U.S. Navcommsta Londonderry Alumni Association

John J. Ryan USN(Ret), RM 72 - 76, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2014.

Phillip Wade USN(Ret), RM, 9/59 - 3/62, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2014.

A "Bravo Zulu" to both John and Phillip for their on going contribution to the success of this program.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to read more about this worthwhile effort.

February 15, 2014

TAPS

Joseph Banks USN (Ret), RM, 62 - 65, passed away February 3, 2014 in Manchester NH.

Please keep Joseph and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

SEARCHING FOR

Long Lost Family episode (ITV) on Grant Williams and Wendy O'Hagan, finally meeting her father for the first time in nearly 40 years. Grant was an ET stationed at the base in 1975, who at the time was going with Sara O'Hagan.

Link to:

In the left margin click on "Members List" to go to the web page to check this.

January 27, 2014

NEW MEMBER

Warren R. (Thumper) Frye, RM, 69 - 71

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Edward Mercer USN(Ret), RMCS, 71 - 72, passed away November 26, 2013 in Mesa AZ.

Please keep Edward and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

January 20, 2014

NEW MEMBER

Michael Scarantino, ET, 7/68 - 2/70

Welcome aboard!

NEW LINKS

"U.S. Military in Northern Ireland during WWII"

This 'Flickr' site, created by Mr Clive Moore of Belfast, provides a means to centralize images of the U.S. Military in Northern ireland during WW2.

Links are provided to the "Main Page", "U.S. Navy Page", and "U.S. Marine Corps Page".

To view these, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

January 7, 2014

NEW MEMBER

Kenneth W. 'Brownie' Brown, RM, 61 to 62

Welcome Aboard!

January 1, 2014

NEW MEMBERS

Richard J. Olson USN (Ret), RM, 10/74 - 9/76

Max L. Padgett, CYN/YN, 12/69 - 5/71

Steven ('Steve', 'dingtoo', 'too') Wallace USN (Ret), RM, 1/70 - 8/71

BINNACLE LIST

Len Kafer reports that Fred Beiner, RM, 59 - 61, had quad bypass surgery and to keep Fred in your thoughts and prayers.

A further report indicates Fred was discharged from the hospital on Christmas, everything is going well, and thanks loads for your thoughts and prayers.

Welcome aboard!

SEARCHING FOR

David Rossi, RM, 72 - 74, is trying to locate Curtis Brinkley, RM, 72 - 74 time frame, a photo of Curtis has been posted in the Old Photos section.

In the left margin click on "Searching For", details are highlighted in 'yellow".

OLD PHOTOS

Davis Rossi has submitted five photos taken during his tour.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow", and click on VIEW.

2014 MINI REUNION

Note from Len Kafer:

Subject: 2014 Mini......
Just a reminder to those who have not yet responded re attending the 2014 Mini, 7 through 11 June 2014. Pls let me know if you will attend and if you'll need a hotel room. I need to finalize the block of rooms with the hotel on 2 Jan 14. Once I finalized all with the hotel, I will then send you all the details re hotel reservations and so on.....

If anyone has suggestions re making the Mini a better event, pls feel free to make your wishes known to me.....

To those who have responded, thanks and we have enough positive responses that we will go ahead with the Mini for these dates.....

Take care all and have a Blessed holiday and New Year...... Looking forward to see many of you at the Mini !!!!!!

Leonard P. Kafer

Haydnstr 8, Top A
Salzburg Austria
E-mail: kaferleonard@yahoo.com
Cell : 0043 (0)681-8371-6868
Land-line: 0043 (0)662-872-897
Skype: leonard.kafer

December 17, 2013

TAPS

Charlie Hayes, RM 2/c, 1943 - 1944, passed away December 15, 2013 in Northampton MA.

Please keep Charlie and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

December 7, 2013

TAPS

Donald "DJ" Kring USN (Ret), RMCS, 6/60 - 7/63, passed away December 1, 2013 from a massive stroke.

Please keep Don and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

For Don's contact information or additional details, please contact Art Saraphis at: artjojo@outlook.com

November 26, 2013

NEW MEMBER

David Rossi, RM, 71 - 74.

Welcome aboard!

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

David Rossi, RM, 71 - 74, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is greatly appreciated!

November 12, 2013

NEW MEMBER

John Douglas "Rollie" Rowland, Civilian, 75 - 77.

Welcome aboard!

November 8, 2013

TAPS

Roy Seddon, Civilian, 75 - 77, passed away October 6, 2012 at age 77 in Wallingford, England.

Please keep Roy and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBER

Dave Bartholomew USN(Ret), ET, 8/63 - 11/63, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is greatly appreciated!

NEW LINKS

Submitted by Art "Ipp" Ippolito.

"Navy Personnel Command - Navy Retired Activites"

VETERANS DAY - 2013

A link to "RestaurantNews.com" titled: "Veterans Eat Free at these Restaurants on Veterans Day - 2013"

In addition, submitted by 'Ipp' - a list of of Senior Discounts offered year round by various businesses and establishments.

Finally, a link to "MilitaryConnections.com" offering Veteran and Military Deals and Discounts.

To view these, in the left margin click on 'Favorite Links', then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

November 5, 2013

BINNACLE LIST

Jack McGrail has forwarded an update on Steve Swiggum, RM 72 - 74:

"A follow up on Steve’s fight with bladder cancer. After several rounds of chemo to fight spots of cancer that appeared in other parts of his body, Steve told me that in most of those areas, he’s in remission. He’s finished his chemo and has returned home. He’s feeling well and sounded upbeat the last time we talked. No further treatments are scheduled at this time. Jack McGrail".

October 28, 2013

NEW MEMBER

Charles 'Chuck' Weigand USN(Ret), RM, 7/67 - 6/69.

Welcome Aboard!

TAPS

Dan Frazier, RM, 11/63 - 5/65, passed away October 20, 2013 at age 69 in Indianapolis IN

Please keep Dan and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

October 19, 2013

NEW MEMBER

Joe R. Stroud USN(Ret), CWO, 71 - 74.

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Maureen (McGrory) Bauschka, wife of Gordon Bauschka USN(Ret), RM, 66 - 69, passed away October 12, 2013 at age 69 in Pensacola FL

Please keep Maureen and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

October 9, 2013

TAPS

George Spaits USN(Ret), RM, 59 - 62, passed away October 7, 2013 at age 75 in Bethlehem PA.

Please keep George and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBER

Ken Baker, ETN, 64 - 66, has upgraded to life membership

Thank you, your support is greatly appreciated!

2013 REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS

A current "deja vu" photo has been added, thank you "Bobby Red".

If you have photos that you like to submit for posting, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page.

OLD PHOTOS

Helene Rizzo Foltis, wife of the late Tony Rizzo, RM, 61 - 65, has submitted fifteen photos of people at Clooney Base and from Derry.

George Galligan, RM, 63 - 65, 75 - 77, has submitted a photo of a group taken at the Embassy Ballroom in 1965.

Website viewer, Patrick McHugh, responded to a question on a photo contained in Ken Craddock's group of pictures relative to the location of a picture taken in Derry, Hoggs Folly or Holywell St?. Patrick's response and evidence to support his statement is posted below the photo in question.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow" and click on "VIEW".

500 CLUB

Gene Graeff, RM, 58 - 62, has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2013.

"Bravo Zulu" to Gene for his on-going contribution to the success of this program.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to read more about this worthwhile effort.

September 9, 2013

NEW MEMBER

Robert A Walker, RM, 63 - 65.

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Pat Deeney, Civilian Engineer - Public Works Rossdowney. 66 - 77, passed away July 31, 2013, at age 90.

Please keep Pat and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

OLD PHOTOS

Not a photo, but actually a write up that Rick Cavazos, RM, wrote for possible inclusion in the book that Capt. McKeown is currently working on.

The "write up" compliments a photo of the 1976 Base Soccer Team that John Ryan recently submitted, so it's been placed below the photo for the membership to read.

SEARCHING FOR

Damien O'Kane is seeking information on the following:

I am a resident from the town of Dungiven under the shadow of Benbradagh. I am thinking of writing an article on the facility that was on top of Benbradagh. I have been looking through your website and I think it is wonderful to see pictures of the old base in its prime. I am trying to gather as much information about this base and I was wondering if you could point me in the direction of some people who served on the base or any other documents that you might have?

Hopefully I have been clear and I look forward to your response.

Regards,
Damien

If you are able to help Damien out on his project, he may be contacted at:
damienokane@gmail.com

August 23, 2013

TAPS

Raymond J. Gilstrap, ET, 65 - 67 and 69 - 71, passed away October 23, 2012 at age 69 in CA.

Please keep Raymond and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

GOOD NEWS

Richard H. 'Russ Russell, RM, 59 - 61, has reported:
"Nine or ten months ago I asked for your prayers as I battled cancer. Last week I was informed that I am now in remission as per the doctor. Thanks to all for the thoughts and prayers. Go K C Chiefs ".

BASE HISTORY

Three aerial photos of the Rossdowney Transmitter Site from different years have been posted on the Base History web page.

If anyone can help date these photos or provide additional details, please contact the Webmaster.

OLD PHOTOS

Rick Cavazos, RM, 66-70, 75-77, provided help in identifying a number of individuals in the photos taken by Len Joslyn at the July 4, 1976 - "It's a Knockout Competition" - Base celebration. The captions have been updated and can be viewed on the Old Photos web page.

If photos exist of the other teams in competition, please submit them to the Webmaster for posting.

THE 500 CLUB

Richard Stacy, ET, 65 - 67, has again renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2013.

"Bravo Zulu" to Richard!

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to view the web page and read more on this worthwhile effort.

2013 REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS

Hotel room reservations MUST by made by TODAY, Friday, 23 August, in order to guarantee our preferred group rate.

Late Registrations are still being accepted. However, if you plan to attend, now is the time to send your form in, along with an e-mail message so we are aware of your intentions.

Questions may be sent to the Reunion committee, Dennis Kolodziej or Jim Sullivan.

August 15, 2013

NEW MEMBER

Moira Sharkey Miller, wife of the late Mike Miller, RMCS, 56 - 59 and 73-77.

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Andrew "Jim" Eggett, ET/LT, 56-59, 64-66, passed away June 13, 2013 in Westville, IL.

Alvah 'A.J.' "Tex" Holder, RM, 10/70 to 2/72, passed away July 4, 2013 in Wichita Falls, TX.

Please keep Andrew and Alvah in your thoughts and prayers.

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LIST

Moira Sharkey Miller

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides", to go to the web page, details are highlighted in yellow.

OLD PHOTOS

Amanda Joslyn Krueger, has submitted sixteen photos of her father's, Len Joslyn, RM, taken at the July 4, 1976 Celebration - "It's A Knockout Competition" held at Clooney Base. If you can help identify and/or make name corrections of anyone in the photos, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow" and click on "VIEW".

2013 REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS - FINAL REMINDERS

Hotel reservations MUST be made by 23 August in order to get our preferred group rate.

All those that have mailed in a Reunion Registration Form and were processed by the Reunion Committee have been sent by e-mail a "Reunion Confirmation Receipt" .

If you haven't received your Confirmation, please contact Dennis Kolodziej by e-mail at:

ford427@peoplepc.com

If you plan to attend the reunion in New Orleans and have not yet sent in your Registration Form and payment, "the ship is about to sail", so please get them in the mail now.

It would also be helpful to notify us by e-mail so that we can keep a lookout for your mailing.

Reunion information, printable registration forms, schedules, helpful information, and other details are posted on the Reunion webpage.

Questions may be sent to the Reunion Committee, Dennis Kolodziej or Jim Sullivan.

NEW LINK

Submitted by Art "Ipp" Ippolito.

"National Archives - Veterans Service Records"

This site provides information on requesting and researching military service records, replacing lost or damaged medals and awards, and photo holdings of the National Archives and Records Administration.

To view this, in the left margin click on 'Favorite Links', then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

July 17, 2013

NEW MEMBERS

JD Smith, RM, 5/75 - 1/77

Steven W. Abele, ETN, 3/66 - 12/67

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

John 'Jack' Butrovich III USN(Ret), LT, 68 - 70, passed away April 13, 2013 at age 80 in Corpus Christi, TX.

Please keep John and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

BINNACLE LIST

Jack McGrail advised us that Steve Swiggum, RM, 72 - 74, has been diagnosed with bladder cancer. He's received news of some further complications and is feeling a little down. He's got a long road ahead and is asking for him that everyone keep him in their prayers.

OLD PHOTOS

John J Ryan USN(Ret), RM, 10/72 - 6/76, has sent in a team photo of the U.S. Navy Football Club - Londonderry Northern Ireland April 1976 - just after defeating RAF Mildenhall, 9 -1.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow" and click on "VIEW".

"NOW" PHOTOS

In addition, John submitted photos of three of his five grandaughters, these can be viewed on the Members List web page, after his name listing.

SEARCHING FOR

Kevin McFadden is trying to locate H. L. Engleman, SC 3/c, 1942 - 1944, NOB Londonderry - Creevagh Base.

In the left margin click on "Searching For", details are highlighted in "yellow".

2013 REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS - UPDATE

We continue to receive reunion registrations daily and would like to thank all those that have responded to date.

As a reminder, please note the reunion registration deadline is July 20th.

Therefore, if you are planning on attending, now is the time to send in your registration and payment.

Likewise with making your hotel reservations.

We're looking forward to seeing you there!

June 30, 2013

TAPS

Richard Williams, RM, 61 - 64, passed away from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease June 28, 2013 in Brigantine, NJ.

Please keep Richard and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

June 25, 2013

NEW MEMBER

Randy Wayne McCarty USN(Ret), ET, 12/75 - 7/77.

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Eileen (Murray) Keenan, ex-wife of Jerry Keenan, RM, 66-67, 69-70, 75-76, passed away April 28, 2013 from cancer at age 67 in Derry.

Anna Canning, wife of the late William Canning, Civilian Gate Guard, 66 - 77, passed away June 2013 in Derry.

Andrew 'Jim' Eggett, ET, 56 - 59, 64 - 66, passed away June 13, 2013 in Westville, IL.

Please keep Eileen, Anna, Andrew, and their families, in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBER

David L. Hill USN(Ret), RM, 73 - 74, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is greatly appreciated!

BASE HISTORY

Dennis Hegdahl, ET, 72 - 74, submitted post demolition photos of the former Clooney Base.

In the left margin click on "Base History", then follow down to the bottom of web page.

As evidenced by the photos, the only remaining structure is the flagpole located near the main entrance on Limavady Road.

2013 REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS - UPDATE

The Reunion Announcement and Registration Form was sent by e-mail to the membership on May 17th. We would like to thank all those that have responded and sent their reunion registration in to date.

Please note that reunion registration deadline is July 20th.

These Reunion documents are also posted on the Reunions web page for your viewing convenience and for download.

