U.S. Navcommsta Londonderry Alumni Association

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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

Members have begun to send in their Registration Forms, keep them coming!

As previously announced, the "Reunion Announcement" "Registration Form" and "Reunion Agenda" 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 "VIEW" to read or print out the respective item.

Questions?

Please contact either Jim Sullivan or Dennis Kolodziej.

 

SEARCHING FOR

Bob Reiss, MM, 4/43 - 4/44, is searching for the "R" Group from Great Lakes NSC that arrived in Derry on April 1943.

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

 

OLD PHOTOS

Bill Marschner, Y, 12/42 - 2/44, called me the other day to identify the unknown location of the Castle Tower and building in a photo contained in the exerpt from "Building the US Navy's Bases in World War II".

To read more about Bill's recollections and where the building later on was moved to.

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

Ken Baker, ET, 64 - 66 has submitted thirty seven photos of Derry, numerous places in Ireland, of people, and himself. If you can identify any of the unknowns, please contact the Webmaster.

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

 

NEW BOOK OUT

Thomas Behra, RM, 59 - 60, has advised us of a new book out titled "Radioman: An Eyewitness Account of Pearl Harbor and World War II in the Pacific", by Carol Edgemon Hipperson.

It is a biography of Ray Daves, a non commissioned officer and eyewitness to WWII taken from a series of interviews.

Tom spotted the book at his library.

Ms. Hipperson has a website: www.carolhipperson.com

Check out the website, there are a lot of photos and maps posted pertaining to the book.

This book is available now at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Borders, Macmillan, Books-A-Million, Powell's Books and other fine bookstores.

 

May 12, 2009

NEW MEMBERS

Brian J. Gess, RM, 5/71 - 8/73

Francis J. (Frank) McNeill, USN (Ret.) RM, 7/71 - 7/74

Kenneth (Ken) Baker, ET, 64 - 66

Robert L. (Bob) Reiss, MM, 4-4-43 - 10-4-44

David Rotolo, ET, 4/68 - 10/69

Carl W. Stair, ET, 3/51 - 1/56

Welcome aboard!

 

TAPS

Cindy Herold, RM / LT USNR (Ret.), 1976 - 1977, passed away Nov 8, 2000 at age 45 in Toledo OH. Her former husband, Jim Weiner, e-mail: james.weiner@sbcglobal.net.

Wallace R. Hoover, RMC USN (Ret.), 1964 - 1966, passed away January 5, 1995 at age 65 in Greensboro, NC. Mrs. Hoover survives him. His son Ray's e-mail: rhoover12@triad.rr.com

Please keep Cindy and Wallace and both their families in your thoughts and prayers.

 

LIFE MEMBERS

Edward J. Murphy, RM, Jul 1967 - Feb 1970, has upgraded to life membership.

Brian J. Gess, RM, 5/71 - 8/73, has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

 

2009 REUNION

The "Reunion Announcement" "Registration Form" and "Reunion Agenda" 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 "VIEW" to read or print out the respective item.

 

OLD PHOTOS

Ed Murphy, RM, 67 - 70, has submitted photos of people, Captain's Cup Basketball, and himself.

Frank McNeill, RM, 71 - 74, has submitted photos of his family down near Waterloo Place in Derry.

Janet Langley has submitted photos taken at the Beech Hill camp of her late father-in-law, Ralph H. Langley, PFC - USMC, 1942 - 1944. The photos include Ralph and his fellow Marines in front of the Quonset Huts at Beech Hill.

Bob Reiss, MM, 4/43 - 10/44, has submitted photos taken of a "jeep" Bob built, at Springtown of Irish orphans that were dinner guests on Christmas 1943, the Springtown chow line and Hut 214. Also the crew and ChMM Sienko at the Londonderry U.S. Navy Yard Shop 5 Machine Shop.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted items, and click on "VIEW".

 

April 24, 2009

NEW MEMBER

Edward J. 'Murph' Murphy, RM, Jul 1967 - Feb 1970.

Welcome aboard!

 

2009 REUNION - " THE SMOKING LAMP IS LIT ! "

This to let those that may be interested, please note there still are a limited number of smoking rooms available at the headquarters hotel, Holiday Inn Patriots Point - Charleston.

This has been confirmed with our event Sales Manager, Ms. Cheryl Tobias.

It is suggested that if you desire a smoking room, don't delay and make your reservation now.

If you call the hotel and there is any difficulty regarding this, please ask to speak to Cheryl. The direct phone lines to the hotel are 1-843-884-6000 or 1-800-290-4004.

As always, the remainder of the hotel rooms and other hotel areas, including the Hospitality Suite, Reception and Ballroom are smoke free.

In addition, there are smoke free rooms available too. Regardless, make your reservation now, so that you won't be dissapointed.

Details are listed below in the "Message From The President ... " or in the left margin, click on 'Reunions' to go to the webpage for further details.

 

INFO FOR MILITARY RETIREES

"Ipp" recently forwarded some bulletins from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) on Learning More About Your Retired Pay.

To make a long story short, it appears one has to be signed up to receive these monthly bulletins. To sign up for these bulletins, go to the following link:

www.dfas.mil/retiredpay/helpfullinks.html/

At the first bullet point "Retired Pay Newletter" click on Sign Up and then follow the instructions to have the newsletters and updates sent directly to your e-mail.

If you are interested in reading the e-mail that Art Ippolito forwarded to me with the DFAS info, send me an e-mail and I will then forward it to you.

 

April 18, 2009

TAPS

It has been reported by Bob Petty that his father, Robert M. Petty, CDR USN (Ret.) 1960 - 1962, passed away May 1989, at age 78, in Bradenton FL, and is buried in Arlington Cemetery.

CDR Petty was the Commanding Officer of NRF/NCS Londonderry during his tour.

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

Bob can be contacted by e-mail at: bpetty1@tampabay.rr.com

 

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Mike Williams, RM, Dec 1975 - May 1977 has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

 

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT ...

Greetings fellow members of the Navcommsta Londonderry Alumni Association:

First, I would like to indicate how happy I am to
return to service on your Alumni Association's
Board of Directors as President, and how
especially pleased I am to be once again serving
with my three fellow founders of the Alumni
Association: Dennis Kolodziej, John Reigle, and
Ted Nevels, as well as with Mike Anderson, who
has so ably served a number of tours on the Board, most recently as President.

Second, the most important item on the Board's
agenda for this year is our Reunion in
Charleston, SC, September 17th-20th, at the
Holiday Inn Patriots Point-Charleston, 250
Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464;
Telephone: 1-843-884-6000 or 1-800-290-4004.

A quick note regarding the hotel: if you haven't
made your reservations yet, we'd like to advise
you to do so as soon as possible. The hotel has
informed us that there will be another group
holding a reunion at the hotel during the
same time period. Thus, to ensure you can reserve
the room of your choice, you should make
reservations as early as possible. Remember,
should you later find out that you can't attend
the reunion, you can always cancel your reservation at no charge to you.

Finally, your Reunion Committee has been busy
working to ensure this reunion will be just as
grand as our past Alumni Association reunions. We
do hope you will make plans to join us! Look for
more information regarding reunion events, tours,
costs, etc., to be issued by the committee in the
next few weeks, along with reunion registration forms.

All the best,
Jim Sullivan, President
U.S. Navcommsta Londonderry Alumni Association

 

"DD-214 - A MOST IMPORTANT DOCUMENT"

'Ipp' recently forwarded an article printed in the Bay State Veteran Spring Issue of their newsletter written by Richard Levesque, Director, Chief Service Officer, Veterans Benefits Program, Mass. State Council, Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.

