St. Marys Submarine Museum
John Crouse, Museum Manager
102 St. Marys, St. Marys, GA 31558-4945
912-882-ASUB (2782)
Gift Shop: gift_shop@tds.net
http:stmaryssubmarinemuseum.com

My book
SUBMARINE STORIES OF WAR WORLD II
can be ordered from the museum gift shop.
Thank you! marynida@lakeviewnet.com

Submarine veterans and all military men & women; Do have a blessed Christmas and a safe, healthy, Happy New Year!

Captain Ira Dye Craig Dye Thursday, 12/17/09, 11:40 AM My father, Capt. Ira Dye, was skipper of the Sea Fox during the late forties and early fifties. I am interested in learning more about the operational activities of the ship during that period. St. Petersburg, Florida cmako88@aol.com

FLAG USS GRENADIER SS-210 POW's made an American flag out of a bed sheet: The picture of the flag and Jerry's father is shown on my Tuesday, November 3, 2009 blog post. Mary, I saw your comment and thought I would give some information about the Flag. The POW waving the Flag in the photo is my father James D. "Slim" Landrum EM1c. He was a crew member on the Grenadier SS210. I have his diaries from his stay as a "guest" of the Japanese. He told me that he and several others made the Flag from a sheet and that he got the pole (fireman's pike" from the fire shed. He said he wanted the American Flag to be in front and large than the other Flags. At on time I had a photo of the flag on the roof of one of the buildings so the planes could see it. He said he gave the flag to one of the other POWs whose last name I think ended with "ski". I have the roster of all of the POWs at Camp Omori. My father gave most of his things away as he was being liberated. The only things I have are two small notebooks he kept notes in. I had dreamed of finding the submarine someday and started diving in 1965 in hopes of someday finding it. I enlisted in the Army in 1966 and volunteered for Vietnam three times with the hopes of visiting some of the POW camps he was in. The ones I remembered were the Light Street Convent in Penang, Singapore, Ofuna, Shinagawa, and Omori. Of course the Army would not send me and I spent my time in the States. There is a group of divers in Malaysia that are supposedly searching for the Grenadier. There are so many things I wish I had done like recording some of the conversations when the survivors would have reunions and when I visited some of them while traveling. Wouldn't it be nice if someone like Clint Eastwood or Tom Hanks would produce a movie like they did with "Flags of our Father's, or "Saving Private Ryan". It's great to know that someone else is trying to find out what happened to the Flag. Hope this sheds a little light on the Flag. Jerry Landrum Thanks Jerry, for your emotional story.

I Remember Here's to us, one and all Who heard the message and answered the call. To break away from the old mainstream and live our lives on a submarine. Sub School gave us the chance to pass the test To declare that we were The Best of the Best. When we left New London with orders in hand, We all headed out on different courses for distant, faraway lands. Some went East coast some went West But no matter where you ended up, your first boat's the best. You reported on board not knowing what to think But now you're known to all as a nub and a dink. You learn about Tradition and learn about Pride, You learn about Honor and the men who have died, You learn about the heritage that's been passed on to you Because now you're considered one of the crew. You study that boat from bow to stern From the conning tower to the bilges, it's your duty to learn Where and what makes that boat go, how it operates and in what direction it flows How to charge those batteries and keep them alive or how to rig the boat for dive. Draw those systems fore and aft, blow the shitters, Check the draft These are duties that you must glean when you live your life on a submarine. When you've learned all there is to know about your boat You show 'em you know it, by your walk through vote. You go before the Qual Board, card in hand Where they question and grill you to beat the band. And when you think you can take no more They tell you to wait just outside the door. For what seems like eons, Time stands still And when they call you in, you feel quite ill! But they congratulate you for doing so good And welcome you into their Brotherhood. Right of passage declares that you must drink your "fish". And the tacking on process is not something you wish, But you wear those dolphins on your chest with pride Because down deep in your heart, you know you're Qualified. It seems like yesterday, it seems like a dream That I truly lived on a submarine. Most Boats are gone, a memory of time I wonder what happened to that crew of mine? The Old Boats that are left, are all museums And even if you rode 'em, you have to pay admission to see 'em. So here's to us, those that remember Who rode the boats out in all kinds of weather. To those past, present and even the future To those young, hardy lads who still love adventure So let's lift our glasses and have a toast To the memory of those daring young sailors and their undersea boats. Dick Murphy IC3-SSUSS Tiru SS-416   Any man or woman who may be asked in this century what they did to make life worthwhile in their lifetime....can respond with a great deal of pride and satisfaction, "I served a career in the United States Navy."

Pearl Harbor: Joseph Wolk (Gunners mate), the father of my cousin Patricia

Hamm, was aboard the USS Tennessee. Next to it was the

USS California when Pearl Harbor was attacked. Aboard it was Ervin O.

Schmidt who later joined the USS Submarine Force where he was assign to the USS Torsk (SS-423). Mr. Schmidt was raised at Marshfield,

Wisconsin, and now lives at Edmonds, Washington.

He is our friend and is in my book.

Submarine Sailor

Poetry can be good for the soul... Submitted by: Pat Householder on 11/30/2009 --------------------------------------------------------- Seattle Base member Don Gentry has collected an entire page of sub poetry at http://www.submarinesailor.com/poetry/ Don also has an excellent submarine reference site at www.submarinesailor.com and a submariners BBS at http://www.bottomgun.com/bbs2/category-view.asp Enjoy! http://www.submarinesailor.com/poetry/

Presumed Lost by Stephen L. Moore Saturday, November 7, 2009 at the Pritzker Military Library Stephen L Moore, author of "Presumed Lost" made a speaking presentation. Presumed Lost is the story of the few men who beat the odds, chronicling the overwhelming difficulty of their escapes - in one case, from 180 feet below the surface - and the brutal conditions they endured at the prison camps. The link takes you to an hour presentation by the author on this subject... http://www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/events/2009/11-07-stephen-moore.jsp Submitted by: Pat Householder 11/25/2009

A Blessed & Healthy Thanksgiving to all who are serving our country and those who have served in the past. Thank you for our freedom to enjoy this holiday.

USS Snook Base: Tim Costello is putting the finishing touches on our Base website. Take a look at it and send him any comments/suggestions you may have. There are some name errors and he is correcting them. http://www.snookbase.com/ I am adding items to the 1MC plus a picture from the Branson Veterans Day parade. On their website is information on how to attain a video filmed during the Arkansas Diamond Chapter, World War II Submarine Veterans Decommissioning Ceremony, October 9-11, 2009 at the Clarion Hotel, Bentonville, Arkansas. Pete-- Strong views are fine, a closed mind is not.