Additional information has been posted on the 'Reunions' web page for our Tuesday evening visit to "The Irish House" for informal dinner and drinks, with local entertainment being provided, especially for us, by "The Irish House" management.

In the left margin, click on Reunions, and follow down to the yellow highlighted areas.

Specific questions may be forwarded to Reunion Organizers, Dennis Kolodziej or Jim Sullivan.

NEW LINKS

"Derry was Allies' best-kept Secret in Battle of Atlantic"

This is an intersting article published in the 10 May edition of the 'Derry Journal'.

The link was forwarded by numerous members, including Deirdre (Devine) Land, Art 'Ipp' Ippolito, Chuck Brozek, and Jan Flint.

The article addresses the historical significance of our town during World War II in the Battle of the Atlantic. It culminates with the Londonderry Royal Navy Association remembering the 100,000 seamen of all nations that lost their lives in the Battle of the Atlantic, by unveiling the statue of the International Sailor in Ebrington Square.

To view this, in the left margin click on 'Favorite Links', then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

US Navy Cruise Books

Art 'Ipp' Ippolito, RM, (56 - 61, 63 - 66), submitted a link for "US Navy Cruise Books", the largest online collection of freely accessible U.S. Navy Cruise Books.

To view this, in the left margin click on 'Favorite Links', then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

"Old Memories" - US Navy Shore Station Call Signs

Art 'Ipp' Ippolito, RM, (56 - 61, 63 - 66), submitted the following:

Subject: Old Memories Going through some junk in my bookshelf…. I found the following --- see how many you can remember……. NSS, NHY, NPN, NPO, NBA, NHB, NWP, NPM, NAM, NAA, NKW, NKA, NNI, NGR, NWC. NLK, NAA, NUB and NAU….. so then I was trying to remember one or two of them and found this page --- very interesting --- ( link posted on Favorite Links web page).

As a side note… we always thought of Washington as NSS…. But in days before our time… Navy Department (from which Navcommsta Washdc came from was NAA… the NSS belonged to Annanpolis ……. .

To view this, in the left margin click on 'Favorite Links', then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

The Irish Viet Nam Veterans Memorial Project

Submitted by Gene Graeff, RM, 58 - 62. This project was brought to his attention at a recent meeting of the Tidewater irish American Society, where Matthew Carroll gave a presentation on his organization and what their goals are.

This memorial is to be located in Ennis, County Clare, Republic of Ireland.

An article published in the May/June 2013 issue of "The VVA Veteran" titled "A Good Thing for the Irish: Honoring Those Who Served in Vietnam" details this project further.

A link to this article is posted on the Favorite Links web page.

To find out more about the Irish Viet Nam Veterans Memorial Project, or to volunteer or contribute, visit the IVNVMP Website.

Links to the VVA article and IVNVMP Website, along with contact information, are posted on the 'Favorite Links' web page, follow down to the respective item highlighted in 'yellow".

April 12, 2013

NEW MEMBER

David L. Hill USN(Ret), RM, 73 - 74.

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Helga Phifer, wife of Ronnie Phifer, CWO2, 76 - 77, passed away December 28, 2012 from cancer.

Josephine 'Josie' (Hamilton) With, wife of the late Julian F. With, RM, 68 to 69, passed away March 30, 2013.

Please keep Helga and Josie, and their families, in your thoughts and prayers.

BINNACLE LIST

Jan Reichert Flint, DT, 75 - 76, although in remission for some time, cancer has metastasized to her lungs, liver, nodes, and bones. Jan is back in chemo and gonna give it a helluva fight.

Prayers will be appreciated, she'll take all you can give.

BASE HISTORY

Seán McNicholl of Glenullin, recently inquired about the purpose of the former Dungiven Transmitter Site.

In turn, he forwarded a number of photos taken during a visit to the site on 18 March 2013.

These photos can be viewed on the "Base History" web page, in the left column click on the link, then follow down to the item highlighted in 'yellow' and click on "View".

OLD PHOTOS

David Burhans of NY, recently purchased an circa WW2 USNOB Londonderry N.I. CPO ashtray and submitted photos of the item.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

NEW LINKS

"Derry City of Culture for 2013"

Karl Nitschke, ET/WO/LT, (58-61, 61-66, 72-75), submitted a link to Belfast Telegraph.co.uk of 21 photos at various locations around town as Derry celebrates being the "City of Culture for 2013.

"Defense Finance and Accounting Service"

Art 'Ipp' Ippolito, RM, (56 - 61, 63 - 66), submitted an updated link for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service - Retired Pay Newsletter - March 2013.

The newsletter contains numerous on line tools that may be beneficial to military retirees.

"Geograph® Britain and Ireland - photograph every grid square"

John Boyda, ET, (67 - 70, 75 - 77), submitted a link to Geograph® Britain and Ireland - photograph every grid square"
The Geograph® Britain and Ireland project aims to collect geographically representative photographs and information for every square kilometre of Great Britain and Ireland.

To view these, in the left margin click on 'Favorite Links', then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

2013 REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS - ANNOUNCEMENT UPDATE

An 'Announcement' was sent out April 4th by e-mail to the membership that details information on the headquarters hotel, Schedule of Events, discounted hotel room rates, reservations instructions, along with tours and attractions.

This document is also available for viewing on the Reunions web page, under the 4 April 2013 Update, titled - "2013 New Orleans Reunion: ANNOUNCEMENT ".

The Reunion Committee is currently working on both the Member's Opener and Dinner Dance details. It is planned to have the Registration Form finalized, sent to the membership and posted on the website by early May.

In addition, selection and details of the evening visit to a local Irish pub to be announced.

Specific questions may be sent to Reunion Organizers, Dennis Kolodziej or Jim Sullivan.

We hope to see you in New Orleans!

March 16, 2013

NEW MEMBER

Steven Pfettscher, RM, 72 - 73

Welcome aboard!

LIFE MEMBER

Richard Bellemare USN(Ret), RM, 74 - 76, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is sincerely appreciated!

500 CLUB

John J. Ryan USN(Ret), RM, 72 - 76, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2013.

"Bravo Zulu" to John!

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page to read more about this worthwhile effort.

SEEKING INFORMATION

New member, Steven Pfettscher, was one of two Navy personnel injured in an off base bomb blast on 8 March 1973.

He would like to find out the name, and if possible any contact information, of the other person injured with him.

Any suggestions on how to recover this information would be greatly appreciated.

If anyone can help out, please forward information to Steve and/or the Webmaster.

2013 REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS - ANNOUNCEMENT

It's official! The Board is pleased to announce the 2013 Reunion in New Orleans, LA.

Reunion dates are September 23 - 27, 2013 and headquarters hotel is the Holiday Inn Downtown Superdome.

Details and updates will be posted on the Reunions web page along with being forwarded to the membership.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to visit the web page to view the "Who's Attending" list, details, updates, and related website links for general information.

Questions may be fielded to reunion organizers, Dennis Kolodziej or Jim Sullivan.

We hope to see you there in "The Big Easy"!

February 16, 2013

NEW MEMBERS

Thomas Michael Martin, RM, 62 - 63

Kathleen Griswold Higgins, wife of the late Robert Griswold, LT, 6/75 - 7/77

John R. (Jack) Eamigh USN(Ret), LT, 73 - 75

Welcome aboard!

BINNACLE LIST

Andy's daughter, Cheryl, has advised us that Andrew Janer, RM, 12/50 - 12/51, has been diagnosed with Alzeimer's Disease resulting in memory loss. She indicated he will not be able to attend any future reunions, but he really enjoyed the one he went to years ago.

Richard H. 'Russ' Russell, RM, 60 - 61, has been diagnosed with Lymphoma. It is non-Hodgkins and doctors say it is very very treatable. He will be taking chemo for some months. Prayers will be greatly appreciated for healing.

George Ramsden, RM, 57 - 60, has been placed in a nursing home. He may be contacted via his daughter's e-mail which is in his member's listing.

Please keep Andy, Richard, and George in your thoughts and prayers.

NEW ADDITIONS TO "DERRY BRIDES" LIST

Sarah (Nancy) McLaughlin, former wife of Raymond Gilstrap, ET, 65 to 67, 69 - 71.

Dolores McClinchey, former wife of John 'Boot' Adam, ET, 8/73 - 6/76.

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

LIFE MEMBERS

The following have upgraded to Life Membership:

Robert Faunce USN(Ret), RM 10/61 - 4/63

Alan Smith, RM, 3/67 - 9/68

Jim Hoffman USN(Ret), RM, 4/73 - 7/76

Denny 'Bear' McMahon, CYN, 9/66 - 4/68

John Barker, IC, 3/67 - 4/69

Edward Derderian, ETN, 62 - 65

Your on-going support is sincerely appreciated!

500 CLUB

Arthur Saraphis USN(Ret), SK, 61 - 62, and Joseph T. Wells, ET, 63 - 66, have renewed their committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2013.

"Bravo Zulu" to both Art and Joseph!

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

OLD PHOTOS

Richard Russell, RM, 60 - 61, has submitted twenty photos from his tour in Derry.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow" and click on "VIEW".

MEMBERSHIP VERIFICATION PROGRAM - UPDATE

We have some "optimistic" news to share with you as a result of our recent "Membership Verification Program".

We have confirmed that, YES, a slight majority of you are receiving our E-Mail messages. To date, 259 of our members responded back to us, out of a total of 481. This is a 54 percent response rate, which is an improvement, but far from desirable, over the dissapointly low 30 percent response rate for our earlier " 2013 Reunion Site Selection Survey" message. Of course, this means that we've yet to hear from 46 percent of our members regarding their membership verification. Understanding that not everyone checks their e-mail on a daily, or weekly basis (or maybe even on a monthly basis) we are looking forward to hearing from more of those members over the next few weeks.

Hopefully all are aware of the fact that for years there have been two membership listings on the Alumni Association web site: one is labeled "Members List" for active members, and another labeled "Inactive List" which is used for those members who no longer have a valid email address and thus with whom we have lost contact. It is here where non-responders to our Membership Verification program will be listed --- still members, of course, just listed as "inactive" because we are no longer able to be in touch with them. Inactive members can, of course, be easily restored to the active member listing once they reestablish contact with us. Our guiding principle is "Once a member, always a member", but it is the member's responsibility to keep in touch with us by responding to those few email surveys when requested to do so.

January 15, 2013

NEW MEMBER

Daniel H. Leonardson, ETN, 10/66 - 10/68

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

June Carpenter - reports that Artie J (Jonnie) Walker, RM, 63 - 65, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer, The family Pat & the kids could use a wave of support right now, They have all gathered to pipe him over so to speak, They are still living in Riverside CA & their mailing address is available from the Webmaster. Please keep Jonnie & Pat in your thoughts & prayers for the immediate future.

Jim Sullivan sent an e-mail late yesterday that Artie 'Jonnie' Walker USN(Ret), RM, 63-65, passed away Monday, January 14, 2013 , in California at age 80.

Please keep Artie and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

USNCS LONDONDERRY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS FOR 2012

The following students from the North West Regional College, Strand Road, Derry, were recognized in October as selectees for the USNCS Londonderry Alumni Association Scholarship for 2012.

Adam Hurrell, in Level 3 Extended Diploma for IT Practioners

Breandan O'Hara, in Level 3 Extended Diploma for IT Practioners

Mark Taylor, in Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering

Olivia Wyer, in Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering

Congratulations to all!

Additional information, group and individual photos, and a link to the announcement on the NWRC Website can be found on the "500 Club" web page.

We would like to thank all those that contributed to the success of this endeavor. In closing, we would also like to recognize recent contributors, Richard Stacy and John J. Ryan.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

FACEBOOK

We are on "Facebook", a worldwide social networking service.

"NAVCOMMSTA Londonderry Alumni Association" has now been active on Facebook for approximately four months.

While you are on Facebook, come pay us a visit and join the group!

ANNUAL DUES

The Members List has been reset to indicate those that are current on voluntary Annual Dues for 2013.

If you believe that your dues are up to date -or- you have paid Lifetime Dues and are not properly indicated in the members List, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin click on "Members List" to go to the web page to check this.

MEMBERSHIP VERIFICATION - IMPORTANT REQUEST

Shortly, members will be receiving a separate e-mail addressing this subject. The Board asks that you respond to our request promptly, we truly need your support in this matter.

September 25, 2012

NEW MEMBERS

Robert J. Pollack, CYN, 3/68 - 3/70

Michael Andrew 'Rocky' Clark USN(Ret), RM, 71 - 74, 76 - 77

Charles R. 'Chuck' Clark, RM, 56 - 57

Clarence 'Ed' Leab USN(Ret), RM, 8/60 - 4/62

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Dan Baucher, RM2, 70's, passed away 2004 in Londonderry.

Richard M. Strong, YN3, 70's, passed away March 24, 2004 at age 51 in Lebanon, TN.

Leo G. Sangiolo USN(Ret), TMCM, 4/43 - 8/44, passed away June 21, 2011 at age 87 in San Diego, CA.

Anna T. (McGuiness) Dunn, wife of the late RMC David D. Dunn, passed away August 21, 2012 at age 77 in Virginia Beach, VA.

Robert C. Flint USN(Ret), WO1 - CWO2 / LCDR, 12/72 - 1/75, passed away September 24, 2012 at age 68 in Castleberry, FL.

Bob is the spouse of fellow member Janet (Jan) Flint (nee: Reichert), DT 75-76.

Please keep Dan, Richard, Leo, Anna, and Robert, and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

SEARCHING FOR

Jonathon Paul Price is trying to contact Terry Stubbs, RM, 1969 - 1970.

In the left margin, click on "Searching For" to go to the web page. Details are highlighted in "yellow".

OLD PHOTOS

Ted Nevels, RM, 74 - 77, submitted a photo of the US Navy Ship Yard in Derry taken in 1943.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in 'yellow" and click on VIEW.

BASE HISTORY

Michael 'Rocky' Clark, RM, 71 - 74, 76 - 77, submitted a photo taken during the demolition of Sampson Hall.

In the left margin click on "Base History", then follow down to the bottom of the web page.

ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LIST

Avril Josephine Lappin, Mrs Bob Faunce, RM 61 - 63.

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in 'yellow'.

THE 500 CLUB - UPDATE

We are happy to report we had a fantastic response to our earlier request for donations for this year's Derry Scholarship Fund, resulting in not only an ability to fully fund this year's scholarships, but to fully fund the 2013 scholarships, as well. I want to thank all of you who participated in this fund raising effort, and also pass along the gratitude of the North West Regional Collage administration, as well. They were overjoyed to receive this news. Bravo Zulu!

FACEBOOK

We can now be found on Facebook, a worldwide social networking service, at "NAVCOMMSTA Londonderry Alumni Association".

While you are on Facebook, come pay us a visit and join the group!

