CV / CVA / CVS-14 CG-47 April 2018 The USS ...Universal City, TX 78148 Director: [email protected]...

CV / CVA / CVS-14 CG-47 April 2018

The USS TICONDEROGAVeterans’ Association NEWS

VOLUME 45 NO 2

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OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS 2017 - 2018

SHIPMATES! NOW HEAR THIS!We are always looking for Memorabilia for our Museum Rooms. Soon we will be starting one at theMississippi Maritime and Warship Museum in Pascagoula, MS. Keep us in mind as we’ll be starting withvery little memorabilia. Keep in mind this is for CG-47 memorabilia only. If you have anything you wantto donate contact Ed Trotter at [email protected]. Thanks for your help in keeping our memoriesalive to others through our Museum Rooms.

Officers 2017-2018 Directors (continued) Directors (continued) Committees (continued)

President: Director: Director: Chaplain:Steven Codding John F. Deasy P. P. Parker W. Patterson P. P. Pastor Brett Inman9260 Hilltop Lane 560 Maple Ave. 4 Terrace Hill Road 8838 E Cooper StBloomington, IL 61705 Doylestown, PA 18901-4451 Pine Grove, PA 17963-9399 Tucson, AZ 85710-4416(309) 827-4017 (215) 348-9981 (570) 345-3344 (520) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]@bigt.net Director:

Director: Doc Simon P. P. Public Relations ChairmanExecutive Vice President: John B. Dupont P. P. 803 Hartford Ave. Jerry H. Cole P. P.David Graf 4590 Linwood Circle White River Jct, VT 05001-8052 945 N. Delacroix Dr2521 Thicket Ridge Ct. Deep Haven, MN 55331-9297 (802) 295-2851 Green Valley, AZ 85614-5266Longwood, FL 32779-3630 (952) 474-4731 [email protected] (708) 227-0073(860) 608-5943 [email protected] (520) [email protected] Director: [email protected]@bigt.net Director: Edgar S. Trotter, Jr.

Lloyd Frank P. P. 1150 Baywood Ave. Memorials ChairmanFirst Vice President: 2129 Bliss Comer St Camarillo, CA 93010-3005 Robert HildebrandBill Spanbauer Henderson, NV 89044-0174 (805) 484-2930 2016 Reseda Way4409 Eureka Rd (702) 361-6660 [email protected] Antioch, CA 94509-5834Omro, WI 54963-9615 [email protected] (925) 757-1836(920) 410-7500 Director: [email protected]@gmail.com Director: Fred [email protected] Charles E. Hill 5808 SW 27TH STREET Membership Chairman:

22 W. Hancock St. Topeka, KS 66614 Edgar S. Trotter, Jr.Second Vice President: Lansdale, PA 19446-3812 (785) 271-5900 1150 Baywood Ave.Larry Qualter (215) 855-5299 [email protected] Camarillo, CA 93010-300569 Hemlock Circle [email protected] (805) 484-2930Peekskill, NY 10566-4963 Committees [email protected](914) 734-7677 Director: [email protected]@gmail.com John Lunsford P.P. Newsletter Editor:[email protected] 2504 McNutt Cruiser Store Operator Budget Chairman

Bakersfield, CA 93306-4469 Edgar S. Trotter, Jr. George Passantino P. P.Secretary: (661) 872-8850 1150 Baywood Ave. PO BOX 3101Dennis SaBell [email protected] Camarillo, CA 93010-3005 Pagosa Springs, CO 81147-3101PO BOX 3178 (805) 484-2930 (303) 884-7565Universal City, TX 78148 Director: [email protected] [email protected](303) 881-4787 Alfred F. McDonnell P.P. [email protected]@gmail.com 1749 9th Ave Historian

San Francisco, CA 94122 David Graf Carrier Store OperatorTreasurer: 415-661-6753 2521 Thicket Ridge Ct. Art CaselloGeorge Passantino P. P. [email protected] Longwood, FL 32779-3630 1737 Hoyt Ave E9608 Tomahawk Trail (860) 608-5943 Saint Paul, MN 55106-1328Fort Worth, TX 76244-7125 Director: [email protected] (651) 774-1685(303) 884-7565 Joseph McDonnell P. P. [email protected] [email protected]@aol.com 4141 Inola Trl. Ne [email protected]@bigt.net Roswell, GA 30075-1658 New Sites Coordinator

(770) 335-1715 © Joyce Frank Liaison USS HORNET CVS-12Directors [email protected] 2129 Bliss Comer St Richard Radigonda

Henderson, NV 89044-0174 357 Jade CircleDirector * * (702) 361-6660 Vallejo CA. 94590Jerry H. Cole P. P. [email protected] (707) 563-5556945 N. Delacroix Dr [email protected]/[email protected] Valley, AZ 85614-5266(708) 227-0073 WebMaster:(520) 648-7196 Gordon S. Humphrey, [email protected] 15030 223rd Drive SE

Monroe, WA 98272-9089(425) [email protected]

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGEGREETINGS SHIPMATES, FRIENDS AND FAMILY,

This year marks New Orleans 300th Birthday. The celebration beganon New Years Eve with a massive fireworks show over theMississippi River.Exhibitions, festivals and events are planned throughout 2018. Whata fantastic time for us to be holding our reunion in New Orleans. Ihope that everyone has made plans to join us this year. It's been a busy but fun timeputting all of the reunion details together. I hope everyone will enjoy what we have plannedfor you.The Crowne Plaza has waived the parking fee for those of us that are driving. There willalso be a shuttle to and from the airport. Maps with a list of attractions will be availablefor your free time. There is no shuttle for downtown, but you could use Uber or Taxi.A welcome reception on Friday evening will be held at the hotel. This will be a good timeto relax and catch up with everyone.New membership is something we are always working on. Ed Trotter has been doing agreat job with this. He is breaking it down into divisions. He could use some help, so ifyou know of any shipmates that aren't members of the association, please contact themor pass information on to Ed. This is a difficult task and I truly appreciate all of the timeand energy that Ed has devoted to this project.We have received a response from the Secretary of the Navy, Richard V. Spencer statingthat the name Ticonderoga will be considered when naming future ships.A special thanks to George Passantino for scanning the cruise books to disc. This willpreserve them for all time. Laptops will be available at reunion for viewing them. Thisalso saves us from shipping them from reunion to reunion.Another thing on our agenda will be to elect a new treasurer. George Passantino hasbeen our acting treasurer for the past year. Many thanks to him for stepping up and fillingin this year. It's a big responsibility and we very much appreciate his willingness to dothis until a permanent treasurer is elected.It's been a cold and snowy winter in Illinois and Sandy and I are looking forward to spring,I'm sure everyone else is too, so pack your dancing shoes, there will be music after thebanquet. Join us in New Orleans !!!Look forward to seeing everyone.

God Bless America!Steve CoddingPresident

USS Ticonderoga Veterans Association

USS TICONDEROGA REUNION ACTIVITY REGISTRATION FORMMay 17-22, 2018

Listed below are all registration, tour, and meal costs for the reunion. Please enter how many people will be participating ineach event and total the amount. Send that amount payable to ARMED FORCES REUNIONS, INC. in the form of check ormoney order (no credit cards or phone orders accepted). If a valid email address is provided, a receipt will be sentelectronically. Otherwise, your cancelled check will serve as your confirmation. Returned checks will be charged a $20 fee.You may also register online and pay by credit card at www.afr-reg.com/ticonderoga2018 (3.5% will be added to online creditcard transactions). All registration forms and payments must be received by mail on or before April 25, 2018. After that date,reservations will be accepted on a space available basis. We suggest you make a copy of this form before mailing. Please donot staple or tape your payment to this form.

