USS Current Forum
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April 22, 2009
Jim,
I would like to be included on the roll of crew members on the ARS-22.
My tour on the ship was from 1967 -1969 I was a SN (jack of the dust) I now
reside in Orlando, FL
And my e-mail is
thomasmay2003@yahoo.com. I had many photos from these years but I married A
Korean who destroyed them as many were from Japan.
Thomas May
April 21, 2009
Hi Jim,
Just an update for your
e-mail list. My father, Jim Golden (45-46) has changed e-mail from condojim@aol.com
to
jimg500@cableone.net
Thanks.
April 5, 2009
From:
Furney Locke
To:
usscurrent@juno.com
I would like to thank all the crew members that wrote letters of support
in my appeal to the Board of Veterans affairs. Commander George Giganti,
CWO4 Art Racette, ENC Ellis Ferguson and SKC Pete Banayad. I have received
an approval for my diabetes and related problems. Now all I have to do is
wait on the BVA to determine the amount of disability. Thanks again, I
appreciate it.
Furney E. Locke
furney_locke@yahoo.com
March 23, 2009
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Just an observation
to pass along. With the recent passing of our
shipmate Kenneth Byng BT1, I got to thinking
about our age. That made me think of all the
friends we have had as shipmates. How many of us
have wanted to see or talk to some of the people
we were close to on our tour on thru the years
and have put it off and forgot later to do it?
Let's not do it anymore!!!!! If you have a
former shipmate that you were close to, please get in
contact with him. Better yet, invite them to
the reunion. Let's all give this some thought
before it is to late. Some of our shipmates have
already gone to the great beyond and we never
got to say hello again or goodbye. Those that
have made it to the last two reunions are
looking forward to the next one for the most
part. We really have a great time and we are
trying to make it better every year. This next
one in October I hope will be special as we are
trying to make it better by adding some things
that I hope everyone finds enjoyable and
memorable.
Please go to our USS CURRENT website and
look it over. Find someone you remember and send
them an e-mail or call them. If you know of
someone that is not on the crew list, encourage
them to add their names. Tomorrow may be to
late. If you can think of someone and you don't
have the time, let me know and I will call them.
Thanks
for your time,
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@aol.com
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March 17, 2009
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I'm sorry for your loss
Elaine........all of the crew from the USS
CURRENT ARS 22, that sailed the Pacific with Ken
will all be disappointed and sad to learn of the
passing of our dear shipmate.
We all were hoping
to see him again sometime. Time has a way of
catching us when we are not expecting it.
Deepest regrets from myself and my crew
members. I have sent notification of his passing
to our website, so his name will be dutifully added to the Memorial Page of our
USS Current website, http://www.geocities.com/jimvasko_94555, in
case you might want to view it. My condolences
once again.
Jerry Spickler EN3
USS CURRENT 1960-63
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March 17, 2009
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From: Elaine Byng ebyng@centurytel.net
To: Jerry Spickler
brickletter@aol.com
Sent: Tue, 17 Mar 2009 5:53 pm
Subject: Reunion in October
Elaine Byng, wife of Kenneth
Byng
Dear Friends & Family,
We are saddened to tell
you all that we lost Ken
yesterday, March 5,
2009.
His lungs just couldn't
take any more and
thankfully so, he went
to our Lord in a
peaceful and gentle way.
In honor of his life we
will have a celebration
luncheon
this
Sunday, March 8th,
2009.
Oakland Community Center
Highway 202 West
Oakland, AR 72661
12:00 noon to 2:00 pm
A light lunch will be
served.
We know this is short
notice for those of you
outside of the local
area; however we would
love to see you. Please
join us in collecting
your memories of Ken and
share them with us. If
you can please write
them down as we will be
putting together a
collage book.
Thank you for all of
your kind words, prayers
and support.
Love,
Elaine, Pamela & Ben
Byng
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Kenneth W Byng
1938 - 2009
Ken
was born Thursday, June 9, 1938 in Oconto, Wisconsin, the son of Jerry Byng, Sr.
and Ruth Fye. He married Elaine Johnson on November 3, 1968 at Reno, Nevada and
worked as a Mechanical Engineer for Military Sealift Command 28 Years. Ken Byng
lived in Oakland, Arkansas since 1988 moving from California. He was a proud
American citizen and a patriotic naval veteran who was passionate for fishing,
wildlife, the outdoors and gardening. He was a world traveler, experiencing many
beautiful places and was a dedicated family man. Kenneth Byng died Thursday,
March 5, 2009 in Mountain Home, Arkansas at the age of 70.
Survivors:
his
wife, Elaine Byng, of Oakland, AR, son, Bernard (Yvette) Byng, of Tracy, CA,
daughter, Pamela Byng of Charlotte, NC, brother, Jerry (Carol) Byng of Abrams,
WI, 2 sisters, Shirley Earley of Peshtigo, WI and Carol Owens of Milwaukee, WI,
numerous nieces and nephews, grandchildren, Andrea and Jessica Byng and special
friends, Corky, Jim and Chuck.
Funeral:
A Memorial
Celebration for Kenneth W. Byng of Oakland, AR, will be 12:00 - 2:00 P.M.
Sunday, March 8, 2009 at Oakland Community Center, with Tony DeWeese
officiating.
Memorials:
may be
made to Gail's Pets Second Chance, P.O. Box 83, Oakland, AR 72661. gailspets@yahoo.com
February 25, 2009
From : Herb Calhoun hcalhoun1@charter.net
To : usscurrent@juno.com
Subject : Shipmates
Date : Wed, Feb 25, 2009 07:08 AM
Visited with Keith Cathcart while on a trip down south. Its been 53 yrs since we
talked and we enjoyed our visit. Pic's then and now.
Keith was a EM3 and Diver.
Herb Calhoun EM3 56 to 58.
January 24, 2009
LT. Dennis Patrick (DV),
Current's Operations Officer 1967-69, recently retired as president of Lynden
International. He has contributed many of his photos to the Current website of
salvops during his time on Current. We wish him well and a happy retirement.
Click on the following link to read his story.
http://www.lynden.com/lynden_ink/2008/dec08.pdf
January 22, 2009
USS Current Patches and Hats
are now available for sale through BC Patch.
http://www.bcpatch.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?
December 4, 2008
-----Original Message-----
From: elmer schnittker <elmers@greenhills.net>
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:;
Sent: Thu, 4 Dec 2008 2:29 pm
Subject: Elmer
To all family and friends,
It is with deep sorrow that we announce
the passing of our husband, father, and grandfather, Elmer Schnittker.
We appreciate all of the prayers and kind thoughts that were expressed
as he went through his treatment for cancer over the last several
months. Unfortunately, the final step of the process did not turn out
as any would have wanted. Complications during surgery to remove the
tumor resulted in Elmer's passing.
The funeral will be held at 10:00am on
Tuesday, December 9th, at St. Columban's Catholic Church in Chillicothe
under the direction of the Lindley Funeral Home. Visitation will be
held beginning at 6:00pm on Monday, December 8th at Lindley Funeral
Home.
If you have questions the phone #s are
home 660-646-4836 or Cell # 660-247-0592
Pat, Tom, MaryBeth, Andrew, Nicholas,
Andrea, and Justin
From: elmer schnittker <elmers@greenhills.net>
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:;
Sent: Sun, 16 Nov 2008 9:03 pm
Subject: Elmer Up-Date
We have confirmation that Elmer will
have surgery on Dec. 3rd
They say he will be in the hospital
about 10 days, so if anyone close by wants to come for a visit, we are
sure that
a friendly face will be welcome. Our
cell # is 660-247-0592
so if you want to call that is where we
can be reached.
We are headed for Columbia Mon & Tues
this week for appointments and more tests. Was hoping to have this all
done before the weather got bad, but hopefully it wont.
Elmer is doing good, eating well looks
good and is in good spirits, just tires easily and anxious to get this
over with, and so will I.
Prayers and thoughts, Elmer and Pat
November 12, 2008
Tom Jarboe, Tom Brown, and I had our first
meeting to plan for the 2009 USS Current reunion. More details will be
forthcoming. If you have any suggestions or ideas, please send them to us so we
can to grow the reunions and make them very enjoyable for everyone as we
possible can.
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@ccrtc.com
October 15, 2008
Here is a list of the attendees at the 2008 USS
Current reunion
Bob Arnold
Toms River, New Jersey
Larry & Diane Baker
Burlington, Iowa
Pete & Zenaida Banayad Racine,
Wisconsin
John & Sue Bauer
Fon Du Lac, Wisconsin
Bill Beach
Bethpage, New York
Ed Bock
Coon Rapids, Minnesota
Tom Brown
Indianapolis, Indiana
Jack & Mathew Courtney Knoxville,
Tennesee
Bob & Carol Dier
Gouvernour, New York
Gary Goode (Jensen)
Algonquin, Illinois
George & Sharon Hartnagel Pocahontas, Illinois
Richard Hightower
Alto, Georgia
Pete & Audrey Irvin
Wichita, Kansas
Tom & Jean Jarboe
Reelsville, Indiana
Bob & Nancy Karl
St. Charles, Missouri
Larry & Mary Leighty
New Wilmington, Pennsylvania
John & Ethel Mugg
Lancaster, Ohio
Dave & Janet Nowak
Auburn, Michigan
Eldon (Ozzie) Osmun
Brookhaven, Mississippi
Jim & Christine Oberry
Pearl River, Louisiana
Dusty & Peggy Rhodes
Butler, Pennsylvania
Rick and Donna Shugert
Indianapolis, Indiana
Jerry Shepard
Sandwich, Illinois
Ted & Thelma Simonson
Rapid City, South Dakota
Francyllen (Smitty) & Brenda Smith Jr.
Jonesville, Michigan
Jerry & Lavone Spickler
Monrovia, Indiana
Bud Warbis & Lynda Kennally
Boise, Idaho
Richard Wray
Glenwood, Iowa
October 6, 2008
The following CURRENT crewmembers have their reservations in
for the October reunion. Are you one of them?
1. Bob Arnold
20. Jim Oberry
2. Larry Baker
21. Jerry Shepherd
3. Pete Banayad
22. Ed Bock
4. John Bauer
23. Eldon Osman
5. Ron Broedling 24. Bill Beach
6. Lee Davis 25. George Hartnagel
7. Richard Diekman 26. Jack Courtney
8. Robert Dier 27. John Mugg
9. Richard Hightower 28. Tom Jarboe
10. Pete Irvin 29. Ron
"Bud" Warbis
11. Gary Jensen
30. Al Chakmak
12. Robert Karl
31. Jerry Mundt
13. Larry Leighty
32. Rich Wray
14. David Nowak
33. Tom Brown
15. Dusty Rhodes
16. Elmer Schnittker
17. Rick Shugert
18. Francyllen (Smitty) Smith
19. Jerry Spickler
Jerry
brickletter@aol.com
October 3, 2008
Here is the Saturday evening dinner menu for 2008 USS Current Reunion.
