Posted April 26, 2012

CAPT WALTER B. HUBBELL, USN (Ret)

WALTER B. HUBBELL Captain, USN (Ret) Following a courageous battle to recover from a tragic fall last year, Walter was compassionately granted eternal peace April 13, 2012. Walter departed this life at home, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Marilyn Marlese Hubbell. A hero and inspiration to his surviving children, John Hubbell (Nancy), Judy Henry (Greg) and Anna Koropchak (Philip). His loving grandchildren, Jack, Grace, Nick, Maddie and Kayla. His sisters Mary Petersen of Wichita, KS, Lucy Berry of Tulsa, OK and brother John Hubbell of Kent. OH. He is preceded in death by his son, David Lee Hubbell, parents Clarence and Nancy Hubbell, brothers Paul, Clarence, Joe and sister Jessie Scaggs.

Walter was born February 18, 1929 in Wagoner County, Oklahoma. He enlisted in the Navy July 11, 1946. He advanced to signal man, third class, on the Kearsarge (CV33) before entering the United States Naval Academy, graduating in 1953. As a Midshipman, Walter earned the honor of All American playing defense for the 1953 USNA Lacrosse team. He served on the USS Logan (APA 196) and the submarines USS Sea Leopard (SS 483), USS Barbero (SSG 317), USS Abraham Lincoln (SSBN 602), USS Sailfish (SS 572) and commanded USS Corporal (SS 346). Walter also served as Director of Tactics, at Submarine School and graduated from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces before serving as Chief Staff Officer on Submarine Squadron 14 in Holy Loch, Scotland. He served in J5 Office of Joint Chiefs of Staff before retiring in November 1976.

After retiring, Walter attended George Mason University, in Fairfax, VA, earning a degree in nursing, becoming a Registered Nurse. He worked for Arlington Hospital (VHC) and Alexandria Hospital (INOVA) for fifteen years. He delighted in playing softball with the Northern Virginia Senior Softball Association until he was 75 years of age.

A memorial service in Walter's honor will be held at 11 a.m., May 5, 2012 at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22308. A burial with full military honors will be held for Captain Hubbell at Arlington National Cemetery (date not yet confirmed). In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully request donations in Walter's memory be made to Capital Caring Hospice on line www.capitalcaring.org or mailed to Capital Caring, 2900 Telestar Ct., Falls Church, VA 22042. On line condolences may be left at www.funeralchoices.com

Posted April 23, 2012

HMCM (SS) WILLIAM R. ("DOC") CHARETTE, USN (Ret)

LAKE WALES, FL - William "Doc" Charette, 79, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away on Sunday, March 18, 2012 due to complications of surgery.

He was born and raised in Ludington, Michigan. Master Chief Charette served at the Naval Hospital in Charleston; SC; Fleet Marine Force, 1st Marine Division, Korea; USS Quillback (SS424); USS Triton (SSN586), Fleet Ballistic Missile Training Center, Charleston, SC; USS Daniel Webster (SSBN626); Naval Hospital, Orlando, FL; USS Simon Bolivar (SSBN646); and at the Recruit Dispensary, Orlando, FL. He retired from the Navy on April 1, 1977.

While serving as a Navy Corpsman with the Marines in Korea in March of 1953, he was nominated for the Congressional Medal of Honor. He was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on January 12, 1954. (Citation below)

In May of 1958, while on board the USS Canberra (CAG2), he made the final selection on the World War II Unknown Soldier, now buried in Arlington National Cemetery. On April 30, 1999, the Charette Health Care Center in Portsmouth, VA was dedicated in his honor. It is recognized as the flagship hospital for the East Coast. He is a member of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, the Korean War Veterans Association, William R. Charette Chapter 158, Elks Lodge 1974, V.F.W. Lodge in Lake Wales, FL, USS Sea Peachers Association, Fleet Reserve Association in Charleston, SC, Florida Chief Petty Officer Association and many other charitable organizations.

