’77, George “Bo” Hamrick ’79, Joe Hayden ’80, Carl Cramb ’81,George and Carolynn Chamberlain ‘82 . Also joining us were Connor and Mayumi Hancock (parents of Cameron ’21) and Craig and Raynelle Bohn (parents of Tessa ’23).

Gift card prizes went to: SOPA: Warren Rothmann ’51, Bull Ensign: Raynelle and Craig Bohn (Parents of Tessa ’23); Most attendees from a class: 1968 Jim Brengle and Kevin LaGraff (Dick D’Anna and Al Burda declined) ; Farthest Travel: Jan Milligan ’71 from all the way from Anna Maria Island; and winner of the Raffle of Nametags Jayne Clark (wife of Bob ’75) Congrats to all winners!

A great outing with delicious food and the kind of camaraderie that only “Boat Schoolers” know.

On Saturday March 19, a Celebration of Life for Vic Reiling ‘62 was held at The Meadows Country Club in Sarasota hosted by Vic’s lovely widow, Nancy Bushnell, and his family. He had a fascinating life as a Naval Officer and Toy Inventor and was known as Roger Staubach’s ‘65 “Firstie”. A familiar face at Suncoast Chapter Navy Football tailgates, he was liked by all and will be missed. May he Rest in Peace.

CHAPTER NEWS

Suncoast Chapter

What fun at TT’s Tiki Hut in Punta Gorda!! (see photo above) Almost 30 alums, spouses and friends showed up for a great lunch overlooking the beautiful Peace River on March 20.

Much thanks to George Chamberlain ’82 for organizing this one!

We received word that one of our recent members was selected as a Distinguished Graduate for 2022. Congratulations to VADM William “Doug” Crowder ’74, USN (Ret).

Perhaps you have met him at a Chapter or Navy League event. In addition to his considerable accomplishments and leadership qualities, you will find him personable, approachable, and engaging. We are honored to have him as one of our own and he joins RADM Larry Chambers ’52, USN (Ret) as our Chapter’s second member to be so honored. So, if you see Doug, I hope you will greet him to offer your heartiest, personal congratulations.

Looking forward to Navy Football? We’ll be having tailgates at our familiar haunts. Watch for announcements!

planning for the summer – an Army-Navy golf match, an inter-academy Tampa Bay Rays baseball game and a family picnic. Our summer began with our Tampa Bay Chapter meeting in April. In attendance were Warren Hahn ’60, Gary Polansky ’69, Tim Corcoran ’67, Bill Graham ’72, Chris Heath ’72, Jane Lochner ’84, Maria and Paul Rock ’88, Janel Brown ’97, Jonathan Shannon ’02 and Brian Tsai ’16. We also welcomed new members Matt Packard ’06 and Jonathan DeSimone ’13.

We convened again in May to share Commissioning Week memories while continuing our summer planning. Attendees: Warren Hahn ’60, Gary Polansky ’69, Tim Corcoran ’67, Perry Dempsey ’72, Bill Graham ’72, Chris Heath ’72, Gerry Imau ’81, James Hamm ’84, Jane

Lochner ’84, Paul Matthews ’85, Christopher Thompson ’92, Bryan Burjat ’93, John Miles ’93, Joseph Wendl ’93, Jon Connelly ’05, Matt Packard ’06 and Jonathan DeSimone ’13.

Our chapter kicked off Memorial Day to remember our roommates, classmates, and shipmates at our inaugural Run to Honor 5K event at in South Tampa! Over 30 alumni, family members, and friends celebrated and toasted our fallen shipmates. Father Tim Corcoran ’67 gave a memorable blessing to kick off our event. Stuart and Garret Hine (prospective classes of 2033 and 2037) read a part of the Gettysburg address, and each alumni discussed the honoree they were walking or running for. Taps was then performed on the French Horn. Attendees included: Warren Hahn ’60 (in honor of his 4 year roommate Gary Gretter ’60), Father Tim Corcoran ’67 and friend Cathy McEwen, Chris Heath ’72, John Sarao ’76, Daughter Krista Hill, James Hamm ’84, Donna Hamm, Steve Swift ’87 and Kris Swift, Chris Thompson ’92, Laura Tillinghast Hine ’97, Hank Hine, sons Stuart and Garrett Hine, Eric Thiel ’95, Jessie Thiel and son, Jesse Maynor ’01, and Jesse’s son and daughter, Austen Suqi ’15, Allie Suqi, and run-

Tampa Bay ChapterAll Alumni we could collect after the Walk Run – Warren Hahn ’60, Chris Thompson ’92, Father Tim Corcoran ’67, Laura Tillinghast-Hine ’97, Steve Swift ’87 (with Bode), Chris Heath ’72, Jesse Maynor ’01, John Sarao ’76.

(There are 4 missing from the picture.)

Tampa Bay Chapter Pres: CAPT Chris Heath ’72, USN (Ret.) p: 813-210-2615; e: christopherheath.fl@gmail.com Communication Director: CAPT Steve Swift ’87, USNR (Ret.) e: sswift@1987.usna.com Sec’y: CDR Leon R. Jablow IV ‘91, USN (Ret.) e: leon.r.jablow@gmail.com 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

Recent Events: Having completed our spring events, we are

Tampa Bay Chapter: All runners/walkers that had finished (and not left yet!)

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 137

CHAPTER NEWS ning friends Patricia Rossie, Holly Logan, Jenny and Alain Watson, Annie Geis, Deanna and Brett Hutchins.

James Castano ’91 and his family represented our chapter and participated in a wreath-laying at America Legion Post 5 on Memorial Day.

Idaho BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Todd Severance ’92, USN (Ret.) p: 208-620-9436; e: tjseverance1992@gmail.com

Northwest Chapter Pres: Raymond Kutch ’63 e: rjkutch@comcast.net

Southern Idaho Chapter Pres: Andrea Hovey ’03 e: andrea.hovey@gmail.com Vice Pres: Paul Campbell ’98 e: Paul.Campbell@1998.usna.com

James Castano ’91 and family at Wreath-laying

Future Events Monthly Meetings Check Us Out Chapter Facebook Page (https://www. facebook.com/pages/USNA-Alumni-TampaStPetersburg/120095454740213?sk=wall), our Website – http://tampabay.usnachapters.net/, and/or our LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin. com/groups/3912975/

Georgia Atlanta Chapter Pres: DJ Marzetta ’94 p: 404-996-7019; e: djmarzetta@gmail.com Website: http://www.usnaaaa.com

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 CDR Fredrick W. Weber ’75, USNR (Ret.) 2134 Evert Ct., Northbrook, IL 60062-6612 h: 847-559-9381; w: 312-845-3444 e: Fred.Weber@2comm.com Website: http://chicago.usnachapters.com

Treas: Dennis Hanrahan ’68 e: dennisdannyehanrahan@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Northern, IL incl Chicago): LCDR Drew Thomas ’04, USNR p: 317 682 8441; drew.thomas@bgo.usna.com

Idaho Parents’ Club President: Nicola McIntosh (Luke ’24) e: themacs97@hotmail.com.

BGO Area Coordinator (Southern, IL): Gene Marquez e: gdsm_marquez@charter.net

The Southern Idaho Chapter (SIC) met in April at Bear Island Brewing for beer tasting social and business meeting. President Andrea Hovey ’03 announced the SIC elections would be held at the May 4th meeting and invited any members interested in leadership positions to let her know.

Also there will be a Run to Honor (Family Run/ Walk Event) at Reid Merrill Park in Eagle with Cody Rome ’12 as the contact. The Class of 2026 Welcome Aboard Picnic will be held on June 18th at Veterans’ Memorial Park.

Attending the meeting were Renee and Mike Coyle ’65, Bill Previty ’65, Joan and Rufus Taylor ’66, Gerre and Steve Berg ’66, Dannye and Dennis Hanrahan ’68, Naty and Tom Neville ’68, Tricia and Russ Stromberg ’69, Mike Kehoe ’71, Ken Vanderhorst ’79, Van States ’91, Paul Campbell ’98, Andrea Hovey ’03 and Cody Rome ’12. It was a good turnout after the long COVID hibernation.

BGO Area Coordinator (Atlanta/North Georgia): Deborah Catrini e: deborah.catrini@gmail.com

Indiana BGO Area Coordinator: Kurt Greggs e: Greggsusnabgo@gmail.com

Indianapolis Chapter CDR Lynn Thomas ’83 h: 317-329-1773; e: lynntw@aol.com

Michiana Chapter Pres: John Ross ’94 e: johnwmross@me.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: John Strauss ’69 e: e:jstrauss3373@att.net

Iowa See Minnesotta Send Shipmate input to: Nathan CW Smith ’98 e: nathancwsmith@outlook.com

BGO Area Coordinator (Southern Georgia): Ryan McDonel e: rmcdonel.usna@gmail.com

BGOArea Coordinator: Ted Olt III ’85 p: 563-355-1709; e: tolt@l-wlaw.com

Hawaii

Kentucky Louisville/Southern Indiana Chapter

Hawaii Chapter National Chapter Trustee: Steve Colon ’81 Pres: Ted Peck ’88 p: 808-371-7514; e: ted.peck@gmail.com Vice Pres: Keno Knieriem ’06 e: keno@honokea.com

Mike Kehoe ’71, Dennis Hanrahan ’68 and Russ Stromberg ’69

Sec’y: Deni Baykan ’04 e: deniz.baykan@mac.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Gregory Reinhardt ’79, USN (Ret.) p: 502-244-7707; e: greinhardt@1979.usna.com

Louisiana

Treas: Tom Marzec ’87 e: tamarzec@gmail.com

Louisiana Chapter

Parent’s Club Pres: Mason Savage (Jacob ’22, Jordan ’24)

Pres: Garrett Miller ’95 p: 985-590-2425, e: torrens.miller@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Jason Afong ’06 e: jason.afong.navy@gmail.com

Vice Pres: Bob Ferrante ’90 p: 985- 237-2091; e: mbrlj5@gmail.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/USNAAA. Honolulu/; https://www.facebook.com/NavalAcademy Hawaii/

Sec’y: Wayne Morgan ’98 e: wayne.morgan@1998.usna.com Bill Previty ’65, Gerre Berg (wife of Steve Berg ’66), and Andrea Hovey ’03

The Southern Idaho Chapter (SIC) meets monthly. Alumni and their spouses/SOs living 138 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Pres: CAPT Gregory Reinhardt ’79, USNR (Ret.) 712 Talon Pl., Louisville, KY 40223 p: 502-244-7707; e: greinhardt@1979.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

CHAPTER NEWS

Maine

Massachusetts

Maine Chapter

Boston Chapter

Pres: Jen Bohr Tyll ’01 e: jenbohrtyll@gmail.com

Pres: James Kras ’69 141 Dorchester Ave., Unit 406, South Boston, MA 02127-1836 p: 617-645-1032; e: jameskras@comcast.net

BGO Area Coordinator: LT Jen Bohr Tyll ’01, USNR p: 207-829-8159; e: jenbohrtyll@gmail.com

Shipmate contact: CAPT Pete Seibert ’65 p: 781-235-5909; e: pkseibert@comcast.net Website: http://boston.usnachapters.com

Maryland Annapolis Chapter

GSMC President Mike Thumm ‘75

Pres: CDR Scott J. Shepard ’91, USN (Ret) p: 540-419-5564; e: scottjshepard@hotmail.com Vice Pres: Michael Rapp ’91 e: michaelrapp999@gmail.com

Treas: Chuck Dixon ’79 e: CBDixon@firstcommand.com Membership: James McNeal ’86 e: jamesm@ispards.com Website: http://annapolis.usnachapters.net

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ 1118214745191/ (or search for: Naval Academy Alumni Annapolis Chapter)

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

Sec’y–Shipmate Contact: Liesel (Danjczek) Schopler ’99 e: lieseldanjczek@hotmail.com

Join the Chapter: https://www.signupnow. events/USNA AlumniChapter_Annapolis/

BGO Area Coordinator (Boston and SE Mass): Kimber Johnston e: Kimber.Johnson@bgo.usna.com

GSMC Secretary Katie Benton (nee Ellefson) ’13 and attendees

BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR Charles Mello e: Charlesmello@gmail.com

Baltimore Chapter Pres: Jason Hardebeck ’87 p: 443-269-1599; e: jhardebeck@whoglue.com

Fourteen members of the Chapter were among the over 65 attendees at the 30th Annual All Academy Charity Golf Challenge at the Blackstone National Golf Club in Sutton, MA outside of Boston. The Challenge brings graduates and friends of the U.S. Military, Naval, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine Academies together for their annual gathering and contest to claim the Challenge trophy.

The titled Ken Kronlund Charity Classic is sponsored by the West Point Society of New England and supports a great cause, “Homes for our Troops”. HFOT’s mission is to build and donate specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 veterans to enable them to rebuild their lives.

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)

Former President Mike DeManss ’73 in a pensive mood

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

Lee Tredway ’71 and Bill Burns ’76 at Golf Tournament.

Website: http://www.navyalumni.org BGO Area Coordinator: Kevin Schaaff e: Kevin.Schaaff@bgo.usna.com

EVENTS 13 April - Spring Social at Brudergarten. Beautiful Weather, Cold Drinks, a good Crowd. What would be a better way to spend a Spring evening!

GSMC Board Member Scott Sanders ‘80

ALUMNI IN THE NEWS: Please see Future Shipmates COMING EVENTS 8/20 – Crabfest ’22, Club 9, Solomons Recreation Center.

9/30 – Fried Falcon Breakfast, Time/ Location TBD 1700, 2nd Wednesday (please note day change) of each month: Chapter Meeting. The Brudergarten, Leonardtown. Please, check your email and the GSMC website www.navyalumni. org for all event updates throughout 2022!

Pete Seibert ’65, Jim Kras ’69 and Vic Otero ’85 at Golf Tournament.

GSMC Membership Chairman Dennis “Ðago” Bostich ‘74

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 139

CHAPTER NEWS

USNA detail at Golf Tournament.

USNA alumni attendees included Kevin Clancy ’69 (past President) and Stan Shustak ’69, Lee Tredway ’71, Bill Burns ’76, Dana Swenson ’79, Vic Otero ’85, John Hogan ’93, Luis Briones ’97, Kenyon Kellogg ’99, J.D. Borrero ‘01, Patrick Leslie ’03, and William Burgess ’06. In addition, Chapter President Jim Kras ’69 and Chapter Corresponding Secretary yours truly ’65 attended serving as scorekeepers.

Overwhelmed by much more numerous USMA grads, we did not win any of the trophies this year. Beat Army, though!

Pete Seibert ‘65

launched, with an integrated event management and payment system. This should make event planning a much smoother process.

In particular, we have a date set for one of our most highly anticipated events of the year: Mike Droogleever ’05’s Alumni Association Boat Tour! Join us on 17 August around 1800 for a cruise down the Detroit River! If you have not received an invite and you are interested in attending, please reach out or go to https:// myusna.com/events/26548 for updates.

In other news, Chapter President Joe Zane ’07 attended ICOF and got to meet with chapter presidents from throughout the country. There have been lots of upgrades to the facilities and

infrastructure around the yard. The new alumni center promises to be a great venue for years to come. Be sure to read the rest of Shipmate for the latest updates.

Finally, an update from our local Eastern Michigan Blue and Gold Area Coordinator, CAPT Micheal Johnson ’79 (Ret.) about a local graduate still in the Navy. LT Chelsea MacGriff ’15 and her E-2 crew came to the Detroit area on a training mission. She used the occasion to fly over her alma mater, Grosse Pointe South High School, and then visit the school to promote USNA and Naval Aviation. CAPT Johnson met the crew at Selfridge ANGB and was able to

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

Michigan Chapter: From left to right: CAPT Michael Johnson ’79 (Ret.), LT Chelsea MacGriff ’15, LTjg Justin Rivera, LTjg Josh Upchurch, LT Joshua Martin ’18, LT Alex Mahoney in front of their E-2 Hawkeye.

Joe Zane (second from the left) represents the Michigan Chapter in Annapolis at the annual International Chapter Officers Forum.

May ended up being a quiet month for in-person gatherings but know that the chapter leadership was not sitting still. We’ve been working hard to build a solid foundation by getting our new MyUSNA site up and running.

By the time you read this, it should have 140 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Michigan Chapter: Last year’s cruise down the Detroit River was a blast. We hope you can join us this year!

CHAPTER NEWS snap an awesome photo. Check out the full story here: https://www.fox2detroit.com/ news/homegrown-naval-pilot-flies-overalma-mater-grosse-pointe-south It’s great to see some younger grads come back home to represent the Naval Academy!

Thank you for reading, and until next time.

Beat Army!

Joe Zane ’07 Chapter President

Minnesota Upper Midwest Chapter Pres: CAPT Ashley Fischer ’11, USMCR p: 240-778-8116; e: aefisch36@gmail.com

candidates to the Naval Academy. Now the good news. The service academies were once again able to have a Memorial Day Service at Jefferson Barracks. (Weather - low 70’s, low humidity, sun shine!) The Army lead the service this May 28. Colonel Kevin R. Golinghorst, a West Point grad, and Commander of the St. Louis Army District was the Keynote speaker.

Others attending were Mike Dunham ’70; Sam Fletcher ’03 with wife Jill, and children Liberty, Chesed, Finn, Bryce, Truman, and Kirk; Kent Higginbotham ’76 with Victoria, Sam Platt ’85; Josh Rich ‘97 along with Teri, Jason, Mason and Jim Rich; Cliff Schoep ’56; and Raese Simpson ‘61 with Ann. It was a special treat to meet Jim Rich, Josh’s Dad, Retired Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman with 32 years of service. BZ Jim!

Cliff Schoep ’56

Shipmate Contact: Nathan CW Smith ’98 e: nathancwsmith@outlook.com Website: www.USNAUpperMidwest.org Facebook: www.fb.com/USNAAAUpperMidwest BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Mark J. Salmen, USN (Ret.) NAIP Area Coordinator-Minnesota 15230 Afton Hills Drive South; Afton, MN 55001-9670 p: 651-436-5842; c: 651-271-669 e: mark.salmen@1973.usna.com; e: mjsalmen@aol.com

Mississippi BGO Area Coordinator: David Price ’78 e: dep-78@sbcglobal.net

Mike Dunham ’70 and friend

Josh Rich ’97 and (Dad) HMCS Jim Rich

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

Pipers

Missouri Greater Kansas City Metro Chapter Pres: Bob Culler ’74 p: 913-488-6319; e: bculler@sbcglobal.net

Montana Sam Fletcher ’03 and Sam Platt ’85

Vice Pres: Victor Hurlbert ’10 p: 816-665-1647; e: victorh@yahoo.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Andy Metroka e: METROKA@MT.NET

Nebraska

Treas: Jack Rush ’73 e: jackrush7376@gmail.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Eric Taylor e: etaylor@1994.usna.com

Website: http://KansasCity.usnachapters.net BGO Area Coordinator: Lee Gilgour e: Gilgour42@gmail.com

Omaha Chapter

St. Louis Chapter

Pres: Jeremiah Binkley ’00 e: jeremiah.binkley@yahoo.com

Pres: Dave Turnbaugh ’89

Website: http://omaha.usnachapters.net/

Website: https://stlusna.com Shipmate contact: Raese Simpson ’61 1138 Westmoor Pl., St. Louis, MO 63131-1320 c: 314-757-1221; e: raese1961@gmail.com BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Kent Higginbotham ’76, USN (Ret.) e: kenth@hbistl.com

New:….

First the sad note, Kent Higginbotham ‘76 advised me that John McKeon ’93 passed away. A DeSmet high school grad, and a Blue and Gold officer who work with Kent introducing

The Sam Fletcher family

READ SEA STORIES Visit usna.com’s History and Tradition page. Have a story to share? Email to seastories@usna.com

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/

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 141

CHAPTER NEWS

New Jersey

New York

Pres: Patrick Hurley ’87 e: patrick.hurley@1987.usna.com

New York Capital District Chapter

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: Ms. Karen Hanthorn-Rhodes e: KBHant@aol.com; p: 505-507-5543 Website: http://newmexico.usnachapters.com BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT David Swingle e: dswingle@newmexico.com

Signs of life are stirring again in New Mexico as planning for our annual family picnic is on track for Sunday June 19th, also Fathers’ Day. Several wildfires around our state have forced the Governor to close many National Forests, where New Mexicans typically spend many of their warm weather weekends engaged in recreation.

However, thus far, the Albuquerque Open Space area where the picnic is scheduled remains in operation. As part of the picnic program, Ken Fladager ’78, our Chapter Treasurer, will provide a briefing covering the highlights of the International Chapter Officers Forum (ICOF) meeting he attended May 11th and 12th in Annapolis.

After decades of care in maintaining the New Mexico Chapter’s official website at http:// newmexico.usnachapters.com, Chapter Webmaster Mike Blackledge ’63 is in the process of transitioning its control to the new webmaster volunteer, Michael Spinello ’13. Those of you who are math majors have quickly assessed that Mr. Spinello’s class and Mr. Blackledge’s classes are exactly 50 years apart. That kismet was realized as Mr. Blackledge participated in the “Link in the Chain” activities, acquiring a “challenge coin” with the class crests of both 1963 and 2013 clad to each side, which he has kept in a place of honor on his desk. Many thanks to Mike B. for working to keep the website info current over these many years. Welcome to Mike S. with many thanks for stepping up to continue this meaningful work.

The annual registration of the New Mexico Chapter of the USNA Alumni Association with the New Mexico Secretary of State as Domestic Nonprofit Corporation #1721935 was completed April 20, 2022.

Pres: Dan Sullivan ’95 p: 585-410-1941; e: daniel.sullivan@savox.com

Pres: Frank Hughes ’80 p: 518-432-9193; e: frankhughes2@yahoo.com

Vice Pres: Pete Owen ’86 p: 949-702-2733; e: pfowen0302@gmail.com

Sec’y: Gordon Lattey 40 First St., Troy, NY 12180 p: 518-274-4989; e: ussslater@aol.com

Website: http://westernny.usnachapters.net/ BGO Area Coordinator: Doug Peters ’73 e: douglastpeters@gmail.com

Website: http://capitaldistrictny.usnachapters.com BGO Area Coordinator: Jeff Hughes e: Jeffrey.M.Hughes1@gmail.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

This year’s Welcome Aboard Event will have been held by the time you are reading this.

Details of the event will be in the next Shipmate.

Alumni, and Navy family and friends are encouraged to attend the weekly Wednesday lunch at 1200 at Clear Path for Veterans in Chittenango, NY when they are again open for business. You can call (315-687-3300) to see if they are open and to let them know if you will be attending a lunch.

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 as they are planned. The Chapter’s website is a good source of current information.

Metro New York Chapter (NAANY) Pres: George O’Garro ’05 e: georgeogarro@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

142 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Western New York Chapter

USNAAA WNY Chapter Hosts 13 Service Academy/ROTC Appointees After a two year hiatus, the Western New York Chapter held its annual dinner recognizing local appointees to the service academies and ROTC scholarship recipients on May 20, 2022, at the Rochester Yacht Club. This year fifteen young men and women, including seven entering the USNA Class of 2026, were honored for their accomplishments and provided a warm sendoff by local alumni, family, and friends. The appointees’ hometowns stretched from central through western New York.

Captain Nate York, USN, Commanding Officer of the NROTC Unit here in Rochester, addressed the attendees. Captain York congratulated the appointees and urged them to make the most of every day.

This event, which began with Naval Academy and West Point alums recognizing those entering their alma maters, has grown to include all five service academies and ROTC scholarship programs. This year sixty people attended.

This year’s guest speaker, USNA alumni, service academy appointees, and ROTC scholarship recipients. Left to right: Captain Nate York, Mike Higgins ’96, Cooper Branch ’26, Connor Gleason ’26, Dan Sullivan ’95, Gordon Gallery ’26, Peter Higgins NROTC, Quinten Rondeau USMMA ’26, Sydney Slazak NROTC, Jeffrey VanAuken NROTC, Luke Blas NROTC, Heami Jones ’26, Colton Mantha ’26, Owen M. Denunzio ’26, Chris Denunzio ’24, Doug Peters ’73, Pete Owen ’86. Not pictured but present: Dick Martineau ’62, Nathan Blish ’69, Chapter Secretary Mark Pedersen, Hannah Dykens USAFA ’26, Valerie Cassalia USAFA ’26, and Zain Nathan USAFA ‘26 (Photo credit: CAPT Mark Pedersen, USN (Ret.)).

CHAPTER NEWS Our chapter’s next meeting will be the Memphis football game viewing on 10 September, location TBD. All alumni and friends of the Naval Academy will be welcome. Please contact us as indicated below for details.

Pres: Dan Sullivan ’95 (585) 410-1941 daniel.sullivan@savox.com VP: Pete Owen ’86 (949) 701-2733 pfowen0302@gmail.com BGO Area Coordinator: Doug Peters ’73 douglastpeters@gmail.com Web page: http://westernny.usnachapters.net/

North Carolina BGO Area Coordinator: Col. Kevin Hart ’75 (Ret.) p: 847-910-4502; e: kevinphart1@gmail.com Cape Fear Chapter: May Lunch

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/Treas: Steve Yandle ’75 e: sryusna75@gmail.com

The first 90 plus temperature days have hit the Cape Fear region. If you own a beach cottage and can hit the surf, this is great news. For the rest of us, lots of hydration whether on the golf course or in the garden! Regardless, the Cape Fear Chapter is charging on.

