REUNIONS IN REVIEW   USS ATHERTON (DE-169) June 21, 2005 Chaired by: Preston & Carol Davis Highlights: Four USS Atherton (DE-169) sailors, Preston Davis, wife Carol and son Tim, Tom Ciaccio with wife Rosella, Joe Huyer wife Carol and Alan Wright with wife Bobbie made it to the reunion aboard the USS Slater (DE-677) Destroyer Escort Historical Museum in Albany, New York June 13, 2005. Guests were Mrs. Kay Langone, widow of Gene Langone RT3/c, daughter and 2 sons, widow of Art Spotts SOM3/c Geraldine and sons Glen and Dean Spotts, Rick and Tom sons of John Austin SoM2/c, Alan Greendale grandson of Horace Greendale QM1/c and great-grandson. Photo USS LAWRENCE (DD-250/DDG-4)/USS KING (DD-242) Barrington Hotel & Suites Branson, MO June 22-26, 2005 Chaired by: Craig Bernat Attendance: 43 total/19 shipmates Highlights: Everyone was welcomed with a BBQ the first evening. Day one had us "riding the ducks" and seeing Yakov Smirnoff. On Friday we attended the Jim Stafford show. After the show Jim posed with the group for a photo. Saturday we sailed on the showboat Branson Belle for a show and dinner cruise. Before boarding we had a short memorial service for our departed shipmates. We hope to see everyone next June in Las Vegas. USS DALY (DD-519) Millennium Hotel St. Louis, Missouri August 5-11, 2005 Chaired by: Ed Dunn Attendance: 27 total/15 shipmates Highlights: Our reunion was held in conjunction with the Tin Can Sailors National Reunion. Enjoyed greeting old and new friends. The speakers were super. USS AULICK (DD-569) Millennium Hotel St. Louis, Missouri August 7-11, 2005 Chaired by: Henrietta Hays and J.C. Hays Attendance: 31 total/13 shipmates Highlights: Meeting other ship members. The movie's shown. The Ship Store and also the crew from the Tin Can Sailors. USS BROOKE (DEG/FFG-1) Doubletree New Orleans, Louisiana August 24-28, 2005 Chaired by: Steve Hunt Attendance: 68 total/35 shipmates Highlights: Cajun Swamp tour. Court of Two Sisters Jazz Brunch. D-Day Museum. reole Queen Paddlewheeler Dinner Cruise. French Quarter and Riverwalk. Lastly, Hurricane Katrina! 17 Survivors! USS EDWARDS (DD-619) Historic Inns of Annapolis, Annapolis, Maryland August 31 - September 3, 2005 Chaired by: Bud and Shirley Kahlanbeck Attendance: 34 total/7 Shipmates Highlights: The City of Annapolis and the Hotel were great choices for our reunion #18. Our 2nd floor Hospitality room came complete with a veranda overlooking the main street of historic Annapolis. Our Tour of Washington D.C. was highlighted by the laying of a wreath at the Navy Memorial, visiting the WWII memorial and the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery. Our Saturday night banquet at the hotel was excellent, complete with the hotel staff arranging a memorial table for our departed shipmates. A wonderful time was had by all who attended and we look forward to meeting again in 2006! USS CALLAGHAN (DD-792) Holiday Inn Bath, Maine August 31-September 4, 2005 Chaired by: Joe Byrnes Attendance: 50 total/16 shipmates Highlights: Shopping trips to Freeport, LL Bean and Boothbay Harbor via trolleys which were available to us during our stay. Our Memorial Service was conducted on the banks of the Kennabeck River with a color guard from the Naval Station. Visited Maine Maritime Museum with a trip to Popham, which was Maine's first settlement. Friday night we enjoyed a lobster bake at the hotel. The ceremonial flag which was flown over the US Capital building on July 29, 2005 was provided by our local congressman Tom Allen and was awarded to the oldest survivor present, who was Fred Taylor age 87. At our business meeting it was decided that our next reunion will be held in Fredericksburg, Virginia. USS GRIDLEY (DD-380) Handlery Hotel & Resort San Diego, California September 7-12, 2005 Chaired by: Bob Millhouse and John Maggio Attendance: 35 total/15 shipmates Highlights: Tours of the USS Midway Museum, San Diego Harbor and Lawrence Welk Theater for the show Gypsy. Get togethers in the reunion's hospitality room for conversation, sea stories and games. Closing with a lively banquet on Sunday night and a farewell breakfast until next year. USS McKEAN (DD/DDR-784) Adam's Mark Hotel Buffalo, New York September 9-11, 2005 Chaired by: Chuck Horvath Attendance: 94 total/25 shipmates Highlights: A celebration of 60 years since ship's commissioning, a memorial service aboard the USS LITTLE ROCK (honoring 53 departed shipmates) then a tour of the USS THE SULLIVANS, and a boat cruise on the river. The attendees then toured both sides of the US/Canadian border at Niagara Falls. Banquet speaker featured USN Recruiter LCDR James Wiggs. An auction (a meeting highlight) and subsequent meeting decided for a 2-year delay (2007) for our next reunion in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. USS PUTNAM (DD-757) Handlery Hotel and Resort San Diego, California September 8-12, 2005 Chaired by: Warren H. Savage, Jr. Attendance: 53 total/22 shipmates Highlights: Enjoyed the hospitality room. Friday attended Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Graduation and lunch at Tom Ham's Lighthouse Restaurant. Saturday--Ship's tour, USS RENTZ (FFG-46) and USS MIDWAY (CV-41). Toured Seaport Village. Sunday--Champagne brunch on the harbor--Shelter Island, Bali Hai, tour of La Jolla and the Stephen Birch Aquarium and Mt. Soledad. Monday--Farewell Breakfast. Next reunion will be in Chicago, Illinois, September 2007. USS WILLIAM R. RUSH (DD/DDR-714) Millennium Hotel, Buffalo Airport Buffalo, New York September 11-15, 2005 Chaired by: Bernard Caprera Attendance: 145 total/78 shipmates Highlights: Our meeting in Buffalo was our 7th since our beginnings over 12 years ago. From seeing the Buffalo Bills Football team in our hotel lobby, to the tours to Niagara Falls, Buffalo Naval Park and surrounding areas and, impromptu visits to the Anchor Bar & Grill, we enjoyed the camaraderie only Destroyer shipmates and their wives can enjoy. We also held a "Yankee Swap" for our wives, a "Welcome Aboard Reception", an informal "Picnic, Raffle, and Silent Auction" in the hotel's atrium, and a formal "Banquet and Awards program" with guest speaker, Col. Cunningham of the Naval Park, during the course of our most successful reunion. Our next will be held in 2007. USS BLACK (DD-666) Sam's Town Las Vegas, Nevada September 13-16, 2005 Chaired by: Sam Piearcy Attendance: 128 total/66 shipmates Highlights: This year's reunion was outstanding and even a few made some money gambling. The hospitality room was great and the banquet dinner was excellent. It was so nice to see old friends and meet new friends. USS IRWIN (DD-794) Holiday Inn--Historic District Philadelphia, Pennsylvania September 15-18, 2005 Chaired by: Ed Fields Attendance: 207 total/79 shipmates Highlights: This was our most attended reunion to date. We had shipmates from WWII, Korea and up to 1958; their wives, sons, daughters, and grandchildren, even some great grandchildren. It was truly an "Irwin Family" reunion. We toured Ground Zero and the Battleship New Jersey. We had 21 historic sites within a seven block walking area of our hotel. Truly a home away from home. Our Saturday banquet was attended by 221 shipmates, family and friends. We had quality food, accommodations, and quality time together. Every attendee received an Irwin windbreaker jacket as a welcome gift. Tin Can Sailors sent an excellent gift package which we auctioned off. USS KNAPP (DD-653) Peoria Radisson Peoria, Illinois September 15-18, 2005 Chaired by: E. Pete Smith Attendance: 95 total/50 shipmates Highlights: Thursday--dinner and entertainment--Par-A-Dice Casino. Friday--tour of Peoria; Wheels-O-Time Museum; Caterpillar, Inc. Tour; Moonlight cruise and dinner on Spirit of Peoria paddlewheel boat on the Illinois River. Saturday--Memorial Service at Riverfront Park; Ocktoberfest; business meeting; banquet. Summary--It does play in Peoria. USS STRONG (DD-467/DD-758) Millennium at Airport Buffalo, New York September 20-25, 2005 Chaired by: Peter Lemak Attendance: 106 total/54 shipmates Highlights: Visit to USS LITTLE ROCK and USS THE SULLIVANS where our memorial service was held. Tour of the Niagara Falls and lunch at the Table Rock Restaurant on the Canadian side. USS GRAYSON (DD-435) Crowne Plaza St. Louis, Missouri September 21-25, 2005 Chaired by: Dave Craigmile Attendance: 34 total/10 shipmates Highlights: Tour of the city of St. Louis. Trip to top of the Arch. The Botanical Garden, Anheuser Busch/Budweiser Brewery. Banquet with CDR. Jagger, USN, CO Navy Recruiting District. Sunday a.m. Anchors Aweigh Memorial Breakfast. USS HALSEY POWELL (DD-686) Clarion West Hotel Omaha, Nebraska September 21-25, 2005 Chaired by: Michael R. Baker Attendance: 63 total/33 shipmates Highlights: Great time enjoying each others company. Hotel, don't go there. Tour to Boys Town was wonderful as was tour to SAC Museum. Tour to Liberty Park was very disappointing, don't go there. Next year (2006) we will go to Providence, RI area. USS CURRIER (DE-700) Salina, Kansas September 22-24, 2005 Chaired by: Don and Shirley Smith Attendance: 39 total Highlights: During the three-day festive affair, the crew toured the Eisenhower Museum, home  and grounds in Abilene, KS, then the Rolling Hills Wildlife Adventure and Museum after which they were feted to a chicken dinner at the world-renowned Brooksville Hotel.  Before returning to Salina, the crew visited the Russell Stover candy factory and stocked up on “sweets”. As part of the reunion affairs, the Currier crew took time out to remember their deceased shipmates at a Memorial held at the Sunset Gardens in Salina, where VFW’s Post 1432 presented and retired the US Flag, and held a military flag folding ceremony, presenting the flag to the wife of a recently deceased highly esteemed crewmember.  The final event was a formal banquet at the Mid-America Convention Center where the Cawker City Players entertained the crew.  The Salina, KS Chamber of Commerce welcomed the USS Currier crew to Salina and provided overwhelming support. USS BALLARD (DD-267/AVD-10) LaQuinta Inn Branson, Missouri September 26-28, 2005 Attendance: 17 total/9 shipmates Highlights: This crew was the last crew to serve on the World War II vessel. We decommissioned her in Philadelphia, PA. I understand it was sold to Gillette Razor Company. It was voted to be the last reunion of the BALLARD. Due to age of crew and the hardship of today's travel. Someone needs to interview the Captain, Nichandros--he has a lot to tell about the old flushdeck destroyers, especially the BALLARD. USS HILARY P. JONES (DD-427) Best Western Airport Inn Albany, New York September 26-29, 2005 Chaired by: Al Malcomson and Pam Dundon Attendance: 21 total/7 shipmates Highlights: This was our thirtieth reunion. Everyone met at a memorial service in the Downtown Visitors Center. It was held near the USS ALBANY ship's bell. 4-2-7 was struck to honor the deceased crew members from the past thirty Jones reunions. A cruise on one of the Aqua Ducks was next, touring the downtown area and on the Hudson River. We went past a replica of the Hendrick Hudson sailing ship and the USS SLATER tied up at the Snow dock. Lunch was at the Purple Pub. Day tow, a short bus trip downtown to visit the New York State Educational Museum. A 911 exhibit with actual artifacts from the Ground Zero area was interesting to everyone. A banquet at the Inn in the evening and breakfast Thursday morning, also at the Inn, terminated with everyone eager to meet again in 2006. USS WILKES (DD-441) Holiday Inn-Airport Asheville, North Carolina September 26-30, 2005 Chaired by: Floren James Attendance: 42 total/15 shipmates Highlights: A tour of the Blue Ridge Parkway and an introduction to the beautiful crafts of the area, a tour to the Biltmore Estate and Winery and the ship's banquet. The banquet