Twin Lakes Submarine Veterans Base, Mountain Home, AR - November 11, 2009. To read the whole story and see photos, click below on the Baxter Bulletin website. Thanks to Commander Wayne "Kirk" Smith for honoring WWII Submarine Veterans. I took many photographs that I will add later. The photo shown (c) by Mary Nida Smith L-R Clay Stacks, Rev. Johnston, George Pastove, Kirk Smith, Dean Frankin, Loyal Huson, Melvin T. Smith, Larry Noker and Bob Lents. http://www.baxterbulletin.com/

Twin Lakes Base USS Submarine Veterans Inc, will be at Mountain Home Square for the Veterans Day Ceremony.

Base Commander Wayne "Kirk" Smith will be the guest speaker.

All military organizations will be present.

Don't forget the men and women who protect our freedoms.

A Tale of Two Subs by Jonathan J. McCullough published by Grand Central Publishing/Hachette Book Group (09). Below the title - An untold Story of World War II, two Sister Ships and Extraordinary Heroism. Remarks by Melvin T. Smith, STC (SS) USN-RET: I have read a lot of books about World War II submarines and crew members' stories, but this one had me back on the USS Snapper (SS-185), on "Silent Run," with sweat running down my face. It is unbelievable!

WWII Submarine Veterans Recognition From: Carl Schmidt Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2009 11:57 PM Subject: WW II Submarine Veterans Recognition I received this E-mail from Pete Rathmell Base Commander USS Snook Base. Please go to www.boozman.house.gov and click on Honoring Submarine Veterans and watch the You Tube speech that Congressman Boozman made on HR 773. It passed the House and will become part of the Congressional Record. Kudos to the USS Snook Base. Thanks to everyone for all their support in making this possible. Melvin Tolbert Smith, STC (SS) USN-RET

USS Grenadier SS-210Please forward this to any one who may have knowledge of this flag. It was one of my late father's areas of interest. This was written by my sister. Our father was on this ship. ( Johnson, Charles E.) Thank You,Kim

From: Jeanna Smith To: hawkeye@beachlink.comSent: Sat, October 31, 2009 2:07:17 PMJohn,Thank you for your ongoing e-mails. As you know dad was very devoted tothe memory of the Grenadier USS 210. One of the issues he and Idiscussed was the picture I have attached. He often said that he wishedthat whom ever had possession of the American flag in this picture wouldhave it in their heart to loan or donate it to the Museum in Ga. Iunderstand there is a wall mural of this picture in the museum. He wasnot sure who had this flag last and was concerned that as the generationspassed that the significance of this piece of history would diminish. The history as I recall was that the flag was drawn on a white sheet withcolored pencils given to the POWs by the civilians during the liberation,someone correct me if I am wrong. I need your help in circulating thise-mail in hopes that someone will know the whereabouts of this archive.

I have attached the roster of the boat but unfortunately that is all Ihave to go on. Any help you can provide would be very beneficial, I knowyou have many contacts in the submarine league. I have also included thelink to the POW museum in case anyone is interested. Please include mye-mail address in your correspondence.I am still working on making my way through the DVDs you did of dad, itis hard and I can only watch so much at a time.The link to the museum is http://www.nps.gov/ande/contacts.htmSincerely,Jeanna Johnson SmithU.S.S. Grenadier (SS-210)Adkins, Ralph L.Albertsen, Norman A.Andrews, David J.Barker, Lesley L.Barrington, Clyde W.Clark, Lynn R.Courtney, Thomas R.Cox, Gordon C.Critchlow, John N.Cunningham, William M. J.*Doyle, CharlieEmbry, Jewell C.Erishman, Charles A.Evans, Rex R.Evans, Robert E.Fitzgerald, J. A.Fourre, Glen R.Fulton, Ben H.Garrison, Randolph J.*Guico, Justiniano G.Gunderson, John H.Harty, K. D.Herbert, Carlisle W.Hinkson, Richard J.Ingram, Joe G.Johnson, Charles E.Keefe, William H.Keysor, Riley H.Knutson, Joseph S.Landrum, James D.Leskovsky, JohnLeslie, Raymond G.*Linder, Charles F.Loftus, Irving C.McBeath, John J.McCoy, Charles H.McGowan, Dempsey E.McIntyre, Arthur G. EM1LT Minton, Joseph A.O¹Brion, Elwood A.Ouillette, Virgil A.Palmer, Robert W.Pianka, John K.Pierce, Miner B.Poss, Edgar L.Price, Joseph T.Quarterman, Carl O.Rae, Thomas J.Roberts, Warren E.Roskell, CharlesRupp, Albert J.Russell, Paul D.Rutkowski, Henry W.Sawatzke, Lyle L.Schwartzly, John F.Shaw, Lee C.Sherry, Harmon B.Shoemaker, Dean B.Simpson, John E.*Snyder, George W., Jr.Stauber, George F.Taylor, Orville A.Toulon, Alfred J., Jr.Trigg, Thomas J.Ver Valin, Charles H.Walden, John S.Westerfield, Charles W.Whiting, George H.Whitlock, Charles H.Wilson, Charles M.Wise, William E.Withrow, William C.Witzke, Bernard W.York, Robert F.Zucco, PeterZufelt, Fred QM3

Stephen (Steve) Petreshock, age 88, of Manitowoe, Wisconsin died on Monday evening, Oct. 26, 2009, at Aurora Medical Center of Manitowoe.

Mr. Petreshock was a national artist for "Polaris" magazine, the official publication for the US Submarine Veterans of WWII for 42 years and designed the submarine calendar for 18 years. His paintings and artwork are displayed in museums and private collections.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at the Jens Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 1122 S. Eighth St., Manitowoc. Rev. Dr. Matthew L. Sauer will officiate with entombment to follow at Calvary Mausoleum. Military services will be accorded by VFW Otto Oas Post No. 659. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at noon.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum or the Rahr-West Museum.

I took pictures of Mr. Petreshock when I was at the National Convention of World War II Veterans, September 09. I waited in line, but not long enough to speak with him. I so wanted one of his submarine paintings for the cover of my book. But, the editor didn't agree.

USS Sea Fox T-shirts: The shirts are available in black or blue, sizes large & x-large and with or without pockets. You can check them out by going to http://seafoxassoc.homestead.com/SK.html then click on the association patch and it will take you to the SK items. All the best. Geo.

Sub Float, S-36, Water S."Gus" Kraus & Book Signing:

Fred Minnick, author of "Camera Boy: An Army Journalist's War in Iraq," will host a book signing on Tuesday, November 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Border's Books, 3300 Glennstone, Springfield, MO.

The USS Wisconsin SSN-908 float is a 1/10 scale of the Skipjack. It was built in 50 days by 7 men. It cost $5,ooo to build. It is accessible underneath. They installed a battery, inventer, charger and Klaxon inside. It was finished November 6, 2008.