The point of the article is although that most know where the copy of their DD-214 is, the real question is does anyone else?

As Ipp related, "sooner or later everyone will shove off to their final duty station".

In order for a deceased veteran to promptly receive benefits due, your next of kin needs to produce documentation of military service, such as a DD-214 or for you older veterans, NAVPERS 553.

In order to save confusion at an untimely moment, it is recommended that your next of kin know where the original documents are, and in addition, copies should also be given to your next of kin, i.e. spouse and children.

 

PROSPECTIVE MEMBER - Mr. Bill McCool

The e-mail address entered on the Membership Form submitted is not valid.

Please contact the Webmaster directly by e-mail, so that we can get that issue resolved.

 

LINK UPDATE

Steve Caldwell submitted an update to the link for his NRS/NCS Thurso (NNJ GXH) Website.

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

 

April 2, 2009

NEW MEMBERS

Charles 'Chuck' Santini, RM, 1975 - 1977

James Duncan (Jim) Macdonald, PN, Jan 1969 - Jan 1970

Mike Williams, RM, Dec 1975 - May 1977

Welcome aboard!

 

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Montie Greene, USN (Ret), RM/LT, (7/63 - 7/66) has upgraded to life membership.

Thank you, your support is appreciated!

 

2009 REUNION IN CHARLESTON, SC

Getting the word out!

To date, reunion notices have been sent to the following military/veteran organizations:

American Legion - "The Legion"

AMVETS - American Veterans

Military.com - NOB and NCS Londonderry Unit Pages

Navy Personnel Command - "Shift Colors"

TREA - The Retired Enlisted Association

Vietnam Veterans of America - "The Veteran"

Veterans of Foreign Wars - VFW

 

Thank you Art Saraphis, USN (Ret), SK, (61 - 62), for your assistance on this.

If you are a member or aware of an organization that posts reunions, please either post the information for us or send us the contact information, and we will handle it.

Key information may include:

Organization: NavCommSta Londonderry, N. Ireland

Era: 1941 - 1977

Reunion Date: 17 - 20 September, 2009

Reunion Location: Charleston, SC

Point of contact: Dennis Kolodziej - OR - yourself

Address: USNLAA, P.O. Box 108, New Boston, MI 48164-0108

E-mail address: ford427@peoplepc.com -OR- your e-mail

Telephone: 734-753-5790 -OR- your phone number

Website URL: http://navcommsta-londonderry.freeservers.com/

When you do submit a posting to an organization, please .cc to the Webmaster, so that we are aware and that efforts are not replicated.

Thanks for your help on this!

 

THE 500 CLUB

Elizabeth Baker has fullfilled her commitment to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2009.

In addition, Joseph Wells has made yet another contribution to the Derry Scholarship Fund for 2009.

Congratulations are in order to both Elizabeth and Joe for their contributions to the success of this program.

Your contributions are most certainly welcomed by both the Association and the receipients at the North West Regional College in Derry.

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

 

OLD PHOTO

Ivor Browne, brother-in-law of Jack Johnston, SK, (41 - 44), has submitted a photo taken on a destroyer in port at Londonderry, circa January 1942.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

 

March 15, 2009

NEW MEMBER

John L. 'Larry' Wagner, CYN, 1968 - 1969.

Welcome aboard!

 

TAPS

Larry Wagner has reported that Ron Bush, RM, (69 - 70) had passed away in 2005 from complications due to cancer surgery.

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

 

2009 ELECTION AND BOARD OFFICER POSITION RESULTS

Based on nominations and voting input received from the 2009 Board officers, we are pleased to report the following:

Jim 'Sully' Sullivan - President

John Reigle - Vice President

Ted Nevels - Secretary

Dennis Kolodziej - Treasurer

Mike Anderson - Trustee

Congratulations to the new board and we would also like to say thanks to the past Board members: David Kier, Wayne 'Stretch' Rousseau, and Ron Spadafora for your work in support of the board during your time of service, it is greatly appreciated.

 

NEW ASSOCIATION MAILING ADDRESS

The new mailing address is:

U.S. NAVCOMMSTA Londonderry Alumni Association

PO Box 108

New Boston, MI 48164-0108

Please send all Association related mail to the new address, as the old PO box shortly will be closed.

 

OLD PHOTOS

Larry Wagner, CYN, 68 - 69, has submitted forty photos taken during his time in Derry. If you can help identify a couple of names and locations in the photos, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

 

February 16, 2009

TAPS

We have been informed by his son Jim, that Xavier James Leuci, RMCS USN (Ret), (4/66- 10/68), had passed away on July 1, 2008 at the age of 76.

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

 

February 9, 2009

NOTICE OF ELECTIONS

Year 2009 Elections for the Alumni Board of Directors

According to the Alumni Association by-laws, annual elections are to be held
each year to fill expired seats on the Board. Thus, an election will be held in
February 2009 to fill the board member seats currently held by David Kier,
Dennis Kolodziej, Wayne 'Stretch' Rousseau, and the open seat from Ron
Spadafora stepping down as Treasurer on 31 Dec 2008.
Thus, elections will be held for four (4) seats on the Board of Directors.

Those elected will each serve 1 two-year term of office (February
2009 through February 2011) and will be responsible not only for
running the Alumni Association for two years, but also for organizing
and running our 2009 Reunion.

According to the by-laws, following the election, the newly
constituted Board of Directors shall vote among themselves for all
officer positions on the board: President, Vice-President, Secretary,
Treasurer, and Trustee.

Because the overwhelming majority of the work in support of our
Alumni Association is done using personal computers and the internet,
each of the officer positions require some PC skills. For example,
the Vice-President assists in maintaining the internet website, the
Secretary maintains the mailing list database, the Treasurer
maintains the financial records and produces the annual financial
report, the Trustee assists the other officers of the Board in the
everyday running of the Association.

Thus we are looking for volunteers who are computer literate; that
is, you can comfortably use at least ONE, or more, of the following
(or similar) PC-based software packages. E-Mail, Microsoft Word,
Microsoft access (Database software), Microsoft Excel (Financial
accounting software), Dreamweaver MX or Microsoft Frontpage
(Website development / HTML software), Adobe PhotoDelux
(or similar software).

So, if you posses any one or more of these skills, and are committed
to seeing the Alumni Association continue as a viable organization,
and you would like to serve your fellow members, please consider
submitting your name of the name of a fellow member who you feel
would serve the Alumni Association in one of the officer positions
listed above. If submitting the name of a fellow member, ensure that
you have that members permission and that the member has agreed to
serve on the Board of Directors if elected.

How are you nominated? Just submit your name or a fellow members
name, along with what listed PC skill(s) you or they may posses to
the President, Mike Anderson, Chairman of the Nominating Committee
and to the Past President, G.F. Frank Smith.

You have until 24 February, 2009 to make a nomination.

Respectfully,

The Nominating Committee
Mike Anderson
MAnderson@antechsystems.com
G.F. Frank Smith
scfi44106@aol.com

February 8, 2009

The USNAVCOMMSTA Londonderry Alumni Association is pleased to announce the 2009 Reunion in Charleston SC, from September 17th - September 20th.

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, where detailed information is listed.