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September 17, 2008
Jim...........enjoyed our conversation last
night. Met with Tom and Rick today at the restaurant where will have our
Saturday evening meal. Everything looks good. Thanks for moving the menu per our
conversation.
As per our conversation about crew members, I talked to the 3 guys I told you
about and they have given their permission to add their names to the crew list.
They are:
1. Jack Courtney BT3 1960-62 dirtdiger1@comcast.net
2. Eldon Osmun EN3 1961-64 601-823-6059
3. Robert (Frenchy) Guvremont EN3 1961-1963
772-589-5037.
Our reservations now stand at 28 and counting. Expect to top 30 soon. Looks like
this year will be bigger than last. Will send you an updated roster for the
reunion as soon as I get an updated copy.
Jerry
From:
Tammy@snohomish.org
Sent: Monday, September 15, 2008 4:37 PM
To: brickletter@ccrtc.com
Subject: USS Current ARS-22 Future Reunions
Dear Jerry Spickler,
My name is Tammy Dunn and I am the Group Sales Manager for the Snohomish County
Tourism Bureau in Washington State. I understand that you are involved in the
reunion planning for the USS Current ARS-22 Association reunion. I know that you
will be meeting in October in Brownsburg, Indiana, but I would be delighted if
your reunion group would consider coming to Washington State in 2009, 2010, or
2011.
Home to Naval Station Everett, Snohomish County is located between Puget Sound
and the Cascade Mountains and is only 12 miles north of downtown Seattle.
Snohomish County is home to the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour
and Paul Allen’s Flying Heritage Collection. Day tours to Seattle attractions,
as well as tours of Naval Station Everett, Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, and
Bremerton are all options for your group tours.
I would be delighted to send you a group tour and meeting facility guide if you
are interested in holding your reunion in Washington State.
Please reply to my email at tammy@snohomish.org or
call me toll-free at (888) 338-0976, extension 12 to request your free group
tour and meeting guide.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Best regards,
Tammy Dunn
Group Sales Manager
Snohomish County Tourism Bureau
(888) 338-0976, extension 16
tammy@snohomish.org
www.snohomish.org
September 7, 2008
Jim,
Would you please add my e-mail and phone to the website.
Jerry Mundt,
mundtly@hotmail.com 319-509-1973. I was on
71-72 and the decommissioning. crew. I commend you and all that put this fabulous
site together, what a great deal. I am hoping to get to the reunion, but can't
say for sure yet. Talked to Jerry a few days ago and he gave me the web address,
but if it wasn't for Richard Wray calling me, I wouldn't have known at all.
Chiefs Johnson and Manini were both on board when I caught the Current and it
was sad to learn that they had passed away. Thanks again for all you have done,
and hope to see you guys in October.
Sincerely,
Jerry Mundt
mundtly@hotmail.com
September 6, 2008
I have been contacted by HT3 Richard Wray and SFFA Mundt from the
1972 USS Current decommissioning crew. I think they will be coming to the reunion. Looks
like now that they have seen the crew list we will be making contact with more
CURRENT sailors in the future. And the beat goes on, and the beat goes
on...............Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
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From: brickletter@aol.com
To: amkenodude@yahoo.com
Sent: Sat, 6 Sep 2008 10:18 pm
Subject: Re: USS Current reunion
Rich,
Mundt finally called
me. Said he was going to get in touch with you
again. Glad you are finally getting in touch with
some of the decommissioning crew. I knew it could be
done if we were able to contact the right people.
You and Mundt were the missing link. By the way, is
Feyerabend coming? I called the motel yesterday and
there are 26 people registered and I talked to one
of my old crew in MS, he is coming too. That now
makes 27. I'm sure we will have over 30 this year.
If you need anymore information or Ican help in
anyway, don't hesitate to call me or e-mail me.
Jerry Spickler EN3 1960-1963
From: Richard Wray
amkenodude@yahoo.com
To:
brickletter@aol.com
Sent: Sat, 6 Sep 2008 9:49 pm
Subject: USS Current Reunion
Jerry,
Rich
Wray HT3 from the decommissioning
crew of '72. I have been in touch with
several of my former shipmates and there
may be some that will come.
Rich
From:
brickletter@aol.com
To:
amkenodude@yahoo.com
Sent: Sunday, August 31, 2008
9:07:29 PM
Subject: USS Current Reunion
Jerry Spickler
here.....EN3 USS CURRENT 1960-63.
Spoke to you earlier on the phone.
Sorry I don't remember what you said
your name was.
Hope you found the CURRENT website
ok. As I said on the phone, we have
about 25 people coming to the
reunion as of yesterday and I expect
to have at least 30 or more. They
come from all walks of life as they
did before the Navy. We will have
people there from as far back at
least from 1946.
You can make your reservations at
the Comfort Suites Hotel in
Brownsburg, Indiana (a suburb of
Indianapolis) at 317-852-2000. If
you call, make sure to tell them its
for the USS CURRENT REUNION to get
the negotiated rate.
Also, if you are able to come, bring
your pictures and memorabilia to
display. We will have a conference
room for us and to display our
stuff.
Hope you will be able to contact
more people from your time on board
and are able to interest them in
coming too. The more people we have
the more fun and good memories (and
bad) we will have.
Looking forward to talking to you in
the future and hoping to meet you at
the reunion.
Jerry Spickler EN3 USS CURRENT
1960-1963.
brickletter@aol.com
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August 21, 2008
Family and Friends:
Some of you may have heard and those of you that
haven't, we found out on Wednesday that Elmer has cancer.
They found a mass near the stomach opening. We are
going to the Cancer Center in Columbia, Missouri on Monday.
We would appreciate you holding the joke. You can
send a few, I am sure I will need a chuckle, but don't overload the
computer.
We would appreciate your support and many prayers.
August 16, 2008
Good morning to all,
Well, it is finally functional enough to
be up and running. As I promised many of
you at the Navy Divers Association Reunion
we held in Laughlin, NV, this past May 2008,
I took an intensive summer college class in
Web Site building at Mesa J.C. in San
Diego. Through the assistance of a great
professor, who spent many hours with me on
the phone, we got it built. At least it is
up and running and functional.
I also would like to
thank Ray Straining (MDV) Ret, for his
contribution of all he gathered and posted
over his many years of running the Master
Diver website. Many of you will recognize
much of what is on the website as that which
Ray put together and maintained for many
years. This website is just carrying on
Ray’s tradition and hopefully will be
maintained as well as the original MDV
website.
Here’s “your” website.
Now, mind you, much of this website is still
under construction and “CONSTRUCTIVE”
criticism is appreciated and welcome. I
will be working on this daily to bring it to
a informative and enjoyable website.
This website, as I
state on the Main Page, is for YOUR
enjoyment and for COMMUNICATION among our
community. I am still working on getting
the Bulletin Board up as well as gathering
additional websites I can add to the “Links”
page.
This is the reason I
have not yet put out the newsletter capping
off the May reunion. But, I will get
something up and to you all on the “Divers
Assoc” page. I also plan on adding a
“Salvage Divers Reunited” page. So, please
all bear with me and it will grow.
It is not pizzazz, but
I did not intend it to be. It is designed
to be easily navigable and easily read.
Incidentally, I am
enrolled in a multi-media class this fall
with the same professor to learn more about
maintaining this website.
Frankie “D” -- I hope
you like it.
www.navydivers.net
Enjoy……………….
David Ball
davidball@cox.net
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August 16, 2008
If you are
planning on coming to the USS CURRENT REUNION and are planning on seeing some of
Indianapolis while you are here, some things for you to consider are (all
are downtown Indianapolis) :
1. USS INDIANAPOLIS CA-35 MEMORIAL
2. CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF
HONOR MEMORIAL
3. WAR MEMORIAL PLAZA
4. SOLDIERS AND SAILORS MONUMENT
5. AMERICAN LEGION PLAZA
6. AMERICAN LEGION NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
ALSO, DOWNTOWN
INDIANAPOLIS AND ACCESSIBLE FROM THE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CANAL ARE THE INDIANAPOLIS ZOO, WHITE
RIVER PARK AND GARDENS, NCAA HALL OF CHAMPIONS, INDIANA STATE MUSEUM, AND THE
EITLJORG INDIAN AND WESTERN MUSEUM.
WHILE DOWNTOWN YOU MIGHT WANT TO SEE
THE NEW LUCAS OIL STADIUM (NEW HOME OF THE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS). IN ADDITION, THE INDIANAPOLIS 500 TRACK AND MUSEUM IS ONLY A 10 MINUTE DRIVE FROM THE COMFORT
SUITES HOTEL.
THERE IS MUCH MORE TO SEE IN INDIANAPOLIS IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, BUT I TRIED TO
KEEP THINGS COMPACTED TIME WISE FOR YOU.
IF YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION GIVE ME A
CALL AT 317-996-2759 OR BRICKLETTER@CCRTC.COM
OR
BRICKLETTER@AOL.COM
LOOKING
FORWARD TO THE REUNION AND SEEING ALL OF YOU.
THANKS,
JERRY
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August 13, 2008
Hi Jim,
My name is Briana
Huffer and I’m a representative for
The
Mesothelioma
Cancer Center. I came across your site
when searching for navy resources and think
it is a great site. As you may know,
countless navy veterans are currently
suffering from life-threatening illnesses
resulting from exposure to asbestos on
ships. This material was used because of its
fire resistant properties, but is now
recognized as a very dangerous substance. I
was hoping that because so many veterans
visit your site, you might be willing to
post a link to our website to help support
and promote our awareness program.
Our website is considered one of the Web’s
leading resources for veterans and families
affected by asbestos exposure. We are very
proud of our massive navy-specific section
which can be seen at Mesothelioma
and The Navy
as well as our information on
symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options
for those who have been affected. We also
know that asbestos related diseases are not
always recognized by the VA, and so we offer
assistance to veterans -free of cost- who
are applying for benefits. We have a
knowledgeable, 20 year veteran on staff who
will walk them through the claims process to
get them the benefits they deserve.
Because we provide our services at no cost
to veterans and families in need, the
support of websites like yours is what
really drives my organization. So far, the
feedback and participation that we have
received from Veterans’ websites has been
tremendous, so I wanted to contact you to
make sure you don’t miss this information.
Please let me know if you are able to help
by posting our link on your site and
hopefully we can save some lives!