Armed Forces Reunions, Inc. OFFICE USE ONLY322 Madison Mews Check # _________ Date Received __________Norfolk, VA 23510 Inputted _________ Nametag Completed _____ATTN: USS TICONDEROGA

CUT-OFF DATE IS 4/12/18PricePer

# ofPeople Total

TOURSFRIDAY, MAY 18: NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM $65 $FRIDAY, MAY 18: NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM (WWII VETERAN PRICE) $37 $SATURDAY, MAY 19: NEW ORLEANS CITY TOUR $48 $

HOTEL MEALSUNDAY, MAY 19: BANQUET (Please select your entrée choice)8oz Herb Marinated Top Sirloin $48 $Dijon Mustard Crusted Airline Chicken Breast $48 $Pan Seared Red Drum with Crawfish Etouffe Sauce $48 $

MANDATORY REGISTRATION FEESArmed Forces Reunions Registration Fee (mandatory for all attendees) $ 10 $Group Registration Fee (waived for shipmate’s guests if only attending one event, i.e. banquet) $ 65 $

Total Amount Payable to Armed Forces Reunions, Inc. $PLEASE PRINT NAME AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR ON YOUR NAMETAG

FIRST ___________________________________LAST _______________________________________

YEARS ON BOARD 19___ - ___RATE/RANK______________________ DIVISION _________________

SPOUSE NAME (IF ATTENDING)_________________________________________________________

GUEST NAMES________________________________________________________________________

STREET ADDRESS____________________________________________________________________

CITY, ST, ZIP_________________________________________PH. NUMBER (______)______-_______

EMAIL_______________________________________________________________________________

DISABILITY/DIETARY RESTRICTIONS_____________________________________________________(Sleeping room requirements must be conveyed by attendee directly to hotel)MUST YOU BE LIFTED HYDRAULICALLY ONTO THE BUS WHILE SEATED IN YOUR WHEELCHAIR IN ORDER TOPARTICIPATE IN BUS TRIPS? ❑ YES ❑ NO (PLEASE NOTE THAT WE CANNOT GUARANTEE AVAILABILITY).

EMERGENCY CONTACT________________________________ PH. NUMBER (_____) ____-________For refunds and cancellations please refer to our policies outlined at the bottom of the reunion program. CANCELLATIONS WILLONLY BE TAKEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 9:00am-5:00pm EASTERN TIME (excluding holidays). Call (757) 625-6401 to cancel reunionactivities and obtain a cancellation code. Refunds processed 4-6 weeks after reunion.

CROWNE PLAZA NEW ORLEANS AIRPORT – NEW ORLEANS, LA(504) 467-5611 - 800-227-6963

www.neworleansairporthotel.comLocation: 2829 Williams Boulevard, Kenner, LA 70062

The Crowne Plaza New Orleans Airport Hotel is located just 2.5 miles from theLouis Armstrong International Airport and just 12 miles from downtown New Orleans

Reservation InformationPlease call the number above and reference the USS Ticonderoga Veterans Association or please go to

www.afr‐reg.com/ticonderoga2018 and click on the hotel reservation link at the top of the pageGroup Name: USS Ticonderoga Veterans Association (CODE: TVZ)Reunion Dates: May 17-21, 2018Rate: $119 + tax (currently 14.75%) Breakfast is included in the rate for up to two (2) people, each additional is $10/personGroup rate is available three (3) days before and after reunion dates, based on availabilityCut off Date: 04/25/18 Late reservations will be processed based on space availability at a higher rate.Cancellation Policy: All reservations must be accompanied by a credit card or first nights room deposit. Any deposits will berefunded or credited only if notice is received 24 hours prior to arrival date and cancellation number must be obtained byguest.

Parking & Shuttle InformationThe Crowne Plaza New Orleans Airport Hotel provides complimentary airport shuttle service to and from the Louis

Armstrong International Airport. The shuttle runs from 4am until midnight, picking up at the airport every 30 minutes.The hotel offers parking at a rate of $10 per night per car.

Wheelchair RentalScootAround rents both manual and power wheelchairs by the day and week. Please call (888) 441‐7575 or visit

www.scootaround.com for details or to make reservations====================================================================================================

USS TICONDEROGA VETERANS ASSOCIATION MAY 17 – 21, 2018CROWNE PLAZA NEW ORLEANS AIRPORT | NEW ORLEANS, LA

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, MAY 17 Daily breakfast is included in your room rate2:00pm - 6:00pm Reunion Registration Open

Hospitality Room open for the duration of the reunion.

FRIDAY, MAY 188:00am - 9:00am Reunion Registration Open9:00am - 2:30pm NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM (See Page 14)3:00pm - 4:00pm Reunion Registration Open5:00pm - 6:00pm Welcome Reception

SATURDAY, MAY 199:00am - 2:30pm NEW ORLEANS CITY TOUR (See Page 14)4:00pm - 5:30pm Board Meeting5:30pm - 7:00pm David Rocco (Book on Dixie Kiefer) (See page 6)

SUNDAY, MAY 2010:00am - 11:00am Business Meeting10:00am - 11:00am Ladies Function11:00am - 3:00pm Free time4:00pm - 6:00PM Pictures taken6:00pm - 7:00pm Cash Bar Reception7:00pm Banquet (Guest Speaker See Page 19)

MONDAY, MAY 218:00am - 9:00am Memorial Service Farewells and departures

CANCELLATION AND REFUNDPOLICY FOR ARMED FORCES

REUNIONS, INC.For attendees canceling reunionactivities prior to the cut-off date (April12, 2018), Armed Forces Reunions,Inc. (AFR) shall process a full refundless the non-refundable AFRregistration fee ($7 per person).Attendees canceling reunion activitiesafter the cut-off date will be refunded tothe fullest extent that AFR’s vendorcommitments and guarantees willallow, less the non-refundable AFRregistration fee. Cancellations willonly be taken Monday throughFriday from 9:00am until 5:00pmEastern Standard Time, excludingholidays. Please call (757) 625-6401to cancel reunion activities and obtaina cancellation code. Refundsprocessed 4-6 weeks after reunion.Canceling your hotel reservation doesnot cancel your reunion activities.

David Rocco co-authors the book "The Indestructible Man" About Dixie KieferCome hear David Rocco & Don Keith on Saturday May 19, 2018 at 5:30 PM

A new book about a little-known hero of World War II—and one with strong ties to this area—has justbeen published by local writer David Rocco. Rocco has recently co-authored the book “TheIndestructible Man,” the amazing story of Navy officer Dixie Kiefer, who was an instrumental player

in major battles in World War II after serving in World War I.Dixie Kiefer was a true World War II hero. He was the first man to fly anairplane off a ship at night. He was Executive Officer on the carrier USSYorktown at the battles of the Coral Sea and Midway, and skipper ofUSS Ticonderoga when she came under brutal attack by Japanesekamikaze planes. He was the last man off Yorktown before she sank atMidway. Though seriously injured, he swam through shark-infestedwaters pushing a life raft filled with hurt sailors toward a rescue ship.

