WORDS
FLAT BILL FALL TRAVELS Shipmate thanks all those who packed Flat Bill and shared their travel photos. We hope to see more pictures of Flat Bill’s adventures. Send submissions to jimmy.debutts@usna.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CDR GERALD SABER ’63, USN (RET.)
PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT STEVE STRUBLE ’80, USN (RET.)
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CDR Gerald Saber ’63, USN (Ret.), and Flat Bill visited Government House in Road Town on the island of Tortola while on a recent Norwegian Cruise aboard Aqua.
CAPT Steve Struble ’80, USN (Ret.), took Flat Bill on vacation to Alaska where they visited Bill’s “relatives” in the Yukon Territory.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JERRY ADAMS ’72
PHOTO COURTESY OF CDR MICHAEL “MOKE” O’CONNOR ’72, USNR (RET.)
Jerry Adams ’72 is a permanent resident of the memory care unit in a nursing home in North Carolina. He welcomes contact and visits. PHOTO COURTESY OF CRIS HESS ’83
Flat Bill and CDR Michael “Moke” O’Connor ’72, USNR (Ret.), dove to the bridge of aircraft carrier Oriskany, which was sunk in May 2006 to serve as an artificial reef off the Pensacola, FL, coast. PHOTO COURTESY OF CRIS HESS ’83
Flat Bill accompanied Cris Hess ’83 to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.
Cris Hess ’83 is with Flat Bill at Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa.
PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
COMMUNITY SERVICE By Jeff Webb ’95
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he sound of a shovel scraping brick was a welcome refrain for many Annapolis residents in late January. About 8 inches of snow blanketed the city on 25 January with an overnight wintery mix creating a treacherous frozen landscape. Thanks to members of the Midshipmen Action Group (MAG), many Annapolitans in need had their sidewalks and stairways cleared. These midshipmen exemplify service over self by volunteering to assist their neighbors outside the walls of the Yard. Selfless service doesn’t begin in the Fleet or Marine Corps. It starts in Annapolis. MAG is a tangible way midshipmen put the value of service into action. Their service illustrates how the Naval Academy is part of the fabric of Annapolis, just as the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation remains deeply connected to the city and its businesses, nonprofits and institutions. From the annual croquet match with St. John’s College to hosting nonprofit fundraising galas at the Fluegel Alumni Center, we are committed to being a positive partner in the Annapolis community. SWO SELECTION In one of the most energetic annual evolutions on the Yard, first class midshipmen who have been assigned as surface warfare officers (SWO) were able to select their ships on 5 February in Alumni Hall. Cheered on by family, classmates, faculty and alumni, and wearing their new black leather SWO jackets, our future SWOrriors bound across the stage to the beat of their chosen walk-up songs and pulled their ship names off white boards. As they weighed their home port and platform preferences, many had to consider what mattered most once they were “on the clock.” Superintendent Lieutenant General Michael Borgschulte ’91, USMC, was joined by his two recent predecessors, Vice Admiral Fred Kacher ’90, USN, and Vice Admiral Yvette Davids ’89, USN, on Ship Selection night. We wish these 4 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
midshipmen the best as they lead sailors and stand watch around the globe. FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS For 29 years, Sandy Spadaro has been an invaluable conduit for alumni to share class, chapter and Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) news. On 1 May, she will retire. Sandy and Maria O’Shea have been stalwarts on Shipmate’s staff for more than a quarter century. They have the sacred duty of ensuring class notes are submitted and placed on the page for Shipmate’s most popular feature. We thank Sandy for her tireless dedication to Shipmate and the alumni community. She has witnessed quite an evolution during her tenure. When Sandy arrived, she received class notes via snail mail and had to scan photos and return the originals to the class secretaries. Technology has changed that process dramatically, but what has remained constant is Sandy’s professionalism and passion for helping share alumni stories. We wish Sandy, and her husband, Paul, Fair Winds and Following Seas as they enjoy retirement on the Magothy River. BEAT ARMY! BZ to Navy athletics for notching six N Star series victories over Army in February. Gymnastics, men and women’s track, men’s and women’s basketball and the rifle team Beat Army to push Navy’s Star Game record to 13-5-1 during the 2025-26 academic year. We are excited about what the coming months will offer in terms of connection, engagement and support to USNA, parents and the alumni. We are thrilled to host the 50 Years of Women at USNA Celebration Conference and Gala at the Fluegel Alumni Center on 16-19 April. These weekend events are the result of months of hard work and coordination by the 50 Years of Women leadership and the USNA Women Shared Interest Group. That weekend also features the Annapolis Cup Croquet Match with St. Johns. The Alumni Association & Foundation will once again have a tent
Members of MAG volunteered to shovel sidewalks for Annapolis residents in need following a late January snowstorm.
on the pitch. Please check myUSNA.com for details and join us for an amazing weekend. In May, we will celebrate Class of 2026 commissioning into the Fleet and Marine Corps. And just like that … another academic year is in the books. Thanks for coming on the ride with us. HAIL AND FAREWELL At the end of April, we will bid farewell to our Alumni Association Vice Chair, Lieutenant General Dave “Smoke” Beydler ’81, USMC (Ret.). During his six year tenure, General Beydler played a central role in shaping the culture and strategy of the Board through his leadership on multiple committees, including his chairmanship of the Alumni Association & Foundation Joint Finance and Audit committee. Beyond his friendship and mentorship, what I have appreciated most about General Beydler is his ability to challenge assumptions and drive creative dialogue. While doing so, he is always asking—sometimes openly, sometimes sublimely—what is the right thing to do? How can we best serve our alumni? How can we best support the Naval Academy? When it comes to alumni leadership, however, we have an embarrassment of riches and are fortunate to have Major General Austin “Sparky” Renforth ’88, USMC (Ret.), taking the baton from General Beydler. General Renforth began his career as an enlisted sailor in 1982. After commissioning as a second lieutenant, he held command at every level throughout his 40-year military career. We are thrilled to have General Renforth take the helm as vice chair in a few short weeks. a
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VOLUME 89 • NO. 2
NINETIES ALUMNAE
IN THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS 4 Letter from the President
The second decade of women at USNA assume leadership roles. 14
Jeff Webb ’95
6 All Hands 6 Advertisers Index 23 5 Minutes With 32 Bravo Zulu 38 Class News
REWARDING ENGAGEMENT
LtGen Beydler ’81 found satisfaction as a volunteer leader with USNA AA&F, hands MajGen Renforth ’88 reins as Board of Trustees vice chair. 24
97 Chapter News
MISSION ASSISTANCE North Texas alumni rally to aid The Salvation Army project.
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117 Shared Interest Groups 118 Last Call 137 Classified Ads 144 Staff and Assistance
HONORING HAXTON ’94 McDonough shares the legacy of a fallen roommate. 34
TIME KEEPER
CENTURY OF SERVICE
Ferrara ’65 creates news “time capsules” for midshipmen. 37
Families of the Class of 1926 plan final celebration. 28 Get the Goat
This Bill is hiding somewhere in this issue. Find him and email us at getthegoat@usna.com with the correct page number and you will be entered into a drawing for a prize from the Alumni Association. Good luck! The drawing is limited to the first 100 correct answers, so get reading. Bill wass hanging out with the cheerleaders in the bottom image on page 48 in the January-February 2026 issue of Shipmate.
Our Mission
We strengthen our MEMBERS’ BONDS to the Academy and to each other, to help them THRIVE AS LEADERS in and out of uniform and reach their FULL POTENTIAL.
SHIPMATE is the official alumni magazine of the United States Naval Academy. On the Cover MIDN Isabella Baldwin ‘27 and the Navy rifle team defeated Army in February for a fifth-consecutive N Star in the series. Photo courtesy of Army
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 5
ALL HANDS
PHOTO COURTESY OF NASA
WWII Documentary Sundown to Eleven Now Streaming Free on YouTube
CAPT Sunita “Suni” Williams ’87, USN (Ret.), retired after 27 years with NASA on 27 December 2025. She logged 608 days in space and owns the record for the most spacewalk time by a woman.
Williams ’87 Retires from NASA Astronaut Captain Sunita “Suni” Williams ’87, USN (Ret.), concluded her 27-year career as an astronaut on 27 December 2025. During her tenure with NASA, Williams completed three missions aboard the International Space Station and completed nine spacewalks, totaling 62 hours and 6 minutes, ranking as the most spacewalk time by a woman and fourth-most on the all-time cumulative spacewalk duration list. She logged 608 days in space, second on the list of cumulative time in space by a NASA astronaut. She ranks sixth on the list of longest single spaceflight by an American, tied with NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, who amassed 286 days during NASA’s Boeing Starliner and SpaceX Crew-9 missions. She was also the first person to run a marathon in space. Her final space mission was aboard the Starliner spacecraft in June 2024 as part of NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test mission. Williams took command of the space station for Expedition 72, completed two spacewalks on the mission and returned to Earth in March 2025, as part of the agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission. Williams is a 2025 U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation Distinguished Graduate Award recipient. She is a retired Navy captain and an accomplished helicopter and fixed-wing pilot, having logged more than 4,000 flight hours in 40 different aircraft. “Anyone who knows me knows that space is my absolute favorite place to be,” Williams said. “It’s been an incredible honor to have served in the Astronaut Office and have had the opportunity to fly in space three times ... I hope the foundation we set has made these bold steps a little easier. I am super excited for NASA and its partner agencies as we take these next steps, and I can’t wait to watch the agency make history.” ¨
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Sundown to Eleven, a documentary from director George Retelas, is streaming free on YouTube. The film stars Richard “Dick” Miralles, the last surviving member of the U.S. Navy’s Air Group 11, who passed away on 13 November 2025, at age 101. The film was released on Pearl Harbor Day and fulfills Miralles’ final wish to honor his fallen WWII comrades. The documentary follows Miralles as he embarks on a deeply personal final mission—uncovering the fate of “Sundowner” fighter pilot Commander Frederick R. Schrader ’35, USN, who was shot down in his Hellcat during the Pacific War. With the help of lead investigator Lieutenant Matt Robins ’04, USNR, and volunteers from the USS Hornet Museum, along with the support of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Miralles returns to Pearl Harbor eight decades after his service. Along the way, he revisits battle sites, takes to the skies in a Dauntless dive-bomber and reflects on the cost of service and the power of remembrance. Blending the suspense of a cold case with the soul of a cross-country odyssey, Sundown to Eleven is a moving tribute to the enduring sacrifice of Gold Star families. To view the film, click www.youtube.com/ GeorgeRetelas. ¨
LT Matt Robins ’04, USNR, helped produce Sundown to Eleven, a documentary film that examines the fate of “Sundowner” fighter pilot CDR Frederick R. Schrader ’35, USN. The film was released in December and is free to watch on YouTube.
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Academy Securities.............. Back Cover Blue Forge Alliance............................... 13 NFCU.........................................................9 Oak Street Mortgage......................... 137 Otterson Wealth Advisors.................. 31 Trident Home Loans........................... 137 Trophy Point Capital............................... 3 USAA....................27, Inside Front Cover USNA FDN—Great Class Challenge...............Inside Back Cover
USNA FDN—Planned Giving.............33 USNA Women.......................................22 United States Navy Memorial............25 Weitz & Luxenberg..................................1 Alumni Products and Services Alumni Travel 2027...........................69 Fluegel Alumni Center......................96 Service Academy Career Conference 2026............ 84
PHOTO COURTESY OF USNA
U.S. Naval Academy Dean and Provost Dr. Samara L. Firebaugh (right), honors CDR Tim Disher ’81, USN (Ret.), during a retirement ceremony in December 2025 in Nimitz Library.
Fair Winds and Following Seas to Disher ’81 Commander Tim Disher ’81, USN (Ret.), retired on 3 December 2025 as the U.S. Naval Academy’s director, International Programs Office, after 18 years of service. He was responsible for coordinating international engagement programs for faculty, staff and 4,500 midshipmen, including semester study abroad, immersion and professional exchanges. Disher’s retirement ceremony was held at Nimitz Library. Disher joined the submarine community upon commissioning. He was selected as a foreign area officer and assigned to serve as the liaison officer in Madrid, Spain, for all cooperative programs between the U.S. and Spanish navies. He retired from the U.S. Navy on 1 September 2007. “Tim, on behalf of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation, thank you for building the Naval Academy’s International Programs into the amazing program that it is today,” said Alumni Association Executive Vice President Captain TJ Grady ’96, USN (Ret.). “Every year our alumni ask how they can support the program because they believe in its mission … exposing midshipmen to different international cultures so that they are better prepared when they commission and enter the Fleet. From a personal perspective, I’m eternally grateful to you for allowing me to be a part of the program while stationed here as the DepDant. “Fair winds and following seas!” ¨
Prefer Digital Shipmate Delivery? Opt Out of Print Version The enterprise frequently receives requests from members to stop receiving the print version of Shipmate. If you prefer a digital version of Shipmate and would like to opt out of the print version, scan this QR code. ¨
myUSNA Strengthens Alumni Connections One of the best ways to experience the strength of the U.S. Naval Academy alumni community is to see it in action, and the Boston Chapter is a great example of what that looks like on myUSNA. If you visit boston.myUSNA.com, you’ll find a page that captures what the platform was designed for: connecting shipmates, sharing updates and bringing alumni together through real-world engagement. myUSNA serves as our central engagement hub where alumni, parents, family and supporters can join chapters, Shared Interest Groups, classes and parent clubs to sign up for events, and connect with friends all in one place. The Boston Chapter demonstrates how powerful that can be. Chapters like Boston exist to build camaraderie among alumni through communication and events, serving as local communities where members can strengthen friendships and stay connected to the Naval Academy. And with more than 100 official chapters worldwide, chances are there’s a local network near you ready to welcome you aboard. If you haven’t explored your own chapter or group yet, now’s the time. Logging in takes just a moment, and once you’re in, you can search for your local chapter, class page, parent club or Shared Interest Group and join with a click. You can even download the app to explore and engage. Whether you’re looking for professional networking, social events, mentoring opportunities or simply a way to stay connected to the Yard and your fellow graduates, myUSNA brings it all together in one place. The Boston Chapter is just one example of what’s possible when alumni take advantage of the platform: an active, welcoming and engaged community that keeps the blue and gold spirit strong well beyond graduation, and far from the Severn. So, log in, explore and get involved. Your shipmates are already there.
Help is Here
Do you have questions as you register for myUSNA? Wondering how you can get even more involved? We have a great help section at myUSNA.com/page/help that can take you through the most frequent questions we receive. If that doesn’t answer your question, we have a team that can help you out at myUSNAfeedback@ usna.com. The team is there to ensure you’ve got what you need to get logged on and involved in your community! ¨ MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 7
ALL HANDS
Malaysian alumni of the U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Coast Guard Academy gathered in December 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. The attendees included (left to right): LCDR Lau Yew Pang ’09; Dr. Al-Shafiq bin Abdul Wahid ’93; Ahmad Fahmi bin Jahaya ’95; Abdullah Zahri bin Abdul Azizis ’94; CAPT Suhaimi bin Sani ’93, RMN (Rtd.); CAPT Pasit Somboonpakron, USN; FADM Ir. Franklin Jeyasekhar Joseph ’93; Michele P. Exner ’07; Serena Pfeiffer, chief of staff for Global Public Affairs; LT Dya Janushaa Bala Krishnan Muthiah ’22; Maj Ron J. Lienhardt; Morgan O’Brien, U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur; Hisham Selamat, U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur; LT Ir. Ts. Chan Jun Kwan ’16; Muzaffar bin Abdul Halim ’17; and LT Mohamad Fitri Bin Mohd Idris ’19.
Bridging the Indo-Pacific Strengthening the people-to-people ties behind the U.S.-Malaysia security partnership, Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Global Public Affairs Michelle Exner ’07, USMC, met with Malaysian U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Coast Guard Academy alumni in Kuala Lumpur in December 2025. The group represented the deep impact of the military exchange program, ranging from the admiral overseeing Malaysia’s Littoral Combat Ship project to officers instrumental in binational exercises like Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT). The evening highlighted the strategic value and lifelong connections forged through U.S. service academy exchanges. Since 1993, there have been 41 Malaysians who earned their commissions at U.S. service academies; 10 of them joined A/S Exner, as did Defense Attaché Captain Pasit Somboonpakron ’96, USN, and Deputy Naval Attaché Commander Kris Newberry ’00, USN.” ¨
On 16 December 2025, the U.S. Naval Academy memorial for the 174 alumni killed in Vietnam and the two killed in NASA’s space program was dedicated in Titusville, FL, at the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum. Commissioned by Lieutenant Commander Doug Matthews ’67, USNR (Ret.), the granite obelisk is 8 feet tall and features two engraved sides. Approximately 50 people— including 20 members of the Class of 1967—attended the ceremony. The wreath laying was performed by Matthews and Jane Smith Wolcott, the widow of Challenger astronaut Captain Mike Smith ’67, USN. ’67 President Commander Dave Church ’67, USN (Ret.), made the opening remarks. The invocation and benediction were performed by USNA Command Chaplain Captain Robert Johnson. ¨ Twenty members of the Class of 1967 were on hand to dedicate an 8-foot obelisk honoring the 174 alumni killed in Vietnam and the two in NASA’s space program. The dedication was held in Titusville, FL, at the Valiant Air Command Museum.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NUSNA
Class of ’26 SWOs Select Their Ships
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Midshipman Jackson Smits ’26 selected Paul Ignatius, a destroyer out of Rota, Spain, with the first choice of the U.S. Naval Academy’s Ship Selection Night in Alumni Hall on 5 February. Future Surface Warfare Officers were joined by companymates, staff, faculty, families and alumni who cheered them on as they made their selections. Naval Academy Superintendent Lieutenant General Michael Borgschulte ’91, USMC, along with former superintendents Vice Admiral Fred Kacher ’90, USN, and Vice Admiral Yvette Davids ’89, USN, joined the 240 members of the Class of 2026 on Ship Selection Night. ¨
PHOTO COURTESY OF LCDR DOUG MATTHEWS ’67, USN (RET.)
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMALINA ZAINOL—U.S. EMBASSY KUALA LUMPUR
Alumni Dedicate Vietnam Memorial
FEATURE
ARMY AID
ALUMNI RALLY TO SUPPORT COMPREHENSIVE By Jimmy DeButts NORTH TEXAS SALVATION ARMY PROJECT
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Like many of his fellow U.S. Naval Academy alumni, Reinemund recognizes shared values with one of the nation’s largest social service providers. The Salvation Army has a distinguished history of community service, particularly assisting military veterans. The Salvation Army of North Texas broke ground on a 21-acre campus to provide comprehensive assistance to the region’s homeless population in May 2025. The site will feature integrated, co-located services so clients can receive their care all in one place. It will include transitional and emergency shelter for veterans, with an onsite childcare facility, integrated medical, dental and behavioral health clinics and job training opportunities in the culinary arts and operations management. Reinemund, a former chairman of The Salvation Army’s national advisory board, gravitated toward this monumental effort because he appreciates the organization’s values-driven mission. “One of the attractive aspects of The Salvation Army is that for those of us who’ve served, we can feel comfortable knowing we’re involved with likeminded people who have similar disciplines and commitments of service and servant leadership,” said Reinemund, a 2018 USNA Distinguished Graduate honoree. “Just getting to know The Salvation Army personnel and the way they discipline themselves, there’s a lot of commonality between that and what we’ve become accustomed to in our military experience.”
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RENDERING COURTESY OF THE SALVATION ARMY OF NORTH TEXAS
he Salvation Army’s emphasis on service was like a beacon for Steve Reinemund ’70.
Naval Academy alumni are adding their passion for service to support the largest project in The Salvation Army’s 150-year history. In August 2027, The Salvation Army plans to open the $183.9 million Dallas Social Services Campus, which will have the capacity to house more than 100 veterans per night in transitional shelter. The National Alliance to End Homelessness reports an 18.2% spike in homelessness in Texas between 2015 and 2024. Nationally, there were 771,480 homeless people in 2024, an 18% increase from 2023. About 5% of the nation’s adult homeless population are veterans. Along with Reinemund, several other alumni are supporting and advocating for The Salvation Army’s ambitious North Texas project. Among them are U.S. Naval Academy Distinguished Graduates Ron Nicol ’75, Admiral Pat Walsh ’77, USN (Ret.), and Captain Chris Cassidy ’93, USN (Ret.). Darryl Smith ’88 is an advisory board member. They attended The Salvation Army of North Texas’ annual Doing the Most Good Veterans Day luncheon in November 2025.
The Salvation Army of North Texas is developing a 21-acre campus to provide comprehensive assistance to the region’s homeless population. The site, which is the largest project in The Salvation Army’s history, will feature transitional and emergency shelter for veterans, an onsite childcare facility, integrated medical, dental and behavioral health clinics and job training opportunities.
CRITICAL COMMUNITY COOPERATION The Salvation Army’s North Texas command is the largest in the country. It provides a range of services within 4,000 square miles and feeds 10,000 people through its 12 food pantries each week. It also treats 500 people through its three recovery programs each week, and houses 1,300 people through its four shelters, two senior living centers and two in-shelter recovery centers each night. The escalating homeless population and demand for services is being addressed by the creation of the Dallas Social Services Campus. Christina Cavalier, managing director of The Salvation Army’s North Texas Area Command, said planning for the new site dates back more than a decade. A board member donated the land to build the all-encompassing campus, and organizers crafted a plan to maximize time and space for their clients. Cavalier said The Salvation Army is modeling its new support services structure on the Carr P. Collins Social Services Center in Dallas, TX. The aim is to deliver a full range of services in one site. This allows for more efficient care, minimizes the risk of clients not receiving critical resources because of travel demands and saves time and money. “The campus model is really intentional,” Cavalier said. “The idea of having these colocated services on the campus is really meant to take down those barriers so we can mitigate their immediate crisis and help them on their path to self-sufficiency.” By delivering veteran services in one location, Cavalier said The Salvation Army can provide case management along with complementary care services. This leads to higher success rates than a piecemeal approach of accessing care in multiple locations, she said. The Salvation Army’s target outcomes for its veteran housing program are: • 65% of veterans will exit to permanent housing. • 60% of veterans will demonstrate increased self-sufficiency by obtaining or maintaining employment income or securing benefits while in the program. • 90% of veterans will remain stably housed six months after placement into permanent housing. The Salvation Army includes a network of national affiliates in large and small communities. Replicating the size of the North Texas project won’t be feasible for most affiliates but its leaders say there are opportunities to use that model on a smaller scale to provide the homeless people with more resources and chances for success. “That’s our goal,” Cavalier said. “We hope that people will see this and do it in other places. Everything in our
RENDERING COURTESY OF THE SALVATION ARMY OF NORTH TEXAS
Reinemund was the event’s keynote speaker. Nicol was impressed to see the Naval Academy alumni community rallying around such as noble cause. “When I showed up at that luncheon, it was like old home week for Navy,” said Nicol, a 2023 USNA Distinguished Graduate honoree.
design of the campus is based on our experience serving people experiencing homelessness, as well as what we’ve heard from people who are unsheltered that don’t want to come into a shelter. There’s a lot of this that can be used for other places.” Mark Schortman, chairman of The Salvation Army of North Texas, isn’t surprised Naval Academy alumni gravitate toward The Salvation Army. He sees parallels between military service and supporting The Salvation Army. “There is belief in The Salvation Army’s mission and creating the deeper community connections,” Schortman said. “You bring your heart and you try to help.”
The Salvation Army is constructing its largest homeless assistance project in the nation in North Texas. The site will feature integrated colocated services, including a wellness center, so clients can access care all in one place.
‘SERVICE DOESN’T END WHEN YOU TAKE OFF THE UNIFORM’ Smith, who commissioned into the Marine Corps, sees service as a lifelong commitment. His support of the North Texas project includes helping convince the Dallas City Council the donated site was the appropriate location to construct the new campus. He said shortly after joining The Salvation Army’s advisory board, COVID-19 hit followed by a crippling freeze in the area. He and his fellow advisory board members dove into the relief efforts. “It was a day-to-day, hour-by-hour effort to support the staff there as they MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 11
PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRYL SMITH ’88
FEATURE
Several Naval Academy alumni are supporting the construction of a comprehensive homeless assistance campus by The Salvation Army of North Texas. The organization’s annual Doing the Most Good Veterans Day luncheon in November 2025 included Naval Academy and West Point alumni. Pictured here are (from left to right): Steve Reinemund ’70; Jamey Cummings ’93; CAPT Chris Cassidy ’93, USN (Ret.); Ron Nicol ’75; Darryl Smith ’88; Larry Hughes ’86, USMA; ADM Pat Walsh ’77, USN (Ret.); and Jude Akpunku ’16.
went out and literally got people off the street who could have frozen to death or established protocols within the center to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Smith said. Gratitude was the byproduct of Smith’s Naval Academy education and his Marine Corps experience. He feels an obligation to continue service and help his fellow citizens. Knowing many veterans are homeless only magnifies the need to lend a hand, Smith said. “Service doesn’t end when you take off the uniform—you continue to serve in any capacity,” Smith said. “We’ve been blessed to serve with people from all walks of life. Many of the Marines who served with me may have been in a shelter at some point. “Most of all, our hearts are perfectly aligned with the mission of The Salvation Army and the requirements that they have in delivering on that mission.” Smith challenges Naval Academy alumni to assist Americans in need. “The Naval Academy focuses on developing leaders to serve the nation,” Smith said. “Our leadership skills, relationships and love of country can make a huge impact on the lives of our less fortunate citizens. I invite you to continue to serve as a nonprofit volunteer.” Reinemund, a former PepsiCo CEO, said his connections to The Salvation Army date back to the 1980s when he lived in Wichita, KS. He served on the organization’s local board
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for four years before moving to Dallas, TX, where he joined the national board in 1992. A couple of years later, he became chairman of the national board of The Salvation Army, a position he held for three years. He was on the board for nine years. It was during his tenure that the Dallas Cowboys began partnering with the organization to kick off the National Red Kettle Campaign during the team’s traditional Thanksgiving football game. Volunteer service comes in a variety of ways, Reinemund said. He encourages alumni to be active in their communities. That can mean serving meals on Thanksgiving Day at a Salvation Army facility or ringing the bells around Christmas. “In The Salvation Army, contributions are necessary, but more importantly is getting personally involved,” said Reinemund, who is an emeritus U.S. Naval Academy Foundation board member. Nicol’s relationship with The Salvation Army traces back to his childhood. He said his grandfather and uncle received assistance from the philanthropic organization. He was introduced to The Salvation Army’s leadership by Reinemund and recognized a way to make a meaningful impact. Nicol said his world-class Naval Academy education was a blessing and he is inspired to assist The Salvation Army because of the critical services it provides. “I saw it in action as a young boy,” said Nicol, a U.S. Naval Academy Foundation board member. “I was always impressed with the organization. It’s imperative that I give back because I got such a wonderful experience and something that really enhanced and helped me in my entire career. It’s not an obligation. It’s a wonderful thing to be able to do this.” a
FEATURE
50 YEARS OF WOMEN AT USNA Editor’s Note: This year, to mark the 50th anniversary of women entering the U.S. Naval Academy, Shipmate will share alumnae stories from across the decades. This package includes alumnae from the 1990s and is the second in a series of stories that will be featured throughout 2026. To see more from this year-long project, visit https://new.express.adobe. com/webpage/d1MgwahENYZ8f. 14 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CDR JULIANE GALLINA ’92, USNR (RET.)
Then-MIDN Juliane Gallina ’92, center, was the first female brigade commander at the Naval Academy. She was raised by a single mother in New York. Her mother and grandmother attended her first parade as brigade commander.
MODEL OF STRENGTH RESILIENT GALLINA ’92 BLAZED OWN PATH AT THE ACADEMY, CIA By Commander Holly (Dobslaw) Johnson ’92, USN (Ret.)
C
ommander Juliane Gallina ’92, USNR (Ret.), was born into a family of strong women. Her grandmother immigrated to the U.S. from Germany as a young woman after World War I, and her mother raised Gallina and her siblings single-handedly after her father’s premature death when she was just 7 years old. “We had no weak women in our life,” Gallina said. “The idea of being female as a detriment never crossed our minds.” Gallina applied to the Naval Academy to be self-sufficient and to challenge herself, with her sights set on becoming a naval aviator and eventually an astronaut. Although aviation was not in her future, she would still seize opportunities that would have been unimaginable for her as a child in New York. Upon her arrival to Annapolis, Gallina refused to succumb to the stereotypes that threatened to define female midshipmen in those early years. Instead, she excelled academically and athletically, attaining Superintendent’s List and earning an athletic letter in women’s crew while honing her natural leadership skills as a coxswain— skills she later put to use when appointed as the first woman brigade commander. She recalls the pride she felt as she marched onto Worden Field. “I could feel the students marching and the drums were beating,” she said. “I made a turn onto the field and the entire parade field is open in front of you … an official was in front of me by himself on the field. And his guest of honor was my grandmother, seated near my mother. This was meaningful to me because both women represented such remarkable models of strength—it was a privilege to stand before them with the Brigade.” Gallina said her grandmother was the definition of an earlier generation’s version of a strong and resilient woman. She saw the disruption from advances of technology while growing up at the turn of the century in rural Germany, she survived World War I as a young woman and experienced the
second World War as a German immigrant in New York. She survived the Depression and lived through the Civil Rights Movement and the rise of feminism. Gallina said her mother “defined the model of honor, perseverance and resilience. It meant so much to stand before my mother and grandmother as a woman in the military— proudly wearing the uniform that had been worn by so many honorable people before me. I hoped to define a new model of strength and resilience for my generation.” As she approached commissioning, Gallina was thrown for a loop when she found she was not physically qualified for aviation, but a discussion with her roommate’s parents sparked an interest in national security. She selected Navy Cryptology, and after her first operational tour practicing Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), the Navy sent her to Naval Postgraduate School to specialize in space systems and national reconnaissance. She was detailed to the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and after completing her active Navy requirements, she stayed on at NRO. This time, she served as a CIA science and technology officer having earned a second master’s degree in electrical engineering from George Washington University.
Then-MIDN Juliane Gallina ’92 (right), with her roommate then-MIDN Cheryl (Herrick) Lauer ’92, during the first semester of their firstie year. Lauer is the founder of the USNA women’s lacrosse team, and both were plankowners on the inaugural team.
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FEATURE At the NRO, she discovered her passion for the development and exploitation of new technologies for the intelligence community. Gallina deferred her government retirement to join a small startup company, which was ultimately acquired by IBM in 2010. In two years, she experienced the excitement, innovation and adaptability of a startup environment and then found herself in one of the biggest and most legendary technology firms in the U.S. Gallina joined IBM on the cusp of the debut of its Watson AI technology, which went on to compete and win a televised “Jeopardy!” game against champions Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter in February 2011. Immediately after, IBM invited her to lead a team to adapt the winning technology for national security applications within the intelligence community. “It was a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the experience has inspired 15 years of exploration to see how to integrate AI into the intelligence domain,” Gallina said. She became vice president of IBM’s U.S. Federal key accounts in her final year at IBM, demonstrating just how far she’d come and her mastery of the federal marketplace. “IBM had amazing opportunities, wonderful people and jaw-dropping technology—but as I rose in the ranks, I missed the sense of urgency from being closer to the national security mission,” she said. BLEEDS BLUE AND GOLD When she returned to the CIA in 2019, her breadth of experience from the Navy and private sector, combined with her technical acumen, launched her on a trajectory to Langley’s C-suites: first as the agency’s chief information officer, and later a promotion to the deputy director for digital innovation. “It has been the privilege and honor of a lifetime to serve at the CIA alongside men and women who care deeply about the mission and serve with honor, but in silence,” she said. “My association with the CIA has been disclosed from the start, and this has allowed me to not only engage U.S. industry openly, but also to represent my agency to the world. “In doing so, I felt I represented the very best of the intelligence community—people who combine a sharp intellect with exquisite problem-solving skills and a remarkable tenacity. Together we accelerated the digital transformation of the agency with tremendous strides in global resiliency, AI, cloud computing, communications, data, cyber and open-source intelligence.” While serving at the CIA, Gallina would often tell colleagues she was CIA on the outside, “but if you cut me, I bleed blue and gold. The lessons I learned as a midshipman and junior officer were so formative and useful that I summoned them often.” Over the past few years, the entire purpose statement for her directorate was informed by her naval roots and understanding of military strategy.
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Then-ENS Juliane Gallina ’92, USN, served as a cryptologic officer helping conduct counter narcotic operations in 1993 aboard Long Beach. As the most senior ensign on the ship, she was named the “bull” ensign—a traditional but unofficial designation of seniority.
“I believe our directorate’s purpose is to seize and maintain competitive advantage against adversaries in the digital domain,” Gallina said. “This is definitely informed by my early lessons in naval strategy and military strategies that seek to assure global freedom of the seas and power projection. “I believe the CIA must be able to move and operate with impunity in any digital environment globally. I was fiercely focused on the development and deployment of technical capabilities that would enable CIA officers to do so—any time and at any location on the globe.” Gallina found connections and commonality throughout her wide range of experiences. “In every experience, I’ve been inspired by a mission much greater than myself, and I have found fellowship and motivation with colleagues who also appreciate our greater purpose,” Gallina said. “In every era of my 30-year career, I’ve been delighted to participate in cultural and operational transformation precipitated by technical innovation. I care deeply about using emerging technology to serve people and believe we must move with a sense of urgency. “In my tenure as the deputy director of the CIA for digital innovation, I strove to accelerate the digital transformation of my agency to maintain strategic advantage for our nation.” Gallina retired from government service in 2025 after 27 years of combined military and federal service. She has already begun a new chapter as partner at Lavrock Ventures, a small venture capital firm focused on dual-use technologies that will serve national security and commercial sectors. “There are two drivers for my choice to move to the investment community,” she said. “First, my recent tenure at the CIA underscored how U.S. technical innovation sharpens our nation’s strategic advantage. I am committed to helping create a vibrant community of startups thrive in a critical sector. “Second, I am at a phase in my life where I want to help less experienced business leaders as they navigate the complexities of national security, business and tech innovation. Throughout my career I was blessed to have great leaders show me the way. I hope I can extend the ladder of success to others and share the blessings I’ve enjoyed for over 35 years.” a
SET THE STANDARD WALZ ’92 FOUND HER PATH BY SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES AT THE NAVAL ACADEMY
PHOTOS COURTESY OF RADM KIMBERLY WALZ ’92, USN
By Commander Holly (Dobslaw) Johnson ’92, USN (Ret.)
R
ear Admiral Kimberly Walz ’92, USNR, is a jedi master of balance. She first learned to juggle a demanding workload of athletics, academics and professional development at the U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) and U.S. Naval Academy, and sustained a focus on work/life balance throughout her 34-year (and ongoing) naval career. A native of the Annapolis area, Walz grew up in Crownsville, MD, and attended Old Mill High School. Her father served in the U.S. Navy, on active duty and in the Naval Reserve. Growing up in the area, she knew the Naval Academy afforded her the opportunity to obtain a college degree and set her on a rewarding professional path. At NAPS, she fell in love with the professionalism and structure of the Navy, but her path at the Academy was not as straightforward. “Reality hits and nothing’s perfect; that’s life,” she said. At NAPS, Walz was trained by seasoned professional sailors; at the Naval Academy, “you’re trained by people who are just learning how to be leaders … That leadership laboratory is where we all get challenged, and rise to those challenges,” Walz said. She adapted to the new environment, rowing on the Navy women’s crew team, shouldering classroom demands and hunkering down professionally. She recalls her foundational experiences in 18th Company, infamous across the Brigade for its arduous environment. “Stress is infectious,” she said. “When one person starts to get stressed out about something, everybody else starts to get stressed out.” After a stressful plebe year came a summer training opportunity—midshipman cruise on Nashville (LPD 13). “I was hooked,” she said. “While the chiefs and the gunnies had me at NAPS, the Fleet had me at Youngster Cruise. Working in the division, I saw what our sailors would do on a daily basis, and how they were working as a team. “They would laugh and they would joke but they worked hard. It’s where I needed to be.” The professional opportunities of summer training carried her forward, through a change in major and a transition from the rowing team to the powerlifting team to help her manage the taxing academic load. Walz played for Navy’s women’s lacrosse team during its inaugural season in 1992.
“When I got low in the academic year,” Walz recalls, “I knew what was waiting for me is out there, what we experience in summer training.” When Walz graduated from the Academy in 1992, the Combat Exclusion Law was still in effect. “There were very few SWO billets, very few pilot and NFO billets … I had the opportunity to take one of those on a logistics ship,” she said. When the Combat Exclusion Law lifted in 1994, and women were detailed to combatant ships, she seized upon that opportunity as well. She opted to take an extra sea tour as a fire control officer and assistant combat systems officer on Stump (DD 968), deployed to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Northern Watch, where she attained her tactical action officer qualification. “If I was going to wear the surface warfare officer pin,” she said, “I wanted to make sure that somebody didn’t see that and look at it as something ‘less than’ earned.” In that early integrated environment, Walz recalls coaching her chiefs and leading petty officers. “People just want to be valued for what they can bring to the table,” Walz said. “Don’t treat anybody special. Set the standard, clearly communicate it and hold people accountable.” BALANCING ACT CONTINUES IN NAVY RESERVE After nearly five years at sea, Walz obtained her first shore duty assignment at Naval Surface Forces Atlantic, and welcomed her baby girl. While she was excited about these positive changes in her personal life, she didn’t see a way forward as a SWO. Reluctantly, she prepared her resignation. Her voice quivered as she explained her rationale to Vice Admiral Henry C. Giffen ’67, USN (Ret.). “Sir, I don’t want to leave, but I can’t see a way where I’ll be as good as I need to be for the Navy and I’ll be distracted,” she remembered. “He said, ‘Well, you don’t have to leave the whole Navy … there’s another way.’ And then he explained the Reserve and connected me to the Reserve. To this day, every time I see him, I say, ‘I’m here because you said this to me and you had the ability to help me find a way.’” Walz jumped at the opportunity to continue to serve in the Navy Reserve while starting a civilian career as a contractor supporting the Navy. She expertly balanced these competing demands while raising a family. Rising through the ranks, she mobilized to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, in 2015 as the deputy director of security force assistance for MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 17
FEATURE
Then-MIDN Kimberly Walz ’92 was a member of Navy’s women’s lacrosse team during its inaugural season.
Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa, where she had the opportunity to work with partner nations to combat terrorism at its roots, interrupting the cycle of violence. Returning to the United States, Walz continued her career progression in the Navy Reserve and as a Navy civilian with U.S. Fleet Forces. She held command of Navy Reserve Navy Warfare Development Command, Military Sealift Command Expeditionary Port Unit 105, Naval Surface Forces Atlantic Afloat Safety Culture Workshop Unit, Navy Reserve Commander Naval
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Forces Europe and Africa Operations Unit and Navy Reserve Littoral Combat Squadron ONE. In 2022, Walz was promoted to rear admiral and assigned as deputy commander of Naval Surface Force Atlantic, overseeing more than 2,000 U.S. Navy Reserve sailors. “I consider the Reserve a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ [story],” she said. “I have traveled the globe everywhere from Africa to Europe to Japan … There are ways to manage a career and family and still have a piece of the Navy.” One of Walz’s passions is the development of the workforce. In her civilian career as the deputy director of the Maritime Operations Center Training Team, she trains high-performing teams to execute fleet operations across the globe. “We need the whole team,” she said. “We need people with the right skills. We need to develop those skills and tap into those resources … Because as a leader, we have to know our people, and know where they can give a little more and when we shouldn’t push them past those breaking points.” Last year, Walz was activated as the deputy commander, Military Sealift Command, during which time she briefly fleeted up as the commander, Military Sealift Command, where she was responsible for delivering the lifeblood of logistics to combatant forces around the world. “There’s just so much that the Navy touches that we sometimes don’t realize the scope and scale, and Military Sealift Command is one of those places for sure,” she said. “I started my career on a combat logistics force ship and now I am looking at this toward the end. Things truly do come full circle.” Reflecting on her time at the Academy, she said it doesn’t have to be fun to be a great experience. “I learned a lot about myself,” Walz said. “I learned about life, and then I learned about the passion that has driven me for the last 33 years. If you take it with that perspective, then I think even the bad times … we can look at those of being shaping and forming in a way that we can all take something positive out of it.” Looking toward the future, Walz reminds current midshipmen and junior officers, including her niece, Delaney Walz ’20, that the fleet needs everyone. “The opportunities that exist now, they’re amazing, and I hope the people that are there are seizing every single one,” she said. “They will not regret them.” a
STRONGER TOGETHER A QUILT OF SERVICE AND LEGACY
PHOTOS COURTESY OF USNA WOMEN
By Captain Barbara Bell ’83, USN (Ret.)
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FEATURE
W
e are alumnae of the U.S. Naval Academy. More than 50 years ago, the image of a midshipman was defined by tradition and constrained by law. In 1976, that changed. We stepped through the gates of the Naval Academy—purposefully and with resolve—into uniforms, classrooms, training fields, ships, aircraft and eventually submarines and Marine Corps combat roles. We stepped into history, proving that leadership in the naval service knows no gender. Since that moment, we have carried forward a legacy that continues to shape the Academy, the Navy and the Marine Corps. This commemorative quilt honors the women who opened those gates and transformed what it means to serve. Each thread represents strength, sacrifice and perseverance— woven together into a living record of progress, service and honor.
Melissa Jolly ’04 and Becky Quinlan ’97 were among the U.S. Naval Academy alumnae who spent 18 months crafting a quilt to commemorate the 50th anniversary of women entering the Naval Academy.
WHY A QUILT To commemorate the 50 Years of Women at USNA celebration, we chose a quilt as a symbol of unity, patience, persistence and creativity—qualities women have brought to the Naval Academy from the beginning. When Linda “Postie” Postenrieder ’82, president of USNA Women, issued the call for quilters in spring 2024, alumnae responded as we always do: with commitment and collaboration. Over the next 18 months, this project became a shared mission. Monthly virtual meetings grew into biweekly working sessions as the design evolved through countless revisions. AI tools were initially used to explore concepts,
reflecting the Academy’s long embrace of emerging technology, but the final design arose through Jeanne Parker ’82’s visualization work using Inkscape. She created the full-scale 80" x 80" pattern—honoring the trailblazing Class of 1980—and divided it into wedges for construction. Mary Kay Wegner ’90 opened her quilt studio and contributed hand-dyed fabrics, many of which form the foundation of the quilt. Janette Sandberg ’96 undertook the intricate embroidered border, grounding the project in its celebratory purpose. Wedges were pieced by alumnae who had served in the communities represented, then traveled across the country for assembly, applique, finishing and long-arm quilting. Like our service careers, the quilt relied on teamwork, specialization and trust—creating something far greater than any single contribution. THE QUILT AS A WHOLE At its center is the Naval Academy Crest, anchoring the quilt in shared identity. Navy blue and gold dominate, joined by colors representing the diverse paths alumnae have taken: • Deep blues and greens at the bottom honor sea and undersea service. • Greens, amber and crimson on the left reflect Marine Corps ground combat and expanding operational roles. • Greens, amber and reds on the right represent General Unrestricted Line and Restricted Line communities. • Lighter blues deepening at the top symbolize aviation, aerospace and spaceflight. Radiating outward are wedges and concentric octagons marking pivotal changes in law and policy that expanded opportunity: • 1975: Public Law 94-106 authorizes women to attend service academies. • 1993: Combat exclusion policies are relaxed, opening combatant ships and aircraft. • 2010: Women are permitted to serve aboard submarines. • 2013: Ground combat exclusion is lifted, opening infantry, armor and special operations roles. In 1976, women entered the Academy in small numbers. Of the 81 women who began in the Class of 1980, 55 graduated. Attrition was higher in those early years, but we pressed forward, determined to keep the door open for those who followed. Our presence began to change the culture—first at the Academy, then across the naval service. SERVICE AND PROGRESS As alumnae entered the Fleet, the Navy adapted to the exceptional officers it had produced. Early opportunities expanded beyond administrative roles into surface warfare and aviation. During Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, women served in combat zones despite legal restrictions that prevented them from direct combat. That contradiction fueled advocacy and reform.
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Congress responded. In 1993, women entered combatant ships and aircraft. Alumnae went on to command ships, squadrons, air wings, expeditionary and carrier strike groups. Admiral Michelle Howard ’82, USN (Ret.), became the first woman flag officer and later vice chief of Naval Operations. Rear Admiral Peg Klein ’81, USN (Ret.), served as the first woman Commandant of Midshipmen. Vice Admiral Yvette Davids ’89, USN, became the first woman Superintendent of the Naval Academy. Vice Admiral Sarah Joyner ’89, USN, commanded both a squadron and a carrier air wing. Rear Admiral Amy Bauernschmidt ’94, USN, became the first woman to command a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. In 2010, women entered the submarine force. Lieutenant Commander Kayla Barron ’10, USN, served aboard Maine, later becoming the first woman submariner to fly in space. In 2013, ground combat roles opened, transforming opportunities in the Marine Corps. Lieutenant General Lori Reynolds ’86, USMC (Ret.), and Lieutenant General Roberta “Bobbi” Shea ’91, USMC, exemplify the leadership alumnae have brought to combat, logistics and cyber operations. By 2016, all military occupations were open to women. More than 238,000 positions—once closed—became accessible based on ability, not gender. COMMUNITIES REPRESENTED Each wedge reflects detailed research into platforms and equipment on which women have served. Sea and undersea wedges trace the journey from Yard Patrol craft and support ships to combatants, carriers and submarines. The Marine Corps wedge charts progression from jeeps and five-ton trucks to MRAPs, artillery, infantry weapons, amphibious vehicles and drones. The General Unrestricted Line and Restricted Line wedge honors alumnae who served in engineering, intelligence, medical, supply, civil engineering and information warfare communities, including leaders like Rear Admiral Kathy Gregory ’82, USN (Ret.), and Vice Admiral Jan Tighe ’84, USN (Ret.). At the top, aviation and aerospace wedges celebrate alumnae who flew support aircraft, helicopters, jets and ultimately combat aircraft. Several became astronauts, including Captain Wendy Lawrence ’81, USN (Ret.), Captain Kay Hire ’81, USN (Ret.), Captain Sunita Williams ’87, USN (Ret.), Colonel Nicole Mann ’99, USMC, and Barron—flying shuttle missions, serving aboard the International Space Station and shaping the future of spaceflight. BORDERS AND BINDING The quilt’s borders bind 50 years while opening the story to the future. One side traces midshipman ranks, culminating in the brigade commander—in 1991, Juliane Gallina ’92 became the first woman to hold the position. The opposite border charts commissioned officer ranks, from ensign and second lieutenant to flag and general officers. Additional borders display warfare insignia, qualification badges and command symbols, reflecting the breadth of service and expertise alumnae have earned.
CLOSING DEDICATION The Naval Academy’s mission is to develop leaders of character, prepared for the highest responsibilities of command, citizenship and government. Alumnae have fulfilled that mission in uniform and beyond—as officers, astronauts, educators, executives, public servants, artists, parents and community leaders. Their collective impact is profound. Alumnae have raised families, mentored future leaders, contributed to science and art, served in government and strengthened institutions across society. While individual achievements are remarkable, it is the enduring strength of this sisterhood—often unseen—that defines our legacy. This quilt is a labor of love, honoring all who came before and all who will follow. It represents decades of courage, perseverance and service, stitched together by women who answered the call to serve their country and redefine what leadership looks like. As Parker reflected, “All I ever wanted was the opportunity to follow my interests—to be judged by my abilities, not my gender.” This quilt is dedicated to the women of the Naval Academy—past, present and future—whose service continues to shape our nation and strengthen its defense. Yes, we are proud alumnae of the Naval Academy. Stronger together. a
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of women entering the U.S. Naval Academy, several alumnae crafted a quilt that featured the Academy crest, service communities and midshipmen and commissioned officer ranks. Mary Kay Wegner ’90 donated her hand dyed fabrics for the quilt. She is pinning the fabric to the life sized pattern provided by Jeanne Parker ’82.
A live auction for the quilt will be held at the 50 Years of Women USNA Gala on Friday, 17 April.
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FIVE MINUTES WITH…
DR. THOMAS PARHAM III ’85
Dr. Thomas Parham III ’85’s creativity was nurtured at the U.S. Naval Academy. He was an English major and participated in Drum and Bugle Corps, Glee Club, Masqueraders, Protestant Chapel Choir and The Log magazine, which he edited his first class year. Following his service as a surface warfare officer, Parham mined his creative talents as a TV show writer, entertainment book author and currently as a college professor. Last fall, Parham was awarded a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Grant. A professor of communication and media studies at Palm Beach Atlantic University, he conducted research on how streaming services and U.S. runaway production affect Canadian national identity at the University of Regina in Saskatchewan, Canada. Parham spent seven years on active duty before transitioning into the entertainment sector. In the mid-1990s, he worked in the licensing division of Paramount Pictures and also worked on more than 100 episodes of broadcast television during that decade. He wrote for the CBS drama “JAG,” Family Channel sitcom “Big Brother Jake” and served as on-location writers’ assistant for the third season of “Touched by an Angel.” His teaching experience includes Biola University and Azusa Pacific University, where he created graduate and undergraduate screenwriting degree programs and also served as founding chair for the department of cinematic arts. Parham recently shared some of his experiences with Shipmate. Shipmate: What attracted you to the Naval Academy? Parham: My late father, Captain T. David Parham Jr., was a career Navy chaplain and stationed at Naval Training Center in Bainbridge, MD, from 1972 to 1976, when the Naval Academy Prep School was located there. Many NAPSters I met back then—like future Admiral Samuel Locklear ’77, USN (Ret.), and Vice Admiral Derwood Curtis ’76, USN (Ret.)—went on to Annapolis. So, I knew from an early age that I wanted to “Go Navy!”
Shipmate: How did your time at the Academy and as a SWO influence your career in the entertainment industry? Parham: Before my second Persian Gulf deployment on Reeves in 1988, then-Captain Bill Center ’68, USN (Ret.), tasked me with creating a ship’s video library. I assembled a team of sailors to help me, and we left Yokosuka with more than 400 LaserDiscs and VHS tapes. When I PCS’ed from Reeves in January 1990, I had amassed a personal video library of more than 200 movies. Then, during my graduate school interview, I had a revelation that I needed to study screenwriting. In summary, I entered Regent University as a naval officer and left as a produced screenwriter with a doctorate in communication.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PALM BEACH ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY
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
Shipmate: What surprised you most about working in broadcast television? Parham: Working at a studio or on a television series is often similar to a regular office job. Then one day, you’re running lines with Priscilla Presley in her hotel room; or Patrick Stewart’s assistant calls and asks if you want to visit him in his trailer while “Star Trek IX” is in production; or Samuel L. Jackson whizzes by in a golf cart and you blurt out, “Hey, Sam,” to which he responds, “Hey, man!” Plus, when you work in television, the result is broadcast to the world. Shipmate: What is the focus of your Fulbright research? Parham: My Fulbright research examines how streaming services, such as Netflix and its competitors, along with U.S. runaway production, have influenced Canadian national identity. During his time as prime minister, Pierre Trudeau said, “Living next to you is in some ways like sleeping with an elephant. No matter how friendly and even-tempered is the beast, if I can call it that, one is affected by every twitch and grunt.” Since geographic borders cannot prevent broadcast signals, the Canadian government has a history of passing laws to prevent American culture from overshadowing its own. This issue has worsened with the rise of streaming services, COVID-19 and the overlapping Writers Guild and SAG-AFTRA strikes, which disrupted legacy media and accelerated the decline of broadcast and linear television. ®
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FEATURE
THE SATISFACTION OF BEING AN ENGAGED ALUMNI BEYDLER ’81 ENCOURAGES ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT WITH THE USNA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION & FOUNDATION
Reflecting on his 41 years as a Naval Officer, Lieutenant General Dave Beydler ’81, USMC (Ret.), felt an obligation to the institution that provided him so much.
ARCHIVE PHOTO
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call to a challenge, an education and lifelong opportunity led him to the U.S. Naval Academy. Following commissioning, he embarked on a 37-year-career as a United States Marine. His commands included the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing in Okinawa, Japan, II Marine Expeditionary Force and United States Marine Corps Forces Central Command. During his time as a naval aviator, he amassed more than 4,000 flight hours in tactical jet aircraft. In late 2019, Beydler was asked to join the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association’s Board of Trustees as vice chairman and as chair of the Board’s Joint Finance and Audit Committee. Beydler welcomed the challenge but needed to get up to speed on all the programs, opportunities and support mechanisms the USNA Alumni Association & Foundation provides for the Naval Academy, alumni, parents, friends and the Brigade of Midshipmen. Like many alumni, Beydler’s time in service was consumed by family and career and he fully appreciates how priorities shift throughout an alumni’s life. Engagement through the Alumni Association gave him a refreshed appreciation for the resources, facilities and opportunities midshipmen must have before they commission into the Fleet. Many of the resources delivered to ensure these future officers are ready to lead on Day 1 are made possible through the philanthropy of generous alumni. Ultimately, he found the same satisfaction and fulfillment serving as a volunteer leader
with the Alumni Association as he did during his time in uniform. “It was incredibly satisfying,” Beydler said of his Marine Corps career. “I would do it all over again and wouldn’t change a thing. During my time as the vice chair and the chair of the Joint Finance and Audit Committee, I felt the same level of satisfaction in giving back and supporting a most worthy cause, one that I benefitted from nearly 50 years ago.” Beydler’s six-year term as vice chair of the Board of Trustees closes this April. Major General Austin “Sparky” Renforth ’88, USMC (Ret.), will succeed Beydler as vice chair. Beydler was selected as a 2026 U.S. Naval Academy Distinguished Graduate honoree in December. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS The value of a Naval Academy education crystalized for Beydler when he saw the impact it had on his son, Second Lieutenant Robert Beydler ’15, USMC, and his son-in-law Kevin Hillery ’12. It also reminded him of the opportunities afforded him post-commissioning. He said he was compelled to help future generations of midshipmen. “I felt I owed something,” Beydler said. “I came to realize, as most people do, that I’m a product of this remarkable institution and my family is now a product of that same institution.” While many alumni might not have time or resources to spare for many years after graduation, Beydler encourages them to give back once the timing is right. He realizes
many alumni put Annapolis in the rearview mirror once they commission, but they often come to appreciate how the Academy shaped them and positioned them for great things. One way to help the next generation of midshipmen is to become more active in the Alumni Association & Foundation, Beydler said. There’s a variety of ways alumni can contribute. They can serve as volunteer leaders with classes, Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) or their local Alumni Association chapters. They can work with classmates in the Another Link in the Chain program, which connects midshipmen with their 50-year alumni counterparts. Alumni make meaningful contributions as Blue and Gold Officers by serving as ambassadors for the Academy. There are also opportunities with the Alumni Mentoring Program (AMP) for alumni to assist fellow alumni. Without engagement and support from alumni, the Naval Academy would not be ranked as high as it is academically, would not compete as well athletically while leading the nation with the most Division I sports or produce the quality leaders required of the fleet and the nation, Beydler said. It’s because of alumni philanthropy every club sport is available and Navy athletes have access to elite training facilities and coaches. The generosity of the alumni community is present throughout each midshipman’s journey from Hopper Hall to experiential leadership opportunities such as the National Outdoor Leadership School.
“The government will fund us adequately, but they’re not going to provide for some things that enable the Naval Academy to go from good to great. Experiential leadership opportunities are but one example of that,” Beydler said. The best advocates for embracing these opportunities are alumni on the personal level, classmate to classmate, company mate to company mate, Beydler said. Classmates play a significant role by sharing the impact alumni can make through volunteering or contributing to the Foundation. The objective, Beydler said, is delivering support services to alumni and ensuring the Brigade of Midshipmen have all the tools necessary to be effective leaders upon commissioning. “There is no greater satisfaction than contributing to the education and development of young midshipmen committed to better lead our nation in service and beyond,” Beydler said. “I enjoy every minute I spend in the Fluegel Alumni Center. I’m very satisfied with the contributions, and the investments that I’ve been afforded the opportunity to make. There is a need for personal outreach to share those opportunities. “The Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation has a great news story to share. It is well led, organized and governed. We need to convey that story more effectively. We need to invite more alumni in, under the tent, and we must make those invitations personal.” a
FEATURE
RENFORTH ’88 APPOINTED BOARD OF TRUSTEES VICE CHAIR
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. MARINE CORPS
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ajor General Austin E. “Sparky” Renforth ’88, USMC (Ret.), will serve as vice chairman of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustees beginning in May 2026. He brings an exemplary record of service, leadership and deep commitment to the Naval Academy community. The vice chair supports the Board chair in leading the trustees and sustaining governance excellence. Renforth replaces Lieutenant General David Beydler ’81, USMC (Ret.), whose term is expiring. Beydler was recently announced as a 2026 Distinguished Graduate, underscoring the caliber of leaders who serve in this position. Renforth’s three-year term with the Board of Trustees runs through the Spring of 2029. “I’m honored to join such an esteemed collection of leaders to support the Naval Academy, the Brigade of Midshipmen and the alumni community,” Renforth said. “I look forward to channeling my passion for the Academy to ensuring alumni are supported throughout their life’s journey.” Renforth said he is honored to replace his friend and mentor Beydler as vice chairman. “I am humbled to succeed him,” Renforth said. “My aim is to sustain the great work he’s done to assist the Academy and alumni and to maintain the level of leadership he’s provided to the Board.” Renforth’s distinguished 40-year military career began with his enlistment in the U.S. Navy in 1982. After earning an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, he commissioned as a Marine Corps second lieutenant in 1988. Renforth held command at every level, including rifle, heavy machine gun, dragon, and light armored infantry platoons; company commands at 1/2 and 2/6; deployment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit; battalion command of 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (two deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom); regimental command of 7th Marines (deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom); command of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island; and command of Joint Task Force Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. His staff tours included U.S. Central Command Protocol, operations billets at
2/6, 5th Marines and Regimental Combat Team-1 (Fallujah); Special Plans Branch (J-5), U.S. Northern Command; and chief of staff, 1st Marine Division. He also served as chief of staff, NORAD and USNORTHCOM; and as commanding general, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center and Marine Corps Air Ground Training Command. A former member of the Marine Corps rugby team, Renforth coached Navy sprint football (2000–02) and served as assistant coach for Navy men’s rugby. “Sparky Renforth embodies the leadership, character and service we strive to cultivate and emulate at USNA,” said Jeff Webb ’95, president and CEO, U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation. “His operational experience, mentorship of midshipmen and alumni and proven ability to lead at the highest levels make him exceptionally well-suited to help guide our Board. We are honored to welcome him as vice chair and look forward to his steady hand as we advance our mission alongside the Naval Academy.” The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Board of Trustees serves as the governing body for the Alumni Association, providing strategic direction and oversight of the business, assets, programs and services of the Association. The Board oversees the resources and programs to ensure the Association achieves its mission, and that its actions are in the best interest of the collective membership in accordance with the Association’s articles of incorporation and bylaws. Trustees collaborate with AA&F leadership and committees to shape initiatives, monitor performance and ensure alignment with institutional priorities. “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are honored to welcome Major General Austin Renforth as our vice chair,” said Admiral Mark Ferguson ’78, USN (Ret.), chair of the Board of Trustees. “His four decades of service and command at every level exemplify the leadership and dedication that inspire the Brigade of Midshipmen and energize our alumni, friends and family. We look forward to his steady hand and passion for the Naval Academy community, strengthening our mission of lifelong support and service.” a
FEATURE
A CENTENNIAL MILESTONE By family members of the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1926
I
n May, the sons, daughters and grandchildren of the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1926 will gather for one last time to present the Class of 1926 Award for Excellence in Ship Handling. This award was established 25 years ago by the Seamanship and Navigation department to recognize exceptional ship handling skill during summer YP cruise.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FAMILIES OF THE CLASS OF 1926
In the years since, each time the award was given, descendants of the Class of 1926 (aka “the juniors”), have been on hand to present the award to a deserving midshipman. The award was created in honor of the Class of 1926 and the world events that took place during their time of service. When the Class of 1926 entered the Navy, battleships still burned coal; by the time the last of them retired, Naval Academy graduates were preparing to go to the moon. In the years leading up to World War II, members of the Class of 1926 were in key leadership positions as commanding officers of destroyers, submarines and aircraft squadrons. One member, Elton W. Grenfell, commanded the first
The Class of 1926 in front of Bancroft Hall
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submarine to depart on war patrol from Pearl Harbor, HI, on 8 December 1941. They served at sea during the Atlantic Neutrality Patrol, the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Battle of Midway, in the Solomon Islands, Okinawa, Normandy, Salerno, Southern France, Tokyo Bay and many other sites in between. More than one-third of the Class of 1926 retired as flag officers, two were awarded the Medal of Honor and 44 the Navy Cross. Many became household names in the Navy, including Gilmore, Henderson, Leslie, McClusky and Smedberg. Fourteen ships have carried the names of Class of 1926 graduates, and Stout, named in honor of Rear Admiral Herald Franklin Stout, still serves in the Fleet. Thirteen members of the Class of 1926 gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation during World War II. In 1986, the Class of 1926 gathered for its 60th reunion. As that event came to a close, it was agreed that no more reunions would be scheduled. However, several of the juniors did not want the close camaraderie to end, nor their
fathers’ legacies to fade. With much pride and more than a little justification, these juniors believed their fathers’ class was an exceptional one and they were determined to continue honoring their legacy in a meaningful way. Ultimately, the juniors decided to hold a 75th reunion for the Class of 1926. A key junior involved in conceiving the idea was Brigadier General Ward M. LeHardy. LeHardy graduated from West Point in 1956 and went on to serve for more than 32 years in the U.S. Army. His father, Commander Louis Marcel LeHardy, USN, Class of 1926, was killed in action aboard San Francisco during the Battle of Guadalcanal in November 1942. Following this tragic event, Ward LeHardy, a young boy at the time, his mother, Sara, and sister, Linda, were warmly cared for by the Class of 1926. This connection was deeply rooted in LeHardy and he was determined to continue honoring the legacy of the Class of 1926 as well as the service and sacrifice of his father. “I think this class is extremely unique,” said LeHardy, in the days following the 60th reunion, “and the kids of the class are closely bonded. Many of us have known and lived near each other all our lives.” World War II obviously put its mark on all the juniors. Judy Housley, daughter of Captain Clifford Corbin, USN, Class of 1926, said “We were daddy-less during the war.” Another junior, Penny Vahsen, daughter of Rear Admiral John Fradd, USN (Ret.), Class of 1926, said “I can remember only two weekends where I saw my father during the war ... just twice in four years.” Mary Gale Buchanan, daughter of Rear Admiral Charles Buchanan, USN (Ret.), Class of 1926, former Commandant of Midshipmen, remembered “my father was gone for almost four years … one day, my mother was crying. I asked her what was wrong, and she said ‘your father is coming home.’” LeHardy recalled “We were in Hawaii in early December 1941, and my father commanded a four-stack destroyer. He said he was taking the ship back to Mare Island, CA, and they were due to depart Pearl Harbor on 9 December. He told us to get back to California, and we took a passenger ship that left Hawaii on 5 December.” Two days later everything changed. “Our car was on the dock in Hawaii on 7 December, waiting to be shipped,” LeHardy said. “When we finally got it back in California, it had a couple bullet holes in it!” With these tight bonds in mind, the juniors began preparing for the 75th reunion of the Class of 1926. LeHardy worked with Shipmate to publish a series of requests for information on family and friends of the class. This resulted in many names and addresses LeHardy used to create a list of people tied to the Class of 1926. “There are now 971 names of people associated with the class” LeHardy said at the time. “We started with five names of people with emails, and the structure just grew and grew and grew. The names kept rolling in.” A 75th reunion committee was established and invitations were sent to join the effort. On 9 September 2001,
CDR Louis Marcel LeHardy, USN, Class of 1926, with his wife, Sara, daughter, Linda, and son, Ward, in Honolulu, HI, on 5 December 1941.
nearly 300 juniors, other family members and friends, gathered at the Naval Academy to honor the Class of 1926 and its achievements. Although nine members of the class were still alive, none but one widow of a member of the class attended. Following a memorial service, the class was honored at a dress parade at which the Honorable Robert B. Pirie Jr. ’55, former acting SECNAV, and son of Vice Admiral Robert B. Pirie, USN (Ret.), Class of 1926, was the senior reviewing officer. After the parade, the group gathered for a reception at the Naval Academy Club. The December 2001 Shipmate contains an article summarizing the reunion and the Commendation to the Class from the CEO of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation. After the 75th reunion, LeHardy began thinking of how to continue honoring the Class of 1926 beyond this final reunion. He reached out to the Naval Academy, and a plan was hatched to start an annual award in honor of the Class of 1926. Ultimately the Seamanship and Navigation MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 29
FEATURE Juniors, junior juniors, and even two junior junior juniors (great grandkids) of the Class of 1926 following the Class of 1926 Award in 2017.
department suggested an award be presented to honor ship handling excellence during summer YP cruise. This was the perfect fit, given the predominance of surface warfare as the Class of 1926 entered the fleet. In 2002, the Class of 1926 Award for Excellence in Ship Handling was established. Since that time, the award has remained a staple element of the SEANAV department’s annual award ceremony, held in late May during the lead up to graduation. With this award in place, each May witnessed a mini 1926 reunion at the Naval Academy, as juniors and junior juniors (grandkids of the Class of 1926) gathered to take part in the ceremony. This typically involved lunch at the Naval Academy Club followed by a leisurely stroll to the Robert Crowne Sailing Center where, if the weather permitted, the ceremony would take place on the upper deck overlooking the Severn River. For each ceremony, a junior or junior junior would give a short talk on the Class of 1926, and then the award would be presented to the deserving midshipman. The next element in this story occurred in 2022 as the Class of 1976 began their Another Link in the Chain (ALITC) events for the Class of 2026. Class President Captain Kevin Stone ’76, USNR (Ret.), and his ALITC staff graciously invited the ’26 juniors to participate in the program as the 100-year link. The Class of 1926 was represented at I-Day for the Class of 2026 Parents’ Weekend, and in 2024 at the Bonds of Gold ceremony, in which class rings and crests were donated to be included in the forging of the upcoming class’s rings. The Class of 2026 is not only linked with the Class of 1976, but now to the Class of 1926, thanks to the class ring donation from Commander 30 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Jim Moses ’69, USN (Ret.), son of Rear Admiral Charles W. Moses, USN (Ret.), Class of 1926, and the class crest from Adaline Cashore, daughter of Captain Joseph B. Stefanac, USN (Ret.), Class of 1926. The July-August 2024 issue of Shipmate included a short write-up on this Bonds of Gold ceremony. As the centennial anniversary of the graduation of the Class of 1926 approaches, the juniors and junior juniors decided to retire the Class of 1926 award. In May, the descendants of this great class will gather for a final time to celebrate and honor the service and sacrifice of the Class of 1926. It is with both joy and heavy hearts that we look toward this 100-year anniversary. As juniors and junior juniors (and more junior generations), we are so thankful for the service of this great class and the bonds that were built by these great men and their families. As the years have clicked by and we descendants continued to gather each May to present this award, we have formed and strengthened bonds with extended family members of the Class of 1926, and those bonds live on! Yet one more legacy of the great Class of 1926! One important footnote: We, the legacy of the great Naval Academy Class of 1926, all owe a debt of gratitude to Brigadier General Ward M. LeHardy ’56, USMA (shown on previous page with his father). In 2019, he was interred with full honors at the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery, where he shares a gravestone with his beloved wife, Judy, alongside markers for his father, mother and dear brother. This West Pointer was the driving force behind honoring the Class of 1926 over these many years and we are all very grateful for his efforts. a
“Your Goals, Our Expertise” www.raymondjames.com/ottersonadvisors/
BRAVO ZULU 1960s ’63: Ronald Terwilliger was recognized by the Urban Land Institute Southeast Florida/ Caribbean as its 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. The award recognizes a leader within the real estate community who has had a transformational impact on the region and the land use industry and whose body of professional and civic work exemplifies the mission and values of ULI—an enduring commitment to responsible development and building thriving, sustainable communities. ’68: Jeffrey M. Dumas led his Boulder Road Runners men’s 80+ team to two, first-place finishes in USA Track and Field (USATF) Cross Country National Championships held in December and January. During the January championships in Tallahassee, FL, Dumas (the team captain) was the first finishing runner on his Boulder team and for all registered men’s 80+ teams, with a time of 44:37. For the 8K’s equivalent distance of 5 miles, he averaged an 8:55 mile pace.