He is preceded in death by his son, William "Billy" Charette. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Louise Fraiser Charette; children, Margaret A. Henderson, Kathryn M. Donovan, Laura L. Bennett and Michael R. Charette; beloved sister, Margaret "Peggy" Ezdebski; brothers-in-law, Bill and Stewart Fraiser; and five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services were held Thursday, March 22, 2012 at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. For those who wish, donations may be made to The Medal of Honor Museum at Patriots Point (Post Office Box 309, Mount Pleasant, SC 19465). Condolences may be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

William R. Charette

Rank and Organization: Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy Medical Corpsman serving with a Marine rifle company

Place and Date: Korea, 27 March 1953

Entered service at: Ludington, Michigan

Birth: Ludington, Michigan

Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces during the early morning hours. Participating in a fierce encounter with a cleverly concealed and well-entrenched enemy force occupying positions on a vital and bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, HC3c. Charette repeatedly and unhesitatingly moved about through a murderous barrage of hostile small-arms and mortar fire to render assistance to his wounded comrades. When an enemy grenade landed within a few feet of a marine he was attending, he immediately threw himself upon the stricken man and absorbed the entire concussion of the deadly missile with his body. Although sustaining painful facial wounds, and undergoing shock from the intensity of the blast which ripped the helmet and medical aid kit from his person, HC3c. Charette resourcefully improvised emergency bandages by tearing off part of his clothing, and gallantly continued to administer medical aid to the wounded in his own unit and to those in adjacent platoon areas as well. Observing a seriously wounded comrade whose armored vest had been torn from his body by the blast from an exploding shell, he selflessly removed his own battle vest and placed it upon the helpless man although fully aware of the added jeopardy to himself. Moving to the side of another casualty who was suffering excruciating pain from a serious leg wound, HC3c. Charette stood upright in the trench line and exposed himself to a deadly hail of enemy fire in order to lend more effective aid to the victim and to alleviate his anguish while being removed to a position of safety. By his indomitable courage and inspiring efforts in behalf of his wounded comrades, HC3c. Charette was directly responsible for saving many lives. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Posted March 22, 2012

VADM Shannon D. Cramer, Jr., USN (Ret)

Vice Admiral Shannon D. Cramer,Jr., formerly of Clemson, SC, passed away at his home in Washington, DC, surrounded by family on February 15, 2012. He was born on September 18, 1921 in Washington, DC and attended Central High School in Washington, DC where he excelled at football, was named to the National Honor Society and was the President of his graduating class of 1939. He skipped one year in high school and attended Admiral Farragut Academy in Pine Beach, New Jersey to prepare for his entrance to the United States Naval Academy and graduated early, after only two years and nine months, on June 9, 1943. and was commissioned an Ensign.

Admiral Cramer served aboard the USS Laub (DD613), the USS Furse (DDR882), the USS Cochino (SS345), the USS Halfbeak (SS352), the USS Cobbler (SS344) and the USS Sirago. He commanded the USS Swordfish (SSN579), the Gold Crew of the USS Patrick Henry (SSBN599), Submarine Division 102, and Submarine Squadron 15. Admiral Cramer's other assignments included the Staff of Commander Destroyer Squadron 6; aide to the Executive Officer of the Submarine Base, head of the Reserve Training and Ordinance Departments; submarine advisor to the Chief of Naval Reactors Office, Atomic Energy Commission; head of the Material and Submarine Propulsion Sections, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations; deputy director of Operations in the National Military Command Systems, J-3, Joint Chiefs of Staff; and military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs).

Admiral Cramer became Commander, Submarine Flotilla 6 in May 1970, and in August 1972, he reported as deputy director (strategic) of J-5, the Joint Staff, Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. From August to September 1974, he was deputy director for Plans, Defense Intelligence Agency. Admiral Cramer consolidated and streamlined production elements of the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA). He directed the efficiencies to the growing demands of the services and commands for geographic information. He retired in 1977.