Thanks again,
Briana Huffer
The Mesothelioma Cancer Center
20 N. Orange
Avenue
Orlando, FL
32801
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July 22, 2008
Thanks for the response, I do
remember you also. That was me on the fantail
welding. Also my rate was SFP3 got offered 2nd but
got out. Ha Ha. My phone number is 520-371-3889.
What is the best way to get
to the website? I'm in Iowa at this time for a RV
rally in Amana.
I do have some pictures from
our Vietnam tour. LCMR salvage, the C-141 plane
that went down, the MSTS ship that ran aground in
the sand, bar pictures from Subic Bay, and Pearl
Harbor. So I will look around when I get home. Is
there another reunion coming up?
Good to hear from you.
Glad you found the Current website.
I was on from December 65
to March 68. I think I remember you. I was going
through the 65-66 cruise book, found your name and
found a picture of a guy welding on the fantail. I
think that was you.
I added your name and
email address to the crew roster on the website.
I added your rate as SFP3. Is that correct? If
you would like, I can add your phone number as
well, only with your approval. A lot of guys
wanted that added as well.
I got a phone call from
Richard Hightower a couple of weeks ago. It was
good talking to him after all those years. He
went to the first Current reunion last year in
Indianapolis.
If you have any pictures
or other memorabilia from Current that you would
like to add to the website, let me know.
Thanks for the email.
Hope you enjoy the website.
Best regards,
Jim
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July 21, 2008
Hi Jim,
I was on the Current from 1965-1967. I was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and was
lucky to get my assignment on the Current as my last ship. Prior I was first on
the USS Stark County, then the USS Salvage, and the USS Tbcglobalaylor. So I was
lucky to be stationed in Hawaii for my enlistment... Thank you for the web site.
Howard Caires
haoa55@sbcglobal.net
July 5, 2008
Hey Current
shipmates......................
It's now about 3 months
to reunion time. We have 16 rooms reserved. are
you one of them?
If not, please get you
reservations in so we can plan on a good
reunion. Remember, if for some reason you
have to back out, you have until the day of the
reunion to cancel if you must and it won't cost
you anything.
I've seen a sample of the
can coolers.
Excellent!!!!!!
You may
want to get your order in. Just send your money,
$3.00 ea. to Rick Shugert, 739 W. Banta Road,
Indianapolis, Indiana. 46217.
Hope
to see you there.
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Jerry
brickletter@aol.com
July 5, 2008
Current Crew,
My wife and I met Rick and Ladonna Shugert for dinner
last night. Very
enjoyable evening. It's nice to break bread with new friends and Current
crew members, even if you didn't serve together at the same time. There
is still a bond there.
Rick brought a sample of the can coolers with him. The pictures that I
had
seen of them sure didn't do them justice. They are really sharp, so if you
didn't
order one yet, you'll be missing out if you don't get one.
Again, to order them it's $3.00 each. Send your check to Rick Shugert, 739
West
Banta Road, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46217. You won't be sorry.
Checked last week and found the number of reservations for the USS Current October
reunion is now at 14 and counting. Still plenty of
time left to reserve your rooms.
It would help us out greatly if we knew as soon as possible how many are
coming to the reunion so we can plan accordingly.
The reunion information again if you haven't gotten it for some reason is
Comfort Suites Hotel, Brownsburg, Indiana (a suburb if Indianapolis)
October 10-12, 2008. Phone 317-852-2000. Make sure to tell them its for
the
USS Current Reunion.
By the way, we are still negotiating for a cheaper rate if we can get it.
Sure hope to see you there.
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@aol.com
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June 30, 2008
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Thanks so much for
the reply! Yes, my sister, Kathlene had
mentioned the site a while back. I have
already forwarded her and my other sisters
your sites. I had already located the
photos of dad. It was so nice to see his
face. I'm not even sure what his time on
there was. I appreciate the names. I will
look those up.
I saw that the
reunion was in Indiana in Oct. I now reside
in Illinois, but don't think I'd be able to
make it. I would LOVE a patch if you get
those made, and hope to learn more about
dad's time on there.
Thanks again,
--------------
Original message --------------
From: "usscurrent@juno.com" <usscurrent@juno.com>
Hello Renea,
I manage the USS
Current website. A few years ago I received
an email from one of your sisters. She found
the website and was looking for pictures of
your dad as well. There were no pictures of
him at the time, but after a time I
received four with him in the pics. I lost
her email and was unable to re-establish
contact to tell her about the pictures.
I added his name
to the crew list with your email as a
contact if anyone wanted to contact you. I
also added him to the memorial page.
I still have my
personal Current ship's patch and have other
requests for the patch. I'm trying to
contact the company that makes and sells
ship's patches. The 2nd USS Current Reunion
is scheduled for October. I am trying to
have the company info for the patches
available before the reunion.
I left the ship
shortly before your father came aboard so I
never knew him. I'm giving you names of guys
on the crew roster that I believe knew your
dad. You can look them up on the Current
website and get their email addresses there
if you want to contact them.
William Thomas,
Bob Arnold, Bob Foss, Ken Seaman, Robert
Keller, and Captain George Giganti.
Jim Vasko
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June 30, 2008
Aloha~
In Googling my
father's name, Larry Manini, I came
across your forum and found it to be of
great joy! Seeing photos of my dad that
I have never seen before was beyond
words. THANKS for posting those. I only
wish I had a way to get a hold of those
and any others of him floating about out
there. Any chance that you know how I
could be so blessed?
Sadly, My
father passed away Feb 2, 1994 in
Hawaii. I know how very proud he was of
his time on the USS Current, and I am
wondering if you know how I might also
get a patch of his ship? I would like to
add it in his honor, to the vest that I
am putting together for my husband
Randy, (a Navy veteran as well) and
rides with the Patriot Guard Riders.
If there are
any sites and links that you can share
with me, where I may discover more on my
father, I would appreciate them. I hope
that all who read this that knew my
father Larry Manini, as well of those of
you that never had the chance, well, I
hope that you are all happy and healthy.
Take Care,
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May 9, 2008
Original
Message -----
From: Soy Candles By Chris
To: Jerry Spickler
Sent: Thursday, May 08, 2008 11:34 AM
Subject: Hi
Hi Jerry,
What was the nickname you had for my Dad? You sent in the letter with the
pictures. I have been carrying that letter for weeks waiting for Dad to be awake
so I could tell him and show him the pictures. Well, Dad has been doing a little
better the last couple days but now I can not find your note...I am so sorry. I
can not imagine where I put it.
Anyway...I thought it might get a smile out of him so if you could send it to me
again I would appreciate it.
Ron Broedling had sent a very nice note. Dad really enjoyed it when I read it to
him.
He loved looking through the pictures and having names helped jog a lot of good
memories....I could tell by the silly smile on his face!
I can not thank you guys enough for taking the time to make him smile.
Have a great
day---Chris
April 30, 2008
HI JIM,
I AM TRYING TO FIND SOME PHOTOS SHOWING THE CURRENT AT THE STICKLEBACK
COLLISION. IT WOULD BE KIND OF HARD FOR SOMEONE ON THE CURRENT TO DO THIS BUT
SOMEONE MIGHT HAVE PICKED ONE UP FROM SOMEONE ON ANOTHER SHIP.
PLEASE PUT THIS ON THE SITE.
THANKS,
RON "SAM"
BROEDLING BT3 AWOL
madap12@aol.com
April 28, 2008
Howdy . . .
I would like to discuss the SS Lindenwood Victory Rescue which USS Wainwright
participated in with the USS Current in early October 1968. I would like to swap
histories with someone who was aboard at that time.
JC Carlson
USS Wainwright Historian
tracker@macatawa.org
April 26, 2008
Jim,
I got a call today from a Ron Ryan. He is an ex-marine
and the son of Lt. Donald M. Ryan who served on CURRENT in 1944. He was the
firefighting officer. His bunk mate was Ensign Criblet, the diver who drowned in
1944 and the father of Elaine Brodzinski. You know who I mean. In any case, he
has handwritten logs that his father wrote at that time. He also has some other
stuff that you may be able to use for the web site, however he doesn't have a
computer therefore you can call him at 321-259-9903 or write him at Ron Ryan 652
Casa Grande Drive, Melbourne, Florida, 32940. I talked to him for quite a
while today. Very interesting conversation with a very interesting man. Thought
you would be interested in this info. If you get copies of anything worthy, I
would like to have copies for the reunion.
Take care,
Jerry
April 17, 2008
An e-mail from the daughter of EN2 Walter Beckman
----- Original Message -----
From: Soy Candles By Chris
To: Jerry Spickler
Sent: Wednesday, April 16, 2008 8:20 PM
Hi Jerry,
Thank you for returning the pictures with the new info on them.
Dad is in the hospital. Went in on Monday and is not doing very well. He has
numerous things wrong that they are trying, one at a time, to correct. He is
comfortable...that is all I care about.
I have had the pictures with me everyday but he has not been awake for me to
show them to him. I will keep them with me for when he wakes up.
I will keep you updated.
Thanks again---Chris
March 28, 2008
Hi Jim,
I stumbled across your website and I thought I would send you my info.
1966 to 1968, I was a deck ape and spent most of my time in the paint locker.
You have a
great website and thank you for all your work. Would you be kind enough to send
me info on the reunion?
Thanks,
Lee Davis
leedvs@verizon.net
March 28, 2008
It would be a great help to us if everyone who is
planning on attending the CURRENT reunion to go ahead and make your reservations
so we have some idea of what we need to do in order to make this a successful
reunion. If you put it on your credit card they won't charge it until after the
last day of the reunion and you have 24 hours prior to that time to cancel. Make
your reservations by calling Comfort Suites at 317-852-2000. Remember to tell
them it's for the USS CURRENT reunion so you can get our discounted price.
Thank you,
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
March 27, 2008
Clarification.......................
Seems as if my e-mail to all CURRENT crew members wasn't clear! MY BAD!!!!!!. I
need to clarify! Drink holders, ie. cuzzies, can coolers, etc. will be available
at the reunion on Oct.10-12, 2008. The drink holders will have both ship's
crests, one on each side. The price is $3.00 each. Please send your orders
to Rick Shugert prior to Aug 1st. Rick's address is Rick Shugert 739 W. Banta
Rd. Indianapolis, Indiana, 46217. Any questions should be sent to
shug46@comcast.net or to me
brickletter@ccrtc.com.
Thanks,
Jerry
March 25, 2008
I just got a call from John W. (Bill) Mugg
SN (DV), crew member from 1947. He saw our ad in this month's issue of the
American Legion Magazine. Another CURRENT member. Really nice surprise.