1980s
Gregory ’08 Relieves Foster ’06 as Commanding Officer of the USAAMDSRO
CDR Carleigh Gregory ’08, USN (right), relieved CDR Robert Foster ’07, USN (left), as commanding officer of the U.S. Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System Romania in December 2025.
program as its special teams coordinator. He previously served as the University of North Carolina’s special teams coordinator.
1990s ’92: RADM Brad Collins, USN, Navy Region Hawai’i commander, was promoted to the rank of rear admiral during a ceremony, aboard the battleship Missouri Memorial in December 2025. ’94: RADM Tony Rossi, USN, assumed command as program executive officer for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons from RADM Stephen Tedford, USN, during a ceremony in November 2025 at Naval Air Station Patuxent River.
’84: Fincantieri Marinette Marine appointed former U.S. ambassador to Norway and the 77th Secretary of the Navy, Kenneth J. Braithwaite, as chairman of its board of directors ’95: Eric Goralnick was appointed in December 2025. secretary of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans ’89: Mike Priefer joined the Services. Dr. Goralnick brings more University of Pittsburgh’s football than two decades of experience
Commander Carleigh Gregory ’08, USN, relieved Commander Robert Foster ’07, USN, as commanding officer of the U.S. Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System Romania (USAAMDSRO) at Naval Support Facility Deveselu in December 2025. Foster’s command included continuous ballistic missile defense coverage for Europe and NATO during the Israel–Iran 12-Day War and across two named operations. His next assignment is aboard the aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy. Gregory most recently served as C5I officer aboard Bataan, deploying with the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group Marine Expeditionary Unit in support of operations including Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea. ®
as an emergency physician, health system leader and nationally recognized expert in health care operations, military-civilian health care partnerships and care for service members, veterans and underserved communities. ’96: CDR Harrison Schramm, USN (Ret.), was recognized by the Military Operations Research Society (MORS) as a newly elected MORS fellow. This accolade recognizes his outstanding leadership, innovation and contributions to operations research in national security.
2000s ’01: CAPT Ryan Easterday, USN, took command of Naval Support Activity Monterey during a change of command ceremony in December 2025. ’02: Jason Chen won his city council election in Melrose, MA.
CAPT Sarah (Rice) Buckner, USN, assumed her new role as executive officer of the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in November 2025. ’06: Haley Carter joined the Washington Spirit as president of soccer operations in December 2025.
2010s ’16: Maj Codi Anne Mullen, USMC, assumed command of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a ceremony in January, at Camp Courtney.
Do you know someone who deserves a Bravo Zulu? Send to shipmate@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
32 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
U . S . N AVA L A C A D E M Y A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N & F O U N D AT I O N
THIS IS WHAT LEGACY LOOKS LIKE! 50 YEARS OF WOMEN AT USNA
This year, the U.S. Naval Academy celebrates 50 years of women at the Academy—five decades of leadership, service and excellence that have forever strengthened the Brigade of Midshipmen and the Fleet. What began as a bold step orward has become a lasting legacy, built by those who came before and sustained by those who choose to give back. You can be part of what comes next. By including the Naval Academy Foundation in your estate plans, or by naming the Foundation as a beneficiary of your IRA or Donor-Advised Fund, you ensure that opportunity, rigor and leadership endure for generations of midshipmen to come. Because legacy isn’t just something we honor. It’s something we build. To learn more about planned giving, please contact the Office of Planned Giving at 410-295-4186; plannedgiving@usna.com; or scan the QR code.
FEATURE
LIVING LEGACY OF
CAPTAIN KEN HAXTON ’94, USNR By Colonel J.P. McDonough ’94 III, USMC (Ret.)
O
PHOTOS COURTESY OF COL J.P. MCDONOUGH III ’94, USMC (RET.)
n a beautiful Friday afternoon in early September 2025, I had the honor and privilege of administering the oath of office to a young man commissioning as an ensign in the U.S. Navy. I was there alongside his mom, Leslie, in the crowd gathered at the graduation ceremony of Officer Candidate School Class 16-25.
Leslie Haxton and Col J.P. McDonough III ’94, USMC (Ret.), alongside ENS Will Haxton at his commissioning in Newport, RI.
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He had just completed a grueling 13-week program in Newport, RI, where he was tested morally, mentally and physically and met or exceeded all standards. I could not have been prouder as this future submarine officer began building his own Naval legacy. This young man was not my son, nor of any other familial relationship, but our connection runs deep. Will Haxton Jr. is the son of my U.S. Naval Academy roommate, Captain Ken Haxton ’94, USNR. Ken and I met on I-Day in July of 1990 at the Naval Academy and formed a friendship that lasted for the next 32 years. We lived together all four years and, like many roommates, were together for the highs and lows of Academy life. Ken was always the better angel and inspired me to be the best man I could be. I am not sure I always met his standards, but I tried. After graduation in May of 1994, Ken and I went our separate ways, Ken to the fleet as a surface warfare officer and I, to the Corps. We stayed connected throughout the years as we grew our families and even ran into each other randomly in T-Court one year, which held many memories for both of us, like beloved midnight pep rallies with our first Superintendent, Rear Virgial Hill ’61, USN (Ret.), in a laundry cart. Ken left active duty in 2001 but continued to serve as a Reservist, completing several full-time tours, including one on the staff at U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) in Tampa, FL. Once, we unexpectedly met on a secure VTC while I was on the Joint Staff in 2015. I can’t reveal the topic of our meeting, but it certainly was not what we expected to be talking about all those years earlier, lying in our racks in our non-air-conditioned rooms in Mother B during Plebe Summer in 1990. Fast forward to the fall of 2020, when I was offered the position of Commandant of Midshipmen at the Naval Academy. The first person I called was Ken. I needed to know that he thought I was worthy of the position and could “well and faithfully” fulfill the duties. Ken, as always, gave his full support. I then jokingly asked him to sign a nondisclosure
agreement covering the period from July 1990 to May 1994. In September of 2022, Ken had just finished his tour at CENTCOM J-3 and returned to his civilian job in Tampa, where he and Leslie had raised three amazing children, Will and his twin sisters, Peyton and Caroline. Tragically, Ken passed away the night Hurricane Ian hit on 27 September 2022. It was a shocking loss for all who knew and loved him. I had the honor of speaking at Ken’s memorial service at the chapel on MacDill Air Force Base, the same place my own parents lived before they died. It was a fitting remembrance of the amazing son, husband, father and friend that Ken truly was to all of us he touched. I can still hear Jimmy Buffett and Kenny Chesney playing at the reception after the ceremony. Major Jim Ayule, a member of the CENTCOM J-3 team and fellow Marine artilleryman whom I had previously served with, worked tirelessly to support the family throughout this challenging time. When I received a call from Jim asking me if I was available to come back down to MacDill in August of 2023, I was
Then-2ndLt J.P. McDonough III ’94, USMC, and thenENS Ken Haxton ’94, USN, on Commissioning Day, 25 May 1994.
excited to see how his former command was honoring Ken and his legacy. Ken spent more than seven years working in the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) J-3 (Operations) during separate periods starting in 2009. This organization is charged with overseeing the day-to-day operations of the tens of thousands of service members operating in the volatile Middle East. Col J.P. McDonough III ’94, USMC (Ret.), along with the Haxton family (Leslie, Caroline, Peyton, Betty and Will) at the presentation of the CAPT Ken Haxton Watchstander of the Year Award on 26 August 2023.
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 35
FEATURE Leslie and Will Haxton with Kim and Col J.P. McDonough III ’94, USMC (Ret.), at the Class of 1994 30 Year Reunion Memorial Service on 18 October 2024.
Throughout his time at CENTCOM, Ken became a true expert who was relied on by all for his knowledge and experience. When Ken died just after completing his last two years as the division chief, Current Operations Division, the CENTCOM leadership wanted to honor his legacy. They did so by creating the CAPT Kenneth Haxton Watchstander of the Year Award, given to both the best junior and senior watchstander each year. I was grateful to be present with Ken’s wife, mother and children at the presentation of the first awards given to two deserving service members. The plaque that is in the Joint Operations Center at CENTCOM reads in part: Captain Haxton was an inspiration to all those who had the privilege to work with him. He prided himself on his ability to balance his service to his nation with his unwavering commitment to his wife, Leslie, and three children. Over his long and distinguished career, he exercised exceptional leadership, professionalism and technical and tactical acumen. Captain Haxton could always be counted on to demonstrate poise and fortitude in the face of adversity, regardless of the situation. He exhibited all these traits throughout his career and specifically during his time at USCENTCOM. He always set the example through his actions, from leading the watch to caring for those under his command. He has made long and lasting positive impacts that will not be forgotten. Fair winds and following seas. THE LEGACY CONTINUES All three of the Haxton children went from Tampa to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida. When Will,
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the oldest, was looking for what comes next, he became interested in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program and reached out to get my thoughts. I was excited for the opportunities in front of him but also concerned as the daunting interview process stood between him and being a future submarine officer. A process first started by Admiral Hyman G. Rickover, Class of 1922, in 1949, every candidate, regardless of commissioning source, gets personally interviewed by the four-star admiral in charge of naval reactors. As the Commandant of Midshipmen, I became intimately familiar with the process and received frequent reports on the successes, and failures, of our candidates from the Academy as they went through the process. Not only did Will pass with flying colors, he was also accepted into the inaugural class of the Navy’s Deep-Sea Scholars Program. He will attend Naval Postgraduate School and earn his master’s degree before entering the nuke pipeline. I hope to get back to beautiful Monterey, CA, to visit him while he is there. Will Haxton is blazing his own path in the Navy, but he also carries on the legacy of his father, Ken. It was so exciting to see another William Kenneth Haxton in Navy choker whites. As I think about the impact Ken had on me and all those who loved him, I know his legacy will continue not only through Will as he begins his Navy career, but his entire family and all his friends who smile when they think about how he made a difference in their lives. Semper Fidelis Ken! a Col J.P. McDonough III ’94, USMC (Ret.), was a career artillery officer and the Naval Academy’s 89th Commandant. He currently serves as associate vice president and chief operating officer at Texas A&M DC and as executive director of the Bush School of Government & Public Service in Washington, DC!
FEATURE
PHOTO COURTESY OF BRITTANY AMERAU ’10
TIME CAPSULE
FERRARA ’65 CAPTURES MOMENTS IN TIME FOR MIDSHIPMEN
F
Brittany Amerau ‘10 and her children peruse the scrapbook provided to her by her father’s U.S. Naval Academy roommate, Phil Ferrara ’65. Ferrara has crafted scrapbooks using local news stories and literature about the Academy for several midshipmen.
PHOTO BY JOHN SCHOFIELD
or Phil Ferrara ’65, what began as a simple gesture for a family friend has grown into a heartfelt mission to preserve the experiences of U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen. Two decades ago, when Brittany Amerau ’10—the daughter of his Naval Academy roommate—entered the Academy as a plebe, Ferrara began collecting every newspaper article, pamphlet and program he could find that touched her class. He paid particular attention to the women’s lacrosse team since Amerau was an attacker for the midshipmen. Over her four years, Ferrara assembled a scrapbook filled with clippings from The Capital and other publications, chronicling not just Amerau’s milestones but the story of the Class of 2010 itself. Ferrara presented Amerau with the scrapbook upon her commissioning. “I thought it would be cool if anything and everything that touched that class would be saved,” Ferrara said. “When you have something like that 30, 40 or 50 years later, you’re a hero at the reunion because most of their classmates wouldn’t have it.” Sixteen years later, Amerau shows her children what was happening during her time in Annapolis. “What her memory doesn’t recall,” Ferrara said, “the book will fill in.” Ferrara has since expanded his efforts well beyond that first scrapbook. Thomas Buckley ’15, attended the same Boston high school as Ferrara, who created a similarly rich collection focused on Buckley’s time on the hockey team. He did the same for Bits Hoerner ’14, captain of the women’s soccer team. His approach is as generous as it is spontaneous. Ferrara keeps issues of Shipmate and stuffs them with local newspaper articles relevant to current midshipmen. Every few months, he hands a bundle to the first firstie he encounters, urging them to share the materials in Bancroft Hall—and to consider saving them for the future. Ferrara and his wife, Linda, a longtime educator and former school principal, make a point of building personal connections as well. They attend receptions at the Superintendent’s house to connect with the next generation of junior officers. “We search out the midshipmen,” he said. “It’s amazing how much intersection occurs and how much you have in common.” These relationships, he believes, will matter someday— perhaps long after the midshipmen graduate. “Someday sometime down the line, it will have an impact,” he said. a
Phil Ferrara ’65 presented women’s basketball player MIDN Maren Louridas ’26, with the November-December 2025 issue of Shipmate magazine. Ferrara clips local newspaper stories that have a Naval Academy focus and includes them in the most recent issue of Shipmate before delivering them to a first-class midshipman to document a part of their time in Annapolis. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 37
CLASS NEWS ’39
“But still when two or three shall meet, and old tales be retold...”
he had created. As you can see, my family has three generations of Academy grads and one working hard to carry on the tradition!
Life Membership: 17% 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: seynavy65@gmail.com 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! In the 2026 JAN-FEB ‘39 column we reported on a wonderful visit with Ingrid Beach (widow of Edward L. “Ned” Beach). Penny T shirt
My grandfather, Roger Ward Paine graduated from USNA in 1911 and my father with the Class of 1939.
future columns, as well as on Bill Anderson’s dad and mother, Caroline Anderson, and their close friendship with my parents, June and Jack Fidel. In June 2023, The Smithsonian Channel broadcast a documentary in their Air Warriors series about the venerable amphibious aircraft PBY Catalina and the many roles it served during WWII. Then LCDR Fernald (“Flip”) Anderson was CO of the decorated Black Cat Squadron VBP-33 in the South West Pacific area of operations- for which he received the Legion of Merit with Combat V. Bill Anderson was interviewed and appeared on the program, recounting the devastating effect of the Black Cat’s night glide bombing technique on enemy shipping. (Black Squadron photo is shown on following page.) We will give a full account on this in a future Anderson column, but for those of you who may be interested in seeing the program you can go to: https://www.smithsonianchannel.com/ episodes/91u3wg/air-warriors-pby-catalina -season-11-ep-2
“Flip” Anderson- cockpit of PBY Catalina Cockpit Ingrid Beach
At the end of that column (submitted November 2025) we said we looked forward to giving a full report of Ingrid’s 100th birthday celebration in the next Shipmate ’39 column. Alas, as this MAR-APR column was being submitted in January, the February 9th Grand event had not yet taken place! Never fear, we will give a full report on Ingrid’s celebration in the MAY-JUNE ’39 column. So, to fill this column, we looked back through our ’39 files and found a number of communications from ’39 Navy Juniors. We plan to devote future ’39 columns on many of these ’39 Classmates and their families. For now, we give you some highlights from the following ’39 Junior communications: Penny Moore wrote: M “My dad, Roger Ward Paine, Jr. is from the Class of ’39, and my grandson, Ryan Patrick Walsh, is currently at USNA, Class of 2026. He surprised me one Christmas with a t- shirt Donor participation numbers as of 3 February 2026.
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Roger Ward Paine ’11 and Roger Ward Paine, Jr. ‘39
My husband, Richard Warren Moore, is Class of 1967; and now Ryan- Class of 2026. All three graduates were career officers.” (Editor’s note: Chip Seymour ‘65 -son of Harry Augustus Seymour- and Lloyd Abbot ’65 -son of James Lloyd “Doc” Abbot, are also from three generations of Academy Grads. Col. William Anderson, USMC (Ret.) - son of Fernald Phillip “Flip” Anderson, -has written several times reporting not only on his dad, but other ’39 Classmates as well: Lincoln Marcy, recipient of the Navy Cross and the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, and Eugene Howard Simpson, who wrote about his experience in USS Ellet (DD-398), rescuing men from the water during the WWII Battle of Savo Island. We look forward to relating more on those two Classmates in
We have also heard from Jim Gehman on his father, Harold W. Gehman; Carol Mckechnie, daughter of Val Holzapfel; Jim Hysong, on his dad, Ken Hysong; and Greg Hindman, son of Stan Hindman has sent us some very interesting Life magazine cover photos of the 1939 Graduation. All will be featured in future ’39 columns We look forward to sharing these stories and photos with you and hopefully we will continue to hear from more ’39 Juniors with stories about their fathers and their families! “What about ’39!” Respectfully submitted, Barbara Fidel Adams ’39 Class Secretary
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39/51 CLASS NEWS Julia, Emily, Cindy and Andrew. Great grand nieces and nephews: Rhett, Archer, Asa and Eilan. Heron Point residents and staff as well as family attended a memorial service in Wesley Hall and later, a Celebration of Life. Chaplain Daron delivered a stirring message pointing out what a great inspiration Anne was in demonstrating the benefits of regular exercise …somehow he calculated that in the past year she had slowly shuffled with the use of a walker over 300 miles around the courtyard hallways that residents called the “Green Mile”. Inurnment will follow at a later date, at Lower Brandywine Cemetery, Centerville, DE. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in memory of Anne to Tatnall School, 1501 Barley Mill Road, Wilmington, DE 19807.
’51
Life Membership: 56% Donor Participation: 21.67%
’39: Black Cat Squadron
’42
Life Membership: 0% Donor Participation: 0% 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 Send News directly to Shipmate at: classnews@usna.com
Layton S. Allen, Jr. USNA ‘66 wished to share this recent and sad passing with all Class of 1942 families:
Anne Landon Allen, 101, of Chestertown, MD died at Heron Point CCRC on October 8, 2025, eight days short of her 102nd birthday. Anne was born in Norfolk, VA, on October 16, 1923, the daughter of George Kemlo Landon and Mary Taylor (Eggleston) Landon. Anne graduated from Tatnall School in Wilmington, DE with the class of 1941. She attended
Goldy-Beacom College in early 1942 and then worked at the DuPont Experimental Station laboratory until her wartime marriage to LTJG Layton Southerland Allen, USN in May 1943 at Trinity Episcopal Church. She followed him around to six different duty stations as he trained to become a Navy pilot and watched him pin on his “Wings” as the war ended and they transitioned to civilian life. She served several years on the Tatnall School board of trustees in the early 50’s and became the first president of the Tatnall Alumni Association. She became a member of the National Society of Colonial Dames in the state of Delaware in 1966. She was hired as a senior guide – specialist on the Winterthur Museum staff in 1970 after several years of part-time work. Her areas of expertise were Chinese Export Porcelain and Crewel embroidery. After retiring in 1992, she and Layton moved from Wilmington to Chestertown, MD. There she was an active member of the Colonial Dames Seventeenth Century, the Kent County Historical Society and a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Layton preceded Anne in death in 2008. She is survived by her children: Layton S. Allen, Jr (Alison) of Williamsburg, VA, Martha B. Salmonson (John – deceased) of Kaneohe, HI, and Richard L. Allen (Kim) of Newark, DE. Son George L. Allen (Lyn) of Elsmere, DE is deceased. Grandchildren: Elizabeth, Eric (Theresa), George and Andrew. Great grandchildren: Ian, Eric (Shahad), Landon, Marisol (Eduardo), Joaquin and Layton. She is also survived by one brother: Robert Bragg Landon (Gail – deceased), of Ponte Vedra, FL. Five nieces and nephews: Gigi, Anne (Mike), Mary (Bob), George (Patti), Bill; Grand nieces and nephews: Daniel (Ashley), Rachel (Robert), Van (Katie), Bill, George, Lizzie, Katy (Jake),
Lt Col Wallace G. Christner, USAF (Ret.) p: 703-780-8632; e: wallace.christner@aol.com Mr. David Ghysels p: 410-822-8623; e: davidghy@aol.com VADM Robert F. Dunn, USN (Ret.) p: 703-989-94241; e: robtdunn@aol.com Captain Robert E. Adler (Ret.) p: 804-200-1377; e: beadler51@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9398/feed
Note we have no President or Vice President listed. The incumbents died in office and the class has seen fit to not take any action for the foreseeable future. Should there be any objections to this course of action, please notify your Secretary, Bob Dunn. Next order of business is a request. Please check your copy of the Class Blue Book and see if your address is correct. If not, send the updated version to your correspondent (address above) and to Shipmate. We have tried to contact several of you only to get blowback. Please check. If you don’t have a copy of the Blue Book, several replacements are available. Just say the word. One of our more outstanding classmates, Bryan Compton (First CO of Nimitz, Navy Cross), is an example of a missing classmate. His address in the Blue Book is wrong and mail gets returned. We’d like to get him and all others who are missing back into the fold. Along that same line, if you have SITREPs or stories about what you may have been up to or experienced in your career, uniformed or civilian, likewise, send them to your correspondent. As for losses, we’ve had several over the past few months, both classmates and wives. For specifics, please check the Obituary pages of Shipmate and/or be sure to notify Shipmate and your correspondent. Such losses appear in periodic class Newsletters as well. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 39
51/52 CLASS NEWS Unfortunately, our numbers have dwindled to the point that we don’t get together much anymore. What used to be monthly gatherings in San Diego, in the Washington area and elsewhere have ceased. That makes it all the more important that you let your correspondent know how you’re doing. Finally, keep your chin up, your back straight and your stomach full (but not too full)! Captain Judy is watching!
’52
Life Membership: 65% Donor Participation: 00.00% Pres: Ann Hogge, daughter of Jim Nunneley 7308 Normandy Dr., Richmond, VA 23229-6712 c: 804-306-6252 e: hogge4@verizon.net Vice Pres: Vacancy Sec’y: Kip Young, daughter of Jack Young 1318 Kinloch Cir., Arnold, MD 21012 p: 240-205-2162; e: toughshoes52shipmate@gmail.com Treas: Vacancy myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9399/feed Website: www.toughshoes52.com
Greetings, Tough Shoes! Happy Spring! I continue to hear from a handful of classmates as well as more children and families of classmates. Let’s keep the Tough Shoes column strong. Keep sharing your notes, calls, texts, and stories with me at the Tough Shoes email address below. A developing idea from a classmate is still in the works. He proposed a very simple and informal get-together or reunion at the Naval Academy at the end of September 2026 for any members of the Class of ’52 who might wish to attend. Stay tuned as we learn more about the possibility of a date for this reunion at USNA. It would be a relaxed opportunity to reconnect, swap stories, and enjoy time together—perhaps over a casual lunch. I’d like to hear from classmates about potential interest and any practical considerations. If this idea appeals to you—or if you’d like to talk it through—please email Ann Hogge at ToughShoes52@gmail.com. Ann Nunneley Hogge (ToughShoes52.com) Catching Up with Larry Chambers ’52 – A Trailblazer, A Leader, A Hero
Sarah Jones-Chambers and Larry Chambers ’52 40 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda, FL writes the following about Rear Admiral Lawrence C. Chambers ’52: “He didn’t just serve his country - he broke barriers and made history at every turn during his distinguished 36-year military career.” HISTORIC FIRSTS SECOND African American to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy (1952). FIRST African American to command an attack squadron. FIRST African American to command an aircraft carrier. FIRST African American U.S. Naval Academy graduate to attain flag rank. AWARDS USNA Alumni Association - Distinguished Graduate Award, 2018 The Midway Museum - American Patriot Award, 2020 The Tuskegee Next - Lifetime Achievement Award, 2022 DEFINING MOMENT “As commanding officer of USS Midway during the evacuation of Saigon, Admiral Chambers’ exceptional leadership during this critical operation saved countless lives and has been featured in documentaries and publications worldwide. His legacy extends far beyond the military - continuing his distinguished career in corporate leadership and international operations, Admiral Chambers paved the way for generations to follow.” It is not a surprise that this extraordinary classmate and leader would receive the Military Heritage Museum’s Wall of Warrior Award at the 3rd Annual Patriots Gala in February. Congratulations RADM Chambers! More on Larry’s recognition at the Gala to follow in the next Shipmate issue. In a recent email exchange with Larry, he shared reflections on his life, career, and continued service. He and his wife, Sarah Jones-Chambers, currently reside at Freedom Plaza, a retirement community in Sun City Center, FL, where they have lived for the past 15 years and long remained active in community leadership. Looking ahead, Larry says 2026 will bring a deliberate shift toward a slower pace and a simpler lifestyle. Larry described his Naval career like this: “I was a Naval Aviator.” In greater detail Larry adds: “After graduation, my first assignment was USS Columbus CA-74. Qualified OOD Underway (Formation Steaming) before going to Pensacola for flight training in March 1953. I received my wings in July 1954. First aviation assignment was VS-33. Reported just in time to make my first cruise to WestPac flying the AF Guardian on board USS Princeton CV-37. Second cruise to WESPAC flying the Douglas A1Sky Raider on board Bonhomme Richard CV-31. Next assignment was PG School in Monterey with a third year at Stanford University.”
“Back to sea with VA 22 onboard Midway CV41, flying A-4 Sky Hawks. I made my fifth deployment in A-4’s aboard USS Kearsarge CVS-33. Next cruise was ship’s company on board USS Ranger CV61 followed by tour in NAVAIR as program manager for the A-7E, (the Navy’s first, all digital aircraft procurement program). Next assignment was CO of USS White Plains (AFS 4) forwarded deployed to Sasebo, Japan. Assumed command of USS Midway CV41 homeport Yokosuka, Japan. Upon completion of tour onboard Midway was promoted to flag rank and assigned to BUPERS. After BUPERS assumed duties as COMCAR Group 3 and later COMCAR Group 4 while serving as vice commander of Naval Air Systems Command.” Larry retired from the Navy in March 1984 and went to work for a Beltway Bandit. After 10 years he retired again. Then a Swedish Conglomerate hired him to go to foreign lands, manage projects and pursue business deals. Larry retired for the third and final time in 2002. Today, Larry says: “I enjoy speaking to people about my years in the Navy and reaching out to young people to encourage them to find ways to love and serve this country.” Simply put, “much was given to me. Now it’s my turn to give back.” What Larry is most proud of, however, occurred decades after his retirement: standing on the flight deck of Midway Museum during the 50th anniversary of Operation Frequent Wind, surrounded by thousands of Vietnamese Americans whose lives—and families—exist because of that extraordinary evacuation from Saigon. For RADM Chambers, the moment was overwhelming not as a personal tribute, but as a testament to the courage and compassion of his ship and her crew, whose actions saved lives and shaped generations yet unborn. It remains the thing he is most proud of and an experience that truly exemplifies the Class of ’52 motto, “Tough Shoes to Fill.” Rosemary and Walt Locke ’52: Family Connections from Japan Family visitors from Japan were hosted by Rosemary and Walt Locke ‘52 recently at a bon voyage, cherry blossom-themed tea for the amusement of the Locke’s great-granddaughter, Mina Yaguchi. Songs were sung around the table, the favorite being, The Wheels on the Bus go Round and Round. Mina’s joyful responses to it were filmed to relive the happy visit. Rosemary remarked, “At 25 months Mina is remarkably bright and sophisticated. She is now beginning to talk in sentences mixing both English and Japanese.” She also added, “My only regret is that none of the photos show Taka (Mina’s father). He is a wonderful grandson by marriage and his almost daily Facebook postings of Mina and their family activities makes us feel part of their lives.”
52/53 CLASS NEWS The Yaguchi family travels extensively throughout Japan, posting pictures and videos of their exciting adventures to share with family and friends. Rosemary and Walt follow their exploits daily via Facebook.
’52: Jeff and Suzie Sterrett (son-in-law and daughter of Garnet Bailey ’52) with Scott Laux (son of Bill Laux ’52) along with the rest of the Blue Angels team. Scott is standing next to Suzie.
Left to right, 1st row: granddaughter Megan Locke Yaguchi and her 2-year-old daughter Mina. 2nd row: Walt and Rosemary Locke. 3rd row: W. Michael Locke Jr. (grandfather of Mina); granddaughter Delilah Glass Locke (daughter of Thomas T. Locke and a senior at Kenyon College); and daughter Maryalice Locke. Not shown: Taka Yaguchi, photographer and father of Mina.
George Heffernan ’52 sends his best from Budapest! My daughter, son, daughter-in-law and I started out on a river cruise in November 2025, from Budapest to Amsterdam. We started the trip sailing up the Danube and then down the Rhine to Amsterdam. It was great fun trading many stories with two passengers that we met - one a West Pointer (’67) and one from USNA (’65) who were onboard also. What a ride!
Tough Shoes Connections Run Deep! It was a special reunion for Suzie Sterrett, daughter of Garnett Bailey ‘52 and Maj Scott Laux, USMC, ‘12, son of Bill Laux ‘52. Not only were their fathers classmates, but Suzie was Scott’s first-grade teacher in Fairfax, VA. What a thrill it was to see her former student, Scott, as Blue Angel #7, narrating the flight demonstration. After the show, Suzie and her husband, Jeff, had their picture taken with the Blue Angels. Major Scott Laux is standing next to her. In the 2026 season, Scott’s position changed. He is now #6, the opposing solo. And in 2027, he will be #5, the lead solo. Scott also shared another amazing Tough Shoes connection. He is married to Elizabeth (Lisa) Laux ’12 and she is the granddaughter of George Severs ’52. Wreaths Across America Several of Jim Nunneley’s ’52 family participated in the Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony at the USNA Cemetery in December. The event is a meaningful way to honor those laid to rest there.
Jack Young ’52 with his children, Kip, John, Chad and Lizz.
We continue to receive word of the passing of classmates, wives, and widows. Read more details at www.toughshoes52.com. Received recently: Paul Noell, November 13, 2025 Consulelo Ducote Lykes, widow of William F.G. Lykes, June 30, 2025 Captain Robert Earl Jacob, January 15, 2026. Still Tough Shoes to Fill!
’53
Life Membership: 62% Donor Participation: 00.00% Pres: Vacancy Exec Vice Pres: Vacancy Cor Sec’y: Mike Gilmore 5324 Lucas Farm Ln., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 p: 984-364-0629 e: mdgilmorevt79@gmail.com Treas: Darrell Dempster myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9400/feed Website: www.usna53.com
Left to right: grandson Will Hamilton, son-in-law David Hogge, daughters Ann Hogge (Class of ’52 President) and Kathy Bagden, son-in-law Alan Bagden. The Heffernans visit Budapest, shown in front of the János Marschalkó Lions on the Széchenyi Chain Bridge between Buda and Pest. Left to right: Natalie, Duke NROTC ’81, George Heffernan ‘52, Catherine and Jim Heffernan ’81.
News of Recent Passings. From the Alumni Association: Bradley Sutter (2 May 2024), Kenneth Stafford (2 Jan 2025), Walter (Bob) Masser (2 Nov 25), James Gordon Douglass (17 Nov 25), Robert Chewning (2 Dec 2025) and Joseph Malone (19 Dec 2025). We miss them all. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 41
53/56 CLASS NEWS This past November I received an email from Run to Honor, a USNA Alumni Association shared interest group, looking for any information that could connect Run to Honor to the families of ’53 graduates lost in operational accidents or killed in action. There were 55 men from the class of ’53 listed. One of them is John E. Florence Jr. The following is from the May 1969 issue of Shipmate. “Born in Manila, Philippine Islands, Cdr. Florance attended Severn School in Severna Park, Md., and was graduated from the Naval Academy in 1953. A year later he entered flight training and was designated a naval aviator in Oct. 1955. Following his first aviation assignment with VF-81 at NAS Oceana, he served with various fighter squadrons. While executive officer of VF-102 deployed to Southeast Asia aboard USS America, he completed 11 combat missions against North Vietnam. I remember my dad, Art Gilmore, talking about John. John and my dad were roommates at the Severn School in 1949 just year prior to entering the Academy. In January 1969 John was lost in an aircraft training accident while flying out of Oceania Naval Air Station. I remember my dad getting the bad news and calling his wife. Years later, in 1976 I was living in an off campus apartment while attending Virginia Tech. On the door of the adjacent apartment were the names of the 3 guys living there; one of the names was John Florence and I wondered if he could be related. I asked him if his dad was a Navy pilot. He answered “yes” and I told him why I asked. He was indeed the son of my dad’s former Severn School roommate. I called my dad that night and passed on the story. The next time my parents visited my dad spent the better part of an afternoon talking with John III about his dad. I think it was a good afternoon for both of them. (John III, or anyone that knows him, please email me.) In other news I talked with Joanna Matheson, daughter of Gene Matheson, at Ginny Hukill’s memorial service at Arlington this past summer. Always fun to talk with ’53 “kids”. Also talked with Tom Ostronic, son of Frank Ostronic, at length at my sister’s Christmas party. Looking forward to seeing more kids this year.
CLASS SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES Send to: classnews@usna.com
2026 Shipmate
ISSUE:
DUE DATE:
July-August ’26
27 May ’26
September-October ’26
29 Jul ’26
November-December ’26
23 Sept ’26
42 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
’55
Life Membership: 60% Donor Participation: 00.00% 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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9402/feed Website: http://1955.usnaclasses.com/
As no deaths have been reported for this issue, Fred Schoenberger (11) has provided an input to prevent the class report from disappearing from lack of content. M Nora and I are in reasonably good health considering our ages (92 & 86. Our winter condo (Nov/Apr) is in Stuart, FL along the Atlantic coast north of Palm Beach. My hobby is building half hull models mounted on cedar shakes. Suitable for hanging on walls. My favorites are based on lobster boats from Maine. My latest is shown below.
receive it, is subscribe, which is easy and costs nothing. On your computer call up Shipmate Magazine, open the web site and scroll down to media and select Daily Shipmate, subscribe, and enter your email address. Congratulations! You have become a subscriber. Weekly, there is also a podcast from the Alumni association with the improbable name of ‘Sing Second’. It is all about life at the Academy and Alumni Association, such as interviews with our distinguished graduates, Academy officials, and coaches. You can access it through the Daily Shipmate or directly by calling it up on your computer. Back to the Daily Shipmate. Each day you will be updated on current life at the Academy and on matters affecting the Academy, and some sea service history. USNA events and the sports schedule are covered, as well as alumni matters and events. Try it. It is well done. Hal Moore (14) has provided us with a good travelogue of an available service for less mobile veterans to experience a one-day visit to Washington, DC to see war memorials honoring their service:
’56
Life Membership: 70% Donor Participation: 00.68% Class Co-Chairman Emmeritus: Col George Mushalko, USAF (Ret.) (15) p: 703-768-4543; e: gmushalko56@gmail.com Class Co-Chairman: CAPT Jim Van Metre, USN (Ret.) (4) p: 410-224-3860; e: jimvanm@aol.com Shipmate: CAPT Pete Fitzwilliam, USN (Ret.) (13) p: 703-501-6776; e: petefitzwm@aol.com Sec’y: CAPT Doug Hayman, USN (Ret.) (11) p: 410-268-0740; e: dfhayman@comcast.net Webmaster: Alex Morris (2) p: 941-378-5598; e: alex.morris@1956.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9403/feed Website: www.usna56.org “Deo Fidelis et Patria”
Happy Spring, Everybody! It’s good to see the warm sun every once in a while… Jim Van Metre has located a new service recently started by Shipmate Magazine: M “Daily Shipmate”. Our Alumni Association has come up with a terrific idea and has implemented it. Every weekday the Daily Shipmate is promulgated by email. All you need to do to
Hal Moore and his son Larry
’57
Life Membership: 70% Donor Participation: 00.79% Pres: VADM Daniel L. Cooper, USN (Ret.) e: dandbcoope@aol.com
A warm welcome.
M “On 8 November, my son Larry (serving as my Guardian Escort) and I went for the day to Washington, DC on a Space Coast Honor Flight along with 48 other veterans and their Guardian Escorts. Space Coast Honor Flight is a nonprofit organization that flies U.S. veterans who served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam and beyond, free of charge, to Washington, D.C. to visit the nation’s war memorials honoring their service and sacrifice. The Guardian Escorts provide companionship and push each vet in a wheelchair, assisting with mobility and logistic issues. As our chartered plane left the terminal, two firetrucks fired water cannons arching over the plane We visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the World War II Memorial, the Navy and Women’s Memorials, and the Vietnam and Korean War Veterans Memorials. Mail Call was held on the flight home and each vet was given a package of letters and cards from Florida Governor DeSantis, various congressional representatives, heads of local organizations, local area family members (including handwritten cards and letters by children). They thanked us for our service and sacrifice. I received 46 letters and cards. On arriving and entering the terminal, we were led in a parade by bagpipers and many flag bearers through a crowd of hundreds of people. The crowd was cheering, holding signs, shaking our hands and giving fist bumps. Mary was among the greeters, having been brought by some dear friends. It was a long, tiring, but uplifting and inspiring day. I highly encourage you all to attend an Honor Flight!” Thanks, Hal… You da Man! The following announcements are made about the recent passing of classmates and classmate wives. Full obituaries for classmates will be presented in the Last Call section of this or a future issue of Shipmate. Rear Admiral James Henry Flatley II USN, (Ret.) (5) passed away in his sleep on December 12, 2025, weeks before celebrating his 92nd birthday. Captain Michael R. Gluse, USN (Ret.) (16) passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, after a week-long vigil by loving family and friends. He was 94. Captain Lowell Perry Stone (17) USN (Ret.) (17) passed away 28 December 2025. No further information at this time (His daughter will be sending an obituary for Last Call).
Vice Pres: CAPT William H. Peerenboom, USN (Ret.) 1003 Rachel Ln. SW, Vienna, VA 221280 e: whp36@aol.com Sec’y: CAPT Peter B. Boyne, USN (Ret.) 8105Creekview Dr., Springfield, VA 22153 e: theboynes57@cox.net Corr Sec’y: CAPT Robert M. Wellborn Jr., USN (Ret.) 3141 Abruzzo Pl., Glen Allen, VA 23059 c: 407-590-8983; e: rwellborn3@gmail.com Treas: Col John D. Regenhardt, USAF (Ret.) Webmaster: CDR Charles R. Hall III, USN (Ret.) e: crhall@comcast.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9404/feed Website: http//1957.usnaclasses.com/
In memory of those of us and those we love who have passed on: David Webster Balding (20) passed away on 09/27/2025 in Leesburg, VA. He was born in McConnelsville, OH. His obituary was published in the November/December 2025 issue of Shipmate. Hadley Comstock Ford, Jr. (19). passed away in 2021, reported by Timothy Elizabeth Woodbury, USNA AA & F Memorial Affairs Manager, extracting with AI from the November 2021 annual report of the American Federation of Aging Research (AFAR). Additional effort by Bob Strange (19), Bill Peerenboom (03), including correspondence with his widow at the last known address and with AFAR staff, as well as the genealogy research skills of your scribe, has not yet brought forth any additional information. What the search by Bill Peerenboom, using AI (Copilot) has revealed, is worthy, as follows: Role: Hadley C. Ford, ScB, MBA, was Chair Emeritus of AFAR. Service: Joined AFAR’s board in 1990, became treasurer and executive committee member, then board chair in 1992. Legacy: Oversaw major growth in AFAR’s grant programs, later elected chair emeritus in 2003. Career: Retired senior VP and director at Booz, Allen & Hamilton; later senior advisor to Accenture. Education: Graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and Harvard Business School. Military: Served as a captain in the U.S. Marine Corps.” John Eugene Nolan (11) passed away on 11/16/2025 in Summerville, SC. He was born on 10/22/1931 in Mahanoy City, PA. Graveside funeral services with full military honors were held on 11/18/2025 at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, SC. His obituary is posted on the class website. *
56/57 CLASS NEWS Thomas Ransom Weissinger (15) passed away on 12/02/2025 in Annapolis, MD. He was born on 12/15/1934 in Cary, MS. Private services were held on 01/10/2026 in Annapolis, MD. An obituary is posted on the class website. * Warren Adolf “Chiz” Woodrow (11) passed away on 04/30/2025. He was born on 09/07/1933. His remains are in the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, Mims, FL. We have no further information. On a final note, Susan Lowrance, widow of Doug Lowrance (11), sent a nice email to the 11th Company Coordinator, Joe Koch (jwkoch@pacbell.net) with her family updates and many related email addresses. To maintain privacy of the living, the details are not published here, but please email Joe and ask to be updated. * Denotes timely information that is posted in reference info/deceased classmates/recent obituaries on the class website: http://1957. usnaclasses.com/. This reference is especially important for our wives’ obituaries, since these are not published in Last Call. If you are not familiar with the website’s navigation, use the “home” link to get started. Thank you. ** Obituary may be in Last Call of this issue FINISHING UP FROM LAST YEAR (2025) Our class column lags our real world events, not only because we all have slowed down, but because we publish only six times a year. Some information is timeless, particularly news about our beloved USNA and how, after all these years, we gather, participate, bond and contribute. This is heartwarming, particularly since most of us reading this, have or just about have, turned 90 going on 90+.
Dan (Class Pres.) Cooper.
Army Navy Game Gathering A hearty subset of Northern Virginia/ Maryland folks convened at the Fairfax Station, VA, home of Sylvia Hanvey, along with Jack Cook (11), where most of us managed to watch the entire game. Jack and Sylvia, along with others, provided a beautiful and wonderful buffet along with the elegant setting. Football in style. L to R: Dave and Diane Smith (02), Gary Antonides (02), Bob Wellborn (11), Betty Peerenboom, Sylvia Auton Hanvey, Jack Cook (11), Chris Brehany (13 - Class of 1979). Not shown: Lee Walker (02).
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 43
57/57 CLASS NEWS Chapter President George Philipps (17) and Muff Philipps, have taken on that responsibility and again conducted a most excellent party, along with the collection and distribution of our numerous gifts. The thank you note is posted herein. Please enjoy the collage of pictures provided by Ginger Poole.
Meanwhile, in a more robust show of support, Bill Peerenboom (03), with his son and grandson, WENT to the game. He reports as follows: M “I am probably the only classmate in attendance in Baltimore, seeing Navy pull off its great 17-16 victory over Army! My son, John ‘01, and my grandson, Tommy, were with me and we very much enjoyed parts of the game - first quarter early minutes and last quarter end! Most of the rest was pretty much dreary watching Navy keep Army out of the end zone - but allowing them to get close enough to score 2 field goals to keep the lead. Our 4th and 8/Goal touchdown was the icing on the cake! As our aviator friends say, “anything you can walk away from...” Tommy claims to be a good luck charm - he has been to 2 Army games and Navy won both.” And, here they are! Alas, as noted in the prior picture, poor Betty Peerenboom got left behind with the old folks in luxurious Fairfax Station.
Washington Chapter Christmas Party In keeping with the long-standing tradition of our Washington Chapter, the annual Christmas party was held at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, VA, on December 17. For many years, Pete Junghans (11), his wife Jane, who passed on in 2020, and Pete’s daughters, made this particular Christmas Party an extraordinary affair. Decorations, hand decorated Christmas balls, auctioned, gifts from all, for disadvantaged children in the DC area and many more things than just these.
The Perpetual Spring of Remembrance from Jim Paulk (06) No class column is complete unless we update the latest episodes from Jim Paulk, all deserving a BZ, He is the writer, author, publicist, earner of class endowment funds, etc. The class website (https://1957.usnaclasses.com/page12/styled-7/index.html) now contains pages of his contributions and achievements. This is a true testament of what we can accomplish at our not-so-quite-advanced age after all. Jim now is finishing Book 3 (How I Met My Wife) and is starting Book 4 (Close Calls). If you are not able to access our website, please have a family member or caregiver provide some help. Dear classmates, following Jim Paulk and getting reviews for Shaking up the World is important to all of us, and particularly to those who have contributed so much to our country, and to those of us who care about the class legacy. Contributing to 3 and 4 is just fun. The Living Example of Art Wright - Our “Keep Moving Man” Ok, now for the real, right now, everyday stuff! Art Wright (14) is setting an amazing example for us. Leadership for us in our 90s.
’57: 1st row: L to r; Dan Cooper with Cam and Betty Fraser, Peter (emeritus) and daughter Lida Junghans with Ginger Poole, Charlie (webmeister) Hall with Betty and Bill (VP) Peerenboom, and Eleanor and Pete (class sec’y) Boyne. 2nd row: L to r; Genie Fitzgerald and Don (class Treas.) Regenhardt, Duke Peacher and George (chapter pres.) and Muff Philipps, Bob (class scribe) Wellborn and daughter Brenda Grabein, Ann and Jerry (class everything) Smith. 3rd row: L to r; Jackie and Bill Alexander with Lida, Rosemary and Jim Hower, Dave Smith and Gary Antonides opposite Jan Antonides and Diane Smith, Peggy Gault and JoyForseman. 44 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
57/60 CLASS NEWS Art doesn’t brag, so Bill Peerenboom has to coax these things from him, as follows: M “Art Wright, Capt., USN (Ret), USNA Class of 1957, lettered in crew, wrestling and offshore sailing. Now 90, he relies on a walker for distance walking and continues to row . A long-time advocate for senior fitness, he encourages classmates to “Keep Moving.” He rows in Seattle three times a week and walks 5K twice a week.
For the past 23 years, he has managed a team of 80 to 90 year old master rowers at the annual World Rowing Masters Regatta, held each Fall. In September 2025, his 34 rowers from 12 countries dominated the senior brackets winning 42 gold medals in two, four and eight oared racing shells at Banyoles, Spain. In October, he raced in an eight-oared shell at the Head of the Charles Regatta. His efforts have set an inspiring example and have enhanced the quality of life for many.” Pictures tell it all.
’58
Life Membership: 59% Donor Participation: 00.33% Pres: Lt Col Gordon M. Gerson, USAF (Ret.) e: gordon.gerson@1958.usna.com Corr Sec’y: CDR Mark Poindexter ’85, USN (Ret.) e: mark.poindexter@1985.usna.com Son of VADM John Poindexter Webmaster: CAPT Fred Victor, USN (Ret.) e: avictor@erols.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9405/feed Website: www.usna.com/Classes/1958
WASHINGTON CHAPTER’S GATHERINGS DECEMBER 2025 ARMY NAVY GAME The group joined USMA ’58 on December 4th at the A-N Country Club in Arlington, VA
for our annual get together prior to the A-N football game. The highlight of each get together is a discussion of each of our football team’s capabilities. Bob Orlosky USNA ’64 joined us to discuss our team. His opening remarks clearly established his qualification to discuss Navy – he pointed out that he had won three N-Stars in football while at USNA!!! He went on to discuss Navy’s strengths and weaknesses, and concluded Navy should win even though Army has a particularly strong running game that Navy could have a tough time containing. The Army spokesman Brad Johnson USMA ’58 was captain of their undefeated 150 lbs football team. Later, on active duty as an O6, he was Army’s deputy athletic director. He gave an interesting assessment of the Army team, and concluded Navy would probably win. He also pointed out, quite correctly, that this was after all the Army-Navy game and anything could happen. Nineteen of us ’58ers were in attendance - Jack & Ann Adams; Dan Bellay and Lori Mansinne; Whitey & Lois Edwards; Linda Gamboa; Gordo & Jane Gerson; Mike & Eileen Giglio; Taylor & Lynn Keith; Jean Leber; Polski, Barbara; Pete & Julia Russell; Bev Smedberg; and Fred & Jackie Victor. We enjoyed cocktails followed by a good luncheon and great comradery. We ended up singing “Navy Blue and Gold” followed by the Army Alma Mater. The order of singing was certainly no harbinger of an Army victory, but merely recognition that Army hosted the luncheon. BEAT ARMY!! CLASS LUNCHEON Twenty-seven of us gathered at the Army-Navy Country Club on 17 December for our annual holiday get together. Attending were Jack and Ann Adams, Dan Bellay, Charlie Brooks, John and Jane Carty Whitey and Lois Edwards, Richard ad Barbara Fitzsimmons, Gordo and Jane Gerson, Mike and Eileen Giglio, Taylor and Lynn Keith, Bob Lanoue and his daughter Janie Dornan, Polly Mitchell, Barb Polski, Kay Powell, Pete and Julie Russell, Beverly Smedberg, and Fred and Jackie Victor. Many thanks to Whitey and Lois who once again provided the flowers for each table. Their carefully placed quarters under one coffee cup on each table designated the arrangement “take-home” person. After lunch Dan Belay, with his violin and Polly Mitchell on the piano led us in Christmas songs. Prior to sitting down for lunch, Jack Adams and Taylor Keith exchanged positions. Jack is now vice-president of the DC Chapter and Taylor is President. The photo shows Jack turning over the symbol of the presidency – a gavel. He pointed out that the turnover to Taylor was only the second time he had used it. The first was when he had received it from his predecessor Bruce Wilcox. Taylor promised
to take good care of it and use it no more often than Jack had! Jack had been the President for about 10 years. Thank you, Jack!
Jack, Taylor and The Gavel
CLOSING RANKS: (Obituaries that have been submitted to Alumni Assoc can be found at: https://www.usna.com/obituaries) LCDR David G. Burden, USN (Ret.) 19th Co. passed away on 6 December 2025 COL Paul C. McLellan, USAF (Ret.) 6th Co. passed away on 8 December 2025 CAPT Wesley May, USN (Ret.) 10th Co. passed away on 2 December 2025 CAPT Robert W. Musgrove, USN (Ret.) 5th Co. passed away on 11 December 2025 Class Widows: Mrs. Sylvia Ann Theresa Taft (Denis Taft, 12th Co.) passed away on 27 January 2025 Mrs. Annabelle Stovall Haney (John Haney, 16th Co.) passed away on 21 May 2025 Mrs. Dorothy Lee Britton (Edward Britton, 3rd Co.) passed away on 18 December 2025
’60
Life Membership: 74% Donor Participation: 00.91% Pres: CAPT Douglas M. Johnston Jr., USNR (Ret.) p: 202-203-8360; e: dmjj60@gmail.com Vice Pres: CAPT Bob Osmon, USN (Ret.) Treas: CAPT Geoege W. Dowell III, USN (Ret.) Sec’y: Bill Lewis 1300 S Hwy. A1A Unit 508, Jupiter, FL 33477 p: 804-334-6353; e: bilewis@comcast.net Webmaster: Richard Harper p: 805-583-1640; e: Richard.Harper@1960.USNA.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9407/feed Website: http://www.1960.usnaclasses.net
President’s Corner When I became aware of Warren Hahn’s (5) participation in a 5K run to honor fallen classmates, I asked if he could provide some additional detail. Below is his inspiring response. On a related note, for those of you who were unable to make our last reunion, a video of the memorial service can be found on our MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 45
60/60 CLASS NEWS class website at www.1960.usnaclasses.net. You’ll note from the subtitles that the AI didn’t perfectly capture all that was said, but it’s close enough for our purposes. As this input makes its way to Shipmate, we are basking in the glow of that thriller over Army and getting ready for another holiday season. Although the latter will be well behind us as this finally goes to press, may you enjoy countless blessings in the new year. Carpe Diem, Doug From Warren Hahn (5): M Doug, about 4 years ago the USNA Tampa Bay Chapter began our local Memorial Day Run to Honor 5K race. It takes place at Ballast Point Park, right on Tampa Bay, at one of the park pavilions, starting at 07:45 AM on the Saturday before Memorial Day. Minimal food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and water, to toast our fallen shipmates, is typically provided at the pavilion throughout the Run to Honor remembrance. Initially, we gather as a group (usually about 50 people), in a large circle, where everyone has an opportunity to speak briefly about their family, classmate, shipmate or friend to honor. Three years ago, the first year I “ran,” I spoke in honor of my 4-year academy roommate, Gary Gretter (5), who died in an aircraft accident. I remember the day before we graduated, Gary telling Rod Friedman (5) (my other roommate) and I about the “bonus” flight pay he was going to receive compared to a Marine (me) and Surface Warfare officer (Rod). I said to him “Gary, you aren’t going to receive any more pay than Rod and I, you are just going to receive it sooner!” To my horror, 7 years and 1 month later I learned of Gary’s aircraft accident shortly after take-off, at NAS Dallas, TX.” To this day, those words come back to haunt me. The following year my son Jeff ’88 and I “ran” for our three 5th company classmates, all who died in aircraft accidents: Tony Lanzetta, 1966; Gary Gretter, 1967; and Jon Surratt 1969. This year I “ran” for our 27, class of 1960, classmates who died while in service. Most of us “choked-up” when we memorialized our honorees. It wasn’t easy. After each person spoke about their honoree, Taps were rendered for the honorees, and then we Sang the Star-Spangled Banner. When we did this each year, the entire crowded park, in hearing distance, stood and joined us in honoring our fallen alumni. After this, the 5K began. It is run on the Tampa Bayshore Drive sidewalk, purported to be the longest contiguous sidewalk in the world. It is directly on the bay, with the hot May sun directly and the sun’s reflection from the water, shining down on top of you as you ran and shining up into your face, defeating the brim of your ballcap! Naturally, at the first race three years ago, as an overconfident, really old Marine, I kind of addled toward the front of the genuine 5K 46 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
runners. When the start was sounded, they took off. By the time I looked up, I had already lost sight of them. As my “run” began, my walk began. As I walked, first the 2010-20 alumni ran quickly by me. Then the 2000-2010 ran by me on the other side. Hmm, maybe I shouldn’t have been so far up front starting out. Then the 1990s alumni, maybe a little slower, but still running…. right by me. Finally, the 1970s and 80s folks, at least they were walking, but passing me by. At the 35-minute mark, I reached the turn-around point and started back. At least I wasn’t last, as about 5 minutes after the turn I saw two of our group coming towards me, heading for the turn-around point. Ha, I thought, not last! Then I saw, that the runner had on a knee brace, and was being helped by his partner. To my surprise, a golf cart came by and picked them up. The driver had the audacity to ask if I wanted a ride back. I just huffed, walking away, thanking him “no thanks.” Finally, upon my return to the pavilion, I was greeted to a round of applause, mainly because the others would not have to wait any further, as we all could then offer a hearty toast our fallen comrades. That probably was the most welcome mimosa toast I ever enjoyed! As it is said in scripture, “The first shall be last, and the last shall be first” At between 9:30 and 10 a.m. we close the Run to Honor, as always, with any USNA alumni event, by singing Navy Blue & Gold, and a bellowed BEAT ARMY. Run to Honor shirts can be ordered at: (You can add a fallen hero on the back of the shirt!) https://runtohonorgear.com/usna_run_ to_honor/shop/home —Warren From Bob Ianucci (16): M Hi Bill, Wick Parcells (12), Bob Osmon (17), Al Whitaker (16), Jack Greenhalgh (9), Al Ablowich (16), Henry von Kolnitz (22), Rod Friedmann (5) and I gathered at Bubba’s Crab and Seafood grill on Lynnhaven Bay on 11 Nov. for our last informal luncheon of the year. Our next gathering will be in a more formal dinner with our wives and special ladies at La Yacca restaurant in Williamsburg, hosted by Al Whitaker (16). The following photos are for your choosing: Al Whitaker (16) & Wick Parcells (12)
From Bob Osmon (17): M Dear Bill, it was a nail biter, but a few of us from ‘60 hung in there until the end and what a sweet ending it was!! Was proud of the way our guys fought back. Jack Greenhalgh put together a table for us and we led the room in cheers and victory celebrations. Now on to another victory at the end of a very successful season. Go Navy! Beat Cincinnati!! God bless, Oz From Bill Zierden (20): M Dallas Boggs (1), was recently committed to the Pacific Ocean by a fleet of his surfing friends and family. With 500 carrier landings followed by a long teaching career, he enjoyed almost daily surf kayaking, where he became Old Dude. A classmate and lifetime friend from HS. Bill From Bob Osmon (17): M Dear Bill, This month, the Hampton Roads gang was treated to a presentation by Jerry Fee (18). Jerry’s Dad was fully involved in the first testings of the A Bomb and Jerry was involved with the final testing. Amazing coincidence. He also related how many of our USNA grads were very instrumental in positions of high authority during this period. He also could relate many events in the life of Robert Oppenheimer not shown during the movie. In all he did a great job and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. Unfortunately, illnesses, hospital visits and old age prevented a better turn out. But as Jerry pointed out, “Whenever two or three should meet and old tales be retold....”. God bless and Happy New Year to you. Oz
Jerry Fee
Army Navy Cheering - Al and Inge Whittaker. In background from L-R: Don Schlicht, Jack Greenhalgh, Dick Hamon and Joy Hamon.
Tidewater group at Fee’s presentation
60/61 CLASS NEWS Addendum: The column goes to press in the middle of the “Dark Ages” so we’ll have to add in a few notes. We did beat Cincinnati quite handily in miserable weather. I’ve noted that a lot of the football players opt for the Marine Corps at graduation and the game conditions should be right up their alley in the future. As OZ noted, we also polished off those ground pounders from the “Hudson”, though it was a little tougher. Great season altogether. Also, this time of year reminds me of so many friends and classmates I’ve met and interacted with over the years. With that in mind I’ve included a shot of my favorite other former midshipman daughter, Andrea Lewis D’Ambra ’93 with Linda and me. Bill
’61 at McGarvey’s Annapolis
Linda & Bill Lewis with daughter Andrea ’93
’61
Life Membership: 74% Donor Participation: 27.05% 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
’61 ladies at Carrol’s Creek
The ladies met at Carrol’s Creek in a decidedly festive atmosphere. In the photo from left: Marguerite Welch, Joan Evans, Chris Umberger, Kathy Rosenberger, Donna Ralston-Latham, Barbara Bower, Gisela Cole
Website: www.1961.myUSNA.com
From Ned Kuhns:
Dear Classmates, The Annapolis-Northern Virginia December luncheon was at McGarvey’s as usual. Jerry Smith shared some highlights from the Council of Class Presidents: McDonough Hall renovation is behind schedule, Bancroft Hall renovation and the Columbarium sea wall are progressing, and Navy remains a leading power in Patriot League sports. We discussed the importance of the football team concentrating on the upcoming Army game. After the fact, I guess we could agree they concentrated, but just enough for a 17-16 win. In the photo from left Bill Ciesla (18), Bob Sherer (4), Rich Lamporte (15), Bob Glover (8), Prof. Doug Rau ‘74, Ike Cole (5), Mike Welch (5), Jay Bower (14), Dana French (17), Jerry Smith (8), Ron Carlberg (20), Richard B. Lamporte, (Rich’s son), Mike Pestorius (18)
M The Tidewater ’61 group December luncheon at Rib City served as a pep rally in
preparation for the Army game. Around the table from left to right are: Ken Craig (7), Mike Bradley (3), Tom McNicholas (9), Bob Graham (18), JP Decker (8), Jim Henderson (15), Fred Lowack (7), Buzz Needham (12) and Tom Markley (12). Two days later Tidewater ’61 classmates celebrated that exciting victory over Army at Bob and Peg Graham’s home in Virginia Beach for the 25th consecutive year. The Grahams have always been wonderful hosts and we really appreciate their kind hospitality. Seated left to right are: Carol Titcomb (guest), Jim Henderson (15), Ken Craig (7), Mike Bradley (3), Toni Henderson, Jay Decker (8), and Peg Graham. Standing left to right are: Sandy Craig, Bob Titcomb (‘68), Joe Kuhn (3-Honorary), Bonnie Campbell-Kuhn (3-Anchor), Sharon Joyner (1-Anchor), Buzz Needham (12), Jan Bradley, Judy Laster (15-Anchor) and Bob Graham (18). Attendance was a little less than in the past, but everyone had a wonderful time.
‘61 at Rib City, Virginia Beach MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 47
61/61 CLASS NEWS collections of weapons used by SEALS, the story of the 2009 rescue of Captain Philips of the Maersk Alabama, (remember the Tom Hanks movie?) and the hunting down of Osama Bin Laden. Uniforms, equipment and boats used by SEALS are included as well. A worthwhile project for an afternoon, it’s across the street from the trolley depot so you can avoid the parking hassle.