Later, as captain of the big aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga, his ship came under a vicious attack bykamikaze aircraft. Though critically hurt by flying shrapnel, with 65serious wounds, he remained on the bridge for twelve hours,overseeing counter-attacks. He continued damage control with abadly broken right arm after being hit by suicide planes. Hesuccessfully steered his big carrier through a killer typhoon thattook the lives of more than 800 men throughout the Allied fleet.Through it all, he performed coolly and heroically, leading his menthrough hell and back.But “Captain Dixie” was much more. He was a sailor’s skipper. Aman who would not ask his men to do anything he would not do.He referred to his crew as “Dixie’s kids.” His regular “cocktailclub” meetings aboard his ships were legendary. And he even hada key role in an Academy Award-winning documentary titled “The Fighting Lady”.His men joked their skipper had so much shrapnel in his body that the ship’s compass followed him.

When the Secretary of the Navy, James V. Forrestal*, a Beaconnative, awarded Dixie the Distinguished Service Medal for hisamazing valor, he proclaimed Kiefer to be “The Indestructible Man.”But nobody could have foreseen the end to Captain Dixie's story.Now, for the first time, Don Keith and David Rocco tell the full storyof this pioneering hero who inspired not only the men with whom heserved, but an entire nation at war.

On November 14, 1945, a plane crash took thelives of six Navy servicemen. Their plane

crashed on the northwest flank of Mt. Beacon in the Town of Fishkill on ArmisticeDay 1945. The Beechcraft Twin Engine Navy Transport was returning to theUS Naval Air Station (NAS) in Quonset Point Rhode Island from CurtissWright Airport in Caldwell, NJ (now called Essex County Airport).The Navy Transport departed from Curtiss Wright Airport at approximately 11:35AM. Unfortunately, they encountered heavy rain and fog when they approachedthe Stewart Airport air traffic controller. At about 12 noon on 11/11/1945, all sixmen lost their lives when their plane crashed on Mt. Beacon, just 100 feet from thepeak. The six are:

Commodore Dixie Kiefer - 49, Commander Dr. Ignatious Zeilinski - 44,Lt. Lloyd Heinzen - Pilot - 27, Lt. Jr. Hugo "Hans" Kohler - Co -pilot - 25Aviation Machinist Clarence Hooper - 22 Seaman 1st Class David Wood - 23

USS TICONDEROGA VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION PLAQUEPRESENTED TO CREW OF USS WAYNE E. MEYER, DDG-108

As those of us who served on USSTICONDEROGA, CG-47 know,WAYNE E. MEYER was the“FATHER OF AEGIS” and had anintegral part in the life of the ship andthe AEGIS program.As shown here, the plaque has ourAssociation crest, the words: THEUSS TICONDEROGA VETERANS’ASSOCIATION PRESENTS THISPLAQUE TO THE OFFICERS ANDCREW OF THE USS WAYNE E.MEYER, DDG-108 IN HONOR OF

WAYNE E. MEYER, “THE FATHER OF AEGIS”, WHO LED THE WAY INDEVELOPING THE USS TICONDEROGA CLASS CRUISERS AND THE USSARLEIGH BURKE DESTROYERS WITH THEIR AN/SPY-1 RADARSYSTEM”

The Plaque has a picture of WAYNE E. MEYER speaking at the Christeningceremony of TICONDEROGA, CG-47, on MAY 16, 1981 at INGALLSSHIPBUILDING, PASCAGOULA, MS. The plaque was presented to CDRVincent A. Fortson of San Diego, CA by Association member Ed Trotter (wearingdifferent Ball Caps, CVA and CG), while the ship was in Port Hueneme, CA. Theplaque was made by Trevor Ashton of Aswell Trophies, Oxnard, CA. At thebottom of the plaque we asked God to bless them in all they do.

NEED HELP WITH GUESTBOOK ENTRIESTHESE ENTRIES ARE DIVIDED BY TYPE:

RELATIVES – LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON RELATIVES:9/27/2017 Wade Wallen Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: N/ADivision N/A Rate/Rank N/A Cell#: 214-477-3287 5630 Brookhill Ln, Frisco, Texas 75034Comments: A big “Thank You” to all who served. My father was Don Wallen (d. 1992), and he served from 1962 to 1968. He waspart of VF-53 during the Gulf of Tonkin incident. I don’t know anything about his time in the navy and would like to talk with anybodywho knew him. Best Regards, Wade Wallen (214-477-3287).

4/11/2017 Frank J Guarino Sr Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 00Division 00 Rate/Rank 00 Cell#: 8457023064 1 INKY LANE, HOPEWEWLL JUNCTION, NY 12533Comments: FOUND THIS SITE AND I WOUNDER IF ANY ONE KNOW MY BROTHER JOE.HE WAS ABOARD IN1953 OR SO A FEW OF HIS FRIENDS WERE FROM THE BRONX, PLEASE GET BACK TO ME IFPOSSIBLE, GOD BLESS.I WAS ABOARD THE USS YELLOWSTONE AD27 DURING THE CONFLICT IN KOREA . THANK YOU 'FRANK

3/2/2017 Walter Lynn Everett Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1964-1966Division Fitron Fifty-Three Rate/Rank AN-E3 2046 Baja circle, Los Fresnos, TX 78566Comments: Hi, I am Sabrina the daughter of Walter Lynn Everett. Sadly he passed this last December. I am looking for information onhim during his time on ship. I requested his service records as I am looking for any information of him getting off the ship while inVietnam. I want to assume he was able to leave ship at one point because he received a Non Judicial Punishment that restricted him tothe limit of the USS Ticonderoga for 15 days. We have a couple of pictures of him while he served on the ship. One sitting on the flightdeck with a plane behind him that has Ticonderoga on it. We also have pictures of the USO with BOB HOPE and Miss USA.

12/10/2016 Edward (Cole) Frank / Mel Cole Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: mid 60sDivision ??? Rate/Rank ??? 2109 Woodburn Dr SE Apt 6, Grand Rapids, MI 49546Comments: My dad, Mel Cole, from Swartz Creek, Michigan, was stationed on the Ticonderoga in the mid 60s. I would like to hearfrom anyone who may have known him. I don't know much about him since he died when I was 2 on New Years Eve 1968. Thanks toanyone who can tell me anything about him and thank you all for your service to our country.

12/3/2016 Larry Stum Email: [email protected] Rate/Rank E-5 (retired E-7)Pimlico, Moncks Corner, SC 29461Comments: Larry stum was my father. He passed in 1993. I would enjoy sharing information. Chris Stum. Larry F Stum was a DC-2in R-Div aboard in 1968. His picture is in the 1968 Cruise Book ("Movin' West")

9/26/2015 Lisa Fitzpatrick Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1944-Division Unknown Rate/Rank Unknown Lakeview Terrace, Burlington , Vermont 05401Comments: My grandfather, Fritz Handl, was on the Ticonderoga when it was attacked during WWII. I was hoping to find someonewhom may have served with him.

SHIPMATES – LOOKING TO CONNECT WITH SHIPMATES10/28/2017 William Fidler Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1969-1970Division G division...and 5 th division Rate/Rank E-3 609-262-9120 Cell#: 268-246-7909 25 Eastonway, Hainesport, NJ08036Comments: Looking for shipmates who served under Lieutenant Simpson

8/19/2017 Bob Pulrang Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: Oct.1966 to June 1969Division V4 Rate/Rank E3 612-869-0239 Cell#: 952-649-8950 6609 Columbus AV. S., Mel's, MN. 55423Comments: Love to hear from any of you guys. Hope your all doing well hope to hear from you. Call, leave a message if I don'tanswer.