speaker was Capt. John Davenport, retired survivor of the USS OKLAHOMA when it was sunk at Pearl Harbor. It was interesting to note that the whole Pearl Harbor attack only lasted about one-half hour. Joe LePage, son of a deceased shipmate was elected President of the USS WILKES Association. The 2006 reunion will be held in Connecticut. USS UHLMANN (DD-687) Boardwalk Hotel Las Vegas, Nevada September 27-30, 2005 Chaired by: Bob "Jim" Jimenez Attendance: 110 total/47 shipmates Highlights: We enjoyed tours of the Hoover Dam, the Ethel M. Chocolate Factory, and the backstage workings of Balley's Stage Show. Our banquet included our guest speaker, Jim Jefferies of the Navy League, as well as the presentation of the colors by the El Dorado High School Navy Jr. ROTC Color Guard. A great time was had by all. USS CONE (DD-866) Howard Johnson's Green Bay, Wisconsin September 28-October 2, 2005 Chaired by: Jerry O'Dell Attendance: 37 total/18 shipmates Highlights: Small turn-out. Great camaraderie, excellent time, delicious food, weather good. Enjoyed men's tour of EAA Air Museum and lunch, women's day at Door County shopping and lunch. Tour for all, of Lambeau Field, Green Bay Football Hall of Fame, Taste of Green Bay Dinner, hosted by Jerry O'Dell. Successful meeting; have sites for next four years. An ornament exchange for the ladies. Banquet with champagne punch, frozen tundra ice cream. All looking forward to next years fun in Maryland. USS EVERGLADES (AD-24) Radisson Northbrook, Illinois September 28-October 2, 2005 Chaired by: Ronald Curtis Attendance: 78 total/33 shipmates Highlights: Attendees at our 20th annual reunion enjoyed four days in the Chicago area. The itinerary included: a city tour of Chicago, dinner cruise on Lake Michigan and a trip to the Museum of Science and Industry. Our banquet on Saturday evening included guest speaker, HMZ(FMF) Alan Dementer, a bronze star recipient while on duty in Iraq. USS OZBOURN (DD-846) Airport Radisson Hotel Charleston, South Carolina September 28-October 2, 2005 Attendance: 80 total Highlights: Our seventh semi-annual reunion. In addition to the camaraderie enjoyed by shipmates, there were several tours of the Charleston area. First was a trip to Fort Sumter where the opening shots of the Civil War were fired followed by a bus tour of the city. That evening we enjoyed dinner on board a cruise vessel while we traveled through Charleston Harbor. Other activities were a trip to Patriot's Point where the destroyer LAFFEY (DD-724) and the aircraft carrier YORKTOWN (CV-10) are moored and on Saturday a tour of the Boone Hall Plantation. The latter is noteworthy because a photo of the entry driveway was used in the old classic "Gone With the Wind." A memorial service commemorating our departed shipmates was held on board the YORKTOWN. We were honored at our banquet on Saturday evening with an address by Prof. Clark Reynolds, one of the leading historians of naval aviation. He recounted the destroyer experiences of Admiral "Jocko" Clark before he left for a career as a naval aviator. The reunion concluded with breakfast on Sunday morning. USS GWIN (DM-33) Crown Plaza St. Louis, Missouri September 29-October 2, 2005 Chaired by: Larry Loss Attendance: 13 shipmates Highlights: Arch visit. Reunion was held in conjunction with Naval Mine Warfare Association. USS STURTEVANT (DE-239) Fairfield (Market Square) San Antonio, Texas October 3-9, 2005 Chaired by: William White Attendance: 30 total/15 shipmates Highlights: Small attendance due to changes and short notice. Everyone had a great time renewing old friendships and reliving past stories. Great location. Next reunion to be held at Virginia Beach in June 2007. USS MONSSEN (DD-798) Settle Inn Branson, Missouri October 6-9, 2005 Chaired by: Earl A. McClure Attendance: 21 total/10 shipmates Highlights: 2 of the 10 shipmates were WWII veterans. The rest served on the USS MONSSEN (DD-798) between 1951 and 1959. The group voted to have 2006 reunion in the Boston, MA area. The shows we saw in Branson were very good. The Jim Stafford show was outstanding. USS ARNOLD J. ISBELL (DD-869) Radisson Old Town Alexandria, Virginia October 7-9, 2005 Chaired by: Barry Dahlberg Attendance: 40 total/20 shipmates Highlights: Twenty shipmates, including 4 plank owners and twenty guests attended. Registration and an evening reception were held Friday, October 7. A memorial service was held at the Lone Sailor Memorial in Washington, DC on Saturday, October 8. After a buffet dinner, Sunday, October 9, Master of Ceremonies, Bill "Bear" Kelly, introduced our guest speaker, Captain Albert Shimkus, NC, USN, Deputy Commandant Naval District, Washington. USS DAVID W. TAYLOR (DD-551) Comfort Inn & Suites Decatur, Alabama October 12-14, 2005 Chaired by: Robert J. Strehle Attendance: 47 total/20 shipmates Highlights: Toured 3M film plant and Boeing Rocket Factory Historic Old Bank of Civil War era. The employees of the 3M plant lined the streets of the plant facility waving flags as we passed by. The citizens of Decatur expressed their gratitude for the sacrifices we made to fight for the freedom they now enjoy. This was spontaneous and these old sailors were overcome with emotion with such a display of gratitude. USS FRONTIER (AD-25) Radisson Beach Hotel Corpus Christi, Texas October 20-23, 2005 Chaired by: Robert Smith Attendance: 67 total/40 shipmates Highlights: Thursday, check in, was followed by a welcome reception, including hors d'oeuvres in cocktail lounge. Friday, an outstanding chartered bus trip to a day long Texas BBQ on the cattle ranch of one of our members, William Rudellat. A side trip to see his neighbor's antique collections including 20 plus restored cars and farm tractors. Saturday, tours aboard the USS LEXINGTON or Texas State Aquarium, afternoon business meeting, followed by pre-dinner cocktail hour, photos and then the prime rib banquet dinner including a memorial service. Sunday, private buffet breakfast and saying goodbye until the next reunion in San Diego in Oct. 2007. NEWPORT DEALEYS (DE-1006, 1014, 1015, 1021, 1022, 1027, 1028, 1029, 1030) Holiday Inn, Airport Jacksonville, Florida October 20-23, 2005 Chaired by: Charles J. Holzschun Attendance: 138 total/78 shipmates Highlights: We had a wonderful time touring the USS JOHN F. KENNEDY in Mayport, FL. It was inspiring to see all the young faces of the KENNEDY crew remembering that was the way we were 45 years ago. We honored the USS HARLEY (DE-1029), which was transferred to the Colombian Navy and became their ARC Boyaca (DE-16). We welcomed two former members of the Boyaca crew who told us how the ship was used by the Colombian Navy. We were updated on the project to convert the last remains of the Hartley/Boyaca into a museum type tourist attraction in Guatape, Colombia. USS ALLEN M. SUMNER (DD-692) Clarion Hotel at the Palace Branson, Missouri October 27-30, 2005 Chaired by: Joe and Dottie Gall, Jack and Ann McCormack Attendance: 121 total/67 shipmates Highlights: Memorial service for WWII KIA. Thursday and Friday All Hands buffet. Saturday night banquet and dance Sunday morning goodbye breakfast. Stage shows like Andy Williams and Irish dancers. Everyone had a chance to go with friends to all kinds of entertainment including train ride and Branson Belle Dinner and Showboat. Annual meeting and election of officers. USS CORRY (DD/DDR-817) Grand Hotel Cape May, NJ November 3-6, 2005 Chaired by: Jim Shaftic Highlights: Thursday evening we held a buffet to welcome shipmates and guests. Friday there was a tour of Cape May and later a bus to Atlantic City. On Saturday we toured the Cape May Coast Guard Base and then had a luncheon and a dolphin cruise. That evening we held our banquet. next year, our reunion will be in Pensacola, FL. USS JOHN PAUL JONES (DD-230, DD-932, DDG-32, DDG-53) Handlery Resort & Hotel San Diego, California February 16-20, 2006 Chaired by: John McKechnie Attendance: 41 shipmates Highlights: The group was graciously hosted by currently in commission DDG-53 for a day tour on Saturday at 32nd St. Naval Station. The group also visited the San Diego Maritime Museum featuring a Russian 1970's FOXTROT submarine, B-39, in addition to the 1863 Star of India, a full rigged sailing ship, "HMS Surprise" replica of a Royal Navy 18th century frigate from the movie Master and Commander and four other historic ships. An all day city tour was also part of the package. Our long running Association President, Captain A.R. Olsen, Jr. USN (Ret), DD-932 CO, retired and turned the reigns over to our new president, Doug Weiser, DDG-32 and VP Bob Hildebrand, DDG-32. Carry over officers are Secy. Pete Maytham and Treas. John McKechnie. The highlight of the reunion was our banquet speaker CDR James Housinger, CO DDG-53 bringing us up to date on today's Navy and our ship. Guests from the ship included the XO LCDR Kristen Stengel, Command Master Chief Charlie Ratliff, Bull Ensign ENS Figel, SC, and Lt. (jg) Spencer our tour coordinator. Next reunion will be held in Newport, RI in the fall of 2007. USS ROBINSON (DD-562) Quail Run Lodge Savannah, Georgia April 14-15, 2006 Chaired by: Carl Slack Attendance: 14 total/8 shipmates Highlights: This was a special reunion held in Savannah because the last four years the Robinson was in commission it was a reserve trainer and the reserve units assigned were from Savannah, Georgia. USS YOSEMITE (AD-19) Admiral Semmes Radisson Mobile, Alabama April 19-23, 2006 Chaired by: Military Reunion Planners Attendance: 65 total/35 shipmates Highlights: The nice weather in Mobile was great. We went on a few tours and one riverboat cruise and dinner. The people at the hotel were OK and service at the hotel was not the best. The hotel was old and had a lot of trouble, etc. USS HARRY F. BAUER (DM-26) Savannah, Georgia April 23-27, 2006 Attendance: 36 total Highlights: Believe it or not, it was great weather during the 50th anniversary celebration of the decommissioning of the "Can with the Bam!" A grand total of 36 happy people swapped sea stories, attended meetings and frolicked like kids in the picturesque southern city for a really long weekend. During the 2006 meeting, all officers were unanimously, and with a standing "O", re-elected. Rip Ruopoli "The Bowler" will continue to lead the group as president. Ed Thorne, "The fisherman from New York City" will remain as treasurer. Jim Whalen, "Mr. Business" will continue as Vice President, and Toni Vasquez "Snow White among the dwarfs" remains in the Secretary's chair. Attendees came from California, New Hampshire, Florida, Massachusetts, Maine. . .and on, and on, and on. . .North, South, East, and West. They toured, shopped, played Bingo (Everyone got  "really cool" prize, and they chowed down on Georgia's best food. . .including 15 pizza's ordered especially for the bingo games. Almost half the reunion crowd watches Paula Dean's television program on the Food Channel, so they just had to visit her Savannah restaurant. Believe it or not, they hired a small bus to take them to her "Food Heaven" for lunch and, to say the least, it was most successful. They loved the place. Before heading home, the membership voted to meet in Washington, D.C. in 2007. . .and everyone immediately filled with anticipation of another "Blast from the past"!! Then it came time for the big, scrumptious dinner with all hands aboard. This time it was beautifully catered by one of Savannah's finest chefs. Our requested meals, made before our very eyes! Praises for the caterer were heard from all sections of the dining room and, like they say. . ."A good time was had by all." USS JOSEPH STRAUSS (DDG-16) Holiday Inn Conference Center Virginia Beach, Virginia April 23-27, 2006 Chaired by: John Aldredge Attendance: 66 total/30 shipmates Highlights: Visits to Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, Virginia. Air