April 17, 2012

BASE HISTORY

A number of Ordnance Survey Map plats, along with "Google Earth" Satellite Images of the former Clooney Base, Receiver Site and Antenna Farm have been posted to show the progression of the subdivision expansion and house construction where the receiving antennas once stood.

In the left margin click on "Base History" to go to the web page. The map plats and photos are found at the bottom of the page.

LONDONDERRY SENTINEL ARTICLE ON CLOONEY BASE TRANSITION TO THE NEW HOME OF 'FOYLE AND LONDONDERRY COLLEGE'

A news article written by Olga Bradshaw and titled "Vital to the 'war effort' Clooney is key to education infrastructure" was published in the 1 March 2012 issue of the Londonderry Sentinel.

The article reports the historical significance from WWII until 1977 as a US Naval Communications Station, plans for the site to be the new home of Foyle and Londonderry College, an interview with our Association Historian Jerry Keenan, the recent base visit by Association members and their families during the 2011 Derry Reunion, and that 'Foyle' are considering a permanent feature being created commemorating their association with the former base.

Link to Londonderry Sentinel News article:

Vital to the ‘war effort’ Clooney is key to education infrastructure

OLD PHOTOS

Bob Martin, YN, 71 - 72, was able to identify the remaining individuals in the third group of photos recently submitted by John Sadler.

These photos can be viewed in the Old Photos section.

Tom Conrad, PN, 72 - 74, submitted fifteen photos, various documents, and Special Services Bulletins from his time in Derry.

They are posted in two groups. The first group contains various photos taken in various locations, a 1972 All Star Game Program Guide, Ration Card, Change of Command Ceremony pamphlet, Admin Office photos, and photos of the Slieveanorra microwave relay site. The second group posted contains six issues of Special Services Bulletins, circa 1973.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the items highlighted in "yellow" and click on VIEW.

US NRS/NCS THURSO SCOTLAND REUNION IN NORFOLK VA - CANCELLED

A notice cancelling the reunion scheduled for 5 May 2012 at the Hilton Norfolk Airport Hotel has been posted on their Facebook page.

Visit the "NAVCOMMSTA THURSO SCOTLAND UK" Facebook page for further details and any updates.

Note: a Facebook account is required in order to log in and visit their 'page'.

April 1, 2012

TAPS

Jean Rush Coulter, former wife of Chuck Harrington, ET, 70's, passed away in Derry, July 2003 at age 55.

Please keep Jean and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

OLD PHOTOS

Ron McKenzie, RM, 70 - 71, was able to identify a couple individuals in the third group of photos recently submitted by John Sadler.

These photos can be viewed in the Old Photos section.

SEARCHING FOR

Daniel 'Speedy' Carlin, Civilian, 69 - 74, is looking to contact Milton (Jonesey) Jones. He was on the base for a short time between 1969 and 1972. He was then transferred to Newquay in Cornwall, England.

In the left margin, click on "Searching For" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

THE "500" CLUB - APPEAL UPDATE

We can advise that we've had an overwhelming response to our request for scholarship funds and will continue to accept donations until the end of April as previously announced, with a goal of fully funding both this year and 2013.

"On behalf of your Board of Directors I would like to express our deepest gratitude to all those members who stood up and answered our call for donations for our Association's Derry Scholarship Fund. Your overwhelming response speaks volumes about the generosity of our Alumni Association, and speaks well of your desire to give something back to Derry and its people. To those who've already contributed, as well as to those whose check is in the mail, I want to say I've never been more proud to be a part of this, OUR Alumni Association. Bravo Zulu! "

Jim Sullivan, President, USNLAA

March 26, 2012

TAPS

Norman 'Doe' Upton USN(Ret), RM, 62 - 63 and 69 - 71, passed away at home in Madison WI, March 9, 2012 at age 69.

Mary Brandon Webster, former wife of the late Mike Harlan, RM, 69 - 71 and 75 - 77, passed away November 29, 2011 at age 62.

Please keep Norman and Mary and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

OLD PHOTOS

John Sadler, RM, 71 - 72, submitted 42 photos from his time in Derry. There are two groups of (13) and (16) photos taken during the wedding ceremony, and a third group of (13) with a photo of his wife and daughter, then a number of his Derry shipmates.

If you can help identify any of the unknown people, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go the web page. follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow" then click on VIEW.

In addition, I received an e-mail from Sean Mc Carron who kindly identified many of the unknown locations in John Sadler's first group of 19 photos posted last July.

These photos can also be viewed in the Old Photos section.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Arthur Saraphis USN(Ret), SK, 61 - 62 has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is sincerely appreciated.

THE "500" CLUB

Joseph T. Wells, ET 63 - 66, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2012.

His contribution will be instumental in the support of this effort for 2012. "Bravo Zulu" to Jody.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to read more about this worthwhile effort.

An appeal from the USNLAA President.

Of the many accomplishments of which our Alumni Association can be
justifiably proud, I believe our providing academic scholarships for
deserving Derry students of The North West Regional College (NWRC) in
Derry would surely rank among the most satisfying.

Through the efforts of donors like you our "Derry Scholarship Program"
has awarded twenty scholarships totaling 5,000 pounds sterling to
deserving students over the past five years. Our original award
commitment with NWRC was for three years (2007-2009), following which
it was extended for an additional two years, ending with the 2011
awards. However, at the general membership meeting held during our
Derry Reunion last year, those in attendance expressed a desire to
continue future support of the scholarship program. Donations large
and small continued to come in this past year, for which we are most
thankful, but we find ourselves approximately $500 short of the amount
needed to fully fund the scholarships for 2012. Thus, I would ask that
you join with me in making a small donation during the month of April
which would allow the Association to continue our 2012 support of this
worthwhile effort.

NWRC has publicly stated that our award is now considered to be a
"prestigious scholarship" within NWRC and we, as members of USNLAA,
can feel justifiably proud of this designation. I would hope you would
be supportive of continuing forward with our fully funded award this
year.

Your donation can be made by check made payable to U.S. NAVCOMMSTA
Londonderry Alumni Association, or USNLAA for short, with a notation
"Scholarship Fund" and mailed to: U.S. NAVCOMMSTA Londonderry Alumni
Association, P.O. Box 108, New Boston, MI 48164-0108.

Thank you,
Jim Sullivan, President, USNLAA

March 8, 2012

TAPS

Bruce 'Buck' Barclay USN(Ret), CWO2 - LTJG/LCDR, 6/74 - 9/76, passed away December 11, 2011 at age 70.

Ronnie 'Ron' Kelley USN(Ret), RM, 12/70 - 9/72, passed away August 20, 2011 at age 66 in Oslo, Norway.

Donald Albert Bolia, Ph M, 3/44 - 10/45, passed away December 30, 1998 at age 73.

John Davis USN(Ret), RM, 63 - 67, 68 - 70, passed away February 29, 2012

Bridget (McCool) Cavazos, wife of Rick Cavazos, RM, 66 - 70, 75-77, passed away on March 2, 2012 at age 65.

Please keep Bruce, Ronnie, Donald, John, and Bridget and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY

Photos (74) submitted by Chuck Brozek of the Reunion, Clooney Base Visit, and other locations in Ireland are now posted.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page. Details for viewing are highlighted in "yellow".

OLD PHOTOS

Willi Braun USN(Ret), RM 66 - 68. has submitted two newspaper photo articles from his time in Derry.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go the web page. follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow" then click on VIEW.

Willi has also brought it to our attention that Matt Doherty, Civilian Cook who worked in the galley for many years, serving thousands of meals, is the first inductee into the Derry City Football Club Hall of Fame. To read more about this, go to the following link:

Matt Doherty - Derry City FC Hall of Fame

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Phillip Wade USN Ret, RM, 9/59 - 3/62, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is sincerely appreciated.

ANNUAL DUES

The Members List has been reset to indicate those that are current on voluntary annual dues for 2012.

If you believe that your dues are up to date -or- you have paid Lifetime Dues and are not properly indicated in the Members List, please contact the Webmaster.

THE "500" CLUB

Arthur Saraphis USN(Ret), SK, 61 - 62, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2012.

Phillip Wade USN(Ret), RM, 9/59 - 3/62, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2012.

A "Bravo Zulu" to both Art and Phillip for their on going contribution to the success of this program.

2012 MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH

A Mini Reunion is being organized by Paula and Len Kafer, RM, 58 - 61. Their e-mail is posted below for your convenience and information:

Subject: 2012 Mini Reunion.....

All Hands.....

I just received the signed contract from the hotel for our Mini this year. Here is the info.....

Dates: ETA Sunday 9-16-12, ETD Thursday 9-20-12.....

Location: Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Oceanfront, 2607 Atlantic Ave, VB, VA 23451 PH 757-491-6900, FAX 757-491-2125.....

Room rate: $99.00 + taxes, etc..... Hot breakfast is included..... Rate is good for 3 days before and after ETA and/or ETD. Cut-off date for the rate is 8-17-12, after that it is based on avail space and rates.....

Reservation: Reserve with your credit card. Mention Derry Mini Reunion to get the above rate. Call hotel direct @ 757-491-6900. Holiday Inn Central Reservations @ 1-800-465-4329. On-line @ www.hiexpressvb.com Use booking code of: DER

Cancellation: 72 hrs advance notification to avoid a cancellation fee of first nights room and tax.....

Parking: Available and included......

Check-in/Checkout: 1600 hrs and 1100 hrs.....

Hospitality Room: Spinnaker Room. Avail from 1200 hrs on Sun through through 2359 hrs Thurs..... Room cost is $75.00 per/day unless we book 15 or more rooms on a daily basis (Sun-Thurs)....... If we have to pay for the room, I will cover the cost on my credit card and later let all know how much they owe...... I will also stock the room with some munchies and drinks. We can also split these costs.... Same as we have always done.....

Planned Events: More on this later when we have an idea of how large our group will be.....

I am sure that my mailing list is not complete. Please forward this on to any that you'd like, and/or let me know their addees's and I'll add to my list and send..... I am not showing everyone's e-m addee herein due to putting them in BCC, due to possible hacking problems..... I just learned this the hard way when I was hacked couple months ago.....

Dennis, I would appreciate it if you would post this on the web-site. We did get some new attendees from your posting last year... Thanks.....

Let's hope that all have good health and can make it this year..... If you have any suggestions, comments, etc, to make our event better, please let me know..... Paula n I are looking forward to seeing all of you again. Let's make this a "GGGGGGGGGGGGGGREAT MINI !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Take care and God Bless you all,

Paula n Len (Kaf)
Leonard P. Kafer

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France

E-mail: kaferleonard@yahoo.com

Mobile: 1-828-301-3700

Ph/Fax: 331-4255-3468

Skype: leonard.kafer

December 25, 2011

To all our Association membership and friends everywhere, here's wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

November 13, 2011

TAPS

Howard Dodds USN(Ret), SF, 3/42 - 8/44, passed away June 4, 2010 at age 86 in Dearborn, MI.

Andy Melillo, RM, 57 - 61, passed away November 4, 2011 in hospital at Belfast.

William Canning, Civilian, Gate Guard, passed away October, 2, 2011 in Derry.

Please keep Howard, Andy, and William and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

October 17, 2011

NEW MEMBER

Gerard Moran, Civilian, 71 - 77

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

It has been reported that D.L. "Roy" Byford, RM, 66 - 68, passed away on September 23, 2009 at age 64.

Please keep Roy and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY

Photos are now posted of the Opening Night Member's Reception, Clooney Base Visit, Grand Gala Reception, Members Dinner Dance, and a walk across the recently opened Peace Bridge.

All efforts were made to get captions and names as accurate as possible. If you notice any requiring correction, or can help identify a person, please forward all information to the Webmaster, including which photo and the person or location you are referencing.

Thank you to all that have submitted Reunion photos. We would also welcome any additional photos for posting. Please forward them to the Webmaster, preferably in jpeg format. If you have photo prints, you may mail them to the Webmaster. Upon scanning, photos will be returned to the submitter. For questions or details, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page. Details for viewing are highlighted in "yellow".

SEARCHING FOR

Rita McLaughlin is looking for Naval personnel (Creevagh Hospital Base) or anyone that may have known Mary Norris, around 1945 - 1946. Mary lived on Balloughry Hill Road, situated near Nixon's Corner and Killea.

Derek Waller is looking for any members who might remember the other US Navy organisation that was at Lisahally Base 1945 - under the nomenclature of either "SubMisEu" or "Task Group 120.2" (or both)? Mr. Waller, a historian, has authored a paper on this subject which is posted on the Old Photos web page.

In the left margin, click on "Searching For" to go to the web page. Details are highlighted in "yellow".

August 12, 2011

NEW MEMBER

Richard James McLendon, SM, 5/68 - 5/70

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Chester (Chet) A. Murphy, CDR USN(Ret), 10/71 - 4/74, passed away July 19, 2011 in Virginia Beach, VA.

Please keep Chester and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

BINNACLE LIST

Art Saraphis reported that Don Kring USN(Ret), RM, 6/60 - 7/63, is currently hospitalized and could use prayers and best wishes from shipmates in the Alumni Association during recovery.

Don turns 80 years old this month.

Don's contact information and address are available from the Webmaster.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY

Updates and photos to be posted shortly.

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Margie Rooney - Mrs Margie Tesoriero.

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

THE 500 CLUB

Gene Graeff, RM, 58 - 62, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2011.

Rick Stacy, ET, 65 - 67, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2011.

A "Bravo Zulu" to both Gene and Rick for their on going contribution to the success of this program.

USNCS LONDONDERRY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS FOR 2011

The following students from the North West Regional College, Strand Road, Derry, were recognized and awarded at the 2011 Derry Reunion - Grand Gala Reception held at the Tower Hotel - Tyrconnell Suite Ballroom by John Reigle - President USNCSLAA and Mayor of Derry - Alderman Maurice Devenney.

Damien Barr - Majoring in Engineering

Robert Grant - Majoring in Engineering

Zara Lord - Majoring in Information Technology

Adrian Wallace - Majoring in Information Technology

Additional information, group and individual photos, and a link to the announcement on the NWRC Website can be found on the "500 Club" web page.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

July 5, 2011

NEW MEMBER

Herbert Paul Spencer, SF, 2/42 - 5/44

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Verner H. Wolf, USN(Ret), USNOB Div 5, 1941 - 1944, passed away October 1975 at age 52.

Please keep Verner and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY UPDATES

On the Reunions web page, the "ANNOUNCEMENT' containing the Schedule of Events and the "WHO'S ATTENDING" list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion have been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

CLOONEY BASE VISIT

For those that are not aware, the property has been transferred to Foyle and Londonderry College for purposes of building a new school and campus. There are no plans to re purpose any of the existing buildings, which means the site is slated for demolition. Word has just been received that this will commence shortly. The school has given us permission for a visit during our reunion. The specific day and time for the visit will be announced at the Reunion.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEWLYWEDS!