On 12 April, the Chapter held its “Bring Your Company Mug” (BYCM) social at the Edward Teach Brewery in Wilmington. Guided by the superb leadership of Tom Wolfe ’72, the Chapter turnout was exceptional. Twenty members and many spouses attended this fun summer event.

Reporting for their quarterly “ration of craft beer,” were: Pete Friedman ’58, Alan Smith ’64,

Dave Scheu ’67, Kurt Huff ’75, Steve Rogness ‘75, Deborah and Martin Brittingham ’76, Barb and Mark Hubbard ’76, Gary Boettcher ’78, Geoff Losee ’85, Ed Sullivan ’87, Jay Atkinson ’92, Jim Slaight ’93, Blaine Tonking ’11, and Katherine Drew Marapese ’20. All Class of 1972 members were in attendance: Paul Dahlquist ’72, Ray Decker ’72, Jerry Cameron ’72, Rick Haley ’72, Sharon and Gregg Hamelin ’72, Victoria and Hugh McWilliams ’72, and Tom Wolfe ’72. BZ Tried and True 72!

RADM Ron Henderson, USN (Ret.), Harvard ’76 and former CO of the CV 67 JFK and USS JUNEAU provided an exceptional presentation on the Battle of Guadalcanal during our 10 May Chapter meeting. This naval pitch was enjoyed by John Hicks ’56, Pete Friedman ’58, Alan Smith ’64, Jim Strouse ’66, Dave Scheu ’67, Tom McQueen ’69, Michael Brown ’70, Larry Cleghorn ’70, Paul Smith ’71,

Ray Decker ’72, Rick Haley ‘72, Gregg Hamelin ’72, Hugh McWilliams ’72, Tom Wolfe ‘72, Bart Whitman ’74, Sue and Rich Terpstra ’74, John Casey ’78, Gary Boettcher ’78, Charlie Pangburn ’78, and Jim Slaight ’93.

Summer Cruise 22 – West Pac informal social was held 15 June at the CFCC. More details and photos in next Shipmate of this annual summer gathering.

On a somber note, our Chapter lost Newt Morgan ’69 on 16 April after a long battle with cancer. Always a dependable and reliable shipmate, Newt will be missed by all. Fair seas, dear friend.

The Chapter’s 2022 Calendar of Events is posted on our website: capefearnc.usna chapters.net.

All local graduates, Blue & Gold Officers, and parents of midshipmen or graduates are invited to join the Chapter and participate in our activities. Most lunch meetings are held 1145 at the Cape Fear Country Club on the second Tuesday of the month except when a social or other special event occurs.

All members planning to attend should contact Steve Yandle ’75 (sryusna75@gmail. com) at least 3 days before the meeting so we can coordinate meal count and service support with the Club. Cost is $20 cash at lunch. 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

Cape Fear Chapter: April BYCM Social

Chapter Events Recap: 4/30 Chapter golf outing at Harry L. Jones Sr. course in Charlotte.

Overall great event: fun time, crazy stories, a

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 143

CHAPTER NEWS as sewer systems and other infrastructure are upgraded. He answered questions from the members who are residents of Jacksonville demonstrating detailed understanding of traffic problems throughout. Rob also mentioned the Lejeune Memorial Garden in Jacksonville was highlighted in the May issue of Our State Magazine, a local and very special tribute to the Marines from the bases here.

Rob concluded the meeting indicating that the May meeting will be in New Bern on 26 May and the meeting in Jacksonville will be on 23 June.

The meeting adjourned at 1330.

Charlotte Chapter: Golf Outing at Harry L. Jones Sr. course in Charlotte

few good shots, and a few bad. Members who attended, Tom Murach ’69, Kevin Hollis ’85, Graham Rogers ’87, Chris Nickels ’91, Zeb Daniel ’07, Adam Kimball ’08 and Jay Price ’14.

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://easternnc.usnachapters.com

Army-Navy in Charlotte? It could happen in 2027 Charlotte is among several cities bidding to host the 2027 Army-Navy game, including Chicago and Dallas.

“Being in consideration to host the Army Navy game is exciting for Charlotte and the region,” said Danny Morrison, CSF executive director. “With the state’s military history and the city’s ability to host world-class events, we believe the Charlotte Sports Foundation has a compelling case to bring America’s Game to Charlotte.”

144 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

April Meeting The meeting convened at the Officers Club, MCB, Camp Lejeune, at 1200 on 28 April 2022. Seventeen (17) members and guests were present.

Mr. Rob Skrotsky ’67, president opened the meeting with a moment of silence for military personnel and members who are deployed, and for their loved ones awaiting their return and for the people of Ukraine.

He welcomed all guests and members. He stated that he was planning to attend the ICOF in Annapolis on 12 May. He also noted that Navy football plays ECU in Greenville on 24 Sept. The transition to MyUSNA as the Alumni Association primary web based communications tools was briefly discussed by Aaron Adams ’95. Randy Bogle ’68, treasurer reported the bank balance.

Rick Kunkel ’67, vice-president, introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Sammy Phillips, Mayor of Jacksonville, NC. Mr. Phillips then discussed how he has been associated with the city for many years, starting as a police officer, then as assistant chief of police and then as a member of the city government. He has been mayor for several years. He says that his cooperative arrangements with the county, the military bases, the chamber of commerce, and the board of education of Onslow County have made improvements feasible. He sees the future is bright and the city improving and expanding

May Meeting The meeting convened at 1200, 26 May at La Rosa’s Italian Restaurant in New Bern which opened just for the chapter lunch. Twenty-one (21) members and guests were present.

Mr. Rob Skrotsky ’67, President, greeted the guests and started by asking for a moment of silence and prayer for military personnel who are deployed, for their families awaiting their safe return, for those that are grieving and for the people of Ukraine.

Randy Bogle ’68, Treasurer, reported the bank balance. The chapter area does not have dedicated BGO but there are 3 members of the class of 2026 from this area.

Rob discussed his recent visit to USNA for the ICOF. He showed a vu-graph of the class of 2022 service assignments. There were quite a few “restricted line” assignments that were not available when most of us were midshipmen. It was mentioned by the alumni present that these assignments were previously made after an Ensign or JG tour and had been aboard a ship and then applied for one of these specialties.

The Superintendent addressed the group and high on his list of concerns is the problem with flooding in the yard. They also heard from the Commandant and the Director of Admissions.

Rob next introduced the speaker Rob D’Angelo, an economic and investment advisor previously of Atrius-Capital. Mr. D’Angelo, with a break while lunch was served, discussed the performance and outlook for the economy with several interesting graphs and charts. He noted that it is unusual for both the stock market and the bond market to be affected by the current downturn. He noted that inflation, the international issues such as the conflict in Ukraine, the uncertainties in Asia also play a part. He feels the best course is to just observe and not make any big changes in one’s portfolio. He was asked about the condition of the banking industry which he thinks is in decent shape. In response to one of the many questions Mr. D’Angelo pointed to the increased earnings available in US Government i-bonds. He says these are an interesting route, but need to be run by one’s investment advisor.

CHAPTER NEWS Rob announced the next meeting will be at Camp Lejeune on 23 June, and back in New Bern on 28 July.

The meeting adjourned at about 1330 Tim Marvin ‘59 Secretary

North Carolina Triangle Chapter Pres: CAPT Steve Gillespie ’87, USN (Ret.) e: smgillespie44@gmail.com Sec’y: Chris Perrien ’74 e: ibmchris@mac.com National Chapter Trustee; CDR George Lipscomb ’87, USN (Ret.) Website: www.usnatriangle.com

Greetings from the Research Triangle Park of North Carolina, Our chapter enjoyed the Holiday 2021 carry-on earned by the outstanding 17-14 upset over the Black Knights. 74+ grads gathered in Raleigh for our 1st Navy-only (due to CV19 precautions) family viewing party with luncheon buffet, bounce-house for the children, half-time raffle with prizes. Grads in attendence included: George & Karyn Lipscomb ’87, Dave & Pam Ruden ’87, Kirk Williams ’88, Reece Morgan ’88, Shaun ’93 & Chris McAndrew, Bill Coleman ’95, Natash Robinson Sistrunk ’02, Matt Baker ’06, Matt Gieszl ’08, Matt Minor ’09, Kim Hanson ’09, Lauren ’09 & Pat Wilson ’09, Gray Tompson ’09, Jason Mazzoni ’10, Alex Dworjan ’10, Andrew Faulkner ’10, Lizandra Casrto ’13, Christopher Ferguson ’15, Irene Wadley ’23 (Parent), Christopher Ferguson ’15, Steve Gillespie ’87, Sankey Blanton ’71, Warren ’71 & Elise Schultz, Gary Stasco ’71, Dr. Bob Adams ’73, LD Newby ’78, Stan Bashaw ’81, Mike McGuire ’81, Jenifer ’82 & Dave ’81 Clement, Tom Clemons ’82, James Walter ’87 and Steve Gillespie ’87.

In late December, we were honored to receive our 5th consecutive Distinguished Chapter Award which reflects the increasing popularity of the RTP to transitioning and retiring grads as well their consistent support for a range of events and activities designed to appeal to all graduates and their families.

Our monthly virtual luncheon series resumed in January with Captain Reece Morgan ’89 USN (Ret.) discussing the three operations in progress for modernizing our Navy’s communications and IT networks. As a senior project executive with Verizon, he overviewed plans and programs under the new enterprise networks contract, IDIQ. Grads in attendance included: Steve Gillespie ’87, Shawn McAndrew ’93, Girad Lew ’60, Steve Moran, Perry Taylor ’71, Chris Perrien ’74, Dave Ruden ’87, Bill Sena ’95, George Lipscomb ’87, Tom Clemons ’82, Emory Miller ’09, Bonny Podiak ’89, LD Newby ’78 and Steve Moran ’81.

Our Chapter celebrated the Dark Ages with the 2nd virtual luncheon of the new year. Hopes

are high that we may resume in 2023 our ever-popular in-person Dark Ages Dinners.

Chapter President Steve Gillespie ’87 briefed participants on the recently conducted Alumni Survey as well as other topics of interest and activity in the Yard including: policies for continued adherence to the Brigade’s Honor Code; Tamanend as the restored name of the Tecumseh statue; academic policy re teaching of social issues, past and present; Brigade attrition statistics; and the Federal Naming Commission assessing buildings in the Yard. Grads joining included: Dave ’80 and Jenifer Clement ’81, Tom Clemons ’82, Steve Gillespie ’87, Phil Dana ’98, Jim Kinney ’60, Lew Girard ’60, Tommy Martinez ’78, Mike McQuire ’81, Chris Mendez ’96, Reece Morgan ’88, Chris Perrien ’74, Warren Schultz ’71, Ken Smith ’66, Perry Taylor ’71.

The Naval Academy Women’s Golf Team passed through the RTP for a series of spring leave events. Thanks to Jeremy Mario (Gretchen ’20), the team enjoyed a round with Chapter members at the challenging Old Chatham Country Club. How simple they make a complicated game look to play. As well, they are an outstanding group of midshipmen.

In May, we elected our 2022-23 Board of Directors. Hail to all and thank you for assuming the operational responsibilities for our Chapter.

President, Steve Gillespie ’87; Vice President, Shaun McAndrew ’93; Secretary, Chris Perrien ’4; Treasurer, George Lipscomb ’87; Director, Tommy McNamara ’11; Director, Brad Osmun ’08; Director, Bonnie Podiak ’89. Farewell and a ‘job well done’ to departing Board members:

Triangle Chapter: Navy Women’s Golf Team, Durham, North Carolina

North Carolina Triangle Chapter - Hall of Fame inductees

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 145

CHAPTER NEWS Mike Kapsch ’76, Bill Sena ’95, Gray Tompson ’07 and Lauren Wilson ’09.

Department of Bravo Zulu Captain Ted ‘Hawk’ Triebel ’64 USN (Ret.) inducted as a member of the inaugural class of the North Carolina Military Hall of Firsts. Among his many achievements and recognitions include: Navy Crew; F-4 aviator; Bronze Stars (2), Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart and Legion of Merit; USNA Chief of Staff. Both his military and community services supply purposeful example for us all.

Dr. Alisha Malloy ’90 accepted the position of Academic Dean at our Naval Academy Prep School. Alisha’s experience at North Carolina Central University and within the education community of the Research Triangle Park will bring relevant and valuable leadership to NAPS. Recognized for the 5th consecutive year as a Distinguished Chapter in the USNA AA network, our Triangle Chapter comprises 165+ active members from eight decades of USNA classes, their families and a growing set of supporters (parents, friends, all-Navy veterans and families). To view the schedule of future events, please visit https://www.usnatriangle.com or follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ USNAAARTP/.

Linked-in: USNA Alumni Association-Triangle Chapter (USNAAA Triangle).

Cincinnati Chapter: From L to R: Parents are the Dunn’s, Krug’s, Colley’s, Martin’s, Cashell’s and Lotterer’s

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

Piedmont Triad Chapter

Website: http://www.usnacinci.org

Pres: Tom Cornejo ’00 e: thomas.cornejo@yahoo.com

BGO Area Coordinator: Bryan Grubert e: bryan.grubert@gmail.com

Sec’y: Josh Fogle ’03 e: foglejw@gmail.com

North Dakota

The Naval Academy Parent’s Club had their spring get together to celebrate the upcoming graduation of all midshipmen from the greater Cincinnati area in the Class of 2022.

event which will be supported by the local chapters of the Alumni Association and the Navy League will be the new Plebe picnic on Sunday, June 5 at the Tri-State Warbird Museum.

Parents of the graduating midshipmen were presented with flags that had flown over the capital at the request of the congressional sponsor who had appointed each midshipman.

These included Congressional Representatives Chabot, Wenstrup, and Davidson as well as Senators Brown and Paul. See above photo of the proud parents.

At this event, leadership passed from the graduating class of 2022 parents to parents of the classes of 2023-2025. Representatives of the local Alumni Chapter and the Navy League were present and spoke briefly to the attendees about the long chain of support coming from their respective organizations.

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

2022 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Follow Navy Football at: navysports.com

3 SEPT 10 SEPT 24 SEPT 1 OCT 8 OCT 14 OCT 22 OCT 29 OCT 5 NOV 12 NOV 19 NOV 3 DEC 10 DEC

vs Univ. of Delaware vs Memphis @ East Carolina (Greenville, NC) @ Air Force (USAF Academy ,CO) vs Tulsa @ SMU (Dallas, TX) vs Houston vs Temple @ Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH) — Notre Dame (Baltimore, MD) @ UCF (Orlando, FL) — AAC Championship TBA vs Army (Philadelphia, PA) 1-800-US4-NAVY

146 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

L to R: Tom Schram (past president of the AA chapter), Barb Krug (member of the outgoing Parent’s Club leadership team), and Steve Drefahl (President of the local U.S. Navy League Chapter).

The Parent’s club is supported by the local chapter of the USNA Alumni Association as well as the local council of the Navy League.

The Parents Club has their own website and conducts various functions through the year with a leadership team being named as their mids move through the Academy. The next

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

CHAPTER NEWS

Instagram: USNAAACbus

officers or board members about attending ICOF next May. As of the writing of this article, the exact date for the 2022 USNA Founders Day has not been finalized. It is safe to say that the dinner will be on a Thursday evening in September and most likely at the National Veterans Memorial & Museum. Because of COVID, we were not able to properly celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the founding of USNA in 2020. As long as we are not experiencing a COVID resurgence, we are going to try to make up for lost time and execute a celebration you won’t want to miss.

Stay on the lookout for an announcement concerning the event details once they have been firmed up.

Parents’ Club President: Eric Forrest e: Ea4rest@gmail.com

Toledo Chapter

Columbus Pres: CDR Tony Konecny ’79, USN (Ret.) e: adkonecny79@gmail.com Vice Pres: Ben Sandman ’10 e: bensandman2@gmail.com Sec’y: Dave Goins ’84 e: dgoins84@gmail.com Treas: Jim Waddell ‘71 e: jbwaddell@columbus.rr.com Shipmate Contact: CDR Tony Konecny ’79, USN (Ret.) e: adkonecny79@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/

BGO Area Coordinator: Carla Dowling-Fitzpatrick e: dowlingfitzpatrick@sbcgolbal.net

Because we had such a great time in November 2021, the Chapter gathered again at the Upper Arlington Wine Bistro on May 3, 2022 for a Chapter Pub Night. In attendance were Tony Konecny ’79, Dave Goins ’84, Jim Worthington ’60, Doug ’68 & Elice Little, Tom ’70 & Libby Gomia, Chuck ’71 & Jeanne Janes, Dave ’78 & Nancy Guza, ADM Kristen ’91 Fabry & Tim Vanas.

The Columbus Chapter completed its dues campaign on March 31, 2022. $2100 in dues plus additional donations were contributed by 59 alumni and friends. In addition to some minor administrative expenses, dues are used primarily to offset some of the costs of the Founders Day dinner and to provide scholarships to allow students with financial needs to attend USNA Summer Programs (STEM and Summer Seminar.) This year a scholarship was granted to Alisha Khan of Hilliard to attend NASS. If you have not paid your 2022 dues, we are still accepting Zelle payments (usnaaacbus@ gmail.com) and checks.

Jim ’71 & Debby Waddell attended the International Chapter Officers Forum (ICOF) at Annapolis on May 11-12. ICOF provides the opportunity for chapter officers to get together in one location to discuss chapter best practices and get updated on Naval Academy activities and gather information that can be taken back to the chapter. The Columbus Chapter is committed to sending one person to ICOF every year that is interested in being an active chapter participant. If you want to become more active in the Chapter, talk to one of the Chapter

Pres: CDR Meghan Michael ’97, USN (Ret.) e: meghanmichael@me.com BGO Area Coordinator: Mr. Arthur Wickerham e: artwickerham@gmail.com

Oklahoma BGO Area Coordinator: Mike Whaley e: mwhaley@ossaa.com

Oklahoma City Chapter Pres: Jonathan Mason ’07 e: jrmason03@gmail.com

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

We are pleased to announce that our Chapter is officially recognized by the IRS and State as a 501c3. We are excited about this designation as we continue to grow with supporting our mission, alumni and other philanthropic efforts.

Speaking of which, our chapter awarded the Ernest Evans Award (Mameluke) sword to Oklahoma University’s top NROTC student in Leadership, Midshipman 1/C Callahan Kelly ’22 who was commissioned into the Marine Corps during the ceremony. Picture is our chapter member, Jim Farrell ’99 awarding the sword that was underwritten by Brian Berryman ‘86, George Carradini ’84, Kasey Carradini ’84, Rocky Goins ’84 and Fred Dorwart ‘59 . Tulsa’s Chapter sponsors this award every year to enhance our relationship with the NROTC unit, and the Tulsa Community Foundation donates their service to secure the ceremonial sword.

During May, out chapter joined Tulsa’s Alumni Chapter of the U.S. Air Force Academy and West Point for the Tulsa Oiler Hockey game.

We must have brought the team luck as they won with 6 goals, earning each of us a free milk shake at a local restaurant!

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 National Chapter Trustee: LtCol Doug Ballard ’74, USMCR (Ret.) e: Cassandra.alpha61@comcast.net BGO Area Coordinator: Capt. Jill Richards e: gillianac@comcast.net Website: oregon.usnachapters.net

Our April luncheon was scheduled to have Capt. Don Walsh speak, but due to an injury we had to reschedule Capt. Walsh. The meeting featured a book review “Midnight in Chernobyl” presented by Mike Carmichael ’69 and a discussion of our upcoming picnic by John Adams ‘69. Present for the presentation were JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 147

CHAPTER NEWS Mike Carmichael ’69, John Adams ’69, Scott Fitzpatrick ’80, Mark Cooksey 71, Doug Ballard ’74, Tex Harkins ’67, Butch Bewick ’62, Jim Unger ’53, Lee Hall ’80, Jack Kohl 65, Herb Columb ’67, Hod Wells ’59, Doug Bomarito ’68, Golf McCully USAFA ’63 and Tony Lash VMI. Our May luncheon was a pure social event with president John Adams ’69 leading a discussion on the chapter picnic to be held on July 23 at Parker’s Landing in Washougal, Wa. Present were John Adams ’69, Scott Fitzpatrick ’80, Buch Bewick ’62, Tex Hawkins ’67, Jack Kohl ’65, Doug Bomarito ’68, Michael Seiwald ’73, Mark Cooksey ’71, Lee Hall ’80, Tim Myers ’64, Geoff McCarthy USAFA ’63.

We also continued our weekly Zoom Happy Hours. Participants in March and April included Mike Carmichael ’69, John Adams ‘69, Doug Ballard 74, John Frerichs ‘50, David Lutes ‘63, Janette Sandberg ‘96, Tim Myers ’64, Jack Kohl ’65, Mark Cooksey ’71, Ted Scypinski ’90, Shelly Liscom, President of the Parents Club.

RV Chapter: Fredericksburg, TX Comearound

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: Del Becker ’85 p: 717-537-5732; e: delbecker@gmail.com Sec’y: Tim Farrell ’76 e: Tim Farrell@1976.usna.com Treas: Charlie Perkins ’71 e: CharlesPerkins71@gmail.com Website: http://www.usnasvc.com BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Matt Chabal ’77 e: chabal@1977.usna.com Doug Bomarito ’68

Lastly the chapter started a new tradition for Memorial Day. Doug Bomarito ’68 is President of the Oregon Vietnam Veterans Memorial and presided over its memorial service. We are encouraging chapter members to attend the Memorial Day service. Attending this year, in addition to Doug were Mike Carmichael ’69, Ed Hepp ’67, Butch Bewick ’62, and Todd Washburn ’93.

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 Shipmate sec’y: Jennifer Stone p: 202-909-5676; e: jastone0330@gmail.com Website: www.rv.usnachapters.net Facebook: USNA RV CHAPTER

Pennsylvania Philadelphia Chapter Pres: Rob Bender ’73 p: 267-625-3459; e: rbender@travismanion.com Website: http://philadelphia.usnachapters.net

The USNA RV Chapter saw two delightfully fun and interesting Comearounds this April and May. In April, Chapter participants enjoyed Texas Hill Country in historic Fredericksburg, Texas followed by a trip in May to Tuscan, Arizona.

BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Tim Farrell ’76, USN (Ret.) e: tim.farrell@1976.usna.com

We hosted our 60th Annual Parents’ Night Dinner May 12 at Sandy Run Country Club to welcome aboard the Class of 2026 from the Philadelphia area. Tom Bonner ’76 and Tim Farrell ’76 were on hand to represent their Another Link in the Chain class. Erin Finley ’22 won the Chuday Award for being the Midshipman in the graduating class from the Philadelphia area with the highest military order of merit.

Philadelphia Chapter: Parents’ Night Dinner

148 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Our Fredericksburg, Texas Comearound had great turnout with eight (8) RV’s, many of which were first time Chapter attendees.

Attending were Tom ‘70 and Rose Wolfe, Michael ’87 and Jennifer Weiner, Bob ’70 and Libby Perch, Drew ’85 and Talisa Jones, Jim Swoope ‘70, Bill Moore ’72, Marc Ferris ’70 and JJ Tucker and as Firsties, Dale ’70 and Su Gange. We also had several local guests stop by during the week, Bill ’63 and Dee Bradford, Pete ’70 and Sue Pattrick, and Kenneth Wallace ‘78.

Little did we know that an amazing itinerary of events were to come. Our first day was a visit to, our 36th President, Lyndon B. Johnson’s Ranch. The LBJ Ranch afforded us a tour of the house where we learned about LBJ’s request that significant visitors sign concrete stones – of noted significance were the many Apollo astronauts. Pictured is the stone signed by Alan Shepard of the first manned spacecraft, the Freedom 7.

Fredericksburg hails a deep German heritage that we experienced together through traditional German fare at a noted local restaurant.

CHAPTER NEWS

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: Bob Van Buren ’63 e: bobjanvb@aol.com Website: http://csra.usnachapters.com

Charleston Chapter RV Chapter Tucson, AZ Comearound

Comearound. Attending were Tom ’70 and Rose Wolfe, Norman ‘60 and Liz Mims, Bill Moore ’72, and as Firsties Dale ’70 and Su Gagne.

The first day, the USNA grads visited the Pima Air & Space Museum, proving to exceed expectations, particularly for our Naval Aviator, Bill Moore ’72, where he was able to share his experience flying the F4 Phantom. The group followed onto Davis Monthan – Tucson Air Force base for a close drive by of the airplane boneyard.

Throughout the week, the group enjoyed a fabulous steak dinner, Mexican dinner, the Chapter’s notorious “Margarita Night” and pot luck dinner.

This group loves our dinners!

Our final day we went to the Amerind Museum, dedicated to the research on the Indian culture of the Southwest by a family who settled into the area in the 1930’s.

Both Comearounds concluded with a traditional singing of “Blue and Gold”!

A few of us opted to burn off the previous evening’s German indulgences with an 8 mile morning bike ride the following day. After recovering from our morning workout, we enjoyed an escorted tour of the “National Museum of the Pacific War.” This museum is a “must visit” for not just World War II history buffs, but particularly those with an affinity for US Naval history as Fredericksburg is the boyhood home of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz.