and Space Museum at Hampton, tour of Naval Station norfolk, Harbor lunch cruise on "Spirit of Norfolk", Nauticus and Wisconsin (BB-61). USS MACOMB (DD-458/DMS-23/USS DOYLE (DD-494/DMS-34) Victorian Condo Hotel Galveston, Texas April 26-30, 2006 Chaired by: Terry McManuels Attendance: 48 total/37 shipmates Highlights: The reunion began Thursday with an open-air train tour of the island's many historical sites. There was free time in the afternoon to check out old town Galveston. The evening concluded with a pizza party in the hospitality room. Friday morning began with a tour of the Lone Star Flight Museum and Aviation Hall of Fame. The planes from World War II era and after are operational and fly in many air shows. We next toured Moody Gardens where we enjoyed visiting the aquarium, the rain forest and an exhibit on bones. There was also an IMAX movie about sharks and other sea creatures. Saturday, at the business meeting, it was decided that next year's reunion would be in Memphis, TN. Due to bad weather an outdoor memorial service for deceased shipmates had to be cancelled and held at the banquet Saturday evening. At the conclusion of the banquet there were lots of good-byes, hugs and kisses and the phrase "see you next year." USS LLOYD THOMAS (DD/DDE-764) Boston, Massachusetts Area May 4-7, 2006 Chaired by: Bob Scherrer Attendance: 126 total/63 shipmates Highlights: The USS Lloyd Thomas (DD/DDE-764) reunion in New England proved to be a wonderful and rewarding success. Of special note was the gorgeous weather the group experienced during our touring excursions. Thursday 4 May, the group bused to Newport, touring some of the more accessible base facilities, War College Museum and lunch at the "Old Man's Club". The group motor toured "The Mansions", downtown Newport, the Ocean Beaches and other sights of interest. On Friday May 5th, the group boarded "The DUCKS" for our inner city Boston tour. Included were the Golden Domed State House, Bunker Hill, Fleet Center, Boston Commons and Copley square to the "Big Dig", Government Center to Newbury Street where we "DUCKED" into the Charles River. The cruise highlighted the Boston and Cambridge skylines, debarking at Faneuil Hall for lunch at an eatery of their choice. The group then visited "Old Ironsides" at the Navy Yard and the USS Cassin Young (DD-793). Approximately 2/3rds of the group attended a dinner show featuring "Trooper Dan" in Westport. Saturday the 6th the group toured Battleship Cove and the USS Massachusetts, USS Lionfish, USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr, the Russian built SCUD missile corvette Hiddensee, PT boats 617 and 796 and an LCM. It was on the "Big Mamie" that we conducted our Memorial Service, which included a Wreath Laying. The Battleship actually runs a "MESS". Here, the group had a very nice lunch. We concluded with a dinner/dance. Anyone wishing information regarding the above presentation should feel free to contact Bob Scherrer at scherrerva@aol.com. DESDIV 59/60 USS DUPONT (DD-152), USS BERNADOU (DD-153), USS ELLIS (DD-154), USS COLE (DD-155), USS DALLAS (DD-199) Howard Johnson Springfield, Illinois May 10-14, 2006 Chaired by: Louis D. Segal Attendance: 44 total/23 shipmates Highlights: Visited Lincoln Tomb, new Lincoln Memorial Museum and many other sites. Banquet at the hotel. Speaker was a returning sergeant from Iraq. USS WALTER B. COBB (APD-106) Comfort Inn--The Pointe Niagara Falls, New York June 4-8, 2006 Chaired by: James G. Plough Attendance: 52 total/28 shipmates Highlights: Shipmates from 21 states enjoyed the beauty of Niagara. A tour of the Naval Park in Buffalo followed by lunch of chicken, wings and pizza at the famous Anchor Bar was enjoyed by all. Another tour of Niagara Falls with a ride on the Maid of the Mist the following day. Fireworks on Sunday night was an unexpected surprise. USS ORLECK (DD-886) Wilmington Hilton Riverside Hotel Wilmington, North Carolina June 22-25, 2006 Chaired by: Bob Orleck, Nephew of Lt. Joseph Orleck Attendance: 230 total/122 shipmates Highlights: Our 9th reunion brought us back to the East Coast. During the days people were transported around by an old trolley dedicated to their use and were treated to a horse drawn carriage ride and more. The highlight was the opening night in the Grand Ball Room at the Hilton. A fabulous steak dinner was served on the evening that would have been Lt. Joseph Orleck's 100th birthday had he survived. We experienced a showing of the professionally filmed Arlington Memorial Service for Lt. Orleck with Senator Bob Dole as our guest speaker. The movie was filmed, produced and set to music by professional moviemaker, Matt Michelson, son of Bob Michelson, USS ORLECK sailor. Following this emotional movie, a survivor from the USS NAUSET (AT-89), William Mutert, came and told the harrowing details of German bombs from high above landing on the deck of the NAUSET, spreading fire, destruction, death and injury throughout the vessel and the heroic actions taken by Joe Orleck on that fateful day as he watched his shipmate and Captain perish right before his eyes. The night was captivating and brought to an end by the special and fabulous singing group from Vermont, "The Woods Tea Company" and their combination of singing and humor had the audience in their hands for a 3-hour fantastic show. Friday night we had a relaxing dinner banquet aboard the Riverboat Henrietta II and live music by Jazz Guitarist El Jaye Johnson. Saturday was very special as we were transported to the USS NORTH CAROLINA by a converted Navy Launch and enjoyed a ribs dinner catered by Sticky Fingers. Chaplain Joe Correa conducted a moving Memorial Service and Wreath Ceremony during which 350 flags were presented in honor of those ORLECK sailors who have died. This was followed by an eye-opening talk by former USS ORLECK sailor who later in his career became Admiral John Bepko. Sunday at our church service we said our farewells until 2008 in Little Rock, Arkansas. USS SEMMES (DDG-18) Holiday Inn Grand Island, New York June 23-27, 2006 Chaired by: Tom Camann Attendance: 87 total/43 shipmates Highlights: Day at the Falls tour, Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist were highlights. Grand lady cruises took us on the Niagara River from Holiday Inn to Buffalo Naval Park where a memorial service was held on the USS LITTLE ROCK. The Lockport Locks Erie Canal Cruise was held on Monday along with a fantastic farewell dinner at the hotel. USS CARON (DD-970) Norfolk Airport Hilton Norfolk, Virginia July 20-23, 2006 Chaired by: Donald Pennington, Jr. Attendance: 62 total/48 shipmates Highlights: Events included a tour of the USS ARLEIGH BURKE (DDG-51), a memorial service for our fallen shipmates was held aboard the USS WISCONSIN (BB-64) in historic Downtown Norfolk followed by a personalized tour of the ship. A dinner banquet was held on Saturday evening with three former Commanding Officer's in attendance where they shared a few of t heir tales of commanding such a great destroyer. Also honored at the banquet were CARON's first two OMBUDSMEN. The decision to form the USS CARON Sailor's Association was made and her first officer's were elected. Also, plans are in place to hold a reunion next year at Camp Le Jeune in Jacksonville, NC commemorating CARON's 30th anniversary of her commissioning at the HM3 Wayne M. Caron medical Clinic where the helm and lee helm assembly off of CARON are located. USS FECHTELER (DD/DDR-870) Sheraton Waterside Norfolk, Virginia July 30-August 3, 2006 Chaired by: Robert Webb Attendance: 30 total/16 shipmates Highlights: Good reunion. Poor hotel. USS TRUXTUN (CGN-35) Hampton Inn & Suites Bremerton, Washington August 2-6, 2006 Chaired by: Jerry Lane Attendance: 99 total/51 shipmates Highlights: Attendees enjoyed a Seattle City Tour, Blake Island Indian Salmon Dinner and Show, and a KITSAP Penninsula Tour. Dinner was Saturday night at Naval Base KITSAP (Bangor) Club. Two of the ships ten commanding officers attended. USS CHARLES H. ROAN (DD-853) Branson, Missouri August 8, 2006 Chaired by: Richard Souza Attendance: 215 total/100 shipmates Highlights: Excellent entertainment with a memorial for our departed shipmates and veterans before boarding the Branson Belle for a lake dinner cruise. DESDIV 38 DD-609/610/611/628 Seaport Marina Long Beach, California August 9-13, 2006 Attendance: 36 total/21 shipmates Highlights: Queen Mary tour, Titanic Exhibit, Harbor Cruise and Long Beach Aquarium. USS RICHARD B. ANDERSON (DD-786) San Mateo Marriott San Mateo, California August 16-20, 2006 Chaired by: John Bedford Attendance: 52 total/34 shipmates Highlights: Included a sunset dinner cruise on San Francisco Bay, Wine Country tour, City of San Francisco tour, a visit to the USS Hornet Museum and lots of food. Our group had a warm and fuzzy reunion with laughter and enjoyment being the primary objective. USS O'HARE (DD/DDR-889) Chicago, Illinois Click here for photos USS MEYERKORD (DE/FF-1058) Quality Inn Suites San Diego, California August 17-20, 2006 Chaired by: Raymond R. Robbins Attendance: 41 total/25 shipmates Highlights: Reunion was held at San Diego, CA. Various activities were done, including tour of USS MIDWAY (CV-41), harbor dinner cruise, tour of US Navy Installations. All had a great time and want to have another reunion around 2-3 years from now. Notification will be posted for next reunion after committee meets. USS HARLAN R. DICKSON (DD-708) Sheraton--Station Square Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania September 3-7, 2006 Chaired by: George McCardel and Phillip Leasure Attendance: 65 total/37 shipmates Highlights: We toured Heinz Stadium--home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. had our Memorial Service at the Soldiers and Sailors National Military Museum. Enjoyed a dinner cruise on the Gateway Clipper. We toured Penn Brewery and had a delicious lunch there. The John Kelly Memorial Banquet closed the reunion. Our time spent at the Sheraton--Station Square was most enjoyable. USS HUNT (DD-674) Holiday Inn Select Naperville, Illinois September 6-11, 2006 Chaired by: Ron and Martha Ritchie Attendance: 48 total/27 shipmates Highlights: 18th reunion and continuing. We had a nice Hospitality Room on the first floor. Hosted by John and Lori Cummings. Day one was registration and camaraderie in the Hospitality Room. This was followed the next day with a bus trip in Chicago to go up the John Hancock building and to the Navy Pier for lunch. This was followed by a quick cruise on the Chicago River and then back to Naperville. The next day was an early departure to attend the Graduation Ceremony at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. We had a nice lunch on the grounds at the Port of our departed shipmates. The following day was a bit of a long bus ride to the Museum of Science and Industry in the south part of Chicago. Lunch was on our own and several people got to tour the only German U-boat taken on the high seas during wartime (U505). Sunday we had our board and general meetings and then went to our fine banquet with the nice table pieces (lighthouses) made by Susie Wilson. These were later distributed to different people as raffle prizes. There was a fine vocalist who entertained all during the banquet then we went to the hospitality room for our 50/50 drawing. During the reunion there were many fun games played in the hospitality room and I did hear a few complaints about the Englehardts winning all the time. Monday was the anniversary of the 9/11 attack on the USA and we said our so longs until 2007 in Boise, Idaho with Craig Kern at the helm. USS WEBER (DE-675/APD-75) Comfort Inn Suites Albany, New York September 6-10, 2006 Chaired by: Joe Retcho Attendance: 37 total/13 shipmates Highlights: Our 16th reunion. Visited the Baseball