’61 Tidewater Army/Navy Watch
The San Diego crowd reports on their annual Army-Navy party held at the San Diego Yacht Club. Nobody left early. Seated left to right: Dick Rothwell (7), Ann Rothwell, Claire Boudov, Milt Boudov (13) and Jim Richardson (16). Standing left to right: Chuck St Laurent (21), Ralph Zimmerman (12), Mary Beth Fennick (Bob 7), Kathryn Willetts, Tom Bailey (16), Leo Willetts (5), Jack Allen (13), Alan Armstrong (USMA ’61), Lynne Armstrong, Bill Eldredge (13) and Molly Eldredge. Your correspondent visited San Diego to keep in touch with our Southwest component, among the most faithful in keeping us current on local doings. Each time I arrive there, I have to get used to the traffic reports on radio and TV referring to highways with “the”as in “There’s an accident on the 405”. Don Coullahan, whom I relieved as Gunnery Officer in Barry (DD-933), provided the local update as well as arranging lunch at Rockin’ Baja Lobster, an establishment we have seen featured before in these pages. In the photo below from
’61 at San Diego Yacht Club for Army game 48 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
left: Sherer (4), Coullahan (6) Two became three when, at the airport for my return, I was greeted by Bill Kraus’ daughter, Karen Kraus Breslauer who noticed my ’61 tote bag from some reunion. SEAL on mission
’61 at Rockin’ Baja Lobster
A tour of the Navy SEAL Museum followed the lunch. The Museum emphasizes history showing images from World War II when the Underwater Demolition Teams were created, then the actions in Korea. SEAL history as an organization started with their founding in January 1962. Popular displays are the two
The football team notched a satisfying final performance at the Liberty Bowl with a 35-13 victory over Big 12 opponent Cincinnati, a foe we remember from our early years in the American Athletic Conference. Navy, finishing the regular season at 11-2, and ranking number 23, ruled in all aspects of the game including penalties (only two for 10 yards), a weakness for much of the season. Viewers were given a special treat of a “pick six” by linebacker Coleman Cauley, who returned an interception for a score late in the game. Navy posted an 11-win season for only the third time, and a record 21 wins over two seasons. The team met the three annual season goals with vigor: a winning season, Commander-in-Chief Trophy, and victory over Army A note out of the past from Ned Kuhns: With our 65th Reunion quickly approaching, this photo goes back nearly 65 years when the 1961 Supply Corps officers were attending the Navy Supply Corps School (NSCS) in Athens, Georgia before being sent to support the warfighters in the fleet. I believe it might have been taken as we celebrated a Navy victory at the 1961 Army-Navy game party in the NSCS O’ Club. In the front row left to right are: Rusty Lamade (4), Jack Dell (22), Bruce Maxon (15), Pete Dana (24) and Harry Lara (9). In the second row are: Spike Gile (14), Wayne Bratschi (10), Raese Simpson (11),
61/62 CLASS NEWS team, Blake Horvath and Eli Heidenreich. (Photos below). Vic attended a football practice prior to the Army game as the senior member of the Football Brotherhood, sporting the jersey he wore in the 1961 win over Army 13-7. He also reminded me of that team’s win over Notre Dame 13-10 after a ferocious goal line stand in which he and Ron Bell combined to take down Daryl Lamonica inches from the goal on 4th down. Navy under Roger Staubach went on to beat Notre Dame two years later but didn’t do it again for 25 years.
’61 Supply Corps officers in Athens 1961
Dom Guerriero (13) and Bob McLaughlin (11). In the third row are: Len Yurkovic (9), Ned Kuhns (7), Sari Liebler (7), and Doug Falconer (21). In the third row are: Ron Ecklein (21), Jerry O’Donnell (7), Terry Waller (18), and Jim Hellauer (5). In the fifth row are: Bob Wingard (24), Randy Totten (18), Lew Bryan (1), Joe Matalavage (21), Walt Draper (15) and Gordy Prescott (16). In the back row are: Kevin Growney (24), two unidentified, Jack McQuade (20), Bob Fenick (20), two unidentified, Howard Wight (2) and Ray Mendez (16). Missing as far as I can determine (or unidentified) are: Tom Anderson (2), Todd Barnes (10), Henry Booth (21), John Foley (15), Joe Hansen (22), Randy Horhutz (24), Bill Moore (15), Jay Savage (17) and Ed Straw (7). Get it done with ’61
62: Grandpa needs a shave!
’62
Vic and Blake
Life Membership: 74% Donor Participation: 00.99% Pres: RADM William C. Miller, USN (Ret.) 200 Long Point Rd., Crownsville, MD 21032-1852 p: 410-703-0889; e: wcmiller15@verizon.net Sec’y: CAPT Paul D. Hurst, USN (Ret.) p: 678-575-3510; e: phurst62@att.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9409/feed
As I write this, Navy has just completed another Fantastic season in football retaining the Commander in Chief Trophy with an exciting win over Army, followed by winning the Liberty Bowl over Cincinnati. Once again —FEAR THE GOAT! One of the star players in our day was Vic Meyer, a running back and cornerback who sent me this interesting account of his meeting with the two of the star players of this year’s
Vic and Eli
Dick (Richard N) Lee sent me an interesting email he received from Don Cuollahan, Class of ’61. Dick and Don were shipmates on USS Patrick Henry (SSBN 599 Blue) in about 1966. As a Mid 3/c Don lived next door to three of our classmates and sent this account of one of their encounters in which his roommate (Jerry Chasko) is introducing the three plebes to the tradition of “kissing grandpa.” Here Don identifies the kissers: M “The plebe (class of 1962) on the left is George Wagner from Staten Island (NYC). George retired as a Rear Admiral, SWO and EDO. He helped bring the Tomahawk missile to life. His last command was SPAWARS in San Diego. George and Sarah lived near us in San Diego for many years until they moved to Henderson, Nevada to be near their daughter. In the center kissing grandpa is Tom Keenan from the New York City area. We have lost contact with Tom. He left the Navy after his initial tour and eventually retired as a Captain in the reserves. On the right is Roger Vinson from Alabama. Roger had spent a year at the University of Kentucky before joining us at the Naval Academy. Roger died last year. After he MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 49
62/63 CLASS NEWS graduated, Roger qualified as a Naval aviator and flew P-2s and P-3s. After about ten years, he left active duty and attended Vanderbilt Law School. Roger and I and our better halves frequently got together while he was in his last year of Vanderbilt Law School and I in my first year at Vanderbilt School of Medicine. Roger initially had a private practice of law but was appointed by President Reagan to a federal judgeship and eventually became the Chief Judge for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida. He also served on the FISA court. Ellen and Roger frequently visited George and Sarah and Judy and I would meet them for dinner or lunch. Roger was also president of the American Camellia Society.” Jerry Chasko claimed that “kissing grandpa” was a key factor why these Plebes did so well. I suppose now that would be considered hazing. George Wagner testifies to the authenticity of the story and adds the following related story. It also reminds us that in our relatively small Navy community we will continue to encounter those whom we “trained,” and those who HAZED us. “The Youngster holding grandpa’s beard was Jerry Chasko. As a follow-on, my graduation-day bride and I went on a cruise in the spring of 2024 as an early anniversary treat for ourselves. Early in the cruise, we were sitting at a table for two in the dining room for lunch and another couple was at an adjacent table. I noticed what appeared to be a miniature ring on her finger so asked if it was an Academy miniature. She said it was. So, I asked which Academy and she replied Naval Academy. So, I then asked what class and she replied 61. So, I asked, what company and the fellow replied 6th (my plebe year company). So, I asked his name and he said Chasco! I asked if he remembered harassing three plebes next door in his Youngster year! Of course, he denied any harassment! He did not look like the fellow in the photo 66 years later! We teamed up with him and his wife, Jeanne, for the rest of the cruise. Good cruise and good sea story swapping. Sorry he’s no longer with us.” Jack Hanley was shuffling through his old files and found this picture that should bring back mostly pleasant memories of our 1/c cruise. He and Neil Monney are on the flight deck of USS Forrestal. (Too bad there weren’t any women on board at that time to be impressed). Jack reports, “In July of 1961 prior to meeting the ship I flew by MATS to Spain then took a train to Nice and purchased a Vespa scooter for $60. I intended to travel north to climb Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest peak, but realized I couldn’t climb in my penny loafers so I took some walks around the foothills. I returned to Nice, sold my Vespa for $60 and ran into Neil on the beach. He and his roommate Denny McCahill had made a separate excursion of France and were headed toward Paris.” 50 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Jack & Neil, ready to launch
That’s it for this time. Please Stay in touch and send me your memories and stories, especially those fit to be printed. PD sends.
’63
Life Membership: 62% Donor Participation: 00.00% Pres: VADM William A. Earner, Jr., USN (Ret.) Sec’y: Michael H. Shelley 27 Cambridge Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 p: 828-506-2201; e: nstar@citcom.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9410/feed Website: www.USNA63.org
With sadness and respect, we note the loss of four classmates and a ’63 spouse. Jary W. Lewis died on 3 December. His widow, Sue, can be contacted at 8732 Bally Bunion Road, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986. Albert S. Wilson passed away on 11 December. Scotty’s widow, Patty, can be contacted at 38 Central Drive, Plandome, NY 11030. James J. Delong died on 14 December. His wife, Sue, can be contacted at 10950 Magdalena Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94024. Guillermo A. Devoto passed away on 21 December. We do not have contact information for his next of kin. A Foreign National member of our class, he became an Admiral in the Peruvian Navy. Jim Turner’s widow, Terry Lynn Turner, passed away on 14 December. We do not have contact information for her next of kin. Be sure to visit the “Last Call” section of our web site to read classmates’ obituaries and other information about their lives and careers. Spouses’ obituaries are posted with their husband’s Last Call or current biography entry.
’63: Survivors of the Terrible Tenth Company
I received two notes relating to our classmate Larry Marsh, who died on 31 October 2025. Jim Ring sent this account about Larry’s interment at the Naval Academy on 6 January: M The ceremony was very well attended. Members of our class included Steve Duncan, Jeff Miles, Mario Fiori, Joe Bustamante, Dan and Karen Koczur, and Lionel Banda and his family. We gathered by Alumni Hall and walked behind the hearse to the burial site on the other side of the cemetery overlooking the Severn and hospital point. A luncheon followed at the Naval Academy Club. Tom Robertson wrote a fine remembrance of Larry titled, “Our Golden Boy.” I found it very interesting and think you will also. It is posted on Larry’s current biography page on our web site. Thanks to Richard Kell for telling us of the Mini-reunion his companymates held in Texas last autumn. M From 21-28 October, members of the 8th Company (Terrible 10th Company survivors) held a get together in San Antonio, TX, celebrating our 21st Mini-reunion. The weather was perfect, and the location was ideal. We stayed at the historic downtown Gibbs Hotel just steps from the Alamo and the River Walk The hotel is a staunch supporter of people in the military and provided a complimentary meeting room for our group. We had a wonderful stay in San Antonio. We had a group ride on the Old Town Trolley for a tour that guides visitors through the city’s history and culture, stopping at notable and unique neighborhoods and places. The next day, the group went on a tour of the San Antonio Missions, which comprise five historic Spanish colonial missions that together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During free time many of the group walked across the street to visit the Alamo. On Friday evening, the group enjoyed an exceptional dinner in the Wine Cellar at Boudro’s Texas Bistro. We were surrounded by wine crates and barrels, wine tasting tables, and floor-to-ceiling wine racks stocked with more than 7,000 bottles. We enjoyed the time together and sharing old stories. The stories get better every year.
63/63 CLASS NEWS Ron Terwilliger and I maintain frequent communication, and I spoke with him recently. He is active as Chair of the USNA Foundation, and sharp as always. I also connected with Al Griggs to express congratulations on the 250th birthday of the Marine Corps. He and Sally are well in New England. Lastly, I had a delightful dinner in California earlier this month with Chuck Peterson ’60 — the 18th Company Commander in our Plebe Year – and my Firstie. He is quite well, still active in the nuclear energy field as a lawyer, and we enjoyed reminiscing about those early days. Cynthia and I are settled and much enjoying ranch life in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. We are blessed with good health and an abundance of visitors among our many children and grandchildren! Cynthia is a real cowgirl — herds cattle, brands them, inoculates them — and never a concern about the weather! I remain active in development with a couple of interesting projects and serve on our Fire Protection Board and the County Planning Commission, along with the Rotary Board and a couple of local non-profit boards.
’63: Beginning a memorable dinner together
’63: Dining in the wine cellar
Nearby are three photos from our time together. In the first are Mike Spear, Matt Small, Bill Earner, Earl Buck, Dave Bingemann, Bernie Patterson, Al Breen, Richard Kell and John Boley. Not shown are Dick and Marylyn Augur, who had to leave early. In the second photo are Celes and Earl Buck, Mary and Dave Bingemann, Margarette and John Boley, Matt and Betti Small. Appearing in the third photo are Mike and Linda Spear, Bill and Jennifer Earner, Bernie and Cathy Patterson, Richard Kell Last fall Jim Oakes enjoyed a visit to one of the ships he served aboard and sent this brief report. M The day before Thanksgiving my guests and I were given a private tour of the USS Midway (CV-41) in San Diego. Our docent was A.J. Ronacher, USNA 1975, a former helicopter pilot who has been a Midway docent for 5 years. He gave us a three- hour tour from stem to stern. It brought back a lot of memories. I even got to see my stateroom in officer country where I berthed for two years. An article about my meeting with Fleet Admiral Nimitz in 1963 shortly after we graduated was recently published in the “Midway Currents,” a quarterly publication.
Al Ronacher ’75 and Jim Oakes ’63
Writing in late November, Jim De Francia sent this summary of his numerous contacts with ’63 classmates and wives last autumn. M While visiting our younger grandson at San Diego State two months ago, Cynthia and I also had a delightful visit with Max Ricketts. In fact, Max hosted a small party with several of his local friends and our classmate Lew Blackwell. We enjoyed quite an affair complete with music, song, and abundant food. Mike Rubel joined me for lunch in Del Mar a few days later and we caught up on our respective activities. He is also working on a book and we shared experiences in publication. In late October I was a guest of the new USNA Superintendent at his tailgate for the USF game, followed by being a guest on the Flag Bridge for the game. Cynthia had a conflict for that weekend, so I invited Jim and Kate Ring to join me as I was permitted one guest and managed to make that for two! It was a great game and a delightful day, and I was most happy to have spent some time with Jim. I am in regular communication with Dave Thornhill and John Kallestad (We were all roommates First Class year.), and I can report that they are both doing well. Dave is settled in Jacksonville, and John back home in Minnesota, both quite active and in good health. I also had contact with Joe Strasser’s widow, Barbara, when in Philadelphia for some 250th USN Anniversary events in October. (Joe and I were roommates in our first three years, then he moved to an assigned room upon selection as Company Commander the last year). Barbara is in good health and settled in a retirement complex in New Jersey.
Jim sets a fine example of staying in touch with our classmates. Why not follow his lead? Take a minute this week to contact a 1963 classmate you haven’t seen or spoken with for a while. You will both be glad you did. As I was wrapping up this column in late January, I received another note from Jim with especially good news that will be of interest to all of us.
M I have been working with the Alumni Association in making a documentary film about our class foundation; how we assisted the children of lost classmates, and how that effort led to our fostering the ’63 Center for Academic Excellence. The first draft of the film should be done this Spring. The production team is looking through Lucky Bags to find older pictures of our lost classmates to feature in the video. They were reminded that while the CAE is the ultimately achieved resource, the real story is the people who made it happen, the people we lost, and that the CAE is their memorial and legacy. The production team is really taking that to heart. That’s all for now. Be sure to visit the much longer online version of this column on our web site at www.usna63.org/shipmate/ to see several news items and photographs from ’63 activities. Please contact me soon with news of yourself and our classmates. We need your input to keep our Shipmate reports full and interesting. QUALITY – ’63 MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 51
64/64 CLASS NEWS
’64
Life Membership: 65% Donor Participation: 00.19% Pres: CAPT Michael 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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9411/feed Website: www.usna64.org
Classmates who have not signed on to the Alumni Association daily newsletter may not be aware one of the more famous among us received another notable recognition. Late last year our friend and New Day USA Chairman ADM Tom Lynch was honored by the Naval Order of the United States with the Admiral of the Fleet George Dewey Award. The ceremony took place aboard Admiral Dewey’s flagship, USS Olympia, in Philadelphia. It was an historic setting that served as a meaningful backdrop to Tom’s lifetime of leadership, integrity and service to our nation. This award recognizes senior naval leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary contributions to the Navy and to the cause of freedom around the world.
’64: A Great Looking Crowd
firm determination to continually advance the paramount interests of the United States and its Sea Services. The award is a 12-inch by 15-inch plaque bearing the Seal of the Naval Order in the center, flanked by the obverse and reverse of the large Naval Order Cross. The award is named in honor of Admiral George Dewey ’58, who served as Commander General of the Naval order from 1907 to 1917. Presentation is made at a formal ceremony, preferably the annual Naval Order annual congress. It was first awarded in 2002 to former President George H. W. Bush. Bravo Xulu Tom! On 12 December, classmates were invited by CDR Myron Lind, skipper of Carney (DDG64,) homeported at Mayport, FL, to join his crew at their annual Christmas party thereby continuing a nearly 30-year unbroken relationship with our namesake Naval vessel. This year’s event was held at the Prime F Osborn III Convention Center in Jacksonville.
Coincidently, Carney’s designated Plank Owner Skipper CDR Lanny King ’78, was stricken with a fateful illness and died before the ship was actually commissioned. Accordingly, it became natural to name the annual top JO selection the Lanny King Award. Accordingly, LTJG Pablo Ojeda was selected by his shipmates to be JO of the year. During the holiday festivities, continuing the well-established tradition, he was awarded the 2025 Lanny King Award along with a citation signed by Class President Mike Farmer and a check for $1,964.00.
Early in the evening Pat Palombi, Florence Marquis, Ken and Betty Fusch, and your humble correspondent – yet to arrive John and Penny Klein
By way of background, the award is presented annually to honor a U.S. citizen eligible for regular membership in the Naval Order, who has established a record of exemplary service that sets that individual apart from his or her peers. In 2001, former Commander General of the Naval Order of the United States RADM William F. Merlin, USCG, (Ret.) proposed the establishment of a new award for the Naval Order to honor a senior civilian official for “unique achievements by that individual based on exceptional insight, persistent effort and
52 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Most classmates will recall Carney’s 1994 launching spawned intense interest in memorializing the unique relationship between the ship’s designation and our class year. After much – much – discussion, a decision was reached to annually recognize a Junior Officer in the Ship’s Company, selected by his or her shipmates.
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John, Pat, Penny, Pablo, Florence, Whoever, Betty and Ken
We received a note from Sam Davies describing an Army - Navy Game watch party organized by Mary and Andy Thompson along with Peggy and Dick Curley. The event, attended by a large number of ’64’ers, and was held at the Fairfax Army / Navy Club in Fairfax, VA. Classmates and spouses (plus Alexandra, the Thompson’s granddaughter) enjoyed a delicious hearty meal in a room just right for the band of classmates and spouses. Everyone did
64/65 CLASS NEWS their part in cheering Navy on to the hard-fought victory. It was a terrific evening enjoyed by all – delicious food, great friends together, a warm comfortable environment and a Navy Victory! As is painfully obvious, lately your ’64 Shipmate Column is painfully bereft of material. Please don’t make your humble correspondent fill the column with more embarrassing self-bilging stories as he was forced to do in the previous column! Take a minute to send us personal, family, professional, classmate bilging (!) scuttlebutt, etc. stuff. Don’t worry about style, grammar, spelling, and so forth. After decades of converting submitted classmate material into “The King’s English,” literally nothing phases me! Fair winds and a quartering sea, classmates
’65
Life Membership: 66% Donor Participation: 00.19% Pres: CAPT Jim Minderlein, USN (Ret.) p: 410-841-6644; e: jimm65@verizon.net Corr Sec’y: CDR Dave Anderson, USN (Ret.) 1600 Ala Moana Blvd. #2208, Honolulu, HI 96815 c: 816-621-0878 e: daveand65@me.com; daveand65@earthlink.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9412/feed Class of 1965 Home Page: http://www.daveand65.com/USNA65/ https://daveand65.wixsite.com/usna65photos
Alas, we lost several more good men in the two-month period since the last Shipmate issue. These included: Fred Grimshaw, Larry Leovic, Jim Lawin, Mike Griffin and John Wilkinson. I can’t give them the write-ups they deserve in my wordcount-limited column, so PLEASE check the “Last Call” section for details on their lives and careers. From Jim Minderlein, 02 Dec M It is my sad duty to inform you of the death of our classmate, Frederick Arthur Grimshaw, Jr. on 26 Nov. I received his obituary below from the Alumni Association. Fred and I were teammates on the 150 pound football team that won the National Championship in 1963. I remember him as being one tough and hardnosed football player, but also an affable, easy-going guy who always had a smile on his face. Fred got his wings and after leaving the Navy pursued a career with Boston Edison. Fred graduated from the 4th Company and is the 9th deceased member of 22 graduates from that company. May he Rest in Peace along with his beloved wife, Karen, who passed away a week earlier than Fred. Jim
From Jim Minderlein, 20 Dec M I am sad to inform you of the death of our classmate, Lawrence Joseph Leovic. The notification came from Jack Urban through Phil Ferrara and Jack Devine, all 26th Company classmates. He was the Company Commander for the Fall set. Larry is the 3rd deceased member of 23 graduates in that company. Larry resigned as a Lieutenant and went on to retire as an airline pilot for Federal Express, living in Reno, NV. Please keep Diane in your prayers. Jim From Jim Minderlein, 23 Dec M I regret to inform you of the death of our classmate, James Arthur Lawin on 18 Dec. I just received the notification and obituary from the USNAAA. Jim graduated from the 4th Company and is the 10th deceased member of 22 graduates from that company. He is survived by his wife of 54 years Mary; his daughter Erika Snow, and two grandchildren. Jim served as a Surface Warfare Officer after graduation and pursued several civilian occupations in ND. Such sad news so close to Christmas, Jim From Jim Miinderlein, 06 Jan M I am sorry to inform you of the death of our classmate, Michael Airey Griffin back on 17 Apr 25 at an assisted living facility near his home in Fort Townsend, WA. I just received the notice below from Mike Malone. Mike retired as a commander in the JAG Corps following his graduation from the 29th Company and is the 4th deceased member of 22 graduates from that company. Mike is survived by his loving wife, Pat. Bill Zuna got wind of John Wilkinson’s passing on 13 Dec and worked his obit for Shipmate and sent it there on 13 Jan. John became a nuclear submariner following graduation. On leaving the Navy, he joined Connecticut General Life Insurance which later became CIGNA. There he enjoyed a long, successful career retiring as chief financial officer. John is survived by his wife, Marcia, son Craig, and five grandchildren. From Lynn Wegner, 24 Nov M Today I attended the service for Jay Sprague. I had a very good and lengthy conversation with his wife of 35 years, Mary, who is a retired Navy captain from Duluth, MN. They met when both of them were stationed in DC. She was very pleased and thankful that one of his classmates came. They spent their Summers up here on nearby Lake Caribou, MN. They had just finished building a cabin on that lake. Jay had been suffering from Parkinson’s for the last 10 years. He will be interred in the USNA columbarium when the expansion is completed in several years. Bonnie and I are so happy that we were able to attend and were able to visit with his family and friends. Lynn
The Wegners
On to happier news. Mike Epprecht on 05 Dec posted a survey on the Wardroom about our 65th Reunion. If you didn’t get the survey and wish to participate, contact Mike at mike.epprecht65@ gmail.com. Only 62 reponses but the options with the most votes were these. Location – Annapolis, Season – Spring, (it will likely be a 3-day weekend in late Apr 2020), Crowne Plaza as the hotel. From Phil Ferrara, 10 Dec M Attending the 03 Dec Class of ’65 lunch at McGarvey’s Saloon were Jim Minderlein, Hal Amerau, Ed Linz, Frank Peterson, Chip Seymour, Phil Ferrara, Sam Dutrow, Tom Kinder, Bob Sullivan, Bob Brown, Moke DeMatta, Bob Green, Sonny Harrison, Mike Luecke, Pat Philbin, Charlie Morrison, Carter Refo, John Collins, Skip Orr and Doug Norton.
From Rick Rickard, 13 Dec M The annual Army-Navy party hosted by Ron & Sue Wecht ended in victory today! Pictured in the photo are: Bob Stanfield, Chip Allen, Rick Rickard, Jeanne Allen, Allyson Rickard, Sue Wecht, Ron Wecht, Barb Goodroe, and Wayne Goodroe. Will Kirkland was there at the outset but had to leave early. Beat Army! Rick
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MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 53
65/66 CLASS NEWS
From Jim Roorbach, 14 Dec M Left to right: Jim Roorbach, Judie Zitzewitz, Pam Epprecht, Mike Everett, Pat Eggert and Larry Eggert. They were a part of the group of 30 that watched Navy beat Army at our house in the Villages Florida. The weather was much better here. Warm regards, Jim.
Jim Minderlein posted on 18 Dec the minutes of that month’s COCP meeting. Mitch Henderson participated, advocating for each class – especially those graduating in the last century to establish a Health Care Coordinator, much like the role Mitch has taken on for our class. If interested in the minutes, contact Jim M at jimm65@verizon.net. Jim also indicated that a Class Election will take place on 31 Mar and the slate of office nominees will close on 31 Jan. Jim has decided to retire as our Class President, after providing decades of great service to our class. Mike Epprecht has agreed to be a nominee for Class Prez. Bill Zuna on 06 Jan posted an updated PDF file of our Last Call classmates. All the brave souls who have passed away. If you didn’t get a copy, send an email to Bill at wfzlez@gmail. com and he’ll send you one. Jim Minderlein compiled some quite interesting stats on our Last Call classmates; email him at jimm65@ verizon.net if you’d like to see them. From Ted Nanz, 07 Jan M Advent with sons and their families at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale. While in Fort Lauderdale he took the opportunity to see granddaughter perform in a ballet as prima ballerina, and who was featured on the front cover of a flyer for another upcoming ballet. From Skip Gunther, 07 Jan
54 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
’65: The Nanz Family
M The Atlanta-Area First Wednesday Monthly Class of 65 Lunch is now firmly established with its second-ever meeting held today at Laredos Mexican Restaurant in Kennesaw, GA. Attending were: Lee Mager (visiting from NC), Austin Crowe, Art Cherwonky, Dave Hunter, Bill Williams, Bob Snelling and Skip Gunther. What a distinguished group! Our next lunches are scheduled for noon on the first Wednesdays of the month at Laredos (1635 Old 41 HWY NW, Kennesaw, GA). All classmates — just bring good stories — are welcome! Skip
Lee Mager posted on 13 Jan that he too is retiring – from being our Wardroom eForum Managing Director for decade after decade. His declining health is part of this. We all owe Lee a debt of gratitude and our thanks for his loyal service to our class in managing/monitoring the Wardroom e-mail website posting site. Pretty sure Ed Linz has volunteered to take over the monitoring part of the site, but we need an IT guru to take over the managing part. If you are interested and capable of doing this, please respond to Jim M with a copy to Mike Epprecht. And/or contact Lee at lee. mager@gmail.com to get a sense of what the techie tasks consist of. From Doug Metzger, 16 Jan M After 16-17 days in ICU, I was moved to a regular room. I was admitted for flu and they found pneumonia and a viral lung infection. It has been quite a journey but we are making daily progress. The support of my wife and 3 children have been incredible. The prayer support of so many has been a real blessing and I’m sure helped to bring me from the point of death to where I am now. I had a PEG tube inserted today and sometime next week I hope to move to a rehab. Thanks for the support, all my friends. Doug
From Phil Ferrara, 17 Jan M Wednesday January 14 was another cold day in paradise for ‘65ers...we had to go on the second Wednesday due to Saloon construction, but many still made the lunch. Attending were Bob Green, Jim Stark, Phil Ferrara, Sonny Harrison, Charlie Morrison, Sam Dutrow, Bob Sullivan, Tom Kinder, Ed Linz, Mike Luecke, Carter Refo, Skip Shealy and John Collins. There were lots of Mids in the Saloon at the same time, and we learned that Company and Squad leaders can take selected members out for lunch on Wednesdays only, …a day away from King Hall!!! Finally, Ernie Ambort chipped in on 16 Jan: M I live in Tulare, SD (pop. 207), a small farm town. Turn 86 y/o next month and still ride a bike around the town, in decent weather, am in surprisingly good health for my age, active on the computer 6 days a week. He had more details on his colorful life. If interested, email him at gambort11@gmail.com. Thazzit, guys! Aloha, Dave
’66
Life Membership: 67% Donor Participation: 00.53% Pres: Jim Long e: jalongiii@aol.com Sec’y: C DR Mike Baird, USN (Ret.) 10439 Rivington Ct., Lone Tree, CO 80124 e: mike.baird@1966.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9413/feed Website: www.usna66.org
I’ll open with an apology to Anita and Pete Bernier. Apparently, the photo in the November-December issue for the September Virginia War Memorial visit was incorrectly labeled. Their daughter was correctly named, but the gentleman with her was COL Kevin Rue, USA, (Ret.) (USMA ‘77). Also attending the event was Jim Cowardin, though he was not pictured. Pete sent me the
65/67 CLASS NEWS following photo of Anita and him and their daughter Joanna and her real husband, Charles Nelson, celebrating the great victory over Army on 13 December 2025. Thanks for the clarification, Pete.
Ginny and Charlie Jones visited Pierce Johnson at his senior facility to participate in their holiday dinner event. Charlie provided the photo to capture the get together. Thanks, Charlie.
’66: African safari group
Directory is as accurate as possible, please send your updated contact info to me and your Company Rep. A list of Company Reps is found on our web site. Click on “Resources” and under “Support for Classmates” is a link to the Co/Batt Rep listing. Meanwhile stay safe and healthy. Until June — All the best — Mike!!!
Norm Hapke, Bruce Wright, Jack Feehan, Jim Gilbert, Pete Burggren, Bill Stedfield, Curt Dose, Soup Campbell, Budd Goodwin, Steve Andres, Pete Phelps, Rich McNeal, Paul Ward and Bob Lang.
Life Membership: 76% Donor Participation: 00.31%
M We have sold 350 hard cover and 100 soft cover “Sworn to Serve” books and the publisher is sold out, Because some classmates still wish to purchase a book, we can do a small second printing (hard cover version only) provided there is interest, Assuming an order for 24 copies, the cost would be about $74 each (shipping and tax is additional), If the demand is such that we need to print more than 24, then the price would come down accordingly. If you recall from last time, Doug Matthews funded a memorial to the 174 USNA graduates, including nine from ’67, that lost their lives in Vietnam, and the two USNA
’67
Pres: CDR David E. Church, USN (Ret.)
Robert Johnsion sent the following update on his and Patti’s travels. M We just got back from a two-week safari in Africa in October. We had four separate 2/3 day safaris, starting in Kenya, going to the to the Serengeti, on to Tanzania, and last part, two days in Rwanda, spending four hours on a hike up the mountains and finding the Silverback Gorillas. We were there during the migration season, and saw many animals; Zebras, Giraffes, Elephants, Lions, and Wildebeest. Just a most amazing journey, lots of fun, the animals came right up to our caravan and allowed us to take pictures and videos. Really the vacation of a lifetime. If you haven’t been there yet, you must see it. My younger sister, Kristina showed us all around. She spent five years on the African Wildlife Foundation (AFW) Board of Trustees, after she left the Obama Administration.
Sec’y: LtCol Jim McNeece, USMC (Ret.) 1603 John Worthington Way, Crownsville, MD 21032 p: 410-849-3423; e: scribe67@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9414/feed
Bob Lang starts us off with a note and a photo: M Class of 1967 classmates in the San Diego area gathered at the home of Jim Gilbert in Poway (just north of San Diego) on 13 Dec 25 to watch the Army-Navy game. The picture was posed in Jim’s back yard with fruit trees. (L - R): Warren Millard, Gordon Pettus,
Jon Holzapfel provided an update on “Sworn to Serve,” the compilation of the contributions of our Class in Vietnam. By the time you see this it may be too late to jump in for a copy, but you can check with Jon to see. His email: hoze1967@gmail.com. He said:
Thanks, Robert. Great photo. That wraps up this issue. Just a reminder to keep checking the Class web site, usna66.org, for updates on the 60th Reunion and other Class news. Also, to ensure the 60th Reunion ’67: MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 55
67/68 CLASS NEWS astronauts (Mike Smith and Willie McCool ‘83) lost in Space Shuttle disasters. The memorial was dedicated on 16 December 2025 at the Valiant Air Command Museum at the Titusville Airport, Titusville, FL. Lou Romano provided some great pictures.
Lou & Annie Romano at the monument
Jane Smith Wolcott and Bill Vivian’67 (standing in for Doug Matthews ‘67)
Dave Church removing the symbolic Dixie Cup from the monument
And I’m afraid that’s all the “news” news there is for this time. 56 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Missing Muster: those we’ve lost Earl Adams (non-grad who left USNA in March 1965). Obituary link: https://t.ly/ XQC5A. Earl died on 7 Nov 2025; tragically his daughter Heather died 22 Nov 2025. Theirs was a joint funeral. For memorial contributions see his obituary. Sheldon Arey. Obituary link: https://t.ly/ y8PQJ. Sheldon passed away on 23 November 2025 in Virginia Beach. A private service will be held at a future date. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice. Dwight “Sturdy” Hughes died on 15 April 2025 surrounded by his family after having been admitted to the hospital with cardiac problems. I have no obituary, but here is a link to a wonderful tribute from those he worked with: https://t.ly/blyxb. Richard Kaluza (non-grad who left USNA in Oct 1963). Obituary link: https://t.ly/ KBOCv. I have no record of what company he was in. Michael (“Boats”) Williams died on 5 December 2025 in Calvert County, MD after a long bout with cancer. Mike was our “Salty Sam” and the Marine Corps’ 28th Assistant Commandant. His funeral was on 18 December 2025 at the chapel at Marine Corps Base Quantico with a full honors burial following at the Quantico National Cemetery. Rufus Artman, Denny McGinn, Norb Ryan, Dick Branum, Dave Church, Rich Mies, Jack Parry, JJ O’Brien, Denny Shaw, Larry Pigeon, Buddy Barnes and I attended what was a full Marine Corps send off for one of its best. Mike’s full obituary is at https://t.ly/e6HjZ. Jim McQueen died at home in Milton, WV on 22 December 2025 as a result of pancreatic cancer. According to Amanda, his wife, his burial was private. Her email address is Amandajill8862@gmail.com, and her cell is 304541-8862, She would welcome any phone calls. Contributions in Jim’s honor may be made to the Hospice of Huntington (https:// hospiceofhuntington.org/donate/), Jim’s obituary is at https://t.ly/DLhIq. Dave Scott, Lin Wells and Dick Branum reported the news that Tony Del Balzo passed away on 27 December 2025 at his home in Riva, MD, where he had resided for almost forty years. Tony’s obituary is at https://t.ly/OGQOG. Don Geismar reported the death of Jim Cook. Further information is not yet available, but his wife, Paula, is planning a burial in Arlington National Cemetery when it can be arranged. Cassi Martin, wife of Michael Martin, passed away on 29 December 2025. Her obituary is at https://t.ly/47NCH. Gerald “Corky” Corcoran passed away on 17 December 2025 as a result of pulmonary fibrosis. Corky went nuclear power after graduation, serving on several nuclear submarines in many billets from Division Officer
through commanding officer. Ashore, he served in many staff and command positions. He is survived by Karen, his wife of 57 years, two sons, Scott (Kimberly) and Kevin, and four grandchildren. Corky’s services were on 13 January 2026 at the Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, SC. According to Jack Parry it was a very casual gathering of family, friends, classmates and contemporary submariners. He sent a photo of ’67 attendees: Jackie and Garth Van Sickle, Nita and Jack Parry, Doug Ogden, Al Winn, and John Chehansky.
’67 at Corky’s funeral
That’s it…Goodnight!…I’m looking forward to notes you might send telling me about fun/ interesting stuff you’ve been up to.…Jim
’68
Life Membership: 62% Donor Participation: 00.00% 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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9415/feed Website: www.usna68.com
A hearty Bravo Zulu to team captain Jeff Dumas for leading his Boulder Road Runners “Men’s 80+ Team” to first-place finishes in two USA Track and Field (USATF) cross country national championship meets. What a way to close out 2025 and commence 2026! At the USATF Masters Cross Country Championships held 6-7 December at Portland, OR, Jeff earned the national title in the Men’s 80-84 division with a winning time of 47:27 over a muddy, 8K course while leading his team to a first-place finish. On 11 January at Tallahassee, FL, in the USATF National Club Cross Country Championships, Jeff again led his Men’s 80+ team to win the “club” title by beating out four other East Coast teams for the gold on the 8K course. “I was fortunate to be the first finishing runner on our team and for all the registered teams,” Jeff reported. “Overall, in the 80+ age group, I came in second to an unaffiliated
68/68 CLASS NEWS runner.” Jeff finished with a time of 44:37. To put that time in perspective for an 8K’s equivalent distance of 5 miles, Jeff averaged an 8:55 mile pace! “Bottom line,” Jeff said, “with the team win in Portland in December and the repeat in Tallahassee in January, our BRR team is now the uncontested cross country national champ in the 80+ age group.” Congratulations, Jeff! You validate the veracity of Sir Isaac Newton’s First Law of Motion: An object in motion tends to stay in motion.
their F-18Es to begin a training phase aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt. In a ceremony at the North Island I Bar, VFA-211’s current commanding officer, CDR Logan Peck, was presented the trophy with all his air crew and officers present. The trophy will now reside in the squadron ready room at their base in NAS Oceana, VA, for permanent display.” Dick also noted that Craig Honour was assigned to an F-4 squadron in the early 1970s that was also awarded the trophy. During Christmas week, Barbara and George Breeden celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary by visiting their extended family in Florida. Diana and I joined Donna and Reid Carlock for an enjoyable lunch with them at the Columbia Restaurant in Clearwater on 21 December. George and Barbara were accompanied by her brother, Jim Kelly. The Columbia Restaurant is famed for its delicious Spanish-Cuban cuisine and waterfront view—a perfect setting to swap sea stories and catch up on everyone’s activities of late.
her high school friends, a retired Army colonel, is sponsoring a young plebe in the Class of 2029 by the name of Keagan Marie Markun. She also brought her roommate, Ella Bishop. As it turns out Keagan’s granddad is our 14th Company classmate Jack Dempsey. Even more interesting is that there are six plebes in ’29 whose grandfathers are our classmates!” Roy thought that as our class scribe, I might want to identify the other classmates. This prompted me to contact Jack. “Larry Taylor also has a grandson in the Class of 2029,” he replied. “He’s a member of the D&B. And here’s a fun fact—Keagan is in the same company I was during plebe year—the 32nd Company!” I know that Steve Hannifin’s grandson is in ’29 … so who are our three remaining classmates whose grandchildren have followed in their footsteps?
Jeff Dumas, center, flanked by his national championship Boulder Running Club teammates, following the USATF Masters Cross Country Championships.
When Dick Evert was the commanding officer of Fighter Squadron 211 in 1984-1985 (flying F-14 Tomcats), his squadron received the Admiral Joe Clifton Award as the Navy’s best fighter squadron. “The Joseph C. Clifton Trophy was awarded for the first time in 1968 to VF-51,” Dick explained, “recognizing meritorious achievement by a fighter squadron while deployed aboard a carrier. The award is in memory of Rear Admiral Clifton, who distinguished himself as a fighter pilot during World War II. His heroism and extraordinary achievements in flight paralleled the aggressive attitude, drive, and inspiring leadership he displayed throughout his life.” As Dick related, the trophy was retired after its presentation to his squadron. The silver bowl, with its cherry wood base, has been in the possession of VF-211 commanding officers ever since. “I received the trophy from my predecessor early last year,” he said, “and in December I coordinated a VFA -211 reunion in San Diego when the entire squadron arrived in
Dining at the Columbia, from left: Barbara Breeden, Jim Kelly, Gordon and Diana Peterson, Donna and Reid Carlock, George Breeden.
During Thanksgiving week, Betsy and Roy Carter joined their daughter for a holiday feast in Virginia that had an interesting dimension. As Roy explained, “Our eldest daughter is a pediatrician at Fairfax Children’s Hospital. She often works Thanksgiving to allow her staff with young families to take the holiday off. So, for years, we celebrate Turkey Day early at her place; we call it ‘pre-Turk.’ It was a large gathering Saturday night—17 people—with friends of hers and ours. Her friends included local high school and college friends. One of
’68: Dick Evert, center, with the “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron 211, during the presentation of the Joseph C. Clifton Trophy.
Midn 4/c Ella Bishop, Roy Carter, and Midn 4/c Keagan Marie Markun.
Speaking of grandchildren attending the Academy, I’m mindful that Ed Sundberg and Rick Buchanan, joined by their families, will return to Annapolis in May for the Class of 2026’s graduation. They attended their grandchildren’s induction ceremony in 2022. Ed’s two grandchildren, fraternal twins Daphne Marie Sundberg and Edward Andrew Sundberg, are in the class; Daphne will go Marine Corps and Edward surface warfare … Rick’s grandson Brian Buchanan chose submarines. The young man I mentored for six years, Conner Pate, will also graduate and is going Navy air. The new year brought the sad news of the loss of two classmates—Robert “Bob” Donohue and Jefferson “Skip” Prestridge on 15 and 13 January, respectfully. They were both non-graduating members of our class. May they rest in peace. Bob Donohue passed away peacefully at age 79 in Warwick, RI. A standout sprinter on our indoor and outdoor track teams, he graduated from the University of Rhode Island following his departure from the Academy and later was awarded an MBA from Bryant University. A longtime financial advisor he was respected for his commitment to serving his clients honestly and in their best interest for 55 years, first at a bank in Providence, RI, most recently at RBC Wealth Management, and prior to that several other banks in Boston. MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 57
68/69 CLASS NEWS As Chairman of the Warwick Board of Public Safety under Mayor Lincoln Chafee from 19931998, he instituted best financial measures and practices for the benefit of both city employees and taxpayers. Bob is survived by his wife, Barbara, son Derek Donohue and his wife, Julie, of Fair Haven, NJ; Elizabeth Humphrey and her husband, Dan, of West Simsbury, CT; several grandchildren, other family members, and many valued decadeslong friends and colleagues. His life was honored at a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Timothy Church, in Warwick, RI, on 24 January. Jefferson “Skip” Leon Prestridge Jr., 82, passed away 13 January at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston with family by his side. Following graduation from high school in Hebron, CT, Jeff followed in his father’s footsteps to serve honorably in the Navy from 1962-1968. During that time, he served aboard the submarine-rescue ship USS Kittiwake during the Cuban Blockade and attended the Academy. After departing our ranks after nearly four years, he started a family, earned a master’s degree in education and was a dedicated educator for 36 years until 2005. He was a distinguished educator, serving as a teacher for children with special needs, a high school English teacher and football coach, and administrator. As principal at the Charleston Mountain View Correctional Facility in Charleston, ME, Jeff built a therapeutic education program for youth that became a model nationwide. He was a loving husband and father. In retirement he built a two-story, lakeside cabin in Maine for his family to enjoy. He was a gifted writer. Family, friends, and our Academy classmates enjoyed his frequent Facebook postings. Jefferson is survived by his wife, Lori (Perrigo) Prestridge, and a large family of daughters, a sister, several nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. A graveside memorial service with military honors will be held 22 May at the Puddledock Cemetery in Charleston, ME. Take care and all the best, Gordo
CLASS SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES
’69
Life Membership: 60% Donor Participation: 00.31% Pres: Steve Comiskey p: 703-628-5536; e: swcomiskey@gmail.com Exec Vice Pres: Jim “Sandy” Sandberg p: 301-481-4157; e: Jim.Sandberg@1969.USNA.COM Sec’y: Pat Stroop p: 410-279-4575; e: pstroop@hotmail.com Treas: Ron Gumbert 4300 Summertime Ln., Helena, MT 59602 p: 703-624-1267; e: rongumbert@icloud.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9416/feed Webmaster: Howie Bacharach p: 410-507-2932; e: howardbacharach@gmail.com
a gathering at a local watering hole - in this case the Little Fleet, in downtown Traverse City, selected not only for its Navy symbolism, but also its excellent beverage options! Next year’s 25th anniversary event is scheduled for the week of 13 July in Grand Rapids. From John Stockdale: M Bill Poirier, John Stockdale and Hugh Batten, three ’69 swimmers, plus Trey Batten ’00, Hugh’s son, got together in December to watch both the men and women Navy teams crush Army in the 2025 meet. I’ve attached a photo of the four of us celebrating at Harry Browne’s after the swim meet.
Website: www.usna69.org
Push-ups! Ready…begin! Vun, two, vun, two. Etc. Etc. Etc. Ah, yes…who can forget Heinz Lentz? Sadly, we lost him years ago, but I remember him during our plebe summer and more recently during basketball games doing laps around the concourse in Alumni Hall to work on his body fat! On to the news. From Doug Bishop: Left to right: Trey Batten ’00, Bill Poirier, Hugh Batten, and John Stockdale
Left to right: Mark Warner, John Mulderig, Dave Zerfoss, honorary 69er Jim Pavelka, Doug Bishop, Pat Maley, Bert Conlon and Craig McClain. Missing from the picture but not the adventure: Bob Adamson, Tom LaForce, Bob Ahrens and Mike Haddon.
M The 24th annual golf outing of our class’s Jim Calvert Group took place in Traverse City, MI the last week of 25 July. What started 24 years ago in Scottsdale, AZ has morphed into an annual Northern Michigan event, alternating between Traverse City and Grand Rapids. Courses played this year were the Traverse City Country Club, the Wolverine at Grand Traverse Resort, Manitou Passage and A Ga Ming Sundance. The event typically starts with
If you subscribed to the “Daily Shipmate”, you would have seen a picture of four ’69ers at Shore Break Pizza in Virginia Beach reacting to the touchdown that Beat Army! Again!! If you would like to subscribe to the “Daily Shipmate” and find out what is happening at USNA on a real-time basis (or nearly so), please let me know and I will send you the gouge on how to sign up. For those of you who have not seen the picture, see it below. From Pat Stroop: M We had a wonderful time (for three days and nights!) bringing in the New Year at Dan and Cindy Johnson’s place in Duck, NC. We watched a little football (Go Navy!), ate way too much, and had a few drinks. Enjoying all the good times were Pat and Mary Stroop, Dennis Yatras and Debbie Scott, Stan and Judy Bryant and Ted and Joni Kanastas (Dennis’s brother-in-law and sister).
Send to: classnews@usna.com
2026 Shipmate
ISSUE:
DUE DATE:
July-August ’26
27 May ’26
September-October ’26
29 Jul ’26
November-December ’26
23 Sept ’26 ’69: Left to right: Dennis Plank, Tom and Jane Fowler, Bob (with 1 o) Byles
58 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
69/70 CLASS NEWS
’70
Life Membership: 64% Donor Participation: 00.46% Pres: CDR Edmund E. Moore, USN (Ret.) e: edmund.moore@gmail.com Sec’y: CDR Lew McIntyre, USN (Ret.) e: lewis.f.mcintyre@gmail.com Webmaster: Ed Moore e: edmund.moore@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9417/feed Website: http://1970.usnaclasses.com
’69 Celebrates the New Year
From Dave Spriggs: M On 13 December 2025, Juana (my special lady) and I had the honor and pleasure of attending the 80th birthday party for Tito Rincon in Northern Virginia. Tito is my 28th Company-mate and was my roommate during Youngster year. In addition to Tito’s family and friends, Jack Smith (’68, 36th Company) and his wife, Maria, were in attendance. Tito met Jack when Jack was assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela. Tito’s wife, Alicia, organized an elegant and festive affair, designed around a home already wonderfully decorated for Christmas. The dinner menu featured typical Venezuelan dishes, which were enjoyed by all. As a bonus, the Army-Navy Game was playing on a huge TV screen. We cheered the Big Blue on to victory, all the while bantering with the Army supporters present.
Left to right: Maria Smith; Jack Smith ’68; Tito Rincon; Dave Spriggs; Juana Cruz; Alicia Rincon
A note about the Class of 1969 2026 elections: the elections will be held about the same time as they were in 2025. The Class of 1969 Foundation has four positions open for election: Executive Vice President Jim (Sandy) Sandberg incumbent; Board of Director At Large #1 Tim Oliver incumbent; Board of Director At Large #4 Jim Paddock incumbent; and Board of Director At Large #7 Rich Cataldi incumbent. These 4 men have
been asked to run again. Additionally, John Ohlinger johlinger@att.net is working diligently to find more volunteers to run for these 4 positions. If you want to run, or your ability to persuade others to run works, please let John know as soon as possible!
Non sibi.
USNA CANDIDATES Start the youngster you know on the road to USNA. To request info or apply online, visit usna.edu/Admissions.
Sound the Last Post George L. Moe (1st Co.) passed away on Sunday, 16 November 2025 in Poway, CA. George was born in West Orange, NJ on 14 January 1948 to Ingvald and Dorothy Moe. He graduated from West Orange Mountain High School. George served in the Navy for 25 years. He began his flying career with VF-194 flying F-8 Crusaders from the USS Oriskany, then the F-14 Tomcat with VF-111. As XO and CO of the VF-1 Wolfpack, George was awarded the Clifton Trophy (best fighter squadron in the Navy) and Battle E (best fighter squadron in the Pacific). George was Operations Officer on USS Midway during the Persian Gulf War, and completed his flying service as CO of VF-124, responsible for training all Pacific Fleet F-14 aircrews. His decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and Navy Achievement Medal. After retiring as captain in 1995, George worked for JAYCOR, Inc. as a division vice president and general manager. He was a co-founder and vice president of operations for WBB Services, a business group within Whitney, Bradley & Brown, Inc. Retired again, George volunteered at Father Joe’s Villages (St. Vincent de Paul Village) teaching resume and interview skills. Besides his volunteering, he enjoyed family, traveling, and his wine cellar. As one of George’s 1st Company mates stated, “In life’s journey, we meet people of all calibers and George was one of the highest!” George is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dolores (Dory), his daughter, Katherine Moe, and his sisters, Patricia Moe and Margaret (Moe) Kuell. George was interred at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, San Diego, CA on 14 January 2026. He was laid to rest in the St. Junipero Serra section within the cemetery. On 14 January 2026, nine classmates represented the Class of 1970 in sunny San Diego for George Moe’s funeral and to offer our condolences to wife Dolores and daughter Katie. Left to right: Chip Lancaster (19th Co.), OB Oberholtzer (30th Co.), Russ Olson (1st Co.),- Katie (George’s daughter), Paul Roeder (6th Co.), Dolores (George’s wife), Butch Kondrick (24th Co.), Denny MacBain (1st Co.), Charlie Carey (23th Co.), Carl Weiscopf (36th Co.), and Bill Barry (1st Co,). MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 59
70/71 CLASS NEWS
’70: Classmates gathered at George Moe’s funeral
Binnacle List Terry Huff (7th Co.) has been having back problems for some time, with trouble getting around. The doctor decided to do neck fusion and cleaned out some arthritis. He had to wear a stiff collar brace for 3 weeks, then transition to a soft brace. He is making good progress My wife, Karen McIntyre, had major reconstruction surgery on her right foot in September, which kept her away from the home football games for the season. She is scheduled for an ankle replacement in late January, which should return her to full mobility. Prayers, please!
This year’s 14th Company annual Army-Navy game reunion was held in Colorado Springs hosted by Mike Lowe (14th Co.) and his wife Joanie. Attending were, 14th Co. classmates Tom Brown and wife Paula, Mark Crisson, Bill Fetzer and wife Bobbie, Bud Granger, John Hart, Larry Moore, Paul O’Dell and wife Debbie, Russ Olsen and wife Leslie (honorary 14th Company members), Dupree Parker and wife Kathy, Hank Prevette and his son David, Rick Purcell, Greg Stiles and Elizabeth Folgeman and Chet Strait.
The pictures are the 14th Company group photo and the annual 14th Company tradition of a photo in the hotel elevator at the game halftime with appropriate signage. Rick Purcell is the new 14th Company rep. The Pensacola Alumni Chapter had a tremendously successful Service Academy Day at the National Museum of Naval Aviation at NAS Pensacola. Of course, ’70 was very involved in the project. It became special for our class when one of the representatives for the event was one of our own “Link in the Chain”! Attached is a picture taken at the end of the day. The picture from left to right Mike Charley (22nd Co.), John Holewa (7th Co.), Lt. Rahn Bailey, ’20, and Dick Folga (1st Co.). It was great for us all to meet with Rahn and share sea stories.
Bits and Pieces: Bob Berger (7th Co.) got together with Mike Dunham (11th Co.) for an Air Force-Navy watch party in St Louis. Left to Right: Bob Berger and Mike Dunham.
Ring-A-Ding-Ding
’71
Life Membership: 63% Donor Participation: 00.45% Pres: CAPT Perry Martini, USN (Ret.) e: pmartini71@gmail.com Sec’y: CAPT Mike Longworth, USN (Ret.) e: duke.longworth@1971.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9418/feed Website: http://1971.usnaclasses.net/
Spring in the Yard is always beautiful – flowers are blooming, the air is cool and refreshing. I always enjoyed Stribling Walk as I went from afternoon crew workouts at Hubbard Hall to Mother B. Occasionally, a visitor would stop me and ask directions, some even asked to take a photo of me, a typical midshipman. Life was good. It was a rather halcyon time. First up is a note from Carl Josefson: ’70: 14 CO 60 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
71/71 CLASS NEWS M “Duke, The pictures in the last Shipmate inspired me to send a picture of my wife, Jean, and me with Bill the Goat at the Homecoming gathering at the Fluegel Alumni Center, just before Navy beat South Florida. Got to get these pictures before the opportunity vanishes! Go Navy, Carl.”
Carl & Jean with Bill the Goat
Excellent photo! I look forward to seeing you at our 55th class reunion this fall! Here’s a note from Bill Nevitt: M “Hi, Duke. In November, my wife, Susan, and I were on a cruise ship that stopped in Callao/Lima, Peru. There, we rendezvoused with classmate (and my 35th Company-mate) Lucho Alvarez and his wife Quela. To our great good fortune, Lucho arranged for the four of us to get guided tours of the Peruvian Navy’s tall sailing ship ‘Union’ and of the Peruvian Naval Academy (where Lucho spent 1.5 years before joining our USNA class in June 1967). The tours were delightful and the Peruvian Navy personnel very impressive. Sometimes, during reunions like this, the years seem to melt away; and this was such a time. Best regards, Bill Nevitt.” Sounds like an excellent adventure, especially the opportunity to see Lucho and the Union. I hope to see you at our 55th class reunion this fall!
reunion in New Orleans, September 4 – 6. The National WWII Museum captures that unforgettable time that shaped the entire world and undoubtedly most of our parents’ lives. The Higgins Hotel served as a comfortable base camp. “Randy Harper once again went ‘above and beyond’ in arranging an incredible schedule of events. Planning & organizing matched his excellent 2019 effort (our last company reunion in Austin). Randy, Magnum Semper! “In attendance: Tom Bjerke, Cathy & Dick Cheliras, Jessica Drown & Frank Gallager, Debbie & Jim Gosma, Lana & Tom Hammons, Randy Harper, Jean & Chuck Janes, Mary & Charlie Keating, Kathy & Dan McConnell, Mike O’Connor, Carol & Kevin Nicolin, Martha & Jim Reasoner, Nancy & Rick Smith, Linda & Mike Trent. “Frank Gallager landed in style in his 1956 Cessna 170C, nickname ‘Stormy:, accompanied by copilot Jessica. His log recorded six hours flying time from Valkaria Airport, FL (X59) to Lakefront Airport in New Orleans (KNEW). Frank can always be counted to make a memorable arrival and provide interesting updates! “Two days of tours with great escapes to NOLA environs as needed. Some highlights: ‘Freedom’ film and lunch with music of the 1940s by Victory Belles trio. Stories (like wine) improving with age? Good times! At the final dinner a benediction on the many good fortunes of those gathered with reflection on those we loved and respected that went (too soon) before us: Mark Beck, Bill Hatcher, Rose Harper, Jim Stratton, Earl Weinhaus and , Kathy Whitaker. “The photos below were at Kilroy’s, Higgins Hotel; catching Navy-UAB game before dinner. “Guys photo: First two Rows (L – R): Charlie Keating, Randy Harper, Jim Reasoner, Mike Trent, Chuck Janes, Tom Hammons, Tom Bjerke, Dick Cheliras, Dan McConnell, Rick Smith and Frank Gallager Back Row: Kevin Nicolin, Mike O’Connor and Jim Gosma.
34th CO Reunion Gals
“Best Regards, Mike O’Connor.” Sounds like a most excellent adventure. Hope to see many of you at our 55th class reunion! Pat Doyle is up next with this note: M “Hey, Duke.Just wanted to share that my kids and I completed a ‘bucket list’ type event in December, when the four of us traveled to the East Coast for the 126th Army-Navy game. We based ourselves in Annapolis and visited the Yard, and the Mid Store (more than once), participated in the bus trip and the great tailgate in B-more, and thoroughly enjoyed the ensuing football game. This was my fifth bus ride from Annapolis to the Army-Navy game, and it felt a bit off because it’s the first time that nobody told me what to wear. Luckily, I had lots of Navy swag to layer up in. “On the first evening of our visit, we joined Company mates Sandra and Mike Hallahan, Kathi and Jim Hergenroeder, and Tom Gross for a great meal at the Lodge. We wrapped up the visit with Mass in the Chapel on Sunday, followed by a run to the airport; the snow overnight had us Californians a bit spooked. It brought back memories of that very light snowfall just before Thanksgiving 1967 that shut down the Annapolis area for most of a day or two just as the days ‘… until we beat Army’ were in the low single digits.” Nice bucket list task completed! That was an excellent game to share with your Army family members! Down to the wire! See you at the 55th!
The Doyle’s: Mike (LTC, USA (Ret.)), Pat ’71, Tom, and Kate
Lucho and Bill aboard Union
Next is a note from Mike O’Connor: M “Hi Duke! Fourteen ‘Club 34’ classmates accompanied by eleven lovely ladies enjoyed a
34th CO Reunion Guys
“Gals photo: (L-R) – Jessica Drown, Linda Trent, Lana Hammons, Debbie Gosma, Mary Keating, Martha Reasoner, Jean Janes, Carol Nicolin, Nancy Smith, and Cathy Cheliras.
Dave Vandover sent this A-N note: M “Terry and I attended the Army-Navy game in Baltimore. Unfortunately, our seats were in the nose-bleed section only two rows away from the very top row. We were bundled up and enjoyed another Navy win although this MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 61
71/71 CLASS NEWS one was too close for comfort. We missed seeing everyone after the game. “Our hotel was next door to McCormick & Schmidt’s Seafood Restaurant so we enjoyed a great meal after the game. I wore my ‘Win first Sing Second, Brat Army’ t-shirt for the benefit of the Army fans having dinner!” Hopefully, the wind was at your back! So sorry we missed the game this year! We will see you at the 55th!
the new Navy men’s head basketball coach, who found and emailed over 300 former players, even bench sitters like me, and invited them to ‘join the family,’ so I went to a practice and saw a game now played at a speed none of us are familiar with from our days as Mids. They have a great point guard and even a 6” 11” center who is a national leader. So, I got some tickets and started going to games in Alumni Hall, and when the Army game was coming up I decided we needed a banner from our class for that game. So, with Perry’s help I got our crest art and had a banner made up which I hung behind the Navy bench for the Army game. It was cool to see our crest there in Alumni Hall and it reminded me of the big grey blimp we blew up and flew in the Rotunda before the Army game Plebe year! The team crushed Army 84-56. It really is a new age in Navy basketball, maybe the best team since David Robinson. Here’s where our banner was hung right behind the bench. Go Navy! Thanks, Duke, take care, keep writing.” Excellent banner, Cris! GO NAVY!
Dave & Terry at A-N game
Here’s a note from Tom Laboon: M “Duke, Happy New Year! As you know, Sherry and Bob Chimenti live in Memphis and have for eons. Marie and I went to visit them for the New Year and attend the Liberty Bowl. We all went to Navy’s practice on Jan 1 and Bob and I were lucky enough to get our picture taken with MIDN 1/C Alex Texca after practice. I had my Mt Lebanon ball cap on which caught Texca’s attention, so he stopped us. Bob and Alex talked about knowing some of Alex’s relatives in Erie, PA! Small world stuff!! “We attended the game until halftime. It was just too cold and wet to stay any longer. But what a great victory!! I was really glad to see Texca and MIDN 1/C Heidenreich score TDs in their last game together. Now, I have to find someone else to brag about on the team next year! Go Navy! Tom.” Glad you and Bob connected for the game! I hope to see you and Bob at our 55th class reunion this fall!
Bob, MIDN Texca, and Tom prior to Navy bowl game
Cris Farley chimed in with this note: M ”I was pleasantly surprised this past October when I got an email from Jon Perry, 62 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
’71 banner at Army-Navy basketball game
Sadly, six classmates have passed away since the last column. Michael McGrath Duran, Sr., died on September 5, 2022. He attended the Naval Academy entering with the now 3rd Company and left at the end of our first semester. Bruce Towne passed away December 11th in Colchester, VT after a 22-year battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Bruce was a member of the 19th Company and since he excelled academically was easily selected into the Nuclear Power Program, achieving the distinction of being the first Foreign Affairs major ever selected for that program. He proudly served on the USS John Adams (SSBN-620). After leaving the Navy, he attended Champlain College in Burlington, VT and began his career as a Certified Public Accountant. Bruce’s full obituary is this issue of Shipmate Last Call. Henry “Buck” Buchanan passed away in Friendswood, TX on 8 September 2025. Buck, (known as Hank after he left USNA) and his wife, Denice, caught the flu and, although she survived, he died about a month later of pneumonia.
Buck left USNA in December 1968 at the end of our first semester youngster year and would have graduated with the 3rd Company. He is survived by his wife, Denice of 55 years. Hank and Denice attended one of our class reunions and classmates were happy to see them. Douglas (Doug) Colin Lockwood was born February 13, 1949 in Mason City, IA. He died of cancer on January 9, 2026 at Saint Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. Doug spent his childhood in Texarkana, AK, graduating from Arkansas High School in 1967. He spent one year at USNA and time at sea, where he determined that was not the life for him. He then joined the Air Force and spent some time in the Philippines determining weather conditions for flights into Vietnam. His first marriage gave him his wonderful son, Kevin. George Perkins passed away this January in Linthicum Heights, MD from complications of Parkinson’s disease. He was 78 years old. George graduated out of 24th Company where he was not only known as “Bubba” but also for his prowess on the soccer field playing in the Brigade Championship game and victory. He was not only the Company Honor rep but also the vice chairman of the Brigade Honor Board. Following graduation, George entered the Surface Navy, retiring as a CDR in 1992. A 21-year veteran, with service in Vietnam, he was diagnosed with heart disease, dementia and Parkinsons which resulted in his becoming a VA 100% disabled Vet due to his exposure to agent orange. He is survived by his widow, Ruth, and their two children and five grandchildren. A celebration of life or other services may be held this spring. Also, the family is planning on cremation and inurnment at Arlington Cemetery. You will be notified when these dates are confirmed. William G. Nielsen, of Glen Allen VA, passed away on January 16, 2026. He was born on April 15, 1948 in New York and he grew up in Rutherford, NJ. Bill attended Bullis Prep before becoming our classmate on 28 June 1967. He was a member of the 6th Company and the chairman of the Honor Board. He was awarded the Brainerd Award for making the greatest contribution to the Honor Concept. Following graduation, Bill entered flight training and was awarded his Wings as a Naval Flight Officer. He received his MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Bill held management positions in a variety of companies (Command Airlines, Philip Morris, Bethlehem Steel, and Capital One) and was an author, with several articles appearing in local Richmond magazines. Survivors include his wife Judie, daughter Robyn, son Christopher, stepdaughters Stephanie and Sarah, sister Kirsten and brother Eric. He was pre-deceased by his
71/72 CLASS NEWS parents and four sisters, Karen, Jane, Jacqueline and Trine. A Celebration of life will be held at Bliley’s Funeral Home, Augusta Avenue, Richmond, at a date to be determined. Too soon, it is time to close. Please keep our classmates and their families in your prayers for good health, healing when needed, safety in travels, and strength to meet every challenge. Today is a gift – life is precious and too short! Love passionately, give, and share your time and blessings generously with others – as we are richly blessed so may we richly bless others. Our leadership at home, in our social circles, and in daily routines is vital to maintaining our nation’s constitutional republic. Our training to think critically and to analyze problems is necessary to solve our nation’s challenges. 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!
