SEASON GREETINGS WORLD WAR II POSTCARD U.S.S. SNAPPERPainting by l. R. Lloyd (PASSED BY NAVAL CENSOR psa)

CHRISTMAS BELOW THE SEA

Housed in small quarters
shut off from the outside world.
Deep, deep below the sea,
thoughts of survival keeping watch.
The cook roast a chicken or turkey,
to celebrate this special season.
Fifteen minutes time out to eat
back to the work station

keeping watch deep below
or above the unpredictable seas.
No time to remember Christmas.
A moment of weak emotions
makes a difference of life or death.
Christmas as other holidays are hidden
deep inside each man who choose to serve
 aboard a World War II submarine.
© By Mary Nida Smith

December 7, 2008 is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was 67 years ago in 1941. There are about 5,000 members living today that survived that attack. To learn more of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Project click on http://www.pearlharborstories.org/ . Ervin o. Schmidt RM1/C (SS) USN-RET who lives in Washington State was aboard the USS California at that time. Ninety-eight crew members were lost and sixty-one wounded. A motorized launch pulled Mr. Schmidt from the sea. In the confusion he was listed as missing in action. Before his family learned differently, they held a funeral in his honor. Later he joined the USS Submarine Service where he served on the USS Saury and the USS Torsk. He is a member of the USS Submarine Veterans WWII. Mr. Schmidt allowed his story to be in my book, Submarine Stories of World War II. I am most grateful to all the men who shared their stories with me. Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day December 7, 2008 Arkansas State Capital 3 p.m. Lite lunch served after the ceremony Please attend with your Legion cap on (USSVI vest/hats). There will be several Pearl Harbor survivors in attendance. Submitted by Frank and Suzan Kaye Commander Kirk Smith, USSVI Twin Lakes Base and I had a wonderful welcome as we spoke at the Baxter Country Library November 26th. I’ll be at Baxter County Library, Mountain Home, AR Sunday, December 7 from 2-4 p.m., during “Authors Day” book sale & signing.

George McMinn served on the USS Haddo (SS-255) during World War II.

Mr. McMinn has been an active member of the Arkansas Submarine Veterans of World War II, Diamond Chapter since the beginning. This year Mr. McMinn, as many other USS Veterans WWII have been battling health problems. They are in our thoughts and prayers.

Interesting website http://www.subsim.com/ lots of information - games, books and articles.

The Sub Report.Com has moved to Blogger -http://thesubreport.blogspot.com/ Your daily source for submarine news and events.

Submarine Veterans of World War II Convention 2009 will be at Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Woody Byrd USS Sennet and member of the Arkansas Submarine Veterans of WWII -Diamond Chapter sailed on his last patrol the last week of October 2008.

My heroes . . . The Submarine Veterans of World War Two by John (Gumba) Carcioppolo, May 12, 2007 First presented at the US Submarine Veterans of WWII North East Regional Convention 2007 (Please forgive me for adding commas and periods to your most thoughtful poem to allow it to fit in this space.)

As you take her down, and take her deep And level off at 400 feet.

Remember well those who went before who rest in peace on the ocean floor.Their boats rust in silence, and yearn to tell their story of how the crew died defending Old Glory. It's up to us to always remember how you fought the war after 7 December"The Submarines are all we have left" it was told. As boats departed on war patrols. It was to the Submarine Force that we turned after the Pacific Fleet was sunk and burned. While the fleet rebuilt you held the lines and kept sinking targets time after time. From Pearl out to Midway and the Sea of Japan you all were committed down to a man. Slowly but surely and one by one. You sank the ships with the Rising Sun. All enemy ships you did attack. Sadly one in five boats did not come back.You cleared the seas of enemy shipping. And their mighty warships were also slipping beneath the waves to the ocean floor to attack Americans never more.You did great things in that long war, as you filled the history books with your lore. If things went well a broom you’d fly. But if things went wrong shipmates would wait and cry.You won this war with nerves of steel and veins of ice. But our Submarine Force paid a heavy price. It started with SEA LION in late forty one and ended with BULLHEAD before it was done. PERCH, TRITON and KETE to name a few. And don’t forget others like TROUT and WAHOO. Names like Morton and Dealey were some of the best. But just as important are all the rest. Lockwood said "they went down fighting"to depth charge attacks that were always frightening. We lost 52 boats during World War Two. Over 3600 men, but none of you. You are the ones who did survive. And have always kept their memories alive.For 60 years you have tolled the bell. For all your shipmates who fought like hell. And now as you all turn gray and old. We will tell the stories that we’ve been told.We have the watch and will always remember the Submariners who served after 7 December. We will toll the boats and tell the story of our Brothers of the Phin who went down in glory. Today as our Submarines put out to sea. We reflect on your impact on history. On every boat and on every day, we’ll always remember you paved the way for you are our heroes and there is no doubt living up to your standards is what it’s about. When we wear our dolphins with pride on our chest it’s because of you that we are the best. Like the Marines you are the Proud and the few who served your country in a Submarine Crew you are shining examples of our great Nation and reverently called the Greatest Generation. This poem is my humble tribute to you. My heroes . . . The Submarine Veterans of World War Two (Forward by George Arnold USS Sea Fox)

Twin Lakes Base, Submarines WWII, submarine display, speaking engagement and book signing: The Twin Lakes Base meeting is October 28th at the Elks. Oct 31-Nov 2, I will be attending the Arkansas Submarine Veterans WWII, Diamond Chapter gathering at Eureka Springs, AR. The month of November the Twin Lakes Base will have a display of submarine memorabilia at the Baxter County Library, Mountain Home, AR. November 26, 1:30 pm, Commander Wayne Kirk Smith and Mary Nida Smith, will be the speakers at the meeting of the Friends of the Library. Sunday, December 7, 2:00-4:00 pm, I will be one of the authors at the library’s Books Sale & Signing Event.