A few of us traveled on to Tucson, Arizon, while meeting up with local Chapter members for a smaller, more casual, “RV Chapter” feeling

Rhode Island

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

On Monday, May 16, The Charleston Chapter held its Monthly Meeting. Our Speaker was Bill Walsh, Channel 5 Chief Meteorologist (and LtCOL, USAFR (Ret.).

In Attendance were: Max Hill ‘51; Fuzzy Knight ‘53; Nancy Loveless (Don) ‘55; Jim Flatley ‘56; Dave Morgan ‘58; Jerry Cooper ‘60; John Nuernberger ‘64; John Common ‘64; Chuck Meyer ‘68; Greg Wood ‘68; Tom Gillespie ‘69; Gary Maxwell ‘69; Mike Bosse ‘74; Ron Malec ‘74; Dave Shimp ‘76; Rick Stein ‘82; Jeff Gordon ‘83; Seamus Flatley ‘83; and Wes Smith ’90.

The Golf Outing was played at the Wescott Plantation Golf Club, celebrating Rick Stein ’82 40th Anniversary of his Pay Entry Base Date (PEBD) 26MAY82!

The Charleston Chapter meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 12 Noon in Mount Pleasant. No reservation required.

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

DONATE ONLINE Support the Annual Fund, visit usna.com and click Give Online.

Charleston Chapter Golf Outing, left to right: Dennis Simon ‘77, Ray Setser ‘65, George Watt ‘73, Rick Stein ‘82, Charlie Young ‘70, Kirk Donald ‘75, Curt Holcomb ‘61 JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 149

CHAPTER NEWS 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

Guests at the Low Country Spring Luncheon 2022 enjoying the buffet from the Sippin’ Cow at the Bostwick Pavilion at the Moss Creek Marina

Low Country Chapter Pres: Tom Cavanaugh ’69 p: 516-220-9896 e: tomcusna69@gmail.com VP: Dave Igyarto ’74 e: igyartodp@icloud.com Sec’y: Tim Johnson ‘02 p: 843-715-2664 e: tim.w.Johnson@outlook.com Treas: John Scanlan '83 p: 843-342-2793; e: ping1@hargray.com

Greetings from the Low Country. As we head into mid-year here in southern South Carolina and northern Georgia there is a good deal to report already accomplished by the chapter and more still to come.

In early March, the USNA Combined Glee Club stopped in as part of their spring break tour and performed on Hilton Head at First Presbyterian Church. Chapter members and parishioners helped host all the midshipmen during the visit and the mids put on a great concert to a packed house again this year. A big thank you to the Glee Club for performing and to Don Nelson and Dr. Aaron Smith for bringing the Glee Club to Hilton Head.

On 2 April 2022, we held our Annual Spring Luncheon at the Bostwick Pavilion at the Moss Creek Marina. We had approximately sixty people in attendance counting alumni and their guests. Art Morrow ’46 and Harry Gardner ’95 represented the senior and junior classes present. Thank you to CAPT Bo Johns ’95, Deputy Commandant for Professional Development for traveling down and for being a wonderful speaker.

Good food and fellowship were had by all.

In May, the Chapter conducted its annual elections. The elected slate of officers for the 2022-23 year is as follows: President: Tom Cavanaugh ’69 VP/Pres Elect: Dave Igyarto ’74 Secretary: Tim Johnson ’02 Treasurer: John Scanlan ’83 Director: Megan Williams ’93

150 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Director: Harry Gardner ’95 Director: Don Baldwin ’74 Director: Doug Ogden ’67 Director/Webmaster: Rich Weidman ’63 By the time this issue gets to print, we will also have had our June quarterly luncheon.

Looking ahead to some upcoming events: 20 September 2022 we will have a quarterly luncheon at Frankie Bones in Bluffton, SC. Start time is 1130AM. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to Dave Igyarto ’74 (igyartodp@icloud.com) so we can provide a headcount to the venue.

1 October 2022 we will have a Navy vs Air Force watch party. Time and location is TBD. 11 November 2022 we will be placing flags at Beaufort National Cemetery. Time is TBD. Typically, we meet for lunch following, but a location is also TBD. 10 December 2022 we will have an Army Navy watch party at R Bar & Grill in Bluffton.

Time is TBD.

Left to Right Harry Garner ’95, Art Morrow ’46, CAPT Bo Johns ’95 at the Low Country Spring Luncheon 2022

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

Spain BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Trubeville 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: Richard “Scott” Jones ’00 9935 Penneywood Ln., Ooltewah, TN 37363 p: 804-363-3589; e: rsjones23@hotmail.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: CAPT Mark Kohring ’73, USNR (Ret.) e: mark_kohring@mac.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 takes pleasure in congratulating the Class of 2022 graduates from east Tennessee. This includes 2nd LT Ryan Desjarlais, USMC pilot; ENS Kensley Henry, Surface Warfare; ENS Seth Howell, Aerospace Maintenance Duty Officer; ENS Max Klischies, Surface Warfare; 2nd LT Elizabeth Twohig, USMC Ground; and 2nd LT Matt Williams, USMC Ground. Matt Williams of Signal Mountain is the 2022 recipient of the RADM Samuel P. Carter award as the top ranked graduating midshipman from east Tennessee. Matt will receive a check for $400.

Since he could not be present for the picnic, he sent a message that was read to the incoming Class of 2026 at the Welcome Aboard picnic.

The annual Welcome Aboard Picnic for the Class of 2026 was held Saturday, June 4, 2022, at Founder’s Park at Campbell Station in Farragut.

The picnic began with the introduction of Molly Welch, Sale Creek Academy; Sarah Geibig,

CHAPTER NEWS

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: Dave Driskell ’63 p: 210-275-4011; e: daved@frand.com

Austin Chapter Pres: Brad Holbrook ’06 p: 410-718-8839; e: bradley.holbrook@gmail.com Knoxville-Oak Ridge Chapter: Lynn Casity ’85, Matthew Sterchi ’26, Shawn Tallant ’78, David Azhocar ’14, Molly Welch ’26, Bruce Bevard ’76, Sarah Geibig ’26, Scott Goodson ’76, Al Henry ’56, Andy Waldmann ’01, Anna Hoang ’24, Matthew Sterchi ’26, Molly Welch ’26, Bruce Bevard ’76, Sarah Geibig ’26, Scott Goodson ’76, Andy Waldmann ’01 Craig Toney ’00, Otto Stutz ’81, Rich Cataldi ’69, Ernie Gonzales ’81, Rudy Escher ’78 and Ed Whiting ‘57

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 Pres: Clif Colbert ’09 e: pres@usnaaa-ntx.com 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

Knoxville-Oak Ridge Chapter: Matthew Sterchi ’26, Molly Welch ’26, Bruce Bevard ’76, Sarah Geibig ’26, Scott Goodson ’76 and Andy Waldmann ’01

Bearden High School; Matthew Sterchi, Christian Academy of Knoxville; and Nathan Recheck, Farragut High School who was represented by his parents. Other east Tennessee Class of ’26 appointees include Maggie Johnson, Jefferson County HS and Bannon Ireton, Hamilton County HS. Scott Goodson ’76 gave the Another Link in the Chain (ALITC) presentation to the Class of ’26.

He was joined by his classmate Bruce Bevard ’76 and Andy Waldmann ’01. This was the first time that the ALITC Class (50 years senior) invited the 25-year senior class to join them. The philosophy is to include a class that included women and had graduated more recently. Paula Treece introduced the appointee’s parents to the USNA Parent’s web page and our East Tennessee website. Paula is uniquely qualified to speak to parents as she has a daughter at USNA Class of ’23, a daughter at USAFA Class

of ’24, and her son will be joining the USMA Class of ’26. Anna Hoang ’24 encouraged the appointees that the COVID environment is much less restrictive than when she entered as a plebe in 2020. She talked about her upcoming Midshipman trip to Vietnam and her submarine cruise scheduled for this summer.

Welcome to the Class of 2026 from the North Texas Alumni! In April and May we enjoyed some camaraderie with our monthly breakfast in April and our lunch in May. In April, several shipmates gathered to grab chow and share some sea stories over breakfast. The crew noted the chipped beef was just slightly better than King Hall’s. In attendance were Jason Nunez ’96, Dave Miller ’65, William Dixon ’68, Andy Kirby ’99, Leon Chester ’65 and our VP of Programs, Carrie Murdoch ’99.

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

April Breakfast

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

Dave Miller ’65 animates the photo as Distinguished Graduate, JD Messinger ’81 wraps up the May lunch

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 151

CHAPTER NEWS

L to R: UK Chapter president Tim Fox ’97, Mike Widmann ’00 (he and Tim played lacrosse together while at Navy), Simon Clark (father of LT Michael Clarke ’18), and Phil Ehr, a retired EP-3 pilot and longtime associate member of the chapter.

United Kingdom Chapter: Twenty-three alumni turned out to greet the SECNAV and his wife when they visited London earlier this spring, making this alumni event one of our best yet.

At our May luncheon led by our President Clif Colbert ’09, we were treated to the insights and perspectives of Distinguished Graduate, JD Messinger ’81. JD is a new member of the North Texas Alumni Association and is the founder of the Messinger Institute. Along with a distinguished professional career that extended from serving as a nuclear submarine officer to the CEO of Ernst & Young Consulting South East Asia, JD authored the book 11 Days in May. JD shared his insight and perspective with North Texas alumni and their guests.

As we push through another warm Texas summer, we encourage North Texas Alumni to start preparing for Navy football’s visit to Dallas in the fall! On Friday, 14 October, Navy will play SMU at Ford Stadium. Check out our website for event details. We hope to see you there!

Go Navy!

Semper Fidelis-LIVE IT!

Texas Gulf Coast Chapter Pres: Bill Pritchett ’01 Vice Pres: Jordan Mack ‘08 Sec’y: John Augusto ’02 e: m020234@2002.usna.com Treas: Rich Bulger ’69 e: rlbulger69@gmail.com Website: txgulfcoast.usnachapters.net

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 email: naples98@gmail.com

Greetings from London, where Spring has finally sprung! Flowers are blooming, everyone is complaining about the most recent heatwave (translation: temps over 70°F), and chapter activities are finally on the rise.

A few weeks ago, the UK Chapter was pleased and proud to host the Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro ’83, and his lovely wife, Betty, for an evening of good food and enlightening conversation. The gathering was held at the new Waterloo branch of Passyunk Avenue, home of all things Navy and the best Philly cheesesteaks on the side of The Pond.

After spending time speaking one-on-one with many of the alumni present, Mr. Del Toro addressed the group before taking individual questions. He covered an array of topics, including the current conflict in Ukraine, operational readiness, and efforts to take care of active duty Sailors and Marines worldwide.

Notwithstanding the warm welcome and unmatched conviviality shown by the UK Chapter, one of the highlights of the trip, the SECNAV said, was the opportunity to tour Churchill’s War Rooms in downtown London, accompanied by Winston Churchill’s own grandson.

More than 30 grads and their guests turned out for the evening to welcome the Del Toros, and the UK Chapter was pleased to prove those immortal words: But still when two or three shall meet And old tales be retold From low to highest in the Fleet We’ll pledge the Blue and Gold!

Utah Intermountain Alumni Chapter Pres. Robert Allen ’67 e: ba@robertallen.org Vice Pres. Ryam 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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USNAAATxGC/ Email: txgulfcoast.usnachapters@gmail.com BGO Area Coodinator: Don Link e: cdr.dlink@gmail.com

SHOP. CONNECT. ENJOY!

UPDATE YOUR PROFILE Log into Online Community at usna.com to update your profile.

152 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

L to R: ENS Michelle Silver ’21, ENS Lillian Usadi ’21, SECNAV Carlos Del Toro ’83, and Henry Aszklar ’81.

Michelle and Henry are studying toward degrees at Cambridge; Lillian is working on a degree at Oxford.

Shop through our Amazon Partnership portal. usna.com/amazon

CHAPTER NEWS

Central Virginia Chapter: Spring All-Services Golf Classic at Old Trail Golf Club in Crozet, VA

Virginia Central Virginia Chapter Pre: 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

SHIPMATES: On Wednesday May 4, the Central Virginia Chapter joined the West Point Society of Monticello, and other veterans and friends for the Spring All-Services Golf Classic at Old Trail Golf Club in Crozet, VA. Two man Captain’s Choice Format ensured that the 22 participants pictured here quickly overcame shanks, duffs, yips, and chili dips. We had excellent conditions for the first nine with cloud cover holding the sun at bay, the clouds left for a muggy finish but we were rewarded with glorious views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

NAVY’S team consisted of Jack Renard ’55, Alan Swinger ’66, Jeff Bust ’75, Mark Metcalf ’76, CB Morgan ’83, Bill Murray ’83, Patrick Hamilton ’10, CAPT Mark Swinger, USN, and UVA NROTC team - CDR Pat Funk, USN and Capt Michael Downing, USMC. It was a beautiful day with great course conditions. We used stableford scoring for this tournament (4 points for eagle, 3 for birdie, 2 for par and 1 for bogey). The Navy/Marine Corps team captured two of the TOP 3 prizes: 1st Place - Alan and Mark Swinger (42), and 3rd Place - Jeff Bust and Patrick Hamilton (37).

Navy took all of the Closest to Pin winners, and also Straightest Drive, with Bill Murray taking two closest to the pins, Mark Swinger had the straightest drive and one closest, while CB Morgan took the last closest to the pin. Army

outmanned Navy 12 to 10, and proving to be valiant opponents took 2nd place with a 40 by Bill Pavlick and Jay Dymek.

GO NAVY! CB Morgan ’83

Hampton Roads Chapter Pres: Renee Reedy ’81 e: reedy81@usnahamptonroads.com h: 757-312-8969; w: 757-328-0030

Force to ensure health care workers got what they needed when they needed it. At that meeting our newly elected 2022-2024 Board of Directors was announced: Officers are President Renee Reedy ’81, 1st VP Ted Digges ’85, 2nd VP/Membership Chair Dick Enderly ’71, Secretary Pete Haglich ’82, Treasurer Ashley Kampfe ’98, and Chapter Trustee Mark Rupprecht ’76. Directors are Vince Bowhers ’85, Shalimar Brazier ’04, Dave Duffie ’75, Bob Gradel ’84, Events Chair Al Ponessa ’68, Tony Pham ’89, Matt Murphy ’95, Webmaster Rob Aeschbach ’90, CDR Kathryn Wijnaldum ’01, Steve Nimitz ’76, Bill Daniels ’77 and Paul McElroy ’85.

On 18 May the speaker at our monthly Networking Breakfast was Mike Zeiders ’75, the founder and CEO of Zeiders Enterprises Inc., and the owner of Zeiders American Dream Theater in Virginia Beach’s Town Center. On Memorial Day, in a solemn yet spirited event at the Virginia Beach oceanfront honoring USNA’s fallen, Run to Honor President Dave Paddock ’77 led our annual sunrise run/walk event attended by over 50 (very) early risers.

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

Things have not slowed down in Hampton Roads this spring and summer! On 21 April we enjoyed a Happy Hour at APEX Entertainment (where adults can play too), and can report we incurred no sprains, breaks, or scrapes – just camaraderie! And on 30 April several of our members joined members from the Virginia Peninsula Chapter at an annual winetasting event at Gauthier Vineyards owned by Mo Gauthier ’69.

Our May 17th Annual Meeting included a presentation by RADM John Polowczyk ’87, SC, USN (Ret.) who served as White House supply chain lead on the Coronavirus Task

Memorial Day Run to Honor participants watch the sunrise at Virginia Beach

Our 29th annual Plebe Recognition Dinner on 2 June was an unqualified success! Much more to follow in the next issue of Shipmate, but with 28 new Plebes, NAPsters, and Foundation students from our area, and over 160 event attendees, we established new Chapter records!

The crowd was huge and the smiles broad at the Hampton Roads Chapter’s Plebe Recognition Dinner.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 153

CHAPTER NEWS On 9 June we held the first of what will be three social gatherings for USNA Midshipmen undergoing Summer Training at Naval Information Forces headquarters. Our 15 June Networking Breakfast featured retired Marine Greg Lewis who is working on a project developing “seagliders,” which are all-electric Wing-InGround (WIG) vehicles for high-speed, low-signature, and low-cost maritime mobility.

On 16 June our golf aficionados Bob Perry ‘72 and Cal Lassetter ’73 pulled together our Summer Golf Outing at the Sewell’s Point Golf Course. And to round out a very busy couple of months we held our annual family-oriented Summer Barbeque Bash/ Picnic at Captain Slade Cutter Athletic Park on June 25th.

To get all the latest news on future Chapter initiatives and events, as well as USNA news and updates, be sure to check out our website under the Hampton Roads group at myUSNA.com. And don’t forget our LinkedIn and Facebook pages!

Dick Enderly ‘71

Quantico Area Chapter Pres: Robin Dreeke '92 e: rdreeke@gmail.com Vice-President: George Williams '87 e: bucketokinawa@gmail.com Treas: Ron Diefenbach ’00 QACUSNAAAtreasurer@yahoo.com Sec'y: Nancy Springer ’87 nancy.a.springer.nancy@aol.com BGO Area Coordinator: Jim Ripley ’74 e: james.m.ripley@gmail.com Website: http://quantico.usnachapters.net

On 8 April, sixteen Chapter Members came together for the latest edition of the Quantico Area Chapter (QAC) Breakfast Speaker series.

Due to the planned guest’s late cancellation, Chapter Vice President Robin Dreeke stepped in to take the speaker slot. A retired FBI agent and published author, Robin gave an extremely informative and interesting talk about his experiences as a counterintelligence agent and as the Head of the Behavioral Analysis Program.

Robin added several personal stories to illustrate his points regarding power and leadership, underscoring the truth that people (and nations) always work in their best interests. He finished by giving an insightful description of Russian President Putin’s personal history and his behavioral characteristics. He further explained how this combination influences Putin’s relationship with the US and other Western powers and his conduct of the war in Ukraine.

The Chapter continued its seasonal Army-Navy sports watch parties when five Chapter Members, friends and family descended on The Six Bears and A Goat Brewery in Fredericksburg on 23 April to watch an exciting Army—Navy Lacrosse Match. Navy prevailed in the end with an 11-10 win in OT!

154 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

On Memorial Day, QAC conducted one of its signature events, the 5th Annual Run To Honor Remembrance Run. This year’s hybrid event honored Captain Michael Ohler ’77, USMC, who was killed in action by a sniper’s bullet on 16 October 83 in Beirut, Lebanon.

Conducted in person for the first time since 2019, the event featured Captain Ohler’s Classmates who reminisced and offered both lighthearted and poignant memories of him. After a safety brief and other administrative announcements, about 10 walkers/runners hit the trail, joining others participating virtually around the world. The idyllic venue, in the shadow of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, is dotted with numerous memorials and monuments to our fallen, providing a solemn, yet peaceful, place to reflect on Captain Ohler’s sacrifice and to honor his memory. In keeping with the hybrid format, the RTH Committee hosted a Zoom call the previous day so Captain Ohler’s Classmates could re-connect and reminisce privately. Also, for the first time, event organizers provided a virtual race day viewing option via a Zoom call broadcast from the run course itself, enabling participation by Classmates, family members and friends located outside Northern Virginia.

Event proceeds will fund scholarships for high school students to the Academy’s STEM Camp and Summer Seminar, perpetuating Captain Ohler’s legacy while investing in the future.

Earlier in May, the Chapter hosted the Annual Membership Meeting and prepared for the annual Chapter elections. After conducting routine Chapter meeting protocols, John Keenan summarized the Chapter’s activities over the past year, informed the group of the status of the annual bylaws review and presented the 2022-2023 election slate. Following the meeting, the entire Membership has until the end of the Chapter year to vote on both the election slate and the proposed bylaws.

QAC will pause operations in July for summer break but will resume its activities with

the 5 Aug breakfast at The Hampton Inn, Dumfries. All area and visiting alumni are welcome at Chapter events. Please consult our web page (http://quantico.usnachapters.net/) for the schedule and timing details.

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 Vice Pres: Rick Yasky ’78 e: rickyasky@gmail.com BGO Area Coordinator: LCDR David Lannetti ’81, USN (Ret.) p: 757-423-8602; e: dlannetti81@gmail.com Website: vapeninsula.usnachapters.net

The Virginia Peninsula Alumni Chapter has had an active spring. Ben Francisco ’73 retired as chapter president after a long and successful reign. He was replaced by Kathleen Jabs ’88 who was vice president. Kathleen was replaced as vice president by Rick Yasky ’78.

Summer Seminar and STEM Scholarships in 2022.

The Virginia Peninsula Chapter solicited applications for highly qualified high school students to participate in Academy Summer Programs this year. Our Chapter’s Blue and Gold liaison member Bob Lynch received applications via his network of high school guidance counselors and our Chapter Board approved the funds. Supporting local students who have

Quantico Chapter: Run To Honor 22 Participants, Committee Members and Support Volunteers

CHAPTER NEWS a high potential to become Midshipmen is the main purpose of our annual dues and fund raising. Our Board voted to do this again in 2022 as a good use of our dues.

Chapter dues are $20 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 April and May Activities On Saturday April 30th Mo Gauthier ’69 and his wife Sandy hosted the Peninsula and Hampton Roads chapters at joint Wine Tasting at their Gauthier Vineyard in New Kent County. We all had a wonderful time and were happy to return to their wonderful vineyard after 2 years of events being restricted due to Covid.

On Thursday May 5th we had a town hall meeting and luncheon with Congressman Rob Wittman provided by Patriots Colony in Williamsburg. Congressman Wittman a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the Committee on Natural Resources. On the Armed Services Committee, he serves as Vice Ranking Member of the full Committee and Ranking Member of SeaPower and Projection Forces Subcommittee. In addition, as Co-Chair of the Congressional Shipbuilding Caucus, he is an advocate for a robust Naval fleet and a healthy domestic shipbuilding industry. He also currently serves as Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee and on the U.S. Naval Academy’s Board of Visitors.

Puget Sound Chapter: Speaker Series with speaker Run to Honor President Dave Paddock

Puget Sound Chapter: Plebe Welcome for the Class of 2026/NAPS 2023

of other USNA grads in the area who might be interested in joining us, please let Chapter President Kathleen Jabs know and pass along their contact information. The hospitality committee will contact them and add them to our email list.

2022 Regimental Receptions”. This provided an excellent opportunity to grow our future membership.

Washington BGO Area Coordinator: Darin Perrine e: dperrine@mailbox.org Congressman Wittman

Joint Service Academy Small Business Development The 2nd Wednesday each month the Joint Service Academy Small Business - Business Development Forum meetings are held locally. Last May we started meeting in person and guests were able to join via Zoom. Mike Ohlhaver ’75 is the host of these meetings. Contact Ben Francisco <roger.benton.francisco@gmail.com> if you are interested in checking us out.

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

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

Bo Hight at First Regimental Reception

Website: http://hanford.usnachapters.com

Puget Sound Chapter Pres: Linda Postenrieder ’82 e: usnaaa.psc@gmail.com Corr Sec’y: George Windsor ’75 e: gbwindsor@icloud.com Website: http://pugetsound.usnachapters.net

During late April 2022 our chapter (Bo Hight) was one of four represented at the “Class of

Class of 2022 Regimental Reception JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 155

CHAPTER NEWS On May 5, 2022 we contInued our Speaker Series with the President of the “Run to Honor (RTH) Shared Interest Group” Dave Paddock ’77.

He presented an excellent summary on the history/background of RTH and the many events conducted across the country. He also discussed the opportunity for all to participate in the “USNA Virtual Memorial Hall”.

On May 14, 2022 we held our Plebe Welcome for the Class of 2026/NAPS 2023 in conjunction with the USNA Parents Club of Washington.

The event was well attended with 72 chapter members, family and future Midshipman in attendance. Key speakers were VADM Mike LeFever ’76, CDR Michelle Verbs ’01 and CAPT Wendy Lawrence ’81.

Washington, DC Area Greater Washington Chapter Pres: Luis Martinez ’01 e: president@usnagwc.org Vice Pres: Anthony Calandra ’88 e: vicepresident@usnagwc.org Sec’y: Crysta Gonzalez ’18 e: secretary@usnagwc.org

STEM event hosted by the Washington Mystics.

DCPS students are underrepresented at USNA, and the chapter is committed to assisting USNA admissions in raising awareness of our school’s opportunities. This event helped us establish a relationship with DCPS and the Washington Mystics, and we are excited to continue developing these relationships for the benefit of USNA.

Treas: Jennifer Shaar ’92 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: Fred Latrash ’87 e: trustee@usnagwc.org Website: www.usnagwc.org BGO Area Coordinator: Pat Seals e: pseals@ymail.com

Plebe Welcome for the Class of 2026/NAPS 2023

On Memorial Day May 30th, we conducted our dual (Oak Harbor and Issaquah) Run to Honor events. These two events specifically honored the 43 Washington State Alumni in Memorial Hall.

Shipmates, The chapter wrapped up our 2021-2022 season in style! Be sure to read on to learn more about our fantastic events. We had so much to share that we will talk about our Service Academy Career Conference networking and WNBA sporting events in the next issue!