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@ccrtc.com
March 22, 2008
I need some
help. Hoping this might be the place to find it. I am looking for some of our
buddies but I am running out of options. Somebody help me find these guys. Frank
L. Lewis DC2, Stanley (Smokey) Weger EM3, Lee Wayne (Rocket) Hall FN,
James Dillard EN3, James Arthur Wilson EN3, Donald L. Muir EM3, Joe A. Brown
SF2/DV, William (DOC) Mclaughlin HM1,Glen Roy Robinson BM3, William Gray White
BMSN, Lafe Wilson ETR2, William Roy Reese SN, or anyone else that served on the
CURRENT.
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
March 21, 2008
Jerry,
Glad you
called. Can you post this on the forum? Thank you.
On March 14 &
15th, the wife and I just spent a great weekend with a great bunch of guys at
Turkey Run, Indiana (a fitting place for a flock of old Current sailors) along
with our wives (4 wonderful ladies). We had a good time as always. We told a few
sea stories and a few lies. There was Jerry Spickler, Tom Jarboe , George
Hartnagel and myself, Francyllen "Smitty" Smith.
Thank you men
and ladies for the good time and the good friendship.
Brenda &
Smitty leejrusn@yahoo.com
P.S.
Thank you Spick for helping a dumb ass out.
Smitty
March
18, 2008
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Hi Jim-
My name is
Jim Steffens, I am Jack's younger brother. I
had my sister send your message to me and
thought I would thank you for the site on
the Current. It was interesting to read
about the ship you two were on.
I am 8 years
younger than Jack so we really didn't know
each other well as kids. It wasn't until
after we both were out of the service that
we became close. I was in the Army during
Viet Nam although I never made it there,
thank God. I was stationed in Korea for 13th
months and then left in June of 1970.
Jack will be
missed by us that is for sure. It is good to
see he had close friends like you. It is
funny to me to call him Jack. We only knew
him as John. Don't really know the reason
you guys knew him as Jack. He never spoke of
the nickname either.
Take care
and my God bless you.
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March 11, 2008
Guys ......This is Walter Beckman EN2 who served on
the CURRENT with me during the early 60's. As you can see he has ALS. He has
seen our website and I occasionally correspond with his daughter Chris. Lets
see that can do CURRENT spirit and do what little we can to help the cause.
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@ccrtc.com
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2008 7:18 PM
Subject: Hi From Walter Beckman
I DO have something you might be able
to help us with....
Our family just signed up to join the
ALS Walk in Mankato, MN.
I have attached a link to our team
page. I just got done adding a picture of Dad and and his wife Marge. If you
click my name on the team roster there is a picture of Dad with his sisters.
If you click on my brother Steve's name there is a picture of all of us. I
am the one peeking around from behind, in the red sweater.
Tim's page has a picture of himself
and his girlfriend with Dad. We would love all the help we can get to raise
some money for ALS but PLEASE do not feel obligated to donate. We know very
well that times are tough. Maybe you can pass the info on. Every little bit
helps.
Thanks Jerry! ----Chris Hill
Thank you so much. That is wonderful.
The ALS association has just
fitted Dad with a communication machine that operates with his eyes. He will
receive it within the next 2 week. This machine will say words or phrases
for him when he looks at the words or phrases that he wants to say. He will
be able to play solitare and a couple other games. He will also be able to
run the TV remote through this communicator. It is amazing.
That is why the walk is so important
to us. The are a great association and they have provided Dad with a voice
again.
Thank you so much for your
help!---Chris
March 10, 2008
My Oh My.
This site is a God send. Thank you very much.
My name is Mike Rieker and I served as a deck ape on Current from April '66 to
November '67.
Looking over this site brings back so many memories at a time when memories are
constantly hard to come by without something to jog them.
While on the Current I spent most of my time at the helm during Special Sea
Detail. As helmsman I spent time on the bridge with Terry Gilmore, who tried in
vain to teach me semaphore, and Willy who I was sorry to see had passed. I also
spent time on deck and liberty with Jack Steffens. Everybody went over with Jack
at one time or another.
On deck during recovery operations, I operated the port capstan along with a tall
lanky Texan named Bentsen on the starboard capstan. I also worked in the diving
locker for a few months. I think I inlaid a hard hat in the tile floor.
Some memorable times were liberty in the Philippines, and the salvage ops. Hard
work but I remember it now like it was yesterday. Especially the time a wire
snapped and missed Dezutter by a few feet as it tore across the deck. I forget
what operation, perhaps the Minot Victory.
Looking over the roster I see names I had not thought of in many years.
Of course I remember Captains Giganti and Fuld as well as Bos'n Racette who
tried so hard to talk me out of requesting a transfer to Viet Nam, not to
mention Chiefs Dezutter and Dooley who were probably glad to see me go. LOL.
I'd love to hear from anyone who may remember me or anyone who doesn't. LOL
I have the phone numbers and I will definitely be making some calls and I'll
plan on the '08 Reunion.
I have lived in Florida for the last 11 years and I've had both knees replaced,
2 by-passes, 3 stints, a heart attack and recently a shoulder repaired after a
motorcycle accident but if my heart is still pumpin' and lungs are still
breathin', by God I'll be there.
Thanks again for the site and if anyone is in FL, let me know.
Mike Rieker miker1615@aol.com
Dunedin, FL
727-733-6559
My name is
Robert Dier EM3 (DV), I served on Current from 1962 to 1964.
Robert Dier
cadier1@verizon.net
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March 10, 2008
Mr. Spickler,
Your reunion information was forwarded to be and will be
published in our May issue. In the future you may send
the information by replying to this e-mail message if
that helps.
We now offer reunion publicity through our Web site as
well. Your listing will appear from now until the last
day of your reunion. Feel free to view your listing
immediately online and use the available form for your
next reunion announcement. See link below:
http://www.legion.org/veterans/reunions
Thank you
Brandy Ballenger |
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THE AMERICAN LEGION
MAGAZINE
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March 10, 2008
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WOW!!!
Great site. Please add me to the roster.
I was BMSN on board the Current from
April of 1966 to Nov. 1967.
Michael C Rieker Age 61
Currently living in Clearwater, FL
Transferred off in 1967 to go to Viet
Nam.
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This E-mail
was received from Jack Steffens' sister. Photos added to the
Memorial Page.
Orion Review Tribute
February 13, 2008
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First, thanks so
much for the interesting e-mail. We enjoyed
learning more about John and, after reading the
information on the USS Current's activities, it
gives us more insight into an earlier part of
"Jack's" life. I know he loved the life in the
service and really, really enjoyed partying. I was
the product of many a late night phone call, telling
me what a good time he was having.
John had Non-Hodgskin
Lymphoma. He was diagnosed at stage 3-4 and even
though he took aggressive chemo/radiation, there
really was not much hope. He also had become
diabetic in the last few years. Only time will tell
if the Navy feels any of this is connected to Agent
Orange and whether Carol (his wife) has any claims.
I have attached two
pictures and an article. One picture is from the 02
deck on the USS Pocono under Admiral McCain. The
second is John with his Ham radio, his latest
hobby. The article is from our local newspaper,
Lake Orion Review. John had been with the Lake
Orion police department for 35 years so the paper
did a tribute.
Shortly before John
died he had received a call from Richard Hightower.
I see that he only has listed a phone number. I
hope he regularly reads your updates so he will
learn of John's death and understands why he is not
receiving phone calls.
Again, thanks for
all the work you do on the USS Current site. It is
very informative and helps families stay connected.
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February 10,
2008
Ahoy Current
shipmates!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tom, Rick and
I are working on some goodies for our upcoming reunion. However, we need some
input from those that plan to attend. We are working on ordering either caps,
t-shirts or mugs with the appropriate engravings on them, but we kinda need to
know what you want.
Since we are
not independently wealthy, we need you to know somewhere along the line we will
need a way to pay for said merchandise. Please contact us with any input you
have and let us have your opinion, one way or the other. We are at your
disposal.
Thanks,
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
January
28, 2008
Regarding the USS Current ship's bell, from
what I know and that is very little, the art
department at Highlands High School in San
Antonio purchased the USS Current bell from
a salvage yard and incorporated it into an
art project called "AMISH" sometime in the
1970's.
Jess
A. Martinez
jess.martinez@dshs.state.tx.us
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January 27, 2008
I just came across this website, today. I served
aboard the Current from about 6/57
to 6/58. I was an RD 3. I'd like be part of your activities and correspondence.
Hoping to hear from some of you.
Bob Schoenburg
bobtustin4569@yahoo.com
January 24, 2008
The USS CURRENT REUNION is set for 2008 at Brownsburg,
Indiana, a suburb of Indianapolis. The date is October 10-12, 2008.
Reservations can be made at the Comfort Suites Hotel by calling 317-852-2000.
Make sure you tell them it is for the USS CURRENT reunion to get our discount.
Looking forward to seeing you there. Questions can be answered at
brickletter@ccrtc.com or 317-908-6886
Jerry
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January 24, 2008
Jim,
Really cool note!
Hope you can make the reunion too, Jim.
Jerry and I have everything pretty well in
place for October 10th.
These reunions and your web page really are
uplifting to us old sailors.
Take care,
Rick Shugert
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January 24, 2008
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Thanks to those who put together the
photo displays. It is so nice to see that
my Dad, Ens. Philip S. Criblet, was honored
along with several others. He died aboard
the Canberra in October, 1944. Hopefully
I'll be able to attend the 2008 Reunion.
What a great looking bunch of guys !!!
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January 23, 2008
Highlands High School
in San Antonio, Texas presently has
possession of the USS Current's ship's bell.
Jesse A. Martinez
jess.martinez@dshs.state.tx.us
January 23,
2008
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IF
ANYONE HAS PICS OF THE BOILER AREA, I WOULD
APPRECIATE IF YOU COULD MAIL OR EMAIL THEM
TO ME .
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January 9, 2008
I Just received an e-mail from Sharon Lang, sister of
BM2 ( DV ) Jack Steffens. Jack passed away December 24, 2007 from a year long
battle with cancer. Jack served on Current from 1964 - 1969.
Jim Vasko
jimvasko@juno.com
December 28, 2007
Happy New Year to all of the Current
family.
JERRY
brickletter@ccrtc.com
December 20, 2007
Reflecting back the last year and thinking of
all the USS CURRENT family that has reared its beautiful head from the
correspondence to the actual face to face meetings and the 1st CURRENT reunion,
gives me pause and a warm feeling inside. I know things will only grow for us.
Wishing a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR to all from the SPICKLER family.
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
December 16, 2007
I would like to hear from you if you
were on USS Current when it was commissioned.
Ralph Greenough
gigigreenough@yahoo.com
DECEMBER 15, 2007
THIS WILL TOUCH YOUR HEART.