’72
Life Membership: 59% Donor Participation: 00.69% Pres: CAPT Rick Rubel, USN (Ret.) e: rrubel9@gmail.com Sec’y: CDR Rich Robison, USN (Ret.) 3126 North Greystone Dr., Morgantown, WV 26508 e: Scribe72@comcast.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9419/feed Website: http://1972.myusna.com Class Listserv: TheGouge-USNA72@googlegroups.com Facebook: USNA Class of 1972Ω
Greetings, Classmates! We have a few items in this month’s mailbag, so here we go. As has become the norm, the Cost of Freedom Weekend held during last December’s Army-Navy Game was a huge success. Bob Madden and Ron Stowell once again led a team composed of ’72ers and others who devote considerable time and effort to recognize those who have served our country, and the families that supported them. Bob sends along the following: M “27th Company classmates Gary Coyle, Karen (Fosse) Kline, Paul Huck, Bob Madden, and Ron Stowell proudly hosted its 19th Annual Cost of Freedom weekend at Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City, MD this past December 12-14 welcoming 18 honored guest families, 12 of which were Army combat wounded veterans, 4 Marine Corps/Navy, and two Gold Star families. For many this was a true bucket list experience, matching up Navy (9-2) and Army (6-5) on Saturday for the Commander-in-Chief trophy, ending in dramatic fashion, with Navy edging out Army 17-16 to retain the coveted trophy. Our guests enjoyed a Veteran All-Star lineup of Patriots on both Friday and Saturday evenings. The 86 guests, including 17 children, transformed
from strangers into “family,” united by shared sacrifice and gratitude. The weekend theme was “Choosing Courage.” It began with a cocktail reception followed by open toasting to “God, family, and country, Navy football” with Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and first responders honoring all who serve. James “Pipes” Pritchard set the tone with stirring Highland bagpipes leading into festivities that honored our flag – National Anthem sung by honored guest spouse Angela Harmon, pledge of allegiance led by our future cyberspace warriors, and “Ragged Old Flag” performed by Rob Madden ’97. The colors posted by USAFJROTC Color Guard, included a special flag folding ceremony, leading the way to an evening of reflection, purpose, and appreciation. We were blessed to have two American patriots as our guest speakers. Major Brian Chontosh, USMC (Ret.), Navy Cross recipient, and Naval Academy company officer, reminded us “courage is not something you think about ahead of time. It is of the moment.” CSM Gary Littrell, USA (Ret), Medal of Honor recipient spoke on “integrity,” his favorite word, and guided us along the path to courage, commitment, sacrifice, citizenship, and patriotism. His wife, Suzanne Littrell, a Hollywood stunt actress, and All-American Surfer encouraged the women to be fearless in breaking barriers. Marianna Winchester, mother of 1st Lt Ron Winchester, USMC, KIA 9/3/2004 shared the profound journey of a Gold Star parent, describing our COF weekends together as unmatched therapy. “A soldier is not gone until he is forgotten. We must never forget.” One could sense the bonds of love and respect amongst all that attended, knowing all had given some, and some had given all. Our annual “Candle Ceremony” paired veterans with children, symbolizing the handoff of values – honor, courage, commitment – to the next generation. “The Army-Navy game brought spirited rivalry, especially for the veteran families present. Yet despite the narrow loss, all stood shoulder to shoulder in respect and unity. We were blessed again with a sheriff escort to and from the game and a Travis Manion Foundation VIP tailgate. Some guests volunteered to stay back and watch the game in our warm and cozy hospitality suite, hosted by Cindy Coyle, spouse of Gary Coyle ’72. Securing tickets for all yet remains a major hurdle, yet through the generosity of the Baltimore Ravens and USNA classmates, 68 tickets were obtained ensuring the tradition continues. “Saturday night was marked by solemn reflection and celebration. Brigadier General David “Angus” Walsh, USMC delivered an inspiring message, “Courage is a Choice,” while CWO5 Phyllis Wilson, USA (Ret.) honored the vital role of women in the military—as service members, spouses, and caregivers. In recognition of their perseverance as often “unsung heroes,” L’Oréal presented each with a special gift of gratitude.
“No Cost of Freedom weekend would be complete without the stirring words of our poet laureate, Rodney Harmon, USA. Taking on the voice of a fallen Navy SEAL, he recounted the courageous act that claimed his life. His performance drew us into the moment— walking us through fear, sacrifice, and brotherhood—leaving the room deeply moved and reflective of the past, present, and future “The weekend concluded with warmth and fellowship. Under the leadership of Cindy Madden and Patty Huck, the Class of ’72 spouses hosted a heartfelt Sunday breakfast in the hospitality suite. Guests were treated to home-baked goods, healthy offerings, and plenty of hugs, sending everyone off with nourishment and love. Our mission is clear: “to honor and inspire the brave servicemen, servicewomen, and their families affected by combat by showing them deep appreciation and unwavering encouragement.” It is rooted in enduring values - honor, courage, commitment, respect, sacrifice, and valor – principles we strive to instill within our communities and pass on to future generations. We affirm a solemn truth, the sacrifices of our Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and Airmen must never be forgotten – and freedom is not free. “The 19th Annual Cost of Freedom Weekend was more than an event – it was a living tribute to courage, integrity, and remembrance. Bonds of love and respect were strengthened, reminding all that while all gave some, some gave all, none will ever be forgotten.” Impressive. As an aside, Bob confides that, “…every year I believe is our last, as we get a wee bit older and slower, but I believe we have some folks in later classes that would love us to transition what we do to them - the Lord only knows that perfect timing, but so many have been blessed, especially those that volunteer to make it a weekend to remember.” Stuff like this doesn’t just happen unless you really believe in the cause. Thanks to all of you.
Rob Madden ’97, Ron Stowell, Gary Lettrell (Medal of Honor recipient), Suzanne Lettrell, Bob and Cindy Madden
MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 63
72/73 CLASS NEWS
Ron Stowell ’72, Brian Chontosh (Navy Cross recipient and 8th Company Officer back in the day) and Bob Madden presenting a football signed by the Navy football team
29th Company Update. Dave Hogen passed along that Walt Manning’s interment at Arlington National Cemetery back on January 5th was well-attended by the following 29ers: Denise and Bob Perry, Susan and Jim Branson, Trice and John Harrold, Tom Goodwin, Ed Perrott, Bob Pell, Jerry Cameron, Steve Landrum and Dave Hogen. Also showing up were classmates Fred Cohrs and Sharon and Bill Moffatt. Walt’s daughters, Wendy and Elizabeth, hosted Company-mates at a luncheon afterwards, where stories were told and pictures shared.
’72ers at Walt Manning’s interment
Jeff Beard (jeffreyb72@icloud.com), who is the Chair of our Class of 1972 Legacy Fund, provides the following overview of what we’re trying to accomplish through this latest (and final) fundraising initiative:
M “By now, many of you will be aware that the Class of 1972 has launched what we intend to be our final major class fundraising effort—the Class of ’72 Legacy Fund. The goal is to create a $10 million endowment-style fund through cash gifts and pledges, with a stretch goal of $15 million over time through Planned Giving. The purpose is straightforward: to establish a lasting, sustainable legacy that supports the United States Naval Academy well beyond our own lifetimes. “The principal focus of the Legacy Fund will be Leadership, Ethics, and Character, reflecting priorities our class has consistently supported for more than two decades. Smaller allocations will support Athletic Excellence and the Superintendent’s mission of developing midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically into leaders of character. “We have set a near-term objective of reaching $6.25 million by July 2027, which will allow the Fund to begin distributions in 2028. While we are still early in the campaign, we are encouraged by the progress made during the quiet phase and by the level of engagement already underway. “Our aim is to exceed the participation level achieved during our 50th Reunion campaign, when more than half of our class took part—an effort that set a record among USNA class campaigns. We will continue communicating through periodic e-Gouges, our class website, and direct outreach by mail and phone, with the support of our company representatives. “What we are attempting is new for USNA: a post-50th reunion class initiative built around a long-term, endowment mindset. If successful, we hope it serves as a model for other classes to follow, contributing to a stronger and more sustainable future for the Academy. “Time has a way of clarifying what matters. The legacy we leave behind—individually and as a class—is one of the few things we truly control. This campaign is our opportunity to finish strong, in a way that reflects the values we learned, lived, and passed on. “More information will follow as the campaign unfolds.”
Closing Ranks. Ron Staton (20th Co.) passed away on 4 January 2026. A memorial service is being planned for sometime thisspring. Rick Williamson (28th Co.) passed away on 16 January 2026 in Richmond, VA where he had been in hospice care. As of this writing, we understand that arrangements are being made for him to be cremated with Naval burial at sea, and that memorial service plans are pending. As always, we will pass along any updates as we receive them through The Gouge for the benefit of those who may wish to attend these services, provide donations or leave messages on sponsored remembrance pages. The Class extends its deepest sympathies to the families of our deceased Classmates. A brief reminder about the Health Webinars sponsored by our Class. Mike Stocks has been coordinating this effort and, if you haven’t attended one of them, I would encourage you to do so. Classmates, spouses and caregivers are all invited. Each webinar covers a different topic (the theme of the March webinar is Prostate Health). The upcoming 2026 Health Webinar schedule is being adjusted for the second Tuesday of March, June, September and November. Each Webinar link can be accessed by logging in to 1972.myusna.com then selecting the Health Support tab, and you will find the Zoom link for the upcoming Webinar. On this same page you can find recordings of our previous Health Webinars. Zoom links are also promulgated by e-mail through The Gouge. Hope your springtime is warming up nicely as we’re all ready to climb out of the deep freeze. Stay in touch! More to come. D. O. Tried and True with ’72
’73
Life Membership: 68% Donor Participation: 00.40% Pres: Paul J. Ryan e: paulryan73@gmail.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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9420/feed
Patty Huck, Cindy Coyle, Michelle Goodwin, Bix Goodwin, Karen Fosse Kline, Cindy Madden, Bob Madden, Ron Stowell, Steve Kline, Gary Coyle, Sharon Calcaterra, Frank Calcaterra and Paul Huck 64 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Hello classmates, We have survived another Dark Ages! We are close to Spring and hopefully warm weather as you read this. The mail buoy is riding high in the water so send those pictures of Dark Ages celebrations and other events. I had to ask for extra space because I have so much info to pass on so, let’s get to it. My first item is Congratulations to Navy football for their victory in the Liberty Bowl! BZ! My next is from Jim Ewing. M “In late August 2025, as the leaves in the West Virginia mountains were just beginning
73/73 CLASS NEWS Mike Rader and Dennis O’Meara. This “come around” took place at the home of Bart’s son. Sam Bartron is a captain with Delta Airlines. The group was well balanced with two 1110s, (Degs and Vicenzo) two 1310s (Shifty & Bart) and the odd 1120 (Raids). We hope to get together in 2026 with all of 31st Company.
’73: Gathering of 73 in West Virginia
to take on a slight tinge of gold, some sixty plus ’73 classmates, wives, friends, and family members gathered at the Cacapon State Park and Resort near Berkeley Springs, WV to share time, great food, and fellowship. We were there for five sunny days of leisurely time in the beautiful Lodge, cabins, and the outdoors with a very loose agenda so that we could focus on being with each other, catching up on old times, and otherwise enjoying each other’s company. The gathering was a direct result of then Governor, now Senator, Jim Justice’s gracious invitation for all veterans to come visit West Virginia’s State Parks at deeply discounted prices and for that we thank Senator Justice greatly. All of us have been through so much together over these past 50 plus years, and we learned how excellent it is to relax, chat, and listen to each other as we told our stories of how our careers unfolded, how our kids are doing, the many obligatory sea stories, and laughs from our Naval Academy days. On one of the days, we enjoyed several presentations, including how to help classmates with VA matters, the need to “Finish Strong” from Jim Robbins, author of “Widowers Walk,” the art of Iconography from Nancy and Jim Ewing, “Whole Body Health Nutrition” from Jay “Doc” Hemberger, and an inspiring talk from Chaplain Maurice “Mo” Buford from the Naval Academy. Tim Ellis gave a very interesting history of five patriotic songs and led us in a very moving “Sing-along”! Dave Stacy arranged a competitive golf tournament on the beautiful Trent Jones course at the park so we could show off our proficiency or lack thereof on the links. Every night, the excellent restaurant downstairs at the lodge served dinner, and folks showed up randomly, shared a meal, and engaged in great conversations around the tables. On the last night, at Bill Short’s cabin, grill-meister Bob Shary presided over an impromptu cookout, where he turned out his classic “hots and hams” done to perfection for all of us. One of the exceptional blessings of the week was the chance for our wives to share their stories and thus gain deeper insights into what a wonderful group of people the Naval Academy turned out in our case and what special ladies we had chosen for our wives. Two of our attendees are members of the Parkinsons Zoom Group that our class offers twice a month, and many of the attendees were part of the support group on those
calls. Other attendees were members of our bi-weekly ’73 Power Prayer Group Zoom and our ’73 Sunday Night Bible Study Group sessions. Maybe we will have the chance to do it again, in this fourth quarter of life; we certainly hope so, but it is fair to say that all of us are very thankful for the time we spent together at Cacapon. If we do it again, we hope you will join us! Go Navy, beat Army” I exchanged some emails with David Hoagland and received the following update. M “I’m fully retired and have been for some time. After 5 yrs in the Marines, I left for 30+ years in the Defense Industry. Started with Computer Sciences Corp in San Diego, then to Hughes Aircraft Co. in SD, Fullerton and Arlington, VA. I was part of the Transition Team when Raytheon, Hughes, Texas Inst. and E-Systems merged in the late ’90’s. I retired from Raytheon in 2006, took a year off, and did consulting work for several years for BAE Systems in Rockville, MD. I had a great career in program management, business development, and strategic planning and finished my career as the general manager of the Raytheon Business Unit in Norfolk, VA taking care of the Navy and Marines in Norfolk, Charleston, San Diego, Long Beach and Oxnard. Deborah and I have been married for 52+ years and have moved too many times to count and finally built a house in Williamsburg, VA where we have lived for the past 10 years. We have now lived longer in Virginia that we did in California which we are very happy about.” David, thanks for the update. Bob Bartron sent the following. M “On 11 December 1972, members of the Class of 1973, in 31st Company gathered in Room 6145 of Bancroft Hall to share opinions about the news of the day. These “bull sessions” that normally commenced around 1920 and went to about 2000 most evenings (or often times later—much later) solved nearly all the world’s problems—if only the world leaders would listen to the informed and passionate opinions of these college seniors! Fifty-three years later, on 11 December 2025, that bull session was re-convened in Newnan, GA. The five Mids who all shared opinions on the current and future state of the U.S. Navy were: Vince Mocini, Bob Bartron, Bill York,
31st Company mini reunion. Left to right Vince (“Vincenzo”) Mocini, Bob (“Babblin’ Bart”) Bartron, Bill (“Shifty”) York, Mike (“Raids”) Rader, and Dennis (“Degs”) O’Meara.
I asked Bob for an update on what he has been doing and received M “Our three older grandchildren (ages 15, 13, 11) now live 30-minutes from our house in Sacramento, CA. (Prior to their move locally, they were located in San Digo, the DC area and Guam as Navy juniors. My daughter married a ’03 USNA grad (helo pilot) and he just retired two years ago and moved the family near us). So, we have been spoiled by having them close enough to see them most weekends—especially during the summers when they enjoy the large pool my father-in-law installed in 1962 on the property we bought and moved into when I fully retired in 2010. My full-time employment since then has been primarily being a cranky patient. I have almost bi-weekly visits with at least one of these multiple specialists—cardiologist, endocrinologist, neurologist, dermatologist, podiatrist, rheumatologist, and my least favorite —urologist! My primary causes for the many, many doc visits (according to the VA) are “payback” for the one-day beach party in Danang we enjoyed during Youngster cruise. [I poohed-poohed the idea that most of my serious, long-term afflictions can be attributed to exposure to Agent Orange—but when you consider that approximately 80% of our classmates who have Parkingson’s Disease went on the Westpac youngster cruise, I have come to think that a major contributing cause is the cruise we took.] The good news is that I was removed from the waiting list to get a kidney transplant because the effectiveness of my kidneys has improved from 12% to 65%. I lost over 50 pounds and when you drop that much weight, the kidneys get a break. The bad news is that I lost the weight as a result of getting a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma—called Sezary Syndrome which I am now undergoing my third round of chemo to stay ahead of this form of cancer. Our military service may have contributed to many of my health challenges; but our MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 65
73/74 CLASS NEWS nation has stepped up to give me the best chances at clearing these hurdles. The charges the chemical companies want paid for the chemo sessions are easily over $300K per month. But Medicare limits what they can charge to around $40K per month. That limits my share of this amount to about $10K pe month. Yet, I haven’t paid a dime—Tricare-for-Life covers all the cost to me. Of course, my biggest daily challenge is the progressing Parkingson’s. Our classmates have been the greatest help in dealing with the ever-increasing limitations. Every two weeks, we have between 15 to 20 classmates taking an hour of their day to encourage those of us who daily deal with PD. Less than half the shipmates on the meeting roster have PD—it is so great to have the honest support of these men who go out of their way to encourage us as we slip down the slide of disability. I pray to God daily for our classmates who always seek out those in need and get involved in filling those needs. Knowing that the Lord is steadfastly being petitioned by those on the Prayer Team as well, gives me appreciation for the intangibles we acquired as we endured our four-years by the Severn. —Bart
the state of Michigan. He was preceded in death by his wife, LuAnn (Younkin) Bennett. He is survived by his former wife, Beverly (Scher) Bennett; his sister, Toni Bennett (and her three children); his brother, John Bennett (and his four children). He is also survived by his children - Teresa Jones (and her three children), Ryan Bennett (and his two children), Heather Rance (and her four children), Carly Holmes, Carina Bennett, and Cylea Bennett (and her two children). Memorial gifts can be made to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association in his honor. Look for additional information on our classmates lives in “Last Call” and please keep our classmates families in your thoughts and prayers. The class is planning on having a 55th reunion. A survey was sent asking for input on when, where and what folks would like. About 20 emails bounced as undeliverable so again I encourage you to update your contact info and profile on the Alumni website. Thanks. You are up to date. Please pass on any news you want to share. As always, Go Navy and Semper Fi! General Non Sibi,
Bart, well said . I received several items of sad news. James Theodore (Ted) Dohse, 34th Co, passed away unexpectedly on 1 December 2025, at his home in Orlando, FL. After graduation Ted went nuclear power submarines He is survived by sister Virginia (Kyle) Kagey of Greenville, OH, and brothers Fred (Deidre) of Asheville, NC, Mike (Linda) of Spartanburg, SC, and Chris of Lansing, MI. Gregory “Greg” Joseph Rose, 32nd Co, passed away on 16 December 2025. After graduation he became a naval aviator, flying F-4 Phantoms and F-14 Tomcats. Following his military service, Greg was a test pilot with Northrop Grumman before becoming a pilot with Delta Air Lines. Greg is survived by his wife, Patricia; his son and daughter-in-law, Commander Scott Rose and Commander Kallie Rose; his grandchildren, Liam and Beth; and his brother, Gary. Marc “Harry” Harrison, 7th Co, has passed away. I will pass on any additional info I receive. I reported the death of Vaugh Bennett in my last article. I received the following additional information. Vaughn passed away on 11 November 2025. He went helos out of the Academy. After his military service, he continued his career as a project manager for
’74
66 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Life Membership: 60% Donor Participation: 00.27% Pres: John Yaeger Corr Sec’y: Roger McEvoy p: 559-905-7362; e: usna745677@hotmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9421/feed
Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried, Grapple them unto thy soul with hoops of steel: Happy New Year! I know you are all enjoying the beginnings of spring as you read this issue of Shipmate. But sitting here on January 20th, wrapped in my electric throw blanket to fight the 37-degree Florida weather, still preoccupied with this past football season, most all of 2026 lies ahead. True to form, I can’t let the past five months on the gridiron pass without making comment. This was one of Navy’s finest football seasons of all time. GO NAVY! More importantly was the way the members of this team represented USNA. Every one of us should be proud. Clearly, our defensive secondary was the weak link in the chain through most of the season. But the way they improved, and their performance in the final four games was inspiring. Looking ahead, defense will be our strongest suit in 2026. On offense, replacing the likes of Blake Horvath, Eli Heidenreich, Alex Tecza and Brandon Chatman is not an easy task. But with Braxton Woodson taking over with more speed and a stronger arm than Horvath, we have a great start. This is the finest “developmental” program in the nation,
and if Coach Newberry and company can develop ball carriers and pass catchers to step into those roles, we’ll be very strong again next year. And look for our tight ends to carry more of the offense load in 2026. This is where Coach Newberry’s recruiting program really starts to deliver. OK, focusing on USNA ’74, I have a double input from Bruce Lowman (16th Co.). Bruce has been the coordinator/organizer of The Monthly Dose of ’74 in the San Diego area for the past several years, ever since Stu Cvrk (10th Co.) move to some northern wasteland in a place called North Dakota. I credit Stu for the making The Monthly Dose of ’74 a can’t miss event in San Diego. And I credit Bruce for not letting it sag with Stu’s departure. December attendees at Shakespeare’s Pub included Gary Graupmann (6th Co.), Steve Busch (30th Co.), Mike Turner (32nd Co.), Dan’l Steward (28th Co.), Jerry Stenovec (5th Co.), Dick Costigan (33rd Co.), Dan Donoghue (4th Co.), Gary Leupold (4th Co.), Al Lerchbacker (20th Co.), Dick Plush (32nd Co.) and Bruce. Steve Busch had recently taken a fishing trip to Mexico, and presented all attendees with vacuum-sealed packages of Oho and Bluefin tuna. More importantly, they took a vote, and properly predicted another Navy victory over Army, with a unanimous vote of 11-0. There was also some discussion about Navy Seals surfing on submarines. Evidently, there were some skeptics in attendance, so Dan’l Steward sent everyone the following photo, saying it nearly cost him his career, and no, he was not in the photo. Tim Rastock (19th Co.) was copied on Dan’l’s e-mail and felt duty-bound to represent surface line with the second photo. Bob Foltyn (34th Co.) couldn’t let Marine Air go un-noticed, and sent in the third photo of some of his squadron mates. That was a great Monthly Doe of’74!
Seal Surfing on Sub
USNA.COM Stay Connected and Informed.
74/74 CLASS NEWS
Surf US Line - Mighty Fine
’74: Marsh Nadel at NYSE
Charlie and Linda
Peace On Earth through Air Superiority
Then again, just 6 days ago (1-14-26), the group was re-convened with Evan Rasmussen (26th Co.), Gary Leupold, Al Lerchbacker, Gary Graupmann, Rod Smith (22nd Co.), Dick Costigan, Steve Busch and Bruce present. Topics discussed were Rod Smith’s father’s (USNA ’40) journey on a Viking ship from a Kirk Douglas movie when it experienced troubles in the North Atlantic, and the fact that Al Lerchbacker has nearly completed his doctorate degree. Clearly, a distinguished group. Speaking of distinguished groups, our very own Marshall Nadel (2nd Co.), as a member of the USO Board of Directors, recently paid a visit to the NYSE. A rare honor, indeed. Marsh’s company mate, Dave Patillo, sent in the story with the following photos.
Marsh Nadel at NYSE
On a sadder note, Craig Bennett Hairston passed away unexpectedly on 17 November 2025. Craig did not graduate with us, but as a member of 1st Co. plebe year, his company mates graduated from 9th Co. It is with deep sadness that I report the passing of LtCol Charles Robinson (1st Co.), USMC. There were certain classmates that seemed bigger than life. For me, Charlie was one of those guys. An extraordinary athlete, I always saw him as the face of our football defensive unit. Charlie always presented the image of a leader that said, “I am in charge, I got it covered.”, He never had to say it, it was just understood. So, his USMC selection was no surprise. I always looked forward to seeing Charlie at reunions, because his professionalism and leadership were always so evident. One of the real heroes of our class. Charlie contracted pancreatic cancer and was gone in a few short weeks. I was certainly not in Charlie’s inner circle, but I’m sure the men of 1st Company, and his teammates from the football team will feel his loss daily.
When I reflect on the many faces of our class, I’m reminded just how special a group of people I was fortunate enough to call classmates. From the beginning, my guidelines for this column have been simple and consistent: to inform, to unite, and—every now and then—to inspire the Class of ’74. Over the years, many among us have gone on to achieve national recognition, and that has always been a source of pride for me. But for every Bert Calland, Rod Savage, Mike Miller, JJ Quinn, and others whose accomplishments are widely known, there are dozens more classmates who have built remarkable lives—successful careers, strong families, and meaningful service to their friends, their communities and their country—quietly and without fanfare. In doing so, they have lived out the very best ideals of the Total Man Concept. There’s a paradox that comes with belonging to a group like USNA ’74. In most settings, being “average” is often mistaken for being mediocre. But in a class like ours, the average is anything but. The collective standard is extraordinarily high, and that means many exceptional lives can go largely unnoticed simply because they are surrounded by peers who are equally accomplished. MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 67
74/75 CLASS NEWS With that thought in mind—and with deep appreciation for the lifelong relationships forged since our midshipman days—I’d like to introduce a new tradition for this column. When space permits after covering current class news, I plan to include a brief profile of a classmate who exemplifies success in career, family, community and friendship. These are men of character and achievement whose stories deserve to be told, even if they’ve never sought the spotlight. I ask your help in this effort. If someone in your circle fits your definition of the Whole Man—not just as a midshipman, but across a lifetime—please send along the relevant information. I’ll maintain a list and feature these profiles in Shipmate whenever space allows. Our class is defined not only by a few wellknown names, but by the steady excellence of many. It’s time we tell more of those stories. As a starter, I would like to profile a classmate that I first met in the first week of plebe summer, and much more recently has become a valued friend and golfing partner: M PERSONAL PROFLE: Paul “Pops” Hallowell (24th Co.), Captain, USN (Ret.) Paul and I were both in “Golf” Company (19th, 20th and 21st platoons) plebe summer. It was ironic that when I moved to The Villages here in Florida, and attended my first Blue & Gold Alumni dinner, that Paul was one of the first to greet me. Since then, Paul, his wife Elma and I have become regular golfing partners. Through the time we have spent together I have gained a deep appreciation for Paul and Elma as parents and grandparents, as their family is clearly the center of their universe. I have also learned of his career in some detail, of which I am profoundly impressed. As a P-3 TACCO, Pops did three tours out of Moffett Field in VP-40, VP-48 (Dept. Head Tour), and VP-9 (X.O. and C.O. tour). As C.O. of VP-9, his squadron won the Battle “E” over 11 other Patrol Squadrons. He served as Operations Admin. Officer of USS Nimitz, CVN-68, where he qualified as Fleet Officer of the Deck. He was assigned to Task Force 72 in Japan as Ops Officer, directing all Western Pacific and Indian Ocean ASW and Recon operations for 7th Fleet. Along the way he attended PG School in Monterey (MS-Computer Science) and the National War College (MS-National Security Strategy). He was also assigned to the office of SecDef for Drug Enforcement Policy as Program and Budget Officer and as Dir., DoD Counter Drug Plans and Support. He finished his career as the Commanding Officer, Joint Maritime Facility, St. Mawgan, England directing/coordinating all US and British ASW activities in the North Atlantic. I’m sure you will agree that this is a career that people in the civilian world cannot fully appreciate. The level of responsibility, the dollar value of resources and the human resources that he commanded are immense. A man of integrity, dedication, loyalty and commitment. I believe this is what the whole 68 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
man concept was intended to represent when it was conceived. Yet, he is just another USNA ’74 member that did his job, supported his family, and somewhere along the line, learned enough golf to beat me on a regular basis. Pops Hallowell. Just one of the guys. I’m sure you all know classmates with a similar story. Let me know about it, so we can let the entire class know about it too. Roger
’75
Life Membership: 61% Donor Participation: 00.30% 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
Once a year, the Armed Services YMCA holds a Five Star Luncheon in Virginia Beach to honor those military families (one from each service) that go out of their way to volunteer their services to their church or communities. USNA Class of 1975 sponsors a table every year. In the photo you will find Mike Groothausen, Father Dave Penman, Dave Pruett, Doug Schlaefer, Dave Duffie and Mike Zeiders. Clay Absher skated out of the photo op. Thanks to Duff for the note.
myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9422/feed Website: http//1975.usnaclasses.net/
Dear ’mates, This column is will not reach your mail boxes (or inboxes) until Spring is upon us. Nevertheless, it’s my first opportunity to celebrate the 2025 Navy football program in our class column. Personally, I enjoyed Navy football more this past season than ever before. Record-tying eleven wins, victories over Air Force and Army to lock up the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy (again), bowl win over a Power 4 team (again). Ranked #23 in the country. Thank you Coach Newberry and the entire program! If you would like to re-live our terrific 50th Reunion, check out the photos at this link: https://hamiltonphotography.shootproof.com/ gallery/28653956. Thanks to the generosity of J. Van Rose, who sponsored the photographer, all the photos are available to be downloaded… FOR FREE! Steve Hubbard and Chris Cikanovich represented the class at the graduation of our last links in the chain. The final six members of the class 2025 (and-a-half) exchanged their old midshipman covers for brand new officer gear in a December ceremony. Family, friends, administration, and faculty gathered in Mahan Hall to celebrate the persistence of these new O-1s. I suppose this is might be the end of the prime reserved parking spaces for Chick and Hubbs.
’75: Graduation of 25 1/2
Dave Frost sent a note recognized 75’s undefeated Sloop crew of San Diego. AJ Ronacher, Tim Naple and Tom Gadzala man the sailboat with the able-bodied help of Frosty as the bow hook. Their prowess was undoubtedly rooted to our SAILING 101 training from Plebe Summer. You remember — “Never step in a bite” and duck when the skipper yells, “JIBE HO, Helm’s to Lee.”
75/75 CLASS NEWS of their plebe summer number. Naturally, the result was a really tight-knit company of Flower Children. The article’s author does a very nice job of capturing the camaraderie of Club 34. Your scribe’s favorite quote: “Between the humorous bouts of trash talk (and believe me, these guys can sling it) what stands out most is the kindness and admiration expressed toward and about one another.”
In November, the Wrightsville Beach (NC) Magazine published a fantastic photo essay covering the annual reunion of “Club 34.” Kurt Huff hosted the 2025 event in September. Although every company lost a high number of those young men who raised their hands on I-Day, 34th Company only retained 50%
On 20-21 February, our classmates were scheduled to attempt to set several records in indoor rowing. GOATs Row for Charity is a 24-hour continuous rowing endurance event to be held at the Annapolis Rowing Club. Inspired by the Gulf to Goat Charity Bike ride, our participants (some of them already heroes of G2G) hope to establish two World Indoor Rowing Records for a 70+ year old team of men — Longest Continual Row and Number of Meters Rowed in a 24-Hour Period.
Indoor rowing is a versatile exercise for fitness, endurance, and strength training, offering a full-body workout that’s easy on the joints. It is safe, available at most gyms and a healthy exercise choice for anyone and everyone. It’s also intensely challenging, with indoor rowing competitions held annually across the nation and around the world. Concept 2, manufacturer of rowing ergometers, sponsors indoor rowing competitions and maintains world endurance records. In the decades-long history of indoor rowing record keeping, no group of men over the age of 70 has attempted a continual row or established a record of meters rowed in a 24-hour period. Chuck Geyer and Dave Frost promise me a complete update and debrief for the May - June Shipmate. If you prefer electronic reading over holding a physical magazine, you can get your Shipmate on line. You get it a few weeks earlier and you don’t have a stack of old magazines to recycle. Personally, I will always want to grab the hard copy, but it’s nice to have the choice. On the other hand, I find that I really enjoy the Daily Shipmates that arrive by email every week day. Sign up for the either or both on MYUSNA. com. Type to you again in a couple of months! 75 Sir! Larry
Dreaming of new destinations in 2027!
Open the enclosed Travel Catalog to see what trips we are offering in 2027. Don’t forget these 2026 excursions:
BORDEAUX AND BASQUE COUNTRY 17-27 SEPTEMBER
GREECE: ATHENS AND KALAMATA 2-11 OCTOBER
MARCH-APRIL 2026• SHIPMATE 69
76/76 CLASS NEWS
’76
Life Membership: 59% Donor Participation: 4.03% 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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9423/feed
Jim Grayson, Dan Galik, Tim Farell, and Peter Varsanyi at the Beat Army Tailgate in Baltimore (not pictured was John Brownell)
Website: http//usna76.wordpress.com/
Due to the high volume of correspondence received from classmates, it was necessary to make careful selections and condense the information to adhere to the word count limit. Accordingly, the following updates are provided: Joe McGowan (10th Co) experienced Cajun cuisine late last year: M The best Cajun party of the year is the Great Boucherie of Upper Pine Island, in Elton, LA. This year it was also “where two or three may meet” featuring Tom Nagelin ’74, Joe McGowan ’76 and Joe Mastin ’74. Everyone except the pig had a great time.
Tom Nagelin, Joe McGowan, and Joe Mastin “getting the pig” (à la John Malkovich’s character in the 2010 movie, RED)
Mike Witt, Derwood Curtis, Bob Jackson, Mike Yeager, Dick Feckler, and Tim Farrell at the Liberty Bowl Brigade of Midshipmen tailgate
Dennis Herrington (5th Co) reports from Oklahoma: M In October, fellow 5th Company mates, Mike Prendergast and Leroy Sparr, came to visit me in Oklahoma! Had a great time just telling old stories and visiting. Took in some horse races, did some tourist things by visiting the Will Rogers Museum and took Leroy to get fitted for a cowboy hat! The pictures of us at the Will Rogers museum. Another picture of us at the racetrack with my son-in-law, Ramiro Haro, who had just won the race (my daughter is a vet at the racetrack). Finally, Mike is standing in front of the mare, Hello Mischief, a quarter horse of ours in foal who is the half-sister of Sovereignty, the Kentucky Derby and Belmont winner. Hoping for a healthy winning baby! See you all at the 50th!
Here are a few Navy Football tailgate pictures for your viewing pleasure:
SoCal contingent at the Navy-USF game consisting of Bryan Dolan, Chris Ames, Debra and Dan O’Brien, Bev and Stu Hinrichs, and Chip and Pam McFarland
Dennis Herrington with Leroy Sparr and Mike Prendergast and his son-in-law, Ramiro Haro. 70 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Exciting news from Milt Mays (9th Co) - Milt has just released a new novel, Policy Change, now available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback, and audiobook formats. This engaging story follows a Naval Academy graduate and Marine as the main character, weaving in themes of service, honor, and adventure that will resonate with many of our classmates. Gary Greenfield (36th Co) and his daughter, Brittany, had a terrific time at the Army-Navy game: M Another exciting Army-Navy game. Brittany and I were there. A couple of very good friends who live in the area had never been, so we made a commitment months ago to attend. While the game itself was exciting, there were some great moments associated with it. The Thursday night before the game we were invited to a stadium visit. I could not make it, but Brittany could. Quite honestly did not expect much, but it was an intimate tour of the stadium, including the locker rooms. The uniform suppliers, Under Armour® and Nike, Inc. take care of outfitting the locker rooms. As home team, Navy had the Ravens locker room. Each locker was complete with the Navy player’s uniform and, of course, spirited accompaniments. The lockers were strictly off limits to touch, but they had a table to admire with gear that could be handled. On it was a helmet and Brittany (with permission) tried on the helmet. No others did and the experience was as great as she expected. As a follow-up Friday morning there was a visit with Kevin Plank, the CEO and found of Under Armour, at HQ, which I could make. If you think this is just a commercial opportunity for them, you would be wrong. He cares about Navy and of course, is quite competitive with Army’s supplier Nike. He was electrifying and we had an opportunity to meet the designers of the uniform, both artistic and for the materials. They have unbelievable attention to detail for what they incorporate into the uniforms. Benjamin Armstrong, an associate professor at USNA and Director of the US Naval Academy Museum, was consulted and noted that he was for the most part verifying what they had already researched. The key logo for this year’s uniform was something they had seen on the USS Constitution and had seen in Bancroft. I am on the Board of Advisors for the Constitution and, like you, spent four years at Bancroft and don’t remember ever seeing that symbol. That is their attention to detail. For materials, they frequently use Navy to introduce new fabrics for the uniform, which they did this year. I had a chance to stand next to a mannequin they modeled on me (right!) with this year’s uniform. Curious what they are working on for next year – it is mostly in the box - they are already imagining the 2027 uniform! While there we had a chance to visit their innovation lab. I will keep it short. It was amazing – they talked about the technical innovations in fabrics and design which make our lives
76/76 CLASS NEWS him. Please keep Carol, Dale’s beloved wife, and his family in your prayers.
Dale Meyer’s 2nd Company Classmates, Hugh Neighbour, Mark Uhron, Chris Handley and Joe Paquette attended Dale’s funeral
Luke Memminger (10th Co) was ordained to the Priesthood of the Anglican Church, Gulf Atlantic Diocese, in Fleming Island, FL on June 11, 2025. Attending were good friends from USNA and our Lightweight Crew team ’75 and ’76! (Gary Lundeen ’75, Mike Abbott, Steve Hall and Gary Harrell).
’76: Gary Greenfield with daughter, Brittany, the Supe, and Chesty XVI
easier, as well as athletes. These are people with master’s and doctorates in the engineering and the sciences - an impressive display of tomorrow’s athletic wear. Saturday was the game. An exciting game, my birthday, and with family and friends. The Supe, LtGen Mike Borgschulte ‘91 was there and he has quite the personality. His aid was carrying The Helmet. Having played in Army-Navy football games as a linebacker for Navy, he was as engaged and animated as we all were. Brittany and I grabbed a photo – he was all in! We stopped by for warming up and ran into another Marine – Chesty XVI. While the Superintendent had quite the personality, Chesty, who Brittany quickly embraced, was even more feisty. A great game with great reminders of why Army-Navy is special. Steve Nimitz (3rd Co) attended the Liberty Bowl game with classmates: M Six members of the 3rd Co. rallied in Memphis for the Liberty Bowl, barbecue, music, and libations. Despite the steady rain and sinking temperatures during the game, they cheered the team to victory. Those Navy ’76 rain
jackets from the 45th reunion proved worthy against the elements!
Gary Lundeen, Mike Abbott, Steve Hall, and Gary Harrell at Luke Memminger’s Ordination
Wayne Walters (35th Co) provides this update: M Mary & Wayne Walters were visited by Kathy & Johnny Green in October. The Greens traveled from Boise, Idaho where Johnny is happily retired from his practice as a colorectal surgeon and enjoying more time with his grandchildren, gardening, and acting in community theater with Kathy.
Rob Weiss, Joe Sturm, Dennis DeGeus, Paul Wietlisbach, Steve Nimitz and Tim Strange cheered Navy to victory in Memphis at the wet and soggy Liberty Bowl
Joe Paquette (2nd Co) was present at the funeral for Dale Meyer: M On December 17, 2025, Hugh Neighbour, Marivic and Mark Uhron, Beth and Chris Handley, and I attended the funeral of our 2nd Company mate, Dale Meyer. Dale passed away on December 11, 2025, following a courageous battle against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Dale was a man of great integrity, kindness, and was a faithful servant of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing
Wayne & Mary Walters, John & Denise Kruse, and Johnny & Kathy Green enjoying the Herrington Harbour sunset
Steve Barilich (35th Co) reminisces: M 50 years ago, I played in my last ArmyNavy game. Of course, we won but I have very few memories about the game itself other than MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 71
76/78 CLASS NEWS
’76: Navy Football Team members from the Class of ’76 and the Class of ’26 joining together for a photo op as part of the Another Link in the Chain (ALITC) campaign
the coin flip and sitting in the locker room after the game sharing the moment with my Class of ’76 teammates knowing this was the end of a chapter in our lives. But what is permanently etched in my memory is the impact of shared sacrifice with some of the greatest men with whom I have ever been associated. Most of them are pictured below with the Class of ’26 teammates back in August at the beginning of their last season. Those teammates of mine went on to be pilots, Marines, Surface warfare Commanding Officers of Submarines, Squadrons/Groups, Guided missile cruisers, big deck Amphibs, Battalions; with one achieving 3-star Vice Admiral and another Brigadier General. The memories of time together at USNA are what is most important to me. Dave Winters (36th Co) sent out his annual “Winters Tale” which can be found at the following link: https://usna76.wordpress.com/ wp-content/uploads/2026/01/ winters-tale-2025.pdf
Scott, and Laura, as well as the rest of the family. [https://www.usna.com/obituaries?story =10590] “Those we cherish remain with us, for their memory is woven into the fabric of our lives.” On a final note, Kevin Stone has another reminder regarding the 50th Reunion: M The planning for our 50th should be well underway by the time you read this. If you have not received any emails from me since the first of this year you are missing the gouge! Go to www.usna.com and update your email address in your profile. If it is correct make sure you haven’t selected to not receive class emails. The rough outline for the reunion is a Welcome Back reception at the Alumni Center on Thursday evening followed by a jam-packed Friday consisting of a class meeting, memorial service, Supe’s brief, P-Rade, and dinner in Dahlgren Hall. Saturday is all football, with the tailgate in the N* Room and a game against the team still to be determined. Sunday will involve Chapel services and a brunch, perhaps in King Hall. Keep a weather eye out for emails providing more detailed info about how and when to register. Let’s make this the best reunion to date ...
’78
Life Membership: 81% Donor Participation: 5.16% Dave Winters with his son, Ian, and grandson, Atticus
As time passes, it is inevitable that we continue to receive news regarding classmates who have passed away. Recently, we have mourned the loss of two members of our class: Bill Driscoll (5th Co) passed away on 14 OCT 25. Our sincere condolences to his daughters, Elizabeth and Diana, and the remainder of the family. [https://www.quinn-shalz.com/obituaries/ william-bill-driscoll-iii] Dale Meyer (2nd Co) passed away on 11 DEC 25. We extend our deepest sympathies to Dale’s wife, Carol, and their children, Ross, 72 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Pres: Glen Woods e: glenwoods@verizon.net Sec’y: Vince Balderrama 1320 Homewood Ln., Annapolis, MD 21401 e: canoeu78@aol.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9425/feed Website: usna1978.org
We talk about heroes, one of our class has silently and voluntarily acted as one since February of 2022. We are talking about Dennis Otoshi (33rd Co) who has placed his life in harm’s way. As a volunteer with the International Red Cross in Ukraine, Dennis has been saving lives and providing comfort where he can. Many of you have supported his efforts with donations. Those donations have
helped his organization in their mission. For Dennis, it has helped him buy better clotting agents and even some coloring books and small trinkets that he gives to children. While I am not allowed to put in the site to solicit your contributions, you contact our own Greg Baur (33rd Co) for a link, check out our website or drop me a line. He could also use a little email of encouragement. You all remember how a quick pick-me-up went a long way to help us get through a deployment. It is especially so for those who have witnessed the devastation and injury that Dennis has. In his last report Dennis wrote, “Winter seems to have come early, but isn’t that always the case? It is often dark and cold. Mandatory power rationing and unexpected outages caused by Russian attacks. I am alive. In the end, that is what counts the most.” Stay safe, Dennis.
Dennis trying to catch some rest
On a lighter note, Ben Richter (14th Co) sent a photo a while back of a 14th Company football game and tailgate mini reunion in Annapolis. It was a good turnout of companymates and spouses. In the pic you’ll see in the Front row: Michele, Amy Lippard, Kathy Beverlin, Sandra Baltera, Ray Baltera, Debra Berke, Julie Richardson, Brad Richardson. The second row has Mark Bolin, Jimmy Lippard, Don Beverlin, Ginger Meyer, Dolly Webster, and Ben Richter. The third row ends up with Chris Dougherty, Ann Dougherty, Doug Meyer, and Fred Webster. Ben is a regular at our ROMEO breakfast sessions that Fred Webster holds monthly at the Double-T Diner on the corner of Route 2 and West Street. ROMEO stands for Retired Old Men Eating Out. We typically get between 6-13 attendees from the local area. Among those who have attended have been, 14th Company’s Fred Webster, Ed Hubbard and Ben Richter, Bob Schmermund (15th Co), Joe Stanik (23rd Co), 10th Company’s Steve Petri, Craig Diffie, and Al “Blues” Baker, Chet Seto (13th Co), Ed Reid (23rd Co), Joe Leidig (14th Co), Ray Kwong (32nd Co), Ray Bracy (24th Co), Chip Jones (16th Co), Dave Brown (34th Co), Mo Tose’ (17th Co),
78/78 CLASS NEWS
’78: 14th Company Fall Reunion
’78: A ROMEO breakfast
Bob Novak (34th Co), Matt Rausch (21st Co), Steve Bacon (20th Co), John O’Neil (6th Co), Howie Seeger (23rd Co), Mike Fralen (29th Co), John Cooke (21st Co), John Cramer (23rd Co), Tim Curry (28th Co) and Michael Sears (3Co). Sometimes we see someone else in the restaurant. One morning Chip Jones saw Sonny Dean (’85). Sonny was 4th Company Mid when Chip was his Company Officer. Chip must have been well liked as Sonny did not dive under his breakfast table or brace up. In fact, he said that his fellow 4th Co classmates often see Chip at their event. 6th He even got with them little at their 40th Reunion in 2025. If any of you are coming to town around a third Thursday of the month contact Fred or me and join our ROMEO table. (I should add that some spouses want to have a JULIET event again with us- Just Us Ladies Interested in Eating Too).
You may recall the notice of the death of our ’78 Brother, On December 19,2025, Michael Ray Saddler, Sr. (13th Co.). Mike passed away in Memphis, TN. A loving husband, father, grandfather and mentor, he served 20 years in the Navy and received several distinguished service awards. Several 13th Company classmates attended his funeral in Memphis: Glen Woods, Sean Coffey, Herman Reddick, John Hawk and Tony Cato. Thanks for the photo Herman.
Stephen “Jock” Maloney (16th Co) wrote that after 34 years in the same house in Haddonfield, NJ, he and Mary Jane have moved. They sold the house to their daughter, Annie, and her husband Dan Rexon, who Jock reported “subsequently kicked us to the street!” They commenced renovations to old house, and we intend to rent their house in Haddon Township, NJ and expect to move in next month. Also making moves were Patricia and Ray Milton (18h Co). They sold their Maryland house and moved to Lynchburg, VA to live nearer the grandkids. Julie and Michael Sears (36th Co) now avoid the cold of Annapolis but are dealing with the taxes of “granola-land” as they moved to San Diego, CA. In closing, let me pass a little class business. We had a couple of zoom calls related to class programs that are ongoing. One was the A Link in the Chain (ALITC) Program. The other was our annual class zoom call. You can find the slide decks that were used to pass the gouge on our class website. ALITC slides focused on our Bonds of Gold (BOG) ceremony scheduled for 8 April 2026 in the Yard. In that ceremony gold from ’78 donated class rings, miniatures and pins are presented to the Class of ’28. That gold gets melted and added to gold from which their rings, miniatures and pins are made. That gives us a lasting legacy in perpetuity as ’28 does the same for the Class of 2078 when they become links in the chain and so on. At the annual class zoom call we discussed a variety class business: successes in 2025, our class funds status, the 50th Reunion class gift and the endowment and ALITC. Take a look at our website with information on all those programs as well as the slide deck used in presentations during the Zoom call. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me, any of your class officers or company rep or contact John Semcken regarding the 50th Reunion Gift and Endowment, Ray Bracy with regard to our 50th Reunion planning, or Bob Novak or me regarding A Link in the Chain activities (Mike Dinn (33rd Co) can also provide you specific information on the BOG activity.). With that I’ll close up this column. I’ll catch you next month. Launchin’ Spot Four.
13th Companymates Bid Farewell
’78: Chip Jones and Sonny Dean (’85), 4th Co ’85 Reunion MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 73
79/80 CLASS NEWS
’79
Life Membership: 91% Donor Participation: 2.78% Pres: CAPT Dave Jackson, USN (Ret.) e: dajaxn79@gmail.com Sec’y: LCDR John “Wiz” Withers, USN (Ret.) 1886 Woodpoint Ct., Lawrenceville, GA 30043 p: 240-298-1006; e: JDWithers@1979.usna.com myUSNA: https://myusna.com/topics/9426/home Social Network Links: http://www.linkedin.com/in/wizwithers Facebook Group: USNA Class of 1979
Greetings 79ers! After one of the warmest Christmases I’ve ever experienced (not including two in the Persian Gulf), I’m now digging out after near-record cold temperatures brought an ice storm to the Atlanta area. The two events together mean we’re having an “average” year in terms of temperature, but not a typical one. So much for statistics. Right before Christmas I heard from Bill Corkill, who updated me on retired life:
Jim Ratte and Bill Corkill
M Last April, Jim Ratte (9th Co) and his wife, Tammy, came by Pensacola for a of couple days to visit Teresa and I, as they made their way north in their Fifth Wheel set up. It was great to catch up with them, and now that they are moving to Florida, we hope to see more of each other. I retired in 2017 and my wife, Teresa, and I, have been traveling all over the world, as well as all over the US and Alaska, in our motorhome. Between the motorhome, our Can Am, and our full-size truck, we are 72 feet long going down the road. Teresa and I have been doing well, mostly sharing our time between Pensacola, FL and Franklin, NC. We’ve moved from a Goldwing Motorcycle to a Can Am 3-wheeler. It’s a different ride, for sure, but it allows us to keep riding as we get older. All the best, Bill. Your traveling caravan reminds me of the old movie “The Long, Long Trailer.” Sounds like quite a setup. Thanks, Bill, for checking in. Last fall Stephen Maloney ’78 sent me a short note with an update of our own Kevin “Duke” Reilly:
74 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
M The Fleet was short of boatswains mates in the Spring of 1978, so Kevin “Duke” Reilly was asked to leave USNA and for the next two years served aboard USS Blakely FF 1072. In 1980 he left the Navy as a BM2 and went home to Buffalo where he attended college on/off for two years. In 1983 he joined his two brothers at the JW Danforth Company, a $ 20M/year commercial HVAC business based in Buffalo, NY. For the next nineteen years he traveled all over NY, PA, TN, OH and Vermont managing multiple, large projects and learning all facets of the business. In 2002 the Board of Directors elected him CEO/Chairman of this $ 70M/ year company. Through his aggressive leadership over the next several years the company grew significantly. In 2019 he relinquished the CEO title but remained Chairman of the Board as sales eclipsed $ 300M. This $ 400M/year company was sold in November 2025 and the “Duke” retired! Not bad for an “antihero”! Thanks, Stephen, for the update, and congrats to Duke on his successful career. Enjoy your retirement! Fellow 19th Company-mate Gary Rossi sent a short note, letting me know he sold his family farm and ranch in Napa Valley and is now reunited with his wife in sunny San Diego, CA. Gary was in my Plebe Summer squad, and I remember memorizing his hometown as “Napa, California, Sir!” Now, 50 years later, Gary has relinquished the family estate. I know Maria is glad to have him “home” full-time now. Thanks, Gary! Finally, I’ll wrap up with a personal note. Last November my wife Karen and I celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary. Normally, we’d take some sort of trip for such an occasion, but this year we decided to do something different. We invited 35 of our closest friends and family to spend a weekend in Atlanta to celebrate with us and “just have fun.” Several 79ers joined us, including Coco and Bob Burell, Rebecca and Bob Larys, and Lori and Mike Leigh.
30th Anniversary – Wiz and Karen
Jean Bradley (widow of Mike Bradley) and her sister Ann Schaum drove over to celebrate with us, as they were also there at our wedding 30 years ago. Peggy and Paul Price had a schedule conflict and couldn’t make the trip, while Lois and Bob Dupuis felt that a planned trip to Hawaii was a better deal than Atlanta in November. Go figure… All in all, we were honored that so many family, friends and classmates would make the trip, and we deeply enjoyed seeing everyone. That’s a wrap for now. I’m getting geared up for a couple of business trips, plus the Atlanta Chapter’s annual “Dark Ages Party.” Looking forward to spring - see you next month! Wiz…
’80
Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 2.69% 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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9427/feed Website: http://1980.usnaclasses.net
79ers at Wiz & Karen’s 30th: Mike Leigh, Bob Larys, Jean Bradley, Wiz Withers and Bob Burell
2026 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Follow Navy Football online at: navysports.com 1-800-US4-NAVY
Greetings Classmates A little different column this month. During the 45th I tried to capture as many photos with nametags as I could. Here are some collages (I know you can’t read the names in the magazine) but we’ll post on the website, and you can zoom in. See if you can recognize these older people who call themselves your Classmates! If I missed you – please feel free to send me your own similar photo. I hope to include a page or two each column till they all make Shipmate. It is a fun way to see everyone – Go Navy! Go ’80!
80/80 CLASS NEWS
80: 45th Reunion MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 75
80/80 CLASS NEWS
80: 45th Reunion 76 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
80/80 CLASS NEWS
80: 45th Reunion
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 77
80/82 CLASS NEWS In closing, the reunion was a great success and because of the efforts of so many people we were able to gather as a Class and share our worlds. It’s cold, it’s a new year, we’re all getting older and this last paragraph becomes more important and relevant every time! I hope that this note finds each of you healthy, happy and wiser today than yesterday. Please take a few moments 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. As always, BEAT ARMY, Joe
’82
Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 1.45% 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: Rett Rasmussen 1710 Dana Pl., Fullerton, CA 92813 w: 562-696-8718; c: 562-822-0755 e: rett@rasmussen.biz myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9429/feed Website: http://1982.usnaclasses.net Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/USNA82
Good Morning, ‘82! In the last issue, your Class Scribe made five predictions about the last month of Navy Footballs’ season, of which I was correct on 4.5 of them. I chalk this up to my extreme gunginess rather than any special soothsaying abilities. On to your submissions…
John Spear (15) sent this: M “Sometimes you are surprised when you find something you thought was lost! Well, I just came upon this picture taken back in November 1995 of seven ’82 aviators aboard USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62) homeported out of Yokosuka, Japan. All of us were part of Air Wing FIVE (CVW-5), stationed in Atsugi, Japan at the time. If my memory serves me correctly, we were probably somewhere in the Persian Gulf or South China Sea as O-4 department heads within our respective squadrons. I know I was then the A-6E Maintenance Officer of VA-115 Eagles. It was a great feeling to fly with classmates who always had your six! “As for me, I wound up exiting active duty back in 1996 and finished the next 16 years in the reserves. I recently retired from Delta Air Lines, having flown 27 years, and am living in Chapel Hill, NC, chasing 3 grandkids and helping lead a capital campaign with our church. As I type this, my lovely bride of 42 years, Mary, is finishing up a short Return and Reunion cruise aboard Bruce’s former carrier, USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70), teaching reintegration, financial, and other classes to the crew as it returns to its home port in San Diego after a 9-month cruise that included combat operations - Operation Rough Rider which targeted Iran-backed Houthi rebels with airstrikes off of Yemen. What a small world! Who would have thought she could decode a “bullseye” faster than me? “A special shout out to all Mean 15’ers who have made group texting a blitzkrieg artform, strewn with hilarious comments, unusual observations, and typical Navy humor! Keep it coming! Go Navy! Beat Army! John “Chucker” Spear”
Spear family picture from a 2024 Discovery Cove adventure in Florida. We are accompanied by Rose, the dolphin!
Jeff Hughes (30) checked in: M “My son, Steve (USNA ’10, Navy 0-5) and I, along with his coworker, completed hiking Mount Whitney on July 30. What a beautiful day and an epic trip! Seeing most of southern CA and Nevada from 14,505 ft was quite impressive. The fishing at two lakes at about 12,000 feet was also a blast - catching a trout on almost every cast!”
Steve Hughes ’10, Jeff Hughes (30), and Steve’s coworker – ready to take on Mt. Whitney.
Steve Hughes ’10 and Jeff Hughes (30) summit Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the continental US.
’82 aviators (left to right): Randy Hawke (35), Carroll LeFone (18, deceased), John Spear (15, white float coat), Mike Smith (17), Doc Williams (18), Dan Slowikowski (26) and Bruce Lindsey (25). 78 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Gregg Edelmann (16) updates us from Houston, TX: M “Beginning life as an empty nester as my younger daughter heads off to college (yeah, don’t do the math, it’s scary :) I retired in 2020 from a 30-year career with Exxon Mobil and in 2010 from 28 years serving with our beloved Navy. These days I enjoy watching my two daughters make their way in the world, time with family and friends, volunteering, Navy
82/82 CLASS NEWS football/wrestling, traveling and distance running. Leading up to the 2025 Boston Marathon, Billy Stackhouse (16), Steve Heid (16) and Dwayne Clark (16) supported me through training, chanting “Stretch 82, Stretch” in true Heinz Lenz fashion. Billy lives in Colorado Springs and is the Director of Strategic Initiatives with Military Community Youth Ministries, which is part of Young Life. Steve and I live practically next door to each other and regularly get together for meals (which is awesome). Dwayne lives in WI and is a family medicine physician following his Navy time as a submariner and then Navy physician.”
NADS82 at Friends of Navy Sailing event
’82 at Friends of Navy Sailing dinner 16th Co. roomies Billy Stackhouse and Gregg Edelmann at the 2023 Marine Corps Marathon, where Billy graciously cheered Gregg on while in town.
16th Co. on the town: Steve Heid, Dwayne Clark and Gregg Edelmann.
Don Clements (4) reported on the Class of ’82 at FONS: M “The Naval Academy hosted a Friends of Navy Sailing (FONS) event the weekend of August 22-24. The event was open to all who support Navy Sailing and had great representation from former Academy sailors and their families and friends totaling 300 participants. For the past six years our own Mark “Stick” Converse (31) has been at the helm of FONS and has done an incredible job of executing flawless events and growing the program which supports Navy Sailing. I’m pleased to report that the Class of ‘82 had the highest number of representatives at 20! Mark Converse (31); Michael Case (15); Randy Kurtz (27); Peter Gates (34); Joan and Alan Wilde (17); Bill Derr (28); Brett McKenzie (14); Dave Simpson (9), Eric Simpson, Virginia McMinn, Kelsey Graff; Gavin Giddings (3); Steve Lowery (18); Dennis Wells (17); Steve Pollard (17); Dave
Johnson (17); Eric Reinke (3); Bill Thayer (9); Chuck Collins (24); Mike Ford (24); Camille and Greg Fisher (17); Ken Perry (2); Shelley and Don Clements (4). The event included a Friday night social gathering where old friends re-connected and shared sea stories and memories. Saturday those who were interested took to the water as participants or spectators of racing on nearly every sailboat in Santee Basin! The Navy 44’s, Colgate 26’s (new knockabouts), and the dinghy fleets were manned and racing for several hours on the Severn. An after race social gathering and awarding of race results took place at the Sailing Center. The weekend culminated with a Saturday evening banquet at the stadium club facility. Midshipmen were sponsored to join the group as guest speakers shared their views on how Navy sailing taught leadership and skills that contributed to successful Naval careers. The
weather could not have been better, and a great time was had by all!”
More ’82 at Friends of Navy Sailing dinner
Sandy Martin Sadler (6) updates us from Anne Arundel County: M “Very pleased to have attended three major events at the Naval Academy this summer (2025): (1) June 26 – I-Day for the Class of
’82 at the DGA ceremony (l to r): Rose McGrath Young (10), Terri Riggs (1), Sandy Martin Sadler (6), Bill Hebert (33), Mara Heatherington Matthes (33), Pam Pitkin (4), Dori Zink Freer (36), Holly Johnson (29), and Pat Cole (14). Also attended, but not in photo – Linda Postenrieder (33). MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 79
82/84 CLASS NEWS ’29. In addition to the excited incoming plebes, fresh Whiteworks, and nervous parents, great fun to observe “our firsties,” the Class of ’79, as they started their link-in-the-chain responsibilities on I-Day. (2) August 15 – Change of Command ceremony – Lieutenant General Borgschulte ’91 is now the 66th Superintendent and made history as the first Marine Corps Supe. (3) September 4 – Distinguished Graduate Award ceremony – four new Distinguished Graduates were welcomed. The Class of ’82 was well represented.
Thanks to all who provided inputs to the column. Once again, my call to action: Reach out to classmates you have not seen for a while. Reminisce and re-connect. Please share the news, adventures and photos to 83shipmate@gmail.com. All the best – Jeff “1983 - A Class Act!”
Bob Schiavinato and Ed Rahme
Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 2.15%
Bravo Zulu, Classmates – you have been keeping my mail bag full! If you’ve submitted and haven’t yet seen it published, fear not, it will be forthcoming. I generally use them in the order I receive them, and my next submissions start at 9/27/2025 for the May/June 2026 issue. Please email to me at Rett@Rasmussen. biz with summer cruise or Plebe Summer memories, or anything else you’d like to share with our great Class - just a picture/paragraph is all it takes. Looking good, ’82! – Razz
Pres: Mr. Craig “Mel” Hamner e: craig.mel.hamner@gmail.com Vice Pres: Mr. Karl Darden e: rkdarden@gmail.com
Treas: Mr. Stephen J. Shepherd e: stephenjamesshepherd@gmail.com Sec’y/Shipmate Contact: Andy Gallotta 11106 Del Rio Dr., Fairfax, VA 22030 p: 571-253-8625; e: agallotta84@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9431/feed Website: www.usna84.org
’83
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 2.10% Pres: Steve Fischer Fredericksburg, VA p: 540-840-7051; e: slf83usna@gmail.com Vice Pres: Barbara Bell, Ed.D, CAPT, USN (Ret.) Treas: Joe Spruil p: 703-579-6275; e: usna1983Treasurer@gmail.com Sec’y and Shipmate Contact: CAPT Jeff Currer, USN (Ret.) 6119 Dory Lane Ct., Burke, VA 22015 c: 703-579-7846; e: 83shipmate@gmail.com Communications Director: Mike Philbrook e: michael.philbrookr@1983.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9430/feed Facebook: USNA 1983 LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/83 Website: http://1983.us
Hey ’83! This column is going to be brief as inputs were a bit on the light side…. Crazy times and that is for sure. This in from Ed Rahme: M “After months of trying to talk my wife into going to Antarctica, she laid down the law and said she would not be sailing the Drake Passage with me and I should find someone else to go with. So, I went on the journey with my best friend from High School, Bob Schiavinato, and we had a great time. The first photo was just me and our class flag. The second is Bob and me. We called it “Bob and Ed’s Excellent Adventure”
Ed Rahme
Scott Watson is doing it all again! Scott sent M “Calling All Classmates! Two great opportunities to Bike Ride and have a blast with classmates. If you missed the Bike Rides leading up to and including the amazing Ride Across America in 2023 - you now have 2 more chances to join rides! John Hults is organizing a Fall 2026 an Annual Army-Navy Ride and we will continue to run the BamaRama500! Starting again April 2, 2027. Reach out to John and/or Scott for more information: johnrhults@gmail.com and scottwatson83@gmail.com
Winter finally arrived in northern Virginia this weekend! The thermometer reads -6 deg. But then I remember that’s deg C. 21 deg F isn’t much comfort. Hopefully the cold spell here will break in the next week or so. Can’t wait for spring! Navy continues to dominate Army and the lacrosse season is coming. It’s a nice time to be a Navy fan. Tim Quigley (3rd Co) shared a bunch of news and photos this month. The first bit was the sad news of classmate Ivan Rosa’s (35th Co) wife passing. From her Celebration of Life, “Bruny was a devoted wife and mother, a trusted teacher at Jupiter Christian School, and a cherished friend wherever life took her as a Marine spouse. She built deep, lasting friendships along the way and ultimately found home in Jupiter, where her faith, kindness, and steady presence touched so many lives.” All our condolences are with you, Ivan.