Hall of Fame, toured Cedar Mill, went on board the USS SLATER (DE-766) and all the shipmates were reminiscing their navy days and showing their wives and guests where they slept and worked. After that we cruised the Hudson on a luncheon cruise on the Dutch Apple. To top the reunion we rode an Aqua Duck through Albany, had our ship's dinner at the hotel restaurant. Another great reunion. USS COGHLAN (DD-606) Doubletree Hotel--Portland Lloyd Center Portland, Oregon September 7-10, 2006 Chaired by: Gene Ross Attendance: 40 total/15 shipmates Highlights: Our banquet entertainment, a piano and bass duo was a big hit. This duo played music from the WWII era, which prompted singing and dancing among the banquet attendees. The bass player served in the Navy after the Korean War. The piano player is the daughter of a deceased WWII Army Air Corp vet. She came dressed in a WWII Army Air Corp uniform with vintage hair-do and make-up. She also brought WWII memorabilia she's collected from her father as well as from other veterans who see her in the lobby of the local VA hospital where she and the bass player volunteer their music every Tuesday. USS RICHARD P. LEARY (DD-664) Hilton Dulles Airport Herndon, Virginia September 7-10, 2006 Chaired by: Nicholas Hoyda Attendance: 80 total/22 shipmates Highlights: WWII Memorial, Iwo Jima, Arlington and the Changing of the Guard, the White House Tour and the camaraderie in the Hospitality Room. TIN CAN SAILORS CHAT ROOM Maierhafer Home and The Village Inn Wapaca, Wisconsin Chaired by: Leon Maierhafer Attendance: 6 shipmates/11 total Highlights: We participated in the Horse and Buggy Day Annual parade with the VFW riding in Leon's restored 57 Ford convertible. Next we visited a cheese factory. Then to a cheese store where we stocked up on a good supply of cheese. A model RR layout at one of Leon's friends home; a ride down the Wolf River on a Pontoon boat stopping for dinner at a riverside restaurant, The Slip Knot; also visited a farm experimenting with the use of manure in making methane gas. Otherwise we enjoyed good food and drink at the Maierhafter farm with a lot of talk and sea stories. Our first reunion was held in 2004 at Santa Fe, Texas at Tom Marling's home. Only four members attended. USS GOLDSBOROUGH (DDG-20) Four Queens Las Vegas, Nevada September 10-15, 2006 Chaired by: Thomas L. Weaver Attendance: 76 total/40 shipmates Highlights: This is our greatest attendance to date. We attended a BBQ dinner at Bonnie Springs Old Nevada, a dinner cruise on Lake Meade, a tour of Valley of Fire and a tour of the Thunderbird Hanger at Nellis Air Force Base. I heard only praise for all functions. USS CHEVALIER (DD-805) Days Inn Sault Ste Marie, Michigan September 12-16, 2006 Chaired by: Bill Hoffman Attendance: 94 total/45 shipmates Highlights: Our group had great accommodations at the Days Inn due to efforts of Christina Jump and staff. Studebaker Restaurant and Lounge had Early Bird Buffet dinner on September 13; a golf tournament September 14; tour boat trip through the Soo Locks September 15 that included a prayer for the traditional salute to our deceased buddies and lying of the wreath. Tours of the Ore Boat Museum Ship, Valley Camp; the Army Corps of Engineers Park and Museum alongside the Soo Locks; some visited Mackinac Island. A dinner banquet held September 16 closed the week. USS CALDWELL (DD-605) Holiday Inn-Independence Ohio Cleveland, Ohio September 13-16, 2006 Chaired by: Clarence Osborn Attendance: 30 total/14 shipmates Highlights: Lolly the Trolley was our transportation. We toured the city, lunched at a wonderful Polish restaurant, toured the Federal Reserve Bank, some went to the Indians vs. Minnesota baseball game. We toured the Westside Market and had a luncheon cruise on the Nautica Queen. Awards and tributes were given at our final banquet as we were serenaded by David Kasper, Megan Clay and Eric Banbic. We'll meet again in one year. Everyone had a great time. USS EVERETT F. LARSON (DDR/DD-830) Sheraton Mission Valley San Diego, California September 13-17, 2006 Chaired by: John (Jack) Palmer Attendance: 115 total/62 shipmates Highlights: The Sheraton Hotel sponsored a welcome party the first evening. The next day was a tour of the USS MIDWAY with individual phones that described the many activities aboard a carrier. That afternoon a harbor cruise was conducted, which included a memorial service. The next day the group had a guided bus tour of San Diego and Coronado. Saturday included the business meeting in the morning and banquet in the evening, which included a high school NJROTC Color Guard and entertainment by a high school choir. The DJ took over for the remainder of the evening. The 2007 Reunion will be at Wright-Patterson in Ohio with Tom Nordquest as coordinator. See Larson web site for upcoming details at www.uss-everett-f-larson.com. USS JAMES C. OWENS (DD-776) Clarion Hotel Branson, Missouri September 13-16, 2006 Chaired by: W. Keith Nelson Attendance: 126 total/63 shipmates Highlights: Toured Veteran's Memorial Museum, Showboat Branson Belle and Celebrate America Show. Had a great banquet and dance. Visit our web site at http//www/jcowensdd776.org. USS McCAFFERY (DD/DDE-860) Holiday Inn Buffalo-Amherst Buffalo, New York September 13-16, 2006 Chaired by: Bill and Evelyn Maslak Attendance: 230 total/120 shipmates from 31 states and Puerto Rico Highlights: Early daily continental breakfast and camaraderie in the hospitality room (open into late evening). Complimentary wine and cheese. Over several days we toured: the Erie Canal and Locks; RoundAbout Niagara, viewing the spectacular falls from both sides of the border; had a great lunch high above the Canadian Falls; got wet on the Maid of the Mist; walked the decks and passageways of USS LITTLE ROCK (CG-4/CL-92); the national historic landmark THE SULLIVANS (DD-537); and the WWII sub USS CROAKER (SS-246). Picked up a few coins at the casinos but probably dropped more (but it was fun). Ended the reunion with great hors d'oeuvres and excellent buffet dinner to the nostalgic music of the Barroom Buzzards. Next reunion in 2008 at Great Lakes Training Center.           USS WEISS (APD-135) Holiday Inn Express (Airport) Nashville, TN September 13-17, 2006 Chaired by: Paul S. Rubin Attendance: 43 total/23 shipmates Highlights: Enjoyable tours, great food, renewed friendships and held a very meaningful memorial at the Tennessee World War II Memorial, conducted by USS WEISS Association members. USS HANK (DD-702) Best Western Grenfield Inn Allen Park, Michigan September 14-16, 2006 Chaired by: Michael B. Carrier Attendance: 109 total/60 shipmates Highlights: Presentation of the ship's actual bell, restored by the Conner family and the Memorial Ceremony. This included wreath laying ceremony, Honor Guard, beautiful rendition of America the Beautiful and ringing of the USS HANK Bell for deceased shipmates. Toured Ford Rouge plant, Henry For Museum, Grosse Pointe War memorial and Greenfield Village. USS SHELTON (DD-790) Double Tree Guest Suites Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania September 14-17, 2006 Chaired by: Richard Petrowich Attendance: 44 total/21 shipmates Highlights: We toured Valley Forge National Park, American Helicopter Museum, QVC Shopping Center on Friday, Sept. 15. Saturday we toured the USS New Jersey including lunch on board, after lunch toured the Liberty Bell and New Constitution Hall. Banquet Saturday evening included Memorial Service for shipmates who died during the past year. USS TAYLOR (DD/DDE-468) Sheraton Gateway Hotel Burlingame, California September 14-18, 2006 Chaired by: Jim O'Neill, Tom Orosz and Otto Zipf Attendance: 91 total/44 shipmates Highlights: TAYLOR's 15th reunion gathered together 44 TAYLOR sailors, widows, families and friends. Four attendees are 1942 plank owners. Some were in Tokyo Bay with USS MISSOURI on 2 September 1945. Others were on board in 1969 when TAYLOR was turned over to Italy. our "Tolling of the Bell" ceremony honored 42 deceased shipmates. This included 5 plank owners and 2 CO's. We enjoyed a tour of three Napa Valley/Sonoma wineries. The grand banquet on the last evening was enjoyed by all. Looking forward to the 2008 reunion, which will be somewhere back east. USS WOOLSEY (DD-437) Airport Best Western Milwaukee, Wisconsin September 14-17, 2006 Chaired by: Robert Cohen Attendance: 25 total/9 shipmates Highlights: Visit to Veterans Memorial, Calitrava Art Museum and Pier Wisconsin. Graduation Ceremony at Great Lakes, tour of base and museum. Annual Business meeting and determination to hold reunion in 2007. Location and dates to be announced later. USS CAPODANNO (FF-1093) Ramada on the Beach Virginia Beach, Virginia September 15-17, 2006 Chaired by: David Campbell Attendance: 85 total/55 shipmates Highlights: We welcomed 18 new crew members to our 5th reunion. Everyone had a great time. We are currently planning our 6th reunion which is being held in Oakbrook, IL at the DoubleTree Hotel on September 6-9, 2007. For more information check out our website at usscapodanno.org or contact David Campbell at (727) 385-7121. Hope to see you at "our" reunion. USS ROSS (DD-563) Garden Hotel--Historic Savannah Savannah, Georgia September 16-20, 2006 Chaired by: Lloyd D. Collins Attendance: 65 total/24 shipmates Highlights: Our reunion was great. Our group visited the 8th Air Force Museum and took a tour of Historic Savannah. We were blessed to have six WWII attendees in our group. The hotel and food was great. A good time was had by all. USS FORREST SHERMAN (DD-931) Dunes Manor Hotel Ocean City, Maryland September 17-21, 2006 Chaired by: Kurt Wagemann Attendance: 187 total/111 shipmates Highlights: Excellent reception, great hotel. Well-attended banquet with talk by TCS President Chan Zucker, presentation to CDR Michael Van Durick, CO of USS FORREST SHERMAN (DDG-98), Maryland Crab Feast at famous Hooper's Crab House, business meeting and election of officers. Our next reunion will be held in 2008. USS HIGBEE (DD/DDR-806) Holiday Inn Bayside San Diego, CA September 17-21, 2006 Chaired by: Gil "Rod" Rodello Attendance: 49 shipmates/87 total Highlights: We started off with a welcome reception sponsored by the hotel on Sunday evening. Tours included a dinner-harbor cruise on Monday evening and a San Diego sightseeing and luncheon tour on Tuesday which included a stop at Seaport Village and the old Naval Training Center. A very successful silent auction was held with items donated by attendees. The hospitality room, hotel staff and accommodations were excellent. Five plank owners attended the reunion. The reunion culminated with a dinner-dance Wednesday night and a farewell breakfast on Thursday. The next reunion is scheduled for September 19-23, 2007 at Embassy Suites Hotel in Deerfield, Illinois. USS JOHN R. PIERCE (DD-753) Elms Resort Excelsior Springs, Missouri September 17-21, 2006 Chaired by: Roderick Kent Attendance: 45 total/27 shipmates Highlights: A one day tour of President Truman's library and Museum, Treasure of the Steamboat Arabias,  Minature Toy Museum. Met people from the USS Frank Evans (DD-754). Meeting with shipmates and guests in our hospitality room. Tin Can Sailors donation fro door prize given at our banquet. USS MUGFORD (DD-389) USS GLEAVES (DD-423) Colonnade Hotel and Resort Branson, Missouri September 17-22, 2006 Chaired by: Carl E. Wilson Attendance: 41 total/11 shipmates Highlights: Everyone enjoyed the shows and dinners with enough time to do some shopping other other shows. There were 41 present from 15 different cities from the west coast to the east coast. USS HULL (DD-350) Four Queens Las Vegas, Nevada September 19-21, 2006 Chaired by: Pat Douhan Attendance: 51 total/11 shipmates Highlights: A very emotional reunion for it was decided it would be our last one. Having one every year