ESPECIALLY IF YOU LOVE OUR VETS.
MERRY CHRISTMAS,
RON BROEDLING
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A Different Christmas Poem
The
embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed
round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife
was asleep, her head on my chest,
My
daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside
the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The
sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My
eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure
and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In
perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I
slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
The so
und wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,! < /B>
But I
opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps
just a cough, I didn't quite know, Then the
sure
sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul
gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I
crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing
out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone
figure stood, his face weary and tight. d
A
soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps
a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in
the dark, he looked up and smiled,< B R>Standing watch over me, and my
wife and my child.
"What
are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in
this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down
your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You
should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"
For
barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away
from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the
window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he
sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out
here by choice. I'm here every night."
"It's my
duty to stand at the front of the line,
That
separates you from the darkest of times.
No one
had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm
proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My
Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he
sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."
My dad
stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam',
And now
it is my turn and so, here I am.
I've not
seen my own son in more than a while,
But my
wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he
bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red,
white, and blue... an American flag.
I can li
ve through the cold and the being alone,! < /B>
Away
from my family, my house and my home.
I can
stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can
sleep in a foxhole with little to e at.
I can
carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay
down my life with my sister and brother..
Who
stand at the front against any and all,
To
ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."
"So go
back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your
family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But
isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give
you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems
all too little for all that you've done,
For
being away from your wife and your son."
Then his
eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just
tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight
for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand
your own watch, no matter how long.
For when
we come home, either standing or dead,
To know
you remember we fought and we bled.
Is
payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we
mattered to you as you mattered to us."
PLEASE,
Would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many people as you
can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our U.S.
service men and women for our being able to celebrate these
festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we
owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who
sacrificed themselves for us.
LCDR Jeff Giles, SC, USN
30th Naval Construction
Regiment
OIC, Logistics Cell One
Al Taqqadum , Iraq. |
DECEMBER 7, 2007
HEY JIM,
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND AGAIN THANKS FOR THE JOY YOU BRING US WITH THE WEB SITE.
RON "SAM" BROEDLING BT3 USS CURRENT
ARS-22 1957-58
November 25, 2007
It was just learned that another Current sailor has passed away. LTJG Kenneth
Bryant, Current's Engineering Officer 1965 -1968 had passed away in 2004 from
complications of lung cancer. He retired from the Navy as a Lieutenant Commander
after 22 years. He began his career as an enlisted man advancing in rate to BTC. He
received a commission and came
to Current as an LDO Ensign. His wife Joan sent the picture and the obituary.
Photo and obituary added
to the Memorial Page.
Jim Vasko
November 19, 2007
I have just been thumbing through your website and would like to say hello
to all you guys from me, David Johnson, USS Reclaimer ARS-42 1965-69. You
have really done a masterful job at preserving the life and times of your
ship. Well done! Sometimes I wish we (Reclaimer) had a reunion of sorts.
Be nice to put parts of Vietnam behind. Been trying to connect with guys on
my ship only one has written back and I don't remember him (ha-ha) but am
trying. Keep up the reunions and brotherhood, does a body good.
Best wishes!
David Johnson teekeetop@dishmail.net
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November 15, 2007
Hi Jim,
Thanks for your prompt reply. Wow, I don’t
remember my uncle talking about a crew
member who died during the salvage of the
USS Canberra. But honestly, we talked a lot
during our trips to the Fort
Lauderdale/Hollywood beach when I was a
18-22 year old college student. We spent
much time together (especially because I did
not have a car). Jack would drive me to the
beach, then go off to swim for a couple of
miles, back and forth. He never spoke too
much about the war but I did ask him many
questions because it fascinated me. He would
answer, but never elaborate much (except
about how he had it better than his brother
Henry who was with Patton’s army in N Africa
and then was wounded during the invasion of
Sicily although he made it home). From when
I was little, I knew Jack was a diver, and I
saw his medals at their family home. My Aunt
Eileen, Jack’s wife, died about ten years
ago. Their son Jackie served in the Navy in
the late 60s and subsequently passed away in
the 70s. My other cousin, his daughter
Barbara, has not been in contact in many
years. Sad because maybe she has some photos
and the medals…but she was estranged from
her mother so who knows?
I do have to hunt for some family photos
that my mom had of Jack in his navy uniform.
I will look here in Florida this weekend,
but I moved many family photos up north to a
home we have there. I wanted to make sure
that the hurricanes would not get them if
the roof blew off. It seems to me that there
are some of him in my mother’s old albums.
You can sure use anything I write to add to
the forum as a post. I am a government and
history teacher, and I truly enjoyed your
site and learning about my uncle’s ship. I
think my children will be interested as
well, in light of their current military
service. I am copying them on this email –
Tom is at West Point ready to graduate,
Kaitlin is at the Coast Guard Academy and is
in her junior year, and Lily is a plebe at
the Naval Academy. They all love history
too, and unfortunately never met Uncle Jack.
Thanks again!
Kim Duffey
kduffey@bellsouth.net
West Palm Beach,
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November 15, 2007
Hello Kim,
Thanks for the email. I'm glad it
made your day.
I have been contacted by
Elaine Brodzinski, the daughter of Philip Criblet, the
man who died during the salvage of the USS Canberra.
Your uncle dove with Philip Criblet. Elaine too was
looking for people who knew her father to learn more
about him and his time on Current.
Isn't it sad that we couldn't
have brought a lot of the older Current sailors together again
through the internet or to listen to their stories.
There are some of the original Current crew that have
made contact and are listed on the crew roster. You
might try to make contact with them.
I posted your email on Current's
forum page and I added your uncle's name to the crew
roster and added your email address if it's OK with you.
Do you have any pictures or
memorabilia of your uncle during his days on Current or
that can be added to the history or photo page?
Thanks again for the email.
Jim Vasko |
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November 14, 2007
Does anyone remember my Uncle Jack (John J.)
Wohlfit? He passed away in the early 70’s,
but he shared many stories with me before he
died. I googled his name and found your
website. My daughter is a midshipman at
Annapolis, my other daughter a Coastie, and
they would be pleased to know about their
great uncle.
Thank you for your site. I had forgotten my
Uncle’s silver star…and commendation. You
made my day.
Kim Duffey
kduffey@bellsouth.net
West Palm Beach
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November 9, 2007
Thought you might be interested in this
Congressional response
http://www.americanfleettugmuseum.org
Ron "Sam" Broedling
madap12@aol.com
November 8, 2007
Mr. Richard S. Greenwell
225 Montego Ky.
Novato, California 94949
Dear Mr. Greenwell:
Thank you for contacting me about preserving the USS BOLSTER
Auxiliary Rescue Salvage (ARS)-38, to act as the museum base
and flagship for the American Fleet Tug Museum. I appreciate
you taking the time to share your thoughts with me on this matter.
Our nation has an absolute responsibility to commemorate the
sacrifices made by the brave men and women who operated the
fleets of towing, rescue, and salvage vessels for the United States
military during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam
War. It's because of their vigilance and dedication that we can
enjoy the freedom that is cherished by every American. As you
may know, some ex-military vessels, including the USS
BOLSTER, are currently scheduled to be destroyed by 2008. Like
you, I believe it is vitally important that we preserve our nation's
history so that these irreplaceable treasures are intact for future
generations to enjoy. Ex-military vessels like the USS BOLSTER
have made immeasurable contributions of to the security of our
nation, and be assured that I will keep your concerns in mind as I
continue to work to reaffirm and strengthen our commitment to our
armed forces.
Again, it's good to hear from you. The people of Marin and
Sonoma counties are the most important voices I listen to as I serve
in Congress.
Sincerely,
Lynn Woolsey
Member of Congress
October 30, 2007
October 19, 2007
I'm the
daughter of EN3 Leslie D.
Smith writing to tell you that he
passed away on June 10, 2007 with COPD
illness. He served on the Current
from 1951 to 1955. I believe he was
in the boiler room. If anyone has
stories to tell about him, I'd like
someone to write me to tell the good
stories.
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October 18, 2007
Hey John,
Heard I missed a great
reunion! What an honor it must have been to meet the
crew. Hopefully I can make the next one.
Rick Shugert sent me the
group pic. I emailed Rick & Jerry Spickler
yesterday and asked if they can give me the names so
I can add them to the group photo. Rick is sending
me a CD with about 20 more pics.
If anyone has any pics from
the reunion, just send them to me and I'll be happy
to add them to the website.
If you have pics to attach to
my email only add a few pics at a time or the Juno
system will reject the email to me.
Best Regards,
Jim Vasko
jimvasko@juno.com
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October 18, 2007
I stand corrected, it was Tuesday morning.
Seems as if it was a fast weekend, but a good one. I should have known one
of you would have nailed me on that. Lost a day somewhere, but it was well
worth it.
Smitty, once again thanks so much for the hat, it
will be saved for next year.
Shep
dr.harley@comcast.net
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October 17, 2007
Jim,
I tried to send out about 20 pictures of
the reunion.
My computer froze up and couldn’t get
them through to you.
I am going to Sam’s Club today and get
some prints and some CD’s made.
I will send you a CD copy by mail once I
get them made.
Hope you can make our next reunion. I
think we will try to have it in
Indianapolis.
We have a ton of war memorials in the
city and plenty of possibilities to
stay.
I will be working with Jerry Spickler
and Tom Jarboe to get it set up.
Hope we can double or triple the
attendance.
Any way you can get the message out to
more crew would be appreciated.
Keep up the great work on the web page
everyone loves it.
God’s blessings,
Rick
shug46@comcast.net
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October 17, 2007
Having returned from the USS Current reunion
in one piece, I needed to first say a big thank you to Jim Vasko for putting
the Current web site on the net. I'm sure that without his efforts in doing
so as well as his efforts in keeping it up to date, that there would have
never been a reunion. Thanks Jim. Also a big thank you goes to Jerry
Spickler for all of the time and effort he put into the project (locating
people, securing a location, hours on the computer, etc).
Having said that, what makes a reunion a success or a failure? Sure it's the
above mentioned items, but what really makes a reunion is the people who
attend the event. And for those of you who for whatever reason could not
make the reunion I want to let you know you missed a wonderful thing. This
might sound a little sappy but as I walked around the hotel visiting with
old friends as well as new ones who served either before or after me on the
Current, I had the feeling of sharing a wonderful moment in time with
family. Smitty put it in this way, he stated "that serving duty on a larger
ship might have been considered in some ways "gravy duty" that there was not
a closeness of friends as you passed thru different departments". But as we
all know, when you walked thru the passageways of the Current you were
always around family and that was once again felt as I visited with those in
attendance at the reunion.