2/17/2017 Dennis D Hamilton Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1967-1969Division HC-1 Helicopter Squadron Rate/Rank AE-3 619-584-2941 Cell#: N/A 4157 Illinois St., San Diego, California 92104-1909Comments: Have been looking for other HC-1 members but have not had any results. It's only been 48 years. If other members readthis please contact me.

12/30/2016Mark Brubaker Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1965 thru 1967Division Nav. Rate/Rank QM3 301-642-0133 17 Lincoln Ave. 302, Colonial Beach, VA 22443Comments: Anyone who may recognize me please feel free to contact me.

SHIPMATES – LOOKING TO CONNECT WITH SHIPMATES (Continued)9/8/2016 Thomas Cook Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1961-1964Division G Rate/Rank AO2 307 S. Smith Ave. #77, Corona, CA 92882Comments: Just been cruising the internet remembering the time aboard, and Tico's history on you tube and the like, very interestingstuff. Would love to exchange emails with any shipmates or other former crew members.

7/8/2016 Al Lyon Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1961 - 1962Division OP Rate/Rank YN3 336 775 1399 378 Payne Road, Lexington, NC 27295Comments: Worked in Air Intelligence and the Operations Office. Great two years. Served with many great guys. Would love to hearfrom anyone. Not many left.

5/3/2016 John MacKellar Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1959-1961Division OE Rate/Rank ETR-3 763 Maranello Street, Las Vegas , Nevada 89052Comments: Great time with the OE guys in West Pac. Love to hear from anyone in the OE division in 1959-1961.

3/16/2016 William Jackson Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1969/1971Division G Rate/Rank E3 3404 Knights Rd Apt 1, Bensalem , PA 19020Comments: Looking for anyone from G Division in 1969 – 1971

1/25/2016 Johnny Rudish Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1972-DecomissionedDivision B #3 fireroom Rate/Rank E4 Cell#: 319-480-6303 17854 Green Road, Anamosa, IA 52205Comments: I was on the ship in fire room #3 during Apollo 16 and Sky Lab.I get a lot of comments on my hat from the USS Ticonderoga.It was a privilege to be on this ship. Trying to get in touch with an old shipmate, Danny Jones of Flint, Michigan. If anyone knowswhere he is please let me know. Thanks.

12/2/2015 Gary McComas Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1966-1968Division B Rate/Rank BT-E5 360 691-7637 8102 161st ave NE, Lake Stevens, Washington, 98258Comments: I'm trying to locate a shipmate, Jim Raley. If you have any information, please give me a call.

11/21/2016 Thomas Girdner Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: May 1958 / Feb. 1962Division V6 Rate/Rank Atc3 407 493 3049 Cell#: Same 29235 Perdido Beach Blvd. 601, Orange Beach, Al 36561Comments: Looking for others who served during 1958/1962 would welcome hearing from you.

10/13/2015 Mike Wilson Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1966-1968Division S6 Rate/Rank Airman 805 296-3164 Cell#: 805 296-0323 P. O. Box 2562, Paso Robles, CA 93447Comments: would like to connect with other airmen on the Tico 66-68.

VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) REQUESTS/INFO7/17/2017 Rick Kilmer Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1966 & 1967Division V-4 below decks on CVA-14 Rate/Rank E-3 7 Dashwood Ct., The Hills of Lakeway, TX 78738Comments: Went on to fly 2nd Mech on a P-3 in VP-40 for 1968 & 1969. Diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2006.Recently learned that Lymphoma is a "Blue Water presumptive disease" for filing with VA for disability if stationed near Viet Nam.However, I also qualified under "boots on the ground" while in VP-40 as we flew out of Cam Rahn Bay some. Now waiting on the VA'sresponse. If you have had cancer or heart disease due to Agent Orange, file for your well-deserved benefits

3/19/2017 Rick Kennedy Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 6/1970 to 3/1972Division ASW Group 3 Staff Rate/Rank RM3 470-778-9015 Cell#: 404-680-0638 2825 Shumard Oak Drive, Braselton, GA30517Comments: Lots of good memories on Tico's last tour of Vietnam. I now have ALS and 100% disabled with the VA.Anyone else out there have ALS? Rick

3/4/2017 Ronald Babcock Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1965/66Division VF-51 AMMO CREW CHIEF Rate/Rank AZ3 Cell#: 941-720-4552 6205 Flagfish Ct., Lakewood Ranch, Florida34202Comments: I am searching for anyone that spent their West Pacific tour off the coasts of N and S Vietnam on the flight deck and mayhave AGENT ORANGE related health issues. I have had 10 bladder cancer surgeries, ischemic heart disease, diabetes type II,hypothyroidism, etc. PLEASE CONTACT ME!!!

5/25/2016 Ronald Chang Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 12/1968-1*10/1969Division Legal Rate/Rank E3 925-768-9082 PO Box 902, Clayton, CA 94517Comments: Seeking VA compensation info for Legal Yeoman Robert Farhat family. Presently suffering from Parkinson relateddisease in the Blue Water category. Specifically interested in ship location during deployment, if onshore water was taken aboard, or itshipmates ever set foot in Vietnam, and water processing information I am a concerned associate and not a paid attorney.Any help orinformation could greatly assist his family in their time of need. Thank you.

VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) REQUESTS/INFO (Continued)William Sweeney Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1964-1966Division Flight Deck Rate/Rank E-4 6094482791 150 Dutch Neck Rd, East Windsor, NJ 08520Comments: I also had Prostate cancer in 2005. Also, I was diagnosed with Mylefibrosis . I am researching the instances of these diseasesamong my ship mates. I also was involved in two or three recon missions onshore.

10/27/2015 Garry H. Griffith Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 09/69-03/73Division Fox Rate/Rank FTG-05 256.313.0003 Cell#: 256.603.8411 104 Timberwind Drive, New Market, AL 35761Comments: I was a Tico crewmember from 09/69-03/73. I loved my time aboard the Ticonderoga (2 WesPacs, Apollo 16 recovery).It was the best time of my life...good shipmates, beautiful ports-of-call, and, lots of great memories. In response to Rob Babcock'scomments, I, too, have been turned down for Agent Orange disability. I had my prostate (cancerous) removed in 2008. My VA doctorsuggested that I file for disability, as prostate cancer was on the list of debilitating illnesses from exposure to Agent Orange. Blue waterhas not been recognized, as yet, only Brown water sailors. I will continue to fight this. I would like to hear from others that haveexperienced what Ron and I have gone through, please.

9/28/2015 Ron Babcock Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1965-66Division VF-51 Rate/Rank AZ3 Cell#: 941-720-4552 6205 Flagfish Ct., Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34202Comments: As a Blue Water Sailor I am wondering if any other Big T shipmates that sailed through the Agent Orange defoliant cloudsare suffering from illnesses caused by agent orange? As our squadron's ammo crew chief, my team and I climbed all over our fighterjets loading ammo, bombs & missiles and obviously our planes flew through the agent orange crap, but the VA does not want torecognize our claims as yet.