Walter S. Kraus Commander, USN (Ret) is 86 years-old and very involved with the WWII Submarine Organization. He is the last survivor of the S-36 and was a crew member of the USS Snapper SS-185 when Melvin T. Smith was aboard.

NEWS-02: National Conventions - Should they change? Submitted by: Pat Householder on 10/12/2009---------------------------------------------------------For the past several years there has been concerned 'chatter' about the rising costs of our Annual Conventions. Due to the size of our gatherings, it is very difficult to find locations that can handle our size convention that is not expensive.One proposal is to have a national convention every other year on the same schedule with the USSVI national election, rotating, if possible, each convention by region.The thinking is, this would allow subvet families to participate in other vacations on the off year, and could possibly save USSVI up to $10,000 in direct costs saved in the off year.Please visit the online poll at www.ussvi.org and express your opinion. Thanks, Patrick Householder Natl Commander

WWII Submarine Veterans: The Decommissioning Ceremony of the Diamond Chapter WW II Submarine Veterans took place Saturday, October 10, 2009 6:00 p.m. (!800 Hours) at the Clarion Hotel, Bentonville, Arkansas. We seen old friends and made new friends. It was a beautiful, but sad ceremony. So many to thank. In the days ahead I'll continue to add more information on the two day event. I am sorry, that all Arkansas WW II Submarine Veterans were unable to attend. We are sorry the weather kept us from attending the patch dedication at the military museum in Branson presented by Dick Jarenski and the USS Sterlet (SS-392) Association. http://www.usssterlet.com USS Sennet SS-408 is holding their reunion this week October 11-15, at Myrtle Beach, SC. Melvin T. Smith was a crew member of this boat.

WWII National Convention where I visited with four of the veterans who's stories were told in my book, "Submarine Stories of World War II," William Dreher USS Boarfish (SS-327). Marion Shinn USS Guavina (SS-362) Melvin T. Smith USS Snapper(SS-185) and Ervin O Schmidt USS Torsk (SS-423) Mr. Schmidt is a Pearl Harbor survivor of the USS California. I thank each of the veterans who took part in telling their story for my book. It has been an honor. Green Bay, Wisconsin 55th National Convention U.S. Submarine Veterans of WW II, Aug 30-Sept 5 2009. We spent two there before we traveled Highway 29 Westward toward Knapp. I visited family along the route.

We had a great time at the convention. The Wisconsin

subvets and everyone worked very hard to bring us

interesting events. I enjoyed the film on the discovery

of the USS Lagarto that was shared by Jamie Maclend;

one of the divers who was part of expedition. The submarine

was found 230 feet deep in the Gulf of Siam.

St. Marys Submarine Museum, St. Marys, Georgia requested ten copies of my

book for their gift shop. With added sales through the mail

and at the convention I sold the last of my books.

I have loved promoting the veterans and their stories.

USCGC SEA FOX: Commissioning Ceremonies for the USCGC Sea Fox (WPB 87374) were held on 18 Sep 09. Jim Mason (60-62), Lon Schmidt (55-56), Ralph Ruppert (44-45), Jerry Foss (69-70), and Pat Bellew (60-63) along with their guests Evelyn Ryan, Sharon Bellew, and JeanMarie Foss were present for the ceremonies. An article, along with photos, has been submitted to the American Submariner and material, with more specifics, will be sent shortly to Mary Ellen Burdick for the next Association newsletter. Of special note is the donation of the Sea Fox (SS402)'s ships bell by our boat's last Commanding Officer, CDR Walt Stammer. The bell arrived in time to be installed aboard the cutter and a very important part of the Sea Fox (SS402) history will once again return to sea! We have a web page about the cutter and you can view it at: http://seafoxss402.homestead.com/USCG.html There is a link at the bottom of the page that will take you to several photos of the ceremonies. Our association SK, Lon Schmidt, forwarded a Sea Fox (SS402) plaque and some cups to the C/O and crew of the cutter. And, Jim Mason presented the C/O, CWO3 Michael Lemay, with an Honorary Association Membership for he and his crew. Submitted by George Arnold

WWII SUBMARINE STORIES WANTED: Alex Buder, associate producer at Story House Productions, a television and film documentary company based out of Washington, DC., are in pre-production for a new TV documentary series of American Submarines in the Pacific Theater World War II and experiences of crew members to documentary on the USS Cole. Their website is http://www.storyhousepro.com/ Mr. Buder is requesting stories from WWII Submarine Veterans to be sent by e-mail or by regular mail to: Alex Buder Associate Producer Story House Productions 2233 Wisconsin Ave. NW Washington, DC 20007 202-464-7260 buder@storyhousepro.com

Branson, USS Sterlet SS - 392 Association http://www.usssterlet.com The displays honoring the submarines of WWII will be unveiled at the Veteran's Memorial Museum in Branson at 1400 hours 1250 W State St Hwy 76 Branson (417) 332-2300 by the USS STERLET SS392 Association - this will be the permanent home for the displays and should attract many veterans to Branson in years to come. All are invited to the unveiling and submarine veterans please wear your base vest. Dick Jarenski/Sue Rainey Commander & Treasure USS STERLET SS392 Association The USS Sterlet (SS392) Association will be holding their reunion in Branson October 7-11

USS Sennet SS-408 Reunion, October 11-15 at Landmark Resorts - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina http://www.sennet.org/ or USS Sennet Reunion c/o Ralph Luther, P.O. Box 864, Summerville, SC 29485-0864

S-28 memorial service was held in Wilmington, NC. They met on the fantail of the battleship NORTH CAROLINA. Later, held the tolling of the bells of the lost boats at a nearby waterfront memorial. Photos and information submitted by Chaplain Bill Whelan. The issue of the ALL CLEAR newsletter official journal of North Carolina Subvets is posted at http://ncsubvets.org/base.html Click on photos to enlarge.

Ervin Schmidt has a story in my book, Submarine Stories of World War II, and his wife June, has a story on page 80, When Our Mothers Went to War

Twin Lakes Base USSVI: Carl Schmidt, Central Region Director sent an email to wish the Twin Lakes Base USSVI, Mountain Home, Arkansas congratulations on their 5th year (August 30) as part of the USSVInc.

Photo by Mary Nida Smith - June 2009 Twin Lakes Base yearly picnic Front roll L-R: Melvin T. Smith (USS Snapper 185), Duane Goodlett (1c1 (SS) 1CC (SS), Larry Noker (USS Pampanita SS-383). Back roll L-R: Sorry, I don't know the first subvet's name. Loyal Huson (USS Tinosa SS-283), Charles (Chuck) Davis, Curtis Grant (USS Pintado SSN-672), Frank Kaye (USS Sea Devil SSN-604), Bob Hozapfel (USS Medregal SS-480), and Commander Wayne (Kirk) Smith (USS Benjamin SSBN 649).