for the past 22 years and the attending shipmates down to 11, it was time. Those attending were Pearl Harbor survivors and Typhoon Cobra survivors and a couple of both. We all had a good time but good-byes were difficult. USS HULL (DD-945) Plaza Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, Nevada September 19-22, 2006 Chaired by: Robert Modell Attendance: 111 total/69 shipmates Highlights: Shipmates, spouses and guests of the USS Hull (DD-945) attended their second bi-annual reunion. With a strong turnout of over 120 persons the group enjoyed meeting many former shipmates and making new friends. They were later joined at the banquet dinner by members and guests of the former USS Hull (DD-350), who shared heartfelt stories of their service during World War II. DD-350 sank during the 1944 typhoon. USS HARWOOD (DD-861) Best Western Executive Inn Seattle, Washington September 20-24, 2006 Chaired by: Rita and Bill Wilson, Tony Jandron Attendance: 67 total/35 shipmates Highlights: Tours to Boeing Aircraft Museum, USS Turner Joy and Downtown Seattle. Slides in the Hospitality Room, Saturday banquet with Memorial Service for departed shipmates. USS HAGGARD (DD-555) Crowne Plaza-Clayton St. Louis, Missouri September 20-24, 2006 Chaired by: Raymond Ruzicka Attendance: 63 total/26 shipmates Highlights: Memorial Service at Jefferson Barracks Veteran's Cemetery with Honor Guard of VFW volunteers. Visit to Grant's Farm, the Anheuser Busch estate near St. Louis where Clydesdale horses are bred. We had a guided train tour through the Deer Park to the Barnhof, where there is a small zoo, a museum and a place where visitors can relax, eat and drink. City tour through Forest Park, largest city park, historic church tour in downtown St. Louis, lunch and tour at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church. Hotel banquet dinner attended by 82 people--friends and family of attendees. USS TRATHEN (DD-530) Sheraton Baton Rouge, Louisiana September 21-23, 2006 Chaired by: Ron Keeler Attendance: 45 total/21 shipmates Highlights: Late cancellations reduced turnout, but those attending had a good reunion. Highlights were tours to St. Francisville, two plantations, WWII Museum and Memorial Service on USS KIDD. New president is J. Merritt Graves. New VPs are Dean Cline and Gary Ytreeide. USS FRANKS (DD-554) Ramada Inn Essington (Philadelphia), Pennsylvania September 26-29, 2006 Chaired by: Michael Bak, Jr. Attendance: 28 total/13 shipmates Highlights: On September 28, 2006 13 crewmen and families gathered on the main deck of the USS NEW JERSEY (BB-62) for a reunion and to remember a horrific event that took place on both ships 61 years ago. The FRANKS was involved in a collision with the USS NEW JERSEY on April 22, 1945. Nine of the FRANKS crewmen and three crewmen of the NEW JERSEY that attended were involved in that collision. Mike Bak reunion chairman conducted a commemoration service for CMDR David Richard Stephan (USN) who was fatally injured in that collision. The services, under the 16 inch guns of the battleship designed by Mike Bak were as follows: Opening prayer--Honorary Chaplain, Melvin Jeff Collins; Commemoration--Michael Bak, Jr.; Memorial Service--William J. Herrick; Honorary Captain--William Shattuck, Torpedo Officer; Wreath Ceremony--Michael Bak, Jr. USS EVERSOLE (DD-789) Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside San Diego, California September 27-30, 2006 Chaired by: Thomas and Judy Trainham Attendance: 64 total/37 shipmates Highlights: The San Diego Reunion was a great success. We visited the USS MIDWAY, took a harbor cruise, city and stopped at Point Loma Cemetery where we held our Memorial Service. We were luck to have our hospitality room on the upper floor so that we could see the pride of ships pass up the bay for Fleet Week. USS BEARSS (DD-654) Marriott-Buffalo/Niagara Buffalo, New York September 28-October 1, 2006 Chaired by: Jerry Walkins Attendance: 75 total/38 shipmates Highlights: Niagara Falls with local tour guides and "Maid of the Mist". City tour/Naval Park. Dinner at Canada's Skylon Tower--breathtaking view of Niagara Falls. USS BENSON (DD-421) Holiday Inn BWI Baltimore, Maryland September 28-30, 2006 Chaired by: Nancy LeRay Bailey Attendance: 30 total/12 shipmates Highlights: We enjoyed a day long trip around the Inner Harbor, followed by a delicious buffet on Saturday evening. The group voted to go to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the 2007 reunion. No date set as of yet. Smooth sailing to all. USS LEWIS HANCOCK (DD-675) Edgewater Hotel Gatlinburg, Tennessee September 28-30, 2006 Chaired by: Patsy Iapalucci Attendance: 55 total/27 shipmates Highlights: On Thursday night the trolley picked up a group of 47 and took us to the Hard Rock Cafe. We were treated very well with 50's music and good food, then we went down the street to the Sweet Fanny Adams Theater for a great show with lots of laughs and fun. On Saturday we had breakfast and dinner at the Edgewater Hotel. Service was very good. next year Dayton, Ohio. Thanks to all. USS AGERHOLM (DD-826) Best Western, Airport Albany, New York September 28-October 1 2006 Chaired by: Harold G. Thompson Attendance: 86 total/48 shipmates Highlights: Memorial Service aboard USS SLATER (DE-766) and 911 Exhibit. USS LINDSEY (DD-771/DM-32) Tremont Plaza Baltimore, Maryland September 28-October 1, 2006 Chaired by: Eugene R. Ganssle Attendance: 22 total/6 shipmates Highlights: Our Tremont Plaza liaison, Amy O'Connell, went out of her way to make us comfortable. Opening dinner at the Tremont featured a video tape of shipmate Vern Christianson being interviewed for the Veterans History Project of the Library of Congress about his experiences on the Lindsey including the two kamikaze hits near Okinawa. Our tour of Baltimore included a stop at For McHenry and the following day our trip to Washington included the World War II Memorial, Navy yard Museum, and Iwo Jima Memorial. The latter brought back memories of Lindsey's participation in that invasion. USS BALCH (DD-363/USS PORTERFIELD (DD-682) Clarion at the Palace Branson, Missouri October 1-7, 2006 Chaired by: John W. Louden Attendance: 100 total/49 shipmates Highlights: Sunday was opening of the quarterdeck and registration. Monday morning a bus tour of Branson and surround area, with lunch at the Keeter Center on the campus of the College of the Ozarks. That evening a welcome banquet was held at the White House Theatre with dinner and entertainment. Tuesday and Wednesday were free days to enjoy Branson. Thursday a tour of Veteran Memorial Museum, then a Memorial service was held at the Branson Belle Park. Following the service the group went aboard for lunch and entertainment. The group attended the Yakov Smirnoff show, later the group toured the new Branson Landing. Friday afternoon the general meeting was held, later that evening the Grand Banquet was held at the Clarion at the Palace. Saturday morning a farewell breakfast buffet was held. Next reunion will be held in San Diego, CA Oct. 4-11, 2007. USS SOUTHERLAND (DD/DDR-743) Embassy Suites Boston Logan Airport September 28-October 1, 2006 Chaired by: Richard Anderson Attendance: 63 total/35 shipmates (12 were Plank Owners) Highlights: Wednesday started off with a welcome reception and registration. Thursday we boarded the Duck Tour and saw the city by land and water. That evening we traveled to Salem for a dinner and ghost and witch walk. Friday we toured the USS CONSTITUTION and the USS CASSIN YOUNG. That afternoon we held our members meeting and the elections of officers. Green Bay was chosen to be the site for the 2008 reunion. That evening was our wonderful banquet of fine food, group pictures, and time to kick up our feet to good music. Saturday we visited the Salem Witch Museum and the House of the Seven Gables. Afterward we had some free time to look around and have lunch. Saturday we held a dinner and handed out prizes and heard war stories from our shipmates. Sunday was our sad farewells until Green Bay in August of 2008. Thanks to all of our attending members and guest for a wonderful time. See you in 2008. USS EDISON (DD-439) Howard Johnson Express Inn St. Augustine, Florida October 1-4, 2006 Chaired by: Jack Ellis Attendance: 30 total/8 shipmates Highlights: Our 37th reunion was a success with mixed emotions. Sad that we are losing so many shipmates and their families, but happy that those of us able to attend enjoy being together. A highlight of the reunion was touring the destroyer, USS ROOSEVELT (DDG-80) at Mayport, Florida Navy Yard. USS DOUGLAS H. FOX (DD-779) Hilton Valley Forge King of Prussia, Pennsylvania October 5-8, 2006 Chaired by: Joe Sczyrek Attendance: 159 total/89 shipmates Highlights: One-hundred fifty-nine shipmates and guests participated in the 8th bi-annual reunion of the USS DOUGLAS H. FOX (DD-779) in Valley Forge PA. It was a great time of fellowship for everyone present, including five plank owners from 1944. Events included tours of many Philadelphia historical sites connected with the birth of our nation and our ongoing struggle for freedom. Our large hospitality room provided the perfect gathering place to renew old friendships, make new ones and relive memories through the abundant memorabilia, photos and DVD's brought by shipmates. Our event concluded with a gala cocktail reception and banquet dinner on Saturday. Our next reunion will be in Central or Midwest US in 2008. Contact Joe Sczyrek, jsczyrek@seligmandata.com, phone 212-850-1501. USS MORRIS (DD-417) Oak Hills Medical Center Hotel San Antonio, Texas October 4-8, 2006 Chaired by: Family of Robert T. Foley WT-3 killed in action at Okinawa April 6, 1945 Attendance: 60 total/18 shipmates Highlights: Dedication of a memorial plaque at the Museum of the Pacific War. We also toured the Nimitz Museum, George Bush Gallery and the Japanese Peace Garden. Friday evening was capped off with a boat tour of the Riverwalk with a dinner on the water. For further information contact Shawn Brimhall (607) 351-0933. USS HAYNSWORTH (DD-700) Radisson-Norfolk Norfolk, Virginia October 5-8, 2006 Chaired by: James F. Horn Attendance: 90 total/46 shipmates Highlights: Early bird tour of Williamsburg/Yorktown, VA, riding City of Norfolk Tour, Memorial Service and wreath-laying on board the USS WISCONSIN (BB-64), tour of NAUTICUS, Luncheon cruise aboard the "Spirit of Norfolk", tour of the MacArthur Memorial, dinner/entertainment at the historic Boxwood Inn, tour of US Naval Station Norfolk and USS STOUT (DDG-55), lunch at Breezy Point Officers Club, annual banquet at Radisson Hotel New Orleans, room with entertainment  by the Norfolk Public Schools "Strolling Silver Strings", farewell breakfast Sunday, Oct. 8 and good-byes until our next reunion in Philadelphia, PA. USS SHENANDOAH (AD-26) Crowne Point Plaza West Richmond, Virginia October 5-8, 2006 Chaired by: E. David Zapf Attendance: 39 total/22 shipmates Highlights: Thursday arrival with "Beer-Bash", followed with a buffet. Friday tours to Norfolk than a private invitation to tour Newport News Shipyard. No photos allowed but we saw sub construction and learned much. H.W. Bush carrier christened the next day. Saturday at Navy Memorial, D. C. dedicated our Shenandoah (AD-26) plaque on Memorial Wall. Lunch at Union Station followed by visitation of important sights. Sunday to Williamsburg. Formal dinner that night with guest speaker, L. Peter Wren, author of "We Were There", the chilling story of the rescue of the survivors of the sinking of the cruiser Indianapolis in August 1945. USS WILLIS A. LEE (DL-4) Holiday Inn Airport South Baton Rouge, Louisiana October 5-8, 2006 Chaired by: Walt Alexander Attendance: 141 total/82 shipmates Highlights: Fun reunion, went on tour of Baton Rouge, had dinner at Bayview Tavern on the Bayou, held memorial