Announcing the marriage of Janet Reichert, DT 75-76, and Robert Flint, WO1-CWO2 LCDR, 12/72 - 1/75.

A photo of the bride and groom has been posted on the Members List web page.

As Jan pointed out to me, this is an Association first!

THEN AND NOW

Bob Faunce, RM 61 - 63, has submitted a NOW photo of Avril and himself.

This photo can also be viewed on the Members List web page.

OLD PHOTOS

Herb Spencer, SF, 42 - 44, has submitted five photos taken during his tour in Londonderry. Herb's job was chauffeur for the Commanding Officer and Commodore of the NOB.

John Sadler, RM, 71-72, has submitted nineteen photos taken during his tour.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

NEW LINKS

"The Second World War in Northern Ireland"

Andy's website contains a wealth of historical information, then and now photos, and other documentation on circa WW2 Allied Military bases, including USAAF, RAF, RN, and Army units located in Northern Ireland.

"Reflections of Ireland"

Ed McBride's radio show, "Reflections of Ireland", "Maryland's longest running-radio program of traditional Irish music, news, and sports" can now be heard Sunday and Monday on WHFC 91.1 or on the Internet at their website.

To view these, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

May 13, 2011

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunions web page, the "WHO'S ATTENDING" list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

DERRY BRIDES

A recent story published in the Lifestyle section of the Derry Journal was submitted by Isobel Cassidy. It tells the story of four friends from Derry, Isobel Cassidy, Suzanne McIntyre, Sally Casey, and Daphne Mullen, being reunited after 49 years.

In the left margin click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

FAVORITE LINKS

DERRY JOURNAL - EX PATS FORUM

Rosa Osuere has informed us that the Derry Journal newspaper has relaunched its Ex-Pats Forum. The forum provides a means for helping track down your Derry, Donegal, or North West roots, or if you just want to catch up on old times. The link to the Derry Journal website is posted on the "Favorite Links" webpage. When you get to the Derry Journal website, there is a box in the upper right of the page that you can click on to get to the forum.

YOU TUBE

The former Dungiven Transmitter Site makes YOU TUBE, some very nice video footage of the "Mountain", with music to accompany it . This link was submitted by Bill Cowan, RM, 70 - 72.

In the left margin, click on "Favorite Links" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

April 18, 2011

NEW MEMBERS

John L. Rector, RM, 8/72 - 4/75

Gerald "Rob" Roberts, RM, 68 - 69

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Dennis Salzer has informed us that Richard "Dick" Newcity, ETCM USN(Ret), 70 - 74, had passed away January 14, 2011 at age 72.

Richard's obituary is posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Richard and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunions web page, the "WHO'S ATTENDING" list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

OLD PHOTO / SEARCHING FOR - N.O.B. ERA

A photo of F1/c William "Billy" Duduk taken somewhere in Derry in approximately 1944 has been submitted by Joe Duduk-Farren.

If anyone can identify either the location or the wee girl standing next to the pram, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow and click on "VIEW".

April 14, 2011

TAPS

Liz Chatham has informed us that Agnes Fitzpatrick, wife of the late Bobby Fitzpatrick, Civilian employee, passed away today April 14, 2011 from cancer.

A photo of Agnes and Bobby, along with son Leo's e-mail address are posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Agnes and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

Dennis Salzer has informed us that Richard "Dick" Dionne, ETN, 72 - 76, had passed away April 19, 2010 from Parkinson's Disease at age 61.

A recent photo of Dick and his obituary are posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Dick and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunions web page, the "WHO'S ATTENDING" list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

THEN AND NOW PHOTOS

Bill Scudder, RM, 65-69, has submitted "Then and Now" photos of himself.

These can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" then follow down to the respective item highlighted in "yellow"..

OLD PHOTOS

Bill Scudder has submitted photos of his re-enlistment ceremony and a group photo of re-enlistees from Nov 1967.

These can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Old Photos", then follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

April 8, 2011

NEW MEMBER

David Chase USN(Ret), RM, 12/68 - 12/70

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Art "Ippy" Ippolito has informed us that Joyce Graham, wife of the late Donald Graham LT/LCDR (61 - 63), passed away April 6, 2011.

The Graham's family photo and Joyce's obituary are posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Joyce and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunions web page, the "WHO'S ATTENDING" list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

500 CLUB

Joseph T. Wells, ET, (63 - 66), has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2011.

His contribution will be instrumental in the support of this effort for 2011. "Bravo Zulu" to Jody.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to read more about this worthwhile effort.

April 1, 2011

NEW MEMBERS

Edward Fahey USN(Ret), RM, 51 - 53

William "Bill" Scudder USN(Ret), RM, 12/65 - 12/69

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Eric Montgomery has informed us that Wilfred O. "Bud" Hansen, PFC-USMC (43 - 44), passed away March 25, 2011.

Bud's Obituary and a Memorial link created by Eric is posted in the Taps section.

After serving 23 months of service in Derry, the Detachment returned to Quantico VA, Bud then received orders to the 4th Marine Division and shortly thereafter the island of Iwo Jima.

Please keep Bud and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Bruce Kelsey via Roger Weimer and Jim Sullivan has informed us that Peter Pryor, RM (62 - 65) passed away on March 30, 2011.

Pete was married to the late Helen Mullin Pryor. A photo of their wedding party along with a recent photo have been posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Peter and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

OLD PHOTO

Paul Leonard, RM, 59 - 62, has submitted a photo of the Londonderry/London All Stars Softball Team.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

A MESSAGE OF THANKS

Jim Sayers would like to express his gratitude for getting his request to the membership and to all former NCS Basketball Team players that have started to send him photos.

March 28, 2011

NEW MEMBER

Stephen A. "Steve" Kreps, RM, 10/70 - 6/71

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Cheryl L. Liebman, wife of William N. Liebman, (ET 68 - 70), passed away on February 20, 2011.

Please keep Cheryl and her family in your thoughts and prayer.

2011 BOARD OF DIRECTOR - APPOINTMENTS

As called for in the Association by-laws, the Board have voted for the following officer positions:

President - John Reigle

Vice President - Ted Nevels

Treasurer - Dennis Kolodziej

Secretary - Jim Sullivan

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunions web page, the "WHO'S ATTENDING" list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion have been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

OLD PHOTO / SEARCHING FOR - N.O.B. ERA

A photo of F2/c Stanley Welc and Hut 16 Personnel taken May 1, 1944 was submitted by Joe Duduk-Farren.

If anyone can identify the other sailors in the photo or provide additional information on Hut 16, please contact the Webmaster.

Also looking for any information on F1/c William 'Bill' Duduk. Bill was a Machinist Mate striker, and after Derry served on a Repair Ship, then Destroyers, both in the Pacific Theatre. If you have any information, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in yellow and click on VIEW.

ALL FORMER NCS BASKETBALL TEAM PLAYERS / OLD PHOTOS

Phil Wade, RM, 59 - 62, forwarded a request received from a member of the St. Galls Basketball Club - Belfast.

Below is Mr. Jim Sayers information request:

Hi Mr Wade,
My name is Jim Sayers and as a member of the St Galls Basketball Club from Belfast I had the privilege to play against the USN Derry team in Leagues and at your wonderful tournament on base during the late 1960/1975 period. I am attempting to put together a photographic record of Basketball in Northern Ireland from 1960 onwards and I have no photographs of any of the great teams/players your base provided. Many of us admired and did our best to develop our skills based on the way your teams played the game and I would like to recognise the contribution your teams made by including some photos of teams and or individual players. I think one of the successful teams had as starters Westphal,Didcot, Kruse, Wade and Trim and as I think you were the Wade on that team perhaps you can help me.

Best regards
Jim Sayers

Jim can be contacted by e-mail at: jfsayers@mac.com

In addition, Phil forwarded two photos taken of the basketball team during his tour, and would appreciate help in identifying the unknown players.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow and click on VIEW.

March 10, 2011

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Patsy Nash

Welcome!

Patsy is hoping some of the friends she knew will get in touch.

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunions web page, the "ANNOUNCEMENT" document and the "WHO'S ATTENDING" list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion have been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

OLD PHOTOS

Walt Dean, USN (Ret.), ET, 5/66 - 7/68, submitted a news clipping from the Belfast Telegraph titled "American Diary". In the item Walt's son won a writing contest sponsored by the Navy Wives Club.

This column appears to have been an on going news item. If anyone has similar clippings and would like to submit them for posting, please do.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in yellow and click on VIEW.

SEARCHING FOR

Philly Murphy Egan is looking for anyone that may either recall, knows whereabouts, or who has any contact information for Sam Gunter, RM(TE)1, 60 - 61.

In the left margin, click on "Searching For" to go to the web page. Details are highlighted in "yellow".

NEW LINKS

"RADIOMAN AUTHOR RELEASES YET A FOURTH NOVEL"

Fellow communicator, Michael Ellis, RMCS, USN(Ret), has released another Navy adventure story, titled "The Bonifacio Strait".

Links for more information on Mike Ellis' novels are posted on the "Favorite Links" web page.

"SKYPE"

Rosa "Derry" Osuere requested the link be posted as an alternate to PalTalk.

Rosa indicates many are now using Skype to chat and that the basic services are free.

To view these, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

THE 500 CLUB

Arthur Saraphis, USN (Ret.), SK, 61 - 62, has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2011.

"Bravo Zulu" to Art for his on going contribution to the success of this program..

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

February 1, 2011

NEW MEMBER

Dwight Ramey, RM, 4/62 - 10/63

Welcome aboard!

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Geraldine Stewart

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

TAPS

Bruce Thomson, USN (Ret), LCDR, 6/70 - 7/72, passed away January 18, 2011 in Virginia Beach, VA.

Please keep Bruce and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Dwight Ramey, RM, 4/62 - 10/63, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is sincerely appreciated.

ANNUAL DUES

The Members List has been reset to indicate those that are current on voluntary annual dues for 2011.

If you believe that your dues are up to date -or- you have paid Lifetime Dues and are not properly indicated in the Members List, please contact the Webmaster.

THE 500 CLUB

Phillip Wade, USN (Ret.), RM, 9/59 - 3/62, has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2011.

"Bravo Zulu" to Phillip for his on going contribution to the success of this program..

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

January 19, 2011

SAD NEWS - PRAYER REQUEST

George Ramsden [RM, 57- 60] wife, Patti, has suffered a massive stroke.

She is currently at the Hershey Medical Center - Recovery Hospital in Hershey, PA.

Please keep Patti and her family in your thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.

2011 MINI-REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH

A mini-reunion is in the planning stages by Paula and Len Kafer, RM, 58 - 61. Their e-mail is posted below for your convenience and information:

Sent: Wednesday, January 12, 2011 1:16 PM
Subject: 2011 Mini Reunion

OK Crew, here is the skinny on the 2011 Mini.....

Holiday Inn Exp
2607 Atlantic Ave
Virginia Beach, Va 23451
Sales: 757-419-3201
Front desk: 757-491-6900
Fax: 757-419-1945
My contact is the sales manager: Jenny King @ jenny.king@crestlinehotels.com

Reservations: go to www.hiexpressvb.com or call 1-757-491-6900 or 1-800-465-4329. Mention Derry Mini-Reunion when making the reservations.

The dates are 11 through 14, September 2011...... ETA is Sunday 11 Sept and ETD is Thursday 15 September......

Rates are good for three days prior/after on a first-come-first-served basis and space/room availability.....

Rooms: $99.00 + taxes per day..... Rate is also good for 3 days early/late based on first come/first served and availability basis. Cut-off date for the room reservations is 8 Aug 11. After this date it is based on space and rate available..... One free parking stop for each room is provided. Hot breakfast is also included in the room rate. 72 hour cancellation applies. Check-in/check-out 1600/1100 hrs, unless other arrangements are made by individuals.

We will have our own hospitality room located on the ground floor with access from this room to the boardwalk.....If we book 25 (100 room nights) rooms, then there is no charge for the hospitality room. If not, then we'd have to pay $75.00/day + taxes. So let's push for a great turnout and exceed the 25 rooms..... We have set aside the 25 rooms on a first-come-first-served basis. More could be available, but please reserve early to make sure you get the room and rate.....

We have decided, by popular opinion, not to have an scheduled meals/events..... Those of you who live in the greater VB area, can contact restaurants that you think the group might have an interest in. I would suggest that you do not make any agreements for the group at anyplace, but rather just have the info available and then the group can decide what they would like to do for each night, as a group or individually.....

This same idea can also hold true for any base tours, etc..... Perhaps some retired buddy in the Norfolk/VB area could arrange something on one of the bases..... Feel free to suggest whatever you'd like..... Perhaps a tour below decks of the USS Wisconsin would be of interest..... Last year Ron Spadafora took a few of us to a museum with a lot of WWII & other planes. That also is another possibility..... I'm sure that Ron would also pet together golf for anyone who wants to play....

It has been suggested that we do have some organized events. So perhaps we can arrange something each day Mon-Wed, for during the day and then for dinner. That way we can have a sign-up sheet and people can choose to attend or not.....

As Sept will be warmer than Oct, perhaps some outside events would be of interest.... Anyway, we always have time to put these and/or other events together......

Hope I didn't forget something important, but I think this about covers it for now. If you have any suggestions/comments/etc, please contact me at:

lpkafer@yahoo.com or call 1-828-301-3700 (my Int'l cell/BlackBerry)..... Paula and I plan to stay in Europe until late June or early July.....

Dennis, could you please post this on the w/s ? Tks muchooooooos

By the way, please free free to forward this e/m to those who are not herein addressed. I am sure there are many not on my mailing list.....

Keep your powder dry !!!!!!!!!!!!!

B/r's, Paula n Kaf

Leonard P. Kafer
Executive Vice President
Ozone Water Technologies, Inc.

Managing Director
International Operations

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France
Phone/Fax: 331-4255-3468
International cell phone: 1-828-301-3700
E-mail: lpkafer@yahoo.com
Skype: leonardkafer1
www.ozonewatertech.com
"OUR CUSTOMER'S SUCCESS, IS OUR SUCCESS"

January 17, 2011

NEW MEMBERS

John H. Pearson, SK, 6/55 - 9/57

James A. Dowey, ETR, 8/68 - 1/70

Welcome aboard!

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Ena Lloyd - Mrs. John Pearson

Ann Marie Travers - Mrs. James Dowey

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the webpage, details are highlighted in "yellow".

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - ANNOUNCEMENT OF HEADQUARTERS HOTEL AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS DETAILS

Your Reunion Committee is pleased to announce the selection of the Tower Hotel, Butcher St., as our 2011 Derry Reunion Headquarters Hotel.

In addition, the list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

2010 MINI-REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH

Chuck Pattinson has submitted photos taken at the Mini-Reunion.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item.