Following retirement, Admiral Cramer served as the Department of Defense/Joint Chief of Staff representative to the United Nations Law of the Sea Conference from 1978 to 1981. He received the DoD Outstanding Award for Public Service for this assignment. He was a founder and the first President of the Naval Submarine League. His tenure in that role was from 1981 to 1989. Vice Admiral Cramer was recognized for his outstanding contribution as director of DMA and was inducted into the National Imagery and Mapping Agency Hall of Fame in 2003. Admiral Cramer's decorations and awards include the Legion of Merit with four gold stars and other service medals.

Admiral Cramer was a member of Eternal Shepherd Lutheran Church in Clemson, S.C. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Hugh, spouses Elizabeth (Betts) Stewart Cramer and Marie Ploetz Cramer and son Shannon D. Cramer III. Left to honor Shannon and remember his love are brother Calvin Cramer (Sandra) and children John Cramer (Beverly), Beth Churchya (Dave), Susan Algeo (Michael), Mary Cramer Wagner, Lawrence Ploetz (Denise), Frederick Ploetz (Sandra), Joanne Biery (Tom), Janet Davis (Don), Judi Petersen (Mark) and John Ploetz (Carol) as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being made for a memorial and interment at the Arlington National Cemetery. Those who would like to contribute in his memory, may do so by making donations to: Naval Academy, USNAF, Gift Processing, 291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402; Eternal Shepherd Lutheran Church, 220 Carson Road, Seneca, SC 29678 or Capital Caring Hospice, 50 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001.

Posted March 18, 2012

Chief Warrant Officer George Hugh Smith, USN (Ret)

Navy veteran of World War II and Korean War; Pearl Harbor survivor.

George Hugh Smith, a proud and honorable man, passed away on March 15, 2012, surrounded by family and dear friends. He was born February 11, 1917, and was a retired Chief Warrant Officer in the US Navy. Mr. Smith was originally from Henderson County, Illinois.

He was a Veteran of both WWII and the Korean War and was a Pearl Harbor Survivor. He made eight war patrols in the Pacific Theater on board a submarine during WWII. During the Korean War, while serving on board the submarine USS Redfish, he received an appointment to Warrant Officer. His duties then consisted of Engineering Officer on board a submarine rescue ship. He spent two years at the Mare Island California Naval Shipyard as a Machinery Repair Officer on board the submarine tender USS Sperry AS-12. His next assignment was a tour of duty at the Naval Air Engineering Center in Philadelphia, PA. His next assignment was a Division Officer on the USS Spiegle Grove LSD-32. A short time later, due to an injury, he was admitted to the Philadelphia Naval Hospital, from which he retired from the Navy in 1962. After leaving active duty in the Navy, Mr. Smith worked for the Naval Air Engineering Center until final retirement. During his military career, he received a number of medals and decorations, including the Navy Good Conduct Medal, the Bronze Star, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation and the Pearl Harbor Survivor Medallion.

Mr. Smith was a member of numerous fraternal organizations and clubs, Sons of the American Revolution, American Battleship Association, Submarine Veterans of WWII, Military Officers Association of America, Masonic Lodge, VFW, American Legion, Navy League, The National Rifle Association, and the United States Submarine League. Mr. Smith was a graduate of the Brookhaven Citizen Police Academy for 13 years with perfect attendance. Never forgetting his quote "Farmer Logic" he always made time for gardening, skilled carpentry, family and friends.

Mr. Smith was predeceased by his wife, Shirley in 1993, and his son William Hugh, in 1952. Survivors: 2 loving and devoted daughters: Patty Stillwell of Media, Debbie Gallagher of Naples, FL; 2 loving grandchildren: Becky Stillwell of Morgantown, WV, and Joshua Gallagher, of Aston, PA; Brother: Herb Smith of Burlington, IA.

Funeral Service: Wednesday 12:00 Noon, at Minshall Shropshire-Bleyler Funeral Home, Middletown (Rte#352) & Knowlton Roads, Middletown Twp., Media, PA.

Visitation: Wednesday after 10:00 am at the funeral home. Interment: Edgewood Memorial Park, Glen Mills, PA.

Memorial Contributions: Submarine Veterans of WWII Delaware Valley Association in the name of George Smith Memorial, Att: Michael Duffy 223 Ripka Street Philadelphia, PA 19127.