STEM Event. We sponsored over 100 students from three separate District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) April 29 to attend a

SECNAV Dalton and Mrs. Margaret Dalton, SECNAV DelToro and GWC President Luis Martinez

SECNAV Social. SECNAV The Honorable Carlos Del Toro ‘83 joined about 80 grads and guests — with representation from the classes of ‘64 to the incoming class of ‘26 — at our social at Valor Brewpub right after Memorial Day. He spoke briefly and candidly, taking many questions and offering advice for the incoming plebes. Many thanks to Shelby

Whidbey Island Run To Honor

Greater Washington Chapter: SECNAV ‘83 with members of the class of ‘17, ‘26, ‘92, ‘01, ‘87, ‘70, and ‘

Puget Sound Chapter: Issaquah WA Run To Honor, 30 May 2022

Upcoming 2022 events include our Annual Meeting on 28 June and our Annual Picnic at Camp McKeon (Kitsap County) on 20 August.

Please check out the website for upcoming events if you would like to get involved.

Greater Washington Chapter: ‘26 incoming plebes enjoying the picnic

156 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

CHAPTER NEWS Mounts ’92, Jen Shaar Carter ’92, Heidi Huerter Lenzåini ’95 and Alexis Opferman ’17 for organizing the event. As a bonus, SECNAV The Honorable John Dalton ’64 (70th SECNAV from 1995-98) and his lovely wife Margaret Dalton joined in the festivities. Heidi, as well as SECNAV EA CAPT Craig Mattingly ’95, were excited to see SECNAV Dalton – the first time they met was at their graduation/commissioning when he was the guest speaker. Join us at Valor Brew Pub in the Fall for the home games!

2nd Annual Picnic. Last year, over 100 alumni and their guests (including midshipmen and candidates) joined us for the chapter’s first annual picnic. This year, we hosted close to 100 guests May 15, including nearly a dozen members of the classes of ’26 and ’27 – some of whom had traveled as far as Shenandoah to participate! There was live entertainment from local band Black Moon Tonic and plenty of food, plus a great round of Q&A with the guests, including recent grad Madison Ward ’22 who updated us on Yard life. We are grateful for Alexis Opferman ’17 for organizing the event.

Finally, we are posting videos to the USNA GWC YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe and participate. Additionally, please join our Facebook and LinkedIn pages for info about the chapter, USNA, and the Navy!

Go Navy! Beat Army!

Semper Fidelis, Luis Martinez, USNA ‘01 President, USNA GWC

Wisconsin Chapter: 2021 All Academies Ball—All Academies Military Ball front row L – R: Isaac Barta (‘22), Mae Myers (‘24), Kady Stigler(‘25), Natasha Neve (‘24), Sean O’Dowd (‘24); back row L – R: Jack Etheridge (‘25), Jacob Kohlmeier (‘24), Benjamin Eicholz (‘25), Carson Hillier (‘23), Timothy Rauh (‘25), Alex Carter (‘22), and Nick Hinz (‘24)

Wisconsin BGO Area Coordinator: Mr. Leonard Green e: leonard.green.a@gmail.com

Wisconsin Chapter Pres: Timothy Mahoney ’10 e: mahoney@2010.usna.com At Large: Chris Adams ’75 p: 414-553-0982

Wisconsin Chapter: L to R: Mike Doble, Joan Doble, Abby Doble (USMA ’25), Kathleen Grasse, Tim Rauh (USNA ’25), Rob Grasse (USNA ’88) Ann Rauh, Martha Blair (Annapolis Sponsor Mom of both Rob and Tim), and Jeff Rauh

Website: http://wisconsin.usnachapters.net/ WISNAPA Co Presidents: Andy and Laura Kittleson e: kittleson5@yahoo.com Website: http://wisconsin.usnaparents.net/ BGO Area Coordinator: Mr. Leonard Green e: leonard.green.a@gmail.com

The 2021 Wisconsin All Academies Ball, sponsored by the Wisconsin Parents’ Associations for all five Service Academies, was held on Thursday, December 30 in the Rumble Ballroom at the Harley Davidson Museum in Downtown Milwaukee. Midshipmen and Cadets from all five Academies, their parents, and several Academy Alumni enjoyed the comradery of a traditional formal military ball, and built lasting inter-service bonds of brothers, sisters, and families in arms. Maj. Gen. Brian E. Winski USA Ret., of southeast Wisconsin provided inspiring and memorable comments

as the Guest of Honor. The event was masterfully catered by Katherine Gifford <katherine_ gifford@gmail.com>, and the event was professionally chronicled by Quick and Smart Photography out of Fond du Lac, WI (https:// quicksmartphoto.com ) who graciously provided the below photo of our Midshipman contingent: Opportunities presented themselves at the Ball for strengthening the Navy Family, as evidenced by the below photo of two Brookfield Academy alumni, their parents, Blue and Gold Officer, and Annapolis Sponsor parent enjoying the festive atmosphere at the Harley Davidson Museum: PLAN ON JOINING US IN DECEMBER 2022 FOR THE NEXT ALL SERVICE ACADEMIES BALL. Details to come.

Finally, the Wisconsin US Naval Academy Alumni Association is proud to announce this year’s Wisconsin Honor Graduate, and winner of the prestigious CDR William Barker Cushing Award, Midshipman Midshipman Isaac Barta of the 30th Company Isaac will receive an engraved uniform sword from Wisconsin’s senior alumnus, VADM Dirk Debbink ’77 at a later date. Details to follow in the next edition of Shipmate!

Midshipman Isaac Barta of Beat Army! the 30th Company Rob Grasse ‘88

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 157

SHARED INTEREST GROUPS Direction are also on our website https://www.usnama.com/donation-selection/ NAMA has also partnered with Amazon Smiles. Learn more at smile.amazon.com, and https://org.amazon.com.

Run to Honor Pres: David G. Paddock ’77 p: 757-373-0977; e:president@runtohonor.com Website: www.runtohonor.com

NAMA

NAMA 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: Nikki Betz ’05 e: bgo@usnama.com Shipmate Contact: LCDR Jessica Anderson ’08, USN e: communications@usnama.com Website: www.usnama.com

EVENTS: Upcoming Events: As Plebe Summer is in full swing and we transition toward the Academic Year-we look forward to joining parents for Plebe Parents’ Weekend and integrating with the Brigade on the yard and at home football games. Join NAMA today and get involved!

Past Events: We are elated at the support that helped make the 2022 USNA Alumni Leadership Forum a success. Thank you to all that joined us for our two-day symposium and gala; we look forward

158 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

to future Leadership Forums, engaging conversations and highlighting Hispanic Graduates.

Congratulations to Dr. Alisha Malloy ’90 for starting her position as the Academic Dean at NAPS! We look forward to seeing your successes.

NAMA members finished up our final Great Oaks Elementary STEM Spark Event in Brooklyn and engaged future leaders’ in programing.

Members were busy talking about NAMA to at the Board of Trustees meeting and the Counsel of Class Presidents, Regimental Dinners, Diversity Peer Educators and so much more.

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.

Follow these steps to contribute today: 1. Visit usna.com/give or follow direction on the NAMA website 2. Select the dollar amount you would like to contribute.

3. In the “I would like my money to go to” box, select “Other”.

4. Type in Naval Academy Minority Affairs Fund 5. Enter your donor information and click “Next”

Over Memorial Day, there were 12 RTH events across the country organized by Chapter and Local lead as well as several individuals who ran/walked/swam/biked to honor and preserve the memory of our fallen USNA alumni.

We would again like to share a special thanks to the event leads who made the events possible: Linda Postenrieder ‘82 -Oak Harbor, WA; Matt Hill ‘91 -Issaquah, WA; Shannon Webb ‘04 and Jeff Webb ‘95 -Philadelphia, PA; Sofi Loomis ‘99 -Annapolis, MD; Hank Gibson ‘84 and Hal Gilreath ‘84 -Jacksonville, FL; Steve Swift ‘87 -Tampa, FL; Steve Recca ‘83 -Boulder, CO; Danielle Beier ’10 -Omaha, NE; Cody Rome ‘12 -Eagle, ID; David L. Wayland (Father of Patrick Wayland ’10)-Midland, TX; Michael Russ ‘97 and Lynne Malinowski ‘95 -Quantico, VA; and Dave Paddock ’77 -Virginia Beach, VA. With the RTH Memorial Day events passed, RTH is active preparing for the Marine Corp Marathon (MCM) Events 28-30 October in Arlington, VA. MCM event updates and details are communicated via our newsletters and social sites. If you are planning to participate in or on the side-lines of this year’s MCM events, we would love to see you out there! Please see below for ways to connect with us.

RTH would also like to highlight a few events that align with our mission. First, this July 4th, the 18th Annual J.P. Blecksmith Memorial 5k will be held in San Marino, CA. The event was created to perpetuate the legacy and honor the life and sacrifice of J.P. Blecksmith ’03. Next, the 11th Annual Patrick Wayland Memorial Gold Tournament will be held Saturday, August 20th with 8am and 1pm flights at the Hogan

SHARED INTEREST GROUPS

Run To Honor: USNA Hampton Roads Chapter Memorial Day Sunrise Run to Honor on May 30, 2022

Park Golf Course in Midland, TX. The Memorial Golf Tournament began in honor of Patrick Wayland ‘10. Finally, on 8 October, USNAA will once again be hosting Honor our Fallen Heroes events. Honor our Fallen Heroes recognizes families of alumni killed in action and operational losses with a football half time performance. Let us know if you plan on attending these or other events to honor our fallen Shipmates.

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 Women Pres: RADM Alma Grocki ’81, USN (Ret) p: 808-343-1523; e: alma.grocki@gmail.com Vice Pres: Col Maria Pallotta ’94, USMC p: 410-440-7552; e: pallotta@usna.edu Sec’y: Dr. Rhonda Scott ’97 p: 240-462-0707; e: rhondabscott@gmail.com Website: https://women.usnagroups.net

Welcome Aboard Class of 2026!

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 159

LAST CALL

“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 —Laurence Binyon, 1914 and in the morning, we will remember them.”

Robert Ernest Apple ’44 6 CDR, USN (Ret.) 3 July 2021

Ward Walton de Groot III ’51 6 CAPT, CEC, USN (Ret.) 8 March 2022

Terence Bruce Sutherland ’54 CDR, USN (Ret.) 13 June 2022

Wayne Warren Miller ’56 CDR, USN (Ret.) 13 December 2018

Charles Compton Wales ’44 31 May 2022

Roy Wilson Malone ’51 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 24 May 2022

Roger Lee Coffey ’55 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 19 September 2018

John Clarence Putnam ’56 24 January 2021

William Carlos Parler Sr. ’51 6 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 6 May 2022

Albert Lee Dawson ’55 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 15 May 2022

Guy Henry Baskerville Shaffer ’51 6 RADM, USN (Ret.) 1 June 2022

Roger Tate Fortin ’55 26 December 2020

Richard Griffiss Alexander ’45 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 1 June 2022 William Shepherd Benson II ’45 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 25 February 2022 Martin Herbert Snead ’45 2 April 2022 Carl Warren Otto ’47 5 June 2022 Thomas Earl Alexander ’48 10 May 2022 Nicholas Anthony Castruccio ’48 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 7 May 2022

Walter Clarence Stevens Jr. ’51 Col, USAF (Ret.) 7 May 2022 Clifford Lloyd Ward ’51 Lt Col, USAF (Ret.) 21 April 2022 Joseph Pidkowicz ’52 6 18 May 2022

James Albert Cox ’48 22 May 2022

William Jardine Ryan ’52 6 RADM, SC, USN (Ret.) 13 May 2022

Howard Sydney Crosby ’48 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 16 April 2022

St. Clair Smith ’52 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 27 April 2022

Richard Brearley Plank ’49 9 May 2022

Joseph Bernard Bornstein ’53 Maj, USAF (Ret.) 15 November 2021

Robert William Titus ’49 6 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 4 May 2022 Thomas Hugh Ross ’50 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 8 May 2022 James Irwin Wilson ’50 25 May 2022 Stuart Morgan Beck ’51 CDR, USN (Ret.) 6 November 2021 Joseph Alfred Bray Jr. ’51 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 2 June 2022

160 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

David Warmington Howell ’53 Lt Col, USAF (Ret.) 10 June 2022 Lawrence Harold Shrewsbury II ’53 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 18 April 2022

James Alonzo Greenwell Jr. ’55 26 April 2022 Thomas Gilbert Kiefaber ’55 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 9 February 2022 Winchester C. Smith III ’55 29 May 2022 John Glade Toner ’55 15 June 2022 Jan Alan Fawcett ’56 9 May 2022 William Scott Hunt Jr. ’56 6 25 April 2022 Burton Randolph Laub Jr. ’56 11 May 2022 James Benjamin Mackey ’56 4 May 2022

Carl Bramlett Wootten Jr. ’56 10 May 2022 Eugene Anthony Wrobel ’56 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 9 July 2021 Bart C. Campbell ’57 6 Lt Col, USAF (Ret.) 1 June 2022 David Ross Ault ’58 6 8 May 2022 James Daniel Campbell ’58 19 May 2022 John Halm Galla ’58 19 May 2022 Richard Edward Keefe ’58 22 April 2022 Kent Beckwith Lawrence ’58 6 CDR, USN (Ret.) 12 May 2022 Alex Anthony Martella Jr. ’58 6 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 1 May 2022 John Otto Phillips Jr. ’58 22 May 2022 Roger Walter Stallkamp ’58 6 Lt Col, USAF (Ret.) 23 May 2022

Frederick Joseph Kollmorgen ’54 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 24 May 2022 Billy Martin Lovett ’54 28 May 2022 Robert Wells Montross ’54 CDR, USN (Ret.) 4 June 2022

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.

LAST CALL George Walter Williams ’58 15 February 2022 Paul Ernest Guay ’59 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 2 December 2021 Robert Lodge Jones ’59 13 May 2022 Robert Carl McFarlane ’59 6 12 May 2022 Robert Anthony Byrne ’60 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 3 June 2022 David Mayers Jr. ’60 6 2 April 2022

Dennis Edward Ray ’64 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 18 May 2022

Leo Francis McGinn Jr. ’72 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 20 November 2017

Ronald Floyd Bishop ’65 CDR, USN (Ret.) 20 May 2022

Timothy Dennis O’Connell ’72 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 26 May 2022

James Cowser Cheney ’65 6 CAPT, SC, USN (Ret.) 20 April 2022

William Edward Roukema ’72 11 March 2022

Christopher Anthony O’Balle ’92 6 Col, USMCR (Ret.) 6 February 2022

Craig J. Custer ’76 19 April 2022

Robert Vincent Egan ’93 5 June 2022

Vernon Claude Williams Sr. ’77 20 May 2022

John Maurice McKeon Jr. ’93 CDR, USN (Ret.) 26 May 2022

Thomas Elwood Lull ’65 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 22 May 2022 Thomas Michael Apple ’67 15 May 2022

Glen Elliott Shipman ’78 8 May 2022

John Lester Lovering Jr. ’83 13 February 2022 Mark Andrew Butler ’88 Col, USMC (Ret.) 25 May 2022

Steven John Daczkowski ’94 15 June 2022

James Loren Conn ’67 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 10 May 2022

James Warren Edmondson ’79 12 April 2022

Andre Ringgold Brousseau III ’61 8 March 2022

Richard Rice Davis ’67 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 11 April 2022

Mark Daniel Guadagnini ’80 RADM, USN (Ret.) 11 June 2022

Timothy Neal Limbert ’98 19 May 2022

John Wayne Chesson ’62 21 March 2022

Arthur Daniel Goodwin ’67 16 May 2022

Tabor Austin Crombie ’82 19 April 2022

Philip Daniel Hall ’05 5 May 2022

Robert Scott Clancy ’62 5 June 2022

Jules Berger Selden ’67 6 19 May 2022

John Ola Lindgren Jr. ’62 6 Lt Col, USAF (Ret.) 3 May 2022

John Francis McGuire Jr. ’68 17 May 2022

Marshall Redfield Willenbucher ’60 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 30 April 2022

Robert Philip Rupprecht ’62 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 16 May 2022 William Douglas Davidson ’63 25 April 2022 Thomas Ray Green ’63 9 May 2022 Drake Cleveland Hawkins ’63 LT, USNR (Ret.) 19 May 2022 Ronald Joseph Klemick ’63 14 May 2022 Joseph Clemens Boeddeker ’64 12 May 2022

Thomas Lane Phillips ’69 LCDR, USN 30 April 2022 Robert Jay Healy ’70 11 May 2022 Terry Paul Virus ’71 LCDR, USNR (Ret.) 3 May 2022 Vincent Louis Cassani III ’72 11 June 2022 Robert Charles Curtis ’72 18 April 2022 George Ed Fillmore Jr. ’72 30 May 2022

Michael Patrick Pierce ’95 29 August 2021

OBITUARY GUIDELINES • Obituaries for Shipmate must be submitted by, or approved by, the family of the deceased and require final approval of our draft prior to publication.

• If possible, email format is preferred. Be sure to include a phone number so we can contact you if there are any questions.

• Please note that we have a firm 400-word limit.

• A photo is encouraged, but we ask that irreplaceable photos not be sent through the mail in case of loss or damage in transit.

• Emailed photos must be at least 300 dpi in resolution.

• We have Lucky Bag photos here (for graduates only) and they may be scanned in-house, but must be specifically requested.

• Our “how to” document, “A Fitting Tribute: How to Write an Obituary” is available online (search www.usna.com), or via USPS upon request.

• Although we encourage people to write their own obituary in advance, we DO NOT keep them here at Alumni House. We suggest that you keep a copy with your important papers for your family to update and send in when the time comes. You may also wish to contact your class secretary to see if he/she is keeping files.

• Direct submissions or inquiries to: Shipmate obituaries, 247 King George Street, Annapolis, MD 21402-5068; obits@usna.com; 410-295-4064.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 161

LAST CALL ROBERT ERNEST APPLE ’44 Commander Robert E. Apple, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 3 July 2021, at the age of 99.

“Bob” was born on 15 March 1922 in Bismarck, ND, to Lyla Almquist Apple and Ernest F. Apple.

He was big brother to Don Apple ’48, and would spend his early life traveling with his parents throughout Wyoming and Montana.

He became an Eagle Scout and graduated from high school in Casper, WY. Bob attended the University of Wyoming while awaiting his appointment to the Naval Academy. He fulfilled a boyhood dream; substituting anchors for spurs and entered the Academy in July of 1940.

Following graduation in 1943, Bob shipped out to the South Pacific aboard the “LUCKY LAMSON” and participated in several battles in Leyte Gulf.

During the battle of Ormoc Bay on 7 December 1944, his ship was hit by a kamikaze, killing 21 and wounding 82. Lieutenant Apple was one of many decorated for valor. Following repairs in the U.S., LAMSON sailed to Iwo Jima, Saipan and Okinawa. After the formal surrender on 2 September 1945, LAMSON entered Sasebo Harbor, Japan and Nagasaki.

Bob met his bride to be, Patricia Anne Glenn, on a blind date in 1941, while still a midshipman. They were married during the war and embarked together on a wonderful life filled with incredible magic and adventure.

Following the war, Bob attended postgraduate school in Annapolis and received his master’s degree in mechanical engineering. He spent the rest of his military career helping design several major classes of destroyers and the hydrofoil.

After retirement, Bob continued to work on ship designs as a senior executive at Litton Industries and later in private practice.

Bob was preceded in death by Patricia, his loving wife of 77 years.

Her passing just three months earlier, had a significant impact on his heart. They will both be greatly missed by their children, Laura Daunis, Robert E. Apple ’73 and Karen Apple; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

A Mass was held on 14 December 2021 for both Bob and Patricia in the Old Post Chapel at Fort Myer, followed by full military honors and burial together at Arlington National Cemetery alongside their daughter, Donna, who passed away in 1956.

A storybook ending of two wonderful loving souls from this country’s Greatest Generation!

The Apple Family H

WILLIAM THOMAS SANDERS JR. ’47 William T. Sanders passed away on 27 December 2021. He was 99 years old.

The son of the late William Sanders and Sarah (Betterton), “Tom” was born on 8 May 1922 in Chattanooga, TN. He graduated from the Choate School in Wallingford, CT, in 1941 and attended Rice University in Houston, TX, for two years before transferring to the Naval Academy, where he graduated in 1946 (Class of 1947) with a degree in engineering.

Upon his graduation, Tom was commissioned as a Navy ensign. He served in the Pacific in various roles at the end of World War II, until his voluntary discharge in 1949, when he was released from active duty and went into the Naval Reserve. He was recalled to active duty in 1952 as a lieutenant and was assigned to the Mine Force in the Atlantic fleet until 1953, when he returned to the Naval Reserve.

In 1948, he married Carolyn Coleman, with whom he enjoyed 73 years of marital bliss. In 1953, he and Carolyn moved permanently to Wichita

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Falls, TX, where Tom started a career in the oil business under the guidance of Carolyn’s father, J. Pickens Coleman. Tom became an independent oil producer in Wichita Falls and maintained an office downtown until his death.

He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, setting a high bar for love, honesty, ethical behavior and excellence in all ways. He was an avid handyman, able to maintain a variety of mechanical and electrical contraptions. He loved spending time at the family cabin in Colorado.

The story is that he married Carolyn to spend time at the cabin and Carolyn married Tom to maintain it. He enjoyed fly fishing, hiking, backpacking and other outdoor activities afforded by the southern Colorado mountains. Tom and Carolyn were enthusiastic pilots, both of whom earned their pilot licenses and instrument ratings. They enjoyed flying all over North America, including to and from the cabin. In 1981, Tom flew in the New York to Paris leg of the air race that was part of the biannual Paris Air Show. The plane won first place in their class.

Tom and Carolyn enjoyed traveling around the world, including countries on six continents. In fact, there weren’t many activities that they didn’t enthusiastically engage in together.

Tom is survived by Carolyn; their children, Carol Rasmus (Robert) and Blair Sanders (Deborah Orrill); grandchildren, Garrett and Blair; and several nieces and nephews. H

ALBERT EDWARD CONORD ’48 Lieutenant Commander Albert E. Conord, USNR (Ret.), of Lititz, PA, went home to be with the Lord on 13 April 2022 at the age of 96.

Al had four successful careers and a long, fruitful retirement as well.

After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1948, he served in submarines for several years and later returned to the Naval Academy as a professor of Electrical Engineering. Finally, he transitioned to USNA’s Computer Sciences department, where he ultimately retired as the director of both academic computing and all computer operations. Along the way, he earned two master’s degrees from Catholic University in Washington, DC. Foremost, Al was a man of family. He and his first wife, Audrey, raised five children until she was taken home in 1979. Then, he and his wife, Barbara, watched their family grow to over 70 children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After retiring, Al increasingly saw himself as a prayer warrior for his family, much of which was geographically distant.

When every youngster celebrated their 16th birthday, he wrote them a grandfatherly letter of encouragement.

Al was a lifelong golfer and played every week that the weather allowed. The challenges of the game, the camaraderie and the time in nature brought great joy to him well into his 90s.

He was a follower of his Lord, Jesus Christ and often expressed gratitude for the grace of God in his life. He served as both a deacon and an elder in the Presbyterian Church in America and also as chairman of the building committee for a large church renovation. He loved to sing harmony and singing in church choirs gave him the opportunity to exercise that gift, which had been honed by his earlier years in a barbershop quartet.

His family spent many happy hours around the piano harmonizing together with him.

Most importantly, Al was a man deeply loved and respected by his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Barbara; his five children (and their spouses), Patty Moore (Keith), Mike Conord, Deb Warnick (Rod), A.T. Conord (Barbi) and Kathleen Brook (Jeff); and Barbara’s children, Danielle Margaretta (Rick) and Richard Davison (Carolyn).

The Conord Family H

LAST CALL CURTIS RALPH NORTON JR. ’49 Captain Curtis R. Norton Jr., USN (Ret.), died on 17 October 2021 on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. He was 97 years old.

“Curt” was born in Moline, IL, to Esther (Edensward) and Curtis Ralph Norton Sr. He enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II and entered the Naval Academy with an appointment from the Secretary of the Navy in 1945.

Soon after graduation on 25 June 1949, he married his beloved wife, Pauline “Polly” Novaria Norton.

His first tour of duty was on THOMPSON (DMS-38). He then served on O’BRIEN (DD-725) in Korea. For the remainder of the Korean Conflict, he was assigned to the Seventh Fleet Staff. He then served with Commander First Fleet. As Mutual Defense Assistance Program officer, he taught weaponry techniques to Italian, Iranian and Dutch naval officers, followed by service as executive officer of EMBATTLE (MSO-434). A two-year stint on the staff of CINCNELM/CINCBPECOMME in London included deploying to Lebanon.

Curt then served as operations department head, navigator and executive officer of NANTAHALA (AD-10), followed by shore duty at NavComStaWash. A tour as CO of GUIDE (MSO-447) was followed by studies at the Armed Forces Staff College. As operations officer on the staff of ComMacThai in Bangkok, he developed the Communist Suppression Center and designed the Mekong River patrol.