 

February 7, 2009

UNDELIVERABLE E-MAILS

The following members e-mail address bounced back. If your name is listed below, please forward your new e-mail address to the Webmaster so that the Members List and Distribution List may be updated.

B = Michael C. Bradley

E = Delbert Edwards

G = Robert 'Bob' Gregory

L = James 'Jim' Logan

M = John 'Jack' Madison

O = Walter Osterberg

 

February 4, 2009

TAPS

It has been reported by Alfred Whitehead, RM (63-64 66-68), that Mike Musser, RM (66-68), of Cassville, MO had passed away on January 25, 2009 at the age of 63.

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

 

SEARCHING FOR

Looking for anyone that may recall William 'Bill' Duduk, F 1/c. Bill was from Belleville NJ and stationed at the NOB during WWII. Please contact Joe Farren.

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

 

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Willi Braun, RM, USN Ret. (66-68), and Jim Mielke, IC, (75-77) have upgraded to life membership. Thank you!

 

THE 500 CLUB

Phillip Wade, RM, USN Ret. (59-62), has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2009.

"Bravo Zulu" to Phil.

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

 

January 20, 2009

TAPS

It has been reported by Paul Cafasso, ET (62-64), that Martin H. Niess, ETCM, USN(Ret), (63-66) of James Island, SC had passed away on January 18, 2009 at the age of 86.

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

 

January 18, 2009

NEW LINK

Art Ippolito, RM, (56-61 63-66), has sent in a link to an "Action Alert" on Retirees, Vets Health Cost Cuts that is posted on Military.com.

According to Ippy it concerns every retiree over the age of 62 and on Tricare for life and Medicare.

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

 

SEARCHING FOR

Looking for anyone that was stationed with the late Ralph Langley, PFC, USMC. Ralph, who was from Dayton, OH, was at the NOB from 1942 - 1944 and was billeted at Lisahally for a short period, then at Beech Hill, Co. A.

After Derry, he went to Quantico, then in 1945 was assigned to the 5th Marine Div in the Pacific theater. After the war he returned home, stayed in the Reserves, then later served in Korea. Any info would mean a lot ot the family.

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.

 

January 2, 2009

TAPS

It has been reported by Fred Beiner, RM (59-61) that Owen L. Gillespie, RMCM, USN (Ret), (58-61), had passed away on December 25, 2008 at the age of 89. RMCM Gillespie was the command's "Leading Chief" during his tour at NavRadFac Londonderry.

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

OLD PHOTOS

RM Mike Ponder has submitted a magazine cover from 1942 titled "The War Illustrated", America in N. Ireland.

RM Roy Spencer has provide some missing names to a 1964 photo of the Base Soccer Team, originally submitted by YN Joe Couch.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted items, and click on "VIEW".

SEARCHING FOR

If you submitted Association dues for 2009 and your name is not highlighted in the Members List, please contact the Webmaster. A check for 2009 dues was received supposedly from a Carl L. Woodward. Unfortunately, there is no member by this name and we are trying to figure out who's they are.

THE 500 CLUB

Arthur Saraphis USN(Ret), SK (61-62), and Joseph T. Wells, ET (63-66), have renewed their commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2009.

"Bravo Zulu" to both Art and Joseph.

In addition, I would also like to state that Joseph's contribution was instrumental in extending this program beyond its original plan.

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

 

December 25, 2008

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

 

November 27, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Alvin Brownstein USN(Ret), SH, Mar 68 - Mar 70.

Welcome aboard!

 

TAPS

It has been reported by Bob Green, LT/CDR, (60-63) that Jack Carenza, LT/CAPT SC USN Ret., (1961 - 1963) had passed away on October 12, 2008 at the age of 75.

His wife, Irene, will continue to live in their home in West Simsbury, CT. All six children and their families attended.

Jack retired from the Navy in 1981 and immediately started a successful career in the business world culminating with the presidency of Bell Sports.

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

 

THE 500 CLUB

USNCS LONDONDERRRY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS FOR 2008

Link to the NWRC website article dated 18 November 2008 - "Excellence In Engineering US Navy Alumni Scholarship for North West Regional College Students".

Group and individual photos have been added to the web page.

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

 

NEW LINK

Art Ippolito submitted a link to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service "Retired Pay Newsletter".

According to Ippy: "some gud stuff here that perhaps some of our retirees may be interested in ....".

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

 

November 10, 2008

NEW MEMBERS

Robert Kyle Askew, RM, Apr 70 - Nov 71

Clayborne (Butch) Dudley, RM, 4/70 - 11/71

Welcome aboard!

 

BINNACLE LIST - UPDATE

"Ippy" reports that Chuck Horton, RM, 5/59 - 1/63, is still struggling with numerous serious health issues.

In addition, their autistic grandson had to recently undergo a liver biopsy, and may require a transplant.

Please keep Chuck, their grandson, and rest of his family in your thoughts and prayers.

 

THE 500 CLUB

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE USNCS LONDONDERRRY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS FOR 2008

Per Ms. Judith Gorman, Head of Staff and Student Services - North West Regional College, the following students have been selected for 2008:

Andrew Duncan - Manufacturing Engineering

Sinead Coyle - Manufacturing Engineering

Gary McGillan - Manufacturing Engineering

Noel Brown - Manufacturing Engineering

Additional information on the recipients can be found on "The 500 Club" Webpage.

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

 

October 14, 2008

TAPS

It has been reported that Chris Baker, ET, 10/66 - 12/68, passed away on 9 October, 2008 in Aiken, SC.

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

 

OLD PHOTOS

Martin Foltz, a hobbyist Short Wave Listener, submitted a couple of QSL cards, and a letter that he received from the Receivers Officer, Ensign Rhoades from 1974 and 1975. The letter describes the communications system used for the Merchant Marine CW broadcast that Martin submitted his reception report on.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

 

October 3, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Thomas J. McKeown, Jr., CAPT - USN (Ret), 1976-1977

The last Commanding Officer of NCS Londonderry.

Welcome aboard!

 

2008 MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH

Gene Graeff and Ray Crossman have submitted numerous photos taken at the Mini Reunion.

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

In the left margin, click on "Reunions" to go to the web page, then look near the top of the page for the respective items, and click on "VIEW".

If you took photos and would like to have them posted on the Website, please contact the Webmaster.

 

OLD PHOTOS

RM2 Charlie Hayes, 1943-1944, has submitted photos of himself, fellow shipmates, and the 1943 Christmas Dinner Menu.

Hopefully someone will be able to help identify the others in these photographs. If you recognize anyone in the photo, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

 

THE 500 CLUB

Richard Stacy has renewed his commitment to the Derry Scholarship Program for 2008.

"Bravo Zulu" Richard!

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

 

September 7, 2008

TAPS

Frank Durnin, Civilian - Painter, 1963-1968, passed away on August 20, 2008 in Derry.

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

 

2008 MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH - UPDATE (E-mail from Paula and Len Kafer)

Greetings to all.....

Just a gentle reminder to those who have not sent their money to me for the events.....I would like to know the final count of those attending, so i can let the hotel know....

Many of you already have, but I am just sending this to all in my Navy file, as it is easier than sorting out those who paid and/or of those who indicated they could not attend.....

It is $106.00 per person for all the events......Pls send to me @.....