Published in Daily Times on March 18, 2012

Posted March 9, 2012

CAPT Reuben Farrior Woodall, USN (Ret)

Captain Reuben Farrior Woodall, U. S. Navy (Retired) left this world on March 4, 2012 just as he entered it, as a Southern gentleman. He was born in Springville, Ala., on November 9, 1921, son of the late Reuben Russell and Irene Bell Woodall. He was home-schooled at an early age, attended local schools, and graduated in 1938 from The Baylor School, Chattanooga, Tenn. at age 16. He attended the Marion Institute in Alabama for one year, and then entered the United States Naval Academy in 1939, graduating in June 1942 with the wartime class of 1943.

CAPT Woodall served on USS TARPON (SS-175) and USS POGY (SS-266) in the Western Pacific during World War II, completing eight war patrols. For his wartime service, he was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star with "V", and the Navy Commendation Medal with "V" with gold star for a second award. Following the war, he served on a number of other submarines, finally serving as the commissioning Executive Officer on the new USS WAHOO (SS-565). His commands at sea included USS TANG (SS-563), USS ROBERT E LEE (SSBN-601) (Blue), USS PLYMOUTH ROCK (LSD-29), and Commander, Submarine Squadron FOURTEEN.

His shore assignments included Marine Engineering instructor at the Naval Academy; service in the Office of the Chief of Naval Personnel (Pers A / Policy); Officer in Charge, U.S. Naval Submarine School; attendance at the National War College, where he earned a Master's Degree in International Relations from The George Washington University; and, Chief of Staff to Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. After his naval retirement in September 1969, he made his home in Annapolis, MD.

For his second career, CAPT Woodall served on the principal staff of Johns Hopkins University, Applied Physics Laboratory until March 1986, supporting the SSBN Security Program. He enjoyed sailing, golf, and working in his many gardens, especially his rose bushes.

CAPT Woodall was preceded in death by his first wife of 40 years, Margaret Ann "Peggy" Johnston Woodall in 1983. He is survived by his wife, Eola "Terry" Johnson Woodall, whom he married in December of 1985, and children Stephen R. and Nancy Woodall of Fairfax Station, VA; Jonathan H. and Lina Woodall of Oakton, VA; Ann F. Woodall of Arnold, MD; David M. Woodall of Smryna, TN; Terry and L. Robert Barnes of Fairfax, VA; Marty and Dr. Andy Yeager of Tucson, AZ; and, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Funeral and burial arrangements are private as requested by the family.

Posted March 6, 2012

RDML Thomas A. Meinicke, USN (Retired)

In Memory of Rear Admiral Thomas A. Meinicke, March 1

The Navy and the nation lost a great servant on Thursday, March 1, Rear Admiral Thomas A. Meinicke. A 1960 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, he served his nation as a submariner throughout the Cold War, a conflict that was brought to a close in large part by the efforts of the "Silent Service" led by men like the Admiral. During his stellar 32-year Navy career, he served onboard both fast attack and fleet ballistic missile submarines, commanding USS Flying Fish (SSN 673), Submarine Squadron Eight, and Submarine Groups Six and Ten. Anyone who ever called him shipmate would tell you he was an outstanding Naval Officer, but he was so much more than that. He continued to work in nuclear power after leaving the Navy, he was a good Episcopalian and member of St. Aidan's in Virginia Beach, but most importantly to him, he was a man whose love for his family knew no bounds. Despite the hardships a Navy career causes a family, he and his loving wife Alice, who he always called his "friend" and "buddy," raised three fantastic daughters and enjoyed a wonderful family life. Alice and the girls were at his side when he finished his earthly pilgrimage.

Published in U.S. Undersea Warfare News on March 5, 2012

Posted March 2, 2012

CAPT Charles Edmund Armitage, USN (Retired)

Charles "Chuck" Armitage died of brain cancer on 27 February 2012 in Aiken, South Carolina. He was 66 years old.

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chuck was raised in Rome, New York. He graduated from the University of Maine in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering and received a Commission into the United States Navy upon graduation.