Ivan and Bruny
Wow, that is a bucket list adventure… it is certainly on my bucket list! Scott Watson and Grandchild #9 Anne
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’84
Next from Tim, while he and his wife Margeret were in Jupiter, FL enjoying Margaret’s first few days of retirement from Belmont University, they hosted Bill Lewis (‘60) and his wife Linda. Ivan was also able to join. Bill served on the USS Redfin, SS - 272 from March 1962 - March 1964.
84/87 CLASS NEWS
Ivan Rosa, Bill Lewis (’60), Linda Lewis and Tim Quigley in Jupiter, FL.
Kevin Monahan Ross Baker Mike Heil and Jon Harber
Finally, for the Shipmate trifecta, Tim shared news that only a USNA engineering grad can appreciate. He and Margeret had dinner with none other than Professor Clyde “Rick” Richard and his wife JoAnne in Tequesta, FL. Professor Richard is remembered for his “Engineering Economics” class. In this next phase of life, Professor Rick is looking forward to some downhill skiing on his upcoming 85th birthday! I guess age really IS just a number.
And another Shipmate submission is complete. It’s so nice to hear from you each month. My condolences go out to Ivan, and I hope he will be in your thoughts also. Mary Ann and I are looking forward to moving to Naples this spring. I’ve taken a 3-year assignment on the NAVEUR staff. If you are ever in southern Italy, give us a shout! Keep the updates coming! You get more with ’84!
’86
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 1.94% Pres: Michael Cadwell p: 505-400-3406; e: mgcadwell@gmail.com Vice Pres: RADM Jim McNeal, USN SC (Ret.) e: jamesm@ispards.com Tim Quigley and Professor Rick Richards.
Doug Conkey (12th Co) writes from Jacksonville that he and classmate Izzy Guibas (13th Co) enjoyed the Navy football victory at VyStar Ballpark in downtown Jacksonville, Doug put in a plug for Izzy’s Parlor Donuts, and their famous layered donuts! Sounds amazing, Izzy!
Doug Conkey and Izzy Guibas at VyStar Ballprk in Jacksonville.
And Jon Harber (33rd Co) shared that he, Kevin Monahan (27th Co), and Mike Heil met at Ross Baker’s (36th Co) home for the Army-Navy game. Clearly a great time had. Singing second – gotta love it.
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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9433/feed
Not much this month, so how about y’all rectify that and send me some content? This month’s news is from Brian O’Malley (7): M While I haven’t written a book so I can’t join the author event at the reunion, I do have a long-term goal of completing the 7 for 7 summit challenge (climbing the highest summits in the 7 continents), culminating with another attempt at Everest when I’m 75 to attempt to be the oldest American, all to fundraise for Veteran causes. I think it’s good to set goals as we age to always have something to look forward to and keep the body in shape. Kathmandu next year is the short-term plan. Instead of a written journal of my Everest experience last year, I did a video compilation from some of the pictures and videos I had taken: https://youtu.be/7WA65M-rINk . Thanks, Brian – good luck with those summits! Since no one else wants to write me, you’ll have to endure an Althouse update. I recently left my role after four years as the Chief
Compliance Officer at Green Dot to join Block and their compliance team. I’ll be working with Square Financial Services, which is Block’s bank. I still do the instant replay thing for Navy home football games and have added doing the scoreboard and game and shot clocks for Navy men’s and women’s lacrosse. Anything to stay warm and dry in the press box…. I’ll also provide another reminder about our upcoming 40th reunion – it will be held 17-20 September 2026. Information will come fast and furious regarding registration for events so please make sure your contact information (especially email address!) is up to date with the alumni association. Also, if you haven’t already, please register on myusna.com as our class page and most reunion information will reside there. And finally, our whiskey fundraiser has done so well we’ve commissioned a second barrel. There are also class crest rocks glasses available, so visit sono1420.square. site/1986usna to add to your collection and help add to the reunion fund. Go Navy – Audemus Esse Magnos
’87
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 2.54% Pres: Scott Herbener e: president@usna87.net; p: 410-703-3519 Vice Pres: Tim Wolf e: vpt@usna87.net CFO: Chris Dunphy e: finance@usna87.net CFO: Steve Rowe e: comms@usna87.net CTO: Jason Hardebeck e: tech@usna87.net Shipmate columnist: Robert Pinataro e: rpinataro87@gmail.com; p: 770-722-6373 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9434/feed Website: www.usna87.org
Hello Classmates, Good riddance to the Dark Ages! With apologies for the missing Mar-Apr column, I wish all of you a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2026! News from our classmates: M “Hello ‘87, During fleet weekend in San Francisco, I had the pleasure of meeting Dean Schmidt ‘84 aboard his 1989 Carver Californian 55-foot motor yacht with my good friend David Sciortino ‘86. Unfortunately, due to the shutdown of the federal government the Blue Angels as well as the F-22 and F-35 flight demonstrations were cancelled so we had to settle for the Canadian snowbirds.“ ~Joe Krensavage
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 81
87/88 CLASS NEWS
L to R Dean Schmidt, Joe Krensavage and David Sciortino
With thanks to John Jewell for the news, congratulations to the 1985-86 Rugby Team, which was inducted into the USNA Rugby Hall of Fame! Multiple classmates were members of the team. M “Hello ’87! The Michigan State Spartans recently came to Madison Square Garden for the annual Champions Classic. I met up with Craig Perri and Marc Firlie to support Doug Wojcik and MSU. Doug led the team to a convincing victory over Kentucky. Doug’s son Denham, wearing #10 like his father, saw some action and had a few assists that made the highlight reel. After the game we went back to Craig’s restaurant and had a few celebratory cocktails. As I write this, MSU is undefeated and ranked in the Top 10. Good luck to Doug the rest of the way. “ ~John Loesch
Class of 1987 attending this year’s Rugby Banquet on 3 October
The Michigan State Spartans at the 2025 Champions Classic
Helen and Doug Murphy visiting the Mocama Beer Company Taproom that Hamp Tanner (28th Co) helped found in Fernandina Beach, FL.
Please send your news to rpinataro87@gmail. com with “Shipmate” in the subject line.
It’s hard to believe, but our 40th reunion will be in TWO years! Please, please take a moment to update your email on myUSNA; it’s the best way we can contact you with upcoming reunion and other ’88 news. Also, head over to usna.com/1988 for the finer details of our 40th Reunion Class Gift. The myUSNA platform will also connect you with your local alumni chapters, other special interest groups (SIGs), and current USNA activities in Annapolis and in your area. If you need assistance, just contact me. Finally, a big shout out to all of our company and battalion reps! Without our volunteers, ’88 events like tailgaters and reunions would not be possible. If you’d like to volunteer, too, please let us know! I’m looking forward to hearing from each of you this spring as we head into summer adventures. Email anything you’d like to share — even just a short update or a photo. Who’s turning 60 in 2026?! Stay safe and healthy and keep in touch with each other. LL88 (Do we have a class slogan?)
’88
Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 1.70% Pres: Chris Bushnell e: cjbushnell88@gmail.com Vice Pres Ops: Bill Bray p: 571-245-5862; e: bbray114@yahoo.com Vice Pres Comms: Laura Lee e: lee.laura.s@gmail.com Treas: Sam DiPaola e: usna88treasury@aol.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/26441334505 L to R Doug Wojcik, Craig Perri, John Loesch and Marc Firlie
LinkedIn: w ww.linkedin.com/groups/12437536 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9435/feed Shipmate submissions: shipmate1988@gmail.com
Helen and Doug Murphy (23rd Co) visited Amelia Island, FL in December. They both retired in the summer of 2024, sold their home, and are now full-time RVers for the time being! They have traveled across the United States in their RV and have shared some of their amazing experiences and stories, venturing up into Canada and now wintering down in Islamorada until April. I think we all might be a little jealous! Helen and Doug, write in and send us your thoughts about RVing and more photos of your travels! Doug Wojcik leading the Michigan State Spartans
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MERCHANDISE To order your class, chapter or parent club specific merchandise, visit usna.com/shop
’89
Life Membership: 100% Donor Participation: 1.45% Pres: Denise (Shorey) Willert Haendelstrasse 8, 46459 Rees, Germany German p: 49 (0)170 960 4551 U.S. p: 1 757 386 7804 e: denise.willert@1989.usna.com Corr Sec’y: S cott McFadden e: scottmcfadden1989@gmail.com Listserv: usna89@yahoogroups.org Listserv Subscription: s end 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: s end a blank message to usna89-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com Webmaster: Ingar Grev e: igrev@1989.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9436/feed
Greeting classmates and Happy 2026! As I’m writing this, the big winter storm is wrapping up after bringing snow, ice, freezing rain and bitter cold across most of the country. We’ve gotten well over 12 inches of snow here in upstate New York. On top of that, I’m recovering from the hernia surgery I had right before the storm hit. Now I’d like to welcome aboard our new Class President, Karen (Somsel) Quilty: M Classmates, I’m truly honored to be writing my first note to you as Class President. On behalf of your entire leadership team, thank you for the trust and confidence you’ve placed in us. We are proud to serve and committed to representing the best of the Class of 1989. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to any member of the board with ideas, questions, or concerns — we are here for you. Your Class of 1989 Leadership Team: President: Karen Quilty – (727) 647-8794 – karenquilty89@gmail.com Vice President: Michael McGettigan – (267) 342-0914 – michaeldmcgettigan@yahoo.com Operations: Ingar Grev – (443) 744-1059 – igrev@1989.usna.com Secretary: Denise (Shorey) Willert – +49 2850 9016522 – stellastuttgart@aol.com Treasurer: Dave Dowling – (572) 331-9874 – ddowling89@earthlink.com Member-at-Large, Class Gift: Heidi Fleming – (703) 402-5853 – hf14vb@gmail.com Member-at-Large, Company Representatives: Brian Caldwell – (410) 592-5215 – usna89@mrcaldwell.com Before looking ahead, I want to pause and recognize those whose service has brought us to this moment. First, my sincere thanks to Denise Willert, who served as our Class President for the past
89/89 CLASS NEWS six years with extraordinary dedication, grace, and heart. Denise poured herself into this role, leading us through an incredibly successful reunion and spearheading our efforts to honor fallen classmates through the Plank Owners Wall at the Fluegel Alumni Center — a project of lasting significance to our class. She accomplished all of this while living in Germany, often joining meetings in the middle of the night. Denise, you set a high standard, and we are deeply grateful that you are continuing to serve as our Class Secretary. I would also like to thank Tony Newpower, who served as Treasurer for six years. Tony’s steady leadership, professionalism, and meticulous attention to detail ensured our finances were managed responsibly and transparently. His work behind the scenes was critical to the success of our reunion and other class initiatives, and we owe him our thanks. Finally, Joe Fagan concludes his service on the board after six years, including stepping into the Vice President role during a difficult transition following Heather’s passing. Joe’s deep connection to the Naval Academy and understanding of its inner workings made him an invaluable resource to the board and to our class. As you read this, you will likely already have heard about some of the initiatives this new board is beginning to roll out. At the heart of all of them is our core mission: to serve the Class of 1989 and to strengthen the bonds that connect us. The older I get, the more I appreciate how formative our time together truly was. Some of you were friends, company mates, teammates, or training partners — but all of you shared a defining chapter that shaped who we are today. I could not be more proud to be a member of the USNA Class of 1989. One initiative we are especially excited about is ’89 Cares, an effort focused on connection, outreach, and support within our class community. We want every classmate to feel connected, relevant, and valued, and we welcome your ideas and involvement as this effort takes shape. We are also well underway with our 40th Reunion Class Gift campaign. More important than the amount any individual chooses to give is participation — feeling invested in our class and in the future of the Brigade. My thanks to Jay Crabtree and his committee for their leadership and hard work on this important effort. On a more personal note, Chris and I began the new year with a tremendous blessing: becoming grandparents on January 1st at 12:31 a.m. Our granddaughter, Abigail Joy, was born to our son, Zachary Quilty ’20, and his wife, Kathryn, near Albany, New York. Zack is currently stationed at the Ballston Spa Prototype as an instructor and watch officer. Holding our first grandchild has been one of the greatest joys of our lives. Our daughter Reagan Quilty ’24 recently completed her Master’s degree in U.S. Government at Georgetown while recovering
from her second ACL tear — a testament to her grit and perseverance. She continues to work at the Naval Academy and has even done some substitute poli-sci teaching while she waits to start TBS in April. Our youngest, Emerson, is finishing her surgical technologist training and, on weekends, can be found working on the water as a certified 100-ton Master Captain. Watching our kids find their paths — each in their own way — has been deeply rewarding. We continue to make our home in St. Petersburg, Florida, and warmly welcome any classmates passing through — whether you’re escaping winter or adding a beach stop to a Florida trip. Wishing you a wonderful remainder of winter and hoping warmer days are just around the corner. I look forward to serving our class! Warmly, Karen Quilty ’89
Chris, Karen and their new grandbaby, Abigail Joy
Congratulations Chris and Karen on becoming grandparents! There’s no better feeling! And congratulations to the new Class of 1989 leadership team! Thank you for your continued service and devotion to our great class! Don’t miss your last chance to get in on a bit of USNA’s history! From 16-19 April, there is a going to be a huge event at the Fluegel Alumni Center to celebrate 50 years of women at USNA. Tickets are on sale now through 1 April. As of 2/6, there are 502 people registered. About 400 are attending the Gala and about 50 are signed up to play golf. Register here: signupnow.events/ usnawomen50. The weekend’s schedule is now published on the registration website. The fee for the weekend conference/ celebration is $250. The Friday night Black Tie Gala is an additional $200, with additional opportunities for VIP upgrades at registration. While you’re in the area, pop by the Historic Annapolis St. Clair Wright Center, 99 Main Street to see their new exhibit honoring the 50-year milestone. The exhibit will be on display through the through first half of 2026. Letter Sweaters! They are encouraging everyone to break them out and bring them to wear at the conference. Join USNA Women on social media post / re-post / see pictures of gatherings: Instagram: @usnawomenalumni Facebook: @USNA Women (Page and group) MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 83
89/90 CLASS NEWS LinkedIn: @USNA Women (Page and group) Keep checking back to 50 Year on myUSNA. com, USNA Women group for real time updates. See you in April! Beat Army! -Catherine Until next time! —Scott
’90
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 1.36% 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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9437/feed Website: www.usna90.com Facebook: USNA Class of 1990
Some of you may be aware or attended Darin Perrine’s retirement ceremony on October 3 during our reunion. We wanted to share the following in celebration of his distinguished career of service: On October 3, 2025, Captain Darin Perrine retired from the Naval Service after 35 years of both Active and Reserve Service. A formal retirement ceremony was held at the Naval Academy in Dahlgren Hall where
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Darin gathered with squadron mates, classmates, family and friends to celebrate his 35 years of service to the Navy and our Nation. Darin’s USNA roommate, CAPT Eric Wiese ‘90 was the guest speaker with his former CO, CAPT Ed Moninger ‘91 serving as Master of Ceremony, and CDR Kelly White ‘90 offering the invocation. After the ceremony, most attendees joined Darin and his wife Terri at the USNA O-Club for lunch. Additional USNA grads in attendance: RADM James McNeal ‘86, CAPT Ed Moninger ‘91, CAPT Jay Turner ‘91, CAPT Steve Wieman ‘88, CDR Kelly (Duncan) White ‘90, CDR David Arteta ‘90, CDR Chris Nelli ‘90, CDR Rob Cannon ‘90, Mike Gabriel ‘90, Mike Martinez ‘90, Dave Bogner ‘90, Barb (Rapson) Bierden ‘90, Max Reck ‘90, Ken Bates ‘90 and Ron Preiss ‘91 Side Boys: MIDN 1/C Anthony Todd, MIDN 3/C Lexie Gabriel (daughter of Mike Gabriel ‘90), MIDN 3/C Wyatt Thorliefson, MIDN 3/C Ben Joireman, MIDN 3/C Sam Hill, MIDN 3/C Yuriy Kryvoruchko On active duty, Darin served as a E-2C Hawkeye NFO flying missions from the USS George Washington and then taught NROTC at the University of New Mexico. While on active duty he did several overseas deployments to include the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and Persian Gulf with long term shore assignments in Kuwait, and Afghanistan. After leaving the active fleet, he joined the reserves as a Supply Corps Officer. He is currently the Blue
& Gold Area Coordinator for the State of Washington. Darin and his wife Terri (Nelson) are both retired and live in Spokane, WA but soon will be moving to Grants Pass, OR.
CAPT Darin Perrine (‘90), MIDN 3/C Kryvoruchko (‘28), and CAPT Ed Moninger (‘91)
CAPT Perrine delivering retirement speech, CAPT Ed Moninger (‘91) was the MC
90/91 CLASS NEWS
’90: USNA ‘90 Grads: Kyle White, Mike Gabriel, Kelly (Duncan) White, David Arteta, Rob Cannon, Max Reck, Barb (Rapson) Bierden, Ken Bates, Chris Nelli, Darin Perrine, Eric Wiese, Dave Bogner and Mike Martinez
Please continue to send your personal updates, memories, and photos to SHIPMATE1990@gmail.com for future editions of this column!
’91
Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 1.44% Pres: Gibson Armstrong p: 717-371-0124; e: gibson@1991.usna.com
MIDN 3/C Lexie Gabriel (‘28) and MIDN 3/C Wyatt Thorliefson (‘28)
fact that the Army coach provided us with locker-room bulletin board material weeks before the game when he asked, “Do they still have a football program at Navy?” The emphatic answer is, “Yes we do coach!!” Nothing like singing second. It was great to catch up with lots of classmates in D.C. for the weekend. We had a group dinner Friday night that included: Scott Carson, Dave Berghult, Matt Reardon, Dave Olson, Donny Jack, Roger Alvarez and Rex Kiteley, plus families. On Saturday a bunch of us attended the Travis Manion tailgate before the game. And during the game, I ran into Josh Skule in the stands, and of course LtGen Mike Borgschulte! On Sunday, several of us went to Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) to visit fallen teammates. Respectfully, we have other classmates in ANC whom we did not get a chance to visit, but we were able to pay our respects to Alton Grizzard and Scott Zellem. ANC had decorated every gravesite with wreaths for the holiday season; it was an impressive and awe-inspiring sight. Once again, it was a great weekend and a reminder of how much I appreciate being a 1991 classmate and USNA shipmate. Go Navy, Beat Army!
Exec Vice Pres: Mike Rapp p: 757-620-0070; e: michaelrapp999@gmail.com Admin Vice Pres: Ana Kreiensieck p: 703-298-9099; e: akreiensieck91@gmail.com Treas: Jen Coleman p: 989-600-9671; e: jen@1991.usna.com Sec’y: Juan Orozco p: 571-529-4447; e: juanorozco91@gmail.com At Large: Ian Hadden p: 501-313-9597; e: Ian.Hadden@@1991.usna.com At Large: Craig Benson p: 612-203-4280; e: micra110@yahoo.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9438/feed
Skule, Matt Reardon, Dave Olson at game
Website: www.usna91.info
CAPT Darin Perrine and wife Terri Perrine being piped ashore
VAW-121 Bluetails: Mike Knirnchild, Ron Preiss (‘91), Darin Perrine (‘90) and Steve Wieman (‘88)
Welcome to 2026…or should I say 91+35! A subtle reminder that it’s our 35th Reunion this year from 22-25 October 2026. Mike Rapp has been working with our classmates to make this another incredible reunion and has some important updates later in this article. I write this article during the dark ages in the Mid-Atlantic and I have received some great updates from some of our classmates. I’ll start with congratulating our Navy Football team who had an incredible season, which included a Liberty Bowl victory and a well-deserved and hard-fought victory over Army. What a start for our own Class of ’91 Superintendent LtGen Mike Borgschulte. We all look forward to 2026, especially with the upcoming reunion. We hope to see you there – our class has a habit of having incredible reunions. A great Army/Navy Game update from Diamond Dave Olson: What an amazing Army/Navy football game!! Never mind the
Matt Reardon, Dave Olson, Lt.Gen Mike Borgschulte on field at game
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 85
91/91 CLASS NEWS who is an army brat whom they have been trying to convert for years.
LtGen Mike Borgschulte with our last SECNAV! Juan Orozco, Sterling Dawley, and Jeffry Guerrero meet up at a local Norfolk brewery!
Arlington National Cemetery group at Scott Zellem’s grave: (L to R) Matt Reardon, Don Jack, LtGen Mike Borgschulte, Dave Olson, Scott Carson, Dave Berghult!
To show us that we are not too old to have fun, RADM Max McCoy—a proud Blue Angels alumni—helped transit the Blue Angels jets to El Centro in support of Winter Training. RADM Max McCoy currently serves as the Chief of Naval Air Training (relieved RADM Richard “Snap” Brophy who is now serving as Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic), making this flight a powerful reminder of the precision, legacy, and leadership that connect generations of naval aviation.
Class of 1991 connections. Whether at a magnificent tailgater, at a bowl game or at a brewery, we find ways to connect with our class. Mike Rapp never seizes to amaze me! Thanks for an incredible tailgater season – you make it easy for us to connect at football games. Max flying with the Blue Angels one more time!
‘91 Tailgater at Army/Navy!
‘91 Representing at Navy’s bowl game victory! 86 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
As the father of a Navy SWO Nuke LT, I understand how proud we are when our children join and serve in our military. I received an update from Marc Delao sharing that their son Matt joined the family business as a 4th generation Delao to serve in the Navy (great grandpa was a Specialist X, grandpa was ’63). Matt has excelled so far and was selected to head to the Navy’s Dive prep school. Marc and his wife are so proud of Matt and his wife,
Matt and Marc Delao! A proud father – Congratulations Marc!
50th Anniversary of Women at USNA. Kim (Church) Parker shared that the 50-Year Recognition & Celebration Weekend will be 16–19 April 2026. Please RSVP now on the USNA Women MyUSNA page to help with early planning. (Note: This is a preliminary headcount—formal registration with event details and costs will follow closer to the date.) Class Email: If you don’t get Gib’s occasional email, but want to, text him email address at (717) 371-0124. Reunion Update from Mike Rapp. As this goes to press we are only about 6 months away from our 35th reunion of 21-25 October, which is also Homecoming Weekend. By the time of this publication, your reunion committee will have already provided reunion details. We are sharing this reunion weekend with four other classes, two of which are “Link in the Chain” classes, so if you haven’t made your accommodations yet, please do so immediately. Casa de Rapp is first come first served, though you can pitch a few tents on my property. But I suspect most of us are into Glamping, not rustic camping nowadays. Because you will have already seen updated reunion info via our other class comm’s by this time, I really just want to take this opportunity to thank our classmates who have joined me in planning this event: Byron Parker, Lisa Rielage, Doug Vaugahn, Dan Wagner, Dan Murphy, Ken Price, Steve Horrell, Joel Gutierrez and James Houston, Dan Morio and Evan Barnett. We can’t pull off big events like this without Classmate support. Also, most 35th reunions are pretty low-key and don’t get high priority for things such as chapel time for memorial services and other on-Yard activities. HOWEVER, only 1 in 3 or 4 classes have a reunion at the same time as their classmate is SUPERINTENDENT. This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for all of us to celebrate, and I hope to see you there.
’92
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 2.11%
92/92 CLASS NEWS the esprit de corps that Bill’s legacy continues to inspire in all of us. The bonds we share have never felt stronger – thank you!
Pres: Donnie Kennedy Vice Pres: Glen Viado Treasurer: Joe Zurzolo
Cal Foster, George Moraitis, Treska Riley, Nicole Foster, John and Lesley Schmidt, David Ornstein and TR Buchanan
Corr Sec’ys: David Ornstein and Brett Odom e: USNA1992ClassUpdate@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9439/feed Website: www.usna92.com
’92, Pleased to be back with you as we reach early spring. Before the long summer days set in, please take a few minutes to share your recent exploits with your classmates at usna1992classupdate@gmail.com We begin this edition on a poignant note as Mike Doherty shares the details of a 6th company event last fall, celebrating the life and memories of a couple of classmates who have left us behind: M On October 24th, 14 members of 6th Company and many of their family members gathered in Annapolis to celebrate the memory of our classmate, Bill “Dewar” Dey. More than 25 years ago, Bill and fellow 1992 Classmate, Dave Bergstrom, tragically lost their lives when their F-14 crashed during an airshow at Naval Air Station Willow Grove. Bill’s widow, Debbie, and his daughter Kamryn, were the driving force behind this gathering of the 6th Company crew, Bill’s family and his squadron mates at Level, a local Annapolis establishment, for a night filled with laughter, tears, camaraderie, and countless stories of Bill’s remarkable life and legacy. As we honored and remembered the profound impact Bill had on all of us, for Kamryn, who lost her father when she was only 15 months old, it was as if she was learning more about him through our toasts. The celebration continued Saturday with a tailgater for the Navy/FAU football game where we ran into even more fellow ’92-ers. We spent the rest of the weekend in downtown Annapolis, reminiscing about Bill and enjoying the simple pleasures of oysters, cold beer and Dewar’s scotch, all while taking in the beauty of a perfect fall weekend on the Severn. The Slack Six crew included Scott Miller, Gardner Smith, Mike Doherty, Tim Flecker, Parrish Boulware, Rob Patrick, Stu Egeli, Sam Snow, Nicole Fitz (nee Myslinski), BJ Strouth, Erik Stohlmann, Sean Parker, Ed Rapp and Todd Masters. The remainder of 6th Company were present in spirit. Bill, through your example, you taught us to live in the moment, to go full throttle on the important things in life, and to be eternally loyal to those who matter the most. Deb and Kam – we cannot thank you enough for keeping us all connected, for a beautifully planned weekend, and for fostering
Mike Doherty, Scott Miller and Gardner Smith
David Ornstein, John Schmidt, Treska Riley and Cal Foster Mike Doherty Jr., Maddie Miller, Scott Miller and Kamryn Dey
It’s always a delight to sit down to write this column after watching Navy beat Army! The 2025 edition of victory was particularly meaningful for your loyal correspondent, as together with plebe roommates Cal Foster and John Schmidt, we took the family of our late classmate and beloved friend Chris Riley to the game for their first time at the greatest event in sports (and of course, they got a classic Army-Navy nailbiter and the right result!). We had the opportunity to rendezvous there with other 13th Company classmates TR Buchanan and George Moraitis.
As always, BZ to Joe Zurzolo for keeping the monthly class lunch at Galway Bay in fine trim as a regular item of ’92 fellowship.
’92 Class Lunch – December Edition: Glen Viado, Scott Coughlin, Joe Johnson, Holly Johnson and Dan DeMaso
’92: 6th Company Classmates and Partners
’92: Mike Doherty, Sam Snow, Gardner Smith, Stu Egeli, Nicole Myslinski, BJ Strouth, Sean Parker, Tim Flecker, Eric Stohlmann, Todd Masters, and Ed Rapp Celebrating Memories MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 87
92/93 CLASS NEWS
’92 Class Lunch – September Edition: Glen Sharlun, Glen Viado, Joe Zurzolo, Mike Bilzor
Devan Cross delivering remarks at the Empowered Hosted Red Carpet Premiere event
Sound off (by email to usna1992classupdate@ gmail.com), ’92!
In December, I had an opportunity to attend my first Army-Navy game since being a mid. And the team didn’t disappoint with another victory over Army. We flew in on Thursday night and were graciously hosted by my roommate and his wife, Jennifer and Kevin Hanson. We had a wonderful dinner with company mates in Crystal City on Friday evening and then traveled up to Baltimore on Saturday for the game. It was a weekend for the books, for sure. Unfortunately, we have some rather somber news to share next: John Jones recently succumbed to cancer after a long fight. Thanks to Eric Winter who sent in a very nice write-up of the services: M For 32 years, the 33rd Company miraculously avoided losing any of its members through operational loss, accident, or sickness. Recently, that changed when we lost John Jones to cancer on 31 October. Everyone in the company deeply loved John. His relentless sense of humor carried us through plebe
’93
Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 2.68% Pres: Bob Kuberski e: bob@usna93.com Vice Pres: CAPT Colleen C. Salonga, SC, USN (Ret.) Corr Sec’y: Maj Shogo Cottrell, USMCR 30765 W. 127th St., Olathe, KS 66061 p: 913-220-1193; e: shogo@usna93.com Treas: C DR Tanya (Wallace) Presser, USNR (Ret.) e: tanya@usna93.com Shipmate Correspondence: Maj Shogo Cottrell, USMCR 30765 W. 127th St., Olathe, KS 66061 p: 913-220-1193; e: shogo@usna93.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9440/feed Website: http://www.usna93.com
Let me just say that our class is amazing. Yes, we’ve all known this since I-Day, but we just received news that we have another classmate who has been recognized as a Distinguished Graduate. Congratulations to Chris Cassidy who was recently announced as a recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Graduate Award! More details on the ceremony will be forthcoming, but it looks like it will happen in the fall of 2026. Our first update this month comes from Devan Cross who was recognized for his efforts as the CEO of the non-profit Bi-Bett: M Bi-Bett, the non-profit where I serve as CEO, recently held a Red Carpet Premiere event for a documentary series, “Empowered” hosted by Meg Ryan, featuring our organization. I am honored and humbled to lead this fabulous mission-driven company, and I invite everyone to watch the video on our website, bibett.org. Cheers, Devan
Devan Cross on the red carpet before receiving much-deserved recognition
Devan, congrats on the recognition and thanks for sending in a short update along with the photos! Looking sharp, I must say!
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summer and our entire four years together by the Bay. John was a proud and dedicated Surface Warfare Officer who served the Navy with great commitment. John had the highest level of integrity and was a great mentor to many people. Even after transitioning to the private sector, John continued to give back through his active membership in the North Carolina and Annapolis Alumni Chapters. He also served as a Blue and Gold officer and was a member of the 7th Battalion. Beyond that John and Monica volunteered in many different capacities within their local community. After his military career, John earned an MBA from the University of Maryland and devoted over 25 years to IBM. His impact was far-reaching—his boss flew all the way from London to attend his funeral and speak at the Celebration of Life, illustrating how John continued to impress those around him professionally. John positively influenced countless lives—family, friends, coworkers, prospective Midshipmen, and veterans alike. In some ways, it feels like John was taken home by the Lord to serve at a higher level because he was such a great human being and a man of deep faith. Rob Atha shared the following comments about John: “Jonesy” left us too early, but he aced the exercise. His life shows he had the right values in all those areas. He was a great husband, father, brother and son. He was also a great friend. He was a successful, ethical professional. He was a dedicated Catholic who was very involved in his church and gave back to his community. All who
’93: 5th Company with wives having drinks before dinner at the Army-Navy Country Club
’93: Night out before on the eve of the Army-Navy Game. L to r; Karl Hill, Finn Bishop (Steve Bishop’s son), Shogo Cottrell, Kevin Hanson, Ken Ubial, Chip Wyre, Pat Hittle, Lou Yepez, Darryl Platz, John Baltes, Steve Bishop and Steve Delanty
93/94 CLASS NEWS 94 Header Continued Sec’y: Mr. Adam S. Kinnear e: adamkinnear@1994.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9441/feed
’93: (L to R) Larry Young, Ben Fitchett, Justin Richards, Eric Winter, Brad Kinkead, Marc Genualdi, Jeff Eggers, Jeff Carpenter, Jim Delaroderie, Luis Molina, Joe Ireton and Bob Kuberski.
Greetings ’94. I have only received a couple of things to update the column, so we’ll jump right in it. This first was from John Rossi: M Wanted to pass on that we recently celebrated my promotion to a second star as a Rear Admiral in the US Navy and took over as the Program Executive Officer for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons procuring capabilities for the Navy and Marine Corps. Here are a couple of pictures to choose from the change of command and promotion ceremonies.
’93: (L to r) Eric Winter, Luis Molina, Joe Ireton, Jeff Eggers, Larry Young, Ben Fitchett, Jim Delaroderie, Jeff Carpenter, Mike Favetti, Tom Schmidt, Eric Brendan, Justin Richards, Paul Schimpf, Ryan Christopherson, Bill Cushman, Ken Dehan and John Boone. Not pictured Gerald Raines and Chester McMillan
had the honor to know him were lucky. We members of the HERD were blessed to have become his brothers. Twelve members of the 33rd Company traveled to Annapolis for the funeral, along with several other classmates, and even a couple of members of the Class of ‘93-1: Perry Cameron ‘92 and Mike Davis ‘92 John is survived by his wife, Monica, and daughter, Abigail. At the Celebration of Life, we had the honor of meeting several family members, including his mother, his brothers, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and high school friends. John was laid to rest in Newport News, Virginia, on 8 November near his son, Augustine, and father, Roosevelt Sr., Brad Kinkead, Jeff Carpenter, Larry Young, Jim Delaroderie, and Eric Winter served as pallbearers. Two weeks later, 17 members of the 33rd Company gathered at the Naval Academy Club in John’s memory. Many hadn’t seen each other in 32 years. While we mourned the loss of a dear friend, it was uplifting to reconnect and catch up. John’s passing brought us back together, and we are committed to meeting annually moving forward. John’s wife, Monica, joined us at the club, and I believe she knows that although John is gone, 27 members of the 33rd Company are just a phone call away if she or Abigail ever needs anything. John will forever be our brother. Thank you, Eric Winter
Eric, thanks again for sending in a very nice write-up. I joined IBM in 2018 and while I was interviewing, I reached out to John and he was super helpful and even continued to assist me as a new-hire to get acclimated. Fair winds and following seas, John. Thanks again for the updates! Carpe Diem — Shogo
’94
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 2.05% Pres: CDR John B. (Jack) Downes, USN (Ret.) e: johnbdownes@gmail.com Vice Pres/Corr Sec’y: Mrs. Margaret (Dotolo) Aden e: margaret.aden@gmail.com Treas: Mr. Eric P. (Mitch) Mitchell e: ericpridemitchell@hotmail.com
’94: COC and promotion MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 89
94/02 CLASS NEWS
Short and to the point. Thanks Admiral. You’re in luck. I didn’t have to choose and added all the pictures. The next update I received was 35th company’s own Jason Berger: M 35th company had a wonderful Kentucky Bourbon/Horse Racing and Skeet Shooting trip with eleven ’94 class members and their plus ones.
’94: 35th Company celebrates
Feel free to send them my way at adamkinnear@1994.usna.com Or post to the ’94 class page on Facebook with a #shipmate and I’ll add that to the next column. Until next time. Beat Army! — Adam
’02
Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 2.30% Pres: Kate (Kranz) Jordan e: katherine.kranz@2002.usna.com
Great update Jason. Looks like you all had a blast. And the last update is from your humble secretary. Randy Stoker returned to Norfolk to watch his daughter, a recruited basketball player at Appalachian State, play in a game against the Old Dominion Monarchs. I had the pleasure of joining him at the game and catching up.
Vice Pres: Elizabeth (Kreft) Brienza Treas: Rob Ballard Sec’y: Mike Johnson e: johnson.michael.a@gmail.com At-Large Directors: Lauren Coia Friedman and David Gravseth Send Submissions to: johnson.michael.a@gmail.com Class Website: www.usna2002.org LinkedIn: USNA Class of 2002 LinkedIn Class Website: https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/3900492 Facebook Group: USNA ’02 (For classmates and spouses) myUSNA app: In the Apple App Store & online: https:// myusna.com Go to Groups, Class of 2002
ARMY workout to make sure I wasn’t around and leaving me with MIR coveralls. Their goal was to force me to do XOI in SDBs, thankfully I had stashed a flight deck uniform to get by. Overall, it was a great week, proud to sing second! We carved out time in the schedule to get all USNA grads on the flight deck for a picture in front of the Big 4, I was the lone ‘02 rep as we were led by Captain Jason Tumlinson (married to Natalie Schultz ‘04), Colonel Caleb Hyatt ‘01 along with CDR Nate ‘Skids’ Browne ‘04, CDR Sam Curlee ‘09, CDR Janet Voneiff ‘11, Major David ‘Donny’ Tuck ‘09, LCDR Patricia Wilson ‘14, Capt Taylor Arbour ‘21, LT Bennet Ellington ‘19, Capt Elijah Kilmer ‘19, LT Pat McInerney ‘21, LT Grace Hove ‘21, LT Dan Gomex ‘17, LT Joe ‘WORM’ Rodgers ‘16, LT Joe Vogeney ‘19, LT Ethan Singer ‘20, LT Jodi Cullhost ‘16, Maj Ryan Ledandowski ‘16, Maj Nick Ernest ‘13, Capt Jon Pydrowski ‘19, Maj Sean Dzjerzanowski ‘11, Capt Don Koomar ‘19, LCDR Lindsey Darling ‘14, LCDR James Mannier ‘14, ENS Timo Perez ‘24, ENS Ceci Ballesteros ‘23, LTJG Christian Williams ‘23, Capt Mitchell Gunter ‘17, 1Lt Lucy Ackerman ‘22, 2Lt Daily ‘23 and 2Lt Chase Brahaney ‘23. – Eli ‘Whiz’ Owre
Virtual Memorial Hall: Thank you, Patrick McConnell: http://www.usnamemorialhall.org
I am always looking for content for the class column. Some examples would be promotions, reunions, get togethers, graduations, or inaugurations. We are also getting to the point where the grandkids are arriving. Send in those baby pictures so we can see what the class of ’50 is going to look like. 90 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Greetings, Classmates! First, thank you to Eli “Whiz” Owre for this fantastic update: M ’02, The only place better to spend Army week than at USNA is underway! Onboard Boxer we were conducting a work-up as BOXARG prepares to deploy with the 11th MEU. I’m certain we generated a lot of spirit that week, with JOPA messing with ‘the damned XO’ throughout. They banded together to steal all my flight suits by making up a fake BEAT
Whiz Skids
02/02 CLASS NEWS
Joe Houston
That afternoon, I visited the USNA Cemetery and Columbarium to remember Matt Freeman, Ken Neptun, Charles Harris, Pat Skora, and Chris Cortez. I have gotten to know Joe Fagan, ‘02-13, USNA Director of Memorial Affairs, who shared that he has seen midshipmen doing pushups next to Matt’s headstone. Joe, thank you for passing that along, as well as for your continued service at USNA, ensuring that our fallen shipmates are honored where our journeys began together.
’02: USNA grad photo Army Week
The Bridge
Thank you, Whiz! Also on Army Week: Wreaths Across America Day took place on December 13, 2025, which marked 20 years since the death of Nick Juron and his fellow crew of VENOM 505 (LT Chris Snyder (‘02-2) and AW2 John Kaye). That morning, I visited Arlington National Cemetery, including the Memorial Markers for Nick and Rich Andersen, as well as the gravesite of Joe Houston. From December 11-13 at Naval Station Mayport, HSM-48 Vipers honored VENOM 505 with a 5.05 run, memorial ceremony, and other events. On the ’02 Facebook page, Kevin Friel shared photos and a video from the memorial ceremony – thank you for sharing that, Kevin.
Matt Freeman Nick Juron
Rich Andersen
Matt Freeman, other side
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 91
02/03 CLASS NEWS
’03
Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 0.76% Pres: LtCol Lisa (Steinmetz) Cordonnier, USMC e: lisacords03@gmail.com Vice Pres: CDR Fernando R. Reyes, USN e: delux1981@gmail.com Treas: CDR Megan Barnett, USN e: mmbarnett03@msn.com Sec’y: Heather M. (Garland) Selig e: heather.selig@2003.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9450/feed Class Website: http://2003.usnaclasses.net/ Ken Neptun
Webmaster: CDR Kevin Hagan, USN e: kevin.r.hagan@gmail.com Shipmate Submissions: Kenneth Michel e: kennethmichel03@gmail.com
Charles Harris
Pat Skora
Chris Cortez
Until we read again, Mike Johnson ’02 Detachment Arlington, VA johnson.michael.a@gmail.com
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’03, sorry to break our streak of blank Shipmate posts, but it has taken some time to sanitize, redact, and downgrade the official classification of this post to SHIPMATE USE ONLY. In the spring of 2016, Craig Ruhs (NAPS ’99), Joey Snyder, and I schemed up a yearly hunt where shipmates would fly into Dallas-Fort Worth and collectively head to Henrietta, Texas, for a four-day gathering. The event would include drinks, wild game meat, fire pits fueled by gathered Texas mesquite, and guns, lots of them. The event is known to the few and elite as Captain’s Mast. Over the years, Captain’s Mast has grown to host an average of 15 people annually, with attendees traveling from as far away as San Diego, Norfolk, Washington, DC, and Boston. Matt Wilson once flew in from Hawaii for just 24 hours, long enough to get completely smashed for ten straight hours, sleep a solid eight (much needed with five kids at home), hunt, and still find time to throw up behind one of the local vintage Corvette club cars in front of the local breakfast diner. Attendees Bobby Cherneski (NAPS ’99), Mike Riismandel (NAPS ’99), Dan Neverosky (NAPS ’99), Joey Snyder, and Guy Budinsack (NAPS ’99) harvested their first deer. In the true spirit of hunter gatherers, we eat everything we harvest. Much like the PRT, we go beyond standard FDA freshness standards, embracing acts such as KTM (Kill to Mouth). Mike Taylor famously authored the KTM PQS (suggested implementation into the Class of 2030 Reef Points is pending). Traditions have been built year over year for the past nine years. At the five-year mark, the local DFW crew, expanded by then to include Eric Cabana (NAPS ’99) and Chandler Simms, introduced camouflage brown letter sweaters with black “N”s as the annual swag. Letter sweaters were awarded for showing up to the Henrietta “training session,” while N
stars were issued for confirmed kills of turkey, feral hog, coyote, rabbit, dove, duck, and the infamous little piglet Budinsack smoked. All were eaten, with the exception of the coyotes. So, if you see one of these letter sweaters rolling around at an Army Navy game, you will know who has truly stood the watch at the tip of the spear in Henrietta, Texas. Evenings are spent around the fire pits eating harvested animals from the property or other hunts, including nilgai steaks, venison sausage, and elk burgers, or watching another Navy first down or a November UFC fight. Craig “Iron Chef” Ruhs has steadily upped his game over the years and has rightfully earned his redneck Michelin star for wild game cuisine. As we have grown in wisdom, age, and rank, we have begun honoring shipmates who have retired from military service. Honorees to date include Matt Wilson, Dan Neverosky, and Austin Gullett (NAPS ’99), each presented with Texas sized belt buckles commemorating their service. With keen attention to detail, you will notice references to the bayonet belt buckle (Fidelity is up and Obedience is down), as well as service timelines that stop at 19 years, hence the nod to NAPS callouts. Next year, we will honor the retirements of Kevin Shuchuma and one senior O-5, in the likes of Mike McIlravy (NAPS ’99, BM1 Kumpf trained). Henrietta DD-214s were also issued to Edson Greenwood, Steve Vecchio, Patrick Fleming, Wes Blackwell (NAPS ’99), Mike Sahag, Jessie Mallard (USCGA ’03/NAPS ’99), Todd Ruhs, Joel Starzmann, Quaashie Caldwell (NAPS ’99), Sal Pasquarelli, and Alex Creighton. (Apologies if I missed anyone.) We also give back to the next generation. Bobby Cherneski’s son, Brooks Cherneski (USMMA ’30), joined us for his very first hunt and, in true Captain’s Mast fashion, wasted no time harvesting his first deer, feral hog, and coyote all during his first Captain’s Mast. More importantly, Brooks experienced firsthand what 26, and in some cases 27, years of friendship, trust, and shared service look like. Next year will mark ten years of Captain’s Mast. What began as a few shipmates looking for an excuse to reconnect has become something far more meaningful. It is a living tradition rooted in shared hardship, laughter, service, and loyalty. Each year we gather to remember where we came from, honor those who have stood the watch before us, and make room at the fire for those who will carry it forward. It is, without question, one of the moments I look forward to most every year as we load vehicles, pick up shipmates, pull on our brown letter sweaters, and strengthen what truly matters most, the enduring link in the chain.
03/04 CLASS NEWS
’03: 2022 Brown Letter Sweaters. Mike Sahag, Bobby Cherneski, Craig Ruhs, Sal Pasquarelli, Edson Greenwood, Joey Snyder, Dan Montgomery, Mike Riismandel (NAPS ’99), Todd Ruhs, Wes Blackwell and Austin Gullett.
’03: Fidelity is up, Obedience is down. Texas sized retirement belt buckle presented to honor shipmates’ service.
Dan Montgomery “Monty” USNA ’03, NAPS ’99
’04
Life Membership: 95% Donor Participation: 0.97% Pres: Jeff McLean e: jeffreyjmclean@gmail.com Vice Pres: Shannon Webb e: shannon.revell@gmail.com Treas: Jarett Berke e: jarettMberke@gmail.com ’03: 2025 Assembled for Noon Meal Formation. Bottom row; Craig Ruhs, Kevin Shuchuma, Matt Wilson, Mike McIlravy, Mike Taylor, Dan Neverosky. Top row: Brooks Cherneski (USMMA ’30), Bobby Cherneski, Quaashie Caldwell (NAPS ’99), Mike Sahag, Todd Ruhs, Dan Montgomery, Chandler Simms, Guy Budinsack, Mike Riismandel (NAPS ’99) and Joey Snyder.
Sec’y: Deni Baykan e: deniz.m.baykan@gmail.com Comms Officer: Jimmy Morris e: jjmorris2004@gmail.com Philanthropic and Inclusion Officer: Kristen Murdock e: kristenmichele@gmail.com Operations Officer: Chris Jamison e: christopher.jamison2834@gmail.com Members at Large: Billy Hurley e: e: golfwjh@yahoo.com Dan Peters e: danpeters04@gmail.com Alexa (Bestoso) Hunter e: abest99@hotmail.com Class Engagement Committee Chair: Lauren Warren-Zecchin e: law8223@gmail.com Send Submissions to: classof2004usna@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9451/feed
Four shipmates at sunset following a successful hunt. Joey Snyder, Dan Neverosky, Bobby Cherneski and Craig Ruhs.
Alumnus Jack Hathaway ’04 Named Pilot for NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 Mission
Minutes before KTM. Steve Vecchio, Mike Taylor and Bobby Cherneski (’03).
DON’T SEE YOUR CLASS or CHAPTER HEADER?
Morning turkey hunt. Dan Neverosky, Mike McIlravy, Chandler Simms, Quaashie Caldwell (NAPS ’99), and Dan Montgomery.
Visit usna.com to look for your POC at: www.usna.com/FindAndConnect Let your class and chapter officers know you have news to share in Shipmate.
We are proud to highlight our classmate and distinguished NASA astronaut, Jack Hathaway ’04, as he prepares to fly on NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), slated for launch in February 2026. Jack’s exceptional career has included more than 2,500 flight hours in over 30 types MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 93
04/06 CLASS NEWS of aircraft and 39 combat missions, as well as a graduate from the prestigious Empire Test Pilots’ School in England and advanced strategic studies at the U.S. Naval War College. Since being selected to NASA’s 2021 Astronaut Candidate Class, Jack has completed rigorous astronaut training and is now preparing for his first spaceflight. On the Crew-12 mission, he will serve as pilot aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft alongside Mission Commander Jessica Meir (NASA), ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. Crew-12 marks the twelfth operational NASA Commercial Crew Program flight and will deliver the crew to the ISS for a longduration science expedition as part of Expedition 74/75. The mission supports ongoing research aimed at advancing human spaceflight capabilities and preparing for future exploration to the Moon and beyond. In the final days before launch, NASA hosted a series of pre-launch briefings that included Jack and his fellow astronauts, offering insights into mission goals and preparations. These events underscored the importance of international collaboration and cutting-edge technology in today’s human spaceflight endeavors. Jack’s journey from academy graduate to astronaut exemplifies the spirit of exploration and service that defines our alumni community. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to him and his family as he embarks on this historic mission!
’06
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 1.23% Pres: LCDR Adrienne A. Maeser, USN (Ret.) Vice Pres: CDR Josh Angichiodo, USN (Ret.) Treas: CAPT (Sel) Joshua J. Larson, USNR Sec’y: Ashley (Pelzek) Ferguson Send Shipmate articles to: usnaclassof2006@gmail.com and ashley.pelzek@gmail.com Send reunion questions to: usna2006reunion@gmail.com
A quick personal update: Dave Wrigley and I coached our sons in flag football together again this year, and we won the Arlington County championships. Dave is currently stationed at the Pentagon with me, where he is working at DOT&E. I am thrilled to share that he was recently selected for Major Command and is headed to Carrier Air Wing 7 this June. Congratulations, Dave!
’05
Life Membership: 98% Donor Participation: 1.40% 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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9452/feed Website: 2005.usnaclasses.net
’05, Great seeing everyone at the reunion! On behalf of everyone in attendance, I want to extend a sincere thank you to the volunteers who helped plan and execute our 20th. It was a memorable event, and your hard work made it all possible.
94 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Best, Reed Kitchen
CLASS SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES Send to: classnews@usna.com
2026 Shipmate
ISSUE:
DUE DATE:
July-August ’26
27 May ’26
September-October ’26
29 Jul ’26
November-December ’26
23 Sept ’26
Class website: https://www.usnaclassof20006.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9453/feed
Celebrating 50 Years of Women at the U.S. Naval Academy: Class of 2006 Ready to Show Up From April 16–19, the U.S. Naval Academy will host a landmark celebration honoring 50 years of women at USNA —a historic milestone recognizing the courage, leadership, and legacy of women who paved the way and those who continue to serve. This four-day celebration will bring together alumnae from every decade for reflection, connection, and inspiration through panels, programming, and signature events. It is both a tribute to the trailblazers who entered Bancroft Hall in 1976 and a celebration of the generations who followed, shaping the Naval Academy and the Fleet in powerful ways. For the Class of 2006, this celebration is especially meaningful. We are among the generations shaped directly by the 1976 law that opened the doors of the Naval Academy to women, and our class stands as part of the living legacy of that historic decision. We benefited from the courage of those who came before us—and it is our responsibility and honor to continue carrying that legacy forward. As we mark two decades since our own graduation, our goal is bold: to be the most represented class of the decade. The Class of 2006 embodies service, resilience, leadership, and lifelong connection, and this celebration is the perfect moment to come together and show exactly what our class is all about. We cannot wait to reconnect with classmates, stand alongside the women who paved the way, and support the midshipmen carrying the torch forward. April will be more than a reunion—it will be a statement. The Class of 2006 is proud, present and ready to show up. Please reach out to Sharon Wildberger e: swildberger@ttrsir.com or Adrienne Maeser e: Adrienne.a.maeser@gmail.com with any travel, event, or other questions!
’07
Life Membership: 99% Donor Participation: 1.34% Pres: Brady Beauchamp Vice Pres: LtCol Benjamin Tuck, USMC e: Benjamin.Tuck07@gmail.com Treas: CDR Patrick Sullivan, USN e: patrick.timothy.sullivan@gmail.com Sec’y: CDR Dan Bellomo, USNR e: dbellomo@umich.edu Send Articles to: classofficersUSNA2007@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9454/feed
We still want your submissions! Send in your articles on babies, weddings, change of commands, business openings, graduations, jail time, etc. We will pretty much submit anything. Send us some updates! Please send your updates to Dan at dbellomo@umich.edu. SHIPMATES — Are you interested in helping to plan and execute our TWENTIETH reunion? Are you local to Annapolis and able to help with some logistics? If so, please email Dan at dbellomo@umich.edu. With your help, we can make our reunion an awesome and memorable experience for everyone! Our first note comes from Troy Vantrease: M Patrick Lakusta and I (Troy) just finished up TSTA/Group Sail on TR with the Sidewinders. A few years ago, somebody at Millington decided it was a good idea to let two ‘07 grads run an F-35C squadron, with Patrick as CO and me as his XO at VFA-86. After 5 dets in 5 months (including a surprise east coast airshow on the GHWB), we finally took the squadron to sea for its first iteration of cyclic ops in the F-35C (with a surprise San Diego port call to break up a month at sea).
Pat and Troy, 2007 Shipmates
Our next update is relative to our continued Link in the Chain efforts. M On 20Feb2026, Pat Sullivan (our Treasurer and now back on the yard as USNA faculty), on behalf of our class, presented our annual sponsorship check to 22nd Company. This is a continuation of our ongoing connection with 22nd Company and the Class of 1957. Pat presented 22nd Company with a check for $1000 to support their midshipmen morale programs and events. Big thanks to Pat for
07/08 CLASS NEWS weaving his way through the admin process this year and for ensuring this event occurred! Big congratulations to CDR Michelle Matthews (28th Co) and her family for taking command of USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) on Dec 12, 2025 in Norfolk, VA. The officers and crew of DDG 95, also known as the “Delta Dragons”, are completing a midlife modernization prior to heading back out to sea. The good vibes of the Change of Command ceremony continued on throughout the following 36 hours as Navy football defeated Army during the 126th Army Navy Game! 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.
’08
Life Membership: 97% Donor Participation: 1.01% Pres: Donald H. Horner III Vice Pres: Gerald Brooks Treas: LCDR Daniel E. Foose, USN Sec’y: LCDR Dianna Dietrich Bunt, USN e: dianna.dietrich@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9455/feed
Dear Naval Aviation - One Last Time: Next month, I’ll fly my last Navy flight. One last time I’ll zip up my green, well-worn flight suit that when held against the sunlight, glimmers with a faded, translucent sheen - the true mark of a seasoned pilot. I’ll lace up my brown Bates boots, heels worn smooth, leather cracked and purposefully unpolished - a humbling reminder that I too am a bit worn and in need of polish. I’ll pull up my zipper to a respectful amount below my chest because only NFOs and Air Force Pilots zip it up any further; and, after a quick brief and a preflight Navy-strength coffee, I will walk the patriotic flight line filled with military-grey P-8s, each with the national insignia boldly emblazoned on its fuselage, silhouetted against the Jacksonville sunrise. I still can’t believe I get to do this. I am nostalgic to say the least. Flying for the Navy was a dream discovered, one I didn’t know I had. God has a funny way of doing that, of bringing you on an adventure only He can orchestrate. I wanted to play baseball in college and exercise quick leadership upon leaving the Academy, which likely meant going to a boat. My sister, a former SWO, wisely warned that “was a terrible idea” and that “for the love of God, do not go SWO.” So, I chose aviation and spent my career successfully avoiding the boat. Thank God for wise counsel. Something inside me embraces last times, almost as if it’s a spiritual duty to recognize and cherish them. I suppose it’s my way of honoring endings with a respectful and
unspoken thank you. From my last Thanksgiving with my grandmother, to my last game on the pitcher’s mound, to my last flight in the Navy, there seems to be an innate desire to soulfully capture these conclusions, to savor them - to remember slowly, to reflect meaningfully, to appreciate fully. So, this is my attempt to do just that, to bid farewell to Naval Aviation - an ode to the orange and white trainers and the venerable grey fleet aircraft, a thank you for memories gained, lessons learned and relationships made. To the T-34, thank you for teaching me the basics, like how to fly straight and level and how to contain vomit inside multiple trash bags in the South Texas heat; for how to eat ginger root, ginger snaps, ginger candy, and ginger anything in a feeble attempt to remedy airsickness; for the thrill of my first solo and the fear of not knowing exactly how to get back to the airport; for teaching me how to spin, flip, dive, roll, fly upside down, fly next to another airplane, fly a point to point in the wrong and right direction, and fly a holding pattern based upon the strange contortion of my fingers with one eye closed. And finally, thank you for driving me to the back-row of a quiet church, alone and in a desperate search to overcome airsickness and the intimidation of Primary Flight Training; for leading me to a pivotal moment of internal crisis where I searched and found direction, calling, guidance and comfort. To the TC-12, thank you for the gift of two engines and a copilot, for teaching me the intricacies of asymmetric thrust and the luxuries of having two engines. Thank you for space where my 6-foot 4-inch frame no longer had to fold itself into a small, glass cockpit, and for instructors who wore ball caps instead of helmets. Thank you for making flying fun and for showing me how a seasoned instructor can be thorough yet still laid-back and kind. To the P-3, you smelly, four-blades-offreedom bastard, thank you for excruciatingly long preflights and teaching me that attitude and energy matter, especially on extended deployments or high-tempo operations in desert environments; for teaching me that an unexpected detachment after a six-month deployment can be either an opportunity or an adversity, the choice is yours. Thank you for the gift of a crew and flight engineers, a special and nearly extinct breed of aviator who, like sage monks, know answers and find solutions before questions are asked or problems occur. Thank you for the best naps I’ve ever had in an aged and supple mattress suspended over the crew rest table, where the gentle motion of four in-sync propellers can rock one to sleep as if in a cradle. Thank you for airborne, crockpot Thanksgiving meals and foreign intercepts off the coast of China. Thank you for teaching me that it goes a long way when you make and offer coffee to your crew. Thank you for journeys to Africa, Italy, the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and even the Middle East. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 95
08/08 CLASS NEWS Thank you for the shared satisfaction of an 8 a.m. beer after a mission complete with crew members. Thank you for ICS conversations that were sometimes deep and often inappropriate, the perfect juxtaposition for rich and diverse relationships. And finally, to the P-8, we’ve been together for nearly 14 adventurous years. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to become an instructor. Thank you for teaching me that such a slick airplane cannot, unlike the P-3, slow down and go down at the same time. Thank you for allowing me to overfly the airport at 8000 feet due to a lack of descent planning and for instructors who safely and patiently allowed me to make such errors. Thank you for teaching me that there are all types of instructors, but the great ones allow room for mistakes and admit when they make them as well; this is real learning and teaching. Thank you for the feeling of helping a student get a little better on each approach and a touch more confident with each lap in the landing pattern. Thank you for letting the squadron escape Jacksonville on the heels of a major hurricane where the crosswind limits had to be articulated over the tower frequency, for numerous trips to Hawaii, California, and Washington State; for Grand Canyon flyovers, Navy Football flyovers, and touch and goes at Tricities Regional Airport where cows and pastures greet you on final approach; for how to fly with confidence and personality; for how to remain outwardly calm while internally
96 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
panicked by a student’s (or my own) error. Thank you for allowing me to pack a surfboard and fly to one of the premiere surf destinations in the world with the closest of friends; for boondoggles and late nights in Alaska with bourbon and conversation and moose sightings and epic fishing trips full of salmon and Sailor Jerry’s. Thank you for all-night flights in branded cowboy boots. Thank you for teaching me to think outside the box and know, like all things, we are a small part of a much bigger picture. After 17 years of Navy flying, I recognize a flight line stroll with an early, east-coast sunrise is a moment of serenity that cannot be replicated. I know I will miss the sweet, pungent smell of jet fuel combined with the roar of military engines. I’ll miss the enthusiasm of a student on their first flight in the P-8 and the landing pattern in Jacksonville, a sequence long since committed to muscle memory, where the view of the meandering Saint John’s River with a downtown background somehow feels like home. I’ll miss most of everything relating to being airborne and nothing of being on the ground. Most of all…I’ll miss the people. Flying for the Navy was more than an occupation. It was an identity and an attitude; a spirit forged from generations past that will continue long after I shut down the engines for a final time. I like to think, hope, and pray I leave it a bit better than I found it. In truth though, this isn’t a thank you to these
platforms or even Naval Aviation. Instead, it’s a thank you to those who allowed me to fail, an homage to those who mentored me, who defended me and gave me chances, some deserved and many unearned. From former Skippers and instructors to multiple aircrews, contractors, fellow pilots and friends, to the maintainers and the man upstairs, to the generations that wrote manuals in blood and to the classmates and colleagues who paid a much steeper price than time away from home, I am forever grateful. It seems fitting that every Navy plane I’ve flown is now retired except for the P-8. They have all flown their final flights, completed their last missions, and served their ultimate purpose. I suppose all good things must come to an end, or maybe instead, all good things shape you in their divine season and with any luck, you shape them too. So, with gold wings on my chest and a tattered American flag patch on my left shoulder, I’ll likely flare high on my final landing and land a little long, taxi via the one taxiway at Navy Jax, get a bit misty-eyed as I walk down the air-stairs, look back at the trusty P-8, and call it a day … one last time. Farewell and Fly Navy - a dream discovered and a dream complete. With profound gratitude, Jacob Pitchford
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 Treas: David Patton ’92 p: 831-917-7750; e: david.patton@live.com Exec Assist: Rosalyn Bell (son Joseph ’25) e: usna.ala@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9480/feed
Over 60 Alumni, parents, friends and candidates gathered at The Fennec in Birmingham on 13 December to watch Navy football BEAT ARMY and take home the Commanderin-Chief trophy!! It was an honor to “sing second” once again and end our event with a stirring rendition of “Navy Blue and Gold”. A great time of fun and fellowship was enjoyed by all. Alumni in attendance included RADM (Ret.) Jack Natter ‘62, Harb Moore (UNC) ’66, Roy Smith ’73, Lee Yarberry ’78, Craig Baker ’81, Greg Hess ’85, Kevin Patton ’85, Andy Trotta ’85, Kristin Bakkegard ’88, Ken Blalock ’89, David Patton ’92, John Vareen ’00, Dr. Thomas Cunningham ’01 and Greer Lynch ’04. Special thanks to Rosalyn Bell (mother of Joseph ’25) for organizing our event and to Steve and Ramona Holley (parents of Hagen ’29) for hosting us at The Fennec!
Alabama Chapter: Alumni, family, and friends gather to pull for Navy.
Alabama Chapter: Navy sings second!!
Arizona
BGO Area Coordinator: Susan Wester e: sjw456@icloud.com
Southern Arizona Chapter
Pres: John McCarthy p: 520-241-7943; e: j.r.mccarthy2@gmail.com Sec’y: Jim Hillenmayer ’73 e: jhillenmayer73@msn.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9571/feed Website: http://southernarizona.usnachapters.com
While most of the country was shivering through tough weather, Army and Navy alumni gathered under the warm, bright sun at a local Tucson pub to watch the annual football classic. With the superior record going into the game, the Southern AZ USNAA Chapter was very confident, so the close score was a big surprise. But the mids scored late in the game, sending the Navy contingent home with all smiles, pulling out a 17-16 victory and securing the Commander in Chief Trophy for the second year in a row.
Southern AZ Chapter: Members celebrate Navy’s win over Army
In January, the Chapter got together for a luncheon and a fascinating presentation on handwriting analysis by Mimi Tims, the widow of Bob Tims ’57. Mimi got interested in handwriting decades ago and became a certified graphologist, which enabled her to assist law enforcement in identifying suspects based on
their handwriting. Mimi also used those skills in the academic world. Sadly, with the advent of the internet and electronic communication, cursive writing is on the decline and so is the need for handwriting analysis. But Mimi’s stories of the “good old days” in graphology and the techniques she used made for a most enjoyable and informative presentation.
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 97
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter President John McCarthy presents Mimi Tims with a Chapter coin for her presentation on handwriting analysis
The Chapter has luncheons scheduled for the next few months and will wrap up the spring season with a dinner in mid-May.
California San Diego Chapter Pres: Debbie Balsley ’93
Vice Pres: Michael Philbrook ’83 Treas: Jacqueline Plumaker ‘18 Sec’y: David Shanes ’88 e: secretary@usnaaasd.com Corr Sec’y: Charlie Carey ’70 p: 619-589-0945; e: cdcarey@1970.USNA.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9562/feed
My wife volunteers at the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) in San Diego and we attended their holiday party. During the ceremony, CAPT Barbette Lowndes ’80 USN (Ret.) became the 40th recipient of the Mrs. Grace Glenwood Higginson Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious distinction recognizes CAPT Lowndes and her sustained meritorious service to Sailors, Marines, and their families at NMCRS San Diego, California, from November 2006 to December 2025. For nearly two decades, she devoted more than 1,350 hours to the Society’s trademark Budget for Baby® (B4B) program. Congratulations, CAPT Lowndes! Here are some pictures from our Annual Army-Navy Golf Tournament!
Website: http://usnaaasd.com BGO Area Coordinator: Mike Philbrook ’83 e: michael.philbrook@1983.usna.com
Welcome to 2026 and America’s 250th birthday! We had busy times with our Army-Navy watch party, the Army-Navy Golf Tournament, and the Liberty Bowl. See the photo of the members of our stellar, ship-shape, San Diego Chapter Board:
Navy Football ended their AMAZING season 11-2 with a 35-13 win over the Cincinnati Bearcats at the Liberty Bowl and January 2 in Memphis.