Leonard P. Kafer
1545 Arboretum drive Apt 403
Oshkosh, Wi 54901

Any questions, pls e/m or call 1 920 231 7178

OLD PHOTOS

David Borjes, RM, 75-76, has submitted twenty four photos taken during his tour in Derry.
If you were stationed there during this time period, please see if you may recall any of the unknown names.
If so, please contact the Webmaster.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

SEARCHING FOR

Robert Meissner, YNCS, 75 - 76, please contact Bobby James at: bobjames123@bellsouth.net

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.

REMINDER

The publishing of members names and contact information is to promote interaction and communications between shipmates.

Certainly this is one of the primary objectives and purposes of our Association.

Please respect the privacy of your fellow members and do not misuse this information to promote possibly unrelated and unsolicited communications.

 

August 27, 2008

2009 REUNION

The votes are in and have been tallied.

The Board held a teleconference today and we are pleased to announce the location for the 2009 Reunion is CHARLESTON, SC.

The Reunion dates will be 17 September 2009 (Thursday) - 20 September, 2009 (Sunday).

Proposed venues to include:

A Reception to be held on Friday evening, 18 September.

Dinner and Entertainment to be held on Saturday evening, 19 September.

A Hospitality Room will be available from Thursday, 17 September until early Sunday morning.

Ron Spadafora, our Treasurer, intends to organize a golf outing.

We are currently in the process of finalizing our hotel selection.

As soon as this is complete, we will pass this on to the Membership.

VOLUNTEERS !!!

The Board is looking for a member(s) in the Charleston SC area to help in the coordination of this reunion.

In most, if not all cases, between e-mail, telephone, and fax we will be able to handle the coordinating efforts.

However, there may be occasion that having a face to face meeting or to handle something directly will be more effective.

If you are willing to help out, please contact Mike Anderson via e-mail at manderson@antechsystems.com

or any one of the Board members.

 

NEW LINKS

Joe Couch, YN, 62 - 64, has submitted a link to the Navy Department Library - Naval Historical Center located at the Washington D.C. Navy Yard.

Numerous Cruise Books are available for interlibrary loan.

Reproduction services are also available.

Check their Website for further information.

The link has been posted on the "Favorite Links" web page.

In the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the highlighted item labeled "Naval Historical Center - Navy Department Library".

 

NEW LINK - DerryCity.com

John Fout, son of the late John T. Fout, RM 58 - 60, 68 - 70, has created a new website called "DerryCity.com".

Below is the "About Us" description from the website:

DerryCity.COM was set up to keep people informed about everyday happenings and events in and around the city of Derry. As the city and its population are growing at such a rapid pace, less and less people know their neighbours, or where to look for the most basic of services. Not only does DERRYCITY.COM keep you informed, but it also gives you the opportunity to tell others all about you. On this website you can upload and edit news, events and other information about your club or organization, free of charge. Check out bus and train timetables, school holidays, hospital visiting hours etc. etc. So join us now and share your music, videos and photos with you friends, or even make new friends. Derry is your city, so make DERRYCITY.COM your site. Commercial advertisements must be paid for, in order to pay for the operational overheads involved with managing the website. We also recommend that you read our Terms of Use. Derry is your city, so make DerryCity.COM your site

The link has also been posted on the "Favorite Links" web page.

In the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the highlighted item labeled "DerryCity.Com".

 

August 21, 2008

2008 MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH - UPDATE (E-mail from Paula and Len Kafer)

Please note that the cutoff date for the hotel is coming up fast on the 18th Aug 08, after that, it is "pot-luck" on the rooms......

Also, pls remit your money (if you have not yet done so) to me for the events and the hospitality room......@

Leonard P. Kafer
1545 Arboretum Drive, Apt 403
Oshkosh, Wi., 54901

Make sure I receive the money no later than 13 Sept 08, as I need to finalize the number of attendees with the hotel.....Thank you.....


Some have asked about the amounts being charged, please understand, the hotel charges for the hospitality room ad it's cleaning, also for the Sky Room for the Sun and Wed events, we also need a ABC liquor license for the hospitality room so we can bring our own bottles, there also are minimum amounts for the cash bar for Sun and Weds nite events or we pay for the bartender......Wed's nite there will also be some white and red wine for each table that is included....

I have tried to keep the total expenses inline and yet to make sure that we have quality events and most of us are of the opinion that the hospitality room is very nice for us.....Much better tha trying to just have a hotel room for our hospitality room.....

Given the recent raises in both energy and food, I am personally surprised the charges are not higher than they are.....

Anyway, I am sure we will all have a great time.....

Pls pass this info along to any who are not addressed above. As some do not have e/m's and I have no way of contacting them.....and I am sure that my "Navy" address list is also not 100%......So pls help to get the word out......

Thanks to all and we are looking forward to seeing all soon.....

Tks/br

Kaf n Paula

OLD PHOTOS

"Then" photo of Charlie Carpenter, RM 62 - 65, submitted by Jim Sullivan, is posted in the TAPS section just following Charlie's entry.

Photo of Leo Deehan, Civ., EM Club Manager, his wife Sally, and granduaghter Shaunna, Circa 1989, submitted by their daughter Deirdre Baxa, is posted in the TAPS section, just following Leo's entry.

UNDELIVERABLE E-MAILS

The following members e-mail addresses are bouncing back:

Philip 'Chief' Fusilier

Veronica Wardlow

Joseph 'Pat' Yerashunas

If your name is listed, please forward your new information to the Webmaster so that we can update our records.

 

August 9, 2008

TAPS

Jim Sullivan reports the following sad news:

It is with great sadness I report the passing of my dear friend and our fellow Navcommsta Londonderry Alumnus, Charles 'Charlie Echo' Carpenter (RM, 1962 - 1965) on Friday, August 8, 2008. Charlie retired from the Navy as a Chief Radioman, with over 25 years of service to his country. He will be missed greatly by all his friends. Messages of condolences may be sent to his wife, June, and family at: 5 Japonica Drive, Lititz, PA 17543. Funeral to be held Monday, August 11th, at First Presbyterian Church, 140 East Orange St, Lancaster, PA

Sully.

OLD PHOTOS

Don Graham provided additional updates to the names of individuals in the JFK Memorial Mass photo taken at St. Columb's R.C. Church, Waterside.

Jim Sullivan submitted a photo of Bobby Fitzpatrick receiving an award plaque, his wife Agnes, and a number of the 1963 - 1966 era alumni, taken at the 2003 Derry Reunion. The photo is posted in the TAPS section just following Bobby's entry.

 

August 2, 2008

MEMBER - CHARLES 'CHARLIE ECHO' CARPENTER, RM, 62-65

Jim Sullivan has asked the following information be forwarded to the membership:

"My good friend and fellow shipmate, Charles 'Charlie Echo' Carpenter (RM, served at Derry 1962 to 1965) could use your prayers and good thoughts after being diagnosed with an insidious and aggressive form of cancer. The prognosis is not good. If you'd like to send Charlie a "Thinking of You" card, his home address is: 5 Japonica Drive, Lititz, PA 17543. His wife, a Derry Bride, June may be called at 717-625-1024 ".

2009 REUNION - UPDATE

To date, we've received quite a few responses for the selection preferences for the 2009 Reunion. If you plan to attend, and you haven't yet replied, we'd like to hear from you. The location choices are: Asheville NC or Charleston SC, and either the month of August or September. You have until August 15, 2008 to e-mail your preferences.

RADIOMAN AUTHOR

Member Ron Schwab informed us that fellow communicator, Michael R. Ellis, RMCS, USN(Ret), has become an excellent author and his offerings center around Navy communications hero being RM2 Rigney Page - very interesting novels. Two to date and a third one on the way. Latest novel takes place at the NCS Nea Makri (NGR).