service on USS KIDD (they fired the 5" guns as a salute). We had a "Dress as a Pirate" night for the Welcome party. Banquet dinner was excellent "5 Star". See all in Charleston, SC in 2007. USS DENNIS J. BUCKLEY (DD/DDR-808) Sea Mist Resort Myrtle Beach, South Carolina October 8-11, 2006 Chaired by: Karl Stroh Attendance: 66 total/35 shipmates Highlights: Shipmates from 1945-1973 enjoyed a 4 day, 3 night packaged deal consisting of a Welcome Reception; buffet breakfast every morning; t-shirt with DJB 808 logo; Dixie Stampede Dinner Show; banquet with choice of entrees and Ocean View Rooms with balconies. The roof top Penthouse served as Hospitality Room for the duration. Certificates of appreciation were presented to Homer Evans 54-58, name pins; John Rusinek 54-57, co-coordinator; Robert Zang 49-53, ship's bell plaque; Raymond Sorrell 62-63, web site admihistrator. Reunion Coordinator Karl Stroh 55-58, was presented with a sweatshirt with navy emblem. Two plank owners and ten first year shipmates attended. Drawings for Tin Can Sailors Musuem Ships totaled $400. USS HEERMANN (DD-532) Hampton Inn Fall River, Massachusetts October 8-13, 2006 Chaired by: Gerry Miller Attendance: 76 total/38 shipmates Highlights: Memorial service aboard the USS MASSACHUSETTS (BB-59) and following our banquet we were entertained by the singing trooper, Sgt. Dan Clark who provided a superb "Americana" program that was a thrill for all who attended. USS STRIBLING (DD-867) Holiday Inn Virginia Beach, Virginia October 8-12, 2006 Chaired by: Pete Crare Attendance: 92 total/48 shipmates USS BLANDY (DD-943) Holiday Inn Historic Philadelphia Philadelphia, Pennsylvania October 12-15, 2006 Chaired by: Stanley Jaroszewski Attendance: 82 total/47 shipmates Highlights: Barbeque lunch, Memorial Service and tour of Battleship New Jersey, historic tour of Philadelphia with tour of Philadelphia Naval Shipyard and photo op. Group photo with EDSON (DD-946) in background. Conclusion with banquet at hotel and plans for next reunion in 2008 in Branson, Missouri. USS JONAS INGRAM (DD-938) Town & Country Inn Conference Center Charleston, South Carolina October 12-15, 2006 Chaired by: Pete Ventola Attendance: 84 total/50 shipmates Highlights: Friday visit to historic Charleston, Boone Hall, The Citadel and the Battery. Afternoon--visited the carrier USS YORKTOWN, the destroyer USS LAFFEY, and the submarine USS CLAGMORE at Patriots Point. Evening banquet, address by the first captain of the ship, Capt. Grover Rawlings, and her fourth skipper Rear ADM. Karl Christoph. Of the 50 crew members attending, there were 21 officers. A real nostalgic time for all of us and a good time was had by all. See you in Philadelphia in 2008. USS FURSE (DD/DDR-882) Windmill Inn & Conference Center Branson, Missouri October 17-22, 2006 Chaired by: Delmer Mattison Attendance: 90 total/45 shipmates Highlights: Past President Lee Pickerell and Millie were married at our Saturday night banquet. Past President Maurice "Tut" Tuttle and Jackie, President of the Fursettes, were given a surprise 50th wedding anniversary party at the Friday night nautical party. Representatives came from 19 states. Planning a reunion in Nashville for 2007. USS ROGERS (DD/DDR-876) MCM Elegante Beaumont, Texas October 18-22, 2006 Chaired by: John L. Miller Attendance: 55 total/29 shipmates ( 4 Plank Owners) Highlights:   On Oct. 19 23 visited the USS TEXAS moored in San Jacinto. The only surviving dreadnaught battleship of WWI. On Oct. 20 we toured the Texas-Louisiana Bayous and passed by the USS ORLECK (DD-886) sister ship of the Rogers built in Orange, Texas. Our next reunion is scheduled for October of 2007 in San Diego, California. Contact John Miller (jolmiller@att.net). USS TERRY (DD-513) La Quinta Mesa, Arizona October 19-21, 2006 Chaired by: Frank Camerota Attendance: 28 total/8 shipmates Highlights: On Friday, October 20th we went to the State Capital Building to see the USS ARIZONA Museum then to Saguaro Lake for lunch. On Saturday we went to the Commemorative Air Museum at Falcon Field, Mesa where we saw many restored war birds. On Saturday evening we had a barbeque at the home of one of the crew's children. USS DAVIS (DD-937) Hilton Valley Forge King of Prussia, Pennsylvania October 19-22, 2006 Chaired by: Pete Lennon Attendance: 99 total/53 shipmates Highlights: Hospitality room, golf tournament, tour of USS OLYMPIA, Memorial Service, association business meeting, raffle/auction, dinner-dance, farewell breakfast. Eleven shipmates attending for the first time. A good time was had by all. 2007 will be our tenth reunion and fiftieth anniversary of commissioning the ship. All shipmates, please join us. USS MELVIN (DD-680)    Town & Country Inn Charleston, South Carolina October 26-29, 2006 Chaired by: Jim Simpson Attendance: 45 total/25 shipmates Highlights: Charleston is a beautiful city. Fort Sumter was a learning experience. Capt. Patterson attended, which we all enjoyed. He has many stories, which he tells with much interest. USS QUICK (DD-490/DMS-32) Cascades Inn Branson, Missouri November 2-6, 2006 Chaired by: George Jordan Attendance: 32 total/19 shipmates Highlights: Our 15th reunion was held in Branson, MO with our veterans accompanied by spouses, sisters, sons, daughters and friends. Beeline Travel Tours (beeline@tablerock.net) in Reeds Spring, MO did an excellent job for our group. It was our third trip to Branson and we had the Christmas musical shows, lunch on the Branson Belle paddlewheel, Shoji Tabuchi's spectacular stage show, Yakov Smirnoff's hilarious show, the Lennon Sisters with the Gatlin Brothers and our drive through the canyon with animated Christmas figures in lights were the highlights of our trip. Our veterans were honored at each performance we attended. USS SAMUEL N. MOORE (DD-747) Holiday Inn Bayside San Diego, California November 8-12, 2006 Chaired by: Bob Culver and Don Rank Attendance: 47 total/38 shipmates Highlights: We were given a tour of the US Navy Seal Base and viewed a video tape of seal training; a tour of the nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS NIMITZ. The evening we were entertained with a 1940 type USO Show. Day 2 we had a San Diego Bay Harbor Tour followed by a tour of the Navy Museum aboard the carrier USS MIDWAY. USS PERRY (DD-844/DMS-17) Crockett Hotel San Antonio, Texas March 18-22, 2007 Chaired by: Bob Noroski Attendance: 115 total/63 shipmates Highlights: Dedication of a plaque at Admiral Nimitz Museum to the USS PERRY (DMS-17) USS MANLEY (DD-940) Norfolk Airport Hilton Norfolk, Virginia April 19-23, 2007 Chaired by: Joe Dennison Attendance: 210 total/111 shipmates Highlights: The very best ever. Exciting tour itinerary included USS CARR (FFG-521) and Virginia Int'l Tattoo. Memorial Service on USS WISCONSIN (BB-64) was heartfelt, unique remembrance. Wonderful entertainment at Grand Banquet. Opening ceremonies focused on video show of crew and S.E. Asia Operations. On a scale of 1-5, reunion earned a 10! USS NEW (DD-818) Carnival Inspiration Out of Tampa, Florida April 23-28, 2007 Chaired by: Don Smith Attendance: 66 total/34 shipmates Highlights: Five day cruise to Grand Cayman and Cozumel. Wonderful time had by all. Crew members from launch in 1945 to decommissioning in 1978. Saw ruins of Tulum and many others. Great shopping. USS RICH (DD-820) Hampton Inn York, Pennsylvania April 25-28, 2007 Chaired by: Don Hake Attendance: 167 total/84 shipmates Highlights: Banquet with memorial to the deceased. Friendship among shipmates. USS SARSFIELD (DD/EDD-837) Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside San Diego, CA May 2-5, 2007 Chaired by: Marc D. Cline Attendance: 84 total/43 shipmates Highlights: Our 8th reunion was a great success. The Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside was a  wonderful host. We had a city tour, USS MIDWAY (CVA-41) tour, bay tour and a golf outing. We held a memorial service for 85 of our departed shipmates prior to our Hawaiian Luau Banquet on Saturday night. Color Guard was provided by the NAS San Diego. Entertainment provided by a local Polynesian dance group proved our members are still "young at heart". Our next reunion will be in October 2008. USS CARPENTER (DD-825) Embassy Suites Tukwila, Washington May 3-7, 2007 Chaired by: Jimmie Kennedy Attendance: 70 total/35 shipmates Highlights: Everyone enjoyed the reception, banquet and tours. We were again joined by Pat and Ann Carpenter. Pat is the son of the ship's namesake and a retired navy captain. We are looking forward to San Diego in 2008 and Hawaii in 2009. USS CONY (DD/DDE-508) Holiday Inn Resort Pigeon Forge, Tennessee May 7-11, 2007 Chaired by: Kenneth E. Cox Attendance: 147 total/72 shipmates Highlights: The CONY went country in Pigeon Forge, TN. This reunion was the largest CONY reunion ever with 147 total persons including 72 shipmates. The guests enjoyed Pigeon Forge's shopping and attractions during the day and at night we attended Country Tonite Theatre and Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede. 60's Rock Star, Carl Dobkins, Jr. attended the reunion as a guest and entertained the guests with a medley of rock songs and a couple of his hits at CONY's Farewell Banquet. The Holiday Inn Resort Management and Staff helped ensure the success of the CONY Reunion. USS BENNETT (DD-473) Quality Inn Hadley, Massachusetts May 8-9, 2007 Chaired by: Donald Sheridan Attendance: 32 total/9 shipmates Highlights: A wonderful gathering. It seemed like the guests became crew members for one day. The friendships and camaraderie permeated the meeting areas and a fine time was had by all. And thanks to Tin Can Sailors for their support in making this happen. USS HUGH W. HADLEY (DD-774) Marriott Courtyard Chantilly, Virginia May 10-14, 2007 Chaired by: Thomas J. English Attendance: 109 total/16 shipmates Highlights: A memorial service was held at the chapel in Annapolis followed by a visit to Arlington and The Changing of the Guard. A visit to the White House was followed by a visit to Union Station and then to the Navy Museum and visit to DD-993. Sunday visit to WWII Memorial and related sights. Smithsonian and Air Museum and farewell breakfast Monday morning. USS EPPERSON (DDE/DD-719) Holiday Inn Louisville-Downtown Louisville, Kentucky May 13-17, 2007 Chaired by: Sam White Attendance: 131 total/71 shipmates Highlights: I would say the highlight of our reunion was our Memorial Service at Fort Knox. The Harold Epperson Marine Corps League carried the colors, and the service was very moving. Other highlights included our Welcome Aboard dinner on The Spirit of Jefferson Riverboat on the Ohio River, tours of the Louisville Slugger Museum, Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum, the General Patton Museum and the Jim Beam Distillery. All the shipmates and guests enjoyed our wonderful hospitality room on the 12th floor of the hotel overlooking the city of Louisville. USS SMALLEY (DD-565) Town and Country Inn Charleston, South Carolina May 14-19, 2007 Chaired by: Fred Frederickson Attendance: 81 total/41 shipmates Highlights: The hotel was great. We had a large hospitality room and told many sea stories. Activities included a tour of the city, the war museum and The Citadel and a foggy and rainy Charleston Harbor Cruise. A fine banquet at the hotel included a talk by a retired navy destroyer captain and squadron commander. Our memorial service was held aboard the USS YORKTOWN. It was another fine reunion and we look forward to 2008 in the Detroit area. USS YELLOWSTONE (AD-27) Holiday Inn South Baton Rouge, Louisiana May 16-19, 2007 Chaired by: Paul Bowen Attendance: 117 total/60 shipmates Highlights: We had an outstanding reunion. The hotel was wonderful. We had no problems. Our tours, Nottoway Plantation, Bayview on the Bayou and the USS KIDD were great and well