To my new friends who served on the Current in the forties as well as there
wives, it was an extreme pleasure as well as an honor to meet you. Speaking
of the wives, it was so great to see so many of you there to share the
experience, all of us enjoyed your company. And Billie, that includes you as
well.
To my friends Ron, Richard and Bob, sorry I returned to the steak house
later for more tea and didn't return until 6:15 a.m. Thought this might
explain my being rather tired Monday Morning. The devil made me do it. The
tea was great by the way. Going back for more in three weeks.
Well, I could go on forever because this reunion was just what the doctor
would have ordered for me, it was a great time in more ways than I could
ever explain. I wish to thank each and everyone one of you for being my
friend as well as my family.
Looking forward to seeing you (and others) next year.
Shep (Doc)
dr.harley@comcast.net
October 14, 2007
Just got home from the 1st USS CURRENT reunion.
What a weekend!!!!!!!! CURRENT sailors from 1946 to 1970, all with different
sea stories, from movies and stories from bikini atoll A-bomb tests all the
way thru. If you missed it, that's your bad luck. We had a blast (not
atomic). We renewed old acquaintances and made new friends and it was as if
we all served together at the same time. I'm tired, but elated. I'm sure you
will hear much more on this and I will send more details later. By the way,
we going to do it again next year, just bigger and better! Now I know why
GOD let man build the CURRENT. It was as if we were always a family,
destined to do and be where we were, where we did it and when we did
it. Do all ships have this camaraderie? I think not!!!!!!!!!!!
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
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October 6, 2007
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The Captain of the USS Current
From 2-16-46 to 2-9-48 was:
Lt. Howard F. (Foster)
Gindling ( not Gilding
)
Retired as Commander, now serving with God.
Also I find it interesting that no
mention of his
Command is sited in the history
during the times
of Operation Crossroads or the
complications of
putting in to port afterwards.
Respectively submitted by,
His adopted son at birth in 1949:
K. A. Gindling Former USMC.
PS, Thank you for this site.
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October 5, 2007
Only a week away till the
reunion!!!!!! See you next week!!!!!!!!!
Jerry
October 1, 2007
Hello John,
I also have been contacted by a lawyer asking about asbestos on Current in
the death of Chief Allen Hill who was on Current (64-66). He died of
Mesothelioma.
In researching Current's history, I began to question the long term effects
of residual atomic radiation contamination on Current from the involvement
in Operation Crossroads ( the Bikini Tests) , asbestos and Agent Orange in
Vietnam.
I know of four guys on Current ( 65-68 ) that have died. Three from cancer
and one from Type 2 Diabetes and one now that has Prostate cancer.
It is assumed by the government that all Navy personnel in Vietnam waters
were exposed to Agent Orange. Most of the time Current was in Vietnam the
ship was very close to land doing salvage jobs. Agent Orange was carried by
winds and washed into coastal waters. Current's evaporators ran 24 hours a
day sucking sea water. We drank a lot of coffee!
As for asbestos, anytime boiler / evaporator work was done to ships in the
shipyards, asbestos was moved or removed. Asbestos fibers had to be in the
air, whether from Current or any other ships nearby. We spent a LOT of time
in the shipyards!
After the Atomic tests, Current went back into Bikini Lagoon was
radioactively contaminated. Current sailors boarded the target ships after
the tests to inspect and "wash down". You know when they returned to Current
they had to walk into the mess deck and berthing spaces with their
contaminated shoes. I wonder if Current was REALLY decontaminated afterward.
I am in good health right now. I was encouraged to sign up with the VA
Health organization. Get a complete physical exam and be evaluated for Agent
Orange exposure by the Agent Orange Registry.
There is a lot of info on the internet about Agent Orange. I Just found info
on Operation Crossroads ships radioactive contamination. Here is that web
address.
http://www.dtra.mil/documents/rd/DNATR8205V1.pdf
I'm glad you addressed this topic. Good discussion at the reunion.
Regards,
Jim
jimvasko@juno.com
September 30, 2007
Does anyone know if we were around asbestos below
decks on the Current? Seems like a lot of cancer deaths
listed here. I was contacted once or twice by a lawyer of a sailor wondering
if I worked around asbestos while in
the Navy. Just thought I would raise the question before the reunion as a
subject to talk about. See you there,
John W. Bauer Sr. EN2, USS Current and USS
Ajax AR-6
m1man@charter.net
September 26, 2007
Have to inform you that another CURRENT sailor has
passed. Ronnie L. Wright, electrician in 61-62, passed away from
lung cancer in November 2006.
Jerry
September 22, 2007
Hi Jerry -
I've managed to juggle things so that I can make at least a cameo
appearance, arriving late Friday afternoon and leaving Sunday evening.
I'll bring some USS Current 'artifacts.' Looking forward to meeting you
and Jim Vasko and many other Current vets.
Cheers, Mark
USS Current 1960-63
LCDR-Ret
Supply, Operations, Communications officer
**********************************************************************
Mark L. Holmes
University of Washington
Research Professor
College of Ocean and Fishery Sciences
Rm 102E Ocean Teaching Bldg
School of Oceanography
(206) 543-7313 Fone
Box 357940
(206) 543-6073 Phax
Seattle, WA 98195-7940
"Time wounds all heels"
Hawkeye Pierce - 1952
**********************************************************************
September 13, 2007
I just
found out that former Current sailor, EM2 Walter Beckman has ALS ( Lou Gehrig's
Disease ) and is on a ventilator. He lives in Minnesota.
Jerry
September 13, 2007
FYI, it was
just learned that another CURRENT sailor passed away. Anthony J. Ostowski
passed away in 1985 from lung cancer.
Jerry
September 12, 2007
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Menu for Current Reunion
Saturday October 13th, 2007
All
entrees include house salad or cup of soup de jour and choice of potato or
vegetable.
Prime Rib Grilled
Sea Scallops
A slow roasted house
favorite
Laid over fried spinach, topped with a
feta cheese
served au
jus
and basil cream sauce
8oz. $12.99 12oz. $15.99 $12.99
Sinful Pasta
Santa Fe
Chicken
Angel hair pasta smothered
with Grilled chipotle chicken served on a bed
of
Alfredo sauce, tossed with
sun-dried
warm spinach dip topped with Roma
tomatoes
tomatoes, portobella mushrooms,
fresh and cilantro-corn relish & smothered
with jack and
crab and
shrimp
cheddar cheeses
$12.99
$11.99
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Jerry
September 7, 2007
This
is a list of the Current crew that is coming to the reunion. Notice the
absence of deck apes.
Bob Arnold MR1/DV 68-71
Larry Baker EN2 65-66
John Bauer EN3 60-62
Bill Beach MOMM3 1946
Ed Bock LTJG 69-70
Ron (Sam) Broedling BT3 57-58
Herb Calhoun EM3 57-58
Jack Courtney BT3 60-62
Richard Diekman LCDR 54-56
Larry Goodman EN3 69-70
Bob Guevremont EN3 62-63
George Hartnagel EN3 60-63
Steve Hastings MR2 68-71
Pete Irwin ? 1946
Tom Jarboe EN3 62-66
Lawrence Leighty EN3 46-48
Vaughn (Ken) Mann RM3 57-58 Dave (Dummer)
Nowak MR3 62-64
Jim Oberry EN3 66-70
Armando Ramirez EN3 1969
Ray Rankin RM3 57-58
Elmer Schnitter IC2 54-57
Dick Sheehan LTJG 69-70
Rick Shugert EM3 66-70
Jerry Shepard EN3 62-64
Francyllen (Smitty) Smith Jr. EN3 62-64
Jerry Spickler EN3 60-63
Mark Holmes LCDR 60-63
Jerry
September 4, 2007
Tom Jarboe and I went to Fort Wayne yesterday to check out the Comfort
Suites Motel. Nothing fancy, but they do have free internet service so we
will be doing as much as possible for everyone. By the way, as of this date
no other people have reservations for that weekend. Hopefully it will stay
that way and we will have the whole motel to ourselves. Wouldn't that be
nice, just CURRENT sailors!
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
August 31, 2007
The count for the USS CURRENT REUNION is now 27.
Jerry
August 21,
2007
Hey Mates,
Check this Out
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla..)
today praised the
passage by unanimous consent of his bill (S.1877) clarifying U.S. law to
allow veterans and servicemen not in uniform to salute the flag. Current
law (US Code Title 4, Chapter 1) states that veterans and servicemen not
in uniform should place their hand over their heart without clarifying
whether they can or should salute the flag.
"The salute is a form of honor and respect, representing pride in one's
military service," Senator Inhofe said. "Veterans and service members
continue representing the military services even when not in uniform.
"Unfortunately, current U.S. law leaves confusion as to whether veterans
and service members out of uniform can or should salute the flag. My
legislation will clarify this regulation, allowing veterans and
servicemen alike to salute the flag, whether they are in uniform or not.
"I look forward to seeing those who have served saluting proudly at
baseball games, parades, and formal events. I believe this is an
appropriate way to honor and recognize the 25 million veterans in the
United States who have served in the military and remain as role models
to others citizens. Those who are currently serving or have served in
the military have earned this right, and their recognition will be an
inspiration to others."
This Bill was passed July 25, 2007. Let your veteran friends know
about the Passage of this Bill.
Ron 'Sam' Broedling BT3 AWOL
madap12@aol.com
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August 18, 2007
The USS Current reunion
muster now stands at 23.
Jerry |
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August 16, 2007
On
a sad note, it was recently learned that DC1 (DV) Jerome 'J J' Fox
passed away in 1992. He was a Current crewmember 1963 - 1968. His wife Judy
lives in Glendale, Arizona.
August 16, 2007
FYI, Just found. Robert Free YN2 1956 - 1958
bobbyfree@aol.com
August 16, 2007
Just to give you guys an update. It looks like at least 20 former CURRENT
sailors are planning to attend our 1st reunion as of now. If you're not one
of them you'll have to walk the plank. Or, if your a snipe, at least you'll
have to dive the bilges. Just think, we have less than 2 months to go.
So get on the stick!
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@ccrtc.com
August 9, 2007
Comfort Suites
Hotel Photos & Review - Fort Wayne, Indiana
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g37114-d91639-Reviews-Comfort_Suites-Fort_Wayne_In
diana.html
http://www.expedia.com/pub/agent.dll?qscr=dspv&flag=l&itid=&itdx=&itty=&from=f&foop=0&hwrq=&htid=42472&spsh=&spsi=&crti=4&nfla=1&mdpcid=21187-1.ExpediaHotelImagesUS|+Hotel_Review|+freesearch|+US
August 9, 2007
Jerry,
I
don't know yet which Current folks may be going to the NAFTS reunion. The
reason I mentioned it is because some ships have their own mini reunion
during NAFTS, which helps logistics and travel costs. This year's is in
STL, which would make great sense with ours in FWA.