If you were aboard the USS Carbonero (SS-337) during any of the following dates: May & June 1965 August & September 1966 or April & May 1968, you should contact the nearest VA Medical Center and request an evaluation from their Environmental Agents Group.This was the boat that was used for the SHAD testing to determine vulnerabilities to chemical and/or biological warfare.For more information contact Ted McAnly - his email address is thmjmac@netzero.net .

Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Seven, NAS, Norfolk, Virginia, was originally established in April 1956, after one year of practice. MELVIN TOLBERT SMITH SOCA (SS) JOINED 1 JUNE 1955, TRANSFERRED 1 NOVEMBER 1961 TO FLEET RESERVE/ RECRUITING STATION – PORTLAND OREGON. 1958-59 Smith was Chief SON/C. He was Chief over about 100 Sonarman during their training. There were about 400 men in each squadron – His Squadron was the first to have a Sonarman. Many of the photos Smith has in his files are Official United States Navy Photographs: CARRIER USS LEYTE (CVS-32), and the USS -1 AIRCRAFT HSS-7 in flight (7/18/58). Commander H.M. Nelson, Secretary of the Navy William B. Franke and Melvin T. Smith in 1958 preparing to go aboard the HSS-7 (another photo has Smith buckling in the Secretary of the Navy). A photo of Smith as Commander Mac A. Graham presented him a letter from Admiral John Smith Thach, USN (1958-1959). Four other Chief Sonarman under Smith was present in the same photo. Admiral Thach was in command of an antisubmarine development unit, with VALLEY FORGE (CVS-45) SERVING AS HIS FLAGSHIP. Smith received the “HELICOPTER RESCUE CERTIFICATE - Know All Men By These Presents that SOC M.T. SMITH USN has been awarded THE “WINGED S” AIR RESCUE EMBLEM having participated in a successful life-saving operation with a Sikorsky Helicopter January 15, 1957 sign by Mr. Sikorsky and L.S. Johnson, General Manager and a Letter of Commendation: “The operation took place while operating from the USS LEYTE. Where Smith was the Sonar Operator of Ho48-3 Buno 138529, which was airborne nearby… Smith and the pilot, LTJG MURRY H. WRIGHT, USS performed this mission demonstrated a high degree of training and skill on the part of both the pilot and crewmen….” Signed by H.M. Nelson. They saved the life of Edmund J. Paczkowski who Mel had spent two days training. Four helicopters take off, Mel and the Captain of the fleet are the last ones to take off going out and coming in they are the first to take off the carrier 23 January 1957. A Letter of Appreciation during SPRINGBOARD 1958, period 24 January – 25 February 1958 (Smith invented by Water Telephone) “Commanding Officer, Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron SEVEN … sign by J.S. Thach COMMANDERS: H.M. NELSON, MAC A. GRAHAM, AND C.R. JOHNSON Melvin T. Smith remembered losing two choppers on the VALLEY FORGE (CVS-45).

It is time to put together the S-28 column for the next All Clear newsletter. Please write back with family updates or any interesting stories you can remember. Anything relating to life aboard, qualifying, standing watches, the food, the people you worked or had liberty with, anything at all. Thanks very much.Terry Kuhn, Yankee Doodle Dandygram Editor yddeditor@gmail.com The All Clear newsletter is the official journal of North Carolina Subvets - Editor /Publisher Jerry "Patch" Paciorek ibpatch@yahoo.com

Charlie "Doc" Rose was a Vietnam Corpsman who wrote a book on his experiences, "Corpsman Up." I wish my brother who served in Vietnam would read this book or I should say, I wish people who know him, but who has never served, or been in the middle of the war would read it. People who serve, go to a war zone and what happens to them is real, very real. Check out Charlie website http://www.charliedocrose.com/

Military website to keep in touch with those veterans you have served with over the years. Check out http://www.togetherweserved.com/ The Twin Lakes Base of the United States Submarine Veterans Inc (USSVI) is sponsoring its first-ever all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast next Saturday, October 11th, from 7-10 am at the American Legion Building, 717 Market Street, Mountain Home (turn between new Liberty Bank on Hwy 62 and old Wal-Mart); watch for signs. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, biscuits & gravy, OJ & coffee. $5 donation per adult, $3 for kids under 10. Proceeds from this event will benefit the MHHS Naval Junior ROTC program.

HOLLAND CLUB MEMBER, UNITED STATES SUBMARINE VETERANS INC.