Military Conferences: Please check the ones in an earlier blog below that are highlighted. 2009 Military Writers Society of America MWSA Conference October 9-10 at Orlando, Florida. http://www.militarywriters.com

Beware of comments listed below. Cash on Line - I didn't approve of this ad comment. It was placed on my blog without my knowledge. Mary

USS Dorado Memorial in Wichita (KS) Veterans Park Submitted by: Pat Householder on 7/28/2009 When visitors to Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday discovered a memorial knocked down, some immediately thought it was a case of vandalism. But on Monday, the story of what happened became more clear, and it appears the memorial was not intentionally damaged, according to Wichita police.They said it was an accident ...due to the condition of the aged and decayed grout that held the 1,000 pound memorial to it's concrete base. Two women who were in town for a church convention were taking pictures at the park Thursday, when one leaned against the 6-foot tall memorial and tipped it over, according to Wichita police.The memorial that was damaged last week pays tribute to the men who were lost aboard the USS Dorado on Oct. 12, 1943.Blake (Blake is project manager for Operation Ensign, a project of Veterans Memorial Park of Wichita Inc.) said that it is owned by the Dry Docked Dolphins, the Kansas chapter of the U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II. On Monday, he continued to try to contact members of the Kansas chapter to let them know about the damage. He estimated the damage at about $10,000.Blake said people who want to help with repairs may send donations to: Veterans Memorial Park of Wichita Inc.; P.O. Box 4754, Wichita, KS 67204. He said donations should be marked for: "Dry Docked Dolphins repair. "NOTE: USSVI Memorials Chair Ray Wewers is making contact with the USSVI Dorado Base to see how they can assist, and the SVWWII leadership has been advised of the problem.Go to the link for the story and a picture. http://www.kansas.com/196/story/907790.html

PRESUMED LOST-- The book is about 7 submarines that were lost in WWII and some of the crew were taken prisoner by the Japanese. It tells the story of the Submarines USS Perch - USS Grenadier- USS S-44-USS Sculpin- USS Tullibee and USS Tang. It is the true story of the the men who were captured, tortured and used as slave laborers by the Japanese. You can order by going to www.stephenlmoore.com. Steve Moore is the author. I, Robert Lents was a crew member of the USS Perch.

USS SNOOK BASE to host the closure ceremony for Arkansas Diamond Chapter Submarine Veterans World War II. Pete Rathmell USS Snook Base Commander has asked for all who are planning to attend the Diamond Chapter WWII closure ceremony to please send in their registration forms. The completed registration forms are needed to make the finalized ceremony and meal plans. Remember the W/E of October 9th and 10th is a Razorback football W/E. The USS Snook base has rooms blocked for this ceremony. These blocked rooms will soon be released back to the hotel. A POC message was recently sent by National Commander Pat Householder outlining the program planed for this ceremony. This will be the first time a WWII Chapter closure has been hosted by a USSVI Base. If you need more information or registration forms please contact Pete Rathmell USS Snook Base at cprsk@gmail.com

Navy – U.S. Submarine Veterans Schedule The U.S. Submarine Veterans of WWII will hold their 55th National Convention Monday, August 31- Saturday, September 5, 2009 at Green Bay, Wisconsin. To learn more call 262-679-4496 or Email diamond7@rocketmail.com Next year they will hold a joint convention with the USSVI in Ohio. The USSVI 2009 National Convention will be held 8-12 September, 2009 at the Town & Country Hotel and Convention Center in San Diego, Ca. Shipmates will be gathering from all over the world. For more information http://www.ussvisanddiego.org/Convention2009/index.htm The Convention is being hosted by the San Diego and Scamp Bases of USSVI. The USS Snook Base Pete Rathmell Base Commander of the United States Submarine Veterans, INC will host Arkansas Diamond Chapter World War II Submarine Veterans Annual meeting and Decommissioning Ceremony October 9-11, 2009 at the Clarion Hotel, Bentonville, Arkansas. For more information Email cprskr@gmail.com or phone 479-359-2689 or Terry Fallatt 479-986-9180 or Email tefallatt@aol.com Dick Jarenski and Sue Rainey produced, assembled and labeled six displays to honor the submarines of World War II. Jarenski is a member of the USSVI White Mountain Base and a life member of the U.S. Submarine Veterans. He is commander of the USS Sterlet (SS392) Association, which funded this project. The unveiling ceremony will be approx 1400 during their reunion in Branson October 7-11. Everyone is invited to attend the event. On October 8, an unveiling of six displays honoring all submarines and their crews that served during World War II will be held. It will be permanently housed in the Veteran’s Memorial Museum in Branson, Missouri. For more information 928-535-5405 or Email rjarenski@aol.com

USSVInc Holland Club: 1,391 members are United States Submarine Veterans of World War II. PRESUMED LOST by Stephen L. Moore is the story of 20 submarine Pow Survivors of World War II. One of the stories is of Pow Robert (Bob) Lents, a member of the Twin Lakes Submarine Base (USSVI Holland Club) of Mountain Home, Arkansas. For more information http://www.stephen1moore.com

USS CONNECTICUT (SSN 21) Mess Hall ProjectSubmitted by: Robert J. Cox on 7/13/2009---------------------------------------------------------The crew of the Seawolf Class submarine USS Connecticut (SSN 21) has been working on a project in the boats mess hall. They've named the seven mess tables after seven lost boats from World War II. They are looking for patches, battle flags, memorabilia, etc. for display in their mess hall. The list of wants also includes the original battle flag (or a replica) from the USS Triton(SS 201). If you know of any shipmates who served on those boats or other individuals who have access to this material please contact:John MansfieldWRD4 Commanderjohn@erasumner.com(253) 202-6433

How to Request Military Service Records or Prove Military ServiceSubmitted by: Pat Householder on 7/16/2009---------------------------------------------------------Several times recently I've been asked about this, so here it is again.Most veterans and their next-of-kin can obtain free copies of their DD Form 214 (Report of Separation) and other military and medical records several ways:Click on the link for this free service...http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/dd-214.html

How to Request Military Service Records or Prove Military ServiceSubmitted by: Pat Householder on 7/16/2009---------------------------------------------------------Several times recently I've been asked about this, so here it is again.Most veterans and their next-of-kin can obtain free copies of their DD Form 214 (Report of Separation) and other military and medical records several ways:Click on the link for this free service...http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/dd-214.html

Robalo Base (North Dakota) Reports...Submitted by: Pat Householder on 7/6/2009---------------------------------------------------------"To date we have sold over 250 USS NORTH DAKOTA Ball Caps of the nearly 450 I ordered. I expect we will have several airline tickets worth of money saved in our checking account by the end of this year.. Recall our goal is to send each USSVI-North Dakota member to the commissioning of USS NORTH DAKOTA (SSN-784) in 2012.Finally, we had a Mr. David Zier in Fargo on Wednesday, July 1st. He was an actual crewmember of the USS ROBALO when it was sunk in 1944 - he just happened to have been given a pass to remain in port the last patrol.We had a big event for him, and had the Mayor of Fargo proclaim Wednesday as Mr. David Zier day!! Mr Zier brought ALL FOUR of his children to the event we held - all were from either PA, DE, VA or NY.Well Done, Robalo Base!=========================================================

Subvettes, Ladies of US Submarine Veterans. I received my Lifetime membership card yesterday from Rita Kreul, SUBVETTES National President and I am still a member of the Wives of Submarine Veterans of WWII until it closes. I feel very proud to be part of both organizations supporting our men who have served and are still serving. To read how my book signing went, please go to my other blog- Life's Beautiful Path. Young men under 12 are very interested in my book.