attended. Our memorial on the USS KIDD was very moving with a piper playing "Amazing Grace" to the tap on the fan tail and the gun salute. The Baton Rouge CVB was the best we have had the pleasure of working with. We would highly recommend Baton Rouge for anyone to hold reunions at. USS BROWNSON (DD-518/DD-868) Merry Manor Inn (Best Western) South Portland, Maine May 20-24, 2007 Chaired by: Guy Linscott Attendance: 153 total/85 shipmates Highlights: Tour of Portland, lighthouses, shopping trip to Freeport, lobster Bake. Captain Dave Thomas was the guest speaker at the banquet. USS ISHERWOOD (DD-520) Heritage House Hotel Hyannis, Massachusetts June 3-8, 2007 Chaired by: Elmer (Skip) Martens Attendance: 46 total/22 shipmates Highlights: This was our 5th reunion at the same hotel, The Heritage House in Hyannis, MA. We had a great and enjoyable time. The crew of the Isherwood and their family went on three tours; Battleship Cove in Fall River, MA with a sit down lunch at the Newport Officer's Club where the food and atmosphere were extraordinary. A cruise to Martha's Vineyard and a day in Sandwich/Plymouth touring the glass works museum and learning about the art of glass blowing and a visit to the site of the landing at Plymouth Rock. USS JOHN KING (DDG-3) Ramada Inn Charleston, South Carolina June 6-10, 2007 Chaired by: Dennis "Jake" Jaegle Attendance: 54 total/31 shipmates Highlights: We had a Ball! Toured Patriots Point, visited the Hunley, Fort Sumter and went on a dinner cruise. Saturday night we ate a delicious meal for our banquet dinner followed by live entertainment "Danny Stirling as Elvis". Friday night was a real hoot at our auction with Mike Hardin auctioneer. We elected a new president, Ed Garrett as George Saunders stepped down, we thank him for his hard work the past 10 plus years. We also voted to help support Tin Can Sailors with a $500.00 donation. Thank you for your continued support! It was voted to have our next reunion in 2009 at Las Vegas, NV. See you there, Jake. USS BRAINE (DD-630) Millenium Airport Buffalo, New York June 10-14, 2007 Chaired by: Jim Rountree Attendance: 76 total/38 shipmates Highlights: The BRAINE's thirteenth biennial reunion was held in Buffalo. Tours of Niagara, Erie Canal and Locks, Fallsview Casino, Buffalo and the Military Park. Memorial Service for our fallen shipmates was conducted on the USS LITTLE ROCK. Lots of memories were passed back and forth while touring USS THE SULLIVANS. New reunion officers were selected and Pensacola, FL is the next reunion site in the fall of 2008. USS AARON WARD (DM-34) Holiday Inn Philadelphia, Pennsylvania June 14-17, 2007 Chaired by: John & Susan Morgan Attendance: 80 total/12 shipmates Highlights: The hotel was two blocks from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Memorial service aboard the Battleship New Jersey. Visited the National Constitution Center. Our first reunion in the "Cradle of Liberty" was a great success filled with brotherly love. USS DALE (DD-353/DLG/CG-19) San Diego Hilton Hotel San Diego, California June 14-16, 2007 Chaired by: Dennis Smith Highlights: If you weren’t there, well, you missed a great reunion! The USS DALE nested reunion was held at the San Diego Hilton Hotel. Both the USS DALE DD-353 and the USS DALE DLG/CG-19 had our reunions at the same time and place. The atmosphere between the two groups was transparent; we were all one Dale family. Our hospitality room, at first sight, did not look to be very large but it also included an outdoor setup. About 15 feet from the outdoor deck was San Diego harbor and a beautiful marina. The first attendees were waiting for the hospitality room to open at 8:00am Thursday and continued to arrive all day. Introductions, getting re-acquainted and meeting new friends was the order of the day. Cruise books and photos quickly appeared and reminiscing, sea stories and past reunions were actively discussed. Friday morning most folks went on the day trip, which started at the North Island Naval Air Station for a close-up tour of Navy jets and helicopters being overhauled. Next was a driving tour of Coronado Island and San Diego city tour stopping for lunch at Bali Hai restaurant, which overlooks the harbor. The food, service and ambiance were excellent. After lunch we went through what was NTC San Diego (bootcamp), it sure is different now! Saturday morning everyone boarded the motor coaches for a two-hour harbor tour.  Some of the highlights were the California sea lions and the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan wrapped in what looked like white ‘shrink wrap’ to contain the paint chips during chipping and painting. We then went under the Coronado Bridge passing the active Navy fleet. We again boarded the coaches for a short ride to the museum Aircraft Carrier USS Midway. The Midway time was a ‘split’ tour. Michael Olson authored the book Tales of A Tin Can from Pearl Harbor to Tokyo Bay. In the hanger there was a reading of parts of the book. Local newspapers and TV were there for this portion.  We broke from the hanger bay and toured the Midway. Then the WWII veterans held a book signing session on the flight deck. A local Navy band was onsite to provide music. The overall DD-353 book reading and signing sessions were very impressive and will long be remembered by all who attended. Some of us decided to spend more of our time touring the Midway, Much of it is open to the public and in excellent shape. It was interesting for us tin can sailors to see the internal parts of a bird farm. The banquet meal was delicious and enjoyed by all. The evening activities were hosted by Michael and Marlene Olson and Dennis and Becky Smith. There were many gifts for the raffle that was handled in the CHINESE AUCTION or TRICK TRAY format by Becky Smith. Following the raffle there was an auction of some special items donated by former crewmembers. We also had a very moving tribute to the former Dale crewmates that have passed on. There were many tears, sad hearts and somber feelings but there was no shortage of pride and admiration as the name of each departed shipmate was read. After the banquet we migrated back to the hospitality room. All were having fun and enjoying the evening but I noticed a little sadness that the reunion was coming to an end so soon. All good things do come to an end; this good thing is now over but it will be re-commissioned in about two years. USS CHARLES R. WARE (DD-865) Marriott Quincy MA Boston/Quincy, MA June 27-July 1, 2007 Chaired by: Thomas Spicer and Walt & Terry Collier Attendance: 256 total/136 shipmates Highlights: We always have a hospitality check in room with our ships memorabilia and a lot of snacks open every day with each attendee receiving a gift package. We held a memorial ceremony for our Vietnam veterans on Friday evening with every shipmate attending wearing their blue Charles R. Ware golf shirts they were given. After dinner we viewed a video of short history of our ship and also of our Vietnam veterans telling of their experience on board at that time. We also conducted tours of various interests around Boston every day. We had a professional photographer at most of our events as well. USS CLAUDE V. RICKETTS (DDG-5) (Ex BIDDLE) Hampton Inn Westport, Massachusetts July 12-15, 2007 Chaired by: Carl W. Slack Attendance: 16 total/8 shipmates Highlights: It was a small reunion. Our visit to Battleship Cove was enjoyed by everyone. Dinner at Whites Restaurant on Saturday night was a grand affair with everyone in good spirits. Agree to hold next reunion in two years and to work harder contacting missing crew members. USS BAUSELL (DD-845) Doubletree--SeaTac Seattle, Washington July 19-22, 2007 Chaired by: Eugene D'Arezzo Attendance: 128 total/65 shipmates Highlights: Our reunion opened with a reception recognizing one Plankowner and 15 first time reunion attendees. A tour to Keyport Naval Undersea Museum, lunch at Bangor Naval Sub Base and a visit to the USS TURNER JOY in Bremerton and a trip across Puget Sound on a WA state ferry. A tour to the Everett Naval Base and the Rodney Davis (FFG-60). A tour of the Boeing assembly plant in Everett. Reunion closed with a banquet and Las Vegas Casino night. A reunion enjoyed by all. Click here for photos. USS RICHARD L. PAGE (DEG/EEG-5) Constitution Inn Boston, Massachusetts August 2-7, 2007 Chaired by: Carl W. Slack Attendance: 75 total/55 shipmates Highlights: Our third reunion forty years after ship was commissioned at Charlestown Navy Yard. First Commander and seven plank owners present. Hotel was the greatest. Toured Newport Naval Base, War College and Battleship Cruise. Had a dinner cruise of Boston Harbor/Charles River with entertainment. Did a commemoration Ceremony of forty years as a public event. Barbeque on Pier Four at Courageous Yacht Center. Told and retold all the old sea stories. Remembered old shipmates. USS MYLES C. FOX (DD/DDR-829) Best Western, University Plaza Evanston, Illinois August 8-11, 2007 Chaired by: Perry D. Ballinger Attendance: 55 total/41 shipmates Highlights: Four days spent in the beautiful north shore city of Evanston, IL with its 59 restaurants, three blocks from Lake Michigan. Toured German sub U-505, many downtown Chicago sites. Another top experience was as guests for a Great Lakes Recruit Graduation Ceremony. 871 sailors marched in review in an emotional event for our group. USS BORIE (DD-704) Sheraton Waterside Norfolk, Virginia August 10-12, 2007 Chaired by: John Barish Attendance: 82 total/42 shipmates Highlights: A memorial service was held aboard the USS WISCONSIN Museum on Saturday, August 11, 2007 to honor all deceased shipmates who had served aboard the USS BORIE at any time. USS BRINKLEY BASS (DD-887) Hilton Lisle/Naperville Lisle, Illinois August 15-19, 2007 Chaired by: Bob Shetron Attendance: 162 total/67 shipmates Highlights: A third of the attendees were there by Tuesday. Our annual golf tournament was held on Wednesday in beautiful weather. The welcome aboard reception and presentation of awards for outstanding service to the association was on Wednesday night in the hotel ballroom. On Thursday we had a lunch cruise on beautiful Lake Michigan. On Friday we attended the graduation at Great Lakes NTC, toured the base and had lunch at the OC. Friday night we attended the Drury Lane Dinner Theater and saw a great production of The Odd Couple. Saturday morning we held our annual business meeting and had a traditional navy breakfast of beans and corn bread and coffee. After the meeting we toured the city and visited the famous Museum of Science and industry. On Sunday morning we held our association worship service at the hotel and the offering was donated to a military charity organization for veteran's families. Sunday was a free day to spend in the hospitality suite and swap stories with shipmates. The formal Sunday night banquet held at the hotel included our memorial service with reading of the names and tolling of the bell for our departed shipmates. The colors were presented by a Naval Sea Cadet Color Guard from the Navy League. These young people were outstanding. We were honored to have sixteen members of the Bass family attend the banquet. This was the largest number of Brink's family to ever attend a reunion. After dinner there was dancing and the raffle of many wonderful donated prizes. Many of these were made by our members and their families. Monday was checkout and fond farewells. USS MORTON (DD-948) Holiday Inn Select Renton, Washington August 15-19, 2007 Chaired by: John Kieft Attendance: 124 total/70 shipmates Highlights: The USS MORTON's sixth reunion was held just outside of Seattle. Among the special guests were three former skippers. Wednesday night was our welcome party in the ballroom. Thursday we went to the Museum of Flight, which housed a SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, a Concord jet, an Air Force One, and many other vintage aircraft. Friday, we took the ferry to Bremerton and visited our sister ship, the USS TURNER JOY (DD-951). The ship's director was kind enough to let us in to most of the spaces. Saturday's banquet featured guest speaker, author and former shipmate, Capt. Peter Duetermann, USN (Ret.). USS FOSS (DE-59) Tundra Lodge Green Bay, Wisconsin August 21-24, 2007 Chaired by Robert Neufeld Attendance: 72 total/31 shipmates Highlights: Wine and cheese reception, Foxy Lady Cruise on Fox River, bus tour of Green Bay, dinner danace and farewell breakfast. USS GRAND CANYON (AD/AR-28) Springhill Suites by Mariott Peabody, Massachusetts August 23-27, 2007 Chaired by: Robert T. Dunn Attendance: 160 total/88 shipmates Highlights: Tours of Boston, Salem, Marblehead, Gloucester and Rockport. Thank you for your gifts, they were appreciated by all. USS ALFRED A. CUNNINGHAM (DD-752) Mar Monte Hotel Santa Barbara, California Chaired by: Patty Fox August 26-30, 2007 Attendance: 88 total/41 shipmates Highlights: Sunday: registration and open hospitality room. Monday: tour of Santa Barbara City, docent tour of Santa Barbara Court House which is on the list of National Monuments, tour of Santa Barbara Mission, buffet lunch at Chumash Casino, tour of wine country Los Olivas and Solvang. Tuesday: Tour of Port Hueneme Naval Base, Seabee Museum and Target Ship, Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Double Entrée Buffet at Air Force One, Docent tour of library. Wednesday: Free day for sightseeing, banquet dinner buffet, Western BBQ, raffle and pictures, certificate of recognition from California Legislative Assembly to ship and all shipmates. Recognition from City of Santa Barbara to ship and shipmates. It has been 52 years since the ship was invited to the city for the July 4th 1955 celebration. Missoula, MT is the site for the 2008 reunion. USS LYMAN K. SWENSON (DD-729) Crystal City Marriott Washington, D.C. August 31-September 3, 2007 Chaired by: Don Thompson and Ben Maguire Attendance: 114 total/37 shipmates Highlights: Memorial plaque dedication at the Navy Memorial in honor of Captain Schelling (CO number 5, 1949-51) which had 70 attendees. Total reunion attendees included six plank owners (1944), three shipmates widows, four first timers, three who have attended all 19 reunions for a total of 114. One deceased plank owner's son attended on behalf of his father. 2008 reunion will be October 23-26 in Orlando, Florida.   USS WILLIAM R. RUSH (DD-714) DoubleTree San Antonio Airport Hotel San Antonio, Texas September 2-6, 207 Attendance: 127 total/66 shipmates Highlights: Our reunion in San Antonio was the 9th since our beginning over 14 years ago. From seeing the Alamo to the tours to surrounding areas including Paseo del Rio and, impromptu visits to local shops and restaurants, we enjoyed the camaraderie only destroyer shipmates and their wives can enjoy. We held a “Yankee Swap” and “Tea” for our wives, a “Welcome Aboard Reception” an informal “Picnic and Raffle” with entertainment by Mariachi Los Galleros, and a formal “Banquet and Awards Program” with guest speaker, Capt. Walt Wilson, USN, Ret., President of the San Antonio Navy League, during our reunion. Our membership enthusiastically noted, “The reunion was a resounding success, the very best yet!” Our next will be held in 2009. USS COOLBAUGH (DE-217) Holiday Inn Albany Albany, New York September 3-6, 2007 Chaired by: Harvey Weiss Attendance: 30 total/16 shipmates Highlights: Memorial service and tour of USS SLATER (DE-766) USS BENNER (DD-807) Crowne Plaza Billings, Montanna September 5-9, 2007 Chaired by: Karla and Ted DeTienne Attendance: 85 total/43 shipmates Highlights: We started Wednesday with registration and open hospitality room. Thursday began with a trip to Battle of the Little Big Horn and lunch that evening. We were entertained by the Ringling 5 with Comedy & Cowboy music. Friday morning was a city tour with museum stops, a hat maker and a brewery. Friday evening was a stop at a Pitch Fork Fondue and working farm including barn tours and hay rides. Saturday was men's meeting and women touring the farmers market. Saturday night the closing banquet and dance. USS DYESS (DDR/DD-880) Commodores Inn Stowe, Vermont September 5-8, 2007 Chaired by: Boyd Bell Highlights: Another great reunion in Stowe, thanks to all who attended. Wednesday, September 5, a New England Bar-B-Q was served and the food was great. Thursday, September 6, a tour of the world's largest granite quarry was taken. Shopping and eating in Montpelier, the country's smallest capital, was next and back to Stowe with a drive by of Trapp Family Lodge. Friday, September 7, saw us at a historical round church in Richmond, Vermont and on to a tour of the U.S. Naval & Marine Memorial in Burlington, VT. We were honored to have, as our speaker and greeter, Naval Captain (Retired) Dennis Malloy, one of the founders of the memorial. We ate our boxed lunches at the nearby Echo Marine Center, the original site of the U.S. Naval Reserve Center where CAPT Malloy and I served. A new U.S. Naval & Marine Reserve Center was built in White River Junction, Vermont. Shopping and eating in our largest city, Burlington was next on the agenda. A stop at the cider mill in Waterbury Center as well as the chocolate factory and cheese outlet were made and on to Stowe. Saturday, September 8, a business meeting was held. Next year's 24th reunion will be hosted by Mike & Barb Lenzi and will be August 20-24, 2008 in Philadelphia. The banquet was great. We had a reading of recent shipmates who passed away with the use of a bell which later was donated by Robert Eby and sold at auction. Our guest speaker, CAPT Malloy, made a great speech. His theme was that all of us are in line with the greatest of heroes of our country's history from the 1700's to present; all of us fall within that time period of history to this great nation. The auction went off smoothly. I have to say that the hospitality room was well used. See all of you in Philadelphia, August 20-24,2008. USS JOHN W. WEEKS (DD-701) Sheraton Westport Chalet St. Louis, Missouri September 5-9, 2007 Chaired by: Len Budzynski Attendance: 86 total/46 shipmates Highlights: A welcome reception. Tours included: St. Louis City, Paddlewheel dinner cruise, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, St. Charles, Ameristar Casino and Grant’s Farm, also a breakfast buffet/business meeting and a banquet. USS PETERSON (DE-152) Crowne Plaza Albany Albany, New York September 5-9, 2007 Chaired by: Ronnie Wronowicz Attendance:73 total/39 shipmates  Highlights: The 2007 reunion of the USS PETERSON was a huge success. Shipmates from 1952 to 1965 had a great time touring Albany on the Aqua Duck. There was also a visit to the USS SLATER where we held a Memorial Service for shipmates who are no longer with us. We also made a donation to the USS SLATER to help with restoration costs. Besides all the tours, there was plenty of food and drink and of course lots of stories from everyone about their memories on the PETERSON. There was even a Karaoke Night and everyone had a great time. USS WADLEIGH (DD-689) Holiday Inn Dubuque, Iowa September 5-10, 2007 Chaired by: Rex Wellman Attendance: 61 total/32 shipmates Highlights: Toured John Deere Factory, Trolley Tour of Dubuque, toured Galena, IL, picnic at Eagle Point Park, dinner cruise on The Spirit of Dubuque on the Mississippi. USS ROBERT A. OWENS (DD-827) The Galt House Louisville, Kentucky September 6-9, 2007 Chaired by: Larry McCoskey Attendance: 121 total/62 shipmates  Highlights: A trip to Ft. Knox visiting the Patton Museum and viewing the gold vault and a steamboat cruise on the sternwheeler Belle of Louisville on the Ohio River were features of the OWENS' shipmates reunion. Heather French Henry, Miss American 2000 and an avid supporter of veterans, was the featured speaker at the reunion banquet. 121 people were in attendance which included 62 shipmates who served on board the Owens from 1949-1982. Many Plankowners were in attendance. USS BORDELON (DD-881) Best Western Merry Manor Inn S. Portland, Maine September 5-9, 2007 Chaired by: Barney Oursler Attendance: 160 total/80 shipmates Highlights: Thursday was a free day and everyone toured Portland and took harbor cruises. Friday we toured Portland and visited a lighthouse then a lobster bake for all hands. Saturday we visited Bath Iron Works Museum, Kennebunkport, Freeport, Maine and LL Bean. Farewell dinner dance at Governors Restaurant. USS SIERRA (AD-18) Avalon Hotel Erie, Pennsylvania September 6-9, 2007 Chaired by: Frank Savino Attendance: 113 total/54 shipmates Highlights: This was our 20th reunion. We had two governors resign, Mill Maine and Paul Perez, our storekeeper. At our membership meeting Henry Harden and Fred Ross were elected as new governors. The remaining officers and governors were reelected. Fred Ross is our new storekeeper. Tours were to Troyer Potato Chips, Mazza Winery, Romolos Chocolates, a great luncheon at Union Station, cruise on the “Victorian Princess”, Erie Museum, Perry Monument, Presque Isle Lighthouse and a cookout at Presque Isle. Touring on your own you could see the Maritime Museum and go aboard the brig “Niagara”. The banquet on the eighth included a gift exchange and raffle. Chuck Woll and Charlie Trinca, our oldest members at the reunion, cut the SIERRA cake. Our 2008 reunion will be held in Portsmouth, VA and in 2009, Branson, MO. This was a very successful and enjoyable reunion. USS BASILONE (DDE/DD-824) Comfort Inn Sea World San Diego, California September 10-16, 2007 Chaired by: Ray Jones and Phil Poplaski Attendance: 45 total/23 shipmates Highlights: The reunion started with check in and a welcome dinner on Monday. Tuesday we toured the USS MIDWAY and Old Town San Diego. Wednesday we went to Balboa Park and other San Diego sites. Thursday was Los Angeles and Hollywood. While there we saw a film tentatively called John Hancock being filmed, an action superhero movie. Friday we did a 2-hour cruise of the harbor. Saturday we had our business meeting and memorial service. The memorial service was held at the John Basilone Piazza. We then had a picnic lunch at Spanish Landing and that night had a farewell dinner. USS GREGORY (DD-802) Hampton Inn Westport, Massachusetts September 9-14, 2007 Chaired by: John Nolta Attendance: 60 total/26 shipmates Highlights: Our Business meeting was held on Sept. 10th at 7:30 p.m. On Sept. 11th we went for a tour of Boston. Highlights of the tour are as follows: the Old State House, Beacon Hill, the USS CONSTITUTION, USS CASSIN YOUNG, Harvard University, Kings Chapel lunch and shopping at the Quincy Market. In the afternoon we visited the John F. Kennedy Museum and library. There will be other things to see at the pier as well. Sept. 12th was a harbor cruise with a buffet lunch. Sept. 13th was a free day to see other attractions in the area. Sept. 14th we said our farewells. USS HAMNER (DD-718) Jantzen Beach-Oxford Inn & Suites Portland, Oregon September 10-12, 2007 Chaired by: Frank & Helen Fannick Attendance: 105 total/70 shipmates Highlights: Guests checked in on Monday and were to treated to a well-stocked Ship's Store of Hamner memorabilia and merchandise courtesy of the Association Secretary, Frank (Moose) Magistro as well as a well stocked hospitality room courtesy of the Fannick's. The second day was dedicated to becoming acquainted with the Northern Oregon Coast via bust tour and renewing acquaintances with shipmates and meeting those who are enjoying their first reunion. A business meeting and election of officers was held on Wednesday morning. Cecil Drewry continues as president. Secretary S.D. (Zeke) Sicotte reported that we are solvent and that our participating membership i