TWIN LAKES BASE, MOUNTAIN HOME, ARKANSAS

Back Roll L-R Ralph Klotz, Robert Holzapfel, HC Davis, Duane Goodlett, George Harlow

Front Roll L-R Melvin Smith, Robert Lents, Larry Noker

Members not present: Dave Latimer, Bob Buschbacker, Richard Doro, David Latimer, Bill McKinney, John Scairpon

The Twin Lakes Base has twenty-nine members plus two associate members.

----- Original Message ----- From: Alex Buder To: marynida@lakeviewnet.com Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 5:01 PM Subject: Documentary TV Series about WWII Submarine Veterans Dear Ms. Smith, My name is Alex Buder and I am an associate producer at Story House Productions, an award winning television and film documentary company based out of Washington, DC. We are currently in pre-production on a new TV documentary series centered around American WWII submarines and were wondering if you would be willing to assist us in bring the patriotic real life tales of the officers and crew to the screen. Specifically we were hoping that you could help put us in touch with the actual veterans who served aboard the submarines during the War so that we could ask them if they would be willing to be interviewed as part of the series. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you! Best Regards, -Alex Buder Alex Buder Associate Producer Story House Productions 2233 Wisconsin Ave. NW Washington, DC 20007 202-464-7260 buder@storyhousepro.com _ Original Message ----- From: Alex Buder To: Mary Nida Smith Sent: Thursday, August 21, 2008 2:21 PM Subject: RE: Documentary TV Series about WWII Submarine Veterans Dear Mary Nida, Thank you so much for both your quick and extremely informative response. We are currently in the pre-production phase but wanted to include a rough figure for the number of veterans we were hoping to interview as part of the series and to do this we needed to get in contact with these men in order to be in the accurate with our estimate. Needless to say, the names you provided have launched us well over the top for the number we were hoping to get on such short notice and we thank you profusely. The series itself is currently in pre-production to be broadcast on the History Channel and will focus on the key moments in the tours of several American Submarines in the Pacific Theater of World War II. It is our goal to introduce a new generation as well as those who sadly do not normally have an interest in their history to the patriotic and brave real life experiences of the WWII submarine crews. We are planning to accomplish this through a mixture of 3D animation of the ships and environments with interviews of the actual sailors and examinations of the technology, tactics, and strategies used by the crews. In essence we are seeking to grab the viewers with the animation then show them that each episode was a real, serious event and those who experienced it are the greater and most important elements of the series than any 3D computer generated movie sequence. Since we are in pre-production we do not have a fixed timeline for when we would be conducting the interviews. As I mentioned, we are specifically looking to see how many crewmembers might be interested in participating in the series. Our company has a wealth of experience conducting interviews with military individuals and those who have experienced traumatic events, though in my opinion these interviews will far out shine them by miles. If you’d like to explore our previous work, please feel free to explore our website at www.storyhousepro.com. Specifically, I’d recommend looking at our documentary on the USS Cole. Once again, thank you for getting back to me so expediently and for assisting us with the series. Best Regards, -Alex Buder Alex Buder Associate Producer Story House Productions 2233 Wisconsin Ave. NW Washington, DC 20007 202-464-7260 buder@storyhousepro.c

Subject: USS Lapon Skipper Whitey Mack Whitey Mack, the renowned submarine skipper of USS Lapon, [which] made the historic and epic advances into Soviet Waters during the Cold War, is [now] in the final stages of pancreatic cancer and not expected to survive.Pass this info on to other submariners, as many will remember the stories outlined in . . . Blind Man's Bluff. Whitey was our engineering officer on Seawolf, SSN 575, in the late 50's; [he] went on to become one of the youngest submarine captains in American history!Willard Ross Jr., STSCS (SS), USN, Retired.Received from Bob Miller, WD6 Commander Forwarded (and updated) by Mike Hyman, San Diego Base

Branson Boat Reunions October 08 - Oct 7-10 USS PICKEREL SS-524, Oct 15-19 USS RATON SS/SSR/AGSS-270, Oct 22-26 USS CHOPPER SS-342, Oct 26-30 USS BUGARA SS-331 and Oct 30-Nov1 USS DIODON SS-349. All boat reunions are listed in the American Submariner magazine or on line at http://www.ussvi.org Read Max McCoy, journalist and author's commentary on his blog BACKSTORY at http://www.maxmccoy.com/blog

POW/MIA DAY, September 19th. Fly your flag. Today, very few people know that during World War II, some submariners were taken prisoner. Robert (Bob) W. Lents, a member of the Twin Lakes Submarine Base USSVI, Mountain Home, Arkansas is a Charter Member of the US Submarine Veterans POW Survivors Association. He was aboard the USS Perch (SS-176). The USS Perch crew members - fifty-two were saved at the end of the war. Eight died in captivity.

Submarine Veterans in the path of Hurricane Ike. Received from Ralph Luther, crew member of the USS Sennet SS-408, that John McMichael and his wife lost everything except for the motor home they evacuated in. They live in Galveston where he is the curator of the USS Cavalla SS-244 and the USS Stewart which is one of the remaining WWII DE's Museums. They were damaged and moved some. The Navy Historical Ships Association will tend to them. If any shipmates or others would like to help the McMichael, please get in touch with: USS Sennet SS-408 C/O Ralph Luther P.O. Box 864 Summerville, SC 29484-0864

The Subreport correction: http://www.thesubreport.com great website for daily updates on submarine news. Check it out.