8/31/2017 Michael Joseph Manross Email: [email protected] north 4th ST Olean, NY 14760 Years On Board From/To: 01/02 71-12/05/71 Division M Rate/Rank E-3 Cell#: 716-378-3502Comments: looking for proof of the USS Ticonderoga ((CVS-14) being in Blue Water Vietnam in 1971

OTHER9/6/2017 Paul J. Albright Jr. Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 11/1962 to 11/63Division G and 1st Rate/Rank LTJG 805 646 5482 3375 Matilija Cyn Rd., Ojai, CA 93023Comments: Do you recall the Aft Stb gun mount misfire that happened sometime in March or April of our Far East Cruise of 1963. As1st Division JO at the time, I was the safety Officer at the check sight. The gun was smoothly tracking the target, Boatswain Mate PO3H.S. Horace, the mount Captain Loaded and at the last second the gun lurched off and the round fired into the water about 2 or 300 ydor so off our stb beam. My helmet with sound suppressor was knocked off in the lurch. I suffer progressing hearing loss as a result andneed some verification of the event for the VA.

4/4/2017 Ray Wieser Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1958Division V-6 Rate/Rank PRM-3 Cell#: 630-881-9972 1005 Catherine Ct., Naperville, IL. 60540Comments: Netflix just released a new 3 part series titled "Five Came Back".It's the story of five Hollywood movie directors and whatthey did in filming in WWII.I watched episode 3 today, which is the last of the series. In the 28th minute of this episode they show theKamikaze hitting the Ticonderoga and they mention our ships name. Have never seen this footage before. Thought this would be ofinterest to all.

3/15/2017 William H Leech Jr (Bill) Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: N/ADivision N/A Rate/Rank N/A 770-487-2821 Cell#: N/A 121 Magnolia Dr., Tyrone, GA 30290Comments: Everyone, My Father-in-Law,Robert Eugene Lewis,served on board the Ticonderoga during WW II. I have already writtenabout him and you now have his history on record. I write today because of a recent book I just finished: "Bringing The Thunder", byGordon Bennet Robertson, Jr. He flew 35 B-29 bombing missions right thru the end of the war against Japan. In fact, he flew on thelast night before the surrender announcement of August 15th,1945. In his book he tells a very funny story that ALMOST cost a B-29crew a court martial. On a return leg from Japan, a B-29 crew made a low , feigned, landing pass, with gear and flaps, against theTiconderoga (late spring/early summer 1945).The flight crew knew it was a joke but the ship did not. All kinds of lights and wave-offspreceded the "go-around". Much was made about it at the bomber base. However, the line crews never heard what the Ticonderogacommanders or crew had to say. Any veterans from that era remember any of the details ? Just thought you might enjoy this. Thanksfor your time. Bill Leech

1/3/2016 Joe Draganosky Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1965-1967Division S-7 Rate/Rank DP3 1 Scotch Pine, Littleton, CO 80127Comments: Ken McClendon anyone else looking for specific cruise books: I found a site that has them, just search for the year youwant. There are pics of some VERY YOUNG sailors, with separate listings for the various departments. Here's the link with the year1965 since that's the one I was looking for: http://www.navysite.de/cruisebooks/cv14-65/index.html

OTHER (Continued)8/27/2015 Ray Wieser Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 1958Division V-6 Rate/Rank PRM-3 Cell#: 630-881-9972 1005 Catherine Ct., Naperville, Illinois 60540Comments: I have signed the guestbook, in the past, but now want to share this info with you. I recently completed and opened my owndomain and web site with captioned photos of several WWII battlefield tours I have taken in the last ten years. Also, my flight on a B-24,earlier this year. If you're interested in WWII history, please visit my site. Also, a link to "Vet Tix", which is an organization dedicatedto providing tickets for many events to veterans. I know you'll also find this very worthwhile. My web site is raywieser.com Just goon your browser and type in to the http//www line near the top

1/9/2018 Janice Ketza Email [email protected] 11 Black Oak Trail Galena, IL 61036 (563) 581-6225

My Uncle, Norbert Frank Ketza, served upon the Ticonderoga in 1945 and was KIA on January 21, 1945. Kamakaziplanes struck the ship that day and Norbert saved 6 lives by going into smoke filled quarters and bringing themen top side. He went down for the 7th and succumbed to smoke. He received the Purple Heart and Navy Cross.

Our family has wondered for many years about the men he saved. We cannot find records about them. Do youhave any access to the records of the men he saved? Can you provide contact Info to them for me or contact themwith my interest and info.

The write up for the NAVY CROSS says:The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Pharmacist'sMate Third Class Norbert Frank Ketza (NSN: 7269493), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism andconspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. TICONDEROGA(CV-14), during enemy air attacks on 21 January 1945. While working with a repair party he made many trips into smoke-filledcompartments to rescue men who had been overcome with smoke. This was done with complete disregard for his ownpersonal safety and without benefit of a rescue breathing apparatus. Each man brought out by him was revived. On the lasttrip he himself was overcome and could never be revived. His actions were at all times inspiring and were in keeping withthe highest traditions of the United States Naval Service, in that he gave his own life in saving the lives of several of hisshipmates. If anyone has any information of the names of the people Norbert saved please provide that informationto [email protected] and I will forward it to Janice.

RESEARCH PROJCTS – THESE EMAILS ARE ASKING FOR INFO/PICS ONHISTORICAL HAPPENINGS ON THE SHIP (IF YOU KNOW OF ANY OTHER

EVENTS OF INTEREST LET THE EDITOR KNOW)7/22/2017 Wayne Loudermilk (Lad) Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 4/25/58 - 8/04/61Division B (Oil King) Rate/Rank BT3 (405) 789-1123 Cell#: (405) 501-3658 6508 NW 31st ST, Bethany, OK 73008-4113Comments: I've only been to 2 reunions but I've never been able to find anyone that was on board or heard of the Mighty T sinking atthe pier tied up at Alameda, I mean we were sitting on the bottom, was towed across the bay to Hunters Point. It was rumored we weregoing to Australia until this happened. If you're interested email me and I'll tell you the rest of the story.

5/4/2017 Melcor Chavez Email: [email protected] Years On Board From/To: 61-62Division A&B Rate/Rank Firemen 1 st class 1679 Cerro Crestado Dr., Los Lunas, New Mexico 87031Comments: Wonderful memories. On board when Big T collided with another ship, Can't remember the name.

SOOOO – PER ABOVE WE WANT INFORMATION ON THE SINKING OF THE SHIP IN ALAMEDA, CA IN 1960 (SEND INFOTO [email protected] AND COPY [email protected]) AND INFORMATION ON COLLISION WITH ANOTHER SHIP (I THINKTHIS COULD HAVE HAPPENED MORE THAN ONCE) TO [email protected] AND COPY [email protected]) AND WEWANT INFORMATION ABOUT LOSING A PLANE AND NUCLEAR DEVICE IN THE PACIFIC IN 1965 (SEND INFO TO DelMitchell at [email protected] AND COPY [email protected])

SHIP BELL VISITS NEED HELPERSAs we know the CV Bell is located on Naval Air Station, North Island in Coronado, CA. Naturally, we have shipmates and familiesthat would like to see the Bell. Unfortunately, you have to go on the base to see the Bell and to do that you must have an active duty orretired ID Card. Most who want to see the Bell do not have these kinds of ID Cards.

We have two requests to see the bell now with no date attached for one and perhaps September 2018 for the other.

Do we have anyone who has the proper ID to get on the base that would be willing to meet a requestee somewhere in Coronado, CA anddrive them on the base to see the Bell. If you are willing to do this please email [email protected] and he will coordinate any request.Thanks for your consideration of this request.

NATIONAL WW II MUSEUM A MUST SEE!

FASCINATING! “CITY TOUR” IN NEW ORLEANS!