The USS HITCHITI (ATF) is having their own reception and dinner on the first
night of the NAFTS - maybe we should think of that for next year when
NAFTS in in Providence RI.
I see in the NAFTS obits a Current sailor - Robert Dodson BMC (DV). I
didn't know him - any recollection?
Rich Diekman
August 8, 2007
I
talked to Frenchy Guevremont tonite. I'm sending him info on the reunion. He
lives in Sebastian, Florida. Another lost soul found!
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@ccrtc.com
August 8,
2007
Thanks for
the note. Could you please let me know more about the reunion: Which date
and times are the main get-together, etc?
Dick Sheehan
richard.sheehan1@comcast.net
Stillwater MN
AUGUST 7, 2007
JUST A NOTE TO LET YOU KNOW
RON BROEDLING BT3 WILL BE ATTENDING THE REUNION IF THE LORD IS WILLING AND
THE CRICK DON'T RISE. 1957-58
RON "SAM" BROEDLING
madap12@aol.com
August 6,
2007
Hi Jim,
Yep, I am doing fine for a old man :-) I retired from Navistar International
(What's left of International Harvester Corp.)
3 years ago last February. Live out in the boonies 60 miles south west of
Indianapolis. Been on a few fishing trips with Jerry Spickler & George
Hartnagel, Jerry just lives about 25 miles from me. Saw Smitty twice in the
past year!
I talked to Pappe, Evans and Hightower this past week on the phone. They are
all having medical issues, but doing okay otherwise. Been in touch with Ray
Haas for quite some time and Jerry Shepherd too! It's been fun filling
in the past years with these guys. Looking forward to the re-union.
Thank You for the info on Fox. That is a fairly common name and he is gonna
be hard to locate. Funny how you could live with those guys and not know
their real names. I think Rhodes, Guvermont, Smokey and Lewis may have left
the ship in 1964?
Thanks for the Great Web Site!
Tom Jarboe
god@ccrtc.com
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August 5,
2007
Do any of you know the full name of, or
where the following old crew members are
from? “Dusty” Rhodes, “Smokey” Weger, ?
Lewis, ? Gouvermont (Spelling?), Fox,
They all served on the Current sometime
between 1962 & 1966. We are trying to
get in touch with these guys to let them
know about the re-union in Ft. Wayne.
Thanks for any info you may have.
Tom Jarboe
god@ccrtc.com
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August 3, 2007
Does anyone have any information on Robert Free, Yeoman 2nd
Class...1956-1958. He is from Decatur, Alabama. His wife's name is Frances.
Ray Rankin
krnkn@sssnet.com
August 3, 2007
Just
wanted to let you know that ....Ray Rankin RM3.....1957-58
will be attending the USS Current reunion in October. I have made
reservations
for my wife and I at the motel.
Thanks for the information.
Ray
August 3, 2007
For those of you that are planning on attending the USS Current reunion,
please get your reservations in as early as possible so I have some idea how
many are coming.
I
need to know so I can plan on an evening meal and possibly a cash bar. I
also need to know how much meeting space we will require. I know you will
understand.
Thanks for your cooperation.
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@ccrtc.com
August 1, 2007
Jerry,
My wife and I plan to attend your reunion. My wife's dad was Philip Criblet
who served aboard the Current in 1944 and drowned while working on the
Canberra damage October 20, 1944.
Please send us all the info you have on what the agenda will be. We will
have to fly in a day earlier from Arizona then plan to leave that Sunday.
Frank & Elaine Brodzinski
brodzinski@aol.com
July
26, 2007
Just
got a phone call from Larry Leighty EN3 from Pennsylvania. He was on the
Current from 1946-48. Pretty sure he and two of his shipmates are coming,
Bill Beach MOMM 3 and Pete Irwin. Larry says he has movies of the atomic
tests from 1946. Should be very interesting! What do you think?
Jerry
July 19, 2007
Just had a call from Jerry
Spickler regarding a reunion for the USS Current ARS 22. Please send me
information.
Regards,
Kenneth Byng BT1
ebyng@centurytel.net
July 18, 2007
Thanks, Jerry - any of you folk going to the NAFTS convention the week
before in St Louis? There are usually a couple of Current sailors attending,
and I will be there.
Rich Diekman
July 16, 2007
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I cannot make this one. My vacation time is
already committed and I cannot change it.
I served on the Current from '66 thru '68 and
left there and went to Viet Nam, and left the
Navy as a B M 3/c, in Feb. '70. Good luck and
good times at the reunion, and I do wish I could
make it.
I am a Police Officer and have only 6 more
years to work before my retirement.
Elmer Clark
July 15, 2007
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Please send me
any additional
information you may
have. I am very
interested in
attending.
Regards,
Armando "Norman"
Ramirez
'69 Crew Member
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July 15, 2007
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I am getting e-mails
and phone calls from various people. At this time it
looks like at least 10 or more crew members or
family of crew members are going to try to be there.
Hope you got my e-mail about more information and my
other e-mail address at
brickletter@ccrtc.com
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July 15, 2007
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I
will post any new Current reunion information on the
"Forum" of the Current website or you can contact me
at
brickletter@ccrtc.com
Jerry Spickler
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July 14, 2007
Update..................to attend the
Current reunion in Fort Wayne, Indiana, reserve your room by calling
260-436-4300 before 9-21-07 and tell them it's for the USS Current
reunion for the discount rate of $89 per nite. Beats $109.
Thanks,
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
July 14, 2007
Jerry -I look forward to the reunion, although travel is very tight
for me as I will be at the NAFTS convention in St. Louis through the 7th
and then plan to visit my daughter in Nashville. I will try to work out
the logistics (I'll send a LOGREQ to SERVPAC). Please count me in.
Richard Diekman
214-789-4760 (cell0
July 13, 2007
A reunion of Current sailors will be held
on October 12-14, 2007 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana at the Comfort Suites Hotel at
5775 Coventry Lane. Come one come all. For more information contact Jerry
Spickler at brickletter@ccrtc.com or call at 317-996-2759. Hope to see many
old Current sailors there.
Jerry
brickletter@ccrtc.com
June 4, 2007
I don't have much information,
but my husband, Gary L. Kelley (deceased) was an enlisted crew member of the
USS Current sometime during 1958-1961. My son has his picture with the other
members of the crew. Does anyone remember him?
Linda Kelley
lck55@nacs.net
| April 24, 2007
I'm the son of
Robert Shaw GM1. He served on Current 1951-1953. What a great website! My dad
passed on in 1972 so I didn't know him well but this helps. If
anyone remembers him, please contact me. Thanks again.
(530) 246-3201 |
Neil Shaw
neilshawartist@aol.com
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APRIL 12, 2007
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I CONTINUE TO APPRECIATE THE WEB
SITE. I SURE WOULD LIKE TO GET SOME
PHOTOS OF THE BOILER AREA ON THE CURRENT. ANYTHING YOU COULD COME UP WITH
WOULD BE APPRECIATED.
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April 6, 2007
I regret to inform everyone that Davy Jones
gets another great Current sailor. Vernon ( Weazel ) Walters passed away in
1996. Weazel served with us on Current from 1960 -1963. He retired from the
Navy as an E-8 after serving 25 years.
Jerry Spickler
brickletter@ccrtc.com
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March 30, 2007
Hi Jim,
What a treat to see those old pics- I faithfully maintained
scrapbooks about your many salvage jobs and am glad to share the
wealth!! My dad was real glad to hear from you-he is much better now
after a really quick bout with the flu. He had not had the flu in eight
years and was not ready to do that number again (despite the flu shot).
Thanks for helping to renew his interest in the CURRENT (which was always
his favorite ship over the years).
Aloha from Alaska,
Linda (Giganti) DeVore conesushi@gci.net
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March 19, 2007
Hi Jim,
My son found this site and I
sure have enjoyed looking at it
for the last hour. I will spend
many more going through it all.
Remembering you and all the rest
is great. If you will, please
add me to the crew list
1966-1970, Sam Pitts IC3 (DV). Great site, thank you and
god bless you and yours.
Sam
samdv@yahoo.com
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March 14, 2007
I saw that
Robert Arnold was looking for the
Kjelsrud brothers on
Feb. 1, 2007. Mark is my dad. I am sorry to say he passed away May 6, 2004.
He was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis a couple years before his passing.
He told lots of great stories about being out there with the boys and I know
he would be proud of this site. I wish he could have seen it and maybe
caught up with his shipmates. I miss him incredibly. If anyone would like
to contact me regarding Mark
Kjelsrud feel free to email me.
Acenith Pacino
ckjelsrud@hotmail.com
March 10, 2007
Shipmates,
I regret to inform you that HTC George Johnson, USN (Ret.), passed away
on 25 February 2007. I received notification from his daughter, Linda, who
used to baby sit for us in Pearl Harbor. His funeral is scheduled for today,
Saturday, March 10th. He is being buried at Rosecrans National Cemetery.
FW&FS,
Ken Seaman
kjscwo3@cableone.net
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February 27, 2007
Warren Wilson
was a good and
fair man. I
remember working
for him as if it
were yesterday.
I was very sad
to hear of his
passing. I have
often thought of
Willy and all of
the crew many
times over the
years. I was
just looking at
the cruise book
and can't
believe how much
time has passed.
Sincerely,
Robert Keller
SN
rkellerb@aol.com
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February 27, 2007
It seems like yesterday that Warren (Willy)
and I worked and pulled liberty together.
His passing is sorrowful as is the passing
of Judy. They are in my memories forever.
Thank you for
the notification.
Terry
D. Gilmore
terry.gilmore@ngc.com |
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February 24, 2007
To all my Shipmates,
I am really saddened by the passing of Warren. He was
my diving partner on a lot of my dives. What is really
even more sad is that we lost touch with each other and
although we were always close, things happen and we
separate the ties that should never be broken. I just
talked with Ken Seaman and as always a LOT of memories
came back. I told my daughter that when I pass, as
Warren did, to call Ken and let him know so he can let
the rest of my shipmates know. I have also just
e-mailed JIM O'BERRY ( Thanks to Jim ) who was on
the Current with me during the year of Dumbroskie.
I will be calling Jim when I get off of vacation and I'm
sure some good stories will surface. Guys, PLEASE stay
in touch. A phone call is best but e-mail is also a
great way to stay connected. We had the best crew in
the world, so stay in touch any way possible.