Ron Smith, Submarine Veteran of World War II and author went on Eternal Patrol at 0615, Friday, September 12, 2008. He served with Joe Blanchett on the USS Seal (SS-183) and was a friend of Carl Schmidt, Central Region, Regional Director USSWI. Ron had many friends. He was the author of TORPEDMAN 1993 and THE DEPTHS OF COURAGE: AMERICAN SUBMARINERS AT WAR WITH JAPAN 1941-1945) by Flint Whitlock and Ron Smith. To Ron Smith: Calm sailing with blue skies. Thanks for your written words you left behind to help us remember the price you, and all the submarine veterans of World War II paid, so we could enjoy the freedoms we have today.

The Subreport, Batfish and Decks Awash! The Subreport at http://www.subreport.com/ is the most interesting, knowledgeable, submarine updated news website you'll ever read. I was excited to read that the Batfish reunion crew is planning a work week October 19-25 - For more information get in touch with Rick Dennis, War Memorial Park manager 684-6298 in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Read more about it on The Subreport. Also, there is a picture of the USSVI subvets convention in Texas. Thanks to Eric S. Ryle for placing information for WWII submarine stories wanted by Story House Productions on his blog - DECKS AWASH! http://decksawash.blogspot.com/

Bull Shoals Historical Society Meeting - Monday, September 15th, Bull Shoals Presbyterian Church in Bull Shoals, AR at 3:00 p.m. Guest speaker will be Mary Nida Smith sharing stories from her book , SUBMARINE STORIES OF WORLD WAR II for ages ten and up.

website: http://marynidasmith.homestead.com update

Boat Reunions - USS Razorback SS-394 September 7-10, Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, North Little Rock, Arkansas. Robert Opple bopple@aol.com 425-747-1247 USS Nautilus (SSN-571) 50th Anniversary of 1957 & 1958 Arctic Explorations. September 25-28, Groton Motor Inn, Groton, CT. Joe Degnan 860-460-4265 panopo@gmail.com www.users.gotsky.com/cave Melvin Tolbert Smith, STC (SS) USN-RET was aboard for that short time as an extra Sonarman. USS Sea Cat (SS - 399) September 28-October 4, 2008 at Branson, Missouri- Ramada Inn & Conference Center Phone 417-334-1000 Neal Chandler beaufox@aol.com Wayne B. Goodenow ET1 (SS) USN was assigned to the USS Sea Cat in 1944. Wayne's story is in the book, Submarine Stories of World War II by Mary Nida Smith

Story House Productions - Wednesday, 20 August, 2008 I received an email from Alex Buder, associate producer at Story House Productions, a television and film documentary company based out of Washington, DC. They are in pre-production of a new TV documentary series of American Submarines in the Pacific Theater during World War II and experiences of crew members to be shown on the History Channel. They produced the documentary on the USS Cole. Their website is http://www.storyhousepro.com Mr. Buder is requesting stories from WWII Submariners to be sent by e-mail or by regular mail to: Alex Buder, Associate Producer Story House Productions 2233 Wisconsin Ave., NW Washington, DC 2007 202-464-7260 buder@storyhousepro.com

USS Snook and USS Razorback:

James W. Barnes, Associate Vice Commander of the Arkansas U.S. Submarine Veterans WWII, Diamond Chapter sent some photos to be placed in the next newsletter and my blog. The picture shows the improvements going on at the USS Snook (SS-279) U.S. Submarine Veterans W.W. II Memorial near the USS Razorback (SS-394) at Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum at 100 Riverfront Drive, North Little Rock, AR http://www.aimm.museum/ or http://www.razorbackbase.com/

James said, " The city is making some upgrades around the memorial. They are putting up a wrought iron fence and sod." Photos were taken August 18, 2008. More photos will be placed in the next newsletter with some of the background of the USS Snook.

I have so much information I would like to share, of all the hard work the Diamond

Chapter did to have this memorial in Arkansas. But, space is limited. They also are involved with the Razorback Base and continued work on repairs on the USS Razorback.

Twin Lakes Base meeting and lunch at the Elks Club in Mountain Home , AR is Tuesday, August 26. The membership continues to grow, so don't miss out in supporting your buddies. They are a fun group.

A story was published in the Polaris/August issue of one of Melvin T. Smith submarine experiences.

Submarine Vets, USS Trigger (SS-237), book comment and submarine paintings.The 54th National Convention US Submarine Veterans of WWII, Louisville, Kentucky September 1-6, 2008.

The photo belongs to Larry Nokes. Larry never served on USS Trigger, he was with the relief crew during refit. The USS Trigger's battle flag is hanging on a screen door of a small cafe. Larry served aboard the USS Pampanito (SS-383).

John S. Smith Jr., producer of Louisiana's Greatest Generation Documentary said this about my book, Submarine Stories of World War II, " Your book is excellent, essay read! Congratulations!! I especially enjoyed Bill Grieves story on board the Thresher. What drama!! It would make a good move!"