NEW ORLEANS TOUR DESCRIPTIONS

NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUMFriday, May 18, 2018

Dedicated in 2000 as the National D-DayMuseum and now designated by Congress asthe country’s official WWII Museum, thisremarkable attraction illuminates the Americanexperience during the WWII era. From theNormandy invasion to the sands of the PacificIslands and the Home Front, you will see thecourage, teamwork and sacrifice of the menand women who won the war that changed theworld. Explore moving personal stories andpowerful interactive displays. Visit the U.S.Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center, whichtells the story of our nation’s unprecedentedindustrial capability during the war years. Newgalleries opened in 2015. Explore the evolvingstrategy for fighting across the Pacific and inAsia, and the cultural differences andtremendous range of extreme conditions thatconfronted our soldiers. Also learn about thefaltering first battles in North Africa to thebloody struggle at Germany's doorstep. Theimmersive galleries recreate actual battlesettings and villages. For an additional costview the powerfully authentic 4-D cinematicexperience, Beyond All Boundaries, narratedand produced by Tom Hanks, in the SolomonVictory Theater. Visit the Soda Shop or ChefJohn Besh’s The American Sector Restaurantfor lunch on your own. WWII Vets do not haveto pay the Museum admission price – see Vet’sprice below.

9:30am board bus, 2:30pm back at hotel$65/person ($37/WWII Veterans Only) includesbus, escort and admission. Movies and lunch areon your own.

NEW ORLEANS CITY TOURSaturday, May 19, 2018

Your tour of the Crescent City begins withviews and stories of Lake Pontchartrain, andcontinues to unique above-ground cemeteries.Enjoy the trip down historical St. CharlesAvenue complete with universities, parks, oldoaks, stately charm, and an operationalstreetcar line. Hear the stories of HurricaneKatrina and see first-hand the long-lastingeffect it has had on New Orleans. Continue tothe French Quarter (the “Vieux Carre”), wherea blend of French and Spanish culturesintermingles with a modern lifestyle. Alsowitness the bustling seaport activities, whichare such an important aspect of the city’seconomy. Enjoy free time at Jackson Square,the focal point of activity in the French Quarterand explore the area with its gracious ironbalconies and lovely courtyards. Lunch is onyour own in Jax Brewery, an old landmarktransformed into a modern complex of shopsand eateries, or at one of the many finerestaurants in the Quarter.

9:00am board bus, 2:30pm back at hotel$48/Person includes bus and guide. Lunch on

your own.

Tour prices do not include gratuity for busdriver and tour guide/escort. In order toaccommodate an on-time departure, pleasebe at the bus boarding area (South SideParking Lot) five minutes prior to postedtime.

TREASURERS REPORT Our New Orleans Reunion that will be held May 17th thru May 21st is fast approaching.

Make sure that you make your hotel reservation early with the Crowne Plaza to ensureyour room availability. Room reservation must be made by April 25th. After this cut-offdate, rooms may be sold out and the special Ticonderoga Rate will have ended. Duringpast reunions, people registering late had to book rooms in neighboring hotels at a muchhigher rate. Please book your rooms early. Concerning financial status of Big T Veterans Association, we have a strong financialposition. Over the past 3 years our funds have remained fairly constant as budgetedexpenses matched up very closely with revenue received. Over this 3 year period our expenses averaged being overbudget only by $885 per year. We are constantly looking at additional ways of reducing expenses to operate on a“Zero Budget”. (Revenue match Expense). The donations received over the past several months have been greatly appreciated. We always recognize thesevery thoughtful association members in our newsletters for their generosity. As our membership is aging, many ofour shipmates have become “Life Members” which eventually reduces annual revenue to the organization. Muchof our donations come from Life Members where they continue to support Big T with financial contributions. Wehave got some great members!! All gifts are appreciated and enables us to publish Quarterly Newsletters, offer aBig T website, operate an organization Data Base, and provide Annual Reunions. All of these functions are extremelyimportant to have and we plan to continue these into the coming years. Our association is currently involved in a search for a new permanent Treasurer. I am currently filling in asActing Treasurer until a replacement can be found. Please contact Big T President, Steve Codding (309-827-4017)for consideration for this key position in our organization. Looking forward to seeing you in New Orleans.Sincerely,George Passantino Acting Treasurer 8/17/17

FIRST NAME LAST NAME DIVISION RATE/RANK YRS ABOARD CITY STATEDELWYNN MITCHEL GM Division AO3 63 - 67 Bullhead City AZROBERT COLLINS VB87 AN2 44 - 45 Milford MADANIEL PRATER W Division E-6 72 - 74 St Peters MO

GEORGE SHIREY OP Division PT3 66 - 69 Algonquin ILDON BAKER B & A Division EN3 68 - 72 Dayton OH

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS !!!!NEW MEMBERS BETWEEN 12/1/2017 TO 2/28/2018 ********** WELCOME ABOARD

FIRST NAME LAST NAME GENERAL FUND MEMORIAL FUND DATA ENTRY-LOCATOR SHIPS BELL CG-47 MUSEUMDONALD SOWA X

JOHN DUPONT X XGARY SCHMIDT X X

THOMAS LANGE XWALLY BLINDE X

ANTONIO PERALES XLEONARD CORDILL XDENNIS SEGAR X

ED HEASLEY XTHOMAS WILSON X X X

DONATIONS MADE TO USS TICONDEROGA VETERANS ASSOCIATION 12/1/17 THRU 2/28/18 THANK YOU!

It is with great sadness that we report the deaths of the following Shipmates:Charles Jesse (Chuck) Crabaugh - Charles was a regular member who passed away on January 21, 2017 at age 76 inYuma, AZ. While onboard in 1958 -59 he was a RD2 in OI Div. After he left the ship he went to the USS CORAL SEA,CVA-43, until he left the NAVY in June 1961. He and his wife, Roberta, then moved to Alaska where he worked in the oilindustry for over 12 years. He then went into the convenience store business for 5 years followed by getting back on thewater as a commercial fishing boat operator and charter fishing boat operator and tour boat operator until he retired in 2007.The family then moved to Yuma, AZ where they lived until his death. The Association was blessed at the 2001 reunion inAnchorage, AK when we asked for volunteers to type the poor quality paper copies of the ship roster and Charles, facing a6 month night in AK when there would be little daylight, said he would type it. His efforts produced a file of about 14,000names who served on the ship. It has seen good use over the years. Charles is survived by his wife Roberta, son: EdwardWayne Crabaugh, Daughter Elaine (Crabaugh) Phillipps, Grand Daughters Kaitlin Rae Phillipps, Katrina Grace Phillipps,Elsa Rose Crabaugh and Margot James CrabaughDavid Barron Simpson, David was not a member of the Association. We were notified of his death by Member WayneBrown. David died on June 24, 2017 at age 77 in Oakwood, GA. While onboard in 1958 -62 he was a BT3 in B Div. After he left the ship he worked in the City of Glendale, CA power plant where he becamea supervisor before retiring in 2000. His wife Sharon died in 2000. He is survived by his daughter Stacey and sons Stephenand Scott and 9 grandchildren.Life Member Robert Lynn Sanders, died on August 27, 2016 at age 76 in Ft Worth, TX. While onboard in 1964 – 66

he was a LT in V-1 Div. After he left the ship he worked in Amarillo, Texas for the City of Amarillo in EmergencyManagement until he retired in 2007. He is survived by his wife of 3 years, Naomi, of Decatur, TX and sons Bryan andJason, daughter Hollye and stepson Scott Dudley and stepdaughter Kayla Rohr and 5 grandchildren/step grandchildren.