From a watch party at the Royal Cigar Lounge in San Diego: Tom Gadzala (1975), Guest 1, Guest 2, Jim Tenuto (1975), Brian Grana (1996), Guest 3
Our first happy hour of 2026 was held at The Yard House in Mission Valley, home of one of San Diego’s better happy hours! Check out all of the amazing events that we have going on at myusna.com, San Diego’s chapter is here: https://myusna.com/ topics/9562/home - Come and enjoy the camaraderie of alumni, family, and friends! We move them around San Diego to give everyone an opportunity to have a long or short drive! Go Navy, beat Army! San Diego Chapter: L-R back row to front row Randy Farley (1980), Keith Kitagawa (1992), Mike Philbrook (1983), Barbette Lownes (1980), Rick Smith (1971), Debbie Balsley (1993), David Rodriguez (1978), Dan Archer (1980), Dave Kurtz (1996) and Terry Tilton (1973)
98 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
CHAPTER NEWS
Mike Burkhart ’68 with wife Georgia, John Jackson ’68 and friend Ann Devers
Jeff checking out the deionization process of conservation and restoration. This is just one step of many to reveal original pirate booty!
Colorado Chapter: Army-Navy Watch Party
Colorado
BGO Area Coordinator: Marcial Dumlao e: coolpersistencecoach@gmail.com
Colorado Chapter
Pres: Mike Sharp ’94 mike@1994.usna.com Sec’y: Matthew Duffey e: duffeymatthew@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9501/feed Website: http://usnacolorado.com BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Dick Eason ’84, USN (Ret.) h: 720-747-4615; c: 720-6847323 e: dick.eason@gmail.com
Greetings, Shipmates! It has been a whirlwind start to 2026 for the Colorado Chapter. While the pace of life in the Rockies seems faster than that guy in jeans straight lining Rosie’s Run, it has been great to see so many of you at our recent gatherings. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for our Army-Navy Watch Party. The energy in the room was electric, proving once again that distance from Annapolis only makes our “Go Navy!” cheers louder. It was a fantastic afternoon of camaraderie, sea stories, and shared nerves.
For those of you heading into the high country to catch some turns, you’ve likely noticed the scenery looks a bit more “Naval Support Activity Bahrain” than “Rocky Mountain High.” We aren’t saying the snowpack is low, but I recently spotted a 10th Mountain Division soldier wandering through Vail with a canteen, a tube of SPF 50, and a look of total confidence. The coverage is about as thin as Army’s pass defense. At this rate, we’ll be swapping the skis for hiking boots before ship selection. As we continue through a busy season, please continue to look to MyUSNA for updates. We will soon be retiring our legacy website. Keep an eye out for quarterly updates, local happy hours and networking opportunities. Beat Army! Duff ‘10
Jeff Frye ‘83
Chris and Diana ecstatic about the weekend events…the Shipwreck Tour of course and preparing to send their son Nicholas - USNA ’25 Grad [NFO] off to Pensacola. Enjoy the sights, sounds and great eats of our Delaware beaches! Congratulations and Blue Sky’s Beronio family!
Delaware
BGO Area Coordinator: Daniel Bates e: daniel.bates@bgo.usna.com
Delaware Chapter
Pres: Chris Dierkes ’85 c: 302-540-0940; e: christopherfdierkes@yahoo.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9506/feed
Army-Navy Watch Party
Looking ahead, please mark your calendars for the Arleigh Burke Dinner on 25 April. This evening is a cornerstone of our chapter’s calendar, honoring the legacy of “31-Knot Burke” and his ties to our rugged state. Expect a night of excellent food, distinguished guest speakers, and the best company in the Front Range.
Shipwreck Museum DiscoverSea Yo-ho-ho! Pirate history truly came ashore 1 November 2025 steeped in legend, lore, and local legacy. From the moment we stepped into the world of pirates and shipwrecks, we were transported through centuries of maritime mystery and coastal intrigue. Our informative tour vividly uncovered the bold adventures of history’s most notorious pirates while catching up with new and familiar faces.
Chris Beronio ’95 with wife Diana
Pillage and Plunder! …Diane don’t break a tooth! Well, tell us, is it genuine or counterfeit? Vicky and Margorie are eyeing the even bigger treasure under their noses….
Diane Durban ‘81, Vicky Gordey-Stith ’86 and Marjorie Rawhouser ’84
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 99
CHAPTER NEWS Chapter Trustee: Enochia Anderson ’94 e: benochia@hotmail.com 50 Year+ Alumni Liaison: CDR Peter Garfield ’60, USN (Ret.) p: 904-314-9691; e: pjgarfield@comcast.net Website: jacksonville.usnachapters.net Chapter Email: jacksonvillenaaa@gmail.com Facebook Page: Jacksonville Chapter – Naval Academy Alumni Association myUSNA Page: https://myusna.com/topics/9525/home BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard O’Sullivan ’77, USN (Ret.) p: 407-687-6877; e: raaos@aol.com
Delaware Chapter: “Me Hardies” at Harpoon Hannas in Fenwick Island- Diane Durban ‘81, Mary Jane with husband Kevin Walsh ’78, Jeffrey Frye ‘83, Dennis Hicks with wife Marjorie Rawhouser ’84, Vicki Gordy-Stith ’86 with husband Bo ’86, Chris Dierkes ’85, Barb and husband Greg Pearsall ’74, David Stevens ’84 with wife Suzanne Bagas, MD and John Jackson ’66.
“You had me at ahoy!” “May your anchor be tight, your cork be loose, and your compass be true.”
The Chapter wrapped up an amazing football season with watch parties at our normal locations including Culhane’s (picture attached). In January, more than sixty people gathered for an Icemen’s Hockey game. The evening started with a VIP reception followed by some entertaining hockey.
Florida Jacksonville Chapter Pres: Jim Beatty ’83 p: 904 329 9609; e: jbeatty@wolf.com.mt
Vice Pres: Glen Hamilton ’85 e: glenhamilton@cbvfl.com Treas: Brian Schultz 95 e: searay2795@gmail.com Sec’y: Sec’y: David Waugh ’83 e: dwwdfw528@gmail.com Communication Director: LT Dusty Carwile ’20, USN e: carwile.dustin@gmail.com Henry Matlosz ’84 with wife Connie
Arrr!” “Every salty pirate needs a beautiful mermaid.”
Jacksonville Chapter Wife, Suzanne Bagas, MD with husband David Stevens ‘84
ALUMNI STORE Your source for class, club and chapter logo apparel and gifts. usna.com/shop. Jacksonville Chapter 100 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
The Chapter is conducting a membership drive. If live in the greater Jacksonville area and have not been contacted please reachout
CHAPTER NEWS to one of the Officers. We look forward to discussing the Chapter and ways to get everyone involved. Upcoming event: 10 March (1900) Men’s Lacrosse Team match at Jacksonville University. Watch MyUSNA and our Facebook page for more information. 16 April (tentative): We are in the planning stages for our annual luncheon. This year’s speaker is scheduled to be the new Athletic Director, Michael Kelly. More information to follow on MyUSNA and our Facebook page.
Pensacola Chapter
Suncoast Chapter
Vice Pres: John Maher ’74
Vice Pres: Alois “Al” Burda ’68 e: alburda3@verizon.net
Pres: Guy Purser ’74 e: Purserg@verizon.net; pensacolausnaaa@gmail.com Treas: Tom LaTurno ’74 Sec’y: Kathy McCartan ’85 Member at Large: Dave De Silva ’76 Communications: Matt Lassen ’13 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9549/feed Website: pensacola.usnachapters.net BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Kilton Kingsman ’06 e:kilton.kingsman@gmail.com
PENSACOLA CHAPTER
Congressional Service Academy Day Pensacola By Kathy McCartan ‘85
The USNA Pensacola Chapter Alumni hosted a Congressional Service Academy Day on 10 January 2026 at the National Naval Aviation Museum. The event was sponsored by Senate and Congressional offices in Northwest Florida and Southeast Alabama districts. The 3.5-hour program was a hit with potential candidates and their families as it provided a unique one-stop-shop opportunity to learn about application and nomination processes. While seated in the beautiful Blue Angels Atrium, the 300 attendees viewed informational presentations by Congressional staff and representatives from USNA, USMA, USAFA, USCGA, USMMA, NROTC, the National Flight Academy, and Marion Military Institute. Afterward, representatives manned display tables where they met with students and parents. Recent Service Academy and NROTC graduates were available to provide personal admissions process insights. Chapter President Guy Purser ’74 “resurrected” this once annual Chapter activity, Dick Folga ’70 chaired the event, Houston Jones ’74 was Emcee, and a number of other Pensacola Alumni managed IT, registered attendees, set up the room and most importantly engaged with young people to offer encouragement and answer questions. The Chapter intends to host the event again in the future.
Pres: George Thompson ’77 p: 757-810-9532; e: thompsongw77@gmaill.com
Treas: Elaine Thompson e: virgilielaine@gmail.com Sec’y: Vacant myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9510/feed Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usnaalumniflorida suncoastchapter BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Steve Swift ’87, USNR (Ret.) e: sswift@1987.usna.com
Shipmates: What a football season! 11-2 with an incredible and exciting come from behind victory over Army 17-16 in Baltimore. And then as an underdog Navy trounced Cincinnati 35-13 in the Liberty Bowl in Memphis. Our tailgate at Gecko’s for the Army game had over 50 Alumni and Spouses and Friends in attendance at Gecko’s having fun. Because we are “regulars”, Gecko’s has let us use their Signature Room as a private party room. See the next page for a photo of most of the attendees. The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda FL has a Wall of Warriors to honor local veterans who given uncommon service to our Country and Southwest Florida. This year, one of our own Florida Suncoast Chapter members was honored at the Military Heritage Museum’s annual Gala on 21 February 2026. Chosen for this year’s distinguished Wall of Warriors Award, Rear Admiral Lawrence C. Chambers ’52, USN (Ret.) is a trailblazer, a leader, a hero. Rear Admiral Chambers didn’t just serve his country - he broke barriers and made history at every turn during his distinguished 36-year military career. We all know him as Larry, but he was famous for several historic firsts: FIRST African American to command an attack squadron FIRST African American to command an aircraft carrier FIRST African American Naval Academy graduate to attain flag rank. His defining moment was in command of USS Midway during the evacuation of Saigon, where his exceptional leadership during this critical operation saved countless lives and has been featured in documentaries and publications worldwide. His legacy extends far beyond the military, continuing his distinguished career in corporate leadership and international operations, Rear Admiral Chambers paved the way for generations to follow. We are honored to have this extraordinary leader as a member of our Chapter.
STAY CONNECTED Find a Chapter. usna.com/FindAChapter
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 101
CHAPTER NEWS Frogman Swim Charity Event On January 18, eleven U.S. Naval Academy alumni participated in the annual Frogman 5K Swim, a nationally recognized endurance event sponsored by the Navy SEAL Foundation to honor fallen Navy SEALs and support Gold Star families. Together, these alumni exemplified service beyond the Yard - standing in remembrance, shared hardship, and enduring commitment to the families of the fallen. Suncoast Chapter: Army-Navy watch party
Don Aiken ‘78, Jane Lochner ‘84, Ken Carodine ‘82, and Tim LaGavre ‘61 doing “Beat Army” push-ups.
As many of you know, Snook Haven is closed for renovations but a February Chapter event is planned and in April we will return to TT’s Tiki Hut in Punta Gorda and will honor and celebrate Naval Academy Appointees in June. Watch for emails!
Women’s Basketball Team Picnic We gathered at Copeland Park for a picnic with the Navy Women’s Basketball Team, uniting midshipmen and alumni in fellowship and encouragement ahead of their game against USF - an enduring reminder that alumni support extends well beyond the Yard.
Pres: CDR Jane Lochner ’84, USN (Ret.) p: 301-832-6420; e: jane.lochner@gmail.com Sec’y: CAPT Chris Heath ’72, USNR (Ret.) e: christopherheath.fl@gmail.com Comms Director/BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Steve Swift ’87, USNR (Ret.) e: sswift@1987.usna.com
myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9578/feed Website: http://tampabay.usnachapters.net/
FUTURE EVENTS 7 March Women’s Lacrosse @ USF 8 March Candidate Information Event @ Picnic Island Park Nick Pinkston ’04 Chapter Secretary Tampa Bay Chapter – a Distinguished Chapter in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023
MyUSNA
Tampa Bay Chapter
Chapter platform: https://myusna.com Select Groups, Tampa Bay, and request to join this closed group
MONTHLY MEETINGS First Wednesday each month at 1800 at The Green Turtle (5224 Bridge St., Tampa 33611). December and January included Bill Breckinridge ’96, Janel Brown ’97, Jim Carter ’73, Fr. Tim Corcoran ’67, Tony Dighton ’61, Bill Graham ’72, Austin Gullett ’03, Warren Hahn ‘60, James Hamm ’84, Chris Heath ’72, Eric Kennington ’88, Jane Lochner ’84, and Brian Tsai ’16, Don Aiken ’78, Derrick Clark ’98, Peter Damisch ’75, Perry Dempsey ’72, Miller Detrick ’63, Jake Dove ’06, Marty Drake ’78, Jeff Johnson ‘79, Julius Melero ‘15, Matt Packard ’06, and Steve Swift ’87. We were also glad to be joined by Kim and Mike McGiven, parents of John McGiven ’29.
Samantha Hahn (pictured front left), granddaughter of Warren Hahn ’60, with the Women’s Basketball team.
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/USNAAlumni-TampaSt-Petersburg/120095454740213?sk=wall Chapter LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/3912975/
ARMY-NAVY FOOTBALL WATCH PARTY On December 13, we joined the Tampa Bay West Point Society to watch the Army-Navy Football Game at Miller’s Ale House. More than 100 alumni and friends gathered in spirited camaraderie celebrating rivalry, tradition, and the enduring bonds of service.
Tampa Bay Chapter: L to R: Chris Quilty ’89, Steve Swift ’87, Reagan Quilty ‘24, Jon Rank ’03, Robert Villanueva ’03, Mike Houda ’03, ADM “Mitch” Bradley ’91, Jimmy Battista ’03, Garrett Kulczycki ’02, Nick Pinkston ’04 and Austin Gullett ’03. 102 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
CHAPTER NEWS
Southern Idaho Chapter: USNA alumni take a half-time break during the A-N game.
Ed Brzezinski ’85 with his prize.
Southern Idaho Chapter: Members and spouses having a good time at the ball
Idaho
BGO Area Coordinator: James Mahan e: j.pmahan@gmail.com
Southern Idaho Chapter President: Rick Schellhaas ’68 e: rbschellhaas@gmail.com
Vice President: Pete Butler ’86 e: pete@valtrend.com Sec’y: Rufus Taylor ’66 e: tincansailor980@gmail.com Treas: Tef Nunnamaker ’96 e: tjnunamaker@gmail.com Idaho Parents’ Club President: Trasi Mullin (Cormac ’26) e: idusnaparents@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9572/feed
Greetings all. Spring is upon us. Trust all are off to a good start to 2026. Hope you are “springing” out of the Dark Ages doldrums. Navy football closed out the 2025 season in fine fashion with victory over Cincinnati in a rain-soaked Liberty Bowl in Memphis, TN. Navy’s record of 11-2 record was achieved for just the third time in program history. The final NCAA 1-136 football re-ranking and the last US LBM Coaches Poll have been completed. Navy was ranked Number 23 in both Polls. The icing on the cake is that Navy was awarded the 2025 Lambert Trophy, emblematic as the best
team in the East in the FBS division. Go to <navysports.com> for more detailed information. GO NAVY! It was quite a football season topped only by nail-biter win over Army in Baltimore. “Singing Second” is always great. Over 200 attendees gathered for our annual A-N watch party held at the WarHawk Air Museum Complex in Nampa, ID. The venue was hosted in the new Global War on Terrorism (G.W.O.T.) Museum, a fantastic facility. Many thanks to Carson Spears, Executive Director of the museum complex, for providing the facility. Once again food and beverages were graciously served up by Holy Smokes BBQ & Catering and Bear Island Brewery. Thanks to all! Along with spouses, family, parents, friends, and alumni, SIC attendees included: Bill Previty ’65, Steve Berg ’66, Rufus Taylor ’66, Del Giffin ’67, Dennis Hanrahan ’68, Jim Perkins ’68, Rick Schellhaas ’68, Wes Stanfield ’69, Tom Simmonds ’73, Johnny Green, ’76, Mike McBay ’77, Ken vanderHorst ’79, Jeff Bush ’80, Ed Brzezinski ’85, Jeff Walker ’85, Pete Butler ’86, Mike Bisbee, ’96, Ted Nunamaker ‘96, Chris Horak ’94, Paul Campbell ’98, Johannah Schumacher ’01 and Mike Campbell ’04. During one of the commercial breaks in the A-N game, a raffle prize was won by Ed Brzezinski ’85. He “captured” the Army flag… literally. Way to go Ed!
Chapter members and their ladies closed out the year at the annual All Service Academies Dinner and Ball. There was an excellent pre-dinner program including a silent auction, cake raffle, and recognition of those who have gone before us along with the appropriate solemnity. Many thanks to the USNA Parents’ Club in helping to organize the event. Current and prospective midshipmen were also in attendance. Chapter members present with their Spouses/SO’s included; Wanda & Bill Previty ’65, Del Giffin ’67, Dannye & Dennis Hanrahan ’68, Naty & Tom Neville ’68, Rick Schellhaas ’68, Dan Bailey ’85, Roy Ledesma ’87, and Tirzah & Cody Rome ’12. The Southern Idaho Chapter (SIC) meets monthly. Alumni and spouses/SO’s living in or visiting the Boise area are invited to join us. If you would like information about SIC activities, contact Rufus Taylor ‘66 at tincansailor 980@ gmail.com
Illinois
Chicago Chapter
Pres: Mike Cortesio ’85 e: mjcortesio@comcast.net Sec’y: John Killacky ’93 e: j4killacky@comcast.net Treas: Michelle Lee ’16 e: michelle.lee@bgo.usna.com Past Pres: Fred Weber ’75 e: Fred.weber@2comm.com BGO Area Coordinator (Northern IL) LCDR Drew Thomas ’04, USNR e: drew.thomas@bgo.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9498/feed
Several members of the Chicago chapter joined our Army brethren for an Army-Navy football watch party at Green Street Local in downtown Chicago on 13 December. Everyone MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 103
CHAPTER NEWS kick off at 5 pm with first pitch at 6 pm. Sign-up details are available at Chicago’s MyUSNA. com events.
Maryland
Greater Southern Maryland Chapter Pres: Dan Peters ‘04 p. 361-244-6064 e. danpeters04@gmail.com Sec’y: Pierre Thuot e. pthuot@gmail.com Corr Sec’y: Tom Phelan ’79 p: 301-481-0604; e: tphelan57@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9516/feed Website: http://www.navyalumni.org BGO Area Coordinator: Kevin Schaaff e: Kevin.Schaaff@bgo.usna.com
Chicago Chapter: Several members of both Army and Navy rooting for their teams at Green Street Local in Chicago
in attendance, including families, had a great time. The Navy fans were particularly happy with the result. The chapter’s recently elected President, Mike Cortesio ’85, chaired a Board zoom meeting in mid-January. The board agreed to meet monthly in the future. All chapter members are invited to meetings twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. It is the board’s goal to have at least one of those meetings be in person. This meeting focused on planning activities for the upcoming year. Other discussions included possibly initiating a small due for members (not decided yet) and communication strategies. The board explored ideas for networking events in different suburban areas and leveraging the new alumni association system to better track members and mange events. Talk of a potential golf tournament and meet-and-greet events to attract new members were also discussed, as well as future Army-Navy watch parties in other sports to increase engagement. The chapter welcomes all alumni who may have just moved to the Chicagoland area as well as those who have lived here for some time. There are approximately 1,000 alums living in the Chicagoland area. If you are interested in becoming more active in the chapter or have any ideas for future events, you are encouraged to contact the chapter President, Mike Cortesio, through his email above. Younger alumni are especially encouraged to become more active in planning and attending future events. The opportunity to socialize, mentor, educate, and network are boundless.
Save the date: Saturday, 15 August 2026. The chapter will be gathering for a picnic and minor league baseball game at the Chicago Dogs stadium in Rosemont. Festivities will
The Greater Southern Maryland Chapter kicked off the 2025 Army/Navy festivities with our annual Eggs/Legs breakfast on Friday, 12 Dec at the Taphouse 1637, which was a new venue for us. Great attendance this year and all had a good time. Pictured is our Chapter President (Dan Peters ’04) addressing the crowd. In other news: CDR Travis Hartman ’05 turned over command of the U. S. Naval Test Pilot School on 8 Jan 2026. GSMC meets monthly on the second Wed of each month at the Brudergarten in Leonardtown. Come on out and join us!
Greater Southern Maryland Chapter: Chapter President, Dan Peters ‘04 remarks to attendees
Greater Southern Maryland Chapter: Eggs and Legs at Taphouse 1637 104 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
CHAPTER NEWS on upcoming events. Please see the updated information about dues and chapter membership at the Boston Chapter’s site on the myUSNA.com if you haven’t already, and feel free to reach out to any of the officers if you have questions. The next chapter meeting will be held virtually with date TBD in the Summer. Thanks again for the participation and involvement and reach out for event ideas or if you’d like to be more involved. Beat Army!
Minnesota
Upper Midwest Chapter Boston Chapter
Pres: Brian E. Ries ’93 c: 858-335-7921; e: ries.briane@gmail.com Shipmate Contact: Position Open Website: myUSNA.com Chapter Group: https://myusna. com/topics/9586/home Facebook: www.fb.com/USNAAAUpperMidwest BGO Area Coordinator: Brad Gawboy ’81, USN (Ret.) e: bradgawboy@comcast.net
Boston Chapter
Massachusetts
What a season it was for Navy Football! The Upper Midwest Chapter joined the Parents Club (and a few Falcon fans) for a joint NavyAir Force watch party at The Loop West End in Saint Louis Park, MN, then kept the fun going by gathering at Cowboy Jack’s in Bloomington, MN, to watch Navy beat Army. But we weren’t done yet! We got together once more at Cowboy Jacks to cheer on the team as they took on and defeated Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl. We were joined by local veterans at Army Navy and by the Navy League for the
Boston Chapter
Pres: Ashley (Pelzek) Ferguson ‘06 e: ashley.pelzek@gmail.com Sec’y: Dan Gackowski ‘05 e: danielgackowski@outlook.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9488/feed Website: http://boston.usnachapters.com BGO Area Coordinator (Boston and SE Mass): Christie Morin e: christie.a.morin@gmail.com 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
Hopefully by the time everyone in New England is reading this, things are starting to thaw from the almost two feet of snow still on the ground at the time of submission! We had great attendance at the ArmyNavy Joint Watch Party at Cask ‘n Flagon in December -- 151 Navy registrations up from 85 last year. We don’t have the Army numbers, but it’s safe to say we came close to eclipsing them at their own hosted event to watch Navy’s win! We have a couple pictures here; it’s great to see the involvement and participation. In January, we also held our first formal chapter meeting with the new chapter leadership. Some of the big topics included the new chapter fee structure along with discussion
Upper Midwest Chapter: Watching Navy beat Air Force in St. Louis Park, MN.
Upper Midwest Chapter: Current midshipmen Joseph McAnally ’29, Patrick Cavanaugh ’29, Michael Howard ’29, Cormac Murphy ’29, Anna Peterson ’27, Ingrid Holter ’27, Thomas Samit ’27 and Jack Teske ’26 with CDR John Hoeck ’02 at the Minnesota All-Service Academy Ball. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 105
CHAPTER NEWS Liberty Bowl, as well as Parents Club members, making for a great time. Another highlight of the winter was Minnesota’s All-Service Academy Ball on 27 December, hosted by the Parent Clubs of the service academies to celebrate current midshipmen and cadets and their families. CDR John Hoeck ’02 served as President of the Mess.
Nevada
BGO Area Coordinator: Andrew Kano e: andrew.kano99@gmail.com
Las Vegas Chapter Pres: Corwin Karaffa ’77 e: cjkaraffa@gmail.com
Sec’y: Glenn Truitt ’97 e: glenn@idealbusinsspartners.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9573/feed Website: http://southernnevada.usnachapters.com/
2026: Full Steam Ahead for the Las Vegas Chapter! The Las Vegas Chapter kicked off the new year with a high-energy planning meeting, reviewing a truly banner year. We are witnessing continued growth in our local Chapter community and as we enjoy looking in the rearview mirror and celebrating a successful 2025, we are charting a course for an even better 2026! Spring Training and Pickleball! Spring in Vegas means baseball! Mark your calendars for Thursday, 7 May, as we have set the date for our annual spring event with the Las Vegas Aviators. This is always a Chapter favorite, and we look forward to a great night at the ballpark for all ages and service academy affiliations! Head to myUSNA.com for ticket details! We are also thrilled to announce a brand-new family event! On Saturday, 17 May, we will be hosting a “Family Pickleball Day” to commemorate Memorial Day for families. Join us at Chicken N Pickle from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. We are inviting our Army counterparts for a day of friendly rivalry and fun. The cost will be $15, which includes court time and a training seminar for those new to the sport. Save the Date: Plebe Brunch We have locked in the date for our annual Plebe Brunch to welcome the incoming Class of 2030! We will be returning to the beautiful TPC Las Vegas on Saturday, 6 June, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The setting and meal there provide a welcoming atmosphere that allows more alumni to attend and wish our new midshipmen fair winds. Football is Coming It is never too early to talk football! We have already reserved the front of MacKenzie River Pizza, Grill & Pub @ City National Arena in Summerlin, for the 2026 Army-Navy game to ensure we have plenty of room for the faithful.
106 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
New Mexico Chapter: USNA Alums Convene for Army/Navy Football Classic”
We are also planning a joint watch party with the Notre Dame club at Las Vegas Brewing Co. for the Irish game on Halloween. Stay tuned to our Facebook page and myUSNA.com for the latest updates. GO NAVY! VIVA LAS VEGAS!
New Mexico New Mexico Chapter
Adam Hesch ’08, Robert and Karen Martinez (Parents ’26), Liz Titus (Parent ’29) with her parents, Steve and Zee Homoki. Of note is that although Chapter member Courtney Lapahie ’17 is stationed in San Diego and unable to join us for the game, her mother Elsie Begay and brother Jacy Carl are proud to drive the 300 mile round trip from their home in Gallup, NM to Albuquerque to represent Courtney at our annual watch party for the past several years.
Pres: John Scott Kraus ’73 2304 Madre Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112 h: 505-296-7409; c: 505-366-7457 e: skraus@aquilagroup.com; or jkraus2304@aol.com Sec’y: Joseph McGuire ’68 p: 505-857-9679; e sunnymack@msn.com Vice Pres: Dr. Doug Meints ’77 p: 505-888-6800; e: dmeintschiro@gmail.com NM Parents’ Club Pres: Sheila Chapman p: 505-419-2633; e: usna.nm.parents@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9539/feed Website: http://newmexico.usnachapters.com BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT David Swingle e: dswingle@newmexico.com
It was a busy football month for the New Mexico Chapter as we were all called to assemble for two watch parties at Craft Republic in Albuquerque and celebrate two big Navy wins. Our first event on 13 December, the Army/ Navy game came out as a huge “W” if only by one point, but always a thrill. The game also coincided with having the required Chapter’s Annual Meeting, which was held during halftime. This meeting satisfies the State of New Mexico’s requirements to keep our Chapter’s Domestic Nonprofit Corporation status in good standing for the year. This event usually has the largest member assembly of the year, and this one did not disappoint. Attending the watch party were: Leo Stockham ’56, Brink Trammel ’57, Fred Corbalis ’62, Bonnie and Mike Blackledge ’63, Olen Thompson ’63, Kip Paskewich ’65, Joe McGuire ’68, Judy and Paul Wilson ’68 with guest Cynde Tagg, Ashby Albright (‘71 Assoc.), Tolly Toliver ’71, Ed Johnson ’73, Scott Kraus ’73, Mikey Weinstein (USAFA ’77), Pamela and Tom Kennedy ’82, Deborah and Mark Schaefer ’83 with youngster guests Tim, Aillia, and Stephen, Mark Hawkins ’85, Dave Robinson ’92, Christine Hoaglund ’97,
Grads and Mids at the Liberty Bowl Watch Party
Our second Chapter watch party was held at the same location on 2 January with a good turnout of 4 Alumni, 5 active duty Midshipmen, and 9 of their family members. The occasion was to cheer on Navy playing in the Liberty Bowl in Memphis, TN and celebrating with a ten-point win over Cincinnati. The alumni present were: Brink Trammell ’57, Dotty and Hoppy Hopkins ’59, Joe McGuire ’68 and Mark Schaefer ’83. The active-duty Midshipmen present were: Thomas Fotter ’26, Nina Amador ’27, Diego Aragon ’27, Diego Garcia ’27 and Elizabeth Titus ’29. The family members supporting their mids were: Leonardo, Michaela, and Monica Aragon; Matt and Roberta Fotter; Dena and Ralph Garcia; and Liz Titus with daughter Saturn. NM Chapter members are invited to mark your calendars for our annual Family Picnic to be held Sunday, 7 June at 1300 at the Elena Gallegos Open Space, 7100 Tramway Blvd NE in Albuquerque. We have the Kiwanis Shelter area reserved for our picnic, an ideal space with nearby parking, restrooms, shade, tables with seating, and an unmatched view of the Western horizon. Detailed info will be sent out in advance.
CHAPTER NEWS
New York Central New York Chapter Pres: Steve Erb ’68 e: steveerb@windstream.net
Sec’y/Treas: Bob Fegan Jr. ’64 e: bobfegan64@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9492/feed Website: CentralNY.usnachapters.com BGO Area Coordinator: Tom Ravener e: tom.ravener@gmail.com
A very few alumni, and Navy family and friends were able to get-together at the Brae Loch Inn in Cazenovia for the Army-Navy game. Alumni attending were Steve Benson ’80, his wife Michelle and other family members, Stu Card ’85 and his wife Brenda, Chuck Dunleavy ’70 and his wife PJ, and Bob Fegan ’64 and his wife Marilyn. Also attending was numerous other Navy and Army family and friends. The result of the game was enjoyed by the Navy fans though at times it was a heart-stopper. Alumni, family and friends are encouraged to attend the weekly Wednesday lunch at 1200 at Clear Path for Veterans in Chittenango. You can call (315-687-3300) to let them know if you will be attending a lunch but calling is not necessary…just show up. Alumni, family, friends, USNA parents, and others with an interest in the Naval Academy are welcome to join the Chapter at all Chapter functions. Call (315-663-7490) or e-mail Bob Fegan to let us know if you plan to attend a function. Future Chapter activities will be addressed by email as they are planned.
Cape Rear Chapter
North Carolina
BGO Area Coordinator: Col Kevin Hart ’75, USMC (Ret.) p: 847-910-4502; e: kevinphart1@gmail.com
Cape Fear Chapter
Pres: Ray Decker ’72 p: 703-939-0202; e: dax24@icloud.com Vice Pres: Paul Normand ’74 e: paulnormand@mac.com Sec’y: Steve Yandle ’75 e: sryusna75@gmail.com Treas: Rick Haley ’72 e: capefeartreasurer@outlook.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9490/feed Website: myUSNA.com/topics/9490
The Cape Fear Chapter stepped out smartly in the new year with an insightful presentation by RADM Ron Henderson, USN (Ret.), Harvard ’76, an accomplished F-18 pilot, and local naval historian of the Pacific Theater. Immediately after 9/11, Ron assumed command of the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) and rapidly prepared her for deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He talked about the numerous shipboard issues with an aging carrier as well as the operational challenges striking targets over 400 miles away in
Afghanistan. This presentation should be received by all prospective flattop commanding officers! 2026 marks another year of the Chapter’s support for the Academy’s Summer STEM Program. With the creation of its 501C3 Foundation, the Chapter is moving full steam ahead on this initiative! By offering tuition
paid scholarships to all local STEM-oriented students accepted for this program, we are not only recognizing these talented students and their achievement but promoting the Academy’s exceptional leadership and educational opportunities. “From little acorns mighty oaks do grow.” American Proverb. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 107
CHAPTER NEWS We invite all Academy alumni living in SE North Carolina to join our Chapter and enjoy the fellowship and camaraderie through our activities. Our speaker events are open to all local Military Service Academy alumni, parents and friends. Go Navy!
Triangle Chapter: Liberty Bowl Watch Party At Bowstring Pizza and Pub
Event details and calendar are posted on our webpage: MyUSNA.com/topics/9490.
North Carolina Triangle Chapter
Pres: CAPT Shaun McAndrew ’93, USN (Ret.) e: shaun.mcandrew.2020@gmail.com Sec’y: CAPT Bill Coleman ’95, USN (Ret.) e: billcoleman95@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9540/feed Website: www.usnatriangle.com
Happy New Year from the North Carolina Triangle Chapter! The Dark Ages should almost be over by the time you read this, and I’m writing this after I just watched both the Women and Men’s Basketball Team Beat Army! What a great time to be a Navy fan! Fifty-eight grads, family and friends gathered in the dry, warm and welcoming atmosphere on the Bowstring Pizza and Pub patio to enjoy Navy’s impressive win over the Cincinnati Bearcats in the unfortunate foul weather of the Memphis-based Liberty Bowl. The plan of the day included video greetings from the Commanding Officer of the USS North Carolina (SSN-777) and the President of the USS Charlotte’s Family Readiness Group; a moment of silence for John Jones ‘93, Past President; a raffle of USS Asheville, USS Charlotte and USS North Carolina gear; introductions of the class-years and service selections present (1980s and Marines in plurality). Year groups ranged from 1970 to
Triangle Chapter: Army Navy Watch Party at Compass Rose Brewery
2022 with a likely prospect for the Class of 2042 (6 year-old Ryan). At halftime, Gray Tompson, President SSN-777 Club, led our crew in the filming of 2026 Greetings for the crews and families of our states three name-sake submarines Grads in attendance included Stan Bashaw ’81, Dave ’80 and Jen Clement ’81, Tom Clemons ’82, Matthew Cox ’08, Alex Dworjan ’12, Jeff Edgar ’81, Paul Espinosa ’87, John Gardiner ’78, Steve Gillespie ’87, John Glaeser ’84, Rod Hackman ’70, Kim Hanson ’09, David Heider ’07, Tal and Shari Holloway (son ’22), Eric Johnson ’15, Dave Joseforsky ’97, CJ Joseph ’15, Ken Juul ’74, Gary King ’70, Joe Matza ’85, Emory Miller ’07, Keith Nadolski ’71, Christopher Perrien ’74, Ryan Rice ’10, Dave Ruff ’82, Eric Seibert ’93, Mark Tabert ’82, Gray Tomson ’07, Andre Truss ’16, Sandi White ’81, Kirk Williams ’88, Jamaal Williams ’16 and Luke Wolf ’08. Upcoming events: Sunday, 3 May. Annual family picnic at the Durham Bulls Game. Visit myUSNA to register and see other events.
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108 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Ohio Columbus
Pres: Justin Shineman ’91 e: justin.shineman@gmail.com Vice Pres: Matt Eichmann ’00 e: matt.eichmann@gmail.com Sec’y: Elizabeth Clifton ’82 e: cliftonelizabeth@icloud.com Treas: Jim Waddell ’71 e: jbwaddell@columbus.rr.com Parents’ Club Pres: Kevin and Alicia Carter e: napccousna@gmail.com Chapter email: USNAAACbus@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9503/feed Website: https://columbus_usnachapter.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ 100549757152451/ Twitter: @USNAAACbus LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/12356597/ Instagram: USNAAACbus BGO Area Coordinator: Carla Dowling-Fitzpatrick e: dowlingfitzpatrick@sbcgolbal.net
Army-Navy Watch Party In the midst of heavy falling snow, the Chapter on 13 December 2025 joined with members of the local West Point Alumni Association at Fadó Pub & Kitchen in Dublin, OH, to watch our hometown midshipman, Blake Horvath, lead Navy to a thrilling victory over Army. It’s always great to sing last. On 5 February, the Columbus Chapter held the annual Dark Ages Pub Night at The Wine Bistro in Upper Arlington, OH. This event was held as a brief, but needed respite
CHAPTER NEWS
Columbus Chapter: Dark Ages
Columbus Chapter: Army-Navy Watch Party Fadó Pub & Kitchen, Dublin, OH
from what has been a particularly bleak and harsh winter featuring a crippling January snowstorm and deeply sub-zero temperatures. In attendance was Laura Horvath, mother of Blake Horvath, who brought along Blake’s game helmet. This event traditionally is also a rare occasion to sport a B-robe in public. Members of the Columbus Chapter met during the monthly All Service Academy Networking Breakfasts held on 4 December, 8 January, and 5 February. The gatherings enabled local graduates of all service academies to network, share sea/war stories, engage in repartee, and discuss the relative superiority of the various service branches. Mark your calendars: All Service Academy Networking Breakfasts, 5 March and 2 April,7 May, and 4 Jun, 7 AM, First Watch, Worthington, OH. Central Ohio Alumni and Friends of the Chapter are invited to renew their membership or join. Annual membership dues are $25. Alumni aged 80 and over are exempt. An individual must be a dues-paying member to be included as a voting member of the Chapter. In addition to supporting chapter events, dues and donations allow the Chapter to send students with financial need to attend
USNA Summer Seminar and Summer STEM sessions. Dues can be submitted via Zelle to usnaaacbus@gmail.com or by going to the Columbus Chapter page at myUSNA.com and clicking the ‘Memberships’ tab.
Oregon
Oregon and Southwest Washington Chapter
Pres: CDR John Adams ’69, USNR (Ret.) e: john.adams@1969.usna.com Vice Pres: CDR Mike Carmichael ’69, USNR (Ret.) e: mikec@1969.usna.com Treas: CDR Ted Scypinski ’90, USNR (Ret.) e: ted.scypinski@flir.com BGO Area Coordinator: Gillian Richards e: jill@teamrichards.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9545/feed Website: oregon.usnachapters.net
December brought lots of USNA activity. First the great victory over Army in football. The chapter watched the game at Big Al ’s in Beaverton with the West Point chapter. Attending were Mike Carmichael ’69 his wife Suzie and daughter Kym, Ed Whitemar ’60 and his guests John and Jake, Jerry North ‘61 his wife Ann and son Art, Jack Kohl ’65 and his
wife Joan, Dave Fritzman ’94, Todd Washburn ’93, Tex Harkins ’67 and his wife Cecily, Kiris Ulman ’07, Camern Groc ’19, Glen Weeks ’65, Ed Hepp ’67 and his wife Fran, Don Haslett ’66 and his guests Peter and Jeff Hutchinson, Scott Fitzpatrick ’80, Doug Bomarito ’68 and his guests Nils and Dave Rusnak, Lee Hall ’80, Chris Carlson ’78, Tim Myers ’64, Frank Swinteck ’66, Bill Pierznik ’29 Parent, Kevin Johnson ’94 and his guest Beth Klingler, Pete Kurzenhauser ’80 and Mike Jones ’69. The year ended with the biannual All Academy Ball, hosted this year by the Air Force Parent ’s Club. Alumni attending included Mike Carmichael ’69 and his wife Suzie and Mike Smith ’79 and his wife Diane. Midshipmen and their parents attending included Zachariah Manning, Christine Manning and their son Luke Manning ’29, Aaron Wall; Kristie Wall, and their son Elijah Wall ’29, Mary Costantino her son Evander Pierznik ’29 and his brother Richelor Pierznik Jennifer Reinhart and her daughter Lucille Reinhart ’29. January began with the Navy Liberty Bowl victory over Cincinnati. As with the Army/ Navy game we watched it at Big Al ’s in Beaverton. Attending were Doug Ballard 74, Mike Carmichael ’69, David Rodrigius ’78, Tim Myers ’64, Chris Carlson ’78, Duncan Hart ’87 and his wife Christine ’87, Patrick Sippel ’09 his wife Charlene Sipple ’09 and their 5 children, Steve Nagy ’87, Doug Bomarito ’68, John Plett ’69 and his wife Kathryn, Brian Hathaway ’89, and his father Paul Hathaway ’57. The month ended with our monthly luncheon. Present were Doug Ballard ’74, Mike Carmichael ’69, Lee Hall ’80, Mike Wertz ’77 ( member of San Diego chapter, visiting in area), Doug Bomarito ’68, Bill Eger ’92, Mark Cooley ’71, Tim Myers ’64, Jack Kohl ’65, Butch Bewick ’62 and Scott Fitapatrick ’80.
Pennsylvania Susquehanna Valley Chapter Pres: CAPT Toni Kasprzak Chase ’84, USN (Ret.) e: tonitalks14@gmail.com Vice Pres: CAPT Tony Yanero ’96, USN (Ret.) e: tyanero@hotmail.com Treas: Robert “Guns” Gundlach ’84 e: rjgundlach@msn.com Sec’y: Ryan Goldsmith ’12 e: ryan.goldsmith.12@gmail.com
The Susquehanna Valley gathered for a terrific evening at the Beerded Goat in Harrisburg, PA to kick off 2026. The chapter enjoyed a wonderful turnout – swapping sea stories, sharing laughs, and catching up with friends old and new. Thank you Tony Yanero ’96 for coordinating such a fun and engaging event!
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 109
CHAPTER NEWS
Rhode Island
BGO Area Coordinator: CAPT Stuart Craig ’86, USN (Ret.) e: stuart.craig@bgo.usna.com
Rhode Island Chapter
Pres: Mike O’Sullivan ’73 p: 401-742-7091; e: michael.osullivan1973@gmail.com Sec’y: Col Paul Muller ’88, USMC (Ret.) p: 401-248-3405; e: usmctanker@cox.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9558/feed
Susquehanna Valley Chapter
Special shoutout to Dave ’96 and Holly Carnal as they celebrate some exciting milestones: their son Todd has received his appointment to the Class of 2030, and their firstie, Sean (Class of 2026), is gearing up for graduation and the launch of an aviation career. Bravo to the entire Carnal family! Many thanks as well to Tim Farrell ’76, an active and dedicated member of Another Link in the Chain, Class of ’76. It’s energizing to see ’26 preparing to join the Fleet and ’30 getting ready to come on deck. The chain remains strong.
Singleton’s Seafood Shack in Mayport followed by a “dessert fest” and more fellowship in the Wolfe’s “party rig” at the Pelican Roost RV Park aboard the Mayport Naval Station. Multiple old tales were retold throughout the event with particular focus on swimming and PT classes conducted by the late Professor Heinz Lenz, including several admirable impersonations of Professor Lenz.
Happy New Year! The Alumni Chapter from the nation’s smallest state congratulates the Mids on retaining the Commander in Chief’s trophy! On 13 December USNA graduates ranging from the class of 1970 to 2024 met at the Topside Bar / Officers’ Club at NETC Newport, RI and cheered on Navy Football to a clutch victory over Army. Chapter President Wes Bannister led us in singing Blue and Gold, cherishing the opportunity to sing second. RI Chapter Members should watch for notifications of upcoming winter events including Navy Hockey @ URI on 21 February and the Annual Chapter Banquet on 12 March. Chapter President Wes Bannister will continue to provide monthly announcements of sports/ other activities where USNA is in the area.
Recreational Vehicle American Chapter Pres: Tom Wolfe ’70 e: tsrjw71@gmail.com
Vice Pres: Don Baldwin ’74 e: donb682@gmail.com Treas: Clay Henry e: lerzc@aol.com Chapter Sec’y: George Turner ’88 gwturner4@gmail.com Shipmate Correspondent: Alexandra Marberry ’15 e: alex.marberry@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9556/feed Website: www.rv.usnachapters.net Facebook: USNA RV CHAPTER
Rhode Island Chapter: Attendees pictured include Paul Muller ’88, Tom Fulton ’92, Conrad Donahue ’73, Matt Breede ’70, Robert Gass ’84, Carlos Sotomayor ’78, Land Reese ’82, Tom Brillat ’73, Scott Wright ’92, Rob Schult ’92, Bob Flynn ’92, Bryan William ’92, Rob Flannery ’98, Ian Nesbitt ’97, Wes Bannister ’90, and Mike O’Sullivan ’73.
Lynne and Jim Connors ’74, Maryjane and Bob Metcalf ’61, Rose and Tom Wolfe ’70, Gail and David Penman ’75 and Vanessa and Tim Hallihan ’72 met for an ad-hoc one day mini-comearound in Jacksonville, FL in January. The Metcalfs reside in Jacksonville while everyone else was simultaneously passing though. The POD consisted of lunch at
2026 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Follow Navy Football online at: navysports.com 1-800-US4-NAVY 110 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Recreational Vehicle Chapter
CHAPTER NEWS To learn more, including a calendar of events, follow us on socials listed above or visit our chapter page at https://myusna.com/topics/ 9558/feed, Be sure to join as a member so we can support future activities. Beat Army!
South Carolina BGO Area Coordinator: Ryan Blacklock e: ryan.blacklock@2004.usna.com
USNAAA Roadshow - 1/23/26 20 alumni and parents gathered together at Goat’s Restaurant and Craft Cocktail Bar in Columbia, South Carolina for a socializing, snacking and drinking event sponsored by the Naval Academy alumni association. Our hosts included Lori Coogan and Nancy Murray from the alumni association staff, and Jimmy Debutts editor of Shipmate magazine.
know each other, and sharing sea stories. Thanks to the Alumni Association for facilitating this terrific opportunity to meet and great members of our Naval Academy community in the Midlands of South Carolina!
Tennessee Knoxville-Oak Ridge Chapter Pres: Rich Cataldi ’69 e: cdrcataldi@tds.net
Vice Pres: Mike McLaughlin ’08 e: michael.mclaughlin@2008.usna.com
Charleston Chapter
Pres: CDR Rick Stein ’82, USNR (Ret.) 784 Preservation Pl., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 p: 843-856-6591; w: 843-557-7021 e: USNA_AA_Charleston@Comcast.net
Sec’y-Treas: Jim Ward ’85 e: jim.ward@1985.usna.com Website: https://myusna.com/topics/9527/home
myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9495/feed
BGO Area Coordinator: CDR Richard Cataldi ’69, USN (Ret.)
December 2025 Meeting On Monday December 15, 2025, The Charleston Chapter held its Monthly Luncheon. Our Speaker was Fuzzy Knight ’53, who spoke on his Autobiography “Graveyard Spooks and Other People”. In Attendance were: Fuzzy Knight ’53, Noel Blandford (Jim ’55), John Common ’64, Ray Setser ’65, Bernie Magdelain ’67, Roger Paradis ‘67, Jim Welsch ’67, Michael Bosse ’74, Bill Conrad ’75, Denny Simon ’77, Glenn Morris ’80, Phil Botero ’82, Rick Stein ’82, Greg Shore ’84, Wes Smith ’90, David Kern ’92 and Audrey Talbot ’14. The Chapter mourns the passing of RADM James H. Flatley III ’56 USN (Ret.)
The Knoxville-Oak Ridge Chapter gathered with our West Point counterparts for our annual Army-Navy Football Watch Party, a tradition that continues to strengthen the bonds among service academy alumni in East Tennessee. Navy hosted this year’s event at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux in Knoxville, where 50 Navy supporters—21 alumni and 29 guests—turned out in force. The Navy Football program delivered a hardfought 17–16 victory, ensuring that Navy fans proudly sang second. The venue is more accustomed to hearing Tennessee Volunteers fans belt out Rocky Top, so we were pleased to introduce them to Navy Blue and Gold. Attendees included: Mary Frances and Tom Baer ’64; Bruce Bevard ’76; Susie Cataldi (Rich ’69); Denise and AB Coleman ’72 and guests; Patsy and Lanny Cox ’63; Pam and
January 2025 Meeting On Monday January 19, 2025, The Charleston Chapter held its Monthly Luncheon. Our Speaker was Rik Dilgren ’72, on the topic of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) 1993. In Attendance were: Fuzzy Knight ’53, Don Kellerman ’55, Ray Setser ’65, Frank Bryant ’66, Alam Burkhart ’67, Bernie Magdelain ’67, Roger Paradis ’67, Chuck Mayer ’68, Alan Ptak ’71, Rik Dilgren ’72, Al Olsen ’72, Steve Weise ’72, George Watt ’73, Mike Bosse ’74, Jim Lyons ’74, Ron Malec ’74, David Oyster ’74. Dave Fischer ’76, Dave Shimp ’76, Denny Simon ’77, John Blackburn ’82, Rick Stein ’82, Jeff Gordon ’83, Tom Hodgson ’83, Perry Ramicone ’83, Greg Shore ’84, Dan Teclaw ’84, David Kern ’92, and Audrey Talbot ’14. The Charleson Chapter meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 12 Noon in Mount Pleasant. No reservation required. Rick Stein
Lori Coogan and Nancy Murray
Jimmy DeButts
All in attendance had a marvelous time enjoying the heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by our hosts, craft cocktails from the cash bar, getting to
SC Midlands Chapter: Happy Hour
South Carolina Midlands Chapter Pres: James Fuller ‘98 e: jamestfuller@gmail.com
Vice Pres: Ed Tilden ‘71 e: aetilden@1971@usna.com Sec’y: Randy Brooks ‘69 e: RBrooks47@sc.rr.com Treas: Randy Herald ‘70 e: Randy.herald@usa.net myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9569/feed Website: www.usnasc.org
SC Midlands Chapter: Happy Hour MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 111
CHAPTER NEWS
Knoxville-Oak Ridge Chapter: Alumni and guests at the Army-Navy Watch Party
Rudy Escher ’78; Vanessa and Tim Hallihan ’72; Mary and Ross Harding ’73; Dori and Buddy Holt ’73; Marsha and Mark Kohring ’73 with daughter Kasey; Mike McLaughlin ’08; Jeanette and Ryan Miller ’07, Bobbie and Larry Peck ’85; Lorie and Ed Price ’73; Linda and Harry Rucker ’73; Laura and Duane Schroeder ’85; George Stubbs ’58 with daughter Debra and Don Sandercock; Donita and Jim Ward ’85 with daughters Katie and Jennifer and guest Zach Chafin; Eva and Andy Wehrle ’72; Priscilla and Steve Zotti ’83 and guests. Looking ahead, our next major event will be the annual luncheon with Navy Lightweight Rowing’s first class midshipmen and coaches during their Spring Break training in Oak Ridge, scheduled for 11 March 2026. This longstanding tradition is a highlight for our chapter and a meaningful opportunity to support the Brigade’s athletic programs. The Chapter holds a monthly lunch meeting, hosts four major events each year, sponsors three awards for midshipmen, and supports several veterans organizations throughout East Tennessee. These activities reflect our commitment to strengthening ties among alumni, supporting today’s midshipmen, and remaining engaged in the broader military community. Alumni visiting or relocating to East Tennessee are warmly invited to join our monthly luncheons at Famous Dave’s BBQ in Knoxville, typically held on the first Wednesday of each month at 1200. Guests are always welcome, and we look forward to connecting with fellow graduates and friends of the Naval Academy.
Alumni and Parents gather at Rock’n Brews for some Beat Army!
North Texas Chapter
Directors at Large: Jamey Cummings ’93 and Joe Carpenter ’92 Pres: Carrie Murdock ’99 e: pres@usnaaa-ntx.com Vice Pres of Membership: Ty Rose ’06 Treas: Greg Colandrea ’90 Sec’y: Frankie Delgado ’95 e: secy@usnaaa-ntx.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9541/feed Website: www.usnaaa-ntx.com BGO Area Coordinator: Tom Eschenbrenner p: 972 740 4060; e: eschenbrenner@gmail.com
Greetings from chilly North Texas! As always, December is packed with USNA activities, and 2025 wrapped up with some fantastic events. On 13 December, alumni and parents gathered to watch Navy beat Army! The turnout created a great atmosphere at Rock’n Brews in Grapevine. Later that same week, the North Texas USNA family enjoyed an inspiring Blue Chip dinner. This annual tradition, held for over 30 years, allows North Texas candidates and their families to connect with the local USNA community, including graduates, Midshipmen, and their families. This year, we were honored to hear a keynote address from the Commandant of Midshipmen, CAPT Austin Jackson ’99. The Commandant, along with the Dean of Admissions, Bruce Latta ’78, presented several letters of appointment.
Blue Chip gathering of Navy SEALs (l to r): Jeff Webb ’95, CAPT Austin Jackson ’99, Chris Sambar ’95, Clint Bruce ’97, Jamey Cummings ’93
Alumni Assoc. Pres./CEO - Jeff Webb ’95, Blue Chip Organizer - Rusty Cone ’78, and Alumni Assoc. EVP of Engagement & Communications - TJ Grady ’96
Midshipmen 1/C Jonah Johnston ’26, 2/C Ajay Goluguri ’27, 3/C Hayden Carey ’28, and 4/C Conor Parro ’29 shared wonderful anecdotes about their experiences at the Naval Academy and the Yard. A Blue Chip dinner would not be complete without the inspiration
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 myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9481/feed Website: http://www.alamo.usnachapters.com Facebook: Alamo Chapter NAAA BGO Area Coordinator: Eric Montgomery ’04 p: 410-507-2832; e: eric.montgomery@2004.usna.com
The Alamo Chapter had a nice gathering at the Anchor Bar in San Antonio. 112 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Alamo Chapter: Phillip Crawford ’08, Carmel Chapline ‘81, Greg Roberts ’03, Tom Colborn ’68, Ron Sandoval ’81, Anthony Walters ’11, Richard Beggs ’83, Dave Driscoll ’63, John Bird ’77, Quincy Adamas ’16, Laura Koerner ’97, Chris Claiborne ’94, and Walter Warren ’02
CHAPTER NEWS aviation assets to the region and provide a unique opportunity to connect alumni with the active-duty fleet. With one of the largest and most geographically diverse alumni communities in the country, the Texas Gulf Coast Chapter continues to foster connection and camaraderie. If you find yourself in Houston, please reach out to a classmate. There are a lot of us here, and you will always find a warm welcome along the Gulf Coast. North Texas Chapter: Mids lead Navy Blue and Gold at Blue Chip along with Chapter Pres. Carrie Murdock ’99
of Clint Bruce ’97, who regaled us with his stories and insights. Attendees also witnessed the transition of Chapter leadership, as outgoing Chapter President Jamey Cummings ’93 passed the reins to incoming President Carrie Murdock ’99. Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for the Chapter, as we will host the Glee Club during their visit to DFW to celebrate America’s 250th birthday! Please join us for a special evening with the Glee Club. For details and to sign up for a fantastic dinner, visit the Chapter myUSNA site!
Texas Gulf Coast Chapter Pres: Salam Kako ’15 e: kako.salaam@gmail.com
Vice Pres: Alex Brown ’17 e: sabrown1995@gmail.com Treas: Christina Kako ’12 Corr Sec’y: Tom Phelan ’79 p: 301-481-0604 e: tphelan57@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9579/feed Website: http://txgulfcoast.myusna.com/ Facebook: @USNAAATXGC Email: txgulfcoast.usnachapters@gmail.com BGO Area Coodinator: Don Link e: cdr.dlink@gmail.com
The Texas Gulf Coast Chapter has enjoyed a very active and engaging season, welcoming alumni, families, and friends of the Naval Academy from across the greater Houston area. Over the past several months, the chapter
hosted numerous Navy football watch parties. These events continue to serve as a cornerstone of the chapter, providing a familiar and welcoming place for alumni to reconnect and support the Brigade. The chapter also hosted a range of professional, civic, and service-focused programs. Monthly luncheons and evening events featured discussions on The American Presidency and the future of U.S. intelligence and cybersecurity. Veterans Day programming included a Salute to Veterans event featuring Lieutenant Colonel Katie Cook ’08, USMC. A highlight of the year was the presentation of the Smith-McCool Sword to Midshipman First Class Ian Gerick ’26 of Portland, Texas, recognizing the top-ranked Midshipman from the chapter area entering First Class year. The award honors the legacies of astronauts Michael Smith ’67 and William McCool ’83 and was presented by retired NASA astronaut David Leestma ’71. Midshipman Gerick, an Electrical Engineering major, is slated to commission this May as a Cryptologic Warfare Officer. The chapter also completed its 2026 officer elections, with Salam Kako ’15 elected President and Alex Brown ’17 elected Vice President, marking a smooth leadership transition and continued focus on alumni engagement across the Gulf Coast region. Looking ahead, the chapter is preparing for Houston Fleet Week, 15–22 April 2026, which will bring Sailors, Marines, and naval
MIDN Ian Gerick ’26 is joined by his parents and retired NASA astronaut David Leestma ’71 following the Smith-McCool Sword presentation, celebrating academic excellence, leadership, and service.
United Kingdom BGO Area Coordinator: Wes Turbeville ’01 e: bgoarea501coordinator@gmail.com
United Kingdom Chapter Pres: Tim Fox ’97 e: timfox97@hotmail.com
Vice Pres: Cody Nissen ’11 e: cnissen.mba2018@london.edu Sec’y: Lisa Aszklar (Wife, Henry ’81) e: lisa.aszklar@gmail.com Board of Directors: Tony Cox ’89 e: tony.cox@gboutdoorfires.co.uk Chris Robinson ’98 e: naples98@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9585/feed
Army may have lost to Navy by a single point at the 2025 Army-Navy Game in Baltimore, but at the UK Chapter’s annual Game Watch, we all were winners! Chapter president Tim Fox ’97 said the event at Passyunk Avenue Waterloo was probably the largest ever, with around 150 fans cheering on their favorite service academy team. And it wasn’t just former mids and WOOPS who turned out — even a few ZOOMIES (Class of ’25) showed up, no doubt searching for some real tradition and the best cheesesteak on this side of the Atlantic! John Marinovich ’97 may not have attended in person, but Chris Robinson ’98 made sure he was there in spirit — he brought a koozie celebrating John’s 2017 retirement! That’s John’s face wrapped around a can of Pabst Blue Ribbon in the photo on the next page.
Texas Gulf Coast: Alumni and guests gather for the Smith-McCool Sword presentation, celebrating excellence, service, and the enduring bonds of the Naval Academy community. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 113
CHAPTER NEWS And proving that the London-based ArmyNavy Game Watch is one of the best in the world, just look at the smiles on the faces of the attendees below:
Libery Bowl Watch Party- Paul Hurst ‘62, Ted Digges ‘85, and Lisa Digges
John Marinovich ’97, Chris Robinson ’98, and Tim Fox ‘97
A side benefit of our Game Watch is often the unexpected reunion of former classmates, as Trevor Thompson, Doug Robb, and Windsor Frinell, all ’05 grads, learned. Trevor, recently relocated to London for his job with Scale AI, having earned an MPhil at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar just after graduation, before serving as a SEAL until 2019. It was Windsor who told him about the Game Watch, but the surprise of the evening was running into Doug, who had worked periodically with Windsor over the past year but hadn’t seen Trevor “probably since graduation!”
L to R - Jason Stone ’04, Windsor Frinell ’05, two guests, Heather Frinell, and Rob Swain ’12
Until next time … BEAT ARMY!
Virginia Hampton Roads Chapter Pres: Bill Daniels ’77
myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9519/feed 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
’05 Classmates Windsor Frinell, Doug Robb, and Trevor Thompson
Windsor works as a Foreign Area Officer at the US Embassy, serving as Chief of the Office of Defense Cooperation; Doug also is still on active duty, serving as an O-6 and the UK-based liaison for the Commander, US Naval Forces Europe. Prior to this billet, he was the US Navy’s 2023 Hudson Fellowship Program appointee at the University of Oxford, after serving as CO of USS Spruance (DDG 111). In fact, Doug also ran into a former Spruance shipmate at the Game Watch: LCDR Chris “Shady” Cady ’10 was Air Boss while Doug was CO, and the two former shipmates enjoyed the chance to catch up.
Chris “Shady” Cady ’10 and Doug Robb ’05 114 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
What a tremendous Navy football season it was! And as predicted in this column in the January-February Shipmate, the Hampton Roads watch party crowd at Shorebreak Pizza & Taphouse in Virginia Beach was large, loud, and proud while cheering the Blue & Gold to victories over Army on 13 December and Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl on 2 January. Over 350 attendees packed the house for Army-Navy and our annual Silent Auction raised over $10,000.00, much of which will be donated back to our Alma Mater to support USNA’s Summer Seminar, STEM, and International Studies programs. Then just after ringing in the New Year, about 150 of the Navy faithful turned out at Shorebreak to watch the Mids cap off a season filled with excitement, fun, and victories!
Berry family- Mike, Madelyn ‘29, and Sherie Berry joined the fun in Hampton Roads
On the social gathering front, we have shifted to monthly Happy Hours at a variety of venues in Hampton Roads. And to kick things off, on 29 January over 70 alumni, spouses and friends successfully punched the Dark Ages in the nose at a Happy Hour at the Yard House at Virginia Beach Town Center. At our January Networking Breakfast orchestrated by Steve Nimitz ’76, we welcomed Steve Lambert, Active Transportation Planner for the City of Virginia Beach, and Walter Camp, Virginia Beach Planning Commissioner and former Chair of the Virginia Beach Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC), who enlightened us on the future plans for and ongoing construction of a growing network of connected biking trails that are weaving through our cities. Our February speaker was RADM Marc Lederer ’91, Reserve DCNO N3/N5/N7 and Director, OPNAV Task Force 250. He discussed the International Naval Review 250 (INR 250), a weeklong Navy program to be held in New
Hampton Roads Chapter: Class of 79 at the Liberty Bowl watch party
CHAPTER NEWS York City from 3-8 July 2026. The mission of INR250 is to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and 250 years of the U.S. Navy’s defense of our nation, global security, and economic prosperity through maritime superiority and international collaboration. A myUSNA account is rapidly becoming vital to those who want to establish and maintain connectivity with the USNA community and fellow alumni; and those who have not yet activated their account are missing the proverbial boat! MyUSNA is USNAAA’s premier online communications and engagement platform for the USNA alumni community. A myUSNA account provides access to regional Chapter groups, Class groups and other Special Interest Groups (SIGs); and the myUSNA portal is also a great place to get the latest news about alumni, the Brigade, and Navy sports. For the gouge on future Chapter initiatives and events and USNA news and updates, check out our website under the Hampton Roads Group at myUSNA.com. And don’t forget our LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook pages! Dick Enderly ’71
Washington BGO Area Coordinator: Darin Perrine e: dperrine@mailbox.org
Hanford/Tri-Cities Chapter
Pres: CAPT Edward Schwier ’69, USN (Ret.) 1196 Brentwood Ave., Richland, WA 99352-8540 h: 509-627-7288; w: 509-372-0176 e: Edward_G_Ed_Schwier@rl.gov; eschwier@charter.net; egschwier@aol.com
Puget Sound Chapter
going into 2026! Thanks to everyone that showed up for the Army-Navy game and for all the other games as well, and we’re looking forward to great things in 2026! Go Navy! Beat Army If anyone is interested in joining us for any future activities or has recommendations on what they would like to do with the chapter, please let me know at DavidVanDyne@2003. usna.com.
Puget Sound Chapter Pres: Alan Schrader ’92 e: usnaaa.psc@gmail.com
Sec’y: Mike Mathews ’75 e: mjmathews7501@gmail.com Treas: Rob Jezek ’92 e: robert.jezek@hotmail.com Parents Club President: Aimee Miner ’26 e: presidentusnapcwa@gmail.com
myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9520/feed
Chapter email: usnaaa.psc@gmail.com
Website: http://hanford.usnachapters.com
Website: https://myusna.com/topics/9554/home
What a great football season! Not only did Navy finish off one of the more impressive seasons this year with a 11-2 record and beat Army in the 126th Army-Navy game and extended its record against Army to 64–55–7, but the Tri-Cities/Hanford chapter took some steps in revitalizing itself, gaining momentum and enjoying gathering together. This was by far the biggest turnout that we’ve had a really showed a lot of positive energy and trends
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USNApuget BGO Area Coordinator: Darin Perrine ’90 e: dperrine@mailbox.org myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9554/feed Website: https://myusna.com/topics/9554
The Puget Sound Chapter ended the highly successful 2025 Navy football season with Army-Navy and Liberty Bowl watch parties in Bremerton, Oak Harbor and Bellevue. Who
doesn’t love being 11-2 and keeping the Commander-in-Chief trophy for a second year? Winter social events are in the planning stages and should be advertised on myUSNA. com and in chapter emails. Reach out if you’re not receiving them. Our annual face-to-face board meeting on 10 January was changed to a teleconference when illness limited attendance. Nine Chapter officers and trustees attended and discussed upcoming plans for 2026. Improving Chapter membership is our highest priority so we’d like to reach as many area alumni as possible. It’s become pretty clear that the range of USNA classes represented in the 1600 alumni living here in the Pacific Northwest requires a variety of approaches. So, if you’re comfortable with non-electronic means and want to get involved, please use the points of contact above to call or write us. We’ve tried to simplify the task for those who are more comfortable with electronic options. The QR code above offers specific information about Chapter membership by simply scanning it. We are always ready to receive ideas or recommendations from area alumni that would help stimulate interest. If we haven’t recognized impediments that are keeping us from reaching you, please let us know. The Puget Sound Chapter wants you!