Submarine Art and Paintings by Laura Ross http://www.submarinepaintings.com/

I have finished a 12-page newsletter for the Arkansas Diamond Chapter, Submarine Veterans of World war II. I have 80 to copy and mail. I am down to 30 to copy and mail and I am done. My book continues to receive good comments. The readers who knew little about submarines and the special type of men who served aboard, were overwhelmed by their stories. My independent publisher produced only a limit amount. At this time I am looking for another publisher. I would like to see this book in the schools. It is a n easy read for children ages ten and up.

Blogging is a fast growing tool to promote books and yourself. Do you want to learn about "Blog Book Tours," designing a blog and making connections, click on http://www.missouriwritersguild.org/. Click on "Articles About Writing" to read Blogs are Very Important by Mary Nida Smith

WWII Submarine Veterans numbers are down to fewer than 3,000. Reach out, ask for their stories, and thank them for a job well done. Thank all veterans. I am excited, for tomorrow I will become associate member of the USSVI Twin Lakes Base, Mountain Home, Arkansas.

Submarine Stories of World War II

by Mary Nida Smith

The book was written to record what the Submarine Veterans of World War II endured. Written for children ten and up. Most of the veterans entered the service

when they were teens and it was their first time away from home.

Nine submarines share their stories.

William Dreher USS Boarfish SS-327

Melvin T. Smith USS Snapper SS-185

Marion Shinn USS Guavina SS-362

James Davidson USS Guitarro SS-363

Wayne Goodenow USS Sea Cat SS-399

Billy Grieves USS Thresher SS-200

Gail Diamond USS Scorpion SS-278

Joseph Blanchett USS Seal SS- 183

Ervin O Schmidt USS Saury SS-189

Included in the book are WWII Submarine patches & battle flags,

submarine memorabilia, statistics, a glossary and photos. A poem by Irma, wife of Wayne Goodenow. They were married for 59 nine years before he rested his oars. He didn't get to see the book in print, he passed away shortly after I received his story.

A limited addition has been published and it is looking for a publisher for an up coming addition.

I still have a few copies. To order one or more send $12.00 each, plus $2.00 each for postage to Mary Nida Smith 162 Stamford Drive, Lakeveiw, AR 72642 Thank you!

Submarines Stories, Military writers conference, & book authors. I want to thank the editor of U.S. Submarine Veterans WWII/Minnesota Viking Squadron for sending me their newsletter. A quote from their editor, "It's hard to believe, but this newsletter has been in existence for 48 years!?! It's also hard to believe that we have all been around for 80 years and more." The Military Writers Society of America 2008 Conference will be in San Antonio, Texas November 10-11-12 for more information go to their website http://militarywriters.com/newsletter. It will be in May/June issue or email President Tony Lazzarini, tlazzarini@earthlink.net He and his wife are wonderful people. Information provided by Ralph Luther - Crew members of the USS Sennet (SS-408) http://www.sennet.org/ who have published books. Sarn't Jamey Doan by Jim Brannon ( A fiction about a Civil War Rifleman.) and The Slight Edge by Lee Weidner. Provided by Commander Kirk Smith of the Twin Lakes Base an interesting story, A Nuclear Submarine in the Vietnam War by Admiral Charles R. Larsen, U.S. Navy (Retired), with Captain Clinton Wright, U.S. Navy (Retired) and Paul Stillwell. It can be read on the USS Nathanael Greene website. Check out the USS Sea Fox (SS-402) http://seafoxassoc.homestead.com/ George Arnold and other crew members keeps this updated with all the members news , newsletter and crew list.

Final Patrol by Don Keith, a book dedicated to submarines being preserved as museums with the fighting history of these boats that should never come to appear as old boats ready for the scrapyard. Included is some of the officers and crew members; Crew members names were never listed on patrol reports, only the officers in time of war. They are part of a slowly disappearing special group of men who were sworn to silents while they rode the depth of the sea in submarines to eliminate the enemy roaming the same waters. A very informative written "Prologue" that causes the readers who knows nothing or little about the history of the submarine service to ponder - is this real? It is real, yet verily touches on what the brave men endured. During children's vacations the US Navy Submarine Museums should be number one on the list for places to adventure in, to touch part of history that most kids and adults know nothing about. Please take this book with you as your tour guide. Thanks to D.C. Smay, editor of the newsletter KLAXON, San Diego chapter, U.S. Submarine Veterans WWII for sending me their newsletter. Thanks to George Harlow, a member of the USSVI Twin Lakes Submarine Base for donating the book, FINAL PATROL by Don Keith to the Baxter County Library.

Military handbooks, Vietnam book and searching for boats and crews information. The 2008 free Military Handbooks are now available go to http://www.militaryhandbooks.com/.

Six available books:

• Base Installation Directory
• U.S. Military Retired Handbook
• Getting Uncle Sam to Pay for Your College Degree
• Benefits for Veterans and Dependents Handbooks
• Military Children's Scholarship Handbook
• U.S. Military Handbook

Searching for submarines/boats and their crews go to http://www.ussvi.org/ and click on BOATS AND CREWS button. Then click the FIND A BOAT and select the boat of your choice. Click on the underlined hull number, click the LIST CREW MEMBERS button. Find the CUSTOM SEARCH button where you can enter years aboard. This information was provided by Patrick Householder NJVC.