December 25, 2010

To all our Association membership and friends everywhere, here's wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

December 24, 2010

TAPS

Dave Dandino has informed us of the passing of Rick Bilbrey, EO, 75 - 77, on December 15, 1988 and of Robert 'Bob' Taber, EO, 75 - 76, on September 21, 1976, who passed away while stationed in Derry.

Please keep Rick, Bob, and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATE

On the Reunion web page, the list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the respective item highlighted in yellow.

2010 MINI-REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH

Ray Crossman and Phil Wade have submitted photos taken at the Mini-Reunion.

In addition, there is a "Who Attended" list posted on the Reunions web page.

Len Kafer, the organizer of the Mini's, has informed us of plans to hold a Mini-Reunion on an annual basis.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective items highlighted in yellow to view.

NEW LINK

"U. S. Navy Radio Communications" - This website compiled by amateur radio operator Nick England (K4NYW) contains a phenomenal wealth of photos, technical information, and other documentation on the Naval Communications System and the equipment used both on shore stations and aboard ship, back in the day. If you operated or repaired it during your time in the Navy, most likely it is there.

Check out Nick's "My Basement NAVCOMMSTA", toward the bottom of his webpage is a "Wanted" and "Puzzlers" section, trying to ID equipment, etc ... . Nick also has questions related to any deployments of the ATCU (Air Transportable Communications Unit) in Londonderry. Perhaps you may be able to help him out.

To view this, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

December 10, 2010

TAPS

Liz Chatham has informed us of the passing of Zackery 'Zack' Taylor, CYN/RM, 71 - 73 and 74 - 76, in Derry on December 8, 2010 at age 59 from cancer.

Mass will be held at Long Tower R. C. Church this Saturday morning, December 11th.

Please keep Zack and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

OLD AND NOW PHOTOS

Lonnie Massey, via his son Robert, has submitted additional Now photos of himself and of his grandchildren.

These can be viewed by going to the left margin, clicking on "Members List" to to the web page and following down to his respective listing.

Lonnie also submitted two photos of station plaques. One is the "Sea Eagle" variety, similar to the 60's style jacket patch. The other is an "Ulster Red Hand" design.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highlighted in yellow and click on VIEW.

December 2, 2010

TAPS

Jim Nugent has informed us of the passing of Monroe Schrader, ET, 5/66 - 5/68, of League City, TX on November 18, 2010 at age 66 from cancer.

Please keep Monroe and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunion web page, the list of members attending the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In addition, the list of names have now been color coded whether we processed your registration (name in blue), or to date expressed intentions to attend (name in black), but have yet to receive your registration.

We would like to thank all those that have already sent in their registration.

We would also like to thank all those that have recently contacted us by e-mail or telephone, in regards to the Reunion.

We now ask that if your name appears in "black print", kindly let us know your intentions, preferably by sending in your Registration and payment or notifying either Jim Sullivan or Dennis Kolodziej.

As always, questions or suggestions regarding the Reunion can be forwarded to Jim or myself.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The following messages has been forwarded by fellow member Arthur "Ippy" Ippolito:

Message #1:

WARNING TO VETERANS - Forwarded by Kevin Secor, VSO Liaison, Office of the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

An organization called Veterans Affairs Services (VAS) is providing benefit and general information on VA and gathering personal information on veterans. This organization is not affiliated with VA in any way. http://www.vaservices.org/us/index.html

VAS may be gaining access to military personnel through their close resemblance to the VA name and seal. Our Legal Counsel has requested that we coordinate with DoD to inform military installations, particularly mobilization sites, of this group and their lack of affiliation or endorsement by VA to provide any services.

In addition, GC requests that if you have any examples of VAS acts that violate chapter 59 of Title 38 United States Code, such as VAS employees assisting veterans in the preparation and presentation of claims for benefits, please pass any additional information to Mr.Daugherty at the address below.

Michael G. Daugherty
Staff Attorney
Department of Veterans Affairs
Office of General Counsel (022G2

Message #2:

Subject: Discontinuance of USNRMA Website

After careful consideration, the decision has been made to shut down the US Navy Radioman Association website in favor of our own USNRMA Association Page and Services provided by Navy.Togetherweserved.com - a unique Navy only website dedicated to honor the service of all Sailors who are currently serving or who formerly served in the US Navy and the US Navy Reserve. The existing USNRMA website (http://www.radioman.org) will be updated and maintained until 1 February 2011. Individuals wishing to question this decision are encouraged to submit these questions via return e-mail.

Founded in 2003 with over 1.1 million US Military members, Togetherweserved.com is a US Military heritage based organization with a primary mission to capture the service history of as many Navy Veterans as possible, in their own words and photographs, as a lasting legacy for the benefit of their families and future generations. As an additional benefit, being the largest military only website of its type, many Togetherweserved Members have reported considerable success in reconnecting with former Shipmates.

The following is an example of a Member’s Service Biography page on Navy.Togetherweserved.com:

http://navy.togetherweserved.com/usn/servlet/tws.webapp.WebApp?cmd=ShadowBoxReflectionProfile&type=Person&ID=531883

A few comments from existing Navy.Togetherweserved.com Members may also be viewed here:

http://navy.togetherweserved.com/usn/comments.html

If you are not already a Member of Togetherweserved.com, please join our US Navy Radiomen Association Page on Navy.Togetherweserved.com by clicking on the following link:

http://navy.togetherweserved.com/usn/servlet/tws.webapp.WebApp?cmd=JoinNow&InvitedBy=Association-75

I look forward to seeing you online in Togetherweserved.com soon.

Regards,

Doug Way

USNRMA

National Coordinator

Message #3:

You Can Leave The Military, But It Never Really Leaves You

Occasionally, I venture back out to a military base where I'm greeted by an imposing security guard who looks carefully at my identification card, hands it back and says, "Thank you and have a good day"". Every time I go back onto any military base of any service, it feels good to be called by my previous rank, but odd to be in civilian clothes, walking among the servicemen and servicewomen going about their duties as I once did, years ago.
The military, for all its flaws, is a comfort zone for anyone who has ever worn the uniform. It's a place where you know the rules and know they are enforced; a place where everybody is busy but not too busy to take care of business. Because there exists behind the gates of every military facility an institutional understanding of respect, order, uniformity, accountability and dedication that becomes part of your marrow and never, ever leaves you.

Personally, I miss the fact that you always knew where you stood in the military, and who you were dealing with. That's because you could read somebody's uniform from 20 feet away and know the score. Service personnel wear their careers on their sleeves, so to speak. When you approach each other, you can read their name tag, examine their rank and, if they are in dress uniform, read their ribbons and know where they've served.

I miss all those little things you take for granted when you're in the ranks, like breaking starch on a set of whites fresh from the laundry and standing in a perfectly straight line that looks like a mirror as it stretches to the endless horizon. I miss the sight of troops marching in the early morning mist, the sound of boot heels thumping in unison on the sidewalks, the bark of sergeants and the sing-song answers from the squads as they pass by in review. I miss the sound of the "PIPE" and ""All hands on deck for quarters"". I miss the smell of salty air when quarters were held at sea, or hearing the stations coming events when on a shore establishment.

To romanticize military service is to be far removed from its reality, because it's very serious business, especially in times of war. But I miss the salutes I'd throw at officers and the crisp returns as we crisscrossed our paths. I miss the smell of refueling at sea and the sounds of the waves bashing against the hulls of two ships apart by just a few yards. I even miss the hurry-up-and-wait mentality that enlisted men gripe about constantly, a masterful invention that bonded people more than they'll ever know or admit.

I miss people taking off their hats when they enter a building, speaking directly and clearly to others and never showing disrespect for rank, race, religion or gender. Mostly I miss being a small cog in a machine so complex it constantly circumnavigates the Earth and so simple it feeds everyone on time, three times a day, on the ground, in the air or at sea. Mostly, I don't know anyone who has served who regrets it, and doesn't feel a sense of pride when they pass through those gates and re-enter the world they left behind with their youth.

Face it guys [and gals], we all miss it. Whether you had one tour or a career, it shaped your life.

One Nation Under GOD.

November 9, 2010

TAPS

Carl W. Stair, ET, 3/53 - 1/56, passed away in Seaford, DE on July 29, 2009, at 81 years of age.

Please Keep Carl and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBER

David Kier USN(Ret), IC, 1971 - 1974, has upgraded to life membership. Thank you, your support is appreciated.

Charlie Typhair, RM, 57 - 60 , has upgraded to life membership. Thank you your support is appreciated.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunion web page, the list of members that are planning to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

REUNION REGISTRATION

The registration deadline of 1 November has passed and the Reunion Committee would like to thank all those that have sent in their registration form and payment.

For those that haven't, now is the time to do so.

Currently, we have about 45 members with over 100 attendees registered.

Based on the survey sent out this past summer, that leaves around 60 who responded positively, but have not yet sent in their registration or notified us.

If you responded to the survey as either "definitely or tentatively planning to attend" and your plans have changed such that you "definitely do NOT plan to attend". Kindly notify us, so that we may adjust the Attendee Headcount List.

Based on the registrations received, by the end of this month we will be placing deposits and committing to a location for our three venues. Once that is complete, based on the facility capacity we will be locked in to the maximum number of attendees.

Because of this, there will be no guarantee that tickets will be available at a later date.

In addition, as at previous reunions, there are no plans to have ticket sales at the door.

In regards to "Method of Payment", as noted on the bottom of the Registration Form, please insure that your payment check is in U.S. Dollars.

If there are any questions, please contact one of the Reunion Committee members, that is either Jim Sullivan or Dennis Kolodziej.

Don't be disappointed, now is the time to send in your request.

THE 500 CLUB

"ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE USNCS LONDONDERRY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS FOR 2010"

The North West Regional College, Strand Road, Derry, have announced the following selectees for 2010:

Donna Browne

Sian McClean

Asheline McCloskey

Mark Sheils

Donna and Mark are majoring in Engineering and Sian and Asheline are majoring in Information Technology.

Additional information, group and individual photos, and a link to the announcement on the NWRC Web site can be found on the "500 Club" Web site.

In addition, John J. Ryan USN(Ret), RM (72 - 76), has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2010.

"Bravo Zulu" to John.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page to read more about this worthwhile effort.

October 17, 2010

TAPS

Rita (Ming) Griffin, wife of John Griffin (RM, 68-70, 75-77) passed away in Derry on October 12, 2010 from cancer.

Funeral services, Mass, and burial were held on October 14th.

John's contact information is posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Rita and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATE

On the Reunion web page, the list of members that are planning to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

October 8, 2010

BINNACLE LIST

Liz Chatham sent a note that Zackery "Zack" Taylor, RM, 71-73, 74-76, has been diagnosed with metastasized cancer.

Please keep Zack and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

OLD PHOTOS

Gene Graeff, RM, 58-62, has submitted 127 pictures from various eras, a majority very old, of numerous sites around Derry.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highighted in 'yellow' then click on VIEW.

September 30, 2010

TAPS

Lavina Typhair, wife of CharlieTyphair, RM, 57-60, passed away June 18, 2010 at age 70.

Please keep Lavina and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

Peg Green, wife of Robert Green, LT, 60 - 63, passed away September 11, 2009 at age 72.

Please keep Peg and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATE

On the Reunion web page, the list of members that are planning to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

NEW WEB PAGE

If you take a look in the left column a new web page has been added, called "Inactive List".

Jim Sullivan and I have been on a campaign to locate the 156 or so members that have not kept their contact information, that is their e-mail address and/or mailing address, up to date. Those that we were able to find mailing addresses on were sent a letter re this, and we want to thank all those that promptly responded and updated their information.

To date, about 33 letters sent have been returned to the Association PO Box as "Unable to Forward".

In addition, a few members e-mail addresses bounce back as a non delivery due to being temporarily disabled, their mailbox is full, or their spam filter will not accept an e-mail from us. This will be noted if your name appears on the Inactive List and an e-mail address is listed.

Considering postage, envelopes, and address searching, this has been a somewhat time consuming and costly effort.

To update your contact information is a simple matter of submitting a new Membership Form or sending an e-mail of the changes to the Webmaster. Upon this, your name will be moved back to the active Members List.

Thank you for your support in this matter.

September 16, 2010

TAPS

Richard Dey, ET, 10/69 - 5/70, passed away March 20, 2010 at age 63.

His obituary and recent photo are posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Richard and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

2010 MINI-REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH - UPDATE

A mini-reunion is being organized by Paula and Len Kafer, RM, 58 - 61. Their e-mail is posted for your convenience and information:

Just a reminder, the reservations close on 30 Sept for our rate.....If you scroll down in the e/m you will also find the first info I sent out.....

As I mentioned earlier, Gene and his wife Lucia will host a picnic for us at their home on tuesday, 5 Oct....

For those of you not staying for all the dates, I'd keep the Tuesday picnic in mind....

Please forward this to whomever.....Tks.....

Hope to see you all soon.....

Paula n Kaf

OK Crew, here is the skinny on the Mini.....

Holiday Inn Exp
2607 Atlantic Ave
Virginia Beach, Va 23451
Sales: 757-419-3201
Front desk: 757-491-6900
Fax: 757-419-1945
My contact is the sales manager: Jenny King @ jenny.king@crestlinehotels.com

Reservations: go to www.hiexpressvb.com or call 1-757-491-6900 or 1-800-465-4329. Mention Derry Mini-Reunion when making the reservations.

3-7 Oct 10 (ETD 7th)

Rooms: $79.00 + taxes per day..... Rate is also good 3 days before and after. Cut-off date for the room reservations is 30 Sept 10. After this date it is based on space and rate available..... One free parking stop for each room is provided. Hot breakfast is also included in the room rate. 72 hour cancellation applies. Check-in/check-out 1100/1600 hrs, unless other arrangements are made by individuals.

We will have our own hospitality room located on the ground floor with access from this room to the boardwalk.....If we book 25 (100 room nights) rooms, then there is no charge for the hospitality room. If not, then we'd have to pay $75.00/day + taxes. So let's push for a great turnout and exceed the 25 rooms..... We have set aside the 25 rooms on a first-come-first-served basis. More could be available, but please reserve early to make sure you get the room and rate.....

We have decided, by popular opinion, not to have an scheduled meals/events at the hotel..... Those of you who live in the greater VB area, can contact restaurants that you think the group might have an interest in. I would suggest that you do not make any agreements for the group at anyplace, but rather just have the info available and then the group can decide what they would like to do for each night, as a group or individually.....

This same idea can also hold true for any base tours, etc..... Feel free to suggest whatever you'd like.....

Gene and Lucia Graeff have once again volunteered to have a picnic at their house..... This is so very nice and generous on their part and I am such the whole group appreciates their generosity and efforts very much.... Bravo Zulu you two !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hope I didn't forget something important, but I think this about covers it for now. If you have any suggestions/comments/etc, please contact me at:

lpkafer@yahoo.com or call 1-828-301-3700 (my Int'l cell/BlackBerry)..... Paula and I plan to stay in Europe until late June or early July.....