In 1968, he became CO of BRUSH (DD-745), which he considered his favorite command. This tour included a six-month Southeast Asia deployment, for which he was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat V. In 1970, Captain Norton was ordered to the OpNav staff in Washington and later served as Deputy Commander for Communications Security with the Naval Security Group, followed by three years with the National Security Agency. In 1976, Curt assumed command of the Office of Naval Research Branch in Chicago and subsequently in Boston. He retired in 1979 with over 36 years of enlisted and commissioned service in the U.S. Navy.

Curt was highly respected by his shipmates and loved by his family and friends. Predeceased by Polly in 2016, he is survived by their children, Anne, Vanessa and Matthew; and grandchildren, David, James, Cassandra, Andrea, Curtis, Matthew and Christopher.

Notes, comments and memories of Curt and Polly may be forwarded to: Doug Bomarito ’68, 7157 SW Beveland Street, Suite 100, Tigard, OR 97224; (503) 223-8285; (dmbomarito@dmbpc.com). H

ROBERT WILLIAM TITUS ’49 Captain Robert W. Titus, USNR (Ret.), passed away on 4 May 2022. He was 95 years old.

“Bob,” a third generation Nevadan, was born on 19 October 1926 to Louis and Eva Titus. He attended elementary and high school in Reno, NV. He entered the Naval Academy in July 1945.

Following graduation with the Class of 1949, his first duty assignment was on SPRINGFIELD (CL-66), then BOXER (CV-21), through three tours to Korea. His next duty was on ALLEN M. SUMNER (DD-692). He received a BS in Aerological Engineering at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. This led to duty at Fleet Weather Centrals (FWC) Kodiak, AK, and Seattle, WA. After one year at FWC Seattle, he resigned and accepted a commission in the Naval Reserve.

Serving in a variety of units, he was commanding officer of Surface Unit 12-49(M) in Reno and of Naval Oceanography Unit NORA-2276 at Point Mugu, CA. Accepting a position with the U.S. Antarctic Research Program, he spent 13 months at Hallett Station, Antarctica, as station scientific leader and

meteorologist in charge during Operation Deep Freeze, 1960-1961. From this service, he has a mountain named for him in Victoria Land, Antarctica.

Upon his return to the States, he accepted a position with the Air Resources Field Research Office (ARFRO), providing meteorological and radiological support to the nation’s nuclear weapons testing program at the Nevada Test Site (NTS). While at NTS, he received an AEC scholarship, completing the master’s program in Atmospheric Science at the University of Washington. With almost 30 years at NTS, his final position was as meteorologist in charge of the Weather Service Nuclear Support Office.

After retirement, he continued to be associated with the NTS as a consultant.

He was a professional member of the American Meteorological Society, a life member and past national president of the Naval Weather Service Association, as well as other military and civic organizations.

He was married to his wife, Sylvy Geraghty Titus, for 50 years. He is survived by three (of his four) children from his first marriage, Bruce, Gregory and Patricia; granddaughter, Melissa; sister, Evalyn; and his extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sylvy; sister, Margery; and son, Jeffrey.

Funeral services were held in Reno on 16 May 2022, with interment at Mountain View Cemetery. H

THOMAS HUGH ROSS JR. ’50 Captain Thomas H. Ross Jr., USN (Ret.), a long-time resident of Annapolis, MD, passed away on 8 May 2022 at Brightview Senior Living in Annapolis, MD. “Tom” was born on 18 May 1927 to Thomas Hugh and Anna “Marie” Klaiber Ross in Pittsburgh, PA, where his father worked for Pittsburgh Plate Glass (now PPG) and managed the World Champion Pittsburgh Yellow Jackets hockey team. On 25 May 1935, at age eight, he attended a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game at Forbes Field against the Boston Braves, where Babe Ruth hit the last three home runs of his illustrious career, the last (No. 714) being the first ball hit over the roof and out of the stadium in right field. Tom received the baseball that was the last out of the game. Many family discussions ensued regarding that game. After his father died in 1936, Tom and his mother moved back to her family’s home in Miamisburg, OH, where his grandfather operated Klaiber’s grocery store and Marie worked as a nurse in Dayton. Tom graduated first in his class at Miamisburg High School and attended Ohio State University before entering the Naval Academy, a lifelong dream.

Following graduation, Tom married Ann Sipp of Baltimore, MD (University of Maryland ’50). Their first duty station was Pensacola for flight school. The Navy took them to Corpus Christi, TX, Norfolk, VA, Bermuda, Monterey, CA, Albuquerque, NM, Newport, RI, Annapolis, Jacksonville, FL, (as CO of VP-1) and the Pentagon. Tom also served in Spain, South America, Guantanamo Bay during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Philippines, serving in the Vietnam War. While on active duty, Tom set international flying records on the P-3C anti-submarine and surveillance aircraft. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.

Following his retirement in 1986, Tom and Ann initially retired to Orange Park, FL, before returning to Annapolis to be closer to family.

Tom was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Ann, in 2004. He’s survived by their sons, Tom (Susanne), Doug and Jim (Lynn); eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren, who adored their “Papa.”

In 2007, Tom married Kathryn “Kippy” Amick. They spent wonderful years together traveling, attending Navy games, church activities and being with family. Kippy passed away in 2021. He was close to Kippy’s four children and grandchildren.

A memorial service honoring Tom’s life will be held on 8 September 2022 at noon at Annapolis’ Evangelical Presbyterian Church, followed by entombment at the USNA Columbarium. H JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 163

LAST CALL JOSEPH ALFRED BRAY JR. ’51 Captain Joseph A. Bray Jr., SC, USN (Ret.), was called home by the Lord on 2 June 2022, at the age of 94.

“Joe” was born on 31 January 1928 to Joseph and Elizabeth Bray in Patterson, NJ. He enlisted in the Navy’s V-5 officer training program as World War II was winding down. He subsequently entered the United States Naval Academy, where he lettered in lacrosse and basketball.

He was a proud graduate of the Class of 1951.

Joe was a veteran of both the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Upon graduation from Supply Corps School at Bayonne, NJ, he deployed to Korea on PRINCETON (CVA-32) as disbursing officer, and later as supply officer of COLLETT (DD-730). His sea assignments included service as assistant supply officer of TICONDEROGA (CV-14) in the Western Pacific.

Shore assignments included the Naval Ammunition Depot in Earle, NJ; the Navy Supply Center at Pearl Harbor, HI; the NROTC unit at the University of Washington; the Navy Ordinance Supply Office in Mechanicsburg, PA; OpNav staff (Logistics Plans) and ComNavForv, where he served as Special Assistant for Operations/Research Analysis.

During his varied career, Joe attended the Air Force Advanced Logistics Center at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, OH, and the Naval War College at Newport, RI. He earned an MS in International Relations from The George Washington University and an MS in Operations/Systems Analysis from the University of Rochester.

Joe was a true servant leader and a humble man of faith. He bravely fought a 20-year battle with Alzheimer’s with dignity, grace and courage.

His was truly a life well lived.

He is survived and mourned by his loving wife of 71 years, Beverly; their daughters, Jamie Pendergrass and Jodie Brunstetter (Pete); sons, Michael (Jayne), Daniel (Donna Marie) and Thomas; 27 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. Joe was predeceased by his parents; siblings, Don and Betty; daughter-in-law, Brook Bray; grandson, Matthew Pendergrass; and son-in-law, Hugh Pendergrass.

Joe’s remains were interred at the Naval Academy Columbarium on 4 August 2022. H

WARD WALTON DE GROOT III ’51 Captain Ward W. de Groot III, CEC, USN (Ret.), of Arlington, VA, died on 8 March 2022.

Ward attended Rutgers University before entering the Naval Academy, where he graduated with distinction in 1951. In 1953, he transferred from surface line to the Civil Engineer Corps; earning a bachelor of civil engineering degree at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY. Ward served at Camp Pendleton, at the Naval Academy and on the staff of Commander Naval Air Bases Japan before reporting to OpNav in 1962. From 1963 to 1964, he was personal aide to the DCNO for Logistics. He graduated from the Armed Forces Staff College in January 1965. In March 1966, he assumed command of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 58, a new Seabee battalion being commissioned for service in Vietnam. Relieved in June 1968, he earned a master’s degree in business administration at The University of Rochester, then served in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Systems Analysis) for two years. In December 1971, he became the deputy director of the DON Program Information Center. From June 1973 until May 1976, he commanded both the Naval Construction Battalion Center and the 20th Naval Construction Regiment in Gulfport, MS. From June 1976 until he retired in September 1978, he was commanding officer of the Northern Division of the Naval Facilities

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Engineering Command. His personal decorations include the Legion of Merit (2), the Bronze Star with Combat V (2) and the Meritorious Service Medal.

In October 1978, he joined the staff of Navy Federal Credit Union, the world’s largest credit union. In October 1980, he was promoted to the position of executive vice president, from which he retired on 1 July 1997.

Ward was a registered professional engineer and served on the board of trustees of the CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation. He was a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Arlington, the Arlington Rotary Club and the Washington Golf and Country Club.

Ward was a gentleman; a gentle man who loved history, geography, travel and his azalea gardens. But mostly, he loved people – he loved Life!

Ward married the former Claire Kendrick Sindlinger of Colts Neck, NJ (Mary Washington College ’52) in 1952. He is survived by Claire; their four children, Robin de Groot, Dana Grobicki (Tom), Douglas De Groot (Kathryn) and Gretchen Walden; 12 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his brother, Kenneth E. De Groot of Carlisle, PA. WWD ’51 H

ROY WILSON MALONE SR. ’51 Captain Roy W. Malone, USN (Ret.), passed away on 24 May 2022 in Virginia Beach, VA, lovingly surrounded by his family. He was 93 years old.

Roy was born on 11 May 1929 in a log cabin in Trinity, KY, to Orville James Malone and Daisy Frances Truesdell. He worked on his father’s tobacco farm, transforming his soft ’baby hands’ into strong, caring hands he would use to shape his life. He attended Ripley Union Lewis High School in Ripley, OH. He first saw the ocean when he moved to Maryland to attend the Naval Academy, Class of 1951.

He married the love of his life, Mary Elaine Norriss, at the Naval Academy Chapel on 24 April 1954. He then received his master’s degree in International Relations at The George Washington University in June 1964.

He spent more than 30 years traveling the world with the Navy.

During his illustrious career, he commanded three different ships, WOODPECKER (MSC-209), LOCATOR (ARG-6) and DONNER (LSD-20), homeported in Sasebo, Japan, San Francisco, CA, and Norfolk, VA. He was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars and spent a year in-country during the Vietnam War in 1968. He retired on 1 July 1981. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal and Bronze Star with Combat V, among others.

He was predeceased by his wife, Elaine, and his sister, Jeanne Klump.

He is survived by his siblings, Ray Malone and Ruth Stevens; his children, Deborah Malone, Roy Malone Jr. and John Malone; and three grandchildren, Damien, Roy III and Madison.

We will remember him whenever we see the ocean and every time we give of ourselves and expect nothing in return, as he did himself and taught us to do. With his endless encouragement, strength and positivity, Roy embodied the qualifications of a naval officer. He was more than a “capable mariner,” he was the “soul of tact, patience, justice, firmness, kindness and charity.”

A funeral service was held at Old Donation Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach on 28 May 2022, followed by a graveside service at Eastern Shore Chapel Cemetery.

In honor of Roy, please consider a donation to the Naval Academy Foundation to support the next generation of midshipmen. Donations may be made at (www.usna.com/give) in the name of Captain Roy W. Malone Sr., Class of 1951.

The Malone Family H

LAST CALL WILLIAM CARLOS PARLER SR. ’51 Captain William C. Parler Sr., USNR (Ret.), 92, passed away at his home in Frankford, DE, surrounded by family on 6 May 2022.

“Bill” was born on 12 August 1929, in Creston, SC, to Marion C. and Anna J. (Keller) Parler. He graduated from Cameron High School (SC) and attended the University of South Carolina (USC) on a NROTC scholarship for a year prior to receiving an appointment to the Naval Academy.

He graduated from USNA with the Class of 1951 with a BS degree and was commissioned as a U.S. Navy line officer. Bill trained on MISSOURI and subsequently served on destroyers and amphibious ships throughout the world, including operations in the Mediterranean, Korea, Vietnam and the Formosa Straits.

During his naval service, he met and married Beatrice “Anne” Hemenway on 13 August 1955. Bill attended USC School of Law, where he earned a Bachelor of Law degree and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa honorary society. He was admitted to the SC Bar. Bill earned a Master of Laws degree from Harvard Law School on scholarship.

Thereafter, Bill began a career of public service as an attorney with the federal government in the newly emerging field for the development and use of atomic energy for civilians and natural defense purposes.

Bill specialized in government contract matters, administrative law, the legislative process and energy and environmental law for the Atomic Energy Commission. Bill served, among others, as the committee counsel to the U.S. Congressional Joint Committee on Atomic Energy, as an administrative appeal judge and as the General Counsel to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), appointed by George H.W. Bush. He received that agency’s distinguished service medal and the Presidential Distinguished Executive and Meritorious service awards. Bill retired from the Reserves in 1971 as a captain and remained in the standby reserve.

Upon retirement from his civilian position in January 2006, Bill and Anne moved to a farm near Ocean View, DE, where they enjoyed life and their family, and attended St. Martha’s Episcopal Church in Bethany Beach, DE. He was predeceased by his parents; sister and brother-in-law, Harriet and Laney Spigener; and his grandson, Bradley. Bill is survived by his wife of 66 years, Anne Parler; sons, William C. Parler Jr. and Blair H. Parler (Rebecca); daughters, Bethanie R. Detar and Beatrice C. Nutt (Jeffrey); 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Condolences may be left for the family at (www.parsellfuneral homes.com). H

IRWIN PATCH JR. ’51 Captain Irwin Patch Jr., USN (Ret.), died on 24 March 2022.

“George” was born on 6 August 1926 in Marysville, OH, to Captain Irwin George Patch and Mary Jane Low Patch. In 1943, he graduated early from Wellston High School’s class of 1944 to join the Navy. He served in night torpedo squadrons, flying from SARATOGA (CV-3) and ENTERPRISE (CV-6) in the Pacific. He was senior aviation radioman in Night Development Squadron, Atlantic Fleet, when ordered to the Naval Academy Preparatory School. He graduated from Annapolis with the Class of 1951.

After a year aboard CABOT (CVL-28), George was ordered to Pensacola, FL, for flight training. In 1953, he was designated a naval aviator. He served sea duty tours with three carrier-based squadrons and a carrier division staff, accumulating 963 carrier-arrested landings, including more than 500 night landings. In 1969, George reported as air

officer aboard HORNET (CVS-12), where he participated in Apollo 11 and 12 recoveries. His final sea tour was as Chief of Staff, Fleet Training Group, Guantanamo.

Captain Patch attended the Naval War College, the University of Southern California and The George Washington University. He served as assistant flight training officer at NAS Los Alamitos; at the Naval Academy; Bureau of Naval Personnel; and the Navy Department. His final tour ashore was at the Office of the Secretary of the Navy as Deputy Director, Naval Council of Personnel Boards and President, Navy/Marine Corps Physical Evaluation Board.

Among his awards and decorations are the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star with Combat V, Air Medals, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal and Navy Good Conduct Medal.

Retiring from the Navy in January 1982, George became a Wellston Telegram columnist for 15 years. He was inducted into the Wellston High School’s Wall of Achievement in 2009.

Captain Patch is survived by his wife of 59 years, former Navy nurse, Jane Green of Colleyville, TX; daughter, Eleanor Jane Brigham; son, Irwin George Patch III; and granddaughters, Katherine Anne Brigham and Caroline Jane Brigham. H

GUY HENRY BASKERVILLE SHAFFER ’51 Rear Admiral Guy H.B. Shaffer, USN (Ret.), 94, died on 1 June 2022.

From Westfield, NJ, Guy attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute prior to his appointment to the Naval Academy (New Jersey). He graduated with distinction with the Class of 1951, 23rd Company. Guy remained at USNA as a Plebe Seamanship instructor, then reported to HELENA (CA-75) that October. He reported to Submarine School in January 1953 and reported to SEA CAT (SS-39) in July 1953.

While on SEA CAT, he qualified in submarines and was engineer officer.

He was in the first class at Nuclear Power School in New London, CT, and following completion of Prototype Training (Idaho), Guy reported to the precommissioning crew of SKATE (SSN-578), making two trips to the Arctic.

Guy was diving officer when SKATE became the first submarine to surface through the ice and when SKATE surfaced at the North Pole. SKATE was awarded two Navy Unit Commendations and Guy received a SubLant Letter of Commendation.

In 1959, Guy was ordered to the precommissioning detail of SCORPION (SSN-589) as engineer officer, participating in the shakedown cruise to England and US-UK fleet exercises.

In 1961, was XO of THEODORE ROOSEVELT (SSBN-600, Gold). In February 1964, Guy was CO of GREENLING (SSN-614) under construction in Quincy, MA. Delivery was delayed to include “SubSafe” improvements following the loss of THRESHER, and the adaption of acoustic test equipment to better detect Soviet submarines.

In 1969, Guy reported as operations officer for Submarine Development Group 2. In 1970, Guy worked for the Deputy CNO for Submarine Warfare (OP-02) in Washington. He was given additional duty as Head of a Study Group defining characteristics of what was termed the “Next Generation Submarine.” Guy returned to New London as ComSubGru 2, and then to Washington in 1972 as Deputy Director of Navy Strategic Special Project Office, developing the Trident Missile.

In 1976, Guy transferred to the Naval Electronics System Command as Director of Command, Control and Communications. In 1980, he became Director of Operations for the Defense Nuclear Agency, retiring in 1981.

His personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Legion of Merit (4) and Navy Commendation Medal (2).

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LAST CALL In retirement, Guy worked for RCA and Martin Marietta Aero and Naval Systems.

Guy was a member of the board of directors, past president and 15-year chief fundraiser for the Class of 1951.

Guy and his wife, Marie Meigs Shaffer, had three children and six grandchildren. H

RICHARD EDUARD DENFELD ’52 Colonel Richard E. Denfeld, USAF (Ret.), passed away on 14 April 2022, in Ashburn, VA. “Dick” was born on 16 November 1929 in Benson, MN. He attended the University of Oklahoma prior to receiving his appointment to the Naval Academy. Playing football for the Midshipmen, he was a part of the 14-2 victory over #2 ranked Army in 1950. He graduated with the Class of 1952 as a member of the Fourth Company and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.

On 5 July 1953, he married Barbara Lee of Benson, MN, and together, they moved to Hawaii for their first tour of duty at Hickam AFB. Dick taught Air Force ROTC at the University of Idaho (1956-1959). In 1961, he earned his master’s degree in physics at the University of Utah then spent the next five years teaching physics at the Air Force Academy. By the time Dick and Bobbie moved to Annandale, VA, in 1966, they had six children. For the next ten years, Dick held various positions in the DC area including at the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. In 1971, he served in Southeast Asia as a weapons systems navigator—flying 120 combat missions. Upon his return, he completed assignments on the Air Force Staff at the Pentagon before retiring in 1976.

In January 1977, Dick and Bobbie purchased the Ben Franklin store in Annandale, VA, which ultimately evolved into 11 stores in the DC area known as Total Crafts. In 1989, with four of their six children involved in the business, Bobbie and Dick stepped away from work life to enjoy traveling, golfing, cheering Navy football and time at their Lake Anna home. Their favorite activity became grandparenting!

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Bobbie; his sister, Joyce DeMaro; six children (and their spouses); 19 grandchildren (with 12 spouses); and 15 great-grandchildren.

Treasured for his kindness, generosity, wisdom (and willingness to share it) and enormous capacity to love, Dick will be remembered for his Christian faith, his love for this country and those who serve to protect it, his USNA classmates—and especially for his extraordinary devotion to his beloved wife and family. Tough shoes to fill.

Inurnment took place in July at the USNA Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Folds of Honor (https://foldsofhonor.org). Condolences to Bobbie and family may be sent to (denfeldpaul@gmail.com).

The Denfeld Family H

JOSEPH PIDKOWICZ ’52 Joseph Pidkowicz, 93, passed away peacefully on 18 May 2022 at James Quillen VA hospice in Johnson City, TN. “Joe” was born on 9 March 1929 to Katherine (Yoniak) and Roman Pidkowicz in Hornell, NY. In high school, he was a member of the track team and the National Honor Society, working fulltime for the Erie Railroad communications department as nighttime manager of the Westbound Freight Yard his junior and senior years. He attended Alfred University as a ceramics engineering major for

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one year and graduated from the Naval Academy with a BS in engineering in June 1952.

Having selected Air Force pilot training, he reported to Goodfellow AFB, and then the Strategic Air Command (SAC), serving tours at Barksdsale AFB, Wright-Patterson AFB and Kirkland AFB, flying the B-25, B-29, B-47 Strato-Bomber and the B-52. In addition to flying missions, he taught nuclear weapons to combat crews. The 376th Bomb Wing was tasked with escorting B-47s with nuclear weapons to their Russian targets and was assigned 90 days of missions to the Arctic (13,000 miles) every other night, requiring three night air-refuelings. He completed a two-year graduate nuclear engineering program at the Air Force Institute of Technology, then assisted in the development of a nuclear-powered guided missile designed to travel at supersonic speeds and save air crews.

He left the Air Force as a captain in 1961 and accepted a position with the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) in Oak Ridge, TN, as Deputy Chief of Reactor Technology. He was involved with the development, launch and operation in space of the first compact nuclear reactor, the SNAP-X, in addition to a diverse array of nuclear projects as manager of the Nuclear Reactor Division at Oak Ridge National Lab. He retired from federal service in 1984 but continued work as a consultant with Lawrence Livermore Labs and Los Alamos National Labs.

Joe’s hobbies included cycling, tennis, hiking, snow skiing and enjoying the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, where he built a home after retiring.

He was predeceased by his parents; three siblings; and his daughters, Elizabeth Higginbotham (Roger) and Suzanne Wilson. He is survived by his wife, Mary Wilson Pidkowicz; his children, Dr. Kevin Pidkowicz, Patrick Pidkowicz (Gale), Katie Holloway (Randy) and Anne Felicia Pidkowicz; their mother and his former wife of 47 years, Eva “Anne” Hagen Pidkowicz; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Interment and full military services will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery in New Mexico. H

WILLIAM JARDINE RYAN ’52 Rear Admiral William J. Ryan, SC, USN (Ret.), 91, died peacefully on 13 May 2022.

“Bill” was born on 5 July 1930, to Dr. William J.J. Ryan and Elizabeth Bell Ryan. He and his siblings, Patricia, Maureen and Barry, grew up in San Diego and Muskegon, MI. Upon graduation from the Naval Academy with the Class of 1952 as a member of 17th Company, Bill served aboard BON HOMME RICHARD (CV-31) and HALSEY POWELL (DD-686) in the Pacific. He then transferred to the Supply Corps and served in various billets including MORTON (DD-948) and the Naval Material Command.

He was attached to the Naval Reactors Program of the Atomic Energy Commission and served in Admiral Rickover’s Command for five long years.

After acquiring an MB from The George Washington University, he served in SIMON LAKE (AS-31) in Scotland. He subsequently attended the Industrial College of the Armed Forces and was assigned to the Navy Secretariat as its Director of Procurement.

Promoted to flag rank in 1978, he was fortunate to receive continuous command assignments throughout the remainder of his career, the last being the Defense Fuel Supply Center, which procured and managed the Department of Defense’s world-wide petroleum requirements. His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and Legion of Merit (3). Bill retired from the Navy in 1985 and he and his wife, Julia, moved to Annapolis.

Bill taught at The George Washington University and the University of the District of Columbia.

After retiring again in 1995, he enjoyed a pleasant Annapolitan life, boating, volunteering with the USO and participating in USNA and class affairs. He was a member of the Epiphany Community of Annapolis, the

LAST CALL New Providence Club, the New York Yacht Club, was a trustee of the Naval Academy Foundation and a past president of the USNA Class of 1952.

His beloved wife of 49 years, Julia Catherine Meehan, predeceased him in 2002. He was blessed to marry Mary-lin Jackson, widow of Classmate Rear Admiral Dempster Jackson ’52. They lived bi-coastally between Annapolis and San Diego until 2007, when they moved to Potomac Falls, VA. Bill is survived by his sister, Maureen; wife, Mary-lin Ryan; sons, Peter, Jerry and John; daughter, Sara Malanka; Mary-lin and Dempster’s children, David, Dennis, Reilly and Demarie, who he thought of as his own; 12 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was held at the Naval Academy Chapel on 26 July 2022. H

PAUL VALENTINE STREHLOW JR. ’52 Paul V. Strehlow Jr. died of pneumonia on 13 March 2022, in Evanston, IL, at the age of 92.

Paul was born in Peoria, IL, to Paul Strehlow Sr. and Gladys Crain Strehlow. He graduated from Peoria High School and spent one year at Purdue University before NROTC sent him to Annapolis, where he earned his degree in mechanical engineering. In later years, when visiting the Naval Academy, he delighted in showing his children and grandchildren the plaque commemorating his 1952 receipt of The Military Order of Foreign Wars prize for proficiency in mathematics.

Paul served in the Pacific Fleet as engineering officer on ERBEN (DD-631) from July 1952 to August 1954. From shipboard, Paul proposed to his high-school sweetheart, Jane Wellington, and they were married in June 1953. They lived in California during the remainder of his military service and had their first child, Rebecca “Becky.” After an injury cut short his Navy career, the couple returned to Peoria, where they had two more children, Paul III “Val” and Frederick “Fritz.”