CHAPTER SECRETARY COLUMN DEADLINES Send to: chapternews@usna.com
2026
Tri-Cities and Hanford Chapter: Some Naval Academy alumni and other fellow local Sailors enjoying the Army-Navy game!
ISSUE: July-Aug 2026 Sept-Oct 2026 Nov-Dec 2026
DUE DATE: 3 June 2026 5 August 2026 30 Sept 2026
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 115
CHAPTER NEWS testament to the quality of the young women and men applying to the Naval Academy, AND, a very strong endorsement of the role that a Blue & Gold Officer plays in helping these deserving students get a completed applicant. Now, comes that tough part, waiting for the Admissions Board and Superintendent to make their decisions and offer appointments to these outstanding Wisconsin applicants. Anyone who is interested in meeting Wisconsin’s best students and their families is encouraged to contact Area Coordinator Mark Germano at 847-624-5142 or mark.germano@bgo.usna.com. Wisconsin Chapter: A Decked-Out USS Wisconsin
Wisconsin
victory. Plan on joining us next year, same bat time, same bat channel…
BGO Area Coordinator: Mr. Leonard Green e: leonard.green.a@gmail.com
Wisconsin Chapter
ALL SERVICE ACADEMIES BALL A BASH AT THE MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM ON 27DEC25 The USAFA Parents Club of Wisconsin sponsored this year’s formal ball for all Midshipmen and Cadets, their families and special guests for a formal dining out in the Calatrava Building. Even sponsor family members travelled from Annapolis to celebrate. Save the date for next year’s WISNPA-sponsored event: 26DEC26!
Pres: Jeff Reagan ’88 p: 414-803-5947; e: j.m.reagan84@gmail.com Vice Pres: Craig Walker ’83 p: 262-424-2637; e: craigwalker@wi.rr.com Sec’y: Rob Grasse ’88 p: 262-424-9029; e: rgrasse1@wi.rr.com At Large: Ted Chaney ’58 p: 262-567-5800; e: lcdrted@gmail.com Wisconsin Naval Academy Parents’ Association (WISNAPA) Pres: Amy Langeland
L-R: Ted Cheney ’58 with Candidates Troy Westfall (Hartford Union HS) and Sandra Malinowski (Slinger HS)
Vice-Pres: Open Position L-R: Sponsor Mom Martha Blair, Ava Ulatowski ’26, and Rob Grasse ‘88
Past Pres: Steve & Katie Kotansky e: wisnapacontact@gmail.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9590/feed Website: www.myusna.com Wisconsin Blue and Gold Officer Coordinator BGO Area Coordinator: Mr. Mark Germano p: 847-624-5142; e: Mark.Germano@bgo.usna.com
USS WISCONSIN BB-64 CONTINUES TO BE “FORWARD FOR FREEDOM!” USNA’s Wisconsin Alumni give “Winterfest on the Wisconsin” a shout-out for winning ABC-TV’s The Great Christmas Light Fight, Heavyweight Category! The Big WisKy bested Northern California’s Imaginarium and Houston’s River of Lights. Discover what’s happening next at Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin at nauticus.org. WELCOME ABOARD: TED CHENEY ’58 HELMS ARMY NAVY WATCH PARTY AS AT-LARGE LEADER Ted Cheney ’58 agreed to inspire the Chapter, State, and our Country as the newest At-Large Officer for the Wisconsin Chapter of the USNAAA, and was proudly voted-in at the 13DEC25 Army Navy Watch Party held at Club 400, a historic Pub located at 322 Williams St, Waukesha, WI 53186, and owned by former bubblehead, Cesar Dorantes. Eight Alumni and their spouses, two Midshipman candidates and their parents, a few Blue and Gold Officers, and a couple WISNAPA Parents combined to cheer Navy to 116 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Jeff Reagan ’88, Rob Grasse ’88, Dave Kliemann ’93, Craig Walker ’83, Ted Cheney ’58, Mark Johnson ’82, Jeff Hein ’85, and Sean McGinty ’84 at Army Navy Club 400
THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR – CONGRESSIONAL NOMINATIONS Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05 and LtCol, USA, Ret.) proudly introduced and commended his primary and alternate nominations and their parents at an official presser held at historic St. Johns Military Academy in Delafield, WI the morning of 17JAN26. The Wisconsin Alumni and WISNAPA eagerly await USNA Admissions appointment announcements that will add to our ranks!
Senior-Junior Photo – Too Bad No Cake to Cut…
BLUE AND GOLD COORDINATOR CORNER: USNA family, we have had a very positive up-tick in the number of applications to USNA, and more importantly, significant increase in percent of completed applications. Of 136 applications for the Class of 2031 that have been opened, 43 that are complete. A 32% completion rate to date -- a HUGE improvement over the past years. This is a
Congressman Fitzgerald with two Primary Nominations l-r: Matthew Morin (Catholic Memorial HS), Rece Hopfensperger (Brookfield Central HS) and Alternate Nominee Willem Albrecht (Arrowhead HS), with Board Members Rob Grasse ’88, Mark Johnson ’82, and Christine Westrich ‘94
Forward for Freedom! (ala BB-64 USS Wisconsin) Aloha, Rob Grasse ’88 and Mark Germano, WI Blue and Gold Area Coordinator
SHARED INTEREST GROUPS Run to Honor
Pres: Steve Swift ’87 p: 813-787-6098; e: president@runtohonor.com Vice Pres: Pat McConnell ’02 e: vp@runtohonor.com Treas: Jan Kennedy Sister of John Kennedy ’79 e: treasurer@runtohonor.com Sec’y: Shannon Webb ’04 e: secretary@runtohonor.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9174/feed Website: www.runtohonor.com
ENS John Kennedy ’79 was a highlighted honoree during the 2025 San Diego Walk/Jog to Honor at Ingram Plaza in Liberty Station.
Each Memorial Day, the Run To Honor (RTH) community pauses to remember U.S. Naval Academy graduates who gave their lives in service to our nation. This year, alumni and supporters across the country will once again come together—not only to run or gather, but to reflect on the enduring legacy of our fallen Shipmates and what their sacrifice continues to mean to the Naval Academy family. RTH-supported Memorial Day events take many forms, from organized runs to small, local gatherings centered on remembrance. Whether you are joining an established event or helping bring one to life in your own community, your participation strengthens the connection that binds USNA alumni across generations. A cornerstone of RTH’s Memorial Day observance is the annual “Reading of the Names.” During this moving tradition, the names of all U.S. Naval Academy alumni killed in combat or training are read aloud. Alumni and supporters are invited to watch or listen in as each name is spoken, ensuring every individual is honored and remembered.
Details on Memorial Day events and the Reading of the Names can be found on the RTH website (scan the QR code). Those interested in organizing an event are encouraged to contact the Memorial Day Committee leads for planning support and available resources. Memorial Day is a time for intentional remembrance. By showing up—whether in person, as an organizer, or through shared reflection—you help preserve the memory of our fallen classmates and affirm the values they stood for. We hope you will join Run To Honor in honoring their lives and service this Memorial Day. Check out our website and sign up for our email list at: www.runtohonor.com Review upcoming events at: https:// myusna.com/topics/9174/events Follow and Share with us at: www.facebook. com/runtohonor. Learn the stories behind the names in Memorial Hall at: www.usnamemorial hall.org Find RTH gear at: http://runtohonor gear.com Get Involved 1) Volunteer (contact president@ runtohonor.com) 2) Donate. Donors and Sponsors listed at: https://www.runtohonor.com/sponsors To Honor!
USNA Women Pres: Linda “Postie” Postenrieder ’82 p: 415-235-9413; e: post82@whidbey.com Vice Pres: Maegen Nix ’97 e: maegen.nix@vt-arc.org Treas: Sarah Self-Kyler ’99 e: sarah.selfkyler@gmail.com Sec’y: Cecily Walsh ’01 e: cesstay@yahoo.com Outreach: Holly Johnson ’82 e: Holly.Johnson@1982.usna.com myUSNA: myusna.com/topics/9176/feed
Happy New Year! USNA Women kicked off 2026 with the opening of the Historic Annapolis exhibit celebrating 50 years of alumnae trailblazers. Vice President Maegan Nix ‘97 and Allison Webster-Giddings ‘84 led the effort, gathering and documenting images for the community gallery. The event launch highlighted the many hands that made this partnership possible, and we are deeply grateful for the support of the Historic Annapolis and the Annapolis community.
The exhibit is now open at 99 Main Street and will run through 31 May. We hope you’ll stop by and experience this powerful tribute to our Trailblazers, nestled in a museum deep with Annapolis history.
Postie at the opening of the Annapolis Historic Community Gallery celebrating USNA Women Trailblazers
Throughout 2026, the 50-year milestone will be honored in many ways. USNA Women continues to spotlight classes weekly on our social media channels, Shipmate will feature a 50 Year article in every issue. The arrival of this March/April issue marks just weeks away from the Conference & Gala celebrating 50 Years of Women at USNA.
Our team is hard at work finalizing preparations for 16–19 April. All events will take place at the Fluegel Alumni Center (FAC) in Annapolis. There is still time to sponsor part of the celebration—including Class Sponsorships that provide visibility and preferred seating at the Conference. VIP Gala Sponsorships are available, which support the event and provide VIP experiences for 10 guests. Visit USNAWomen. com and click on the 50 Year tab for details. Thursday 4/16/26 will feature golfing, softball, and sailing opportunities prior to the opening reception at the FAC. The Friday/ Saturday Conference boasts networking and incredible speakers/panels. Friday’s gala is shaping up to be an extraordinary formal evening with representation from every decade. Early registrants can now explore a VIP upgrade option for their tickets. We will host both an online and live auction. Many incredible items include a painting by Kristin Cronic ‘11 and a stunning, one-of-akind commemorative quilt created by alumnae. Over 18 months, Postie coordinated quiltmaking sessions across the country—literally sending the quilt on a journey to bring it to life. The final piece beautifully honors the history of the last 50 Years of Women at USNA. Throughout the weekend, attendees will hear from astronauts, senior officers, and barrier-breakers across the fleet, government, and industry. There is still time to secure your tickets—we hope to see you there. Join us in making history! See you in April. Stronger Together!
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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.”
John Philip Holland ’48 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 5 January 2026
Peter Bigelow Easton ’54 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 26 January 2026
Wesley May ’58 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 2 December 2025
Gary Thomas Smith ’59 CDR, USN (Ret.) 2 December 2025
Philip Dickinson Shutler ’48 LtGen, USMC (Ret.) 12 December 2025
Kleber Sanlin Masterson Jr. ’54 RADM, USN (Ret.) 14 November 2025
Paul Curtis McLellan Jr. ’58 Col, USAF (Ret.) 8 December 2025
Ronald Elliott Hasbrouck Woodaman ’59 23 September 2025
Byron Albert Lee ’50 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 9 December 2025
Howard Buford Watkins Jr. ’54 8 January 2026
Robert Wesley Musgrove ’58 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 11 December 2025
Robert Joseph Amend ’60 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 29 December 2021
Allen Brock Schwitzer ’58 6 February 2026
Richard Eaton Dodson Sr. ’60 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 26 December 2025
William Semmes Whaley ’50 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 10 September 2025 Bernard Stanley Morgan Jr. ’51 Col, USAF (Ret.) 26 December 2025 Lloyd Leroy Ames Jr. ’52 17 March 2023 Robert Edmond Hill ’52 CAPT, SC, USN (Ret.) 20 August 2023 Robert Earl Jacob ’52 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 15 January 2026 Richard Curtis Lyons ’52 Col, USAF (Ret.) 13 November 2024 Clyde Desmond Martin Jr. ’52 LT, USNR (Ret.) 9 March 2022 James Arthur Morrison Jr. ’52 6 3 January 2026 Thomas Coe Shoemaker ’52 17 June 2025
Frank Edward Bendrick ’55 Col, USAF (Ret.) 19 January 2026 Joseph John Kronzer Jr. ’55 CDR, USN (Ret.) 19 December 2025 Thomas Emil Sandmeyer ’55 6 15 December 2025 Elbert Riley Spillman ’55 10 December 2025 Spence McFall Armstrong ’56 Lt Gen, USAF (Ret.) 15 November 2025 James Henry Flatley III ’56 RADM, USN (Ret.) 12 December 2025 Donald Thomas Flood ’56 6 22 December 2025 Michael Robert Gluse ’56 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 6 December 2025 Lowell Perry Stone ’56 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 28 December 2025
Julius Louis Helvey II ’53 4 February 2026
Ronald George Goldstone ’57 CDR, USN (Ret.) 24 January 2026
Joseph Lawrence Malone Jr. ’53 LT, USN (Ret.) 19 December 2025
John Joseph Turner Jr. ’57 CDR, USN (Ret.) 24 January 2026
Bradley Sutter ’53 6 Col, USAF (Ret.) 2 May 2024
Warren Adolph Woodrow ’57 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 30 April 2025 Henry Keith Jaeger ’58 Capt, USAF (Ret.) 3 September 2025
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Robert Roy Vaughan ’58 2 February 2026 Richard Keith Beggs ’59 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 5 January 2026 Thomas Hadley Billings ’59 CAPT, SC, USN (Ret.) 24 January 2026 Donald Lee Cromer ’59 6 Lt Gen, USAF (Ret.) 18 December 2025 Raymond Lloyd Forbes Jr. ’59 1 November 2025 John Anthony Langford Jr. ’59 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 9 February 2026 James Patrick McDevitt ’59 COL, USA (Ret.) 13 January 2026
William Morgan Keys ’60 LtGen, USMC (Ret.) 24 January 2026 Ronald Lee Koontz ’60 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 29 January 2026 Thomas Wesley McClure ’60 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 3 December 2025 Robert Joseph Spolyar ’60 8 December 2025 Larry Joseph Winslow ’60 26 January 2026 Alan Graham Greer ’61 6 21 December 2025 John Taylor Guthrie ’61 17 November 2025 Lyle Oliver Hoppie ’61 28 December 2025 Thomas William Lynch ’61 12 December 2025 George Herman Mathes Jr. ’61 3 February 2026 David Kegebein Sutelan ’61 30 January 2026
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 David Riggle Timm ’61 CDR, USNR (Ret.) 10 January 2026
Michael Airey Griffin ’65 6 CDR, JAGC, USN (Ret.) 17 April 2025
William Chappel Benton III ’62 6 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 20 December 2025
James Arthur Lawin ’65 18 December 2025
Ralph Thomas Gutierrez ’70 6 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 5 December 2025
Lawrence Joseph Leovic ’65 19 December 2025
Walter Francis Martin Jr. ’70 6 7 January 2026
Robert Yarroll Scott ’65 22 January 2026
Charles Allen Parlier II ’70 LtCol, USMCR 19 January 2026
Phillip Charles Henderson ’62 29 January 2026 Donald Gene Miller ’62 Col, USMC (Ret.) 20 October 2024 Robert Johnson Spane ’62 VADM, USN (Ret.) 23 November 2025 Leonard Dow Cool ’63 17 January 2026 James Joseph DeLong ’63 14 December 2025 Guillermo Alberto Devoto ’63 RADM, PN (Ret.) 21 December 2025 Albert Scott Wilson ’63 11 December 2025 Michael Patrick Caputo ’64 16 January 2026 Frederick Roberts Crawford ’64 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 27 January 2026 Richard Hamilton Hartlett ’64 29 January 2026 Douglas James Horton ’64 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 21 December 2025
John Wilkinson ’65 6 13 December 2025 James Ballou Cook II ’67 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 24 December 2025 Gerald John Corcoran ’67 6 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 17 December 2025 Francis Anthony Del Balzo Jr. ’67 6 27 December 2025 Richard William Kaluza ’67 14 December 2025 James Daniel McQueen Jr. ’67 22 December 2025 Michael Joel Williams ’67 Gen, USMC (Ret.) 6 December 2025 Clark Peat Crapps ’68 25 January 2026 Robert Scott Donohue Jr. ’68 15 January 2026 Jefferson Leon Prestridge ’68 13 January 2026
Karl William Turner ’64 27 December 2025
Lonnie Parker Hearne ’69 19 December 2025
Donald Albert Wellmann ’64 CDR, USN (Ret.) 27 December 2025
Thomas Michael Kirby ’69 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 17 December 2025
Richard Howe Wygant ’64 2 February 2026
Robert Thomas Pearce Jr. ’69 20 January 2026
Robert Maskell Brown ’65 9 February 2026
Royce Stewart Jr. ’69 10 December 2025
Orrin Leigh Grover III ’70 6 15 August 2025
Daniel Maltby Rugg III ’70 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 6 February 2026 Douglas Colin Lockwood ’71 9 January 2026 William George Nielsen ’71 16 January 2026 George Warren Perkins Jr. ’71 CDR, SC, USN (Ret.) 18 January 2026 Bruce Gene Towne ’71 6 11 December 2025 James Robert Yeakley ’71 31 January 2026 Walter William Manning II ’72 6 CDR, USN (Ret.) 3 June 2025 Ronald Bruce Staton ’72 4 January 2026 Richard Carter Williamson ’72 16 January 2026 David Michael Bolda ’73 13 December 2025 James Theodore Dohse ’73 LCDR, USN (Ret.) 1 December 2025 Thomas Oliver Matella ’73 1 February 2026 Jack Edward Owen Jr. ’73 6 February 2026
Gregory Joseph Rose ’73 6 CDR, USN (Ret.) 16 December 2025 Henry Joseph Netzer ’74 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 15 January 2026 Charles Robinson Jr. ’74 LtCol, USMC (Ret.) 14 December 2025 Bruce Allan Beemer ’75 CAPT, USNR (Ret.) 22 April 2025 Michael Clifford Farrell ’75 26 December 2025 Bruce Harry Morris ’75 6 21 December 2025 Robert Gary Zakula ’75 22 December 2025 Randel Leonard Zeller ’75 CAPT, USN (Ret.) 1 December 2025 Steven Austin Cavanaugh ’76 20 January 2026 Dale Glenn Meyer ’76 6 11 December 2025 Stanley Geron Gray ’77 6 Capt, USMC (Ret.) 1 December 2025 John Victor Salter ’77 6 February 2026 Rosser Owen Baker Jr. ’84 LtCol, USMC (Ret.) 25 January 2026 Michael Joseph D’Ambra ’87 6 12 December 2025 Thomas Keeshon Malone ’88 7 August 2021 Frank Enzo Pagura ’95 8 December 2025 William Kaimana McWayne Ahue ’06 2 February 2026
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LAST CALL RONALD THOMAS KELLY ’50
Captain Ronald T. Kelly, USN (Ret.), 97, of Virginia Beach, VA, passed away peacefully on 29 September 2025. “Ron” was born on 20 February 1928 in Montague City, MA, to Thomas Kelly and Helen (Milkey). During his first year of Army ROTC at Vermont’s Norwich Academy, he received an appointment to USNA. At Annapolis, Ron participated in the Glee Club and sailing team. He proudly graduated in 1950 and went on to lead a storied 30+ year military career. He and several newly-graduated classmates sailed a Navy schooner to Bermuda, but upon arrival, they learned of the conflict in Korea and had to return immediately to report for duty. Ron met and married the love of his life, Mary Margaret “Peggy” Walzl in Norfolk, VA, and they spent 65 years together. Ron served on several ships, including the newly-minted Sample as commissioning CO, and as CO of Newport News, the last of the heavy battle cruisers. He qualified as a nuclear engineer with the first group that developed the A1W Prototype nuclear reactor in Idaho. He served as a plankowner on Long Beach, the world’s first nuclear-powered surface combatant. Ron also served in Saigon, as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations ComNavForV and as both the senior advisor to the South Vietnamese Navy (VNN) Headquarters Operations Bloc and as VNN deputy CNO for Sea Operations. Among his many medals are the Defense Superior Service Medal and the Bronze Star. After Navy life, Ron was a senior executive for the Institute for Nuclear Power Operations (INPO) in Atlanta, GA, which helped worldwide nuclear power operations to develop and collaborate on international safety standards and self-regulations. His work afforded the opportunity for additional world travel. In retirement, Ron and Peggy settled in Virginia Beach. Active in his community, he was a member of the Witchduck Civic League and participated in multiple senior golf leagues. He dearly loved his family. A wealth of knowledge, he always enjoyed a good debate and was a sound resource for sage advice. Predeceased by Peggy (2022), Ron is survived by their loving son, Ronald Kelly Jr. (Benita); daughters, Catherine Wright and Margaret Wingfield (Steve); his devoted grandchildren, Anthony, Kelly Rae (Rick) and Kimberly (Sean); great-granddaughter, Maeve; and his sister Marilyn. He was predeceased by his sisters, Nancy and Diane. Ron was laid to rest with military honors at the Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery (Suffolk, VA) on 10 November 2025. H
JOHN ELLIS ARMSTRONG ’51
Commander John E. Armstrong, USNR (Ret.), passed away on 4 November 2025 at Pacific Grove, CA. He was 97 years old. John was born on 9 August 1928 in Decatur, IL. He graduated from Decatur High School in 1946 and attended the University of Illinois for one year before entering the Naval Academy, graduating with the Class of 1951. He then served in the destroyer Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729) during the Korean War, the staff of Commander Cruiser-Destroyer Force, Pacific, and Floyd B. Parks (DD-884). In 1955, he reported to the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, graduating in 1958 with a Master of Science in Engineering Electronics. He then served tours in Ticonderoga (CVA-14), 120 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Defense Communications Agency in Washington, DC, and in Halsey (DLG-231). In 1964, he transferred to inactive duty in the Naval Reserve. After earning a Master of Science in Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin in 1966, he became a member of the technical staff of General Telephone and Electronics (GTE) in Mountain View, CA, performing signal processing and analysis for the Navy and the National Security Agency. After 23 years with GTE, he retired to Monterey, where he taught mathematics part-time at Monterey Peninsula College, Cabrillo College, and the Naval Postgraduate School. Commander Armstrong is survived by his wife of 70 years, the former June Beyerlein; two daughters, Ellen Wrona (Jim) and Rebecca Cattedra (Tony); a granddaughter, Kristin (Mandell); and three great-grandsons, Zachaeus, Benjamiah and Gabriel. The Armstrong Family H
ROBERT EARL JACOB ’52
Captain Robert E. Jacob, USN (Ret.), 97, died on 15 January 2026 in Lancaster, PA. A 1946 graduate of Ridgewood (NJ) High School, “Bob” enlisted in the Navy and was an aerial photographer prior to entering the Naval Academy with a Secretary of the Navy competitive appointment. After graduating in 1952, he married Nancy Ann Bumsted of Westwood, NJ. He served on Coral Sea (CVB-43), then completed flight training at Pensacola, FL, and Corpus Christi, TX, earning his Wings in 1953. Tours included Patrol Squadron 50, Alameda, CA, with two deployments to Iwakuni, Japan, patrolling the waters around Korea and Japan; as an all-weather training instructor at Moffett Field CA; and studies at the Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA, graduating in 1959 with a degree in engineering electronics with an underwater acoustics sub-specialty. Bob then taught electronics to the senior classes back at the Naval Academy. Following a sea duty tour in ZP-3 (blimps) at NAS Lakehurst, NJ, he joined Patrol Squadron 49 in Bermuda, flying P5M-2 seaplanes, with an extended six-month, seven-plane deployment as detachment officer-in-charge to Naval Base Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, during the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis. His next assignments all involved undersea surveillance systems (SOSUS) with duties as commanding officer of the U.S. naval facilities in Puerto Rico and Wales, UK, and assignments as Head of Undersea Surveillance in the Pentagon, Office of the CNO, as well as CAESAR project officer in the Naval Electronic Systems Command. His final active service duty was as Head of Undersea Surveillance Systems for the CNO. Following his active duty, Bob was employed with Planning Systems Inc. of McLean, VA, as Principal Scientist for Undersea Surveillance Systems, and later formed his own company, providing consulting services to the Navy and civilian government contractors. His personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal for organizing and participating in the acoustics search which located the lost submarine Scorpion, the Meritorious Service Medal for contributions to the undersea surveillance capability of the Navy and the Legion of Merit for directing improvements in the undersea surveillance capability of Navy and for his contributions to bilateral talks with several foreign countries involved in undersea research. Bob is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughter, Christine S. Jackson (Captain David Jackson ’79, USN (Ret.)); grandson, Commander Michael Louis Jackson, MC, USNR, (Lieutenant Colonel Casey Jackson, USMCR); and three great-grandsons, Jacob, Calvin and Bradley. A private burial will take place at a later date. H
LAST CALL GLEN WALTER LENOX ’52
Rear Admiral Glen W. Lenox, USN (Ret.), died on 6 November 2025. He spent 70 of his 97 years with the love of his life, Jetta, who died in 2024. “Corky” was born in 1928 in Dayton, KY. The family moved often as his United Methodist minister father served churches in the central and eastern parts of the state. Glen attended Asbury College in Wilmore, KY, then the Naval Academy, graduating in 1952. During flight training in Pensacola, FL, he met Jetta Pitts and they married in 1954. His long and illustrious Navy career included 846 fixed-wing carrier landings, 16 carrier deployments, combat tours in Vietnam and serving as program manager for the F/A-18 Hornet. He led the Navy/Marine Corps team from the program’s beginning, through development, to the first production decision, ultimately overseeing the first fielded squadron at NAS Lemoore as Commander, Light Attack Wing, Pacific, an achievement of which he was particularly proud. Glen developed the concept of a true multi-mission carrier-based tactical aircraft and coined the term “strike fighter.” The F/A-18 was used by the Blue Angels for 34 years. Perhaps from moving so often in both childhood and adult life, Glen loved to be on the go, equally fond of planes, trains and automobiles (and navigating freeways as if in a cockpit). His curiosity and wonder about everything he saw out a window never lessened, and his delight in learning new things never ceased. Glen loved golf almost as much as he loved his family. He enjoyed perfecting his game at home courses and exploring new ones across the world; he played his final games at Kings County Country Club. In retirement, Glen volunteered at a variety of civic organizations and churches. He and Jetta joined Hanford First United Methodist in 2013, when they moved from San Diego. Glen is survived by his four children, Jennifer Shearer (Dan), Kelly Lenox (Chris Laskowski), Amy Medeiros (Adam) and Mark Lenox (Lynn); 11 grandchildren and their loved ones, along with a 12th who has been awaiting him in heaven; 8 great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and friends across the country. Interment took place at Bay View Cemetery in Pensacola, FL, next to his beloved Jetta. In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to: Valley Christian Home (www.valleychristianhome.com); or the Naval Academy Foundation (www.usna.com/give), which funds scholarships such as the one he benefited from, and publishes Shipmate, which gave him great joy throughout his long life. H
JAMES ARTHUR MORRISON JR. ’52
James A. Morrison Jr. passed away on 3 January 2026 in Las Vegas, NV. He was 95 years old. Born on 27 May 1930 in Long Beach, CA, he was the eldest of three children of Captain James A. Morrison ’26 and Ruth (McCormack) Morrison. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1952 but didn’t make the Navy his career. Instead, after a short time with the Army Corps of Engineers, he became an aerospace engineer with the Boeing Company. He met his wife, LaVerne Potts, in Washington, DC, and they were married on 3 September 1955, a joyful marriage that lasted more than 57 years until she passed away on 4 December 2012, at 83. During their
marriage, he had assignments in Cape Canaveral in Cocoa, FL, Fort Walton Beach, FL, New Orleans, LA, and Seattle, WA. In 1966, they settled in Bellevue, WA, and in 1998, the couple moved to Las Vegas to be close to their only child, Jane Ann Morrison, a former reporter and columnist with the Las Vegas Review-Journal. His favorite job with Boeing was working on the ground-to-air missile program to help protect the U.S. against enemy bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles. He ultimately became the lead engineer during BOMARC missile launches in Florida. He worked on the Minuteman (ICBM) Ground Test Program in Seattle. In 1964, he went to New Orleans to work on NASA’s Saturn Apollo Program. For a while, he was assigned to the Supersonic Transport Team, but when the program was canceled by the government, he moved into plant safety in the 747 manufacturing plant in Everett, WA. While still in Seattle in 1991, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma but after a successful bone marrow transplant in 1993 at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, he lived a rich life for another 33 years. The Morrisons traveled the world, including a three-month world cruise to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. The couple enjoyed dancing, reading and travelling together. He built and restored model ships, was a regular swimmer and drove security in Sun City Summerlin. Burial took place on 2 February 2026 at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, NV. Donations in his memory may be made to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave. N., Mail Stop LG-400, Seattle, WA 98109, or online at (www.fredhutch.org). H
BRADLEY SUTTER ’53
Colonel Bradley Sutter, USAF (Ret.), of Williamsburg, VA, passed away peacefully on 2 May 2024. He was 93 years old. Born in Rochester, MN, on 13 September 1930 to Armand and Edith Sutter, he spent his formative years in Austin, MN, with seven siblings. He was a member of many school sports teams and was prom king his senior year. In 1948-1949, he attended the University of Minnesota with an NROTC scholarship. After a year, he won an appointment to the Naval Academy, graduating in 1953 with a cross-commission into the U.S. Air Force. Fulfilling his dream of becoming a pilot, Bradley completed pilot training in Lubbock, TX. In 1963, he earned his master’s degree in aeronautical engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology. His career in the Air Force spanned 26 years, with increasingly senior positions, including flying the C-7 Caribou in Vietnam and roles with both strategic and tactical air commands. He was awarded the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster. After retiring from the Air Force, Bradley worked for 10 years at the International Civil Aviation Organization (part of the United Nations), based in Montreal, Canada. He and his wife, Nancy, retired to Williamsburg in 1991. Bradley was a president of the local Kiwanis chapter, as well as an active member of both the Crown Colony Club and the Naval Academy Alumni Association. He was, for many years, on the volunteer committee of the Michelob Classic at his beloved Kingsmill Golf Club. An avid sports fan, Bradley enjoyed watching golf and his Washington Nationals. He loved Irish folk songs, classical music and opera, and played his favorite Burt Bacharach songs on the piano. His quick wit and sharp sense of humor were perennial features at the Sutter dinner table.
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LAST CALL His beautiful and loving wife of 67 years, the former Anne Lee “Nancy” Williamson (daughter of Eleanor (Bitting) and Rear Admiral Francis T. Williamson ’31), passed away on 21 June 2025. He is survived by their children, Christian (Heather), and Amanda Ploughman (David) of Toronto, Canada. He was an incredibly proud “Papa” to his grandchildren, Colin, Will, Jordan, Julia, Nicholas, Catherine and Christopher. He was predeceased by his son, Bradley Scott Sutter, and his parents Armand and Edith. Services were held on 6 February 2026 at Arlington National Cemetery, followed by a celebration of life at the Ritz Carlton in Pentagon City. The Sutter Family H
PETER BIGELOW EASTON ’54
Captain Peter B. Easton, USN (Ret.), took his final “cat shot” on 26 January 2026. Born in Honolulu, HI, on 8 September 1931, he was a graduate of Admiral Farragut Academy and the U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1954. He made a career in the Navy, retiring as a captain in 1981. During his career he commanded Attack Squadron Sixty-Five and the Naval Air Station in Meridian, MS. He was also a graduate of the Armed Forces Staff College, Army War College and Defense Intelligence School. As a carrier pilot, he had almost 800 carrier landings, over 5,000 flight hours, and was a member of the Navy’s first operational A6 Intruder squadron that deployed to Vietnam in 1965. His last assignment was defense and naval attaché to the Republic of Singapore. Upon retiring from there in 1981, he and his wife, Kathy (daughter of Captain David R. Hull ’25, USN (Ret.), and Flora Keeher Hull), moved to the island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where he managed a small beachfront hotel before becoming a captain with the Virgin Islands Seaplane Shuttle. He and Kathy made the Virgin Islands their home for the next 29 years, yet managed to summer in Virginia Beach, witnessing the arrival of their grandchildren and travel to many other places where they had not yet been. In 2010, they moved to The Glenview, a retirement community in Naples, FL. Peter is survived by Kathy, his best friend and wife of 71 years; daughter, Wendy Easton of Naples, FL; son, “Bud” Easton (Nancy) of Virginia Beach, VA; grandchildren, Kate Easton Barber (Albert) and Easton Mendoza; a half-brother, William Easton of Charlottesville, VA; and two half-sisters, Joni Brown of Palo Alto, CA, and Pam Anderson of San Rafael, CA. He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Andrade; mother, Manoa Bigelow Easton; stepfather, Captain William T. “Bud” Easton ’29, USN (Ret.); sister, Bayne Mickley; and half-brother, Fredrick Easton. He will be interred in the Naval Academy Columbarium at a later date. Go Navy, Beat Army! H
LAST CALL GUIDELINES call: 410-295-4064 email: obits@usna.com online: www.usna.com/last-call
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THOMAS EMIL SANDMEYER ’55
Thomas E. Sandmeyer passed away on 15 December 2025 in Sebastian, FL. He was 93 years old. Born on 22 November 1932 in Minneapolis, MN, to Thomas Edward Sandmeyer, and Dorothy Rohbaum Sandmeyer, he was affectionately known as “Tim.” Prior to admission to the Naval Academy, Tim awaited his orders as an AE3 at Dutch Harbor, AK. At Annapolis, Tim fenced on the varsity squad, specializing in saber, and majored in electrical engineering and aeronautical engineering. He graduated with his 15th Companymates on 3 June 1955. The day after graduation, Tim and Elaine Ross were married in Jenkintown, PA. All of his groomsmen were freshly-minted ensigns, as well. He and Elaine went together to the jungles of the Philippines to establish a cryptological post with the Seabees and the Naval Security Group, where he was executive officer of a specialized detachment. Following this assignment, they returned to the United States, and NSG headquarters to complete his active duty in 1959. During this time, their first child, Scott, was born at Bethesda Naval Hospital (1958). Upon Tim’s honorable discharge from active duty, they relocated to the Tampa Bay, FL, area, where Tim was employed by Honeywell Aerospace. Two more children were born in Clearwater, FL, Mark (1960) and Lorraine (1962). At Honeywell, Tim was an engineering supervisor over guidance systems for various government projects during the heyday of NASA and the heat of the Cold War. A major promotion moved the entire family to the Seattle, WA, area in 1974, where Tim oversaw Honeywell’s Marine Systems Division until 1979. Tim wrapped up his career at Honeywell back in Tampa Bay, FL, in 1988. He and Elaine retired to St. Augustine, FL, for a few years, until the birth of their first grandchild, when they moved to Sebastian, FL. Tim and Elaine were both faithful followers of Jesus Christ and practiced Catholicism. They were active as Guardians ad Litem in St. Augustine. Tim was also active with the Lion’s Club and was a Knight of Columbus in Sebastian. Tim was an avid shooter, and member of several gun clubs in Washington, Tampa Bay and St. Augustine. Predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Elaine, in 2018, Tim is survived by their three children, Scott (Sandy), Mark and Lorraine; his brother, Robert (Grace); granddaughter, Kathryn (Dylan); grandson, Tim (Jessica); and great-grandson, Oliver. Interment will take place at Florida’s Cape Canaveral National Cemetery at a later date. H
GEORGE SYLVESTER CONNOLLY JR. ’56
Captain George S. Connolly Jr., USN (Ret.), died peacefully surrounded by family on 2 November 2025. George was born on 16 April 1932 to George S. Connolly Sr. and Rose (Axt) of Newark, NJ. He graduated from Seton Hall Preparatory School and Newark College of Engineering, where he received a congressional appointment to the Naval Academy. At Annapolis, he was a member of the 15th Company and graduated
with the Class of 1956. George attended Supply Corps School, followed by duty on Cimarron (AO-22), Uhlmann (DD-687) and the Executive Department at the
LAST CALL Naval Academy. From 1961-1964, he served at the Supply Depot, Yokosuka, Japan, then the Naval Subsistence Office, DC, 1964-1967. He earned an MBA from Michigan State and then reported to the Naval Support Activity, Danang, Republic of Vietnam 1968-1969; the Naval Development and Training Center, San Diego 1969-1972; then was supply officer on Ajax (AR-6). Next was the Naval Ships Parts Control Center, Mechanicsburg, PA, 1974-1977; and the Defense Logistics Agency, as OIC, DLA, Inspector General Regional. He returned to Mechanicsburg for his final assignment as Deputy Commander, Defense Depot 1980-1983. His decorations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal w/Oak Leaf Cluster and the Navy Commendation Medal. After retirement, he went to work as the Director of Vocational Education at the Technical Institute at Harrisburg Area Community College, and then as a field advisor for the Bureau of Vocational and Technical Education, State of Pennsylvania. George loved his community and did lifelong service. Volunteer activities included being a Rotarian, involved in youth education. He was a member and past president of the Tri-County Easter Seals; and for over 30 years, a member and past president of the Navy League of Harrisburg; a lifetime member of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA); and a volunteer and commissioner to the Governor’s Pennsylvania Military Community Enhancement Commission. George was a legacy member of St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, serving as both a lector and Eucharistic Minister. As part of his Catholic life, George was a member of the Knights of Columbus. George was predeceased by his loving wife of 65 years, Beverly A. Connolly. He is survived by their daughters, Karen Pietraccini (Richard) of Dallas, PA, Jeanne Dunlevy (Phillip) of Marlton, NJ, Alice Zenner of Frederick, MD, and Terese R. Essis (Robert) of Carlisle, PA; sons, Michael Connolly (Belinda) of Laguna Niguel, CA, and Richard Connolly of Mechanicsburg, PA; 17 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. H
ARMAND TISE EYLER JR. ’56
Captain Armand Tise Eyler Jr., USN (Ret.), passed away on 26 February 2025. “Tise” was born on 16 January 1934 to the Rev. Armand T. and Adeline Eyler. The 1956 Lucky Bag offers that “Tise’s pre-Academy days found him living in many different places, but he settled down long enough to graduate from Episcopal High in Alexandria (Virginia).” Tise was appointed to the Naval Academy from the State of Tennessee. Also from the Lucky Bag, “Tise’s varied interests included…primarily sailing. He participated in all the important races, including the long one to Bermuda and was the proud possessor of a Royono command card.” Two days after graduation, Tise married Patricia DeJoy. For his first duty, Tise entered aviation training in Pensacola, FL, and selected carrier-based anti-submarine warfare, flying the S-2F. In advanced flight training at Kingsville, TX, he became the first student to land the S-2F on a carrier in a trial program, which led to incorporating this activity in the advanced training syllabus. His flying career culminated with command of VS-21 in 1972. After 29 years of active duty, ending in Washington, DC, and having fallen in love with Jekyll Island, GA, during a spring visit in 1983, Tise and Patricia bought a home there and retired to the island in 1985. Tise taught Navy ROTC in a local high school for the next ten years, where he was honored as Teacher of the Year. Thereafter, he became a community volunteer, and in 1999 was elected chairman of the Jekyll Island Preservation Alliance, representing all residents, businesses and
hotel owners on Jekyll Island and undertook action that caused the Georgia legislature to put pressure on the local county commission to return local sales tax dollars to Jekyll. This was then accepted by the county commission as “the right thing to do.” Patricia passed away in 2014. Tise is survived by his wife of 10 years, Devy; sons, James Eyler (Nery) of Brunswick, GA, Gary Eyler (Donna) of Alexandria, VA, and David Eyler, of Concord, VT; five grandchildren, Erin Eyler and Lisa Eyler of Alexandria, VA, and Russhell Eyler, Tise Eyler and Janell Eyler of Brunswick, GA; and his sister, Marcelle Bonneau Taylor. Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date, where he will join Patricia. H
DONALD THOMAS FLOOD ’56
“Don” Flood passed away peacefully at his home in Green Valley, AZ, surrounded by his sons and grandsons on 22 December 2025. He was 91 years old. Born in Big Springs, TX, on 16 February 1934 to Lillian and Thomas Flood, he resided in Colorado City, TX. The family soon moved to Midland, TX, then to Houston, TX. As school age arrived, the family moved to New Orleans, LA, where Don attended school through graduation from Newman School in 1951. At the Naval Academy, Don was the Sixth Company Commander and participated in varsity crew. Upon graduation, he was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force. He served at Lorry AFB and Bitburg AFB, Germany, in the 1st Tactical Missile Squadron. He then left active duty, transferring to the Air Force Reserves. After serving, his career took him to Stanford University, where he earned an MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, then to the aerospace industry. With two colleagues, Don co-founded and served as executive VP of an engineering company heavily involved in the origins of the manned space program. From there, he served as VP and CEO of two high-tech manufacturing firms. He completed his working career owning a small computer systems business, serving the casino and recreational industries. Don was an active and competitive sportsman, which included running marathons, skiing, golf, tennis, bicycling and hiking. As a retirement diversion, he became active in Search and Rescue operations in the Reno, NV, sheriff’s department, then served as a reserve for the Arizona Highway Patrol. Retirement led to years of motor homing throughout North America and Mexico. Don married Betty Richert shortly after his USNA graduation and they enjoyed 67 years of togetherness, raising a family and enjoying sports and travel. Predeceased by Betty in February 2025, Don is survived by their two sons, Andrew, residing in Cardiff by the Sea, CA, and Big Sky, MT, and Tyler, residing in San Diego, CA; and two grandsons, Dillon and Mason, both residing in San Diego, CA. The Flood Family H
COLUMBARIUM UPDATE www.usna.com/columbarium-update
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 123
LAST CALL MICHAEL ROBERT GLUSE ’56
Captain Michael R. Gluse, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 6 December 2025. He was 94 years old. Michael was born in Waterbury, CT, on 17 September 1931, the son of World War I combat veteran, Michael Gluse and his wife, Tecla (Demianowicz), and brother of World War II combat veteran, Edward M. Gluse. He earned a BS (Naval Science) from the Naval Academy in 1956, followed by an MS (Mechanical Engineering) from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, in 1962. In 1954, he met Barbara Louise Anderson, and on 9 June 1956, they were married in a military ceremony at the Mill Plain Union Church in Waterbury. During his 39-year naval career, Michael had varied assignments ashore and at sea, but he is most recognized as Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s 95th commander, where he was responsible for the planning and execution of multi-million-dollar overhauls of nuclear-powered submarines, aircraft carriers and other surface ships. During his combined change of command and retirement ceremony in 1987, Norfolk Naval Shipyard was awarded the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation for its distinguished performance in the overhaul, repair and modernization of naval vessels. Highly respected by those who knew him, Michael was a devoted and loyal husband, a supportive and loving father and a trustworthy and dependable friend. He found joy and satisfaction in nearly everything he did. You would often find him fixing his car, playing golf, studying world history, working in the yard, figuring out the most current technology on his computer, or watching a Pittsburgh Steelers football game. He was an animated and descriptive storyteller whose anecdotes now remain cherished and delightful memories for both family and friends. Michael was predeceased by his wife, Barbara; his parents, Michael and Tecla; and his brother, Edward (Anne). He is survived by his two children, Shelley L. Brooks (Michael) of Chesapeake, VA, and Eric M. Gluse (Ann) of Columbia, SC; granddaughter, Margaret A. Gluse; and his niece, Sally Nelson of Kailua-Kona, HI. A celebration of his life is being planned for February 2026 at the Elizabeth Manor Golf and Country Club in Portsmouth, VA, where he played golf for many years. For his complete obituary and to leave condolences for the family, please visit (www.sturtevantfh.com). The Gluse Family H
DARRELL EUGENE JONES ’56
Commander Darrell E. Jones, CEC, USN (Ret.), passed away on 2 August 2025 at his home in Murray, UT. He was 93 years old. Darrell was born on 12 July 1932 to Horace and Ethel Jones in Salt Lake City, UT. After attending the University of Utah for two years, he reported to USNA as a member of the Seventh Company. As a Firstie, he was the disc jockey for the radio station, WRNV. During his years at Annapolis, he became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Darrell’s first assignment following graduation was on Lexington. In 1958, was accepted to attend Renssalaer Polytechnic Institute where he received a Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree. His first duty as a Civil Engineering Corps officer was the Public Works Center at Pearl Harbor, HI. During his time there, he met Kathy Neeley, and they were married 124 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
in 1961. He was assigned to Oak Harbor, WA, as Public Works Officer (1962) and at the Marine Corps Supply Center in Barstow, CA (1963), where he was Officer in Charge of Construction. He was OICC in Bangkok, Thailand (1966) and Saigon, Vietnam (1968). He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V in 1969. After serving as Public Works Officer at Naval Supply Center, Oakland, CA, for five years, he reported to Ogden, UT, at the Defense Depot as Service Division Director. He received the Meritorious Service Medal (1974 and 1976) and retired from the Navy in 1976. The family moved to Cottonwood Heights, UT, where he owned a bookstore. After selling the bookstore, he took a job as Public Works Director and Director of Development Service for West Jordan City, UT. Several years after retirement in 1991, his wife, Kathy, passed away from cancer. In 1994, he met and married Kay S. Utley. They served an LDS mission in Laie, HI, and traveled the world (often flying Space-A). Darrell served in many capacities for the LDS church, including volunteering at the Church History Museum as a docent and worked faithfully for the church history department, researching and writing reports on historical buildings. Darrell is survived by his wife, Kay Secrist Jones; children, Bruce Jones, Laurie Rehmer and Marti Blotter; stepchildren, Steve Utley, Christian Utley and Jon Utley; 20 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held on 16 August 2025 at Green Oaks LDS Chapel in Murray, UT, with burial in Salt Lake City, UT. H
RONALD GEORGE GOLDSTONE ’57
Commander Ronald G. Goldstone, USN (Ret.), died peacefully at his home in Maine on 24 January 2026, after a life marked by service, intellect and accomplishment. Born on 22 February 1935, in Geneva, NY, “Ron” was the eldest of four sons of Samuel Goldstone and Philomena “Phyllis” Di Pillo. A gifted student and athlete, he graduated from Geneva High School in 1953 and was appointed to the Naval Academy. He graduated with the Class of 1957, was commissioned as an ensign, and earned a BS in communications engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. He served for 22 years as a naval officer, retiring in 1979. His career included shipboard and shore assignments in the Pacific and Mediterranean, overseas service in Okinawa, staff roles at the Pentagon and four years in Brussels with NATO. He had a pivotal senior operational role during the Cold War, fully aware of the consequences of error and the weight of that responsibility. Following his naval retirement, he worked in programming and logistics management at Raytheon in Portsmouth, RI. In 1994, he and his wife established a permanent home in Maine, where he embraced civic life. He was elected to the Dexter Town Council, was active in the Kiwanis and hosted two weekly talk shows on local FM station WDME. An avid reader, he kept meticulous records of hundreds of books enjoyed over decades. He was a talented artist whose canvases and prints were exhibited and admired. He fulfilled a lifelong ambition to learn the five-string banjo, played bridge with enthusiasm, golfed regularly and - despite being from New York - was a devoted fan of the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics. He was a prolific and passionate contributor to the letters section of newspapers in Maine and Florida, writing with care and conviction. He traveled extensively with his wife, conquering 38 countries. He married Beverly Jean Lancaster of Dexter, ME, in 1960. She was his best friend and companion for 65 years and the center of his life. In
LAST CALL addition to Beverly, Ron is also survived by special nieces and nephews; his faithful poodle, Penny; and his daughter, Elisabeth, who mourns the loss of her North Star. He was predeceased by his three younger brothers, Gene, Tom and Ed. He will be remembered as a man of dry wit and quiet integrity—a true Renaissance man whose curiosity never dimmed and whose sense of duty never wavered. H
THOMAS RANSOM WEISSINGER ’57
Commander Thomas R. Weissinger, USN (Ret.), well-loved by all, passed away on 2 December 2025. He was 90 years old. Born in the small town of Cary, MS, “Tom” was one of seven children of Harry and Ethel Weissinger. He had roots in farming and family that gave him a respectful, southern vibe he carried throughout his life, despite leaving the Mississippi Delta at 18 to attend the Naval Academy. At Navy, he was a stalwart on the 15th Company volleyball team. Tom met Suzanne Stewart in Washington, DC, in 1967, and six months later, they were married. During his distinguished 26-year Navy Supply Corps career, Tom was stationed in Spain and Iceland and sailed the Arabian Sea, yet he ultimately returned to Annapolis, MD, where he later retired as a commander. Tom and “Suzy” spent almost 50 years here, renovating and renting historic houses, raising their family, traveling the world, rooting for Navy sports and sponsoring Naval Academy midshipmen. After “retiring,” Tom went on to be the business manager at the Key School in Annapolis, where he was an integral member of the Key School family. Tom had a passion for traveling with Suzy, and he was fiercely competitive at the bridge table. Always faithful to God, he served as a vestry member and parishioner of Mt. Calvary Anglican Church in Lothian, MD. A faithful and gentle soul, Tom/Jere/Commander/Papa/Pops, was known for his work hard, play hard nature throughout his life and for his devotion to Suzy. He was usually found tending to his gardens, walking/ running around the Yard at USNA, or serving drinks to friends, seldom sitting still unless it was to work a crossword puzzle. Predeceased by his beloved wife of 56 years, Suzy, in 2024, Tom is survived by their children, Thomas Weissinger II (Karen Connolly) and Georgianna “Ganna” Weissinger; grandchildren, Allison and Andrew Weissinger, of whom he was very proud; and David Antelo, a former Spanish exchange student he considered part of the family. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. Tom will be remembered for his dedication to family and country, while being self-sufficient and quietly generous. A celebration of his life took place on 10 January 2026 in Annapolis. Memorial gifts may be made to his original, and recently tornado ravaged church, Chapel of the Cross Episcopal Church, PO Box 276, Rolling Fork, MS 39159; or Mt. Calvary Anglican Church, 812 MD-408, Lothian, MD 20711. H
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DAVID GREEAR BURDEN ’58
Lieutenant Commander David G. Burden, USN (Ret.), peacefully went to meet Jesus on 6 December 2025 in Williamsburg, VA. “Dave” was born in Pensacola, FL, on 13 June 1935, while his father, Harvey P. Burden ’30 was getting his Wings. At Annapolis, Dave was in the 19th Company and graduated with the Class of 1958. In March 1959, he married Loretta Silver of Rossville, GA, whom he met in Athens, GA, while attending Supply Corp School and she was attending UGA. Over the next several years, he served in Valley Forge (CVS-45) as stock control officer, 1960; Alcor (AK-259) as supply officer; at Clarksville, TN (SWAPO) 1962; in Naha, Okinawa, as stock control officer (1964-1966); in Philadelphia, PA (ASO) as aeronautical repairables supply officer (1966-1969); in Cam Rahn Bay, Vietnam, as supply and fiscal officer (1969-1970). For services performed in Vietnam, he received the Bronze Star w/Combat V, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnamese Honor Medal First Class and numerous campaign ribbons. He also served in Naples, Italy, as stock control officer (1970-1974), and in Moffett Field, CA, as supply officer (1974-1978). He retired from the Navy in 1978. Dave earned a master’s degree from Boston College in International Relations, a master’s degree from USCLA in Systems Management and an MBA from The George Washington University in Finance. In his civilian life, Dave worked for RCA, GE and Lockheed Martin. He worked on the Phalanx program and the Polaris program. For each program, he managed the repair of aeronautical repairables. In retirement, Dave was active in the church and the homeowner’s association (HOA), dealing exclusively in finance and accounting. He performed these duties in Moorestown, NJ, Charlottesville, VA, and Raleigh, NC. Preceded in death by his loving wife, Lori, Dave is survived by his brother, Harvey W. Burden ’55; daughters, Kelley Miller (Scott) and Dana Charbonneau (Edward); grandchildren, David Charbonneau, (Melody), Rebecca Charbonneau Turner (Jesse), Maggie Miller Cusamano (Patrick), Benjamin Charbonneau (Hannah) and Isabelle Miller Myers (Dylan); six great-grandchildren; and several nephews and nieces and their families, all of whom he loved. A memorial service took place at Patriots Colony in Williamsburg, VA, on 30 January 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Riverside Foundation, “Riverside College of Health Careers Make a Difference Fund” for scholarships for staff at Patriots Colony (www.riversideonline. com/give). Dave was interred at the Naval Academy Columbarium on 2 February 2026. DGB ’58 H
WILLIAM HENRY DAWSON ’58
Captain William H. Dawson, USN (Ret.), passed away from natural causes on 11 November 2025, appropriately on Veteran’s Day, in McLean, VA. He was 90 years old. “Bill” was born on 29 July 1935 in the Panama Canal Zone to Charles Dawson and Frances (nee Butler) Dawson. After attending Balboa High School in the Canal Zone, Bill left Panama to attend the Colorado School of Mines Engineering School in Golden, CO. After he completed his freshman year there, Bill decided to transfer to the Naval Academy, where he graduated as a member of the Class of 1958. MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 125
LAST CALL Shortly after graduation, Bill married Constance “Connie” Glassburn on 7 June 1958 in Annapolis, and they had three sons in short order. Bill spent his next 29 years in the Navy, primarily serving on various surface vessel assignments, with increasing rank and responsibilities. The highlight of his Navy career was when he was the commanding officer of Brewton, a fast frigate destroyer stationed in Pearl Harbor, HI. After retiring from the Navy in 1987, Bill spent the next phase of his career working for several defense contractors, including RCA (implementing AEGIS systems) and working with the Taiwanese Navy to help standardize their attack vessel operating procedures. Throughout his naval career, Bill and his family moved frequently, sharing adventures together, as many military families do. Most of their time was spent on the East Coast, including Virginia Beach, Northern Virginia and Newport, RI, before moving to Pearl Harbor, HI, in the mid-1970s. Despite his frequent travels, Bill always found time to support his family and the pursuits of his sons – whether it was academic or athletic activities. He maintained a good, quirky sense of humor, enjoyed reading mysteries and historical non-fiction, watching old classic movies, performing his own financial/investing research and playing his beloved piano. Bill was a great dad, a loving husband and a thoughtful and dedicated friend. Bill is survived by his sons, Bob Dawson (Mary Curran), Pat Dawson (Yvonne Scott) and Doug Dawson (Susan Foster); five grandchildren, Conor, Mary, Brandon, Alyssa and Sydney; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his wife, Connie, and his brothers, Herb and Michael Dawson. Fair winds and following seas, Captain Dawson. You stood your watch well. H
ROBERT WESLEY MUSGROVE ’58
Captain Robert W. Musgrove, USN (Ret.), of Liberty, SC, passed away on 11 December 2025 after a lengthy struggle with dementia. “Bob” was born on 9 September 1933 in Fairland, MD, to Millard William Musgrove and Ethel Marie (Wright), and grew up on the family farm. After graduating from Montgomery Blair High School (Silver Spring, MD), where he played baseball, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After serving as a radio operator flying in AF-3S, he received an appointment to USNA, where he played lacrosse. Upon graduation in 1958, he was commissioned as a Navy ensign and attended flight training in Florida and Texas. He married his long-time sweetheart, Eve Marguerite Branamen, in the Naval Academy Chapel in December 1958. They raised their children at duty stations across the country and at Bracknell, England. Bob maintained great pride in his service as a naval aviator. He piloted the A-1 Skyraider (VA-15), A-7 Corsair II (VA-105 and VA-174) and the A-4 Skyhawk (VF-126, as commanding officer). He completed 8,000+ flight hours, over 900 carrier landings, a combat tour on board Kitty Hawk in 1969 and was an instructor at TopGun. He graduated from the Naval Postgraduate School, the Naval War College, the Royal Air Force Command and Staff College and The George Washington University (MBA and MBM degrees); and taught at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He was named Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair and learned to speak Chinese. His awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Air Medals (w/Combat V), Navy Commendation Medal (w/Combat V), Navy Achievement Metal (w/Combat V), Navy Good Conduct Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal.
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After retiring from the Navy, “Mus,” moved to Snow Hill, MD, and spent three years restoring a large pre-civil war house. He remained physically active and adventurous, visiting Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Vietnam (as a tourist), hiked the Appalachian Trail (end to end) and biked coast-to-coast. Ultimately, he retired to Liberty, where he planted and maintained a fruit and pecan orchard. He is survived by his wife of nearly 67 years, Eve; their children, Robert Wesley (Janet), Karen Ann Ardis (Ron) and MaryLynn (Mehernosh Mody); grandchildren, Claire, Colleen and Robert III; and brother, Sam (Peggy). He was predeceased by his siblings, William and Lois Anne. He will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery at a future date. Please direct memorials to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (https://www.nmcrs.org) or Interim Hospice Care (https://tinyurl.com/ InterimHospice). H
DONALD LEE CROMER ’59
Lieutenant General Donald L. Cromer, USAF (Ret.), passed away peacefully on 18 December 2025 in Knoxville, TN, from heart failure. He was 89 years old. “Don” was born in 1936 in Grand Junction, CO, to Alvis Cromer and Wilma Gibson Cromer, the second oldest of 11 children. Following his graduation from Lewis & Clark High School in Spokane, WA, Don attended Washington State University for one year before entering the U.S. Naval Academy. Upon graduating from USNA in 1959, he was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force. During his distinguished career, he rose to the rank of lieutenant general, where his leadership significantly advanced national aerospace and space exploration, greatly benefiting our country. After his retirement from the Air Force in 1991, Don joined Hughes Space Communications Company, where he served as president from 1993 through 1998. He later built a strong private-sector portfolio consulting globally on several boards. Don’s drive and work ethic extended beyond his military and satellite career and were equally evident in his personal life. He was a builder and creator with a lifelong willingness to give back by helping others. An avid golfer and bridge player, he especially enjoyed sharing these interests with his wife and partner, Carole. Don also volunteered his time in support of many causes, most notably with the Optimist Club of Knoxville, where he served as trustee for the club’s scholarship program. Don was preceded in death by his wife of 23 years, Carole Goldsmith Cromer, in August 2025; as well as his former wives, Sally Cromer, who died in 1997, and Bobbie Cromer, who died in 2022. Don is survived by his children with Sally, Cathy Snow and Melinda Cromer; granddaughters, LeAnn and Jennie; Bobbie’s children, Clay Campbell, Victoria Campbell and Colin Campbell (Denise); and grandchildren, Donovan, Jennifer, Cory and Cameron; Carole’s children, Debbie Papish and Mark Papish (Linda); and grandchildren, Brianna, Brian and Ethan; his six brothers, Al, Ken, John, Jack, Jim and David Cromer; and his sister, Valeta Pariseau. He was predeceased by his parents, Alvis and Wilma Cromer; and brothers, Leon, Gary and Bob Cromer. A service of remembrance, followed by interment with military honors, took place at Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, on 23 January 2026. Scholarship donations in Don’s memory to the Knoxville Optimist Club (www.knoxoptimist.org) would be a meaningful tribute. H
LAST CALL RICHARD EATON DODSON ’60
Captain Richard E. Dodson, USN (Ret.), of Lubbock, TX, died from complications of Parkinson’s disease on 26 December 2025. He was 89 years old. “Dick” was born in San Diego, CA, to then-Lieutenant (later Captain) Lucian F. Dodson ’31 and Virginia (Eaton). He grew up in a typically itinerant Navy family during and after World War II. Entering the Naval Academy from Patuxent River, MD, he was a member of
the 17th Company. During his 30 years as a Surface Warfare Officer, Dick served in Vesole (DDR-878) during the Cuban Missile Crisis; in Ingraham (DD-694); as a “Black Beret” on swift boats in Vietnam; as executive officer in Robert L. Wilson (DD-847); and commanded Jonas Ingram (DD-938) (May 1976-July 1978). Dick served ashore as the Naval Academy commandant’s aide and then 22nd Company officer (1965-1967); on the OpNav staff; as an instructor at the Naval War College; and as Director of Training at Fleet Training Group Guantanamo Bay. He commanded Fleet Training Center Mayport and then NROTCU Texas Tech University as his final duty, retiring in June 1990. In addition to graduating from the Army War College in 1979, Dick also earned a master’s degree from the University of Rhode Island in 1981. Following retirement, Dick and his wife, Deborah, a middle school English teacher, remained in Lubbock, where he had been inspired to move by the paperback Westerns he read on his many deployments. They traveled extensively in several RVs during the summers, accompanied by a varying menagerie of four-legged family members, across a wide swath of the Western and Southern United States. He earned his private pilot’s license with an instrument rating, owning a small airplane and then a succession of motorcycles, on which he traveled thousands of miles around West Texas. Although increasingly limited by declining health in his later years, Dick was known as a kind and generous person to anyone in need, be they two-legged or four-legged. He was especially fond of the many dogs they adopted over the years. Dick is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Deborah; sons, Rich ’89 (Shelly), Clif and Stephen (Renee); his brother, Michael (Linda); and two grandsons, Taite and Tristan. He was predeceased by his first wife, Adele, in 1985. Inurnment will take place at the Naval Academy Columbarium at a later date. The Dodson Family H
WARD JAMES O’BRIEN ’60
Colonel Ward J. O’Brien, USA (Ret.), of Sterling, VA, and formerly of Warrenton, VA, passed away on 16 November 2025 at INOVA Loudoun Medical Center in Lansdowne, VA, of a massive stroke. He was 88 years old. Ward was born in Aurora, IL, on 4 September 1937 to Attorney William C. O’Brien and Dorothy Ward O’Brien. He graduated from Marmion Military Academy (1955), the U.S. Naval Academy (Class of 1960) and American University (1993). He spent 28 years in the Navy, achieving the rank of captain, then transferred to the Army to fly helicopters, retiring in 1997.