Lebanon-Laclede County Library, Lebanon, Missouri: I will be there from 12-5 pm, July 10th with several authors at the Author's Day to promote, sell and sign my non-fiction book, Submarine Stories of World War II (For ages ten and up).

Author Tom Jacobs was the XO on the USS Sargo SSN583 when I was COB. He also was the Commanding Officer on the USS Seadragon SSN584. The book's back blurb makes a true statement "Don't pick his book up at bedtime if you need your sleep". It is indeed hard to put down once you start to read this book. Go to Tom's Web site where you can read the First Chapter of Sons of God and order the book. http://www.mymysterynovel.com/ Donald E. Cole RMCM(SS) Ret

Sea Cadet: United States Navel Sea Cadet Corps http://www.seawolfbase.org/ provided by Kermit Beaver USS Drum was the host of the film crew for the upcoming fictional submarine movie "USS Seaviper" last month. The crew filmed for 2 weeks straight at night after the Park had closed to visitors. Take a look at http://tinyurl.com/c2wtrp to read about the film and meet Tom Bowser and Lesley Waters, the caretakers of the Drum. If you want to read more about the "USS Seaviper" movie, take a look at http://www.ussseaviper.net for further details. Tom says that he and Lesley are currently finishing up the sandblasting and painting of the periscope shears and they hope to move back to working on the stern by the end of the week

Dolphins: Wear your Dolphins to Work Day http://www.wearyourdolphinstowork.com/

USS Batfish ss-310 needs your help. If you would like to own a piece of the old USS Batfish SS-310 Deck, (make a great gift!!), they will not last..., send your $9.00 check to: The Batfish Muskogee War Memorial Park PO Box 253 Muskogee, OK. 74402. Phone 918-682-6294. Each piece is about six inches in length. We are raising money to help paint the Boat! Your donation for this cause is appreciated.

USS Silversides & Comgressman Pete Hoekstra- From Don Morell, Michigan State Cmdr, US Submarine Veterans WW 11. I now have a firm date for the dedication for the new 16,000 square foot museum at the USS SILVERSIDES at Muskegon, Michigan.It will be on 27 June 2009 at 1300. The Hon. Congressman Pete Hoekstra will be the key note speaker.Anyone needing accommodations can get a special rate at the Red Roof Inn by mentioning Subvets, 150 Seaway Dr. (US 31 Bus Rte) PH # 231-733-4307.Any questions, call Don Morrell at 616-847-1793.

D-DAY June 6, 1944 http://www.army.mil/d-day United We Stand! Remember - don't ever forget the price that was paid for freedom.

U-505, U-2513 and U-3008 became the property of United States of America during World War II. Soon after the war Melvin Tolbert Smith, STC (SS) USN-RET was assigned TAD to check out the Sound Gear on all three. He rode each one for two days on Chesapeake Bay. They would go out in the morning and return in the afternoon. Melvin was station at the time at New London Navy Base. His son-in-law Lee surprise him while visiting the family in Naperville by taking on a trip to visit the Museum of Science and Industry. Melvin didn't know the U-505 was there. To his delight he was able to share with family the role he played in history.

We had a special day and a half at the USS Sea Fox Reunion at Branson. I wish it could have been longer. Good thing we did not. A tree limb weakened by the January ice storm came crushing down bushing the roof, yet it was still attached to the tree. If it was allow to come down on it own, the larger end would do damage to the roof. So I had to find a tree cutter fast. He came in three hours to remove it and another tree bending to the ground. It was very windy that day. Jim Mason & Evelyn Ryan from Port Orchard, Washington in the above picture wrote a review print in the front of my book, Submarine Stories of World War II for ages ten and up (Nov 07). It was very special to see and meet them at the reunion. George will soon have pictures and happenings up on the Sea Fox website. http://seafoxassoc.homestead.com/ This has been a busy month with military events to attend. May 11& 12 we went to Branson for the USS Sea Fox Reunion. It was picnic time with Fleet Reserve Association and the USSV Inc, Twin Lakes Base, dinner at the American League and the Memorial Day events. I am now trying to get out the Arkansas Submarine Veterans World War II Diamond Chapter newsletter done and mailed. Associate Commander Jim Stephens helped by submitting several printed pages and Commander Bob Wight for update information on the upcoming WWII Submarine National Convention. All the newsletters should be mailed by Tuesday. To learn more of the history of submarines, click on http://About.com/submarines (USSV Inc) Subvettes: President of the Ladies Aux, Rita Kruel is offering a special rate for a Life membership to all regular members of the Ladies of Submarine Veterans of II for $20.00 and the offer is good only until June 20th. I joined May 26, 2009. I have been doing so much multi-tasking, I feel I need a few quiet days at a B&B.

To all Military Men & Women

REMEMBER How can we forget

for it continues year after year.

USS Sea Fox(SS-402) Reunion May 10 through 15, at the Branson Settle Inn, Branson, Missouri. We have plans to spend a couple of days there. Sea Fox website http://www.seafoxss402.homestead.com

Hello Mary......I've just finished reading your book and want you to know that it brought me right back to those days of sailing aboard the Tinosa. They were great voyages, interrupted by occasional moments of dreadful fear, but overall cruises filled with special feelings. Those "special feelings" were inspired by the nation that was so very much together in our objectives and with a patriotism we rarely see anymore. Thanks again for the wonderful gift Mary and I'm very happy to have met you and Mel. Very sincerely, Loyal

SUBMARINE STORIES OF WORLD WAR II Compiled and written by Mary Nida Smith

Stories of nine teenagers who served on US Navy Submarines during the 1940s. Many had never been away from home when they ventured beneath the sea to an unknown world of silence to spy and torpedo enemy ships. It was a world that quickly changed naïve teenagers into men who took home memories of good and painful times. Submarine Stories of World War II was written to honor the men who have served and are serving today on submarines.