"Terrific author and a must read for all intersted in Naval Communications in the era of 1950-1970. " Ron Schwab, RMCS(Ret)

Links for more information on Mike Ellis' novels have been posted on the "Favorite Links" web page. In the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the highlighted item.

OLD PHOTOS

Roy Spencer has put his PhotoShop skills to work and performed some very nice restoration work on the photo taken at the memorial Mass for President John F. Kennedy.

 

July 29, 2008

2009 REUNION

We are in the final planning stages for the 2009 Reunion. The Board has narrowed the selection to two locations:

Asheville NC

Charleston SC

The plan is to hold the Reunion in either the month of August or September of 2009.

We would like to hear from YOU, the Association membership, on your preferences of these choices, along with any other comments that you may have. We would like to hear from you by August 15, 2008. Shortly after, the Board will meet to make a final decision.

 

SOCIAL SECURITY INFORMATION - EXTRA SPECIAL CREDIT FOR MILITARY SERVICE

If you served on active duty prior to 2002 and are planning for retirement, you should read below and also visit the Social Security website.

The following note was forwarded by member Dennis Salzer:

Please share this with anyone who's had active duty service prior to
January 2002 and planning for retirement. In a nutshell, it boils down
to this: You qualify for a higher social security payment because of
your military service, for active duty any time from 1940 through 2001
(the program was done away with in January 2002). Up to $1200 per year
of earnings credit credited AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION - which can make
a substantial difference in social security monthly payments upon your
retirement. You must bring your DD-214 to the Social Security Office -
and you must ask for this benefit to receive it! Soc Sec website:

www.ssa.gov/retire2military.htm/

This is something to put in your files for when you apply for Social
Security down the road. It is NOT just for retirees, BUT anyone who has
served on active duty prior to January 2002. FYI - this benefit is not
automatic, you must ask for it!

The link has also been posted on the "Favorite Links" web page.

In the left margin click on "Favorite Links", then follow down to the highlighted item labeled "Retirement Planner - Special Extra Earnings for Military Service: Social Security Online".

UNDELIVERABLE E-MAILS

The following members e-mail addresses are bouncing back:

Robert L. McAley

David Montague

Tony Orlando

If your name is listed, please forward your new e-mail address to the Webmaster, so that we can update our records.

 

July 24, 2008

2008 MINI REUNION in Virginia Beach, VA - ADDENDUM

Len Kafer asked to post their mailing address in order to send payment to him for the venues that he is arranging.

Leonard P. Kafer

1545 Arboretum Drive - Apt 403

Oshkosh, WI 54901

OLD PHOTOS - UPDATES

In the photo group that CAPT Ward submitted, the photo titled "NCS Londonderry Officers - 1968" now have all the names posted.

Likewise, the photo taken at the memorial mass for President John F. Kennedy. Just about all have been identified. There are still a couple of unknowns. If you can identify them, please advise the Webmaster.

 

July 23, 2008

TAPS

Arthur H. Swift, RM, 1974-1976, passed away on July 8, 2008.

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

 

2008 MINI REUNION in Virginia Beach, VA - UPDATE (e-mail from PAULA AND LEN KAFER)

OK everyone, here are the details.....
Location:
Holdiday Inn SunSpree Resort
VB Ocean Front
3900 Atlantic Ave,
V.B., Va 23451

Phone: 757 428 1711
Fax: 757 425 7872
www.vboceanfrontnorth.com

Name of event for hotel is DERRY REUNION, mention it for the special rate which is avail thurs-thurs, 09/18-25/08 Rate is $79.00/day plus any taxes.....You must make your reservations directly with the hotel.....This special rate is available for 10 kings, 15 doubles or run of the house after set aside rooms are gone.....Rates are for reservations through 17 Aug 08, after that it is based on the space and rate availability.....

Paula and I plan to arrive on the 18th to give us time to make sure all is ok with the hotel and the events.....

We again will have the Dolphin room as our hospitality room for Sun, 21 Sept til 1300 hrs on Thurs, 25 Sept.....Cost is $15.00 per person, payable to Len Kafer, not the hotel.....

SUNDAY night we will have a buffet reception at the hotel in the Skytop Room. Cash bar, 1800-2400 hrs......Cost is $41.00 per person payable to Len kafer no later than 13 Sept, not the hotel.....

Ron Spadafora will be scheduling the golf outing(s). Contact him directly for info and signing up..... spadaforausn@aol.com

Gene and Lucia Graeff lugen@cox.net have again graciously offered to provide us with a cookout at their home, 553 Sweeney Road.......Details and driving instructions will be provided for this later....This will be held on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the weather.....

Wednesday night in the hotel's Sky Room from 1800-2400 hrs, we will have our farewell event with an Italian buffet (just for "Ippy").....Cash bar.....Cost is $50.00 per person payable to Len Kafer no later than 13 Sept, not the hotel.....

Please make sure you get your payments to Len Kafer for the hospitality room and events, no later than 13 Sept, as firm head counts must be given to the hotel.....Please, please co-operate and do this, no exceptions. The hotal is very strict on this and we do not want to disappoint anyone.....

Please feel free to provide this info to any and all who have an interest in attending.....Obviously no one is obligated to stay at this hotel, however, all will be expected to pay in full for those using the hospitality room and attending one or both fuctions at the hotel on Sun and Weds night.....The golf outing is handled by Ron Spadafora as mentioned earlier and we will take-up a collection at the cookout to help defray the costs for Gene and Lucia.....

Guess this covers it for now.....If anyone has questions, pls contact us @ pstaggl@yahoo.com and ALSO COPY lpkafer@yahoo.com Reason being, both Paula and Kaf volunteer at the EAA air show in Oshkosh and right after the show we have to go to N. Carolina on business, so there will not be much time for checking e/m's each day.....However, the lpkafer@yahoo address comes to Kaf's Black Berry and we can keep track of all replies on a more timely basis that way......Thank you.....

By the way, please bring any pictures or anyother items to put on display for the group in the hospitality room.....It is always interesting to take those trips back in time !!!!!!

Hope this finds you all in good health and HUMOR, and we look forward to seeing all of you soon......

Take care and stay safe...... Paula n Kaf

ALSO LEN'S CELL PHONE IS 1 828 301 3700 OSHKOSH LAND-LINE FOR PH AND FAX 1 920 231 7178

 

OLD PHOTOS

PFC Bud Hansen, USMC, has submitted a number of photos and news articles pertaining to the First Marine Provisional Battalion and Pipe Band stationed at Beech Hill and Springtown during WWII. Semper Fi!

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

 

June 27, 2008

2008 MINI REUNION

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: Friday, June 27, 2008 12:00 PM
Subject: MINI REUNION IN VIRGINIA BEACH 2008
Greetings to all,

Paula and I are still in Paris. My work has me traveling a very heavy schedule internationally, so I do not really have the time to go to Charleston to arrange something there.....Sorry about that, perhaps another year.....

I am negotiating with the HOLIDAY INN, SUN-SPREE in Virginia beach where we have been before. We are looking at ETA 21 Sept 08 and ETD 25 Sept 08 (Sun-Thurs).....

As soon as I know the room rates and the charges for the hospitality room, welcome reception Sun night and the buffet event on wednesday night, I will let you all know.....