Paul was treasurer and chairman of V. Jobst and Sons, Inc., General Contractors. For several decades, Jobst built many of the Peoria area’s major commercial and industrial buildings. In 1985, Paul and Jane moved to Evanston. His construction expertise led him to oversee several large projects at Lake Forest Hospital before he retired in 1997.

Throughout his career, people admired Paul for his integrity.

He dedicated time to professional associations and nonprofit leadership.

In retirement, he enjoyed numerous lifelong-learning seminars, and he developed many mutually rewarding relationships as a hospital and hospice volunteer.

He was a proud father and grandfather, and he relied on his unwavering faith to confront life’s challenges. He was a great storyteller, had a great sense of humor and loved to socialize. Physical diminishment failed to dampen his spirits. He was a bright light to the very end.

Paul is survived by his daughter, Becky of Evanston; son, Fritz of Santa Clara, CA; as well as his grandsons, Will, Parker, Ricky and Paul IV. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jane Strehlow; son, Paul V. Strehlow III; and his grandson, Allen Quincy Strehlow.

His ashes rest with those of his wife and son in the columbarium of St. Luke’s Church in Evanston, IL. The Strehlow Family H

MEMORIAL AFFAIRS RESOURCES https://www.usna.com/memorial-affairs

FREDERIC ALBERT MANN ’53 Fred Mann, 89, passed away peacefully of kidney failure on 3 September 2021, surrounded and comforted by his loving family.

Fred graduated from North Phoenix High and received a congressional appointment to the Naval Academy at age 17. Fred was assigned to the 15th Company but following a reorganization of the Brigade from 36 to 24 companies, he ended up in the 10th Company. Upon graduation with the Class of 1953, he received his commission in the Air Force, and two days later, married Wanda Mehring of Taneytown, MD. Fred attended flight schools in Arizona and Texas and then served with fighter squadrons in California and Germany, flying F-86 and F-100A and C. He was proud to have served in the world’s first supersonic squadron. Fred resigned his commission in 1957 and served in the Air Force Reserve until 1966.

He was recruited by Texas Instruments and moved to Dallas, TX. Fred started in production of semi-conductors and earned his MS in Engineering Administration at SMU. He worked many years writing and editing technical manuals and representing TI on international electronics standards committees. Fred traveled all over the world to attend committee meetings. In 1982, their daughter, Nancy, entered USNA with the Class of 1986. Fred enjoyed many visits back to Annapolis and to football games during those years to see Nancy and her fellow Navy cheerleaders and reuniting/tailgating with ’53 classmates. Fred and Wanda attended not only class reunions but enjoyed 10th Company mini reunions as well.

Fred found his thrill in life in his forties when he learned to snow ski.

This was so impactful that when Fred took early retirement from TI, he and Wanda moved to Salida, CO. He logged 300+ lifetime days of skiing before moving back to Dallas at the age of 79 to be near family. They enjoyed the active senior lifestyle at Frisco Lakes, a Del Webb Community, and then recently, a more reserved pace at Highland Springs in Dallas.

He loved playing games (chess, other board games, cards, dominoes and croquet) and would show no mercy, regardless of the age of his opponent.

Fred is survived by his wife of 68 years, Wanda; daughters, Nancy Kimbrell ’86 (and her husband, Ray) and Lisa Morrison (and her husband, Daniel); and six grandchildren, Patrick, Katie, Nikki, Emily, Ben and Olivia.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Laura.

He will be interred at the Naval Academy Columbarium. H

FREDERICK JOSEPH KOLLMORGEN ’54 Captain Frederick J. Kollmorgen, USN (Ret.), died on 24 May 2022 in Exeter, NH. He was 90 years old.

After attending the Severn School, “Fred” graduated from the Naval Academy with the Ninth Company.

Following graduation, he was assigned to the destroyer COMPTON and served there until attending Submarine School. He then spent two years on the diesel submarine STICKLEBACK before completing nuclear power training in June 1959. After Nuclear Power School and the Prototype, he was assigned to the submarines SKATE, THOMAS JEFFERSON and PERMIT (as CO). Next came the Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington, where he spent six years as manager of the Submarine Noise Reduction Program, SSN Project Officer, SSBN Project Office, and was director of the Ship Silencing Division. Following his NavSea tour, he reported to the Commander Submarine Force, Atlantic Fleet, and served there as Assistant Chief of Staff for Material. He was planning officer at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard until his retirement

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LAST CALL from the Navy in June 1982. His service awards include the Legion of Merit and Meritorious Service Medal.

After moving to Exeter, Fred worked for 15 years in Portsmouth, NH, for the Essex Corporation and for the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics. He was active in the Exeter Rotary Club, the choir of Christ Episcopal Church, the Exeter Historic District Commission, the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests and as an income tax preparer for the AARP Tax Aide Program. He also spent many hours and dollars trying to keep his family’s 1840 house in the historic district in commission.

Fred and his family enjoyed many summers at their cottage on Lake Winnipesaukee in Wolfeboro, NH. He particularly liked racing his Pearson Ensign sloop on the lake, frequently as an also-ran, but having a great time, nonetheless.

He is survived by his spouse of 66 years, Diane; sons, Stuart, Andrew, Matthew and John; their spouses; and 11 grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Exeter Historical Society, PO Box 924, Exeter, NH 03833; (www.exeterhistory.org).

FJK ’54 H

JAMES FLOOD LAMORE ’54 Commander James F. Lamore, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 21 December 2021, with family, friends and clergy visiting with him during his final days, while he prepared to leave this world. He fought hard during his illness while remaining faithful.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, “Jim” grew up in San Diego, CA, and attended San Diego State University, followed by the U.S. Naval Academy, where he graduated with the Class of 1954.

Jim subsequently earned a BS in Electrical Engineering at the Naval Postgraduate School and attended flight school in Pensacola, FL. Commander Lamore flew with the “Screaming Eagles” while living in California and later was commanding officer of VF-74 at Naval Air Station Oceana. As a career naval aviator flying the F-4 Phantom Jet, Commander Lamore flew more than 200 combat missions servicing his country on two nine-month cruises during the Vietnam War. Upon his retirement from the Navy, Jim earned an MBA from Old Dominion University and later worked for QED Systems, Ingersoll Rand and National Technologies.

Jim was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Virginia Beach for 51 years. He was a devoted Catholic. He loved the Naval Academy and was a life-time supporter.

Jim is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ann (Doherty) Lamore; daughter, Ann King; sons, Michael Lamore (Susan) and Peter Lamore (Ellen); son-in-law, Roland Modlin; and six grandchildren, Tyler, Greg, Maria, Andrew, Mathew and Nicholas. He was predeceased by his daughter, Patricia Modlin; and son, James F. Lamore Jr. A Funeral Mass took place on 28 December 2021 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Virginia Beach, VA. Online condolences may be offered to the family at (www.hdoliver.com). excerpts from The Virginian-Pilot H

DO YOU HAVE YOUR DD-214? http://www.usna.com/DD-214

168 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

WILLIAM SCOTT HUNT JR. ’56 William S. Hunt Jr. of Zebulon, NC, passed away on 25 April 2022, at Magnolia Glen in Raleigh, NC. He was 87 years old.

“Bill” was born on 2 June 1934 in Washington, DC, to the late William Scott Hunt and Mary Taylor Hunt. He received a congressional appointment from his home state of North Carolina and entered the Naval Academy in 1952, where he was a member of the First Company. He graduated with the Class of 1956 and served his country in the United States Navy until completing his service in 1960.

He then returned to Raleigh, and began a law enforcement career as a Special Agent with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI). In 1962, he was transferred to Wilmington, NC, as a resident agent.

In 1970, he was transferred back to Raleigh and became supervisor of the Technical and Logistics Division for the SBI. He remained with the SBI in Raleigh until retiring in 1986.

Bill then opened a private investigative business. In 1990, he joined Nationwide Insurance in Raleigh, where he helped to establish the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) and his mark can still be found there today. Bill fully retired in 1997, completing a long career of faithful public service.

During retirement, he enjoyed time in his woodworking shop, building furniture and ship models. Most important to Bill was his devotion to and hope in Jesus Christ, which he faithfully demonstrated in how well he served and loved his wife, sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Linda Faye Sikes Hunt in 2018. He is survived by their sons, William III (and his wife, Lesley) of Zebulon, NC, and Bryan (and his wife, Lisa) of Wake Forest, NC; grandchildren, William IV, Mary and Anna; and great-grandson, William V. Funeral services were held on 2 May 2022, with burial in Montlawn Memorial Park in Zebulon, NC. H

BART C. CAMPBELL ’57 Lieutenant Colonel Bart C. Campbell, USAF (Ret.), 88, died of natural causes on 1 June 2022 in San Jose, CA. Bart was born in National City, CA, to the late Lieutenant Commander Emmett Melvin Campbell, USN (Ret.), and Melba Beatrice Campbell.

During a three-year assignment with his parents in Oslo, Norway, Bart graduated from a Norwegian high school in 1952. Returning to the States, he attended Bullis Prep School in Maryland. In 1953, with a Presidential Appointment, he joined the Class of 1957 at the Naval Academy. He had met and had fallen in love with Dorothy J. Herzig in 1952, and they married in June 1957.

Bart graduated from USNA as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.

After brief assignments in fighter squadrons and the 53rd Air Rescue Squadron, he attended the Air Force Institute of Technology in Dayton, OH, graduating with an MS in Astronautics–Space Facilities (1964).

He was then loaned to NASA HQ in the Office of Manned Space Flight, Advanced Lunar Exploration Office as the project officer for the Lunar Roving Vehicle development program. In 1967, he was reassigned to the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force Special Projects at Los Angeles AFS. From 1967 to 1973, Bart worked on AF space programs. His last assignment was as the AF Engineering Division Manager at Lockheed Missiles and Space Company, Sunnyvale, CA. Upon his AF retirement in 1977, Bart joined Westinghouse Electric Corporation and spent the next 18 years working missile launch systems for AF strategic weapons programs.

LAST CALL He retired from Westinghouse in 1994 and then took up several hobbies: digital photography and languages being the ones he enjoyed the most. He took three years of German at San Jose State, two years of Norwegian courses from the University of North Dakota and local classes in Norwegian for the next 10 years. During his last years, he provided support to his USNA class in digital photographic presentations, contributing to their 50th Reunion yearbook and generating scrapbooks for subsequent reunions. Bart was the Class of ’57 secretary and a life member of the USNA Alumni Association and the Military Officers’ Association of America.

Dorothy passed away on 6 September 2021. They leave behind their beloved children, Michael, Jacqueline, Donna, Caroline and Christopher; and grandchildren, Campbell, Aidan and Aspen.

Memorial services for Bart and Dorothy will take place at Assyrian Evangelical Church of San Jose on 18 September 2022. H

DANIEL EUBANK MCGLASSON ’57 Captain Daniel E. McGlasson, USN (Ret.), passed away on 12 January 2022 in Arlington, VA, after a lengthy illness.

“Dan” was born in Jacksonville, TX, on 20 August 1932. He grew up in Lake Charles, LA, where he was an all-star football tackle and all-star basketball center. He attended Tulane University as a premed student before attending Bullis Prep and entering the Naval Academy.

At Annapolis, he was captain of the Plebe football team and graduated with the Class of 1957.

Subsequently, he served a year on JOHN HOOD (DD-655) before attending Submarine School. From there, he served on GRAMPUS (SS-523), followed by two patrols with the commissioning crew (Blue) of SAM HOUSTON (SSBN-609). He returned to USNA as a company officer for two years, followed by service on four additional boats stationed in Key West, FL, Charleston, SC, and Portsmouth, VA, with command of CUTLASS (SS-478) (1971-1972). He served as submarine liaison officer on ComCruDesGru Two staff, participating in the development of the AMERICA battle group Command and Control concept while deployed to the Mediterranean (1976-1979). He was then ordered to the Naval Electronic Systems Command in Arlington, VA, serving in various positions, including major program manager of the Navy High Frequency Anti-Jam program. He considered his 1987 retirement from the Navy as, “the saddest day of his life.”

Dan then worked as a defense contractor before becoming a househusband, supervising all the things that involves. He and his wife, Rosella “RJ,” made many trips around the U.S. in their Piper Arrow in addition to travels to South America and Europe. His skill in the kitchen as a gourmet chef led him to author a cookbook and host an annual fly-in for their many aviation friends. He loved hunting in the marshes of Louisiana, Mexico and on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and fishing anywhere.

He is survived by RJ, the love of his life for more than 40 years; his sons, Daniel Jr. (Beth) and Ed (Jill); daughters, Cindy (Clarke) and Channez “Chan” (Rob); as well as many loving nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined.

Memorials in Dan’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).

“Captain Dan” was a man to be remembered. To quote many friends, “He was one of the finest gentlemen you will ever meet.” And he was. H

DAVID JERE ROSSER ’57 David J. Rosser, a former Navy aviator, noted fundraiser and devoted Christian, died on 14 March 2022. He was 87 years old.

“Dave” was born on 4 January 1935 in Century, FL. His deep patriotism was rooted in World War II, growing up in Pensacola and wherever his father’s Navy ship was docked along the East Coast, from Maine to Florida.

As a child, he sold war bonds and acted as head of the family while his father served as a chief boatswain’s mate. In 1953, he received a presidential appointment to the Naval Academy and became the first person in his family to attend college. He was a member of the 15th Company.

Upon graduation in 1957, he became a naval aviator, flying A-4D fighter airplanes in Attack Squadron 155 off CORAL SEA. His Navy years were a particularly happy chapter in his life. His Catholic education and his Eagle Scout training had motivated him to set goals for his life and to be the best that he could be. In keeping with the Navy march, his life’s foundation was, “Faith, Courage, Service True, with Honor Over All.” After his discharge from the Navy, he became a sales representative for Dupont (Wilmington, DE); Director of Medical Center Development for Emory University (1970-1976), where he established its first capital campaign; Vanderbilt University Medical Center (1976-1978); and as president of the Morton Plant Hospital Foundation in Clearwater, FL (1978-1993).

When he was 50 years old, he had a spiritual rebirth, which led to the recommitment of his life to Jesus Christ. As he deepened his faith, he became a serious and voracious reader of theological books and essays.

That strength led him to volunteer for multiple Christian ministries and serve as a BSA scoutmaster. He and Pat were foster parents to 22 teenagers, then foster parents to Shay and Taylor from pre-school to high school.

He is survived by his former spouses, Dina Rosser Smith and Pat Canady; children, Barbara Hyde (J.R. III), Jenny Achuthan (Ashoka), Michael Rosser (Jane) and Kevin Rosser (Wendy); and ten grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Jan Jendrynski-Rosser.

His instructions for his homegoing service called for a “joyous occasion,” because he will now be with God, Jesus, his parents, his daughter, Jan, and his pets. He also asked for the service to have a military tone because the Naval Academy was so important to his life. H

DAVID ROSS AULT ’58 David R. Ault has gone to start a new adventure, departing from home on Morrison Heights in Wayne, ME, on 8 May 2022, following emergency surgeries in Florida, where he and his wife had been visiting for Red Sox spring training. He was taken home by medically equipped jet and surrounded by family and friends.

David was born in Lewiston, ME, on 6 March 1935 to Ruth and Charles Ault, growing up in Auburn and Wayne. He attended schools in Wayne and Winthrop, graduated from Gould Academy in 1953, and went to Bates College and the United States Naval Academy. A member of the 10th Company in the famous USNA Class of 1958, he proudly counted John McCain among his classmates.

Following graduation, he married his first wife, Maja Jenny, and entered the aerospace industry working on the CIM-10 Bomarc, watching the Minuteman missiles being turned toward Russia in 1962 while working at Vandenberg AFB, and working on Von Braun’s Saturn V Project.

He served Wayne as selectman and town moderator and served 12 years in the state legislature, the last four as a senator. He shepherded a bill JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 169

LAST CALL into law that made Maine the first state to require and fund appropriate educational services for every handicapped child. He managed field offices for U.S. Senator Bill Cohen and left politics to work for BIW. David retired to spend more time on saving and restoring antique cars. He had acquired 54 in his lifetime, including several Stanley Steamers and an L-29 Cord. He globetrotted with his second wife, Norine, seeing many wonders of the world.

His son, Christian Wayne; his parents; and his siblings Mary, Jane, John, Robert, Richard, Ruth and James predeceased David. He is survived by his wife and best friend of over 40 years, Norine Jewell; siblings, Peter and Sara; daughters, Kathy Abbruzzese (and her husband, Chris) and Leslie Manning; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and his former wife, mother of his children and friend, Maja Ault.

A gathering will be held later to toast David and laugh at shared memories. He loved cats; those he saw in Africa and the ones in the barn. Donations may be made to PALS Cat Shelter, 188 Case Road, Winthrop, ME 04364; or to Androscoggin Home Healthcare and Hospice (www.androscoggin.org).

Condolences and photos may be shared with the family at (www.khrfuneralhomes.com). H

KENT BECKWITH LAWRENCE ’58 Commander Kent B. Lawrence, USN (Ret.), 86, of Boston, MA, and West Boothbay Harbor, ME, died on 12 May 2022, at home from long-fought prostate cancer.

Kent was born in Boston, the son of the late Dr. Richard W. and Mary P. Lawrence.

He attended schools in New England and Washington, and he graduated from USNA with the 16th Company in 1958. The day after his graduation, he married his high school sweetheart, Erna MacLaughlin of Newport, RI, in the Naval Academy Chapel.

Following four years in the destroyer force, the remainder of Kent’s assignments involved the submarine service. He served in several boats and commanded the attack sub GREENFISH. Overseas postings were at Naval Forces Europe HQ and NATO’s Northeast Mediterranean Command.

After retiring in 1980, Kent returned to Boston and embarked on a financial services career as a stockbroker with E.F. Hutton. In 1988, he became a senior investment counselor at Babson-United Investment Advisors, retiring as vice president in 2003. One year later, he was diagnosed with aggressive, high-risk prostate cancer, and he devoted the remainder of his life to volunteering for advocacy, education and support for other such patients. For his leadership and service in those efforts, he received an award from the American Cancer Society.

In retirement, Kent was an active volunteer in several organizations.

He served on the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court’s Board of Bar Overseers, was a proprietor of the Boston Athenaeum and participated in the Wardroom Club of Boston, the British Officers Club of New England, the Harvard Travellers Club and the Boston Council on Foreign Relations.

He was a docent at Boston’s Old North Church and the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Kent was a communicant and vestry member at Old North Church, and All Saints by-the-Sea near his summer home in Maine.

He earned a business degree from the University of Maryland, graduated from the Armed Forces Staff College and earned a Merchant Marine Master’s license.

Kent is survived by his beloved wife and dearest friend, Erna, with whom he shared 64 years of joyous married life; daughter, Kimberley L. Byrd; son, Captain Richard M. Lawrence, USN; and five grandchildren.

An Episcopal memorial service with Holy Communion was held at The Old North Church, Boston, on 28 May 2022. There will also be a memorial service this summer at All Saints-By-the-Sea in Southport, ME. His ashes will be inurned with Erna’s in the USNA Columbarium.

KBL ’58 H 170 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

ALEX ANTHONY MARTELLA JR. ’58 Captain Alex A. Martella Jr., USN (Ret.), passed away on 1 May 2022 in Phoenix, AZ, following a brief illness. He was 88 years old.

Alex was born on 8 October 1934 in Pittsburgh, PA, and lived for 18 years in the Oakland District, a few blocks from Pitt Stadium and Forbes Field, home of his beloved Steelers and Pirates. He attended Central High School for three years, then graduated from Bullis Prep in Washington, DC, in 1954. Alex received a congressional appointment to the Naval Academy and reported on 28 June 1954. As a plebe, he roomed with John Phillips, who later left USNA and became famous as a member of “The Mamas & the Papas.” Alex was a varsity squash player and graduated with the 13th Company on 4 June 1958.

During his naval career, Alex served aboard several surface ships, primarily destroyers and mine craft. He commanded MEADOWLARK (MSC-196) in Charleston, SC, from 1962 until 1964. Alex’s final assignment was as commanding officer of the U.S. Naval Reserve Training Center at Great Lakes, IL. He retired from the Navy in 1988 and spent the following 33 years in Chicago. That was his favorite city, and Frank Sinatra was his favorite singer. You could often hear Frank on Alex’s stereo singing “Chicago.”

It was a staple in his house.

In civilian life, Alex first worked for Union Carbide in New Jersey as an engineer, before becoming an entrepreneur. Alex and a business partner started Modern Industrial Products (MIP), a distributing business of wholesale stamping metal sheets for commercial embossing companies.

He successfully operated this business for many years from his home in Chicago before retiring in 1998.

In the spring of 2022, Alex moved from Chicago to Phoenix, AZ, in order to be close to his son, Mike. He passed away shortly after this move.

Alex was known by his classmates and close friends to be loyal, trusting, sincere, generous and humorous. He was also athletic, and a connoisseur of fine foods and wine. There was never a time in his presence that was not enjoyable and memorable.

Alex is survived by his sons, Mark, Marty, Michael and Danny; and his daughters, Leslie and Shara.

He will be interred with full military honors, at NAS Pensacola, FL, where he vacationed often. There will also be a celebration of his life in Chicago, at a café that he selected for the occasion. H

ROGER WALTER STALLKAMP ’58 Lieutenant Colonel Roger W. Stallkamp, USAF (Ret.), 86, of Beavercreek, OH, made his “Last Flight” on 23 May 2022, due to complications from leukemia.

Roger was born on Christmas Day 1935 to Albert and Lucille Stallkamp in Los Angeles, CA. He graduated from South Pasadena-San Marino High School in 1953 and spent one year at Pasadena City College before entering the United States Naval Academy.

Upon graduation with the USNA Class of 1958, he accepted a commission in the U.S. Air Force and entered pilot training. With his new Wings pinned on, he completed the Advanced Fighter Interceptor School program. Due to a critical demand for pilots in Strategic Air Command, the entire class of trained fighter pilots was assigned to either bombers or tankers. He flew KC-97 and KC-135 tankers before entering Test Pilot School. He was assigned to the Aeronautical Systems Division (ASD) as Deputy of Flight Test at Wright-Patterson, doing “black box” testing. His favorite aircraft was the zero-G or “vomit comet” which, at the time, tested everything that went into space, including the astronauts. After a tour in Southeast Asia, he completed a master’s degree in Engineering

LAST CALL Management from the University of Dayton. He was assigned again to ASD as division flight safety officer and subsequently as chief of safety.

As chief of the safety office, he was a member of the division commander’s Executive Independent Review Team. He finished his Air Force career at Systems Command Headquarters, Andrews AFB, as systems safety branch chief and deputy chief of safety for the command in 1979.

After retirement, he was hired by Hartzell Propeller Co. to establish and run their field investigation department, which investigated aircraft accidents and was the company focal point for product liability issues.

He participated in hundreds of aircraft accident investigations as a member of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation team and other foreign investigative authorities worldwide. He taught propeller accident investigation courses at FAA, NTSB, Transport Canada and Air Accidents Investigation Branch-UK training schools. He was certified as a propeller accident investigation expert and testified at trial in both state and federal courts.

Roger is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Anne; his loving children, Karen Rawson, Richard Stallkamp and Michael Stallkamp; eight grandchildren; and his brother, John. Roger was preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia; and brother, Louis.

Burial took place on 13 June 2022 at Calvary Cemetery in Dayton, OH. H

MICHAEL EDWARD FITZGERALD ’59 Captain Michael E. Fitzgerald, USN (Ret.), passed peacefully on 22 March 2022 in Paso Robles, CA. Born in Annapolis, MD, in 1937, he was the son of Marjorie and Rear Admiral William F. Fitzgerald Jr. ’21. Michael graduated from the Naval Academy with the Class of 1959, 15th Company.

Early duties included JOSEPH P. KENNEDY JR. (DD-850), SAMPSON (DDG-10), BARNEY (DDG-6) and CLAUDE V. RICKETTS (DDG-5).

Michael served as executive officer of KNOX (DE-1052) during the Vietnam conflict. His first command was BLANDY (DD-943), operating in the Atlantic Ocean and on deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. He was commander of Destroyer Squadron 14 and was officer in tactical command of NATO ships operating in the Baltic Sea in 1985, when the battleship IOWA (BB-63) conducted a firepower demonstration for a large international audience.

He also served as chief of staff for Commander Carrier Group 3 embarked in CARL VINSON (CVN-70) for two deployments to the Persian Gulf/Indian Ocean.

Michael’s final afloat assignment was as chief of staff for Commander Task Force 33, where he was responsible for and directly supervised the largest peacetime exercise in the Pacific since World War II. Shore duty assignments in Washington, DC, included serving as the Head, Officer Plans and Community Management Branch (OP-130). On exchange to the Royal Navy in London, England, he served two years in their Directorate of Naval Manpower Planning.

Michael earned a master’s degree in Operations Research from the Naval Postgraduate School (1970). He was a graduate of the Armed Forces Staff College (1973) and the NATO Defense College (1979) in Rome, Italy.

His personal decorations include the Legion of Merit (4), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and various service and campaign ribbons.