William Dreher USS Boarfish SS-327 Marion Shinn USS Guavina SS-362 James A. Davidson USS Guitarro SS-363 Wayne Goodenow USS Cat SS-399 Gail Diamond USS Scorpion SS-278 Joseph Blanchett USS Seal SS-183 Melvin Tolbert Smith USS Snapper SS-185 Billy Grieves USS Thresher SS-200 Ervin O. Schmidt USS Torsk SS-423 USS Saury SS-189 and the USS California BB-44

A poem by Irma Goodenow honoring her submarine husband of 59 years. Mary Nida Smith - Wives of U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II, Arkansas Diamond Chapter (Newsletter Editor), former Idaho member of the Spuds Chapter Twin Fall, Idaho, Associated member Twin Lakes Base USSVI, Military Writers Society of America, Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Missouri Writers Guild, and Ozarks Writers League. To order copies send $12.00 plus $2.00 Postage to: Mary Nida Smith 162 Stamford Drive Lakeview, AR 72642

Iowa Gold Star Military Museum Submitted by: Dennis Murphy on 4/21/2009---------------------------------------------------------The Iowa Base, The Iowa Chapter WWII Subvets, and the Placoderm Base are currently advising the Curators of The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum in Johnston, Iowa, as they plan a Submarine Exhibit in a new addition to be completed in late 2009.Our first suggestion, something indisputably submarine, was a Fleet Submarine Conning Tower, which could be installed as the new building is being built. Second would be a rotatable periscope, pushed through the roof, also to be installed during construction. As of April 1, we have been unable to locate either item. It may be necessary to lower our expectations for a centerpiece.The new exhibit will focus on the contributions and sacrifices made by Iowa's Submarine Veterans. The more significant the center piece, the more generous the Iowa contributions will be.We welcome information, advice, and offers of submarine items. Please contact, Dennis Murphy dmdmurph@mchsi.com or David Farran bream243@q.com.

Merchant Marines: I, being a women had never read or heard of the Merchant Marines until Joyce Larimore, a friend and member of the Fleet Reserve gave me a book about these brave men. The book: They Couldn't Have Won The War Without Us - Stories of the Merchant Marine in WWII...told by the men who sailed the ships. Edited by Pete Peterson. (This book can be purchased on http://www.amazon.com/) published in 1998 - Midwest Chapter Memorial Plaque, Dedicated May 22, 1995 Navy Pier, Chicago. It is a well written book, filled with stories of 20 men who served on these ships during WWII. Everything you ever wanted to know is in this book edited by one of the men who's story is told between the pages of "They Couldn't Have Won The War Without us." They received no pat on the back or honors. After reading this book, I salute each and everyone of you. - Thank You! To learn more go to http://www.mymerchantmarines.com/

USS Sea Fox Reunion May 10-15 at the Branson Settle Inn for more information go to their website http://www.seafoxss402.Homestead.com

NEWS-02: BATFISH needs a hand...Submitted by: Matt Albright on 4/10/2009---------------------------------------------------------Hello Submarine Veterans and friends:The USS Batfish SS-310 (located in Muskogee, OK) is seeking Donations to help pay for painting the boat. Please send your Tax Deductible Donation to: The Batfish Memorial Foundation18139 S 129th W Ave Sapulpa, OK 74066

The USS Batfish SS-310. Every year in May the Batfish Crew Members hold a Reunion (generally) on the 2nd Saturday at 10 am. At this Reunion is USSVI and WWII Submarine Veterans hold a Memorial Service which includes the Tolling of the Boats. Please consider this your Bases Official Invitation to attend this moving Ceremony. We hope you and your Base can attend and bring friends. You won't be disappointed. This year the Memorial Service at the Batfish will be held on Saturday May 16th, 2009 at 11 am at the Boat. We hope to see you there. Ken Recoy 620-305-9900 cell. USSVI Central Region - District One Commander.

The last mile of the way,

I rest on the old Gospel Ship.

A blessed, healthy and safe Easter.

(c) Photo by Mary Nida Smith

Subject: The DD Form 214/WGO 53 -- A Most Important Document!! The following article is reprinted from the Bay State Veteran Spring Issue of their newsletter written by Richard Levesque, Director, Chief Service Officer, Veterans Benefits Program, Mass. State Council, Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.The DD Form 214/WGO 53 -- A Most Important Document. He was an elderly World War II Veteran who, after the war, lived the American dream. The house, the two car garage, the kids and 2 and a half dogs behind a white picket fence.Time passed, the kids grew up and they grew old. The Veteran retired and that thing that happens to so many retirees in their older years happened to him – he got sick. At age eighty-seven he passed away leaving an elderly wife. This is where our story really begins……..The Veteran had told his wife and family many times that he had earned his final honors, flag draped casket, firing squad, and most importantly he wanted to be buried in the National Cemetery in Bourne. The one thing he didn’t do was to give someone in his family his military separation documentation; WGO 53 or as we affectionately call it, the DD 214. For your information, the DD 214 as we know it did not come into being until the Korean Conflict (wasn’t a war, remember? Tell my Dad that). The WWII Veterans were given the WGO 53 and it was a negative image (black & white) that carried all the Veterans information like a DD 214 does today. In many cases, on the reverse is the Honorable Discharge certificate. In this case, our Veteran never gave one to any one in his family, not even a copy. Although wounded and decorated, he never used the Veterans Administration (VA) for anything. So, when the final arrangements were being made, the wife told the funeral parlor that she wanted his final honors and that she also wanted to respect his wishes that he be buried in the National Cemetery. The funeral parlor asked for his separation documents. She didn’t have them. The family went back to the house and looked everywhere for these documents. Nothing. He did not have his papers anywhere in the house that they could find. My office was called and with the information we had we checked with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. There was no record of his service. We checked with the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis, Missouri. I called the “special number” we have and spoke with an individual who was apprised of the situation. After checking their records and the records at the National Archives, there was no record of this Veteran. They believed that his records were completely consumed in the Great Fire of 1973 at the NPRC and were totally lost. As we have said, there was no record of him with VA at all. The Veteran was laid to rest without his flag covering his casket; without his final honors and; without his plot at the National Cemetery. To this day no one has ever found any documentation that he served in the US Military. Proof would have been found at NPRC except for that fire in 1973. The Veteran has a brother and sister surviving him and they remember his service, but those statements are insufficient. In my own family we had a similar situation with my father-in-law who was a survivor of Omaha Beach. We never placed his Memorial Stone on his grave. At the time of his death, VA was not issuing stones to Veterans who had deceased at that time (1994). We finally applied for is stone. I well remember his WGO 53 but for the life of me we couldn't find it in the house. I applied to NPRC for a replacement certificate. We were advised that his records had also burned up in the Great Fire of 1973. But in my father-in-law’s case, there were a few documents that survived the fire and we were able to get a Certificate of Service from NPRC that satisfied VA and his stone was placed on his grave. We lucked out!The lesson: These are not the first situations where the records were misplaced, lost, or burned. And these were not and probably will not be the last time we have problems securing documentation of military service. The lesson is to please make copies of your WWI WGO 53, Honorable Discharge, or your DD 214. Don’t put it in a “safe place”. Give it to your spouse or children (or both). These documents are important in many ways. They prove your military service and open the doors to all your final honors. They are the key that gets you into the National Cemetery or even the State Veterans Cemeteries. Without proof of your service, you will not get in. Give them to someone. Don’t want to part with the original?? Make copies and give them to your children and your spouse (if living). When the time comes, someone will have that document to give over to the Funeral Home. And don’t procrastinate….do it right away. The Grim Reaper waits for no man. Richard Levesque, Chief Service Officer Veterans' Benefits Program, Massachusetts State Council, Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.