Dennis, could you please post this on the w/s ? Tks muchooooooos

By the way, please free free to forward this e/m to those who are not herein addressed. I am sure there are many not on my mailing list.....

Keep your powder dry !!!!!!!!!!!!!

B/r's, Paula n Kaf

Leonard P. Kafer
Executive Vice President
Ozone Water Technologies, Inc.

Managing Director
International Operations

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France
Phone/Fax: 331-4255-3468
International cell phone: 1-828-301-3700
E-mail: lpkafer@yahoo.com
Skype: leonardkafer
www.ozonewatertech.com
"OUR CUSTOMER'S SUCCESS, IS OUR SUCCESS"

MEMORIES LIST

An interesting and humorous short story was submitted by Bill Mc Cool, Civilian, 42 - 44, about life as a then teenaged Derry lad.

During this period Bill was employed as a waiter at the Springtown Base - Chief Petty Officers Club.

In the left margin, click on "Memories List" to go to the web page, then follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

August 30, 2010

NEW MEMBER

Harriet Heaney Smoak, wife of the late Luther (Buddy) Smoak, ET, 58 - 61.

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Edward F. McLarney, RM, 1947 - 1950, passed away April 6, 2007 at age 80.

Please keep Ed and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Fredrick N. Callahan, RM/LT, passed away May 25, 2007 at age 66.

His photo and prayer are posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Fred and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Harriet Heaney - Mrs Harriet Smoak.

Welcome!

In the left margin click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

LIFE MEMBER

Edward Dawson, USN (Ret), PN, Jan 72 - Jan 75, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATE

On the Reunion web page, the list of members that are planning to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

THEN AND NOW PHOTOS

Elizabeth Isobel Chatham has submitted "Then and Recent" photos of herself.

These can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the webpage, then follow down to the respective item highlighted in "yellow".

OLD PHOTOS

U.S.N.O.B. artifacts. Garland Summerall USN (Ret) and Paul Wise, RM, 63-66 and 70-75 have submitted photos of ashtrays believed to been manufactured at the NOB during its operation from 1942 - 1944. Paul received it as a recent gift from his nephew and good friend in Derry, Peter.

If anyone has further information or history on these ashtrays, or has other base related artifacts, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the webpage. Follow down to the item highlighted in "yellow", then click on VIEW.

THE 500 CLUB

Richard Stacy, USN (Ret.), ET, 65-67, has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2010.

"Bravo Zulu" to Rick.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

NEW LINK

Submitted by Arthur "Ipp" Ippolito, "Essential information for the retired community in our organization", a link to the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare' analysis of the 2010 Medicare Trustees Report.

To view this, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

August 10, 2010

NEW MEMBER

Doug Coffey, RM, 67 - 69

Welcome aboard!

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATE

On the Reunion web page, the list of members that are planning to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

2010 MINI-REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH - UPDATE

A mini-reunion is being organized by Paula and Len Kafer, RM, 58 - 61. Their e-mail is posted for your convenience and information:

Hey guys,

Just a reminder to get your reservations made.......

I know that I am missing quite a few on my e-mailing list, so please resend this to whomever..... The bigger the crew, the better.....

Take care and Paula and I are looking forward to seeing all in VB.......

Leonard P. Kafer
Executive Vice President
Ozone Water Technologies, Inc.

Managing Director
International Operations

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France
Phone/Fax: 331-4255-3468
International cell phone: 1-828-301-3700
E-mail: lpkafer@yahoo.com
Skype: leonardkafer
www.ozonewatertech.com
"OUR CUSTOMER'S SUCCESS, IS OUR SUCCESS"

OK Crew, here is the skinny on the Mini.....

Holiday Inn Exp
2607 Atlantic Ave
Virginia Beach, Va 23451
Sales: 757-419-3201
Front desk: 757-491-6900
Fax: 757-419-1945
My contact is the sales manager: Jenny King @ jenny.king@crestlinehotels.com

Reservations: go to www.hiexpressvb.com or call 1-757-491-6900 or 1-800-465-4329. Mention Derry Mini-Reunion when making the reservations.

3-7 Oct 10 (ETD 7th)

Rooms: $79.00 + taxes per day..... Rate is also good 3 days before and after. Cut-off date for the room reservations is 30 Sept 10. After this date it is based on space and rate available..... One free parking stop for each room is provided. Hot breakfast is also included in the room rate. 72 hour cancellation applies. Check-in/check-out 1100/1600 hrs, unless other arrangements are made by individuals.

We will have our own hospitality room located on the ground floor with access from this room to the boardwalk.....If we book 25 (100 room nights) rooms, then there is no charge for the hospitality room. If not, then we'd have to pay $75.00/day + taxes. So let's push for a great turnout and exceed the 25 rooms..... We have set aside the 25 rooms on a first-come-first-served basis. More could be available, but please reserve early to make sure you get the room and rate.....

We have decided, by popular opinion, not to have an scheduled meals/events at the hotel..... Those of you who live in the greater VB area, can contact restaurants that you think the group might have an interest in. I would suggest that you do not make any agreements for the group at anyplace, but rather just have the info available and then the group can decide what they would like to do for each night, as a group or individually.....

This same idea can also hold true for any base tours, etc..... Feel free to suggest whatever you'd like.....

Gene and Lucia Graeff have once again volunteered to have a picnic at their house..... This is so very nice and generous on their part and I am such the whole group appreciates their generosity and efforts very much.... Bravo Zulu you two !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hope I didn't forget something important, but I think this about covers it for now. If you have any suggestions/comments/etc, please contact me at:

lpkafer@yahoo.com or call 1-828-301-3700 (my Int'l cell/BlackBerry)..... Paula and I plan to stay in Europe until late June or early July.....

Dennis, could you please post this on the w/s ? Tks muchooooooos

By the way, please free free to forward this e/m to those who are not herein addressed. I am sure there are many not on my mailing list.....

Keep your powder dry !!!!!!!!!!!!!

B/r's, Paula n Kaf

Leonard P. Kafer
Executive Vice President
Ozone Water Technologies, Inc.

Managing Director
International Operations

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France
Phone/Fax: 331-4255-3468
International cell phone: 1-828-301-3700
E-mail: lpkafer@yahoo.com
Skype: leonardkafer
www.ozonewatertech.com
"OUR CUSTOMER'S SUCCESS, IS OUR SUCCESS"

OLD PHOTOS

To facilitate viewing (that is not having to deal with pop up ads) photos posted on the NCS Londonderry Picture Album web link are also now posted on the Old Photos webpage.

These include over 90 photos submitted by members RM Joe White from 1944 - 1946, Y Chris Paul from 1945 - 1946, and the family of TE Charles 'Hop' Hopkins from 1950 - 1953.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highighted in 'yellow' then click on VIEW.

NEW LINK - AGENT ORANGE NEWS ITEM

Willi Braun, RM, 66 - 68, has submitted a news item link to the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) Website. The news item includes an expanded list of "blue water" USN and USCG vessels that served in Vietnam on the Agent Orange Exposure List.

To view this, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

July 25, 2010

MEMBERS LIST

All members with invalid e-mail addresses are now highlighted in LAVENDER.

If so, please forward your updates to the Webmaster.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATE

We have started to receive registrations, thank you to those members that have sent them in.

On the Reunion web page, the list of members that are planning to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

OLD PHOTOS

Lonnie Massey, Civ., 62 - 72, has submitted fourteen photos from his tour in Derry and an additional recent photo.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highighted in 'yellow' then click on VIEW.

July 15, 2010

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATE

The "Reunion Announcement" and "Registration Form" are now posted on the Reunions web page.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, then follow down the page and click on "ANNOUNCEMENT" or "REGISTRATION FORM" to read or print out the respective item.

June 7, 2010

TAPS

Byron Hodgkins has reported that Jack L . Wittey, RM, 1960 - 1962, had passed away.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunion web page, the list of members that are planning to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion has been updated.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

OLD PHOTOS

Earl Russell, ET, 50 - 52, has submitted four historical postcards of Londonderry.

Rod Craven, RM, 69 - 71, has submitted twelve additional photos from his tour in Derry and three "Now" photos.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highighted in 'yellow' then click on VIEW.

May 15, 2010

NEW MEMBER

Rod Craven, RM, 69 - 71

Welcome aboard!

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Elizabeth Isobel Cassidy - Elizabeth Isobel Chatham

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

THEN AND NOW

Rod Craven, RM, 69 - 71, submitted "Then and Now" photos of himself.

These photos can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective listing.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - UPDATES

On the Reunion web page, a list of members that are planning on attending / tentatively plan to attend the 2011 Derry Reunion is available for viewing.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page and follow down to the item highlighted in yellow.

OLD PHOTOS

Rod Craven, RM, 69 - 71, has submitted eleven photos from his tour in Derry and three "Now" photos.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item highighted in 'yellow' then click on VIEW.

NEW LINK

Submitted by Arthur "Ipp" Ippolito, RM, 56 - 61, 63 - 66, a link to the U.S. Social Security Administration website.

Specific "Hot Items" can be viewed by going to the lower right hand box of the SSA Website and clicking on "More News ... "

To view this, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

May 5, 2010

NEW MEMBER

Leland John Bender USN(Ret), RM, 66 - 67

Welcome aboard!

LIFE MEMBERS

Gene Graeff USN(Ret), RM, 58 - 62, has upgraded to life membership.

Arthur Ippolito USN(Ret), RM, 56 - 61 and 63 - 66, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated.

DERRY TERMS AND PHRASES

A number of nice comments were received regarding the recent posting of the list of Derry Terms on the "Memories List".

In addition, more Derry words and phrases are contained in "The Wile BIG Derry Phrasebook" by Seamus McConnell - GP Media / Guildhall Press. The book is posted on the Springtown Camp website.

To view this, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

If you recall any Derry terms or phrases that are either not on the Memories List or in the "Phrasebook", or perhaps just memorable to you, kindly send them in and we will post them on our website.

March 29, 2010

NEW MEMBER

Josephine 'Josie' With, wife of the late Julian F. With, RM, 1968 - 1969.

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

The With family has reported the passing of Julian F. With, RM, 68 - 69, on December 29, 1989 at age 41 from cancer.

Please keep Julian and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Josephine 'Josie' Hamilton - Mrs. Josie With.

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

THE 500 CLUB

Art Saraphis USN(Ret), SK, 61 - 62, has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2010.

Congratulations are in order to Art for his ongoing contribution to the success of this program.

In the left margin, click on the "500 Club" and read more about this worthwhile effort.

MEMORIES LIST

Do you remember these "Derry Terms" ???

Submitted by Catherine 'Rene' Doran Wallis, Civilian, 64 - 68, a note of "Derry Terms" which she found among old papers, guaranteed to bring a smile to those who remember " the lingo", especially the Derry girls!

Boy, did this bring back memories for me.

In the left margin, click on "Memories List", to go to the web page, then follow down to the yellow highlighted item.

2010 MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH - UPDATE

A mini reunion is being organized by Paula and Len Kafer, RM, 58 - 61. Their e-mail is posted for your convenience and information:

OK Crew, here is the skinny on the Mini.....

Holiday Inn Exp
2607 Atlantic Ave
Virginia Beach, Va 23451
Sales: 757-419-3201
Front desk: 757-491-6900
Fax: 757-419-1945
My contact is the sales manager: Jenny King @ jenny.king@crestlinehotels.com

Reservations: go to www.hiexpressvb.com or call 1-757-491-6900 or 1-800-465-4329. Mention Derry Mini-Reunion when making the reservations.

3-7 Oct 10 (ETD 7th)

Rooms: $79.00 + taxes per day..... Rate is also good 3 days before and after. Cut-off date for the room reservations is 30 Sept 10. After this date it is based on space and rate available..... One free parking stop for each room is provided. Hot breakfast is also included in the room rate. 72 hour cancellation applies. Check-in/check-out 1100/1600 hrs, unless other arrangements are made by individuals.

We will have our own hospitality room located on the ground floor with access from this room to the boardwalk.....If we book 25 (100 room nights) rooms, then there is no charge for the hospitality room. If not, then we'd have to pay $75.00/day + taxes. So let's push for a great turnout and exceed the 25 rooms..... We have set aside the 25 rooms on a first-come-first-served basis. More could be available, but please reserve early to make sure you get the room and rate.....

We have decided, by popular opinion, not to have an scheduled meals/events at the hotel..... Those of you who live in the greater VB area, can contact restaurants that you think the group might have an interest in. I would suggest that you do not make any agreements for the group at anyplace, but rather just have the info available and then the group can decide what they would like to do for each night, as a group or individually.....

This same idea can also hold true for any base tours, etc..... Feel free to suggest whatever you'd like.....

Gene and Lucia Graeff have once again volunteered to have a picnic at their house..... This is so very nice and generous on their part and I am such the whole group appreciates their generosity and efforts very much.... Bravo Zulu you two !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hope I didn't forget something important, but I think this about covers it for now. If you have any suggestions/comments/etc, please contact me at:

lpkafer@yahoo.com or call 1-828-301-3700 (my Int'l cell/BlackBerry)..... Paula and I plan to stay in Europe until late June or early July.....

Dennis, could you please post this on the w/s ? Tks muchooooooos

By the way, please free free to forward this e/m to those who are not herein addressed. I am sure there are many not on my mailing list.....

Keep your powder dry !!!!!!!!!!!!!

B/r's, Paula n Kaf

Leonard P. Kafer
Executive Vice President
Ozone Water Technologies, Inc.

Managing Director
International Operations

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France
Phone/Fax: 331-4255-3468
International cell phone: 1-828-301-3700
E-mail: lpkafer@yahoo.com
Skype: leonardkafer
www.ozonewatertech.com
"OUR CUSTOMER'S SUCCESS, IS OUR SUCCESS"

A STATEMENT BY SECRETARY GATES ON IMPACT ON HEALTH CARE LEGISLATION ON TRICARE

For military retirees and their dependents, submitted by Art "Ipp" Ippolito:

Statement by Secretary Gates on impact on health care legislation on TRICARE

As Secretary of Defense, the health and well-being of America's men and women in uniform is my highest priority.

Our troops and their families can be re-assured that the health care reform legislation being passed by the Congress will not negatively impact the TRICARE medical insurance program, as it already meets the bill's quality and minimum benefit standards. This was clarified by a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday and is expected to be re-affirmed by the Senate.

The President and I are committed to seeing that our troops, retirees and their families will continue to receive the best quality health care.

U.S. Department of Defense
Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)

On the Web: http://www.defense.gov/releases/
Media Contact: +1 (703) 697-5131/697-5132
Public Contact: http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1

March 18, 2010

TAPS

Roger Iles has reported the passing of Reverend Canon Gordon F. Anderson, Protestant Chaplain, 71 - 77, in March 2009 at age 89.