Michael retired to Paso Robles, CA, in 1989. He attended California Polytechnic State University and received a master’s degree in Computer Based Education, along with his Professional Clear Teaching Credential in 1992. He taught mathematics at Mission College Preparatory High School in San Luis Obispo, CA, for 18 years and was an establishing member of the Sherwood Dog Park in Paso Robles, CA.

Michael was the older brother of Captain J. Stephen Fitzgerald ’67, USN (Ret.), and Lieutenant Peter Fitzgerald, USNR (Ret.); loving husband of 57 years to Ursula; and cherished father of Commander Chris Fitzgerald, USN (Ret.), David Fitzgerald and the late Lieutenant Kevin Fitzgerald, USN (Ret.). He was “Opa” to his five grandchildren, and a friend to many. H

ROBERT LEE LARSON ’59 Captain Robert L. Larson, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 28 March 2022 in Leesburg, FL, following complications from a stroke and pneumonia.

Born on 20 August 1936 in Gothenburg, NE, to Wilbur and Wanda Larson, “Bob” graduated from Gothenburg High School (1954) and attended the University of Nebraska until receiving his appointment to the Naval Academy.

After graduating from USNA in 1959, he entered flight training and was designated a naval aviator in 1961. With VA-64 at NAS Oceana, he flew A-4C Skyhawks. His squadron did initial airwing operations and the shakedown cruise on ENTERPRISE (CVAN-65) and after two deployments, participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis.

He received a master’s in Management Engineering from RPI in 1965, then reported to Naval Plant Representative Office at LTV Aerospace Corporation in Dallas, TX. As Industrial Division Director, he flew acceptance test flights in various models of the A7 Corsair II and the F8 Crusader. In 1968, he was released to inactive duty to pursue a career with PanAm World Airways. He flew F-8s in the Reserves with VF-202 at NAS Dallas and A-4s with Naval Air Reserve Training Unit in Norfolk, VA. In 1970, he was recalled to active duty and served as OIC of VFP-63 onboard ORISKANY for a Southeast Asia combat deployment. Ashore with VFP-63, he provided fleet replacement training for all F8 squadrons, subsequently serving as maintenance and operations officer in VFP-63.

In 1975, Bob reported for training in the RA-5C Vigilante. He took command of RVAH-1 in 1976 during a deployment aboard ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) attached to CVW-14. During his tour, the squadron won three consecutive Battle E awards, the Arleigh Burke Fleet trophy and the Safety S. Bob served on CinCPac Fleet staff, then commanded the NROTC unit at Iowa State University (1981-1984). His last assignment was as commander of the Naval Plant Representative Office, Minneapolis, until retiring in 1986.

After a fulfilling Navy career, he instructed for a time with Northwest Airlines before again flying for PanAm. Bob and his wife, Virginia, retired to Florida and were RV enthusiasts.

Bob enjoyed golf, bridge and socializing in his retirement community.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Alvin; and his wife, Virginia. Bob is survived by his sister, Kay Haarberg; son, Captain Robert L. Larson Jr., USNR (Ret.) (Michelle); daughter, Tamaira Wilson; and grandchildren, Lee, Ashley, Carli, Justin and Gabriella (MIDN 2/C, Auburn NROTC).

Bob will join Virginia at the Naval Academy Columbarium. H

JAMES RUSSEL LOWE ’59 James R. Lowe died on Monday, 18 April 2022, at Overlake Hospital in Bellevue, WA, from a cerebral hemorrhage. He was 85 years old.

“Jim” was born on 5 August 1936 to William and Hazel Lowe in Clay, KY. He graduated from Dayton High School in 1954 and then spent a year at the University of Kentucky on a scholarship before entering the U.S. Naval Academy via an appointment from U.S. Representative Brent Spence. At USNA, Jim was a member of the 14th Company and had an active role in the “Grease Gang.” While there, his brother, Bob ’60, and cousin, Larry Riley ’59, joined him. After graduation, he married Judith Linn from New Jersey.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 171

LAST CALL He was assigned to the destroyer LOWRY (DD-770), taking part in the Cuban Missile Crisis. His last ship was THUBAN (AKA-19), then he left the active Navy and spent time in the Reserves, where prior to resigning, he achieved the rank of lieutenant commander.

In 1963, Jim joined Allied Chemical, where he held various engineering and maintenance positions. He moved to Union Camp, a paper company, in 1975 as an energy specialist. He later became a project engineer for major capital investments with them. In 1978, he took a position with a small engineering company as their director of engineering. The Weyerhaeuser Company became his last place of employment in 1980, where he held a number of engineering positions in his 23 years. His last assignment was on a major capital project as project manager. During his time with Weyerhaeuser, he earned an MBA, traveled extensively and was active in a number of organizations in the engineering field. His accomplishments include being chairman of the Construction Industry Institute’s Implementation Committee, chairman of the Construction Consumer Council and chairman and president of the Northwest Safety Training Council. During his time at the Safety Training Council, 24,000 construction workers completed the safety-training course.

Jim’s interests included tall sailing ships, football (Army/Navy games) and nightly TV Jeopardy. He and Judith enjoyed travels to China, Russia, Spain, France, Norway, Bermuda and throughout the U.S. He was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Judith, and is survived by their son, Robert; daughter, Deborah Borches; and grandchildren, Katelinn Carlson (Bryce) and Connor Borches.

Jim’s remains will be inurned at the U.S. Naval Academy Columbarium. H

ROBERT CARL MCFARLANE ’59 Robert C. McFarlane passed away on 12 May 2022. He was 84 years old.

Born in Washington, DC, on 12 July 1937, “Bud” was the son of William Doddridge McFarlane, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas, and Alma Carl McFarlane.

He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1959 and served in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years, including leading the first U.S. forces to land in Vietnam. In 1965, he was awarded an Olmsted Scholarship to the Institut des Hautes Etudes Internationale in Geneva, Switzerland, where he received a MS in Strategic Studies. He was accepted into the prestigious White House Fellows program in 1971.

Bud’s distinguished record of public service includes serving as President Reagan’s Counselor of the Department of State and Special Envoy to the Middle East. As his National Security Advisor, Bud was an architect of a comprehensive set of U.S. policies, including the Strategic Defense Initiative (“Star Wars”) that both stressed the Soviet Union to the point of economic collapse and achieved the first reduction of nuclear weapons in history. He was awarded the Navy’s Distinguished Service Medal, its highest peacetime decoration; the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award; the Secretary of the Navy’s Medal for Distinguished Public Service; and several decorations for valor in combat operations.

In recent years, Bud co-founded the bipartisan U.S. Energy Security Council and was co-founder and board chairman of IP3, an international company whose mission is to develop and operate peaceful and secure civil nuclear power globally.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jonda Riley McFarlane, as well as the families of their three children, Lauren, Scott and Melissa.

As his family, we wish to share our deep sadness, and note his profound impact on our lives. We remember his warmth, wisdom, deep belief in God and commitment to serving others. We loved his long intricate jokes and envied his matchless form on the ski slopes. He made everyone 172 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

feel like the most important person in the room and derived an enormous pleasure in mentoring, leading to deep friendships among several generations.

Though devastated by our loss, we will always celebrate the big, wonderful life he had and are grateful that he created it so fully with us.

A memorial service was held at the Naval Academy Chapel on 2 August 2022, followed by interment at the Naval Academy Cemetery.

The McFarlane Family H

JAMES FRANCIS DUFFY ’60 Commander James F. Duffy, USN (Ret.), died on 24 November 2021.

Born and raised in Chicago, IL, “Jim” enlisted in the Navy at age 17. He attended boot camp at Naval Station Great Lakes and attained the rank of petty officer second class by age 19.

Jim’s commanding officer soon recommended that he apply to the Naval Academy. Stationed close to Chicago, Jim received permission to go home and speak to his father about his decision. When Jim described the opportunity, his father replied, “Son, it sounds like this man is trying to hand you a golden football. You grab on to it and run like hell.”

Jim took his father’s advice. Gaining admission in 1956, Jim entered the Naval Academy as a member of the Class of 1960. He played multiple intermural sports and won the 1958 welterweight Brigade boxing championship. During his time as a Midshipman, Jim formed countless enduring friendships.

Following graduation, Jim attended flight school in Pensacola, FL, earned his Wings of Gold, and embarked on a 30-year career as a Navy pilot. At the end of his career, Jim welcomed the opportunity to join the Naval Academy faculty, teaching leadership to Midshipmen and living in lovely, old quarters at Hospital Point.

Jim retired into civilian life in 1986. He worked for several years for the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, serving as a test director and project manager in the submarine security directorate. “That job,” he boasted, “allowed me to play with the Navy’s toys without actually being in the Navy.”

Upon his second retirement, Jim spent his time traveling, teaching sailing and guiding walking tours of the Naval Academy.

Jim married Carolyn Novak in June 1960. Their marriage lasted 61 years, until Carolyn died on 31 August 2021. The couple had four children, Kevin, Ellen, Brian and Brendan; and 13 grandchildren, including Emmett Jenkins ’21.

In November 1998, Jim and Carolyn’s son, Lieutenant Brendan Duffy ’95, was killed during a nighttime landing aboard ENTERPRISE. Having served as air boss on a carrier, Jim took the loss personally and particularly hard.

His patriotism and dedication to the Navy never wavered, however, and his love for his alma mater never diminished. It is only fitting, then, that Jim now rests at the Naval Academy’s Columbarium, just down the hill from Hospital Point, alongside Carolyn and only a few feet from their beloved son.

An extended obituary can be found online (www.usna.com/find-anobituary?story=7604). H

DAVID MAYERS III ’60 Major David Mayers III, USMCR (Ret.), 86, died on 2 April 2022 in Silverdale, WA, from pancreatic cancer.

Born on 5 March 1936 in Orange, NJ, to David and Katharine Mayers, “Dave” graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in Spokane, WA, in 1953, enlisted in the Marine Corps, then received a fleet appointment to the Naval Academy, where he was assigned to the 15th Company. He attended Airborne School in the

LAST CALL summer of 1958 and graduated with USNA Class of 1960 as a Marine Corps second lieutenant.

After graduation from The Basic School in Quantico, VA, Dave served as a rifle platoon commander and company executive officer with the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. He served as battalion adjutant/ personnel officer during deployment for the Cuban Missile Crisis. During the battalion’s yearlong deployment to the Western Pacific as 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Dave again served as company executive officer and commanding officer of Company B. Upon returning to the States, he was assigned to Marine Corps Air Station, El Toro, CA. He retired from the Reserve in 1982 with the rank of major.

Dave received an MBA from the University of California Berkeley in 1967. After receiving his PhD in business administration from the University of Rochester in 1972, he sailed his cutter-rigged sloop, INDRA, from New York to Puerto Rico before assuming a position as assistant professor at the University of California, Los Angeles.

After 14 years at UCLA, Dave became the Arthur E. Shephard Professor of Insurance at The Ohio State University in 1986. From 1995, he was the Phillip L. Boyd Endowed Chair in Finance and served as Dean of the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management, University of California Riverside (1997-1999). He retired in 2008, but continued working as an emeritus professor until 2013.

He is a recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus award from the Simon Graduate School of Business University of Rochester (1987). He published more than 40 articles in numerous journals, including the Journal of Financial Economics, the Journal of Business and the Journal of Finance.

Dave most enjoyed flying the Long-EZ plane he built, and later, his Grumman Tiger, hunting, fishing, traveling and reading.

He is survived by his wife, Marisel; siblings, Bill and Judy; daughter, Melissa; and grandchildren, Aiden, Reese and Quinn (born on 23 June 2022). He is immensely missed by all.

A memorial at sea was held in Puget Sound on 14 May 2022. H

MARSHALL REDFIELD WILLENBUCHER ’60 Captain Marshall R. Willenbucher, USN (Ret.), of Bethesda, MD, and Newport, RI, passed away on 30 April 2022 in Bethesda, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on 20 May 1936, he was the son of Captain Franz Otto Willenbucher, USN, and Amy Hart Willenbucher. He was a graduate of the Bullis School in Potomac, MD, and a member of the Class of 1960 at the United States Naval Academy.

Captain Willenbucher served on HAZELWOOD (DD-531), JOSEPH K. TAUSSIG (DE-1030), LEAHY (CG-17) and JOSEPHUS DANIELS (CG-16); and was commissioning commanding officer of O’BANNON (DD-987), which at the time was the newest ship in the United States Navy. He was chief staff officer of River Squadron 9 of the Mobile Riverine Force in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. Shore assignments included Ships Parts Control Center in Mechanicsburg, PA; Commander in Chief Naval Forces Europe in London, England; Fleet Introduction Team Spruance, Pascagoula, MS; the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations at the Pentagon; and the Naval Sea Systems Command. On retirement, he was the International Marketing Director for two Washington, DC, area firms.

An amateur radio operator since his teenage years, his call sign was W3YTS. His memberships included the “N” Club at the Naval Academy, The Army and Navy Club in Washington, DC, and the New York Yacht Club.

He was the devoted husband of the former Joan Croughan of Newport, RI. In addition to Joan, he is survived by his two sons, Timothy Redfield and Steven Hart Willenbucher (and his wife, Shannon Thomas Willenbucher); two grandchildren, Lauren Anderson and Thomas Hart Willenbucher; and several nieces and nephews. His son, Christopher Marshall, and his sisters, Dorothy W. Imlay and Shirley W. Randall, predeceased him.

The funeral will be held at a later date at the Naval Academy Chapel, followed by inurnment at the USNA Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (nmcrs.org) in his memory. H

JOSEPH ANTHONY KASALES ’61 Commander Joseph A. Kasales, USN (Ret.), of Woodbridge, VA, passed away on 10 September 2021.

“Joe” was born to John and Matilda Kasales on 25 February 1939, in Philadelphia, PA. He graduated from Tamaqua High School and went to Wyoming Seminary in Kingston, PA. He then entered the Naval Academy and graduated with the Class of 1961 as a member of the 14th Company.

Joe married Shirley Elizabeth Becker in 1961. During his service in the Navy, he was stationed at Pensacola, FL, New Iberia, LA, Corpus Christi, TX, NAS Moffett Field, Mountain View, CA, SAC Headquarters, Bellevue, NE, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA, NAS Barbers Point, Ewa Beach, HI, and NavAir, Washington, DC. After retiring, he volunteered at ACTS (ACTION in Community Through Service) in Dumfries, VA—picking up and distributing food for several years.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; and their three sons, Joseph A. Kasales Jr., Colonel Michael C. Kasales, USA (Ret.), and Douglas J. Kasales.

A memorial service and inurnment took place on 3 June 2022 at the Naval Academy Columbarium. H

JOHN OLA LINDGREN JR. ’62 Lieutenant Colonel John O. Lindgren Jr., USAF (Ret.), died on 3 May 2022 in Corona del Mar, CA. He was 82 years old.

Born in Hilo, HI, on 7 October 1939, John graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in Spokane, WA, in 1957 and attended the University of Washington for a year until receiving his appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy.

He graduated from Annapolis with the Class of 1962 and accepted a commission in the U.S. Air Force. He then attended the University of Southern California, where he was awarded a master’s degree in Engineering in 1964.

John started his Air Force career at Edwards Air Force Base, CA, where he was assigned to the Rocket Propulsion Laboratory and the Flight Test Center. He attended pilot training at Vance AFB, OK, where he was a Distinguished Graduate of Class 68E. During his flying career, he flew the C-141 transport and in Vietnam, flew the HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant helicopters and was credited with five combat rescues. After Vietnam, he was assigned to Travis AFB, CA, where he flew the C-5 aircraft. He retired in 1986 as a lieutenant colonel.

During his career, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (2), Air Medal (5) and the Purple Heart, as well as the Distinguished Service Medal (2).

After retirement, John worked at McDonnell Douglas in Long Beach, CA, as a manager of advanced programs and later at Ingram Micro as federal programs manager for the Government Division. He served on the board of directors of his homeowners’ association for ten years and on the management team at American Legion Post 291 in Newport Beach.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John O. Lindgren ’41 and Billie Jean (Garrett) Lindgren; and his sister, Greta Jean James. John is survived by his children, Lance Eric Lindgren and Heidi (Lindgren) Boyce; and his loving wife, Gale Marie Atwood.

Inurnment took place at Pacific View Memorial Park in Corona del Mar, CA, on 21 May 2022.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 173

LAST CALL Condolences and stories may be shared with the family at (lindgrenle@ gmail.com).

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the Veteran Emergency Assistance Fund (https://www.al291.com/veaf), sponsored by American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291; or feel free to donate to a charity of your choosing. H

JAMES COWSER CHENEY ’65 Captain James C. Cheney, SC, USN (Ret.), died of complications from COPD on 20 April 2022.

Born on 13 April 1943 in Sewickley, PA, “Jay” was the son of George P. and Charlotte C. Cheney.

He grew up in Mt. Lebanon, PA, where he graduated from high school in 1961.

At the Naval Academy, Jay was in the Sixth Company First Class Year and graduated with the Class of 1965. Following Supply School, he served in MULLANY (DD-528). Subsequent assignments included Coastal Squadrons I and III, RVN; Navy Regional Contracting Center (NRCC), Los Angeles; and the Office of the Director of Contracts, Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Installations and Logistics).

He was then assistant OIC, NRCC Naples IT; director of contracts for Naval Supply Center and Shipyard Bremerton WA; supply officer in JASON (AR-8); director of Naval Shore Activities, ComNavLogPac; Director, Navy Field Contracting System, Naval Supply Systems Command; commanding officer of both the Naval Supply Center and then Fleet Industrial Supply Center, Jacksonville FL; and Inspector General, Naval Supply System Command.

Jay held an MBA with distinction from the University of Michigan, graduated from the College of Naval Command and Staff - Navy War College with highest distinction and was a Certified Professional Contract Manager. His awards include the Legion of Merit (3), Meritorious Service Medal (2), a Presidential Unit Citation and the Combat Action Ribbon.

He was designated a Surface Warfare Supply Officer and was proud to be the most senior Supply Corps captain at his retirement. Jay was also proud to hold the USNA record for the shortest javelin throw when he tripped at a track meet at Penn State and hurled the javelin about 27”.

After retiring from the Navy in 1994, after 29 years, Jay worked in the Office of Contract Policy, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), then worked part time for them as an independent contractor.

Jay is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Lesley. His USNA urn engraving includes, “Husband of Lesley. Best decision I ever made.” He is also survived by their children, Johanna Anderson (Joel) and Mitch Cheney (Andrea); grandchildren, Morgan, Caelan, Jack and Camden; his siblings, George Cheney III and Elizabeth Cheney; and nephews, George and Keith Cheney. Jay’s parents and his sister’s second son, Grant, predeceased him.

Jay’s inurnment at the Naval Academy Columbarium will take place on 13 September 2022. H

RICHARD WILLIAM KROM ’65 Captain Richard W. Krom, USN (Ret.), formerly of Niantic, CT, died at his home in Old Lyme, CT, on 11 February 2022. He was 78 years old.

“Dick” was born in Peru, IN, on 8 October 1943, to Addison and Norma Krom, the second born of six children. He graduated from Roann High School in 1961 and was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy, where he graduated with a degree in Naval Science and Engineering, as a member of the 32nd Company, on 9 June 1965.

He married his high school sweetheart, Pamela Cline, on 13 June 1965 at the USNA Chapel.

Captain Krom served in the U.S. Navy for 26 years. He commanded KAMEHAMEHA (Blue Crew) (1981-1985) and also commanded Trident Command and Control System Maintenance Activity in Newport, RI (1985-1987). He was Chief of Staff, Commander Submarines Mediterranean in Naples, Italy (1988-1991). Captain Krom received a Master of Science in Management from Salve Regina College, Newport, RI, in 1988 and received a Master of Arts, National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in Newport, RI. After retirement, Dick was the coordinator of the Care and Share Soup Kitchen in Groton, CT, for almost 20 years. He served on the board of directors for UCP and for the New England Baptist Association. He was an elder at Pleasant Valley Community of Prayer and Praise Church in Groton, where he spent many hours maintaining the building and grounds.

He was the founder and president of Malta, Inc., which reaches out to help those who are homeless and poor in Southeastern Connecticut. We will never know just how many lives he helped save from certain destruction, but we do know that Dick was and is a Sword Bearer for Christ.

Dick is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pamela; their three children, Laura Krom Michaud, Kyle Krom and Kevin Krom; ten grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; and his five siblings. Dick fought Lewy Body dementia with Parkinson’s disease for several years. He never gave up.

His family and friends rejoice in his life and we praise God that Dick is no longer in pain.

A Celebration of Life service with military honors took place at Revelation Church in Groton, CT, on 20 April 2022.

Donations in Dick’s memory may be sent to Malta, Inc. P.O. Box 1071, Old Lyme, CT 06371; (www.maltaoutreach.org). H

JULES BERGER SELDEN ’67 Jules B. Selden of Norwell, MA, passed away peacefully on 19 May 2022.

He was born in Philadelphia, PA, to Bernard and Thelma Selden and was raised in Vineland, NJ. Jules attended the United States Naval Academy with the Class of 1967 and served in the Marine Corps from 1967 through 1972, including service in Vietnam.

After returning from Vietnam, Jules was stationed in Boston, where he met his beloved wife, Nancy. Jules and Nancy were married on 4 June 1972 and the two have lived in Norwell since 1975.

After graduating from law school in 1977, Jules eventually worked at Clean Harbors Environmental Services for over 20 years, acting as Vice President and Chief of Commercial Litigation.

While Jules and Nancy only became dog owners in recent years, they loved their sweet and gentle Bernie, and the slightly more rambunctious Brady, who they adopted a couple of years ago.

Jules is survived by his wife, Nancy Smith Selden; son and daughterin-law, Jonathan Selden and Erin Conneely Selden; and his sister, Michele St. Coeur.

A memorial service was held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA, on 23 May 2022.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) or the Vietnam Veterans of America (www.vva.org/donate).

Condolences may be left for the family at (www.mcnamara-sparrell.com). H

What can you do to promote world peace?

Go home and love your family. ~Mother Teresa

174 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

LAST CALL NEWTON HENRY MORGAN JR. ’69 Commander Newton H. Morgan Jr., USN (Ret.), 74, of Leland, NC, passed away peacefully on 16 April 2022 after a 12-year battle with Lymphoma.

“Newt” was born in Pottsville, PA, on 12 August 1947 to Newton and Ruth (Rawlins) Morgan. He spent his childhood as a Navy junior moving about the country before settling in Arlington, VA, and graduating from Bishop O’Connell High School. Newt attended the Naval Academy in the 13th and 19th Companies, graduating in 1969 with a minor in Operations Research.

Newt selected the Surface Warfare community and served initially as communications officer on EDWARD MCDONNELL (FF-1043). He was then assigned as an exchange officer to the Coast Guard as the CIC, then gunnery officer on CHASE (WHEC-718). Following attendance at the SWOS Department Head Course, Newt served as weapons officer aboard BIGELOW (DD-942). After earning an MS in Computer Systems Management at the Naval Postgraduate School, he was assigned as operations officer and ROH coordinator for WABASH (AOR-5). Subsequently, he served as computer systems support officer for FCDSSA, San Diego.

Newt returned to sea as scheduling officer for Cruiser-Destroyer Group 1/CTF-75. Following completion of the PXO course at SWOS, Newt served as executive officer of DOWNES (FF-1070). In addition to routine operations and training, Newt’s ten years of sea service included: a year of special ASW tactics development; four North Atlantic Ocean Station patrols: a Mediterranean and three Northern European; two Western Pacific deployments; three regular overhauls; and three REFTRA at Guantanamo. He completed his naval career in two space-related plankowner billets at the Naval Space Command and the U.S. Space Command.

After his retirement from the military in 1989, Newt worked in various roles for Vitro Corporation in Dahlgren, VA; GE Aerospace/LockheedMartin in Systems Integration Programs Group in Valley Forge, PA; ESPS, and for Galaxy Scientific at the FAA Technical Center immediately following 9/11. He retired as a Realtor for Long and Foster Inc., in Exton, PA, in 2010.

Newt was a devoted husband, father, youth coach and leader. He is survived by his cherished wife and best friend of 37 years, Deborah McGrattan Morgan; two sons; a daughter; and three grandchildren.

Newt’s son, Scott, predeceased him.

Newt will be buried at sea.

Your thoughts, memories, and condolences may be shared with the family at (www.andrewsmortuary.com). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (www.lls.org/givenow) or the Naval Academy Foundation (www.usna.com/give). H

JOHN JAY MANIS SR. ’70 John J. Manis departed this earth to be with his Lord and Savior on 31 January 2022. He now soars with angels with a new set of gold wings.

John was born on 7 December 1947, Pearl Harbor Day, a fitting start to a naval career. At age 8, he knew he wanted to serve his country, go to the Naval Academy and fly Navy jets. The son of Allen and Gloria Manis, he was appointed to USNA from the great state of Texas, graduating with the Class of 1970, 34th Company.

From graduation, it was straight to flight school in Pensacola, FL, where he met his sweetheart and wife, Betty Kelly; the same place his Marine aviator dad had met his mom. After receiving his Navy Wings at Beeville, TX, he remained as a F-9 instructor there. While on a training

flight one day, his F-9 became uncontrollable, and he and his student had no choice but to eject. This gave him automatic membership in the Martin Baker 3% club (pilots who have successfully ejected using a MB seat).