The latest on the USS Hartford SSN 768 collision http://thesubreport.blogspot.com

James A. Davidson, World War II served aboard the USS Guitarro (SS-364). Mr. Davidson is one of the nine veterans who shared their stories with me. I published them in my book, Submarine Stories of World War II. It was an honor to have published their stories. I wish I could hear from each one and how they are doing or from someone who served with them.

Don't ever forget to honor our veterans.

During World War II Roy Moody (age 91), sailed aboard the USS Narwhal (SS-167) and the USS Whale (SS-239). He is a member of the U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II, Arkansas Diamond Chapter. March 2009 he was inducted into the United States Submarine Veterans Holland Club by Kirk Smith, Commander of the Twin Lakes Base, Mountain Home, Arkansas. Congratulations and good health!

This is Astounding!!!! Try itOne of the most interesting sites I have ever seen. Just put your mouse on a city anywhere in the world and the newspaper headlines pop up. Double click and the page gets larger. Then you can either read the pdf version or click through to the paper itself in the upper right corner.http://www.newseum.org/todaysfrontpages/flash/ Also, if you look at the European papers, the far left side of Germany will pop up as The Stars & Stripes (European edition, of course). AND, this site changes everyday with the publication of new editions of the paper. Enjoy!

I am interested in both specific Vietnam War memorials as well as multi-war or veterans memorials that include any inscription, dedication, or other tribute to Vietnam veterans. General Veterans memorials and other war memorials that do not include Vietnam are not included within scope of this inquiry. The attached file, Arkansas.xls, is the list of Arkansas memorials that I have some information on. If you have information on these memorials or know of any additional Vietnam War related memorials in your area, I would appreciate any information about the memorial and it's location you could provide. If there is anyone you think may be able to provide information I would appreciate your forwarding this request. At present there is no complete reference book for Vietnam War memorials. My intent is to correct this in hopes once it is available many others will visit these memorials. Regards, L. Nick Hansen 1630 Susan Road Lake Ozark, MO 65049 nick.hansen@US.ARMY.MIL

NEWS-04: SUBMARINE WAR PATROL REPORTSSubmitted by: Pat Householder on 2/19/2009--------------------------------------------------------- At the end of each war patrol of WW II, submarine commanders created a report on the patrol. These reports were used as the raw material to inform intelligence, improve tactics, evaluate commanders, etc.During WW II, over 1,550 patrol reports containing approximately 63,000 pages were generated. During the 1970s these were photographed and reproduced on microfilm to make them more easily accessible and easily reproduced (approx. 250 rolls).During 2008 a copy of this microfilm was scanned into digital format (110 GB), and in 2009 it was made available online here (14 GB). These war patrol reports were written during a deadly, bitterly fought war. Please note that there may be some references to enemy forces that may be offensive in today's context.BRAVO ZULU to John Clear and Dan Martini who did all the work on getting these reports copied by a commercial outfit off of microfiche from theUndersea Museum in Keyport, Washington where John works part time. Dan also lives in Washington but in the Tri-City area.This site contains all WWII patrol reports and it's free!http://hnsa.org/doc/subreports.htm

NEWS-02: TROUT BASE, Arriving!Submitted by: Pat Householder NC on 2/12/2009---------------------------------------------------------Congratulations to David 'Chili' Chilcott, BC of the newly chartered TROUT BASE in Twin Falls, ID. We all wish David and his crew 'Fair Winds and following Seas.'BZ as well to Chuck Riley, District Commander, in seeing that the necessary steps were completed in this new Base forming evolution.The base is off to a good start, with a solid cadre of 10 members and a USSVI base website as well.You can wish "Chili" well with an email to chiliicss@yahoo.com.Their base website is attached.http://www.ussvi.org/base/Trout.asp Twin was our home for nine years. We were members of "The Idaho Spud Chapter, WWII." I was the president of the Magic Valley Writers involved with writing for newspapers and magazines, plus I supplied illustrations for the local newsletter and the state newsletter, "The Idaho Writers League."

Branson Submarine Memorial Patch Project:

I am pleased to report a truly remarkable progess report. As of today and thanks to the contributions and donations of so many on sending us patches we have now completed our task (if all those listed as coming are received). I want to thank everyone for their response, patches, support it has been humbling to have this herculean task finished so quickly.. The submarine family and friends have been awesome and shown a remarkable outpouring for their project the Branson Museum honor to the submarines of WWII. Now Sue and I have the task of doing the layouts of five displays (the lost boat one has been completed and have sent a picture below of it). Then the labeliing of each, affixing to the PVC board, installing in our shadow box, and readying them for shipment to Branson. We are now a month or so ahead of schedule and know that we will have them in Branson for unveiling on October 8 2009 at the Sterlet Association Reunion Oct 7-11. Thank you so much everyone and Mr Hoppe owner Veteran's Museum in Branson, his Geneal Manager June Tillis, Debbie Chesnakov of the Branson Chamber of Commerce, BC Patch Co.(Barry Commons), St. Mary's Museum (John Crouse) and so many others. We will have a plaque in the display of all donors or those named by donors to honor them when viewers see the display. Dick Jarenski/Sue Rainey USS STERLET SS392 Association Branson Submarine Memorial Patch Project Coordinators Submitted by Kirk Smith 2-17-2009

NEWS-10: AIMM/USSVCF Library comes through!Submitted by: Pat Householder on 2/9/2009---------------------------------------------------------When the Navy Needs Something Historical, Who do they Call?No, They Don't Call Ghostbusters! They Call AIMM! (Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum: USS Razorback)Recently, the PAO of a West Coast Submarine Group contacted AIMM with a request.They needed a copy of an article published over 15 years ago in the Submarine Review, which is published by the Naval Submarine League in Washington, DC.Thanks to the efforts of Ron Martini of the USSVI and the work of the AIMM staff, the AIMM / USSVI Library is one of the few places in the world with a complete set of back issues of Submarine Review, and the AIMM website is the only place on the Internet with a complete index of the articles in all the issues.They were able to locate the article, scan it as a PDF file, and sent it off via e-mail the same morning that the request came in.Click the link for more info...http://aimm.museum/library.asp