U. S. NAVY DECK LOGSIn Navy parlance, any kind of running record is called a "log." Many such logs are kepton board Navy ships, but only deck logs of commissioned Navy ships are retainedpermanently. Deck logs were created to form a chronological account of notable eventsoccurring in and around a ship (or other command, as appropriate), to serve as a reminderto the officers of the deck of their various duties, and to serve as a check on the activitiesof the officers of the deck. They were also maintained to serve as potential evidence inlegal proceedings in naval, admiralty, or civil courts. Deck logs can be used a proof ofservice off the coast of Viet Nam but that is not the same as having “Boots on the Ground”in Viet Nam. The Blue Water Navy Association has been instrumental in the NationalArchives to make Viet Nam era ships Deck Logs available on line. To see them go tohttps://www.archives.gov/researchOn the left side of the screen that comes up go to the Research in the National ArchivesCatalog box and click on the Search the Catalog link. When it opens typeTICONDEROGA Deck Logs (Do not use USS) in the search box and click on the searchbutton or hit ENTER.The search will show 9 pages of TICONDEROGA documents and DECK LOGS. Clickon the blue lettered title (not the picture) of the date you want. They are in monthlyincrements but not in date order. In the earlier years there was a Deck Log WeatherObservation Sheet on which the Latitude and Longitude data was entered and the nextpage would have the watch data starting with the 0000-0400 watch. Later years do nothave the Deck Log Weather Observation Sheet and the Latitude and Longitude data ison the first page.TICO Deck Logs are 1961 thru 1969 with 4 months missing from that era. We hope thisinformation is helpful.

Chaplains Corner By: LCDR Brett InmanFellow Shipmates & Friends,

Easter is a central celebration of the Christian faith practicedacross the globe. It celebrates both the death and resurrection of Jesus.Those outside the Christian faith often level accusations that thepractice and name “Easter” was actually usurped from a pagancelebration.

Anthony McRoy (Fellow of the British Society for the MiddleEast and lecturer in Islamic Studies at Wales Evangelical School of Theology, U.K.) whoresearched the history of this assertion concludes that the evidence points in the oppositedirection: that Easter’s name and celebration is not pagan in origin.

The assertion that the word Easter is of pagan origin is largely based on the English andGerman names for the celebration: Easter in English and Ostern in German. However, inmost of the world, especially in Europe, the name for the Christian celebration is derivedfrom the Greek word Pascha, which comes from pesach, the Hebrew word for Passover.

About 730 AD, The Venerable Bede, an English monk and historian, wrote that the monthof April used to be called Eosturmonath named after the fertility goddess Eostre, in whosehonor feasts were celebrated in that month. So, it was Bede who first asserted that the Eastercelebration during the Eosturmonath was borrowed from pagan feasts in celebration of thegoddess Eostre.

McRoy logically points out this is an impossible theory because the resurrection of Christwas celebrated as early as the second century A.D., long before the Nordic/Germanic andAnglo-Saxon tribes were evangelized in the 7th-8th centuries. Thus, the Easter/Passovercelebration can never have originated from any Germanic pagan festival.McRoy also cites research which concludes that there is no such goddess named Eostre inGermanic and Anglo-Saxon cultures. Outside of Bede there is no record or mention of Eostre.In fact, research also shows that there is no such festival in March or April, and thatAnglo-Saxon months were never named after deities (unlike the days of the week).

So where did the name Easter come from? One theory is that the Latin phrase in albis(“in white”), a reference to Easter week, crept into the Germanic language as eostarum, or“dawn.” Another theory suggests that Eosturmonath simply meant “the month of openings,”or “month of beginnings,” which makes sense because it is the month of early spring.

Thus, Christians in ancient Anglo-Saxon and Germanic areas called their Passover holidayEaster because it occurred around the time of Eosturmonath, and not because it was a paganholiday renamed the Christian Pascha.

I pray that this spring will bring all of the Tico shipmates a time of renewal and hope aswe leave behind the winter months.

For a more detailed explanation, please see Christianity Today, “Was Easter Borrowedfrom a Pagan Holiday?,” April 2009.

NEW ORLEANS! SEE THE CITY!

New Orleans Guest SpeakerCommander Robert S. Sullivan, USN (Ret)

Bob Sullivan is a 35-year Navy veteran. He hasserved in both enlisted and officer ranks in a varietyof operator, technician, manager, administrativeand executive leadership positions throughout hiscareer. He originally hails from New Jersey andgraduated from Miami Norland Senior HighSchool. He enlisted in the Navy in 1977 andattended basic training at Recruit TrainingCommand, Orlando, FL. He was advanced toChief Petty Officer in 1986 and earned his ESWSonboard USS TICONDEROGA (CG-47) in 1987.He was commissioned an Ensign through the Limited Duty Officer program, in1991 and qualified as SWO in 1995. He earned his Bachelor of Science fromExcelsior College.Sea duty assignments include Sonarman, USS PHARRIS (FF 1094); SonarTechnician, USS LEFTWICH (DD 984); Leading CPO, USS TICONDEROGA(CG 47); EMO, USS VALLEY FORGE (CG 50); ACOS Materiel (N41),Commander CARRIER GROUP TWO; EMO, USS VELLA GULF (CG 72) wherehe qualified TAO, CSMO, USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71); andcommissioning CSO, USS GEORGE H. W. BUSH (CVN 77).

Assignment ashore include Instructor, Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center,New Haven, CT; Combat Systems and Senior Surveyor, Naval Safety CenterNorfolk, VA; N4, Fleet Information Warfare Center Norfolk, VA; Officer in-Charge, Program Mangers Representative Norfolk, VA; and commissioningCommanding Officer, Center for Surface Combat Systems Unit Great Lakes. Helast served as Executive Officer, Naval Station Great Lakes. Commander Sullivanis published in five Fathom and 13 Ship’s Safety Bulletin articles.

Commander Sullivan’s personal decorations include the Legion of Merit,Meritorious Service Medal (3), Navy Commendation Medal (5), Navy AchievementMedal (3), Good Conduct Medal (5), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (9) andvarious campaign and service citations.

Bob is a Vice President with Carroll Communications.

USS TICONDEROGA VETERANS’ “ALL HANDS” PROJECTSIt is time for a review/reminder of the three “ALL HANDS” projects that areunderway.FIRST we have our letter writing requesting a new ship be named USSTICONDEROGA. Sample letters to the Secretary of the Navy and to yourSenator or Representative were in the January 2018 newsletter and a digitalcopy is available at a link on the main page of the website. After writing yourletter you are encouraged to get your children, relatives and friends to writeone. Since you can get the letter digitally you can make the necessary changesand just send to them or print out for them to sign. Quantity is very importantin this effort. We are grateful to Jack Overman who forwarded us a copy ofa letter from the Secretary of the Navy to his State Representative thankinghim for his letter on behalf of Jack regarding the naming of a new USSTICONDEROGA. MEMBERS, PLEASE TAKE TIME TO WRITETHESE LETTERS.SECOND, in the October 2017 newsletter on pages 10 and 11 we had we hadan article on the Mississippi Maritime Museum and information ofMembership and how to make donations. The museum will showcase CG-47memorabilia and will definitely need donations from our membership and ourfriends. SEE WEBSITE MAIN PAGE & BECOME A MEMBER.THIRD, the October 2017 newsletter also tried to start work on gettingDivision Rosters established as all the data we have from the NationalArchives in by Name and Rate with no Division Data. The work listed onpage 5 of the newsletter was to lead to a database that would help us withrecruiting efforts. Unfortunately that request for volunteers (there is a lot oftyping to do) did not get any. That led our interim treasurer, GeorgePassantino, to put the following in his article on page 30 of the January 2018newsletter:To enhance our membership we are outsourcing a Data Entry effort todigitalize some of our ship records to assist in locating former shipmates. Wehave reams of shipmate data that needs to be condensed and digitalized whereit can be helpful in finding contact information of our many shipmates. Tohelp to offset the cost of this outsourcing, donations are requested and shouldbe referenced as “Data Entry – Shipmate Locator”. [SEE NEXT PAGE IN THISNEWSLETTER] Thank you for your continued support of the ASSOCIATIONand our opportunities to grow.