Rev. Anderson's tributes are posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Rev. Anderson and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

BINNACLE LIST

Jan Reichert Karns has reported that Bob Flint, WO1 - CWO2, LCDR, 72 - 75, has been diagnosed with a brain tumor and is currently going radiation and chemo treatments. Please keep Bob in your thoughts and prayers.

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY

We'd like to say thanks to all that promptly responded to the recent questionaire sent to the membership. For those that haven't, it's not too late to help us plan this event by sending your reply back. Details are posted on the Reunions web page. Even if you don't plan to attend, we'd still like to hear back from you.

THEN AND NOW

Roger Iles, ET, 71 - 75, submitted a "Now" photo of himself and his wife of 40 years Gail.

Jack McGrail, RM, 72 - 76, submitted a "Now" photo of himself and fiancé Nadine.

Jan Reichert Karns, DT, 75 - 76, submitted a "Now" photo of herself.

These photos can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective listing.

NEW LINK

Submitted by Arthur "Ipp" Ippolito, a link to the Department of Veterans Affairs - Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, and Survivors - 2010 Edition.

To view this, in the left margin click on "Favorite Links" then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

March 13, 2010

NEW MEMBER

Ronald (Eggman) McKenzie USN(Ret), RM, 1/70 - 7/71

Welcome aboard!

2010 MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH - UPDATE

A mini reunion is being organized by Paula and Len Kafer, RM, 58 - 61. Their e-mail is posted for your convenience and information:

Greetings,

We have alittle issue with the SunSpree hotel..... They are remodeling and they will not have any meeting room that we can use for the hospitality room..... The best they can offer is a 2 room suite. I do not think that a 2 room suite is as nice for our group as the room was that we had in the past.....

So due to this, I am now looking for another VB hotel which can give us a good rate and a decent hospitality room. So please bear with me for awhile yet.....

Just mark you calendars for 3-7 Oct 10 and I'll send more news as soon as I can.....

Tks/br,

Kaf
Leonard P. Kafer
Executive Vice President
Ozone Water Technologies, Inc.

Managing Director
International Operations

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France
Phone/Fax: 331-4255-3468
International cell phone: 1-828-301-3700
E-mail: lpkafer@yahoo.com
Skype: leonardkafer
www.ozonewatertech.com
"OUR CUSTOMER'S SUCCESS, IS OUR SUCCESS"

A SELDOM USED VETERAN'S BENEFIT - "AID AND ATTENDANCE"

Submitted by Art "Ipp" Ippolito:

Subj: A veteran's seldom used benefit ....
.

Please pass this along to all veterans, families of veterans or individuals
with veterans in their family.
"Aid and Attendance" is an underutilized special monthly pension benefit
offered by the Veterans Administration for veterans and surviving spouses
who require in-home care or live in nursing homes.

To qualify, a veteran (includes the surviving spouse) must have served at
least 90 days of active military service, one day of which is during a
period of war, and must be discharged under conditions other than
dishonorable..

The veteran's benefit is $18,234 annually (paid monthly) and an increase to
$21,615 if a veteran has a dependent.

The surviving spouse alone is $11,715 annually.

For more information, call 1-800-827-1000 1-800-827-1000
Visit http://www.va.gov/> http://www.va.gov/ (type "Aid and Attendance"
in the search block), or contact your local VA office.
Apply on-line at http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp
http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp

NEW LINKS

For those that can or would like to ...

Karl Nitschke, 58 - 61, 61 - 66, 72 - 75, submitted a link to a site that allows one to convert plain text to CW and save it as an mp3 file.

In addition, another link has been provided to a similar website that allows text to CW conversion with adjustable speed and pitch.

To view these, in the left margin, click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the yellow highlighted item.

March 11, 2010

NEW MEMBERS

Kyme R. Scuffham, RM, 2/66 - 8/68

T. Ward Mills, ET, 11/71 - 12/74

Welcome aboard!

REUNION 2011 IN DERRY - ANNOUNCEMENT

The Reunion Committee is the initial planning stages for this event.

Membership has been sent an information questionaire to help us plan this event.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions", to go to the web page, where further details are listed.

March 7, 2010

NEW MEMBER

Lonnie Massey USMC(Ret), Civilian, FRT- 39/40 Tech Instructor and Field Engineer at both Rossdowney and Dungiven Transmitter Sites, 1962 - 1972.

Welcome aboard!

DERRY BRIDES

In memorial, Lonnie's late wife, the former Evelyn Iris Crone, has been listed on the Derry Brides page.

LIFE MEMBER

Gerald 'Jerry' Gorman, USN (Ret.) SK, 9/67 - 12/70, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is certainly appreciated.

THEN AND NOW

Lonnie Massey, Civilian, a "Now" photo of himself with three of his grandchildren.

Robert, his son, who submitted the photo indicated that his father is a youthful 91 years old.

Denny McMahon, CYN, 66 - 68, has submitted "Then and Now"photos of himself.

Jack McGrail, RM, 72-76, has submitted a "Then" photo of himself and a few of his shipmates.

These can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page, then follow down to their respective listing.

February 27, 2010

TAPS

Fellow shipmate Denny McMahon has reported the belated sad news of the passing of Darrell Danielson, RM, 1966 - 1968 in March 2004 and Robert Bolesic, ET, 1966 - 1968 on July 5, 2004.

Darrell's photo and Robert's obituary are posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Darrell, Robert, and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

CLOONEY BASE UPDATE

It has been announced in both the Derry Journal and Londonderry Sentinel newspapers that the 32 acre Clooney Base, previously owned by the Department for Social Development, has been officially handed over to Foyle and Londonderry College.

The land, at the former military base in Clooney will be transformed into a high quality educational campus. It will house new purpose built facilities for Foyle and Londonderry College and Ebrington Primary School. Building work should begin within two years. Additional details and a site plan are posted on the Foyle and Londonderry College Website..

Links to the respective newspapers are located on the "Our Favorite Links" web page under Derry/Northern Ireland Newspapers Links.

OLD PHOTOS

Via Denny McMahon, Perry Danielson submitted photos taken by his late brother, Darrell Danielson, RM, 1966 - 1968, of the Third Class Flag Football Team, League Champions for 1967.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

500 CLUB

Joseph T. Wells, ET (63 - 66) has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2010.

His contribution was instumental in the support of this effort for 2010, " Bravo Zulu" to Jody.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to read more about this worthwhile effort.

NEW LINKS

Art 'Ippy' Ippolito forward a notice from "Veteran Communicators Reunion" announcing their 2010 Reunion planned for Charleston SC, October 7 - 10, 2010. A link to the VCR website is posted.

Or additional information can be obtained by contacting Joe Garza at: dd527rm@gmail.com

Sent by Marie Moul to Byron Hodgkins, then submitted by Byron is a YouTube link titled "A Drive Around Derry City, Ireland (part one).

Part Two and other similar videos are listed under Related Videos on the YouTube page.

To view either of these, in the left margin, click on "Favorite Links" then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

AGENT ORANGE UPDATE

"Some Blue Water Navy Veterans were exposed to AO and other herbicides"..

Submitted by Art 'Ippy' Ippolito.

On the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) website there is a "News Byte" dated 02.26.10 ...

Presumptive Agent Orange Exposure for Some Navy Crews (Ck list of ships/facilities)

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) acknowledges that some "blue water" Navy veterans were exposed to Agent Orange and other herbicides while their ships operated on inland rivers of Vietnam. Proving exposure may be easier now that the VA has released a list of vessels with confirmed participation in "brown water" operations. FRA strongly encourages all Vietnam Navy veterans and retirees to review the following list. of "blue water" Navy vessels and operation dates released by the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) and is posted with this story on the News page of www.fra.org. If a veteran's service aboard one of these ships can be confirmed through their military records during the time frames specified, exposure to herbicide agents can be presumed without further proof, thus expediting the VA claims process.

If you or someone you know served aboard any of these vessels during the times indicated, a VA claim for exposure to an herbicide agent should be filed as soon as possible. To start a claim, contact your nearest VA Regional Office (a list is available at www.vba.va.gov/VBA/benefits/offices.asp) or contact Chris Slawinski at vafra@fra.org or 1-800-FRA-1924 (ext. 115).

FRA also strongly supports pending legislation (H.R. 2254 and S. 1939) that would grant presumptive status to all blue water Navy retirees and veterans exposured to herbicides, not just those who served in Vietnam's inland areas. All veterans are encouraged to visit the Action Center at www.fra.org and ask their elected officials to support these measures.

In the left margin click on "Favorite Links" then follow down to Military Related Links, "FRA" is the third one listed.

February 13, 2010

TAPS

Fellow shipmate Byron Hodgkins has reported the sad news that Leonard Franz, RM, 11/59 - 11/62, passed away February 9, 2010 at age 68 from Alzheimer's Disease.

Leonard's obituary is posted in the TAPS section.

Please keep Leonard and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

February 4, 2010

TAPS

Art 'Ippy' Ippolito has reported the sad news that Donald Graham, LT/LCDR, USN(Ret), 1961 - 1963, passed away on February 3, 2010.

Donald's obituary is posted in the TAPS section.

Please keep Donald and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

DERRY BRIDES

Bob Redmond, RM, 63 - 66, has submitted a "Then" photo of his lovely wife Belle and requested that it be posted in the Derry Brides web page.

This can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted listing.

NEWS ITEM

In addition, Bob Redmond, who listens often to the Sean Coyle show on Radio Foyle, has reported that Sean recently discovered our Association website and has mentioned it in his recent broadcasts. It appears that our website is attracting a lot of local interest in Derry and I expect that we may hear more about this in the near future.

For most of us, those that are beyond the reception range of Radio Foyle, 93.1 FM and 792 kHz AM, the digital stream can be received over the Internet. The links are posted on the "Favorite Links" web page.

In the left margin, click on "Favorite Links" to go to the web page, then follow down to "Derry/Northern Ireland Radio Station Links" and click on the Radio Foyle link.

NEW LINK

Jim Sullivan, RM, 64 - 65, has submitted a link to the virtual wall of all those lost during the Vietnam War.

In the left margin, click on "Favorite Links" to go to the web page then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

January 28, 2010

LIFE MEMBER

Raymond Crossman, RM, 57 - 60, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated.

"THEN AND NOW" PHOTOS

John Ryan, USN (Ret.), RM, 72 - 75, has submitted "Then and Now" photos, in addition to a photo of his grandaughters, Amy and Jane Ryan.

They can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective listing.

If you want your photos posted, just send them as .jpg files or mail your photos to the Webmaster. They will be promptly scanned, posted, and returned to you.

THE 500 CLUB

Phillip Wade, RM, 9/59 - 3/62, has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2010.

Congratulations are in order to Phillip for his on going contribution to the success of this program.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

January 12, 2010

NEW MEMBERS

Bill Joyner, USN (Ret.), RM, 1972 - 1974

Kim J. Kaminski, ET, 1/72 - 12/73

Welcome aboard!

SEARCHING FOR

A current E-mail address or contact information for fellow member Bob Meier, RM, 61 - 62.

If you have such information, please contact Eddie White at : sailorboy868@ec.rr.com or the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Searching For" to go to the web page. details are highlighted in "yellow".

While you are on that page, please take a look at the other entries, perhaps you could help out.

ANNUAL DUES

The Members List has been reset to indicate those that are current on voluntary Annual Dues for 2010.

If you believe that your dues are up to date -or- you have paid Lifetime Dues and are not properly indicated in the Members List, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin please click on "Members List" to go to the web page to check this.

500 CLUB

Individual photos of the four recipients for 2009 have been forwarded by the North West Regional College, along with a link to the Londonderry Sentinel newspaper article have been posted on the web page.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page to view the above and read more about this worthwhile effort.

December 25, 2009

To all our Association membership and friends everywhere, here's wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

December 13, 2009

NEW MEMBER

Daniel Frazier, RM, 11/63 - 5/65

Welcome aboard!

LIFE MEMBER

Bob Meissner, USN (Ret.), YN, Jan 75 - Jul 77, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated.

THE 500 CLUB

"ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE USNCS LONDONDERRY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS FOR 2009"

The North West Regional College, Strand Road, Derry, have announced the following selectees for 2009:

Paul Black

David Gillespie

Alan Grant

Eunan O'Neill

All four students are majoring in Engineering.

Additional information, group photo, and a link to the announcement on the NWRC Website can be found on the "500 Club" web page in the yellow highlighted area.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page to read more about this worthwhile effort.

NEW LINK

Karl Nitschke, ET/WO/LT, 58-61, 61-66, 72-75, wanted eligible retirees to be aware that there may be a Coast Guard Exchange nearby and has provided a link to their website.

There are 26 Coast Guard Exchanges located in CA, CT, AL, MA, FL, OH, NC, NJ, NY, TX, LA, VA, ME, WA, AK, HI, and Puerto Rico.

In the left margin, click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

December 6, 2009

NEW MEMBERS

Robert (Bob) Meissner, USN (Ret.), YN, Jan 75 - Jul 77

Jim Mahoney, USN (Ret.), RM, Aug 70 - Nov 73

Welcome aboard!

2010 MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH

A mini reunion is in the planning stages by Paula and Len Kafer, RM, 58 - 61. Their e-mail is posted below for your convenience and information:

Big hello to all......

It was a very sad message that came with the news of losing Virgil Mixon.....It just brings home the reality that no one knows what the morning sun will bring.....So we all need to make the best use of our time. One of the best uses, is to spend time with dear friends....To this end, we are now looking at another Mini in 2010 in Virginia Beach, at the same hotel (Holiday Inn Sun-Spree) . The hotel is under-going a $15,000,000.00 renovation. So it should be quite nice.....

I'd like an idea of how many MIGHT beable to make it.....Nothing firm at this time.....We can do 9-12 Sept for $99.00/day or 3-7 Oct for $79.00/day.....
We looked at Sept as perhaps the weather might be warmer. But then, there is only 3 weeks diff, so the lower rate of $79.00 might be better.....

In discussing this with some of the guys who have attended in the past, we think that we would not have any scheduled events this time. Some say the events are costing to much money, and I tend to agree with that. We would have a nice hospitality room and can then do whatever and go wherever we'd like.....Or order in pizza, chicken, etc......And we'd beable to bring in our goodies after getting the goodie license from the Va beverage board again.....

In the past we had a great hospitality room with the Dolphin room, but they are turning it info a hi-end suite, so that may not be cost effective for us. We'll see.....

So for now, pls let me know what dates are best for each of you and then we'll make a decision between Sept or Oct.....

I am sure my e/m list is not up to date, so pls spread the word and ask all to get back to me by the end of Nov 09.....Following tabulation of the responses, we will make a decision.....

Dennis, Could you also post this on the w/s ? Tks

As most of the people know, the Mini started as an event for those at Derry in the late 50's, but happily has grown into an event for all, no matter when they served.....SO ALL ARE VERY WELCOME.......And don't forget, we always have a very nice rendition from the "DERRY GIRLS".....Eva, you have to MAKE it this time !!!!!