... AETN'S is still accepting applications from World War II Veterans who wish to tell their stories and have them preserved for posterity. If you're interested (and I hope you will ALL consider it!), you can read more about it here: http://www.intheirwords.org/the_project/how_to_get_involved.A list of sample questions and an interview application form are attached (Adobe Reader required). You can also apply online, at http://www.intheirwords.org/the_project/how_to_get_involved/interview_application. Submitted by Suzan Kaye

The ice nightmare of January 2009: My husband a WWII Submarine Veteran said the sounds reminded him of another time. I will try to recount last week's storm from a World War II Submarine as the crew heard signs of an enemy approaching. They dove 350 feet where they hunkered down. We sat silently waiting for the next popping sounds of a near hit. First we could hear the groans and crackling of the torpedoes (ice coated tree limbs or trees breaking) approaching us. We sat silent, holding our breath waiting for the deadly thump. A little to the left, a little to the right, would it hit us straight on or it drop with a loud crush to the ground below. I watched the ceiling waiting for some of the louder cracking and swooshing sounds to hit its target. Several appeared to hit and bounce off, except for two. One pierced a small hole in the After Torpedo Room (our bedroom) and another came through the Officers Quarters, (a glass window on the front porch). A couple of days later when the world outside went silent we surfaced to check on the damage. Damage surrounded us. The sun came out and so did another enemy loaded down with bullets (large pieces of ice) coming from all directions where we had to duck and run for shelter. That remained for two days before it passed. We again examining the damage. We have reached a safe harbor where we are now busy on work detail to restore our world, and hope to sail again in peaceful and safe times.

January 27th USSVI Twin Lakes Base, Mountain Home, Arkansas will hold their meeting and lunch at 11 am-1pm at the Elks Lodge on Highway 52 East. All 80 newsletters (10 pages) that I just finished will be in the mail Monday for the Arkansas Submarine Veterans of World War II - Diamond Chapter.

This Day in Naval History January 17, 1955First Nuclear-Powered Submarine Gets Underway“Underway on Nuclear Power!” – On this day in 1955, the first nuclear-powered submarine, USS Nautilus (SSN-571), got underway for the first time. With these words, Nautilus cast off her lines, steamed out of New London and into history! See the classic newsreel that showed off her new capabilities to the U.S. public in cinemas nationwide. See the birth of nuclear submarines, here on NavyTV.

Here is another place to get patches, and at a good price. The museum email address is: submus@tds.net This is a great offer from John at the St.Mary's Museum and John wanted me to share it with you. George Scheer CS1(SS) was a curator there for many years (went on EP last year) -- Any support you can give them would be appreciated by the Museum. Ski

U-Boat History – Sharkhunters International, Inc http://www.sharkhunters.com publishes the monthly KTB Magazine that is filled with history and stories of WWII veterans of the US Navy, USSR, Royal Navy, IJN and other nations using submarines. There is no propaganda. To learn more check out their website, the Official Worldwide publication of U-Boat History. Information provided by Harry Cooper at sharkhunters@earthlink.net Melvin Tolbert Smith, STC (SS) USN-RET has been reading non-fiction U-Boat History books. His most interesting one was The Admiral’s Wolf Pack by Jean Noll. He has been very fortunate to find several non-fiction submarine history books at the county library book sales. He found the U-Boats’ interesting as he was the top Sonarman 1st Class during World II. He was assigned aboard the U-505 (displayed at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago), U-2513 and the U-3008 to check out their Sonar after WWII. His story while serving aboard the USS Snapper (SS-185) is in Submarine Stories of World War II by Mary Nida Smith. During his Navy career he was also was a member of the historical HS-7 Anti-Submarine Squadron for about five years earning his “WINGS.”

Submarine Stories of World War II by Mary Nida Smith This 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 submariners 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. To order one or more send $12.00 each, plus $2.00 each for postage to Mary Nida Smith 162 Stamford Drive, Lakeview, AR 72642

NEWS-03: Russian Sub Headed For Scrap YardSubmitted by: Pat Householder on 12/29/2008---------------------------------------------------------PROVIDENCE RI - A submerged submarine is seldom cause for alarm - unless it's a floating museum, painstakingly preserved by history buffs and educators.When the Juliett 484 started sinking in the Spring of 2007 after a storm blew through the Providence River, many feared the Russian Cold War Relic would be lost for good.Those fears may now be realized.The military was able to raise the sub in July, but the damage had been done. Now, members of the non-profit group that operated the former museum believe there are very few options left."The cost of rehab is prohibitive, at least to us," said Russian Sub Museum president Frank Lennon.Museum leaders welcome any outside organization that could save the sub from the scrap yard.While the museum was open, it offered an intriguing glimpse of the cold war era, says Lennon.By the end of January, Rhode Island Metals Recycling will move the vessel down river and dismantle it for scrap if someone or some organization doesn't come forward to buy the sub intact.Reported By Kelley McGee, Turnto10.com NBC News, December 28, 2008Office=========================================================

WWII ship, small boat united by Hurricane Ike Associated Press GALVESTON -- An unnamed 25-foot boat displaced by Hurricane Ike is now pinned under a World War II-era destroyer on Pelican Island, complicating efforts to return the popular tourist attraction to its berth. The USS Stewart, one of only three remaining U.S. Navy destroyers built during World War II, was moved out of its resting place at Seawolf Park after Ike made landfall Sept. 13. When floodwaters subsided, members of the Cavalla Historical Foundation who maintain the Stewart discovered another boat wedged underneath it. Foundation curator John McMichael said the boat has a green hull, an 11-foot stern and bumpers hanging over its side, but work crews have been unable to find a name or any other identifying markings. On Tuesday, Galveston's Park Board of Trustees, which manages Seawolf Park and partners with the foundation to keep the Stewart open to the public, will hire a company to separate the boats. The Cavalla, a World War II submarine, is also permanently berthed at the park on Pelican Island and was only slightly moved by Ike. Ernie Connor, a member of both the park board and the historical foundation, said that once crews finish righting the Stewart, the foundation will build a new gangplank to the Cavalla and open the hatch again for tours. The Stewart was added to the National Register of Historic Places last year. The ship commenced North Atlantic convoy operations in 1944 and made 30 crossings. It was decommissioned in January 1947. Local officials hope the Federal Emergency Management Agency will help pay to right the Stewart and make repairs to the rest of the display around the ship. http://www.theeagle.com/PrintFriendly/WWII-ship--small-boatunited-by-Hurricane-Ike Submitted by Carl Schmidt