However, inorder to do this the best way with the hotel, I need to know by the end of this weekend how many people will attend each function....Please respond by e-mail to pstaggl@yahoo.com

Some of the addresses herein may not be up todate, pls free free to pass the word to any and all, makes no difference when they were in Derry.....The MINI originally started for those serving in Derry in the late 50's, but has since expanded.....Any and all are most welcome.....

Keep your powder dry and keep her headed into the wind !!!!!!!

C-U all soon and please do respond by no later than the end of the day Sunday this week....

Tks, God Bless you all.....

Paula n Len Kafer ("KAF") Derry 58-60 RM2-P1 RM2318 (seems like yesterday!!)

As additional information is received regarding the 2008 VA Beach Mini-Reunion it will be posted on the Website.

OLD PHOTOS

Donald Graham, LT, 61 - 63, has submitted a photo taken at a memorial Mass held at St. Columb's R.C. Church on the Waterside for Pres. John F. Kennedy after his assassination in November, 1963.

If you recognize anyone in the photo, including yourself, please contact the Webmaster and we'll add it to the growing list of names.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

 

June 18, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Bradford (Brad) Brinizer, RM, Jan 68 - Jun 69

Welcome aboard!

NEW LINKS POSTED

Both are listed under "Derry/Northern Ireland Newspapers Links", "Derry Journal" and "Search Notices - Announcements Ireland".

It was brought to my attention the link to the Derry Journal was not posted, so here it is.

In addition, the "Search Notices - Announcements Ireland" allows one to review various Family Notices, such as wedding announcements, births, obituaries and memoriams, posted in various newspapers, such as the Derry Journal, that are published in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

In the left margin click on "Favorite LInks" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item listed under "Derry/Northern Ireland Newspapers Links", and click on the respective link.

 

June 9, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Ray Spencer Sponseller, RM, Oct 75 - Apr 77

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

William 'Willie' Duffy, Civilian Carpenter, 1969 - 1977, passed away on June 9, 2008.

Willie was also brother and brother-in-law to fellow members Frankie and Byron Hodgkins, RM (60-62).

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

OLD PHOTOS

Capt Ward came through again and sent some additional photos of the Ward/Lynch Change of Command Ceremony. These are posted on the Old Photo page.

In addition, we are attempting to fill in all of the names in the 1968 Londonderry Officers photo. We are about 75% of the way home on this. If anyone recognizes any of the remaining 25%, perhaps your old Division Officer or just someone that you may recall, please send the name(s) along with where they are in the photo to the Webmaster.

This photo is located on the Old Photos web page, click on the group "of various military and social functions at NCS Londonderry". It is the fifteenth photo down, and the names are highlighted in yellow.

MEMBERSHIP DEMOGRAPHICS

Ever wonder about where the Association membership are located? A map has been posted on the Members List webpage that displays membership demographics by state. The purpose of a map such as this is to provide a visual picture, useful for planning purposes of reunions, etc ... . To view the map go to the Members List webpage, look for the yellow highlighted area, and click on "Membership Demographics".

 

May 23, 2008

TAPS

John 'Sonny' Deeney, Civilian, 7/63 - 8/74, passed away in Derry and was buried on May 23, 2008.

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

 

May 12, 2008

TAPS

James "Jim" Mathews, RM (SEAL), 71-72, passed away on 28 April, 2008 from cancer caused by the effects of Agent Orange.

Please keep Jim, his family, and close friends in your thoughts and prayers.

BINNACLE LIST - UPDATE

"Ippy" reports that Chuck Horton will have to attend Occupational Therapy and the doctors are working on his vision. This should take about six months. However, Chuck is showing progress and intends to beat this thing.

Likewise, please keep Chuck and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

OLD PHOTOS

The 10 July 1969, 25th Anniversary Commemorative issue of the Modulator is available for viewing, submitted by Capt. Ward. This issue contains numerous photos of Clooney and Rossdowney, showing the progression of the facilities from 1944 - 1969.

The article on page 16 of this Modulator "Ireland Charms Many", is an interesting read. I would say that Derry has to hold the Navy record for multiple tours of duty and tour extensions.

In the left margin, click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

 

"MILITARY HEALTH SYSTEM NEWS" - Forwarded by Arthur Ippolito:

Retirees and their families really have to keep on eye on this TRICARE For Life (TFL) program as the Gov't is seeking desperate ways to reduce spending and rein-in the budget. Two targets standout: (1) Active duty/retired military personnel and (2) Government employees.
When outfits such as the VFW; FRA; MOAA; American Legion and other military associated organizations request military families contact their congressional representatives, it's almost a "must" that we do so if we want to keep TFL and whatever little "other" perks we have.

Subject: Military Health System News www.tricare.mil/eenews/

and then reference "Military Medical Digest Archives" of 05/08/2008.

 

May 5, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Larry Moore, RM, 1975 - 1977

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Stanley B. Sienko, ChMM / WO1 (Machinist), 1942 - 1945, passed away September 28, 1994.

A request has been made that if anyone remembers WO1 Sienko, to please contact the Webmaster. There is a photo of him posted in the TAPS Section, along with others in the "Old Photos" section.

BINNACLE LIST

"Ipp" has reported that fellow member Chuck Horton, RM, 59-63, experienced a moderate stroke approximately two weeks ago. Although he has a number of complications, Chuck is beginning outpatient therapy. The doctors are predicting a complete recovery, however the healing process will be slow. Chuck's wife, Sharon, thanks everyone for their thoughts and prayers for Chuck's full recovery. Art Ippolito has been in contact with Chuck's family and will provide updates as he gets further info.

Roy Spencer reports that he experienced complications from Rotator Cuff surgery in Feb 2007 and on May 9th will have to go through surgery, immobilization, and physical therapy all over again. Roy asks to please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

ANNUAL ELECTIONS

Since there were no nominations from any of the membership to run for a seat on the Board, Mike Anderson and Ron Spadafora have agreed to stay on for another term.

SEARCHING FOR

Jim McKee asked if anyone has heard from Jack Gemelke to please contact him. Jim's contact info is listed either on the "Searching For" page or on the Members List.

While you are at it, there are a number of names, although not recent, are still outstanding. If you can help out in these matters, please do. Likewise, if the "requester" has made contact with the person they were looking for, kindly notify the Webmaster so their posting can be moved to the "Found" list.

To view these items, in the left margin, click on "Searching For" to go to the web page. Details are highlighted in "yellow".

HOME PAGE

The various service ribbons that NAVCOMMSTA Londonderry and its predecessor commands were awarded are now on display.

In the left margin, click on "Home Page" to view this item.

OLD PHOTOS

Photos of Stanley Sienko during his tour of duty at the NOB, during 1942 - 1945.

Captain Ward, OIC and CO of NCS Londonderry, has submitted quite a collection of photos during his two tours of duty there. A lot of interesting photos of various military ceremonies, holiday celebrations and parties at Clooney, the facility upgrade at Clooney Base, including photos of the old Tech Control and Manual Relay, the transmitter deck at Rossdowney Base, and the construction and commisioning phases of Dungiven. There are five groupings, listed chronologically, with over 100 photos in all. I would like to personally thank Capt. Ward for sharing them with us.

As you look through these photos, if you recognize someone or want to clarify the caption, please send a note to the Webmaster. To make my life a bit easier, please indicate what photo you are referring to, along with the information.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted items, and click on" VIEW".

SHIPS STORE

There are a limited quantity of the bronze "Challenge" coin still available. See "Item 6" on the Ships Store page of the Website. If you have additional questions, please contact our Treasurer, Ron Spadafora.