Take care and keep the sun in your face and the wind at your back.....

God Bless you all & America,

Love, Paula n Kaf
Leonard P. Kafer
Executive Vice President
Ozone Water Technologies, Inc.

Managing Director
International Operations

9 Rue Burq, 75018, Paris France
Phone/Fax: 331-4255-3468
International cell phone: 1-828-301-3700
E-mail: lpkafer@yahoo.com
Skype: leonardkafer
www.ozonewatertech.com
"OUR CUSTOMER'S SUCCESS, IS OUR SUCCESS"

NEW LINKS

"www.live-radio.net", submitted by Gregory Allard, RM, 70 - 71.

This website allows one to listen to radio stations in Derry, the UK, or anywhere in the world.

Better than an R-390, with no QRM or any knobs to adjust!

"Navy Together We Served", a website for current and former serving members of the United States Navy, enabling one to connect with lost shipmates.

Originally submitted by Sherman Kinsey, RM, 75-77, somehow the link was lost, then recently resubmitted by Al "B.L." Whitehead, RM, 63-64 and 66-68.

It appears to be a great tool for finding current and eligible NST members, in addition to finding lost shipmates from just about any ship, station, your rating or even by your NEC, provided they are a member.

The "Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center" requested to be listed on our Favorite Links web page. This link contains diverse information re this subject.

In the left margin, click on "Favorite Links" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective yellow highlighted item.

October 30, 2009

2009 REUNION

Eight photos submitted by Ron Bushey have been posted and are available for viewing.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page. Follow down from the top of the page, then click on VIEW.

October 27, 2009

TAPS

It has been reported that Virgil Mixon, RM, 1/59 - 2/62, passed away on 26 October 2009. His obituary is posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Virgil and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

October 25, 2009

TAPS

It has been reported by member Ron Curry, that Curtis Joseph 'Casey' Zane, CAPT USN (Ret.), Commanding Officer, NCS Londonderry from 1965 - 1967 had passed away on October 17, 2009. His obituary and recent photo are posted in the Taps section. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery on 5 January 2010.

Please keep Capt Zane and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Art Ippolito has reported that Ronald Bahr, RM, 7/57 - 7/60, had passed away on October 2. 2009. His obituary is posted in the Taps section.

Please keep Ron and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

2009 REUNION

An additional 61 photos submitted by myself have been posted and are available for viewing.

To date, 244 Reunion photos have been submitted for viewing.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page. Follow down from the top of the page, then click on VIEW.

REUNION "DITTY"

"When The Yanks Come Into Derry" has been performed at a number of the reunions by a group of Derry Brides.

The original song lyrics were submitted by Art Saraphis, along with a second verse that Art composed.

If anyone can provide details on the origin of the first verse and the melody, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page. Follow down from the top of the page to the highlighted area to view both verses.

OLD PHOTOS

An additional 33 photos, circa 1964 - 1966, submitted by ET Ken Baker are available for viewing.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

October 16, 2009

NEW MEMBER

Gary Waldron, RM, 1/72 - 3/74

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

It has been reported by Rick Cavazos that Sam 'Robby' Roberson, RM/NC, 67 - 69 had passed away in 2005.

It was reported at the Charleston Reunion that Wayne Kohlmeyer, ET, 70 - 76, had passed away November 13, 2006 at age 57.

Please keep Sam, Wayne, and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBER

Karl Nitschke, ET/WO/LT, 58 - 66 and 72 - 75, has upgraded to life membership.

Joseph Maher, ET, 63 - 65, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

2009 REUNION

To date, over 180 photos have been submitted by:

Chuck Brozek, Ray Crossman, Bob Flint, Janet Karns, Bob Redmond, Jody Wells, and Al "B.L." Whitehead, these photos have been posted.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page. Follow down from the top of the page, then click on VIEW.

I would like to say "thank you" to those that have submitted photos.

If you have photos that you would like to have posted, please contact the Webmaster.

500 CLUB

Ron Spadafora, RM, 59 - 60, has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2009.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

FAVORITE LINKS

"RADIOMAN AUTHOR"

Fellow communicator, Michael R. Ellis, RMCS, USN(Ret), has reported releasing another novel titled "Chief Page".

Links for more information on Mike Ellis' novels are posted on the "Favorite Links" web page. In the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the highlighted item.

September 23, 2009

NEW MEMBER

Robert Brice Langley, RM, 4/70 - 11/71

Welcome aboard!

LIFE MEMBERS

Steven Moore, RM, 63-65, 73-76 has upgraded to life membership.

Raymond Kelley, RM, 74-77 has upgraded to life membership.

Mike Burns, ET, 62 - 64 has upgraded to life membership.

David Bland, RM, 62 - 64 has upgraded to life membership.

Thomas Conrad, PN, 72 - 74 has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

2009 REUNION

A current "deja vu" photo has been added, thank you "Bobby Red".

An attendee list has been posted.

Photos are currently being uploaded, however the webpage is still "in process". Therefore, some links may not be fully operational, i.e. mine.

If you have photos that you would like to have posted, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page. Follow down from the top of the page, then click on VIEW.

OLD PHOTOS

Russ Guidotti, RM, 72 - 76, has submitted four photos from his tour in Derry.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

500 CLUB

Gene Graeff, RM, 58 - 62, has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2009.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

September 13, 2009

TAPS

Bob Flewell, HM, 65 - 66, has informed us of the sad news of his wife, Ann (O'Donnell) Flewell, passing away on August 28, 2009.

Her photo and obituary are posted in the TAPS section.

Please keep Ann and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

2009 REUNION UPDATE

The "Who's Registered" has just received its eighth update.

If you want to see who's attending ...

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, details are listed under the "12 September 2009" Update.

To all those attending, have a safe trip to Charleston, and we'll see you soon!

"THEN AND NOW" PHOTOS

Joe 'Blackie' Black, RM, 63 - 64, has submitted an updated " Now" photo.

It can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page, then follow down to the respective listing.

If you want your photos posted, just send them as .jpg files or mail your photos to the Webmaster. They will be promptly scanned, posted, and returned to you.

BASE HISTORY

A correction has been submitted to Cdr. Cornett's given name. Cdr. Cornett was the XO from 1970 - 1971.

OLD PHOTOS

Earl Russell, ET, 50-52, has identified an unknown in one of Andy Janer's photos. It is HM1 Peckenpaugh, who was Team Manager of the base basketball team.

Chuck Brozek, RM, 64-68, has submitted a photo of Marie McNicholl taken during his tour in Derry.

Ron Curry, CE/LT, 65-66, has submitted some recent photos during a visit to Capt. Casey Zane shortly after his 90th birthday.

Ron indicates that Capt. Zane still smokes big cigars, his trademark when the CO in Derry.

Ron is living his retirement in Greece, voluntarily serving as TRICARE Point of Contact for US Military Retirees.

To see these updates, in the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

September 4, 2009

NEW MEMBER

Rich Manney, 1966 -1968

Welcome aboard!

LIFE MEMBER

Israel 'Rick' Cavazos, RM, 66 - 70, 75 - 77 has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

2009 REUNION UPDATE

The "Who's Registered" has just received its seventh update.

If you want to see who's attending ...

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, details are listed under the "3 September 2009" Update.

500 CLUB

Richard Stacy, ET, USN Ret (7/65 - 3/67), has renewed his committment to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2009.

John J. Ryan, RM, USN Ret. (10/72 - 6/76), has fulfilled his committment to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2009.

Congratulations are in order to both Richard and John for their contributions to the success of this program.

In the left margin click on "The 500 Club" to go to the web page and read more about this worthwhile effort.

August 5, 2009

NEW MEMBER

James F. King USN (Ret), MA, 11/74 - 6/76

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

George Spaits has reported the sad news of the passing of Charlie Hill, HM, 1960 - 1962, on August 3rd 2009 at age 73, married to Ann (Sidebottom) Hill.

It has been reported by Marion Fread, that her companion of 23 years, Thomas Behra, USN(Ret), RM, 59 - 60, has passed away on August 3rd, 2009 at the Veterans Hospital, Cleveland OH.

Please keep Charlie, Tom, and all of their families in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBER

Bob Martin, CYN/YN, 5/71 - 11/72, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

2009 REUNION - UPDATE

The "Who's Registered" name list has just received its sixth update.

If you want to see who's attending ...

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, details are listed under the "4 August 2009" Update.

If you haven't made hotel reservations or sent in your registration it's not too late, but the time to do it is now!

SEARCHING FOR

Paul Kendrix, son of the late Frank Kendrix, ETC, 1958 - 1961, would like to hear from members that knew or remember his father.

In the left margin, click on "Search For" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

CONGRATULATIONS!

Walter and Alene Dean will be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary on August 14, 2009.

An article from the Daily Republic (CA) newspaper commemorating this milestone has been posted on the Members List web page following Walter's name.

In the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page.

July 30, 2009

NEW MEMBER

John (Quig) Quigley, RM, 1962 - 1963

Welcome Aboard!

TAPS

Tom Cerafice has informed us that Luther "Buddy" Smoak, RM/ET, 1958 - 1960, passed away July 22, 2009 in Longview WA from lung cancer.

Pete Gordon has informed us that Lowell "Dave" Sterling, SH, 1969 - 1971, passed away July 23, 2009 in Blountsville, AL.

His family has informed us that Preston 'Hud' Huddleson, Rd M, 12/42 - 11/43, passed away July 9, 2009 at age 84 in Ocala, FL.

His family has informed us that Richard E. Martin, CM, 1941, passed away March 18, 2009 in Dunkirk, NY.

His family has informed us that John Wiedman, SK, 1942 - 1945, passed away December 21, 2003 in Miami, FL.

Please keep Buddy, Lowell, Preston, Richard, John and all of their families in your thoughts and prayers.

LIFE MEMBER

John J. Ryan USN (Ret), RM, 10/72 - 6/76 has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

2009 REUNION - UPDATE

The "Who's Registered" name list has just received its fifth update.

If you want to see who's attending ...

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, details are listed under the "30 July 2009" Update.

If you haven't made hotel reservations or sent in your registration it's not too late, but the time to do it is now!

E-MAIL AND MAILING ADDRESS UPDATES

Thank you to those that have sent in their recent updates.

If your information isn't current, please let us know and we will update it.

OLD PHOTO

Elizabeth Baker sent in a photo postcard of the Embassy Ballroom.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

NEW LINK

A link has been provided to "Springtown Camp - 1946 - 1967".

A site dedicated to the men, women, and children of Springtown Camp.

Many memories, photos, and videos are posted that help tell the story of the former U.S. Navy Accomodation Camp, long after WWII, as a place that Derry families used for housing.

In the left margin, click on "Favorite Links" to go to the web page then follow down to the yellow highlighted item.

July 21, 2009

NEW MEMBER

Jim "JO" Ojerholm, USN (Ret) RM, 1972 - 1975

Welcome aboard!

2009 REUNION - UPDATES AND REMINDERS

The "Who's Registered" name list has just received its third update.

If you want to see who's attending ...

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, details are listed under the "21 July 2009" Update.

If you haven't made hotel reservations or sent in your registration it's not too late, but the time to do it is now!

MEMBERS ORGANIZED GOLF TOURNAMENT

Due to minimal response on the registration forms there will be no golf tournament.

GETTING THE WORD OUT ...

A recent postal mailing to members that do not have e-mail address has been done in order to get the word out about the reunion. This was a somewhat ardous task as the member contact list had to be manually reconstructed.

By the way, this mailing did not include members that have invalid e-mail addresses. There are approximately 133 invalid e-mail addresses.

We can only make assumptions about these members, i.e. - do they still have internet access, have they moved, deceased, etc ... .

Time permitting, an attempt will be made to address this. However, we are somewhat in the same situation as this mailing list too will have to be manually reconstructed. If you are a member and reading this and you do not receive the Association e-mail updates, please check to see if your contact info posted on the Members List is current.

If not, please send us an e-mail and we will update it.

"THEN AND NOW" PHOTOS

Jim Ojerholm, RM, 72 - 75, has submitted his "Then and Now" photos.

They can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page, then follow down to their respective listing.

If you want your photos posted, just send them as .jpg files or mail your photos to the Webmaster. They will be promptly scanned, posted, and returned to you.

OLD PHOTOS

Bob Flint, WO1/CWO2/LCDR, has submitted four photos from his 1972 - 1975 tour.

One includes a recent photo of Capt. Ashurst and Bob taken in February 2009.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page. Follow down to the item in 'yellow' and click on VIEW.

July 13, 2009

NEW ADDITION TO "DERRY BRIDES" LISTING

Bernadette M. Barber - Mrs. Stephen Moore.

Welcome!

In the left margin, click on "Derry Brides" to go to the web page, details are highlighted in "yellow".

2009 REUNION UPDATES AND REMINDERS

The Registration List is now posted on the Reunions web page.

If you want to see who's attending ...

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, details are listed under the "13 July 2009" Update.

If you haven't made your hotel reservations and planning on staying at our Headquarters Hotel, the Holiday Inn Patriots Point - Charleston SC, now is the time to do so.

ATTENDEE REGISTRATION - The July 17th deadline is only a few days away.

Get your registration form and check in the mail today!

June 17, 2009

NEW MEMBER

Joseph P. (Joe) Maher, USN (Ret) ET, 2/63 - 8/65

Welcome aboard!

2009 REUNION - REMINDERS

Hotel Reservations at the Headquarters Hotel - Holiday Inn Patriots Point - Charleston, SC

For those still contemplating staying at the Headquarters Hotel, and if you haven't already done so, the Reunion Committee strongly urges you to make your reservations NOW!

The hotel has been more than willing to work with us on everything. However, please keep in mind that we are not the only group staying at the hotel. Therefore, don't dissapoint yourself, get your room reservation in today.

Re the Attendee Registration Forms: The July 17th deadline is only a month away.

For those that are planning on attending, now is the time to mail this in and out of the way.

"THEN AND NOW" PHOTOS

Clint Brown, RM, 1/62 - 7/63, and Chris Chretien, RM, 10/58 - 6/61, have submitted their "Then and Now" photos.

They can be viewed by going to the left margin, click on "Members List" to go to the web page, then follow down to their respective listing.

If you want your photos posted, just send them as .jpeg files or mail your photos to the Webmaster. They will be promptly scanned, posted and returned to you.

June 4, 2009

NEW MEMBERS

Sal Cannarella, RM, 75 - 77

John L. Rannells, RM, 1/62 - 6/64

Wilbur (Chris) Chretien, RM, 10/58 - 6/61

Leonard Clint (Charlie Brown) Brown, RM, 1/62 - 7/63

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

David D. Dunn, RMC USN (Ret.), 59 - 61, passed away May 23, 2009 at age 69 in Virginia Beach, VA.

Please keep David and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

2009 REUNION