This book manuscript THE SILENT KNOWING: VIETNAM AND THE LOSS OF OUR FATHERS, a non-fiction written by Candance Browning Moonshower. It is well-written manuscript about Candi's father who had spent over twenty years in the U.S. Army, most of it in Vietnam where he lost his life when his helicopter was shot down in 1968. Filled with family pictures and of her Dad in the service. I believe this is a very important book and it should find a publisher who will published it. To read an excerpt click on http://www.candimoonshower.com/

My email: marynida@lakeviewnet.com Please check out my other blogs and website.

Louisiana's Greatest Generation. When I returned from a week away, I found mail from John S. Smith from Louisiana ordering my book. He also, sent a demo promotional trailer DVD of Louisiana's Greatest Generation documentary he is producing. It touches emotional nerves and you cry out, "Darn wars, why, why." This is a project each state should create to honor their military personnel who served in all wars and conflicts, for death has no chosen age group. http://www.louisianasgreatestgeneration.com/ During the course of one of his interviews, he found Lou Coles, the widow of MoMM1 Hubert Coles who was aboard the USS Trigger (SS_237) on that fatal day 27 March 1945 and was struck from the Navy list 11 July 1945 - All hands lost. Mr. Smith said, "Mrs. Coles is 94 and extremely sharp. She vividly recalls details and even got to go aboard the Trigger in 1944 when it was at Mare Island for repairs." Mr. Smith would like to interview someone who served on the USS Trigger that may have known Mr. Coles or had served on it before it was lost. If anyone has any information get in touch with Mr. Smith at johnsmith@louisianasgreatestgeneration.com. There is lots of information on the USS Trigger on different sites. NavSource Online: Submarine Photo Archives http://www.navsource,org/archives/08/08237.htm, http://www.atule.com/USS_Trigger_SS_237.htm, http://www.oldsubsplace.com/USS%20Trigger.htm, and http://aimmatnir.blogspot.com/2008/03/in-memoriam-uss-trigger-ss-237-lost-26.html, just to point out a few. To find military buddies go to http://www.military.com/ To order a copy of my book, Submarine Stories of World War II, send $12.00 plus $2.00 for postage to Mary Nida Smith, 162 Stamford Drive, Lakeview, AR 72642. Thank you to everyone who has ordered my book.

More pictures showing off all the special subvets and their families. I do hope those who are traveling will have a safe trip and stay healthy.

May 19th, 2008 the 4th Annual USSVI Twin Lakes Submarine Base, Mountain Home, AR Picnic near Norfork Lake. The cold breeze from the lake mingled with the warm bright sun rays. Picnic always provide lot of food by wonderful cooks. There was a large group enjoying each others company. By the time the photos were taken several had left including us. I see I missed a photo some where, I don't see Carolyn Lents sitting in a chair. I hope I didn't some how delete it. husband who was a prisoner during WWII, he has a torn retina. We are all praying he doesn't have to have surgery. The photos were sent to us by Commander Kirk Smith.

North Central Convention of the USS Submarine Veterans of World War II is June 4-6th at The Oaks Hotel & Conference Center 330 So. Frontage Rd, Burr Ridge, IL I-55 & 1-294 phone 1-866-445-7820 ussubvet2@yahoo.com

U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II are having their 37th Annual Northwest Regional Convention in Butte, Montana June 4-7, 2008. They will be staying at the War Bonnet Inn at 2100 Cornell, Butte, MT 406-494-7800 - mention Subvets of WWII. We use to meet with them when we lived in Twin Falls, Idaho and Manchester, Washington.

MEMORIAL DAY MAY 26, 2008 REMEMBERING DOES NOT START OR STOP ON THIS DAY. IT IS EVERYDAY WE REMEMBER. WE MUST NOT FORGET THE PRICE THEY PAID.

FOR THE ONES GOD RETURNED TO US STEP OUT - REACH OUT TO THE LONELY WHO SIT BEHIND CLOSE DOORS - SAY THANK YOU, BY SPENDING SOME TIME VISITING OR TAKE HIM OR HER OUT TO DINNER.

GOD BLESS AMERICA AND OUR FREE WAY OF LIFE.

Submarine Stories of WWII by Mary Nida Smith for ages ten and up. A book for boys to learn how the submarine veterans help save the world and the people of America from being captured. And how they sunk enemy ships carrying guns and supplies to their men to kill our men in the military forces on land , sea, and sky. To order a copy send $12.00 plus $2. postage to Mary Nida Smith, 162 Stamford Drive, Lakeview,AR 72642. Thank you. The U.S. Submarine Veterans World War II was founded in 1955 and Federally Chartered 1981. Their magazine Polaris may close down in the Fall 09. A sad day. Many of the WWII Veterans have join the different USSVI bases. In 08, 1,072 Subvets remain in the USSVI. The Twin Lakes Base had their yearly picnic near Norfork Lake yesterday. It was a sunny day with a cool breeze. Had a large turn out and lots of food. Building friendships and supporting each other is what it is all about. Don't forget to check for a meeting or a reunion near you. Join the Fleet Reserve Association. A great group. I attended there yearly picnic today. They will have their National Conference this year at Branson's Radisson Hotel. http://www.fra81.org/ The Navy Then and Now http://www.linking.to/navy Sonarman and HU-I - I would like to know where I can get information on who was the first Sonarman and what submarine was the first to have sonar installed. Also, some history on the HS-7 helicopters. Charles Kalba is doing better. Please keep all our military men and women in our prayers. When will we learn to talk peace until we are blue in the face. Yes, I know the difference in war when we the people have no choice, but to protect ourselves.