THE 500 CLUB

The webpage has been updated with additional new members for 2008.

To view these updates, in the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to the webpage.

Your Webmaster,

Dennis Kolodziej

 

March 31, 2008

THEN AND NOW

In the Members List, "Then and Now" photos of Jan Reichert Karns, DT 75-76, have been posted.

OLD PHOTOS

Intersting read, along with a number of old photos of the various facilities of the NOB. An excerpt from "Building the US Navy's bases in World War II: History of the Bureau of Yards and Docks and the Civil Engineering Corps, 1940 - 1946". This article tells the construction story of the various Naval facilities in Northern Ireland and includes a map and photos.

In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the first yellow highlighted item, and click on "VIEW".

THE "500" CLUB

The webpage has been updated with the current list of 2008 members.

Members that have previously commited to support this effort, 2008 is now upon us.

Again, our personal thanks to those that have already stepped up to help with this worthwhile effort.

In the left margin, click on "The 500 Club" to go to this web page.

 

March 17, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Don "Hammer" Hetrick, RM, 1962 - 1965

Welcome Aboard!

March 15, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Edward "Turk" Derderian, ETN, 1962 - 1965

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Ross Wardlow, RM, 71-76, passed away March 15, 2008 in Derry.

William E. Hodges USN (Ret), SHC, was stationed in Derry, passed away March 13, 2008 in Virginia Beach, VA.

In addition, a photo and obituary for SHC Hodges has been posted.

Please keep Ross and William and their families in your thoughts and prayers during this stressful time.

SEARCHING FOR...

Gary Blassingame, RM3, from 72-74

Eldridge Camille Delatt III or "Grit", RM2

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

 

March 14, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Rod Miller, PN, 1970 - 1972

Welcome aboard!

OLD PHOTOS

Rod Miller's photos (40) and (24), from 1970-72 are posted. In the left margin click on "Old Photos" to go to the web page, then look for the yellow highlighted items, and click on "VIEW".

SEARCHING FOR

Thomas Walsh, 1966 - 67

John & Mary Karmer, Steve Spencer, Sandy & Libby Higginbotham

Rich Bish, RM, 1969 - 71

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, also take a look at the other entries, perhaps you could help out.

THE 500 CLUB

Derry Journal photo of the 2007 awardees posted, along with link to Derry Journal newspaper article. In the left margin click on "The 500 Club" to go to the webpage to view these items.

For those that have supported this effort we would like to say Bravo Zulu (Well Done) !!! The Association has committed to this for 2008 and 2009. Please consider giving this program your support too.

Your Webmaster,

Dennis Kolodziej

 

March 9, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Janet (Jan) Reichert (now Karns), DT, 75-76

Welcome aboard!

2007 DERRY REUNION PHOTOS

If one picture is worth a thousand words, then this should fill volumes! My reunion photos, well most of them, are posted for all to see. I filled the captions in by memory, so if you are in the photo and I have either a question mark, or nothing listed. Please send me an e-mail, indicating what photo, and what the caption/name should read, and I will update ASAP. In addition, if there is a photo posted that you would prefer to have taken down. Likewise, please advise.

In addition, to make viewing easier, "click on" links have been set up for the photos that Roy Spencer previously submitted.

If you have Reunion photos, or any other photos for that matter, that you would like posted, please send them electronically to me, preferably in .jpg format. If you have any questions or they are in other media, please contact me directly.

These photos can be found by clicking on "Reunions" in the left margin, and then click on the respective "VIEW".

Enjoy.

Your Webmaster,

Dennis Kolodziej

 

March 6, 2008

NEW MEMBER

Robert "Dale" Foster, CYN, 1969 - 1971

Welcome aboard!

NOTICE OF ELECTIONS / NOMINATIONS

 

NEW LINK POSTED

Some of the membership are already aware of this. Roy Spencer sent out a link called propertynews.com, that is a site containing a satellite imagery maping system. This system has outstanding resolution and allows one to select either a "map" or a "birds eye view" of anywhere that you may want to traverse it about the town, such as Clooney Base, the town, your favorite pub, or even where you or your friends lived. This link can be accessed on the "More Websites" web page, highlighted under the "Derry Related Links". Hours of enjoyment can be found here. Bravo Zulu Roy!

SHIPS STORE - NEW ITEM AVAILABLE

There are a limited quantity of the bronze "Challenge" coins available. Further information, including photos of both sides, are contained under "Item 6" on the Ships Store page of the Website. If you have additional questions, please contact our Treasurer, Ron Spadafora.

BASE HISTORY PHOTO

A panoramic view of the Dungiven Transmitter site has been posted on the Base History page of the Website.

OLD PHOTOS

A number of photos have been graciously submitted by Ivor Browne, nephew of Jack Johnston, SK , (41 - 44), and his wife Gabrielle (McGavigan) Johnston, have been posted. These are circa 1942-1944, and include two issues of the Derry - NOB News, photos of the Lisahally Base, a number of Jack's shipmates, and an article from a 1942 Life magazine of the Londonderry Base.

Enjoy!

Your Webmaster,

Dennis Kolodziej

 

January 28, 2008

NEW MEMBER

John J. Ryan USN (Ret), RM, 10/72 - 6/76

Welcome aboard!

TAPS

Bridget Badham, Civ., (60's - 77), Base Telephone Operator, passed away January 20, 2008.

Juliette H. Waterbury, wife of Arthur J. Waterbury USN (Ret), RM (4/56 - 11/58), passed away June 14, 2007.

Jack Lindsay Johnston, SK, 41- 44, passed away July 7, 1988.

Gabrielle "Gaby" (McGavigan) Johnston, wife of Jack L. Johnston, SK, 41- 44, passed away January 14, 1989.

NOTICE OF ELECTIONS

Nominations will be accepted until the end of January.

Details are listed in the January 15 update, or contact the Nominating Committee, Mike Anderson or G.F. Frank Smith.

E-MAIL UPDATES

Thank you for those members that have submitted updates. See the "Members List" page for details.

WEBMASTER COMMENTS ... re the Taps listings:

I recall that Bridget was the first Derry person that I spoke to. Arriving late night at Belfast Aldergrove Airport, I called the base to arrange transportation. Bridget answered and thankfully accepted my collect call, where I explained my predicament and then asked her to transfer me to the MAA shack.

I received a nice e-mail from Ivor Browne, Jack and Gabrielle Johnston's nephew. He forwarded to me a number of photographs, not only of his uncle and aunt. But also photos taken at Lisahally, Derry, and Springtown. In addition to, two issues of the Derry NOB News and a four page article from Life magazine in 1942, of the Londonderry Base. These will be posted on the Website, shortly.

In addition, I received an e-mail from Art Waterbury, regarding his wife's passing, and an update on his children, grandchildren, and himself.

Please keep all these people in your thoughts and prayers. Also, thank you for your website contributions.

Your Webmaster,

Dennis Kolodziej

 

January 15, 2008

NOTICE OF ELECTIONS

Year 2008 Elections for the Alumni Board of Directors

According to the Alumni Association by-laws, annual elections are to
be held each year to fill expired seats on the Board. Thus, an
election will be held in February 2008 to fill the board member seats
currently held by Mike Anderson and Ron Spadafora.
Thus, elections will be held for two (2) seats on the
Board of Directors.