DIVISION ROSTERS AN “ALL HANDS” EFFORTEd Trotter, Membership Chairman

If you have been to a reunion you will see us around the table full of Cruise Books lookingat pictures of our division shipmates and trying to remember their names. As your newMembership Chairman I want to provide you that information and also use it to recruit newmembers. It will take all hands (after WWII) to do this. Each Division will be responsiblefor developing their Roster.

I have a list of almost 17,000 names (an EXCEL Database) of people who were on the shipfrom 1957-1973. There is no Division information but 75% of the entries do have a firstname listed and the 60 and 61 books show the hometown of the crew. I have 14 Cruise Bookswith Division information but no first names. I need to get Division representatives to takethe Cruise Book data and match it to what is in the EXCEL Database and add names that arein the Cruise Book but not the Database.

Here is the Plan:Get one or more volunteers to coordinate a Divisions work

(email me at [email protected] if you want to be a coordinator for your division)They will need people to:

a. Take the copy of the Division Cruise Book Data and enter it into the Database.• This can be done by Division Members or members can make a donation

to the Membership Fund and I will hire someone to do this work.b. Take the results and see if anyone can add a first name or where they think a

shipmate was from or lives or information on his death.c. Give the updated list to Division shipmates who will volunteer to search

WhitePages.com to see if they can find an address and phone number for thoseon the list. (White Pages charges $10.00 a month to do this.)

d. Give this list of phone numbers to Division volunteers to call to tell about the As-sociation. A script will be provided to callers to use.

After all is done a Division Roster of Name, Rate/rank and years on board will beprovided each Division Member.

Historical Note: The EPDOPAC roster records from which the Excel Database was copiedare on microfilm. We only printed out half of the files (not great print quality). With thetechnology that exists today these microfilm rolls can be copied to DVDs and we would havethe complete database in a form that is more easily read/copied. This will take funds so letour leadership know if you think we need to do this. There are also personnelreceipts/transfers info on the microfilm rolls as well as the rosters and none of this informationwas printed.

WE NEED YOUR HELP

CARRIER STORE ITEMS ORDER FORM:NO ITEM PRIC QTY PRICE17 Ceramic Coffee Mug w/Logo & Tiger $12 + $9 Parcel Post

$12 + $11 Priority/Track#

18 Ball Caps–CVA‐14, CVS‐14S, CG‐47 $20 includes shipping+$2.25 for CV/CVS Scrambled

19 USS TICONDEROGA Warship Pictorial Book $20 includes shipping

20

Blue Polo Shirt ‐ S, XL

Black Polo Shirts NLA

Gray Polo Shirts‐M,L,XL

CVA ATTACK CARRIER

$29 includes shippingTICO TIGER LOGO

NEW CV&CG LOGOBlue Polo Shirts – 2XBlack Polo Shirts – 2XGray Polo Shirts‐2X,3X

CVA ATTACK CARRIER$31 includes shippingTICO TIGER LOGO

NEW CV&CG LOGO

21Gray Tee Shirts ‐ S,M,L,XL CV/CVA/CVS/CG $20 includes shippingGray Tee Shirts ‐ NLA CV/CVA/CVS/CG $22 includes shippingBlack Tee Shirts ‐ XL TICO TIGER LOGO $20 includes shippingBlack Tee Shirts – NLA TICO TIGER LOGO $22 includes shipping

22Round TICO Patch (5 inches) $11 includes shipping

TICO Tiger patch $11 includes shipping

One Inch Round Lapel / Hat Pin $6 includes shipping

23 Carrier Holiday Ornaments Colors:BLUE $10 for 1 $18 for 2

$24 for 3 Includes ShippingREDGREEN

24 40th REUNION Commemorative booklet $10 plus $5 shipping

PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE!FOR ITEMS 17-24 ORDER AS FOLLOWS:CHECKS: (if you are not ordering using PAYPAL)should be made to:USS TICONDEROGA VETERANS’ ASSOCIATIONOrders should be mailed to:Arthur Casello1737 Hoyt Ave. E. St. Paul, MN. 55106Email: [email protected] you have an e‐mail address,it is suggested that you include it here:_________________________and your phone number here:________________________________in case we have to contact you for some reason or send you a tracking #PLEASE check availability of products & SEE images of these items onthe “Carrier Store” page at: www.bigt.net/shipsstore.html and click onthe image of the ship, OR Email [email protected]

Total:

PLEASESENDTHIS FORM ANDYOUR DUESTO:DENNIS W. SABELL - SECRETARY

P. O. BOX 3178 UNIVERSAL CITY, TX 78148-2278Make Check Payable to: USS Ticonderoga Veterans’ Association

PLEASE PRINTNAME: DIVISION:

RANK: (highest while aboard) YEARS ABOARD: to (reported ‐left)

APT. # / LOT #: SPOUSE'S NAME:

ADDRESS/ P.O. BOX:

CITY: STATE: ZIP:

Alternate Address:

Use Alternate address (Y/N) forNewslettersmailed in: Jan Ap r Jul Oct

Optional Information:If the information below is provided you will be giving permission for

This information to be shared with other members

PHONE#: CELL#: FAX#:

E‐MAIL ADDRESS: @

Dues Included for Period:

($20). . . Dues for Jan. ‐ Dec. 2018 ($20). . . Dues for Jan. ‐ Dec. 2022




. . . Or Lifetime Membership Amount (See Below)

Personal Gift Contributions to:

Memorial Fund

General Fund

USS CG‐47 Museum Room

USS CV‐14 Ship’s Bell Refurbishment

Data Entry Shipmate Locator

TOTAL

Please Remember: For dues or contribution, notify treasurer and secretary of any change of address.

Lifetime Membership Amounts:

Age 29 & under = $ 1,100 Age 59 & under = $ 500Age 39 & under = $ 900 Age 69 & under = $ 300Age 49 & under = $ 700 Age 70 & older = $ 100

THIS FORM CAN BEPRINTED FROMWWW.BIGT.NET

MEMBERSHIP PAGE.

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

NON-PROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 178

SALEM, OR

NEW ORLEANS, LA MAY 17 - 21, 2018CROWNE PLAZA Reservations 800-227-6963

DEADLINE FOR HOTEL RATE IS APRIL 25thReunion Registration Cut-Off Date is: APRIL 12th

The BigT Veterans’ Association of the USS TiconderogaP.O. BOX 3178UNIVERSAL CITY, TX 78148-2278

CV / CVA / CVS-14 CG-47 April 2018 The USS ...Universal City, TX 78148 Director: [email protected]...

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Transcript of CV / CVA / CVS-14 CG-47 April 2018 The USS ...Universal City, TX 78148 Director: [email protected]...