NavyTV telling the story of the Navy men and women to the world at http:www.navytv.org and two submarine websites http://www.subvetpaul.com and http://ww.ussubvetsofworldwarii.org. Check the website of Military Writers Society of America's President Tony Lazzarini, at http://www.tlazz.com. You will find a writer with many different interest, from the book he has published on his helicopter experiences in Vietnam, a children's play and collecting cars. He is also a member of the Left Coast Writers and American Authors Association.

Arkansas World War II Submarine Veteran Charles Kalba sailed aboard the USS Jack SS-259 and the USS Saury SS-189. Mr. Kalba needs our prayers and cards of encouragement. He has been battling a tough stain of pneumonia since December 2007. I received this information from Anne Williams for her Papaw April 18. His address is Charles Kalba, 708 Rosston Road, Prescott, AR 71857.

As their newsletter editor I sent out 75 newsletters for the Arkansas Submarine Veterans of World War II April 14. This picture of Mr. Kalba was taken at the Eureka Springs meeting November 07. We hope he'll be able to attend the upcoming meeting this fall.

Update - Read Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell's blog on April 7 at http://www.kcwrite4u.blogspot.com Kerri, a freelance writer and author will have a interview she did about myself and my book, Submarine Stories of World War II.

Twin Lakes Submarine Base, Mountain Home, Arkansas donated 500 hundred dollars to the Gassville Tornado Fund. Their picture was on The Baxter Bulletin newspaper's website and in The Mountaineer Echo, Flippen newspaper. We have a great group of 30 members. I have finished writing the Arkansas Submarine Veterans of World War newsletter. I'll make copies and send out to 80 members. Don't forget 11 April is National Submarine Day. Don' forget to thank a subvet for serving our country. November 2008 the Twin Lakes Base will be displaying their memorabilia in the display case at the Baxter County Library at Mountain Home.

Ervin O. Schmidt RM1/C, a Pearl Harbor survivor. In the summer of 2005, he traveled to Washington D.C. to visit the Memorial of the Torsk I hope you can read this note Mr. Schmidt sent me about how he created the USS Torsk battle flag. You will find his story in my book.

USS Guitarro (SS-363) Battleflag photo is courtesy of USSubvetsofWWII.org

USS Guitarro (SS-363) 21 October 1941, James A. Davidson reported to the receiving station at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Today he is 89 years old living on the Washington Campus located minutes from the White House in Washington D.C. He was at the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Gulfport, Mississippi when Hurricane Katrina arrived. All residents were transferred to Washington. The photo taken while serving in the Navy is courtesy of his daughter Professor Carolyn Davidson Abel, Stephen F Austin State University. The photo taken a couple of years ago was provided by Mr. Davidson. I love that smile.

Information on the USS Guitarro (SS-363) http://en.wilipedia.org/wiki/USS_Guitarro_(SS-363) and the Armed Forces Retirement Homes click on http://www.afrh.gov/. To read his story, James A Davidson YNC (SS) USN-RET who pensioned at the age of 60 as a CWO-4 can be found in Submarine Stories of World War II by Mary Nida Smith. Send $12, plus $2. for mailing to Mary Nida Smith 162 Stamford Drive, Lakeview, AR 72642

Don't forget 11 April is National Submarine Day. Hug a submariner and say a big "thanks." To learn how to adopt a veteran go to http://www.afrh.com/ I, Mary Nida Smith not only adopted a subvet, I married one.

Limit Edition: I am sorry to have to report my book, Submarine Stories of World War II, was published as a limit addition. All rights and copyrights were returned to me. Websites to check out:

• http://seafoxsss402.homestead.com
• www.coldwarsubmarines.com They need cold war submarine stories.
• http://www.submarinewivesclub.org

Magazines: Navel Submarine League, Undersea Warfare, All Hands and Navy Times.

Click on http://www.absolutewrite.com where you will find-Index to agents and publishers. Click on Writer's Beware: 20 worst agents.

"Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here, we may as well dance."

SubmarineSailor.com is the place to find everything you ever wanted to know about submarines and the men who rode them. Check books/Video/DVD where you will find the new book, "The Depths of Courage: American Submariners at War with Japan, 1941-1945," by Ron"Warshot" Smith and Flint Whitlock. Submarine Stories of World War II by Mary Nida Smith is written for ages ten and up. Young boys will enjoy the adventures and danger that submariners endured during their time below and above the sea. Mary Nida Smith is a member of the Wives of U.S. Submarine Veterans W.W.II, the newsletter editor for Arkansas Submarine Veterans of World War II, Diamond Chapter, a member of Military Writers Society of America and the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators.