Fair Weather & Following Seas,
Bob Arnold MRC (DV) (ret) bob6706@aol.com
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February 22, 2007
Hi Jim,
I am Captain George Giganti's
daughter, Linda and I reside in Anchorage Alaska. Since I have a
a computer,
my dad asked if I could pass this message on to all his old shipmates:
I'm sorry to hear about the passing of Warren Wilson. He was a good sailor,
shipmate, and salvage man.
Aloha,
Willie and smooth sailing..........................CDR G.M. Giganti, Retired
(Aiea, Hawaii)
On a personal note, I so enjoy your website as do my dad's two
granddaughters. I well remember
those
glory
years - she was a fine ship with an excellent crew - there is much to take
pride in. Thanks again for your wonderful website. Aloha from the frozen
North.
Linda DeVore
conesushi@gci.net
|
February 21, 2007
Shipmates,
I remember Warren. He was a very
fine person.
I am so saddened about his
passing.
Sounds like he made the Navy his
life.
Burial at sea is very
appropriate for this sailor.
God bless you all and stay
healthy.
We aren’t getting any younger.
God bless,
Rick Shugert, EM3
shug46@comcast.net
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|
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|
February 20, 2007
Shipmates,
I regret to inform you of the passing of shipmate Warren Wilson, QMC
(DV), USN (Ret.),
on or about Saturday evening / Sunday morning, February 17th or
18th.
His daughter-in-law Karen (757-482-2102) can be contacted about
funeral arrangements.
Our shipmate will be cremated and his ashes scattered at sea.
Also, his former wife, Judy, passed away last year. She and Warren
have been
divorced for a number of years.
FW & FS,
Ken Seaman
kjscwo3@cableone.net
February 14, 2007
Jim,
In my old Navy files of 50 years ago, I found a copy of
ALL HANDS Magazine, Bupers, January 1954.
While looking thru I found a listing of Decorations &
Citations and happened to notice the following award
of the Bronze Star Medal awarded to a crewman of the Current.
"Donnigan, Joseph T., BM2, USN, attached to USS Current
(ARS 22) and serving as a member of a salvage party from
31 Aug. to 5 Sept. 1952 . Combat 'V' authorized."
I served aboard the Bolster during that time.
I am sending this to you in the event that it may be of some
interest .
I notice that you do have a picture of the Current off Korea
in 1952 that I took. ( I think it was 1952 not 1953 ( just can't
remember ). I think it interesting that the Combat 'V' was
authorized.
Best wishes,
Lynn R. Miller, USS Bolster, 1952-53
lrmbjb@wmconnect.com
February
6, 2007
Here are a couple of stories I remember from my days
aboard the Current:
Pago Pago
We were sent to Pago Pago, American Samoa, in
February 1959 to investigate
the USS Chehalis (AOG-48) which burned and sunk in
1949. We took quite a few
Samoan sailors who were in the US Navy with us so
they could visit home and
take leave. I sometimes think that this was the
whole reason for the trip.
I don't remember how it started, but some of the
enlisted crew (including me) would
go to the police station, store our whites, and
change to a lava-lava, a loin cloth
a couple of yards long, for a liberty uniform. This
lasted for a few days until one of
the crew, after a few Foster Lagers, told the
"Old-Man" to go fu.. himself.
This put an end to our wearing lava-lavas.
On the way to Pago Pago, we crossed the Equator and
had the customary initiation
ceremonies. A Pollywog bos'n mate ( BM1 White? )
disappeared and thwarted attempts
by the Shellbacks to find him. After several hours,
he was found walking on deck.
He hid from the Shellbacks by going over the side of
the ship and sitting on the
blister above the water line. As I remember, he
came back up because he had to
go to the head and get another cup of coffee.
M / V Beaverbank Salvage Operation
In July 1959 the Current pulled the M/V Beaverbank
off of a reef at Fanning Island.
Heavy swells were trying to push the ship further
aground while the Current's
beach gear was trying to prevent this. There was so
much strain on the beach
gear that several of the 1 5/8 inch cables parted.
The quick solution to the
problem was to take both ends of the parted cable
and tie them together with
a square knot. When these cables were tied, the
square knot was probably
20 to 25 feet long. After a strain was taken, and
the beach gear recovered,
the knots were compressed to about two feet long.
Cdr. Laessle, the Fleet
Salvage Officer, took one of the knots back to
ServPac for display.
The Current would send a working party over to the
Beaverbank everyday. It was
my job to make radio contact with the Current and
tell them how many people we
had over there so the Current's cooks could provide
a meal for the working party.
The first day the food came and there wasn't enough
for everybody to make even
one sandwich. The next day, being smarter, I padded
the count and we had enough
food. On the way back to Pearl Harbor, I mentioned
to Capt. Minard that I had been
padding the count. His response was: " You too! "
He had been padding the count also.
On another occasion, watermelons were being served
on the ship. Cdr. Laessle, who
was aboard the Beaverbank, requested a watermelon.
The watermelon was delivered
to the boat crew, who promptly ate it. Cdr. Laessle
wanted to know where his
watermelon was, and consequently, so did the
Captain. Unfortunately, there were
no more watermelons left so the Commander's request
wasn't filled.
Paul Bublitz, ET3
USS Current from 1958 - 1960
paul_bublitz@yahoo.com
|
|
| Date : 02-04-07
|
| Name : Jennifer Richards
|
| E-mail : socialbee2004-genealogy@yahoo.com
|
| Message : I just found my
grandfather's (Ralph M. Webber) military records. He served in the
Navy from 12/19/41 to 10/27/47. He was listed as a crewmember on the
USS Current. Does anyone remember him? I would like to hear from
you.
|
| Date : 2- 2-
2007
|
| Name : Francyllen
(Smitty ) Smith |
| E-mail Address :
leejrusn@yahoo.com
|
| I got a
letter and Christmas card from Bob Ruegge
and I talked to Dave Nowak before Christmas.
They both sound good. Bob has retired and
Dave is going to retire this summer.
Smitty
|
| Date : Feb. 1,
2007 |
| Name : Robert
Arnold |
| E-mail Address : bob6706@aol.com
|
| Jim - you
did a good job on the site. I talked to
Ferguson the last time I was in Washington
and hear from Seaman all the time. Looking
for the Kjelsrud brothers, Gary & Mark
(Anybody hears from them let me know). If
there is a reunion - please contact me.
Bob
January
26,
2007
My father, MM1/c George A. Skrivanek, passed
away 11/12/06.
I want you to know he took great delight in
the knowledge that the legacy of the USS Current
had not been forgotten and was very happy to be
listed on the ship's roster. He was proud of his
service in WWII and of his service on the
Current.
Thank you very much for creating this site.
If you are accepting donations to help maintain
the USS Current website, I would be honored to
make a donation in my father's name. Please
advise me as to how this can be done.
Thank you and may God bless you and yours and
all who served on the USS Current.
Jim
– I
think
this
is
the
shot
that
was
used
in
the
recent
Towline.
This
was
long
after
I
was
aboard
–
but
the
location
made
it
seem
like
yesterday,
including
dress
ship
(we
were
there
over
Thanksgiving
’54),
and
the
bum
boat
tied
up
aft.
The
boats
and
davits
were
new
– we
had
a
Work
Boat
and
a
Whale
Boat
which
doubled
as a
gig.
We
had
a
20mm
gun
in a
tub
over
the
anchor
windlass,
but
they
carried
away
in a
storm
in
the
South
China
Sea.
I
may
try
to
put
together
a
brief
article
using
our
cruise
report
for
’54-55
–
Japan,
Hong
Kong,
Manila,
Saigon,
etc.
What
fun
for
a
boot
ensign
Richard
Jim – great job on this. I’ll try to
think of something for the Stories. Did
you see that the third cover of
“Towline” (NAFTS) magazine had the old
barge, dressed ship, in Hong Kong?
Brought back many memories.
Richard Diekman
radiekman@earthlink.net
|
| Date : 01/09/07
|
| Name : Shep
|
| E-mail Address :
Dr.Harley@comcast.net
|
| Count me in for
the next get together. I have been in
touch with Ron Bromley's daughter and we are
working on getting him there also. I plan on
making a trip later in the year to see him.
Happy New Year to all !
Shep |
| Date : 12- 21-
2006
|
| Name : Francyllen
Smith Jr. (Smitty)
|
| E-mail Address : leejrusn@yahoo.com
|
| Hey
Spick, I talked to Dave Nowak and he wants to
come to our next get together. Did
George tell you we want to some thing in the
spring. Merry Christmas.
Smitty
|
|
Date : Dec. 4, 2006
|
| Name : Gary
Goode |
| E-mail Address : houses@mc.net
|
| I was
on 66 - 70. I was the tall cook. I was 1/4
or 1/5 of the group who had Apartment PH 14
or Pent House #14. Remember, I
do not remember a lot of names but I know we
had a good close crew. We stuck
together all of us.
Gary
|
|
Date : 10 26 06 |
|
Name : Francyllen (Smitty) Smith
|
|
E-mail Address : leejrusn@yahoo.com |
|
Jerry,
Maybe we can get some
others to come next year. I have been trying
to call Dave Nowak but haven't had any luck.
Had a good time last weekend.
Smitty
|
| Date : Oct. 25,
2006 |
| Name : Jerry
Spickler |
| E-mail Address : brickletter@aol.com |
| Hey Smitty, read your message and will be
looking forward to emailing you and talking
or seeing you again.
Jerry
|
| Date :
10 23 06 |
| Name : Francyllen
Smith Jr. (Smitty EN3 ) |
| E-mail Address :
leejrusn@yahoo.com |
| Just
spent the weekend with George Hartnagel ,
Jerry Spickler, and Tom Jarboe. Was the
first time I've seen Tom in 42 years! We
meet in Marion, Indiana. We plan to
make this a yearly get together. Any one
interested in coming next year please email
one of us !
Smitty
|
|
|
|
DOES ANYONE KNOW WHO THE PHANTOM POET
WAS 1957-58?
|
Ron "Sam" Broedling
madap12@aol.com |
|
|
| |
I BELIEVE IT WAS 1958, I WAS OIL AND WATER KING. WE HAD
RIPPED THE STARBOARD TANKS OPEN RUNNING OVER A SUNKEN SHIP
IN MANILA HARBOR. WE STEAMED AROUND TO OLONGOPO AND
WENT INTO DRY-DOCK FOR REPAIRS.
WE HAD A NEW ENGINEERING OFFICER WHO HAD BEEN IN
SUBMARINES FOR 20 YEARS AND THE CURRENT WAS HIS FIRST
SURFACE VESSEL.
THE CURRENT HAD SETTLED WITH A LITTLE LIST IN THE DRY-DOCKS
AND HE CAME LOOKING FOR ME TO
PUMP THE
LIST OFF THE SHIP !
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| |
|
|
Any plans in the near
future for a reunion ?
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|
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