He was a captain for United Airlines, and also produced a collection of 83 interview videos, which are archived in the Library of Congress called “American Valor,” that honors U.S. veterans and their military history. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, the former Barbara Ellen Rae, of Needham, MA; five children, Patricia O’Brien, Alicia O’Brien, Andrea Ingebretsen, William O’Brien and Kimberly O’Brien; four grandchildren, Rachel, Brian, Grace and Ari; a great grandson, Ethan; and his sister, Alberta “Betts” Clippinger of Nashville, TN. A celebration of life and services will be at a future date with his interment at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider the following organizations for memorial contributions: St. Jude Children’s Research Medical Center (www.stjude.org), Ronald McDonald House (https://ronaldmcdonald house.org), The Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarrior project.org), Disabled American Veterans (www.dav.org) or the Make-A-Wish Foundation (https://wish.org). Online condolences may be made at (www.moserfuneralhome.com). H
PATRICK CHARLES FITZPATRICK ’61
“Paddy” FitzPatrick passed away on 19 November 2025 in Leesburg, VA. He was born on 8 June 1939 in Jersey City, NJ, to Irish immigrants Joseph and Hannah (McKeown) FitzPatrick, the youngest of six children. Growing up just outside of New York City, Paddy attended Regis High School, where he was captain of the basketball team. He went on to attend and graduate from the Naval Academy in 1961, where he won two consecutive National Championships as a lacrosse player. After serving in the Navy aboard a nuclear submarine (much like his brother, “Captain Joe”), with a rank of lieutenant commander, Paddy went on to graduate from the Wharton School of Business. While attending graduate school, he married Marion Lynn Begley, of Swarthmore, PA. His long and successful career brought him, along with his young family, to different locales on the globe, including Dublin, Ireland and Nairobi, Kenya. After residing briefly in Chicago, IL, and Westport, CT, Paddy and family eventually settled in Northern Virginia. Paddy was passionate in all aspects of his life. During his impressive career, he was chief financial officer for companies including the First National Bank of Chicago, PRC and Dyncorp International. An avid basketball and tennis player, golfer, and even the oldest member of Navy’s “Old Goats” reunion lacrosse team in 2000, Paddy was a lifelong athlete. When he wasn’t on the court or field himself, he was busy coaching his children’s youth basketball and lacrosse teams. He loved watching college sports, particularly his beloved Navy, and was especially fond of March Madness basketball. He is remembered by many for his love of a good time and robust sense of humor. Paddy was a beloved father to Brendan, Rory (Catherine Laura) and Conor (Emily Ann) FitzPatrick. He is remembered with love by his grandchildren, Owen, Morgan, Caden, Bodhi and Asher. He is also remembered by innumerable nieces and nephews, both grand and great; and his former wife, Marion, with whom he maintained a strong relationship. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Joseph (Patricia Sommerkamp), Brigid, Jack (Doris Bachman), Alice (Carl) and Sally. Funeral services were held at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church in Potomac Falls, VA, on 19 December 2025. The FitzPatrick Family H
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LAST CALL ALAN GRAHAM GREER ’61
Alan G. Greer, a distinguished Miami lawyer, community pillar, author, Navy man, beloved friend and mentor to many, died on 21 December 2025. He was 86. Alan’s commitment to service was evident from his early days. He was born on 31 May 1939 in Eldorado, AR, and was raised in Alexandria, VA, then Miami, FL, where he graduated from Miami Edison High School in 1957. He entered the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1961, and spent the next six years as a naval officer, including four years on submarines. He volunteered for duty in Vietnam and spent his last year of service there, for which he received multiple military honors. After leaving the Navy, Alan attended law school at the University of Florida. Upon graduating, he joined the firm of Frates, Fay Floyd and Pearson; he remained with that firm, which later became Richman Greer, PA, for his full 52 years of trial practice. In a legal career spanning more than 50 years, Alan built a reputation as a consummate, ethical trial lawyer, specializing in complex litigation, political and environmental issues. He was involved in the 1970 Watergate cases, defending John Ehrlichman and Bebe Rebozo. During the 2000 presidential election, he represented the Democratic Party in the Bush vs. Gore cases. Although he had a demanding law practice, Alan made time to serve his community in many ways. He was chair of the board of WLRN, Miami’s public radio station. He was most proud of his involvement with Camillus House, the largest provider of care to the homeless in Miami-Dade County. He served on the Camillus board for 25 years, three as chair. Alan was also a devout Christian, deeply interested in the role of faith in everyday life. He wrote three books: Choices and Challenges and God Is, examining the circumstantial evidence of God’s existence and man’s relationship to God and with each other; and Who Do You Say I Am, a novel based on the life of Jesus Christ. He is survived by his wife, the love of his life, Senior United States District Judge Patricia Seitz. Alan is also survived by his sister, Linda Davis; nieces, Paige Patterson Hughes and Jordan Seitz; grandnephews, Ian and Connor Hughes; remaining godchildren, Kimberley Verploeg, Taylor Henry, Celine Valenti, Kathleen (Katie) Crowley, Kathleen (Kat) Mendez, Jo Ackermann and Dylan Hughes; and his “adopted” grandson, Lieutenant Michael Andres Sanchez ’21, USN. H
THOMAS GEORGE POLLAK ’61
Thomas G. Pollak of Naples, FL, passed away on 12 September 2025. He was 86 years old. Born in McKeesport, PA, to Rudoph A. Pollak and Rose (Wargo), “Tom” graduated from McKeesport High School in 1957 and received a congressional appointment to the United States Naval Academy. He graduated and received a commission as a Navy ensign with the Class of 1961. Tom served for seven years in various surface assignments and was honorably discharged as a lieutenant in 1968.
On 31 August 1968, Tom married Patricia J. Schiffman of McKeesport. They recently celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary. Tom’s civilian career was with Aluminum Company of America (ALCOA) in the areas of engineering, construction, construction contracting and purchasing at locations in Cleveland, OH; Newburgh, IN; Lafayette, IN; Palestine, TX; Pittsburgh, PA; and Lebanon, PA. Upon retirement from ALCOA in 1997, Tom and Pat moved to Marco Island, FL, where they lived for 13 years. In 2010, they moved to Naples, FL. He was very active at Wesley United Methodist Church on Marco Island and Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, where he was a longtime volunteer and a member of the board of directors. Preceded in death by his parents, Tom is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Pollak; their son, Tye Pollak (Cristal) of Louisville, KY; his brother, Rudy Pollak (Sandy) of Laguna Niguel, CA; sister, Raina Sivillo (Tony) of Petaluma, CA; and three grandsons, Jacob, Sean and Caleb. The Pollak Family H
Captain William C. Benton III, USNR (Ret.), passed away on 20 December 2025 at his home in Satellite Beach, FL. “Bill,” also known as “Chap,” was born on 12 December 1940 in Mansfield, GA. He graduated from high school at the age of 17 and attended the Naval Academy. After graduating with the Class of 1962, he began his flight career training in the T-28 Trojan training aircraft, before eventually flying the S-2E Tracker off Essex and other aircraft carriers. Bill also trained future pilots until leaving active duty in 1968. While in the Naval Reserves, Bill achieved the rank of captain and flew P-2 Neptune and P-3 Orion throughout the early 1990s. He enjoyed his career as a commercial aviation pilot, flying Boeing 727s, 737s and Folker F28s for TWA, Piedmont Airlines and US Airways before retiring in 2000. In retirement, Bill was an avid Chiefs fan and served as an expert judge for barbecue cooking contests. He was a fixture in the Tortoise Island community of Satellite Beach. His smile and laugh were infectious. In addition to his parents, Elaine Conwell Benton and William C. Benton Jr., Bill was preceded in death by his daughter, Marybeth Benton; his brother, Jeff Benton; and his sister, Martha Lane. Bill is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jane E. Martin Benton; and their son, Stephen Benton (Tiffany) of Winter Park, FL; as well as his sister, June Webb of Atlanta, GA. He will be sorely missed by his grandchildren, Gavin Benton and Haley Benton. He also leaves behind many family members and friends that cherished and loved him. A memorial service was held in Indian Harbour Beach, FL, on 31 January 2026, followed by inurnment at the Church of Our Saviour Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Cocoa Beach, FL. Military honors were rendered by a U.S. Navy honor guard and the North Brevard Firing Squad. A Celebration of Life took place in Satellite Beach, FL, on 28 March 2026. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.PanCAN.org). To plant trees in his memory, please visit the web site www.legacy.com/sympathy/plant-trees. The Benton Family H
MEMORIAL AFFAIRS RESOURCES www.usna.com/memorial-services
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WILLIAM CHAPPEL BENTON III ’62
LAST CALL WILLIAM CHARLES HUGHES JR. ’63
Captain William C. Hughes Jr., USN (Ret.), passed away on 12 November 2025, in San Diego, CA. He was 85 years old “Bill” was born in Montgomery, AL, the eldest of five boys of Rear Admiral William C. and Mary Hughes. He graduated from Gonzaga High School in Washington, DC, in 1959; and With Distinction from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1963. He was a ringleader member and Company Commander of the Sixth Company. Following graduation, he completed Nuclear Power training and Submarine School. He then served several sea tours, interspersed with shore duty, in John C. Calhoun (SSBN-630), Alexander Hamilton (SSBN-617) and as executive officer of Silversides (SSN-679). Bill then commanded Flasher (SSN-613) and then commissioned and commanded Olympia (SSN-717). His final command was Submarine Squadron Three. Shore assignments included the Armed Forces Staff College, Bureau of Naval Personnel (officer assignments), Nuclear Propulsion Examining Board (senior member) and the Joint Staff (J6). After his retirement on 1 April 1992, Bill carried his leadership and technical skills into the nation’s power generation industry. He joined North American Energy Services in Washington State, and then Sithe Energies, where he was in charge of power generation in the San Diego, CA, area, before being selected by Sithe as Senior VP of Operations. After another fulfilling career, he retired in 2006. Bill Hughes was the leading sports fan at all of his grandsons’ athletic endeavors and was “Pops” to all of the southern California Hughes family. Bill’s favorite pastimes included travelling with Dottie and friends, spending quality time with his children and grandchildren, sampling and collecting fine wines and playing golf. He actively supported the Navy League of the United States and the Naval Submarine League. He is survived by the love of his life, the former Dorothy “Dottie” Boyles of Falls Church, VA; their son, Bill III (Jackie); daughter, Paige Ryan (Mark); four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his brothers, Frank ’66 (Denise), Paul (also a Navy submariner) (Ronnie) and Michael (Fran). His brother, Robert ’67 (Sherie), a naval aviator, perished in a tactical aircraft accident at TopGun in 1979. Military services and inurnment will be at a time to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Alzheimer’s San Diego (https://www.alzsd.org). The Hughes Family H
JARY WILLIAM LEWIS ’63
Commander Jary W. Lewis, USN (Ret.), passed away at his home in Florida on 3 December 2025. He was 86 years old and had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. “Lew” was born in Montour, IA, to Eldora and Dallas Lewis on 22 April 1939. He graduated from Springdale High School in Springdale, AR, in 1956 and was awarded a one-year state scholarship to the University of Arkansas. After a year of college, he tested for a new nuclear program and became the second ever nuclear field seaman recruit. After taking the NAPS exam, it was on to a conventional submarine, Razorback (SS-394). A few days later, he was called in and asked if he still wanted to attend the Naval Academy. His response was that he “never wanted anything else,” to which the yeoman replied, “pack your seabags.”
Lew joined the USNA plebe class in the summer of 1959. While at Annapolis, he met Sue and they were married soon after graduation in June 1963. He attended Nuclear Power Training and Submarine School. During his 27-year career, he served on several fleet ballistic missile submarines, including James Monroe (SSBN-622), Nathanael Greene (SSBN-636), Kamehameha (SSBN-642) and Andrew Jackson (SSBN-619). In January of 1980, he took command of Daniel Boone (SSBN-629, Blue). Other assignments included a tour of duty at Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) in DC and Submarine School in New London, CT. His last tour was at the Chief of Naval Technical Training in Millington, TN. After retiring from the Navy, he joined General Physics Corp. in Alexandria, VA. In 2004, he moved to Port St. Lucie, FL, with high hopes of never being cold again. He enjoyed fishing, playing golf and doing volunteer work in the community. In November 2024, he and Sue moved to Fernandina Beach to be near family. Lew was ever calm, had a dry sense of humor, a genuine smile and an unwavering sense of duty, honor and integrity. He loved his family, the Naval Academy, the Navy and submarines. He is survived by his wife, Susan; daughters, Katherine Hennessy (Mike) and Cynthia Milstead; son, James Lewis; and grandson, Ryan Milstead. Inurnment will take place at the Naval Academy Columbarium at a later date. The Lewis Family H
JOHN WAYNE NELSON ’63
“Wayne” Nelson passed away peacefully at his home in Lodi, CA, on 19 March 2025 from pneumonia related to his Parkinson’s disease. Born in Bellingham, WA, on 6 August 1941, he had three younger siblings: his brother, Darrell, who died in infancy; sister, Jayne; and later, a half-brother, Patrick. The family’s early years were spent living in Ocean City, WA. In his middle and high school years, the family lived in Hoquiam, WA. Wayne graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1959, where he was student body president, the starting football team quarterback, on the basketball and golf teams and gave the graduating senior address. Wayne reported to USNA in July 1959. He got good grades and was active in a variety of intramural sports. He was in the Third Company and then the 12th Company. Following graduation, he spent four years on active duty, serving on Washoe County (LST-1165) and Oklahoma City (CLG-5), both out of Yokosuka, Japan, during the Vietnam War. After his military service, in 1967 he moved to Seattle, WA, and got an MBA from the University of Washington. He then worked in the Forecasting Department at PG&E (Pacific Gas and Electric) and lived in downtown San Francisco, CA. In 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, Jane Wandel, and they lived in Kensington, CA, just north of Berkeley, where Jane was teaching and getting a law degree. Their daughter, Sierra, was born in 1974. In 1977, the family moved to Carson City, NV, where Jane got a law clerk job. There, Wayne opened his own wine and gourmet cookware shop, The Pear Tree, in the Silver City Mall. In April 1982, Wayne was in a horrific car accident, putting him in a coma for close to four months. His recovery was considered questionable by the doctors, but over a long period of time Wayne recovered almost totally, albeit he lost one eye due to the accident. After a divorce, Wayne met his soulmate, Michaelene Miles, and they were together from 1988 to the end of his life. In 2010, they moved MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 129
LAST CALL from Fremont, CA, to Lodi, CA. Wayne loved books (especially used books) and became an active and avid postcard collector. His constant correspondence with family and friends earned him the well-deserved title “Correspondence Man” for all the emails, books, postcards, newspaper clippings and greeting cards he sent out. His ashes are buried in Lake View Cemetery in Seattle, WA. H
RONALD BENIGO ’64
Ronald Benigo passed away at the age of 86 on 8 September 2025. “Ron” was born in Highland Park, MI, on 27 April 1939. He spent his youth in Detroit and went to Pershing High School. A year after graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. The Marine Corps sent him to the Naval Academy Prep School, where he graduated at the top of his class, and he reported to Annapolis in 1960. While he was at USNA, he met Julie Yates on a blind date for the Army-Navy game in 1962. During First Class Year, he was the Color Company Commander of the Seventh Company and Julie was the Color Girl. Upon graduation, Ron reentered the Marine Corps. He and Julie were married in 1965, and he left for Vietnam in 1966. Their first son, Bo, was 9 months old when he returned. For his Vietnam service, Ron received a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for rescuing one of his men and then getting the rest of his men safely on helicopters and away from an ambush. In 1968, he left the Marine Corps and moved to Dallas, TX, where he worked at EDS, which was owned by Ross Perot ’53. While in Dallas, their son, Sam was born. When he retired from EDS in 1996, Ron and Julie retired to Las Vegas, NV, and lived in Sun City Summerlin for 29 years. He taught accounting at the College of Southern Nevada for 12 years and loved living on a golf course. Their son, Sam, and grandsons, Michael and Steven, moved to Las Vegas and Julie and Ron moved into Sam’s home when he had health issues and needed more care. He and Julie lived with Sam and his boys for the last year of his life. They celebrated their 60th anniversary in 2025. Ron was predeceased by his parents, Pio Benigno and Petrinella Kakstis; his brother, Donald Benigo; and his son, Bo Y. Benigo. Ron is succeeded in in death by his wife, Julie; son, Sam; grandsons, Michael and Steven; sister, Beatrice Benigo Ross (Peter); nephew, Warren; and niece, Grace. Interment took place at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, NV, on 24 October 2025. He lived his life as an Officer and a Gentleman. H
MICHAEL AIREY GRIFFIN ’65
Commander Michael Griffin, JAGC, USN (Ret.), 81, passed away on 17 April 2025, near Port Townsend, WA. “Mike” was born in Palo Alto, CA, to CWO4 Charles E. and Marna L. Griffin. As a Navy brat, he attended high school on Midway Island and in Chula Vista, CA, before entering the Naval Academy at 17. Always an independent adventurer, his chosen sport at USNA was sailing, a sport he continued to enjoy for the rest of his life. During First Class Year, Mike was in the 29th Company.
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After graduating, Mike married his wife, Pat in September 1965. He served on Vesuvius (AE-15), Haleakala (AE-25) and Mattaponi (AO-41), and in DaNang, Vietnam. In 1972, Mike entered Hastings Law School as part of an excess leave program before joining the Judge Advocate General Corps. His first law assignment was the Navy Legal Services Office (NLSO), Treasure Island. He later earned a master’s in law at the University of Washington while stationed at NLSO, Seattle. His foreign tours were in Iceland (1978-1980) and South Korea (1983-1985). After retirement, Mike worked for his family and in a friend’s law firm. He took art classes and painted watercolors. He was a commercial salmon fisherman in Alaska for two summers. He earned Maritime certification and trained to be a teacher. He bought a small English catamaran and sailed. Mike and Pat sailed together over 12 summers, but mostly he sailed solo: Seattle to Glacier Bay in Alaska, circumnavigating Vancouver Island five times and down the West Coast from Seattle to San Francisco. He enjoyed photographing the wild places he found along the way. Mike’s boat was the final addition to his English collection. After graduating from the Academy, he was the proud owner of a classic Jaguar. He then owned a 1967 Cooper S and a Triumph motorcycle. Both were still garaged in Port Townsend when he passed away. Other interests included reading naval history, especially about the Battle of Midway and Northwest explorations. One of his favorite quotes is attributed to navigator Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra, “We pressed on, taking fresh trouble for granted.” That he liked this quote so much, remembered as a brave but private journal observation, could say a lot about Mike, too. Mike had Alzheimer’s in his later years, but he talked about sailing until the last. He is survived by his wife, Pat; their children, Sena and Cam; and four grandchildren. H
JAY WOODROW SPRAGUE ’65
Captain Jay W. Sprague, USN (Ret.), of New Bern, NC, passed away on 3 November 2025, at the age of 82. The oldest son of Oliver and Emma Sprague, Jay was born in 1943. Upon his graduation from high school in Overland Park, KS, good fortune struck when he found he had been nominated to the Naval Academy by Congressman Robert Ellsworth. After graduating from USNA with the Class of 1965, he embarked on a three-decade career in aviation and program management. He qualified in the E-2A, E-B and E-2C versions of the Hawkeye aircraft; he commanded Airborne Command and Control Squadron 121 (VAW-121) and E-2/C-2 Airborne Command and Control Systems Program Office 231 (PMA-231), which was his major command; and served as one of the pioneers of new areas of warfare, Unmanned Aerial and Remotely Piloted Vehicles, as the program manager of the Condor program. His final tour was as the Navy’s Space Representative to a multi-agency organization/command. Following his retirement from active duty, Jay introduced the internet to the residents of Guam with the company, Kuentos (which translated as “talk”). He also served on the board of directors of Guam Savings and Loan. When the Guam airport was returned to the citizens of Guam after a BRAC decision, he took over the airport’s new construction and finalization of the new Guam International Airport and conducted its grand opening. He then decided to continue his education in an area he loved and achieved a Bachelor of Arts in Metal Design from East Carolina University and pursued projects in this area.
LAST CALL Jay is survived by his wife, Dr. Mary Humphreys-Sprague, CAPT, USN (Ret.), who he referred to as the “captain-in-charge” and claimed that she had “saved his life on multiple occasions.” He is also survived by his children (and their spouses), Jeffery Sprague (Susanne), Amy Sprague-Colaco (Phillip), Ann Withington (Jason) and Rebecca Wienke (Mike); an additional daughter, Mary Meeks; brothers, Charles Sprague and Scott Bowen (Karen); his loving sister, Karen Askew (Tom); and sister-in-law, Peggy Sprague; as well as numerous grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, Oliver and Emma Sprague; and his brother, Perry Sprague. Interment will take place at the Naval Academy at a later date. JWS ’65 H
JOHN WILKINSON ’65
John Wilkinson of Granby, CT, entered eternal rest on 13 December 2025. John was born in Woodmere, NY, on 30 August 1943 to Evelyn (Furey) and Edward Wilkinson. He graduated from George W. Hewlett High School in Hewlett Bay, NY, and from the U.S Naval Academy, where he was in the First Company during First Class Year. After graduation from USNA in 1965 and additional training, he served in the nuclear submarine John Marshall (SSBN-611). On leaving the Navy, he joined Connecticut General Life Insurance, which later became CIGNA. There, he enjoyed a long, successful career retiring as chief financial officer. Two of his civic commitments were as a Little League coach and treasurer and president of the Granby Community Fund. John is survived by his wife, Marcia (Bailey) Wilkinson; son, Craig Wilkinson (Michelle); five grandchildren; and his sister, Mary Wilkinson. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his brothers, Jim and Rick Wilkinson; and his grandson, Connor Wilkinson. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Mary’s Church of Simsbury, CT, on 22 December 2025 and John was laid to rest in Granby Cemetery in Granby, CT. Memorial donations in John’s name may be made to House of Bread, 27 Chestnut St., Hartford, CT 06120 (www.hobread.org) or St. Mary’s Church, P.O. Box 575, Simsbury, CT 06070 (www.stmarysimsbury.org). The Wilkinson Family H
GERALD JOHN CORCORAN ’67
Captain Gerald J. Corcoran, USN (Ret.), lost his long battle with pulmonary fibrosis, passing peacefully on the morning of 17 December 2025. “Corky” was born on 2 March 1946 in Norwood, MA, and grew up in Whittier, CA, graduating from La Serna High School in 1963. He received a congressional appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, reporting to Annapolis in June 1963. He graduated With Distinction in the Class of 1967 and married his high school sweetheart, Karen, shortly after. He chose Admiral Rickover’s Nuclear Submarine Program for his service selection. After the 18-month Nuclear Submarine Training
Program, he progressed from division officer to XO in a succession of boat assignments: Haddock (SSN-621), Drum (SSN-677), Snook (SSN-592), Francis Scott Key (SSBN-657), XO on Haddo (SSN-604) and finally, command of John C. Calhoun (SSBN-630), where he won the Battle “E” and was named “Outstanding FBM in the Atlantic Fleet.” His shore tour started with being Deputy Commander, ComSubRon 14 in Holy Loch, Scotland. Subsequently, he was assigned as senior member of the Nuclear Propulsion Examining Board, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. In 1990, he took command of Submarine Development Group One in San Diego. In 1994, he began a tour as Commander, U.S. Naval Activities, United Kingdom, during which time he received the Ambassador’s Award for Outstanding Community Service. During his distinguished career, Corky was awarded the Legion of Merit (4), the Meritorious Service Medal (2) and a Battle “E” Ribbon (3 Stars). He concluded his naval service with retirement in 1998. After retirement, he spent the next 22 years in private consulting for several DOE/NNSA contractors. Corky is survived by his wife of 57 years, Karen; their sons, Scott (and his wife, Kimberly) and Kevin; four grandchildren, Christopher, Bryan, Karen and Katie; his sister, Beverly Marksbury; and aunt, Susan Bamond. Interment will take place at Beaufort National Cemetery in South Carolina. The Corcoran Family H
FRANCIS ANTHONY DEL BALZO JR. ’67
On Saturday, 27 December 2025, Francis Anthony Del Balzo passed away at his home in Riva, MD, where he had resided for almost 40 years. “Tony” was born in Tyler, TX, on 1 April 1945 and grew up in Silver Spring, MD. The oldest son of Francis Sr. and Mary Jane Del Balzo, Tony was a proud graduate of the United States Naval Academy Class of 1967 (1st Company). While in the Navy, he served in Vietnam and on several ships in the South Pacific. In country, Tony served as a psychological warfare advisor and psychological operations officer, where he employed techniques such as leaflet distribution and loudspeaker operations by river patrol boats. Later, while serving on Harold E. Holt, he was an integral part of the successful Mayaguez Incident in May of 1975. Though he resigned from the Navy highly decorated, he was always quick to demure and said that his service paled in comparison to the sacrifice of those who served by his side. Tony graduated from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business and went on to own a longstanding land development firm with his best friend from grade school. Tony was a lifetime member of the USNA Alumni Association and loved Navy sports. He was also an avid Washington Capitals fan. Tony met the love of his life, Thèa, in Fort Worth, TX, in 1980. They were married in 1981, and their daughter was born two years later. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Thèa; their daughter, Katie Coble; wonderful son-in-law, Dann Coble; and the granddaughter who brought him so much joy, Autumn. He is also survived by three brothers (and sisters-in-law), Mike Del Balzo ’71 (Bonnie), Vince Del Balzo (Maureen Kennedy) and Joe Del Balzo (Maxine). He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Mary Jane Del Balzo. H
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 131
LAST CALL ARTHUR JOHN MEINHOLD ’67
We are saddened to announce the passing of Captain Arthur J. Meinhold, USN (Ret.), on 4 November 2025. Growing up in Freeport, NY, “Skip” dreamed of following in the footsteps of the great fighter pilots of the past. After high school, he set off with that dream in mind, attending the United States Naval Academy, graduating in 1967 and earning his Wings as a naval aviator in 1968. Skip served his country for 25 years with a career that included graduating from the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School (TopGun), two combat cruises to Vietnam aboard Kitty Hawk as a member of VF-213 (Black Lions) and being recalled from the Naval Reserve in 1990-1991 to serve in Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War. He retired from the Reserves in 1992, having achieved the rank of captain. After transferring to the Reserves in 1974, Skip continued to pursue his love of flying by working for leading aerospace companies over the years, initially as a pilot and instructor then as an international defense consultant. His career took him around the world from South America to the Middle East and beyond. For those who knew and loved him, he will be remembered as gruff, but kind. He was quick to laugh and possessed a rapier wit that could be both hilarious and biting. He definitely got his point across. But most importantly, he was a loving husband, father and G-Pa, who provided incredible support and advice to us across the years. He will be dearly missed by his wife of 58 years, Dorothy; their sons, Matthew (and his wife Bridgette) and Mason ’96; grandson, Maxwell; and by all who knew him over the years. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the following organizations: Canines With a Cause (https://www.canineswithacause.org/veterans); the Utah Avalanche Center (https://utahavalanchecenter.org) or the Naval Academy Foundation (www.usna.com/give). You are free to soar again! The Meinhold Family H
ORRIN LEIGH GROVER III ’70
Orrin L. Grover III, better known to classmates as “Butch,” of Woodburn, OR, passed away on 15 August 2025 of respiratory failure associated with a stroke which occurred years before. Born at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL, to Brigadier General Orrin L. Grover, USAF (Ret.), (USMA ’27), and Lin Colby Grover, Butch grew up in many places, including Saudi Arabia. Despite this, he always claimed Alabama as home and that at heart he was just a country boy. Not surprisingly, his favorite band was Alabama! While at the Naval Academy, Butch majored in Foreign Affairs, but his love of knowledge knew no bounds. He was active with the Masqueraders and the sailing squadron. Among the many things he did in his spare time and while on leave was to sell encyclopedias door-to door. Upon graduation, Butch was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps. After The Basic School at Quantico, VA, he earned a law degree from Golden Gate University in San Francisco, CA, and served in the Judge Advocate Division. After leaving the Marines, Butch practiced law for more than 40 years in California and Oregon. During his law career, he often found himself taking on governmental policies that he felt limited individual freedom and rights. Many of the cases he took on were pro bono, 132 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
consistent with his personal belief in doing whatever he could to help others. His interests included sailing, writing and long-term involvement with the Willamette Ballet, where his daughter had studied. Butch was also a master storyteller, and his children and others still remember the excitement and joy this brought them and so many others. In 2015, Butch suffered a major stroke which left him with a severe speech impediment and limited mobility. As a result, he spent the last ten years of his life in care facilities, but he never lost his sense of humor and intellectual curiosity. He was a friend to everyone. Butch’s wife, Angela Joy Grover, predeceased him in 2016. He is survived by their daughter, Meganne Colby Mortensen of John Day, OR; son, Justin Leigh Grover of Massillon, OH; and three grandchildren, Caitlyn, Jacob and Simon. Paul Fowler ’70 & The Grover Family H
RALPH THOMAS GUTIERREZ ’70
Captain “Tom” Gutierrez, USNR (Ret.), passed away peacefully at his home in Albuquerque, NM, on 5 December 2025. Born on 30 August 1947 in Las Cruces, NM, to Ralph Gutierrez and Jean (Breakiron), Tom was a 1961 graduate of Holy Cross Catholic School. At Las Cruces High School, he distinguished himself as a student and an athlete. He was an Eagle Scout, the 137-pound state wrestling champion and the recipient of the 1965 Whitfield Leadership Award. After earning a walk-on wrestling scholarship at the University of New Mexico, he entered the Naval Academy. Upon graduating from Annapolis in 1970, Tom was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps. He completed The Basic School in Quantico, VA, followed by flight school in Pensacola, FL, and advanced training in radar intercept and F-4J engine maintenance at Cherry Point, NC. In 1972, he reported to MCAS Kaneohe, HI, where he served with VMFA-212, MAG-24, flying for three years. While stationed in Hawaii, Tom earned a master’s degree in systems management from the University of Southern California. Following his active-duty service, Tom worked as a natural gas engineer for the City of Las Cruces for eight years before transitioning to the Gas Company of New Mexico. In 1988, he joined the Department of Energy, beginning a distinguished federal career spanning more than 40 years before retiring in 2020. During this time, he transferred to the Naval Reserves as a Civil Engineer Corps officer, embodying the Seabees motto, “Can Do,” and serving as executive officer of Reserve Naval Construction Battalion 22. Deeply committed to developing future leaders, Tom served as a Blue & Gold officer for over 25 years, interviewing and mentoring high school seniors seeking admission to the Naval Academy. After marrying Rebecca in 2008, the couple worked together in this role. Tom was loved and respected by all who knew him and will be remembered for his warmth, generosity and enduring smile. Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Rebecca D. Vigil (former New Mexico Secretary of State); his son, Commander Patrick T. Gutierrez ’07, USN (Danielle); grandchildren, Roy, Zoe, Mia and Kai; stepchildren, Andy Giron (Maria), Sarah Schwarz (Greg) and Jennifer Kessler; and step-grandchildren, Virginia, Erick and Eloy. Services were held on 30 January 2026 at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church in Albuquerque, NM, followed by burial at Santa Fe National Cemetery. H
LAST CALL WALTER FRANCIS MARTIN JR. ’70
Walter Martin passed away on 7 January 2026 of Lewy Body dementia. He was 78 years old. Born on 14 September 1947 in Somers Point, NJ, “Wally” was the son of Commander Walter Martin ’44 and Josephine (Currie). His early life was shaped by the adventures of growing up in a military family, moving 17 times across the United States. A proud graduate of Wayzata High School in Minnesota, he served as student council president, was a member of the National Honor Society and was honored to speak at the American Legion Wayzata Memorial Day Service. A dedicated Boy Scout, Wally achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in 1963 and spent summers as a camp counselor at Camp Many Point in Minnesota, where he inspired young campers. Upon graduation from the Naval Academy in 1970, Wally attended the Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, GA, where he met his beloved wife of 54 years, Sharon Maier. Wally served in the Vietnam War in 1971 as part of the Vietnamization program. He was instrumental in setting up a naval logistics system for river patrol boats in Vinh Long, earning a Navy Commendation Medal and a Combat Action Ribbon. Upon returning Stateside, he attended the Navy Resale School in Brooklyn, NY, and then became an assistant Navy Exchange officer in Newport, RI. His last tour of duty was as the Navy Exchange officer at NAS Atlanta. Wally earned his MBA in Marketing/Finance from Georgia State University. Wally’s professional journey started as a stockbroker at Paine Webber and evolved through various roles in sales and marketing at Lever Brothers, Mobil Chemical and Kimberly Clark, and later, consulting for Coopers & Lybrand. He founded his own firm, Strategic Management Services Group, in 1992 and found freedom in being his own boss for the next 30 years. He also shared his knowledge by teaching strategic planning at Georgia State University’s Evening MBA program. Wally was a devoted family man. An avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, Wally loved skiing, hiking, fishing and jogging. Wally is survived by his loving wife, Sharon; their daughters (and spouses), Katie (Todd) and Cindy (Aaron); five cherished grandchildren, Zoey, Henry, Ryan, Abby and Beth; and his sister, Caroyln. He was predeceased by his parents, and his sister, MaryJo. The Martin Family H
GEORGE LARS MOE ’70
Captain George L. Moe, USN (Ret.), passed away on 16 November 2025 in Poway, CA. He was 77 years old. George was born in West Orange, NJ, on 14 January 1948 to Ingvald and Dorothy Moe. He graduated from West Orange Mountain High School and was a 1970 alumnus of the U.S. Naval Academy. Upon graduation, George entered flight school and received his Wings of Gold as a naval aviator in 1972. George served in the Navy for 25 years, with tours of duty in four fighter squadrons, one training squadron, two staffs and two ships. He began his flying career with VF-194, flying F-8 Crusaders from Oriskany. Ashore, George served as operations officer of VT-10 and CSO for Training Airwing 4 in Pensacola. Transitioning to the F-14 Tomcat, he flew with VF-111 in the Western Pacific and Indian oceans. As XO and CO of the VF-1 Wolfpack, his squadron was awarded the Clifton Trophy (best fighter squadron in the Navy) and Battle E (best fighter squadron in the Pacific). George later served as operations officer on Midway
during the Persian Gulf War. He completed his flying service as CO of VF-124, responsible for training all Pacific Fleet F-14 aircrews. His decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and Navy Achievement Medal. After retiring from active duty in 1995, George worked for Jaycor, Inc. as a division vice president and general manager. He was a co-founder (October 2004) and Vice President of Operations for WBB Services, a business group within Whitney, Bradley & Brown, Inc. Retired again, George volunteered at Father Joe’s Villages (St. Vincent de Paul Village) teaching resume and interview skills. Besides his volunteering, he enjoyed family, traveling and his wine cellar. As one of George’s First Companymates stated, “In life’s journey, we meet people of all calibers and George was one of the highest!” Predeceased by his parents, George is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dolores “Dory;” their daughter, Katherine Moe; and his sisters, Patricia Moe and Margaret (Moe) Kuell. George was interred at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in San Diego, CA, on 14 January 2026 with full military honors. He was laid to rest in the St. Junipero Serra section within the cemetery. The Moe Family H
JOHN HOWARD REYNOLDS ’70
Lieutenant Colonel John H. Reynolds, USMC (Ret.), went to his heavenly reward on 25 November 2025. He was 77 years old. John was born on 16 April 1948 in Twiggs County, GA, to James A. Reynolds and Ruth Martin Reynolds. He was a graduate of HV Jenkins High School in Savannah, GA. Upon graduation with the Naval Academy Class of 1970, he was commissioned into the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served honorably for 23 years. During his career, John served with 1st Battalion, 9th Marines; as guard officer at Marine Barracks Panama Canal Zone; shore party battalion of the First Marine Division, Camp Pendleton; Manpower Division at Headquarters Marine Corps, Washington, DC; and as executive officer of the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines in Camp Lejeune, NC. John attended the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, graduating with a master’s degree in operations research systems analysis in 1979. He also attended the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, as well as the Armed Forces Staff College. John was commanding officer of the 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC. Upon completion of his time there, he returned to Panama to serve the U.S. Southern Command as Deputy Director for Counterdrug Operations. He retired from active service in 1993 and took a position with the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA), working with the U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory in Quantico, VA, as well as projects in Kuwait, Qatar and the Al Anbar Province of Iraq. He retired from CNA in 2019. John was a much-beloved husband to his wife of 55 years, Patricia; a wonderful father to his daughter, Emily Anne Reynolds; and an outstanding grandfather to his grandsons, Sergeant Caleb Reynolds-Snell, USMC, and Jonathan Hendrickson. He will be missed by many friends and family. Services were held on 4 December 2025 at the Semper Fidelis Memorial Chapel in Triangle, VA, followed by interment at Quantico National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject. org) or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (www. michaeljfox.org). The Reynolds Family H MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 133
LAST CALL BRUCE GENE TOWNE ’71
Bruce G. Towne, 76, of Colchester, VT, passed away on 11 December 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was a devoted husband and father who lived his life according to the Golden Rule. He was a pillar of strength, generosity and love for his family. Born on 17 October 1949, Bruce was the son of Eugene and Arlene Towne. A native of Milton, VT, Bruce joined the Naval Academy Class of 1971 as a Plebe in the First Company, graduating as a member of the 19th Company. While at Annapolis, academics came easily to Bruce, and many semesters he wore “stars” on his uniform that recognized his academic excellence. Athletically, Bruce excelled as a soccer goalie, first playing on the undefeated Plebe soccer team, and later, as the ever-enthusiastic goalie of his Company soccer team. Classmates remember Bruce’s quick, dry sense of humor, his willingness to support less academicallyinclined Companymates and his infectious energy. Bruce elected to go into nuclear submarines. He underwent the typical grueling interview by Admiral Rickover and was selected for the Nuclear Power program, achieving the distinction of being the first Foreign Affairs major ever selected for that program! Following graduation in 1971, Bruce attended Nuclear Power School, followed by the Naval Nuclear Prototype Training Unit, where he finished at the top of his class. Upon completion of his training, Bruce served proudly onboard John Adams (SSBN-620), where he made three Polaris patrols, followed by an assignment at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. After leaving the Navy in June 1977 as a lieutenant, Bruce attended Champlain College and began his career as a Certified Public Accountant. For many years, Bruce devoted his time and talent to his role as a board member of the North Country Federal Credit Union, which provided vital financial services to the community. He greatly enjoyed going out to breakfast with his many cousins and friends. He loved to play cards and Mahjong, and the Army-Navy Game was a “must-see.” He was an avid reader and a deep thinker with a sharp wit. Family was extremely important to Bruce. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Kathleen; sister, Pamela (Steve); children, Carrie (Brant), Liza, Mac and Schuyler (Amy); and grandchildren, Eric, Nathan, Alyssa, Andi, Moses, Violet, Juniper, Tim and Josh. He was predeceased by his sister, Patricia. In spite of his long illness, he considered himself a very lucky man. H
WALTER WILLIAM MANNING II ’72
Commander Walter, W. Manning II, USN (Ret.), of Pinellas County, passed away on 3 June 2025 in Saint Petersburg, FL. Born in Clearwater, FL, he was the son of Walter W. Manning and Evelyn J. (Wittman). He attended Clearwater High School and graduated in 1968. He secured a nomination and acceptance to the Naval Academy, where he was member of the football team. He graduated and was commissioned as an ensign with the Class of 1972. He served with distinction as a naval aviator, flying P-3s. His service included time in Vietnam, Europe, Southeast Asia and the National Capitol Region with assignments on the Joint Staff and the Federal Aviation Administration.
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His awards include the Defense Meritorious Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Medal (1 Star), Vietnamese Campaign Medal (1 Star), Sea Service Ribbon (3 Stars) and the Vietnamese Service Medal. He was a graduate of the Air War College and held a master’s degree in aerospace engineering. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His military career was one of courage, precision and commitment qualities he carried with him into his work as an engineer after retirement. He was a man of prayer, grounded in the words of the Bible, even as he faced the challenges of post-traumatic stress later in life. He was the dad we loved but never got the chance to really know. We honor him for his service, faith and for the good that lived in him. Predeceased by his parents, Walter and Evelyn, Walter is survived by his daughters, Wendy Basla (Adam) and Elizabeth Manning-Cicorella; stepson, Doug Whittington; his older sister, Linda Manning; five grandchildren, Christian Basla, Michael Basla, Sophia Basla, Giosue ManningCicorella and Victoria ManningCicorella; and his nephew, Travis Manning. A graveside service and burial took place at Arlington National Cemetery on 5 January 2026. May he find the peace in death that eluded him in life. The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 Fair winds and following seas, Dad. You are remembered and released. The Manning Family H
GREGORY JOSEPH ROSE ’73
Commander Gregory J. Rose, USN (Ret.), passed away on 16 December 2025. After graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1973, “Greg” continued his education at the California Institute of Technology, where he earned a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering in 1974 while studying on a Guggenheim Scholarship. He went on to serve as a distinguished naval aviator, flying the F-4 Phantom II and F-14 Tomcat with VF-33, the Tarsiers. Greg was a graduate of both the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School (TopGun) and the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, from which he graduated in 1980. Following his military service, Greg spent a brief time as a test pilot with Northrop Grumman before beginning a second career as a pilot with Delta Air Lines. Beyond his professional achievements, Greg was a devoted husband and a loving, proud father. He cared deeply about the communities in which he lived and generously gave his time and talents to improve them. He was passionate about his work with Habitat for Humanity, where he devoted many hours to building and improving homes for others. A passionate golfer, Greg spent many years enjoying and refining his game. Greg is survived by his wife, Patricia; his son and daughter-in-law, Commander Scott Rose ’03, USN, and Commander Kallie Rose, USN; grandchildren, Liam and Beth; and his brother, Gary. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. The Rose Family H
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LAST CALL BRUCE HARRY MORRIS ’75
Bruce H. Morris passed away on 31 December 2025 at the age of 72. Bruce was born to George and Alice Morris on 27 July 1953 in Tomball, TX. Upon graduating from Tomball High School in 1971, he was accepted to the Naval Academy. At Annapolis, he was known as a good guy with a sardonic sense of humor who loved Dr. Pepper. After graduation from USNA with the Class of 1975, Bruce served on various ships, including Truckee, until leaving the service as a lieutenant in 1980. His decorations include the Joint Service Commendation Medal and Meritorious Unit Commendation. In 1980, he also met Charlotte Heidner on a blind date set up by his brother, Brock. Bruce and Charlotte wed on 28 June 1980. He joyfully became a father in 1981 with Brett, and again in 1984 with Jill; and he became a proud grandfather to Gwendolyn in 2007. After 43 years of marriage, Charlotte predeceased him in 2023. Bruce began his career at LTV, which later became Loral Vought Systems and finally integrated into Lockheed Martin. He specialized in nuclear and electromagnetic effects. Bruce worked on many programs through the years, including but not limited to, the B2 Bomber, PAC-3 and THAAD, as well as the presidential helicopter. Bruce retired in 2013 as a senior fellow of Lockheed Martin. Bruce is survived by his children, Brett and Jill, and granddaughter, Gwen. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Charlotte, and two brothers, Brock and Rusty. Services were held in Grapevine, TX, on 8 January 2026, followed by burial at Bear Creek Cemetery in Euless, TX. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to your favorite animal charity in his name. Anyone who knew Bruce knew how much he loved cats. The Morris Family H
DALE GLENN MEYER ’76
Dale G. Meyer, 72, of Rockbridge County, VA, died on 11 December 2025, entering into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He had courageously fought against Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Dale was born on 2 May 1953 to the late Glenn W. Meyer and Bernadette (Burton). Shortly after Dale’s birth, the family moved from Illinois to Hot Springs National Park, AR, where he graduated from high school in 1971. As a freshman at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, he received an appointment to USNA, and he entered the Brigade of Midshipmen with the Class of 1976. Dale received his degree in Electrical Engineering and was the recipient of the prestigious Steinmetz Award for his senior design project. Following graduation, Dale married Carol Ann Rhodes at the Naval Academy Chapel on 5 June 1976. After completing Surface Warfare Officer School in Newport, RI, his Navy career included serving as CIC/OE division officer aboard Biddle (CG-34). His shore duty included time as a Naval Systems Weapons instructor at Dam Neck, VA. He later served in the Naval Reserve. Dale began his civilian career as an instrumental member of the start-up team at the Bath County Pumped Storage Project. His career continued to focus on energy projects and power production facilities in Virginia and North Carolina, as operations manager with Dominion Resources, Mead-Westvaco and BARC. He retired from BARC in July 2015.
Dale’s hobbies challenged his technical abilities and his desire to be true to the creative skills and talents of historic craftsmen. Foremost was his interest in restoring antique Black Forest clocks and other mechanical antiques. Dale also loved spending time with his beloved family. Some of his favorite memories included time at their Lake Gaston, NC, home, a special fishing trip with his sons to Arkansas’s Buffalo River (which he took part in lobbying to protect as a free-flowing national river, while still in his teenage years) and enjoying the beauty of the woods and mountains of his Virginia home. His love of the Word of God and Bible study were priorities in his life. Surviving are his wife, Carol; their children, Ross Meyer, Scott Meyer and Laura Mitchell; eight grandchildren; and his sister, Jane Wohlford. A funeral service was conducted on 17 December 2025. Members of the Class of 1976’s Second Company honored Dale’s memory with their presence. Burial was at Mt. Carmel Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Steeles Tavern, VA. H
STANLEY GERON GRAY ’77
Captain Stanley G. Gray, USMC (Ret.), passed away on 1 December 2025 in Tampa, FL. “Stan” grew up in a military family as the son of Command Sergeant Major Isaiah N. Gray, USA (Ret.), and Daisy (Lee). He received a nomination from Senator Barry Goldwater to attend the Naval Academy, where he graduated with the Class of 1977. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps, he attended The Basic School in Quantico, VA, followed by specialized training for roles in Artillery, Infantry and Reconnaissance units. He continued his professional education at the Marine Corps Command and Staff College. Stan commanded at the company level, leading the Reconnaissance/ Raider Company, 3rd Marine Division, in Okinawa, Japan and later serving as a company commander at the historic Marine Barracks 8th & I, in Washington, DC. His operational tour included a real-world deployment into high-threat environments. His distinguished performance led to an invitation to try out for Delta Force, a unique special operations unit, which he respectfully declined. After an 11-year career, he was medically separated due to service-related injuries. His decorations and medals include the Purple Heart, Joint Service Commendation Medal (V), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and Humanitarian Service Medal with one Star. He left a significant legacy in the Marine Corps with the distinction of being the first African American to command a Reconnaissance/ Raider Company and the first African American to graduate from the Marine Corps Amphibious Reconnaissance School. In the civilian sector, he worked for several Fortune 100 companies, established his own HR consulting firm and founded a commercial real estate investment firm in Tampa Bay. He was a founding member of the Naval Academy Minority Association and revived the Urban League of Hillsborough County, where he served as president and CEO. His numerous awards and honors include a Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph Biden. In the spirit of Stan’s lifelong commitment to service, please direct memorial donations to The Skills Center (https://theskillscenter.org) in Tampa, FL. Stan is survived by his wife, Dr. Sharon Andrews Gray; daughter, Dr. Anthea Alexis Gray (Joshua Heath Clark); son, Stanley G. Gray II ’08; and his beloved dogs, Sasha, Clementine and Wilbur. May every “red sky at night” serve as an enduring testament to Stanley Gray’s unwavering service to his country, his family and his mentees. H MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 135
LAST CALL STEVEN LEE RICHTER ’81
Captain Steven L. Richter, USN (Ret.), a devoted husband, father, grandfather and naval officer, passed away on 11 July 2025 in Bowling Green, KY. Born on 19 December 1958 in Lincoln, NE, “Steve” was a proud graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1981. He served our nation with distinction for 24 years as a Surface Warfare Officer. During his naval career, he served aboard multiple ships and concluded his time at sea as commanding officer of Cimarron (AO-177) and later, Reuben James (FFG-57) in Pearl Harbor, HI. His final five years of active duty were spent at the Pentagon, where he contributed to the mission of the Department of Defense. After retiring from active service, Steve continued supporting national security as a senior analyst with Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. In retirement, Steve embraced a quieter but equally meaningful life, dedicating himself to farming and raising livestock in Kentucky. He found deep peace in caring for animals and working the land, reflecting his lifelong appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Throughout his professional and personal life, Steve was known for his steady leadership, humility and selfless mentorship, leaving a lasting impact on those he guided. Above all, Steve was a family man. He was married for 44 years to his beloved wife, Leslie, and together they built a life rooted in love, service and adventure. He was a devoted father to his sons, Phil and Brian, sharing with them his passion for hiking, camping and exploring the country. Steve was also a proud grandfather to Jaxon and Olivia, who brought him immense joy. Steve is survived by his wife, Leslie; their sons, Phil (and his wife, Lorena) and Brian (and his fiancée, Linda Zhang); grandchildren, Jaxon and Olivia; his mother, Janice Richter; and his siblings, Dru Anne Marshall, Brenda Wilson and Chuck Richter. He was preceded in death by his father, Buddy L. Richter. Steve’s legacy of service, integrity and quiet strength lives on in the many lives he touched. Fair winds and following seas, Shipmate. H
JOHN MICHAEL SCANLAN ’83
Lieutenant Colonel John M. Scanlan, USMC (Ret.), of Hilton Head Island, SC, passed away on 12 October 2025 due to complications from diabetes, compounded by a car accident. He was 66 years old. John was born on 8 August 1959 and grew up in Stoutsville, OH. He attended The Ohio State University and the Naval Academy Prep School (one year each) before entering the Naval Academy. While studying mechanical engineering, John captured Annapolis memories in numerous photos and journal entries and played “hooker” on the Navy B-side rugby team. Upon graduation, he was commissioned in the Marine Corps as an aviator. He served 20 years on active duty as a Radar Intercept Officer in the F-4S Phantom II and a weapons sensor operator in the F/A-18D Hornet, including a decorated career as a weapons tactics instructor. Deployments took him around the world, including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Deny Flight during the Balkan War. His commendations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal and a NATO Medal, among others. A devout Catholic and man of great faith, he attended St. Francis by the Sea in Hilton Head and was an active member of the Knights of 136 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
Columbus, serving as Grand Knight for Council 10668 (2011-2012). He drove across the country on U.S. Route 50 from Annapolis to Sacramento, CA, to commemorate his 50th birthday. John loved the outdoors, taking annual hiking and cycling trips to various parks throughout the country. Closer to home, he could be found in his kayak, often as an active volunteer with the Dolphin Project. He attributed his love of the outdoors to idyllic setting of his youth. His childhood and life as a Marine served as the muse for John’s foray into writing. He authored three books, Speed Is Life, More Is Better (2004), Dink-Gadink (2005) and Logan’s Hill: The Blood Brothers of the Night (2008) along with stories published in Chicken Soup for the Soul and Good Old Days magazine. John had a gentle humility and an infectious laugh that paired well with his engaging personality. A beloved brother, uncle and loyal friend, John is survived by his siblings, Jerry, Joseph, Jeffrey, Kathleen, Michael, Greg and Steve; along with his adored nephew and nieces. A Funeral Mass was held in Hilton Head on 17 October 2025. Interment took place at Arlington National Cemetery on 23 March 2026. H
MICHAEL JOSEPH D’AMBRA ’87
Michael J. D’Ambra passed away on 12 December 2025 in St. Petersburg, FL, after a courageous 9-month battle with brain cancer. He was 63 years old. Michael was born in Fort Belvoir, VA, on 21 March 1962 to Rudolph Francis D’Ambra ’49 and Matilda Lucy Simpson. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1982 and was selected for Nuclear Power School. He quickly established himself as a leader among his peers and was recommended for the Naval Academy, which he entered in 1983. His interest in Annapolis came as no surprise, as his father and three of his brothers also entered the military through the same path. Michael graduated in 1987 from the 29th Company with a degree in Marine Engineering and returned to the Nuclear Navy. He served aboard John Marshall (SSN-611) from April 1989 to April 1992, where he was responsible for multiple divisions within the Engineering Department and was part of the boat’s decommissioning crew. After his sea tour he transferred to ComSubLant in Norfolk, VA, as a staff plans officer. His active duty honors include the Navy Commendation Medal. Michael separated from the Navy in 1994, however he continued to work with the Navy as part of the Navy Engineering Logistics Office Detachment (NELODET), where he managed program support requirements and guided the Engineering Division. Michael served this position with distinction for 29 years. On his departure in 2023, he was honored with the Department of the Navy Superior Civilian Service Award, the second highest honor a civilian can receive from the Department of the Navy. Michael met the love of his life, Diane Lynn Yingling, while at the Academy. They were married shortly after graduation in August 1987, sharing 38 years together. Michael was a devoted husband and father. He had a joyful soul that always impacted others in a positive way. While he loved to travel, he especially valued time with family and friends. Michael was predeceased by his father, Rudolph. He is survived by his wife Diane; their children, Christopher and Nicole; his mother, Lucy; sisters Christine, Mary and Joanne; and brothers, David ’80, Stephen, Charles ’87 and Mark ’92. A memorial service took place at the Naval Academy Chapel and inurnment will take place at the Naval Academy Columbarium at a future date. Memorial donations may be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation, P.O. Box 62066, Durham, NC 27715; (https://www.glioblastoma foundation.org). The D’Ambra Family H
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 137
CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE • EAST
REAL ESTATE • EAST
REAL ESTATE • WEST
Moving to COLORADO?
CAROL (BERRY) VASINA ‘87 Broker/Owner (720) 840-5499 CoPremierRealty@gmail.com
CoPremierRealty.com “20 years of exceptional Denver and Colorado Springs area real estate expertise, specializing in active duty and veteran transactions”
SHOP. CONNECT. ENJOY! Shop through our Amazon Partnership portal. usna.com/amazon 138 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE • WEST
REAL ESTATE • SOUTH EAST
REAL ESTATE • ANNAPOLIS
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 139
CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE •ANNAPOLIS
REAL ESTATE • ANNAPOLIS
REAL ESTATE • ANNAPOLIS
CHARLOTTE CHURCH
(Wife of Dave ’67 Mom of Kimberly ’91 and Grandma of Abbey ’25)
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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
SERVICES
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CLASSIFIEDS MISCELLANY
MISCELLANY
MISCELLANY
Drawing upon decades of professional and personal reflection - an excellent primer to accelerate a military or business career.
A memoir by Michael Rubel ’63
John Cordle ’84
https://stonetowerpress.com/shop-2/ authors/john-cordle/letters-to-myself/
Available on Amazon books.
SERVICES
SERVICES
SERVICES
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 141
CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES
SERVICES
SERVICES
JPC Diversified, Inc Diamond Importer and Wholesaler www.diamondsbyjpc.com pcolli1@msn.com
(800)462-1086 Pam Colli, wife of James E. Colli President & CEO USNA ’74 This program is not affiliated with the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association.
2026 NAVY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
Follow Navy Football at: navysports.com
Saturday 5 SEPT vs Towson University Saturday 12 SEPT @ Florida Atlantic Univ. Friday 25 SEPT @UAB Saturday 3 OCT @ Air Force Saturday 10 OCT vs University of Tulsa Saturday 17 OCT @ UTSA Saturday 24 OCT vs Univ. of North Texas Homecoming Saturday 31 OCT vs Notre Dame Foxborough, MA Saturday 7 NOV vs Temple University Saturday 21 NOV vs Univ. of Memphis Saturday 28 NOV @ Charlotte Saturday 5 DEC AAC Championship At the #1 Seed Location Saturday 12 DEC vs Army East Rutherford, NJ 1-800-US4-NAVY
USNA Tribute Gifts
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142 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
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2026 SHIPMATE Classified Information & Insertion Order
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Classified ads are accepted on a space available basis as a service to USNA Alumni only. The Alum’s name and class year MUST appear in the ad. Spouse ads are accepted only with the Alum’s name and class year included in the ad. Ads are accepted camera-ready and electronically; jpg., tif. or PDF formats. (300 dpi) Any classified ad may occupy one column width (2.5 inches) by a maximum of up to 8 inches of column length.
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07/22/26
Attn: Maria O’Shea 301 King George Street Annapolis, MD 21402
Class Year___________________________________
q Nov-Dec 2026
09/16/26
Call me with your questions: 410-295-4074
Please contact Maria O’Shea via email or phone for space availability — even if the due date has passed, I will try to be as flexible as possible.
MARCH-APRIL 2026 • SHIPMATE 143
EXECUTIVE OFFICE VOLUME 89 • NO. 2
Jeff Webb’95 President/CEO Kara Fagley Chief of Staff
ENGAGEMENT TJ Grady ’96 410-295-4041 Executive Vice President, Engagement Editor and Communications Jimmy DeButts; jimmy.debutts@usna.com Nancy Murray 410-295-4049 Editorial Executive Dir., Alumni Engagement and Outreach Assistant Editor Isaac Phillips ’19 410-295-4036 Anne Sharpe; anne.sharpe@usna.com Director, Online Engagement and SIGs Design and Production Wendy Owen 410-295-4017 Director, Alumni Class Programs Art Director/Production Manager Jackie Furton; jackie.furton@usna.com Tony Spinler 410-295-4058 Assistant Production Manager/Classes Editor Director, Alumni Support Services Maria O’Shea; maria.oshea@usna.com Naomi Storey 410-295-4055 Alumni Reunion Manager Chapter, SIGs and Classes Editor Lori Coogan 410-295-4038 Sandra Stansbury-Spadaro Director, Parent Programs sandy.spadaro@usna.com Carrie Carroll 410-295-4062 Obituaries Editor Membership Coordinator Timothy Elizabeth Woodbury timothy.woodbury@usna.com Debbee O’Donnell 410-295-4043 Member Services Coordinator Copy Editors Kathleen Rohrs 410-295-4044 Captain Andrew Wilson ’77, USNR (Ret.) Member Services Coordinator Kat Braz Amy Garwood 410-295-4015 Contributing Photographers Director, Alumni Travel Captain Laura Hatcher ’92, USN (Ret.) Debbie Latta and Kelly Eskelsen Wes Huey ’87 410-295-4023 Executive Dir., Strategy and Legacy Programs Contact Shipmate Service Academy Career Conference 410-295-4000 Main Tonya McGinnis 410-295-4022 410-295-4074 Classified Advertising Director, SACC 404-634-2351 Display Advertising 410-295-4021 410-295-4000 Address Updates/Corrections Melissa Nelson Assistant Director, SACC Submissions COMMUNICATIONS Editorial shipmate@usna.com 410-295-4080 Address Change/Delivery alumni@usna.com John Schofield Executive Director, Communications Bravo Zulu shipmate@usna.com Class Payments checkrequest@usna.com Emily Lucht 410-295-4047 Director, Digital Communications Chapter ColumnsS chapternews@usna.com S Class Columns classnews@usna.com Jackie Furton 410-295-4073 Obituaries obits@usna.com Art Director SACC Program sacc@usna.com Heather Payne 410-295-4033 Register of Alumni registerofalumni@usna.com Creative Director, Communications S For Secretary use only, please Sophia Smith 410-295-4011 Creative Coordinator Address emails to individual staff as follows: Luke Sohl 410-295-4009 first name . last name @ usna.com Senior Graphic Designer Jimmy DeButts 410-295-4085 CONTACT US Editor U. S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Anne Sharpe 410-295-4078 and Foundation Assistant Director, Communications 301 King George St., Annapolis, MD 21402 410-295-4074 Main Phone 410-295-4000 Maria O’Shea Assistant Production Manager Foundation Development 410-295-4100 Sandra Stansbury-Spadaro 410-295-4076 Athletic & Scholarship Dev. 410-295-4095 Communications Specialist Sarah Trimmer 410-295-4077 Digital Communications Strategy Lead Timothy Elizabeth Woodbury 410-295-4064 Memorial Affairs Manager Publisher Jeff Webb ’95; jeff.webb@usna.com
FLUEGEL ALUMNI CENTER Susan Parker 410-295-4053 Exec. Director, Enterprise Events and Operations 410-295-4166 Opinions expressed in Shipmate are those of the authors. Elizabeth Beedenbender Director, Engagement Operations They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or attitude of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association Courtney Cober 410-295-4035 and Foundation, its officers or editorial staff. All pictures Director, Facilities Maintenance, are official Department of Defense photographs unless otherwise credited. Member, Council for the Advancement Fluegel Alumni Center and Support of Education (CASE). John Cooper 410-295-4031 Shipmate (ISSN 0488-6720) is published six times a year Facilities Manager (January-February, March-April, May-June, July-August, September-October and November-December). Cyndi Morgan ’93 410-295-4024 Copyrighted 2026 by the United States Naval Academy Facilities Worker Alumni Association, Inc., 301 King George Street, 410-295-4030 Annapolis, MD 21402-1306. Membership dues (including Bridgette Lundfelt Shipmate) are $110 per year; Canadian and foreign Senior Associate Director memberships are $115. Single copies are $10 each. Laura Cylc 410-295-4014 Periodicals Postage Paid at Annapolis, MD, and at Assistant Director, Events additional mailing offices. All editorial matter should be addressed to Jimmy DeButts, Kylie Freeburger 410-295-4081 p: 410-295-4085, jimmy.debutts@usna.com. Inquiries Assistant Director, Events concerning membership or subscriptions and notification of change of address of members and subscribers should Gail Hutchinson 410-295-4019 be addressed to U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association, Assistant Director, Enterprise Events 301 King George St., Annapolis, MD 21402-1306; Danielle Milanette 410-295-4054 p: 410-295-4062; alumni@usna.com. Senior Event Coordinator 144 SHIPMATE • MARCH-APRIL 2026
STAFF AND ASSISTANCE
FLUEGEL ALUMNI CENTER CONTINUED Madi Rozgonyi 410-295-4034 Events and Sales Coordinator Judy Buddensick 443-994-2511 Partnership Marketing Liason
DEVELOPMENT CONTINUED Chelsea Clute 410-295-4123 Managing Regional Director, Development Ted Ahrens 410-295-4183 Regional Director, Development
TREASURY AND OPERATIONS John Coppola 410-295-4040 Executive Vice President/CFO Lisa Strobel 410-295-4051 Executive Director, Finance Mikayla Owens 410-295-4129 Dir., Investment Reporting and Special Projects Linda Reyes 410-295-4056 Director, Revenue Specialist Janet Douglas 410-295-4057 Investment Operatons Manager Mia Jones 410-295-4061 Accounts Payable Manager Kelly Dizon 410-295-4068 Senior Accountant Patricia “Patty” Ratigan 410-295-4028 Staff Accountant Dawn Beach 410-295-4177 Payroll Manager Gift Administration Team Darlene Jackson 410-295-4131 Director, Gift Administration Elvira Reyes 410-295-4116 Senior Gift Manager Erica Miller 410-295-4125 Gift Administrator II Jodi Reilly 410-295-4114 AP and Gift Support Specialist
Caroline Avena 410-295-4118 Assistant Director, Regional Development Laura Montgomery 410-295-4192 Associate Director, Regional Development William Seiferth 410-295-4191 Assistant Director, Regional Development Misie King 410-295-4012 Admin. Manager, Development Tracey Benzing 410-295-4012 Admin. Coordinator, Regional Development Prospect Development and Research Annie Ferry 410-295-4120 Assistant Director, Research and Portfolio Management Mary Barto 410-295-4190 Analyst, Research and Portfolio Management Paula Whisted 410-295-4189 Director, Research and Portfolio Management Planned Giving Jennifer Macris 410-295-4105 Director, Planned Giving Mikala Ragin 410-295-4117 Administrative Coordinator, Planned Giving Annual Programs Megan Farmer 410-295-4188 Director, Annual Giving Programs Sara Brown 410-295-4130 Assistant Director, Class Giving Programs Karen Hicks 410-295-4119 Associate Director, Parent Giving Programs Mary Mitchell 410-295-4151 Coordinator, Annual Giving Programs Donor Relations and Stewardship Natalie Brianas 410-295-4102 Associate Vice President, Donor Engagement and Strategic Partnerships Travis Galaska 410-295-4111 Director, Donor Experience and Stewardship Hannah Geib 410-295-4127 Associate Director, Campaign Operations Sarah Jane Dunaway Silverman 410-295-4124 Assoc. Dir., Development Communications Jamie Janette 410-295-4113 Operations Manager, Donor Experience and Strategy Megan Kowalski 410-295-4107 Senior Development Writer Strategic Advancement Resources Adriana Bitoun 410-295-4150 Executive Director, STAR Team Beth Spicer 410-295-4149 Director, Info. Management and Reporting Stephanie Reuer 410-295-4153 Assistant Director, Gift Funds Compliance
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Garrett Keating 410-295-4087 Director, Information Technology Jordan Bailey 410-295-4060 Sr. Assoc. Dir., Enterprise Network and Security Denise Clark 410-295-4079 Associate Director, Data Services Derrick Planz 410-295-4067 Associate Director, Software Developer Rick Clark 410-295-4088 Associate Director, Information Technology Dustin Tripp 410-295-4086 Security Specialist Ryan Haddaway 410-295-4089 Help Desk Technician Ashley Norfolk 410-295-4084 SQL Application Developer HUMAN RESOURCES Dr. Joy Jones 410-295-4048 Executive Director, Human Resources Tom Cloutier 410-295-4050 Assistant Director, Human Resources Nan Hooe 410-295-4045 Benefits Specialist DEVELOPMENT Bill O’Connor 410-295-4101 Executive Vice President Abby Repko 410-295-4103 Exec. Administrator/Principal Gift Administrator Tonya Grant 410-295-4108 Director, Corporate and Foundation Relations Rachel Johnson 410-295-4109 Asst. Dir., Corporate and Foundation Relations Major Gifts Ashley “AJ” Bauer 410-295-4160 Associate Vice President, Development Mariah Sakellaris 410-295-4187 Associate Director, Regional Development John Maconi 410-295-4185 Managing Regional Director, Development Dan Quattrini ’81 410-295-4167 Regional Director, Development
Michelle Lian Data Processing Specialist
410-295-4122
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 Change/Delivery alumni@usna.com 410-295-4000 Donate 410-295-4115 Membership Updates 410-295-4000 USNA Main Phone 410-293-1000 U.S. Naval Academy Athletics 410-293-2700