Melvin T. Smith 1943 Melvin T, Smith 1996 NATIONAL SUBMARINE DAY - April 11th

Submarine Stories of World War II by Mary Nida Smith. Melvin T. Smith, STC (SS) USN-RET a native of Northwest Arkansas breaks his silents to shared his story aboard the USS Snapper (SS-185) in 1943 while on War Patrol. He was assigned Sound and Radar Watch under the watchful eyes of Captain W.W. Walker. Later, he was rated Soundman 3rd Class-Radioman Striker. Smith was there in 1945 when the USS Snapper was decomissioned. He was assigned to the following boats: USS Quillback (SS-424), USS Sennet (SS-408), USS Sea Fox (SS-402), and the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483). He was also assigned to check the Sonar on the German U-boats' U-505, U-2513 and U=3008 after they were brought to the states as valued prizes of World War II. The U-505 is displayed at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, Illinois. In-beween serving on submarines Smith joined the Navy's HS-7 Anti-Submarine Squadron for five years earning his "Wings." Before retiring from the USS Navy he spent two years as a Navy Recruiter at Ontario, Oregon. He is a member of the Holland Club, a plank owning member of the Twin Lakes Base USSVI, Mountain Home, AR, and Submarine Veterans of World War II.

Submarine Stories of World War II by Mary Nida Smith. To order send $12.00 plus $2.00 postage to 162 Stamford Drive, Lakeview, AR 72642

Military Magazines are a good source to make money by pulling out stories from your book(s) and rewrite for publication. Or you can create new stories. Before you start check the guidelines of the magazine(s) to write to their specifications. Click on htttp://www.allyoucanread.com and search military magazines. Military Magazines at http://Amazon.com/magazines and http://militarynow.com/ military links are two websites to find good information and don't forget to check out organizations associated with your military service. Remember, you can write and publish one story, poem or essay at a time and it will draw attention to your book which means more sales. Also, if you don't have a library in your community, find a near-by one or hold a book signing at your local fast food restaurant or the local garage where all the guys meet. Ladies do a signing at your local grocery store, craft store or the beauty salon. Talk to the owner or manager and remind them it will also generate attention to their business. You can both gain from a signing.

Military publishers, books, websites, meetings & conventions and so much more will be put up on this blog. So, keep clicking in. Military publishers can be found listed in the book publishers subject index of the WRITER'S MARKET published by Writer's Digest Books. If you want to learn about military books for children click on http:booksformilitarychildren.info/MiddleGrade.html. Go to your bookstore and library to check who publishes the type of book/books you are writing. Don't forget before you submit, check each one out at Preditors & Editors http://anotherrealm.com/preditors and write or e-mail other authors to ask questions. Professional writers are not afraid to share information. My book Submarine Stories of World War II has been placed on the Missouri Writers Guild Website http://www.missouriwritersguild.org/. Don't give up writing for your stories are important to you, your family and to us all.

SUBMARINE STORIES OF WORLD WAR II by Mary Nida Smith

http://www.thesubreport.com/ is a site updated daily with submarines news and events.It is a very interesting site created and edited by Eric Ryle, a submarine veteran. Thanks Eric for placing my blog on your site.

SUBMARINE STORIES OF WORLD WAR II is written to honor all the men who have served and are serving today on submarines. Nine veterans share their experiences while serving during the 1940s. Many had never been away from home before they ventured beneath the sea to an unknown world of silence to spy and destroy enemy ships. It was a world which quickly changed naive teenagers into men who took home good and painful memories.

William Dreher - USS Boarfish SS-327

Melvin T. Smith USS Snapper-185

Marion Shinn USS Guavina SS-362

James Davidson SS Guitarro SS-363

Wayne Goodenow USS Sea Cat SS-399

Billy Grieves USS Thresher SS-200

Gail Diamond USS Scorpion SS-278

Joseph Blanchett USS Seal SS-183

Ervin O. Schmidt USS Saury SS-189

USS Torsk SS-423

Ervin Schmidt was aboard the USS California BB-44 when it was bombed at Pearl Harbor. James A. Davidson was living at the Armed Forces Retired Home Gulf port, Mississippi when hurricane Katrina arrived.

Irma Goodenow shares a love poem she wrote for her submarine husband of 59 years.

To order send $12.00 plus $2.00 for shipping to 162 Stamford Drive, Lakeview, AR 72642

Thank you.

Members of the Arkansas Submarine Veterans of World War II Diamond Chapter are slowly blending with the Submarine Veterans Inc., which organized years later. November and December was very busy with the release of my non-fiction book Submarine Stories of World War II (for teens & adults) and attending submarine organizations' meetings. Plus, writing articles and the Arkansas Submarine Veterans of World War II newsletter. I mailed 80 last week. Also, an article and photos to the Wives of U.S. Submarine Veterans WWII magazine for the March issue. In-between were the holidays that kept me hopping. Saturday 29 December 2007 we went to the memorial service for Carl Bernard Velner as he sailed on his last patrol. He was a member of the Twin Lakes Submarine Base. He will be missed. I admire the closeness of the members when support is needed. Carl 's boats were the Clamagore SS-343, Manta SS-299, and the Sablefish SS- 303.