Those elected will each serve 1 two-year term of office (February
2008 through February 2010) and will be responsible not only for
running the Alumni Association for two years, but also for organizing
and running our 2009 Reunion.

According to the by-laws, following the election, the newly
constituted Board of Directors shall vote among themselves for all
officer positions on the board: President, Vice-President, Secretary,
Treasurer, and Trustee.

Because the overwhelming majority of the work in support of our
Alumni Association is done using personal computers and the internet,
each of the officer positions require some PC skills. For example,
the Vice-President assists in maintaining the internet website, the
Secretary maintains the mailing list database, the Treasurer
maintains the financial records and produces the annual financial
report, the Trustee assists the other officers of the Board in the
everyday running of the Association.

Thus we are looking for volunteers who are computer literate; that
is, you can comfortably use at least ONE, or more, of the following
(or similar) PC-based software packages. E-Mail, Microsoft Word,
Microsoft access (Database software), Microsoft Excel (Financial
accounting software), Dreamweaver MX or Microsoft Frontpage
(Website development / HTML software), Adobe PhotoDelux
(or similar software).

So, if you posses any one or more of these skills, and are committed
to seeing the Alumni Association continue as a viable organization,
and you would like to serve your fellow members, please consider
submitting your name of the name of a fellow member who you feel
would serve the Alumni Association in one of the officer positions
listed above. If submitting the name of a fellow member, ensure that
you have that members permission and that the member has agreed to
serve on the Board of Directors if elected.

How are you nominated? Just submit your name or a fellow members
name, along with what listed PC skill(s) you or they may posses to
the President, Mike Anderson, Chairman of the Nominating Committee
and to the Past President, G.F. Frank Smith.

You have until the end of January, 2008 to make a nomination.

Respectfully,

The Nominating Committee
Mike Anderson
MAnderson@antechsystems.com
G.F. Frank Smith
scfi44106@aol.com

 

January 10, 2008

NEW MEMBERS

James 'Jim' Harding, ET, 65 - 66

Haywood Edwin White Jr (Eddie), RM, 62 - 63

Welcome aboard!

SEARCHING FOR

Joe Spillman (wife Rita), RM 72-74, please contact Bill Halman at: bhalman@wayxcable.com

AD Johnson, Lubbock, TX, re your recent dues payment, would you please contact and identify yourself to the Webmaster.

NEW LINK POSTED

"Very Derry"

This link, submitted by member Byron Hodgkins, provides access to a collection of Quicktime Vitural Reality (VR) panaramas of Derry. The link can be found on the "More Websites/Favorite Links" page under the "Derry Related Links" section.

E-MAIL UPDATES

In response to the posting of undeliverable e-mails, a number of updates have been received. If you haven't been receiving the notices of website updates, please verify your e-mail address in the Members List for correctness AND send me an e-mail. It's possible it may not be in the distribution list. Likewise, if you had an address change, please submit an updated membership application so that our records can be kept current.

Thank you for your support!

Your Webmaster,

Dennis Kolodziej

 

December 29, 2007

NEW MEMBER

Joe Waters USN (Ret), CYN, 66-67

Welcome aboard!

December 25, 2007

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

 

December 22, 2007

Additional photos (Ph #1 - #9) of Barney Westphal and shipmates at Myrtle Beach in Aug 2007 have been posted in the Taps section. Submitted by Len Kafer.

THEN AND NOW

In the Members List, "Then and Now" photos have been posted of Morris 'Pete' Peterson, ET 74-76.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

William 'Bill' Halman USN(Ret), RM 72-74, has upgraded to life membership. Thank you!

 

December 17, 2007

Len Kafer's Tribute to Barney Westphal

The "Tribute to Barney Westphal", authored by Len Kafer and sent to the membership today, is available for viewing in the Taps section where Barney is listed by clicking on "TRIBUTE". Numerous e-mails have been received from the membership, moved by the tribute and thanking Len for the kind words and interesting story on Barney.

Bravo Zulu Len!

NEW MEMBER

Elmer E. 'Doc' Taylor, USN (Ret) HM (CAC/AC), 2/67 - 8/68

Welcome aboard!

NEW LINK POSTED

"The Best of Derry City"

The website owned by Declan Walls contains useful information on businesses in Derry. So why not pay it a visit.

Note: This item can be found on the "More Websites/Favorite Links" page, under the Derry/Northern Ireland Miscellaneous Links section. However it is NOT highlighted in YELLOW. One of mysteries of HTML programming yet to be solved, that makes this job so "interesting".

Last, but not least ....... "The Old School Radioman"

This poem (author unknown?) was submitted by NCS Derry alumnus, Arthur "Ippy" Ippolito. Perhaps for full effect it should be transmitted in .1A1 mode at 40 WPM. Required reading for all IT and CYN ratings. This item is "inappropriately" located at the bottom of the "Old Photos" webpage. Likewise, no YELLOW highlight (yet).

Enjoy!

 

December 15, 2007

SAD NEWS

Frank Smith received a call from Karl Nitschke indicating that our dear friend and shipmate Barney Westphal had passed away this morning. Additional details have been posted by Frank on the NCS Guest Book. Please keep Barney, his dear wife Margaret, and family in your thoughts and prayers during this stressful time.

 

UNDELIVERABLE E-MAILS

The following members e-mail address bounced back. If your name is listed below, please forward your new e-mail address to the Webmaster so that the Members List and Distribution List may be updated.

B = Joseph Banks; Dave Begey; George "Skip" Benjamin; Walter Bort

C = Frederick Callahan; Jim Carlstrom; Carol Ann Cole Frizell

D and F = Dave Dandino; Jim Dodrill; Alan Duncan; Raymond Flynn

H, J, and K = A.J. "Tex" Holder; Jerry Hudnall; George Jellerson; Annie (Orr) Klingebiel

L and M = Xavier James Leuci; Jim McKee; Patrick Morris; Mike Musser

P and R = Gary Paige; Mickey Petrisko; Susie Reed

S and T = Jeffery Sanderson; Monroe Schrader; Jack "Doc Summers; Zack Taylor

V, W, and Y = Zack Taylor; Joseph Voll; Steve Wislowski; Terry Lee Yarnell

Derry Reunion 2007 - PHOTOS

Roy Spencer has graciously provided the location to his photos taken during the Reunion that one can "cut and paste" into their browser. A link will be set up shortly.

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=byfwwrzy.60dmyxha&x=0&y=-lxx2xr

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=byfwwrzy.22r91o5a&x=0&y=-4dug6d

December 12, 2007

Update - Barney Westphal

Barney's wife Margaret has indicated that he suffered another stroke, many seizures, and has been brought home with hospice care. Please keep our shipmate in your thoughts and prayers.

Margaret also sent notice of a recent change in their e-mail address, the link has been updated in the Members List. They can be contacted at : bmwestphal@embarqmail.com

 

November 28, 2007

NEW MEMBERS

TAPS

2007 DERRY REUNION

If you have digital photos, preferably .jpg, please send them to the Webmaster for posting to the Website.

NOTE

Additional information to follow shortly.

Please note other NCS Webpages such as the Members List, City/State Listing, Derry Brides, Taps, Old Photos, Searching For, and the 500 Club have been routinely updated.

At this time, please use the YELLOW highlight as the indicator in the various webpages for any new entries and updates.

Regards,

Your Webmaster

Dennis Kolodziej

 

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
U.S. NAVCOMMSTA Londonderry Alumni Association
P.O. Box 108
 New Boston, MI 48164-0108
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