Told he would need his leg amputated, he refused. When told he would never walk again, he remarked “If Joe Namath can do it, so can I.” He did and he flew again! His next duty station was at Cecil Field. While there, he worked as admin officer, top-secret control officer, BOQ officer and JAG. After ten years, he left the Navy and decided to stay in Jacksonville, FL. John became a commercial real estate broker and general contractor.

He was known as “The Dealmaker,” by attorneys and clients alike. He was the top listing agent in Duval County while managing a successful real estate office. In the 1980s, he also flew for Continental Airlines.

Above all else, John served the Lord. He always had his Bible with him. An avid Bible student, he spent 40 years studying Greek, Hebrew and Bible prophecy and his writings will soon be published.

He was routinely asked to fly lobster in from Maine and Coors from Texas for squadron parties. He loved life and lived every day to the fullest. He would say that his life was well-lived, and all his missions successfully accomplished.

John is survived by his wife, Betty, and was a hero to their four children.

John was unique and will be missed. H

ROBERT HAROLD STUHLMAN ’71 Commander Robert H. Stuhlman, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 2 March 2022 in Virginia Beach, VA, with his family at his bedside after battling COVID-19 complications.

“Bob” grew up in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Harold and Doreen Stuhlman. He attended the University of Kansas for one year before accepting a nomination to the U.S. Naval Academy. He graduated with the 25th Company in 1971 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He then attained his master’s degree at the Naval Postgraduate School. He received his Navy Wings in Pensacola, FL, as a helicopter pilot.

Aviation assignments included HC6, HM16 and command of TachRon21.

Shore assignments included instructor duty at the U.S. Air Force Academy, the Naval War College, on the Pentagon staff and as Chief of Security at NOB Norfolk.

Following his retirement in 1994, Bob received a master’s degree in education at Old Dominion University. He then taught math for 23 years in the Virginia Beach middle schools.

Following his second retirement, he thoroughly enjoyed fishing with his friends in the Virginia Beach Anglers Club.

Bob was predeceased by his parents and younger sister, Kathy. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sue; his two sons, Brett and Gregory; three grandchildren; and his sister, Leslie.

Bob will be remembered as being proud of his naval service to this country and his love of family, friends and shipmates.

A memorial service is tentatively planned for early summer. H

GARY EDWARD SMITH ’72 Gary E. Smith of Naperville, IL, died peacefully at home on 16 April 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on 3 July 1950, in Kittery, ME, to Sam Edward Smith and Elaine Friedman Smith, Gary grew up (starting in 1956) near Pearl Harbor, where his father was stationed on the submarine base. He attended St. Louis High School in Honolulu and graduated from Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia in 1968. Appointed to the United States Naval Academy in 1968 by Sen. Daniel Inouye of JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 175

LAST CALL Hawaii, Gary graduated in 1972 with a degree in systems management, having competed for four years on the varsity swim team, swimming the 500, 1000 and 1500-yard freestyle and the 200-yard butterfly. He was a member of the 18th Company.

Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, he was assigned to the 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, at Camp LeJeune, NC, followed by 13 months in Okinawa with the 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. During Operation Frequent Wind in April 1975, he was assigned to MOBILE during the evacuation of Vietnam. His last Marine Corps assignment was at Camp Pendleton, CA, with the 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division and he left the service as a captain.

He enjoyed a career of more than 35 years in transportation and logistics, including working for Mobil Oil Corporation, Container Corporation of America, Gaylord Container Corporation and Minnesota Corn Processors.

At the time of his death, Gary and Judy had been married for 49 years.

They met right after the 1969 Rutgers-Navy game, when midshipmen who marched on during halftime were invited to eat dinner at Douglass College, the women’s college of Rutgers University. The Marine Corps and corporate life sent them to North Carolina, California, Virginia, New Jersey and Illinois.

After retirement, Gary enjoyed participating in the Masters Swimming program, volunteering at Loaves and Fishes and managing Judy’s Naperville City Council campaigns. He was honored in November 2021 by the Rotary Club of Naperville when he was awarded a Quilt of Valor.

Gary is survived by his wife, Judith Brodhead; and children, Matthew Patrick Brodhead Smith (Cora Neil) of Los Angeles, CA, Sarah Kristin Brodhead Smith (Paco Velez) of Tucson, AZ, and Mexico City, and Garrett Edward Brodhead Smith (Dee Campbell) of Seattle, WA. Gary’s ashes will be interred at the Naval Academy Columbarium on 28 October 2022, during the USNA Class of 1972’s 50th Reunion. H

ZAL BEALE HARRISON ’76 Zal B. Harrison II passed at his home in Las Vegas, NV, of natural causes on 22 January 2022. He was 67 years old.

Zal was born on 7 April 1954 in Memphis, TN, to Circuit Judge and Mrs. A.S. “Todd” Harrison. He grew up in nearby Blytheville, AR. At Blytheville High School, his achievements included the National Honor Society, president of the student council and Eagle Scout. He received congressional nominations from both Senator John McLellan and Senator William Fulbright and entered the Naval Academy as a member of the Class of 1976 with the 22nd Company.

Following graduation, he attended Supply Officer School in Athens, GA, before serving tours as mess treasurer at Naval Air Station, Beeville, TX, and Naval Station, Guam.

After his separation from the Navy in 1982, Zal began a career with the U.S. Postal Service. He earned a master’s degree in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas. Zal spent 22 years with the Postal Service, working positions in retail sales and mail operations. He was most proud of his work on the National Secretariat for the Universal Postal Union (UPU), the United Nations organization governing international postal policy, where he was responsible for hosting the 20th UPU World Congress in 1989. It was the first time the Congress had convened in the U.S. since 1897. Toward the end of his postal career, he returned to his Arkansas roots by serving as postmaster in charge of both the Little Rock and West Memphis post offices.

176 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

Zal was a passionate real estate investor. He had an extraordinary ability to successfully flip houses that he would buy, renovate and decorate and it became a lucrative second career. He was an avid outdoor enthusiast and loved to hike, walk and mountain bike several miles daily. Living in Las Vegas allowed him to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Zal was also a kind and compassionate individual who was always willing to encourage others and give back to his community. Zal’s motto was “pay it forward” for those less fortunate and he lived his life accordingly.

He is survived by his mother, Lonnie Harrison Craft; three siblings (and their spouses), LoNell Turner (Richard), Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Harrison, USAF (Ret.) (Polly) and Priscilla Etheredge (Raymond); and several nephews and nieces.

A service will be held on 15 September 2022 at 2 p.m. at the Naval Academy Chapel and Columbarium. H

MICKI LAINE FERNBAUGH ’79 Lieutenant Commander Micki L. Fernbaugh, USN (Ret.), passed away at his home in Stow, OH, on 17 February 2022. He was 64 years old.

Mick was born on 16 September 1957 in Harrisburg, PA, to Merkel and Shirley Fernbaugh.

He grew up in Dillsburg, PA, and attended Northern High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, graduating at the top of his class and lettering in both baseball and cross country.

Mick received his appointment to the Naval Academy and reported with the Class of 1979 on 7 July 1975. While at Navy, Mick was a proud member of the 29th Company, where he coached and played company softball all four years in addition to being active in the YP squadron. He majored in Operations Analysis and his ability to memorize and excel with a minimum of study time was a constant source of amazement to his Companymates. He met the love of his life, Sylvia, on 15 April 1978 and they were married on 16 February 1980 in the Naval Academy’s St. Andrews Chapel.

After graduation and before that February, Mick had been stationed at a recruiting office in Pennsylvania, for which his unit was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation. Mick earned his Naval Flight Officer Wings of Gold while in Sacramento. As a P3 navigator, he completed an operational tour stationed at NAS Brunswick, ME, with the VP-23 Seahawks. His deployments included Rota, Spain, the Azores and Bermuda.

Sylvia was able to visit for some of the weeks on each deployment.

Mick’s decorations also include the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with Star. During a subsequent shore tour at the Center for Naval Analysis, Mick was diagnosed with a debilitating heart condition and was medically retired in 1989. He dealt with health-related issues for decades.

In his later years, Mick was given many gifts and talents. After learning how to crochet, he taught himself complicated techniques. He loved various fibers and colors and made intricate lacework. He loved writing poetry and drawing art. His Bible translation studies and daily prayer list were very important to him. He found great peace in his love of the Lord.

In addition to Sylvia, Mick is survived by their children, Ashley and Josiah.

A funeral with full military honors will take place at Arlington National Cemetery.

Mac Silvester ’79 & The Fernbaugh Family H

LAST CALL CHRISTOPHER ANTHONY O’BALLE ’92 Colonel Christopher A. O’Balle, USMCR (Ret.), passed away on 6 February 2022, following a courageous battle with ALS. He was 52 years old.

“Kibber” was born in San Francisco, CA, on 3 January 1970 to Joe and Donna O’Balle. He was raised in South San Francisco and attended St. Ignatius High School. Kib entered the U.S. Naval Academy on 2 July 1988. He immediately made an impact with his fellow 8th Platoon, Charlie Company classmates during Plebe summer with his quick wit, sheepish grin and physical fitness. Plebe summer had many “fond” memories for Kib, including a late arrival for a noon meal formation which quickly taught him that, “time, tide and formation wait for no one.” He became a great leader among his classmates by the examples that he set in academics, sports and training Plebes. He truly never met a stranger, but rather just friends that he had not met before.

He was a varsity sprint football player, company executive officer, and graduated with the Class of 1992 as a member of the 26th Company.

Upon graduation, Kibber was commissioned a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Following a summer tour as an Academy drill officer, he reported to flight school in Pensacola, FL. Kibber received his gold naval aviator wings in 1994 and became a legend in the Marine Corps Cobra community. He deployed numerous times with Marine Expeditionary units and to Okinawa, Japan. During a combat deployment to Iraq in 2004, Kibber was involved in a mid-air collision involving two U.S. Cobras. He escaped his crashed helo and quickly realized that the crew from the other aircraft were trapped. He ran to the other Cobra and cut the pilot out of the burning helicopter with his knife. Kibber exuded leadership and in 2016, the Marine Corps selected him to reconstitute and command the Reserve Cobra squadron, HMLA-775. He accomplished this mission, as with every mission, with flawless execution.

Kibber is survived by his wife of 23 years, the former Pamela Rowe of San Diego, CA; sons, Cole and Connor; his mother, Donna O’Balle; and brothers, Joseph and Michael O’Balle.

Memorial services were conducted on 27 April 2022 at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, CA, with full military honors. Kib’s former squadron, HMLA-775, provided the flyover. H

AARON PAUL FOWLER ’18 Lieutenant Junior Grade Aaron P. Fowler, USN, died on Easter Sunday, 17 April 2022, in a military training accident in Hawaii.

Born on 6 November 1992, Aaron grew up in Tulsa, OK, with his parents and three brothers. His upbringing instilled an intense work ethic and motivation for self-challenge.

He wanted everything from life, which carried him through many countries, callings and experiences. He made the uncommon choice to pause his Navy education for two years of overseas missions to North Africa. He graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Naval Academy with the Class of 2018.

Upon his commissioning, Aaron spent a year and a half attaining a master’s degree in Arabic studies at Georgetown University, including overseas language training in Oman. In DC, he found a close church family in Capitol Hill Baptist.

Aaron’s frequent travel reflected his intense curiosity for the world and his deep desire for community and relationships. Though reserved, Aaron was not shy to express his honest opinions or to question those around him. He challenged himself most of all, though you wouldn’t know it to see him. His easygoing nature and willingness to help those around him made for fast friendships, and his loyalty in the midst of his many commitments made the friendships stick. Everyone who knew him knew also of his strong devotion to Christ.

After completing his master’s in 2019, Aaron finally began two years of rigorous physical and academic Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training. In January 2022, upon successful completion of the EOD training pipeline, he reported to EOD Mobile Unit ONE in San Diego, CA. Aaron is survived by his parents, Charles and Lou-Ann Fowler; his older brother, Ethan (and his wife, Kristen Williams); and younger brothers, Austin and Evan.

Aaron is remembered for his kindness, wit, sarcasm and selflessness.

He is strong and singular, missed by many around the world and now at home with his Heavenly Father. H

COLUMBARIUM For more information, visit usna.edu/cemetery/

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 177

CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE • SOUTH EAST

REAL ESTATE • SOUTH EAST

REAL ESTATE • SOUTH WEST

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

RICK STEIN USNA ’82 (843) 557-7021 Rick.Stein@CBCarolinas.com REAL ESTATE • MID WEST

REAL ESTATE • ANNAPOLIS

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CHARLOTTE CHURCH (Wife of Dave ’67 and Mom of Kimberly ’91)

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charlotte.church@penfedrealty.com www.CharlotteChurch.PENFEDREALTY.com

410-279-7512

* 410-266-0600

1997 Annapolis Exchange Parkway Suite 101, Annapolis, MD 21401 178 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE • ANNAPOLIS

REAL ESTATE • ANNAPOLIS

REAL ESTATE • ANNAPOLIS

DESTINATION DC? Karen Martins (Wife of John ’87 and Mom of John ’17)

2022 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Follow Navy Football online at: navysports.com 1-800-US4-NAVY

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Here to help you navigate through the complex Metro Market!

(703) 568-6268 Serving VA, MD & DC WWW.KARENSPROPERTIES.COM kmartins@mcenearney.com

Annapolis Waterfront Specialist JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 179

CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE • WEST

REAL ESTATE • WEST

The San Diego Union-Tribune Selects Eric Kalisky as the Best Realtor for San Diego For Honest and Expert Real Estate Representation Call Eric.

CDR Eric Kalisky ’78 (Ret.) 858-232-4671 E-Mail: EKALISKY@AOL.COM VISIT: www.erickalisky.com

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services San Diego’s Number One Real Estate Company

Moving to COLORADO?

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(720) 840-5499 CoPremierRealty@gmail.com

CoPremierRealty.com “19 years of exceptional Denver and Colorado Springs area real estate expertise, specializing in active duty and veteran transactions”

REAL ESTATE • EAST PENTAGON, DC, NORTHERN VIRGINIA

********** Military Relocation Specialist

Wife of Scott ’94 Associate Broker

Cutting Edge Marketing Listing, Sales, Rental Northern Virginia Office 8045 Burke Centre Parkway Burke, VA 22015

joyce.wadle@longandfoster.com Reputation for Excellence Making your move my priority!

180 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

REAL ESTATE • EAST

CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE • EAST

REAL ESTATE • EAST

REAL ESTATE • EAST

Duncan Ingraham ’66 dningraham1@gmail.com Cell: 401-640-5928

Jeannie Ingraham jsingraham@aol.com Cell: 401-640-5929

CENTURY 21 Top Sail

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 181

CLASSIFIEDS FINANCIAL SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICES

Forensic Accounting Services Mike Dashiell, Class of 1985 Experienced in complex financial investigations, corporate internal investigations, will and probate disputes, fraud, embezzlement and intellectual property infringement.

FBI Agent (Ret.), CPA, CFE, PI call: 757-633-5502 or email: GOUSNA1985@gmail.com

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182 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

MISCELLANY

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www.diamondsbyjpc.com jcolli74@msn.com

SHIPMATE More than 80 years available online to all Alumni Association members. Visit usna.com/shipmate

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Please contact Maria O’Shea via email or phone for space availability — even if the due date has passed, we will try to be as flexible as possible.

JULY-AUGUST 2022 • SHIPMATE 183

EXECUTIVE OFFICE Jeff Webb’95 President/CEO Kara Fagley Executive Administrator for the President

410-295-4090 410-295-4092

VOLUME 85 • NO. 5 Editor-in-Chief Craig Washington ’89 craig.washington@usna.com Editorial Managing Editor Jimmy DeButts jimmy.debutts@usna.com Associate Editor Samantha Casamassima samantha.casamassima@usna.com Assistant Editors Anne Sharpe anne.sharpe@usna.com Bridie Bryant bridie.bryant@usna.com Design and Production Art Director/Production Manager Jackie Furton jackie.furton@usna.com Assistant Production Manager/Classes Editor Maria O’Shea maria.oshea@usna.com Chapter and Classes Editor Sandra Stansbury-Spadaro sandy.spadaro@usna.com Obituaries Editor Timothy Elizabeth Woodbury timothy.woodbury@usna.com Associate Art Director Heather Payne heather.payne@usna.com Copyeditors Captain Andrew Wilson ’77, USNR (Ret.) Kat Braz Contributing Editor Captain David Poyer ’71, USNR (Ret.) Contributing Photographers Captain Laura Hatcher ’92, USN (Ret.) Debbie Latta Contact Shipmate 410-295-4000 Main 410-295-4003 Fax 410-295-4074 Classified Advertising 410-295-4020 Display Advertising 410-295-4000 Address Updates/Corrections Submissions Editorial shipmate@usna.com Address/Delivery alumni@usna.com Bravo Zulu comms@usna.com Class payments checkreques@usna.com Chapter ColumnsS chapternews@usna.com Class ColumnsS classnews@usna.com Obituaries obits@usna.com Register of Alumni registerofalumni@usna.com S

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Opinions expressed in Shipmate are those of the authors.

They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or attitude of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association, its officers or editorial staff. All pictures are official Department of Defense photographs unless otherwise credited. Member, Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

Shipmate (ISSN 0488-6720) is published monthly except for combined issues (January-February, MarchApril, May, June, July-August, September, October and November-December). Copyrighted 2022 by the United States Naval Academy Alumni Association, Inc., 247 King George Street, Annapolis, MD 21402-1306. Membership dues (including Shipmate) are $70 per year. Subscription rate is $70; Canadian and foreign subscriptions are $75.

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All editorial matter should be addressed to Jimmy DeButts, p: 410-295-4085, jimmy.debutts@usna.com. Inquiries concerning membership or subscriptions and notification of change of address of members and subscribers should be addressed to U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association, 247 King George St., Annapolis, MD 21402-1306; p: 410-295-4062; alumni@usna.com.

184 SHIPMATE • JULY-AUGUST 2022

ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS Craig Washington ’89 410-295-4089 Executive Vice President, Engagement and Communications Elizabeth Beedenbender 410-295-4166 Executive Administrator Dr. Sofi Loomis ’99 410-295-4035 Senior Director, Alumni Regional Engagement and Outreach Cody Dickson ’13 410-295-4037 Alumni Engagement Director Isaac Phillips ‘19 410-295-4036 Alumni Engagement Officer Joe Fagan ’89 410-295-4013 Director, Career Programs Wendy Owen 410-295-4017 Director, Class Programs Lori Coogan 410-295-4038 Director, Parent Programs Carrie Carroll 410-295-4062 Membership/Records Assistant Ashley Parker 410-295-4000 Member Services Coordinator Amy Garwood 410-295-4000 Member Services Coordinator Programs and Services Tonya McGinnis 410-295-4022 Assistant Director, Career Programs Melissa Nelson 410-295-4021 Coordinator, Joint Service Academy Career Programs Communications Wes Huey ’87 410-295-4023 Executive Director, Strategic Communications Dr. Heather Epkins 410-295-4175 Director of Communications Emily Lucht 410-295-4047 Director, Digital Communications Jackie Furton 410-295-4073 Associate Director, Publications Jimmy DeButts 410-295-4085 Managing 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 Samantha Casamassima 410-295-4027 Communications Specialist Timothy Elizabeth Woodbury 410-295-4064 Memorial Affairs Heather Payne 410-295-4033 Associate Art Director Bridie Bryant 410-295-4081 Communications Coordinator EVENTS AND MARKETING Alexandra Dooley 410-295-4012 Director, Enterprise Events and Marketing Bridgette Lundfelt 410-295-4030 Associate Director, Engagement Experience and Sponsorship Gail Hutchinson 410-295-4019 Event Planner Laura Cylc 410-295-4014 Event Coordinator Judy Buddensick 443-994-2511 Partnership Marketing Liason TREASURY AND OPERATIONS Robert “Bob” Gast Jr. 410-295-4040 Executive Vice President and CFO Gwenn Dennis 410-295-4091 Executive Assistant Lisa Strobel 410-295-4051 Senior Director, Finance and Treasury Operations

TREASURY AND OPERATIONS CONTINUED Kevin Mitchell 410-295-4039 Director, Treasury, Analytics & Investment Reporting Tim Smith 410-295-4059 Director, Financial Reporting Angela Berteaux 410-295-4053 Accounting Manager Janet Douglas 410-295-4057 Staff Accountant Julie Kopp 410-295-4054 Payroll Manager Linda Reyes 410-295-4056 Staff Accountant Jim Scally 410-295-4058 Staff Accountant Patricia (Patty) Ratigan 410-295-4028 Staff Accountant Information Technology Garrett Keating 410-295-4087 Director, Information Technology Jordan Bailey 410-295-4060 Computer and Information Systems Manager Denise Clark 410-295-4079 Database Engineer Derrick Planz 410-295-4067 Senior Software Developer Rick Clark 410-295-4088 Systems Administrator Sean Henson 410-295-4083 Help Desk Technician Ashley Norfolk 410-295-4084 SQL Application Developer Facilities Scott Gaiser ’05 410-295-4068 Director, Real Estate, Facilities and IT Operations John Cooper410-295-4031 Facilities Manager John Taylor 410-295-4029 Facilities Assistant HUMAN RESOURCES Tom Cloutier 410-295-4050 Human Resources Generalist DEVELOPMENT Bill O’Connor 410-295-4101 Executive Vice President Abby Repko 410-295-4103 Exec. Administrator/Principal Gift Administrator Development John Rudder ’78 410-295-4189 Vice President of Development Erin Pelletier 410-295-4106 Principal Gift Strategist Caroline Rossiello 410-295-4190 Assistant Director, Corp. and Foundation Relations Major Gifts Michael Hoffman 410-295-4184 Executive Director, Regional Development Ashley “AJ” Bauer 410-295-4160 Senior Director of Dev. (TX and W Coast FL) John Maconi 410-295-4185 Regional Director of Dev. (Annapolis, DC Metro, Chicago and Pacific NW)

Dean Castaldo 410-295-4052 Regional Director of Dev. (E Coast FL, NC and GA) Ted Ahrens 410-295-4183 Regional Director of Development Lexxie Monahan 410-295-4128 Regional Director of Development Brittanny Lee 410-295-4182 Assistant Director, Regional Development Kate Peterson 410-295-4178 Senior Development Coordinator Planned Giving Patti Bender 410-295-4187 Senior Director, Planned Giving

STAFF AND ASSISTANCE DEVELOPMENT CONTINUED Jennifer Macris 410-295-4105 Planned Giving Coordinator Annual Programs Rusty Yeiser ’74 410-295-4174 Senior Director, Annual Programs Dan Quattrini ’81 410-295-4167 Director, Class Legacy Gift Programs Gabbie Kulcsar 410-295-4147 Director, Annual Giving Megan Farmer 410-295-4188 Director, President’s Circle Clay Evans 410-295-4034 Coordinator, Class Legacy Gift Programs Hannah Geib 410-295-4127 Annual Giving Programs Coordinator Development Services Adriana Bitoun 410-295-4150 Director, Advancement Services Dawn Beach 410-295-4115 Director, Foundation Data and Reporting Natalie Brianas 410-295-4102 Director, Donor Relations and Stewardship Catherine Blanar 410-295-4111 Assoc. Director, Donor Relations and Stewardship Jill Cook 410-295-4121 Associate Director, Research Gift Administration Team Liz Root 410-295-4126 Director, Gift Administration Victoria Sever 410-295-4122 Assistant Director, Gift Administration Elvira Reyes 410-295-4116 Gift Administrator Shirley Crawford 410-295-4071 Gift Administrator FOUNDATION ATHLETIC AND SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS Don Hughes ’88 410-295-4096 Vice President Tracey Cook 410-295-4164 Director Mariola Baker 410-295-4098 Assistant Director QUICK REFERENCE Death Notifications

obits@usna.com 410-295-4064 Class Ring Information classrings@usna.com Register of Alumni registerofalumni@usna.com Address/Delivery alumni@usna.com 410-295-4000 Donate 410-295-4115 Membership Updates 410-295-4000 U.S. Naval Academy Main Phone 410-293-1000 U.S. Naval Academy Athletics 410-293-2700 CONTACT US U. S. Naval Academy Alumni Association 247 King George St., Annapolis, MD 21402-1306 Main Phone 410-295-4000 Ogle Hall Fax 410-295-4001 49 House Fax 410-295-4005 Human Resources Fax 443-458-0972 Cottage Fax 410-295-4003 Foundation Development 274 Wood Rd., Annapolis, MD 21402 Main Phone 410-295-4100 Fax 410-295-4107 Foundation Athletic and Scholarship Programs 25 Maryland Ave., Annapolis, MD 21401 Main Phone 410-295-4095

The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation’s new President and CEO, Jeff Webb ’95, co-founded the Shared Interest Group Run to Honor because he, like many other alumni, was inspired to venerate those alumni killed in action or in military operations in service to our nation, and to support Naval Academy Gold Star families.

VIRTUAL MEMORIAL HALL provides another avenue to honor the more than 2,700 alumni whose names grace the granite walls of Memorial Hall.

Visit and ensure that those who have made the ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Visit Virtual Memorial Hall and share your memories of fallen classmates and shipmates at

www.usnamemorialhall.org