Chuck served aboard five submarines in various positions before commanding USS STURGEON (SSN 637) from May 1982 until December 1986. Following command of STURGEON, Chuck was assigned various shore positions including Deputy Commander of Submarine Squadron Eleven, Assistant Chief of Staff for Weapons and Combat Systems at Submarine Group Five and Director of the Arctic Submarine Laboratory at the Naval Ocean Systems Center. His Naval career concluded following major command of USS TENNESSEE (SSBN 734) (BLUE) from September 1991 until his retirement in June 1993.

Upon retirement from the Navy, Chuck began work for Savannah River Company, where he was named Executive of the Year by the National Management Association, Central Savannah River Area, in 2000, and awarded the Department of Energy Project of the Year in 2002 for his Uranium Blend Down Project in H-Canyon at the Savannah River Site. Later he moved to Los Alamos National Laboratory, serving as Facility Operations Director, where he led operations and maintenance at the Plutonium Facility (TA-55), the nation's only plutonium production site. Next, he directed environmental restoration projects at Brookhaven National Laboratory for Washington Safety Management Solutions. Chuck's final position was with Babcock & Wilcox Conversion Services, where he served as Chief Engineer for the Uranium Hexafluoride (DUF6) Conversion Project, and as the design authority for both the Portsmouth, Ohio and Paducah, Kentucky plants.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, the former Barbara I. Johnson of Norfolk, Virginia; daughter Amy Armitage Zettler and son-in-law CDR Gregory Zettler; son Matthew Armitage; mother Dorothy Armitage Ricker; and sister Mary Lee Armitage Brown.

Posted January 26, 2012

RDML Scott L. Sears, USN (Retired)

RDML, USN (Ret) Scott L. Sears, passed away peacefully at his home in Warrensville on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011, after a long and courageous battle with Multiple Systems Atrophy.

Rear Admiral Sears attended the U.S. Naval Academy and graduated with distinction in 1966 with bachelor of science degrees in physics and economics. He completed Naval Submarine School in 1966 in Groton and subsequently served aboard the USS Barbel as supply officer and USS Gudgeon as communicator. Both submarines were home-ported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. From 1970 to 1971, he attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as a Burke Scholar and graduated with a master of science degree in electrical engineering as well as a professional engineering degree in electrical engineering. After attending Naval Nuclear Power School in Bainbridge, Md., he served aboard the USS Spadefish as the weapons officer and the USS Flying Fish as the navigator in Norfolk, Va. Aboard the USS Henry L. Stimson in Charleston, S.C., he served as executive officer. From 1980 to 1982, he led the Plans, Programs and Advanced Systems Section on the Chief of Naval Operations staff at the Pentagon. From 1983 to 1986, he commanded USS Albuquerque, home-ported in Groton, after which he became deputy commander for Training and Operations of Submarine Squadron Seventeen at Sub Base Bangor, Wash. He returned to the Chief of Naval Operations staff at the Pentagon in 1989 and oversaw the Tactical Weapons Branch. In 1989, he was assigned to Naval Sea Systems Command Headquarters as program manager for the development of the combat system for the next-generation attack submarine, Seawolf. He was selected to flag rank as an acquisition professional in January 1991. From 1992 until his retirement in 1995, he was commander, Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Newport, R.I. Admiral Sears was also a graduate of Duke University's School of Business, advanced management program and the national defense university capstone program. Personal awards include two Legion of Merits, three Meritorious Service Medals, two Navy Commendation Medals and two Navy Achievement Medals.

In 1995 upon completion of his tour as commander of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, he retired from the Navy. Following employment at AT&T, General Dynamics, and Raytheon, he retired to Ashe County, N.C. Wanting to serve the community where he had chosen to retire, Rear Admiral Sears was active on the county and regional library boards, served as a member of the Blue Ridge Electric Membership Advisory Committee, volunteered as a coordinator for the county's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, and was a founding member of the Ashe County Frescoes Foundation where he was a past president. For two consecutive years, he was a volunteer helping spearhead the Ashe County Armed Forces Tribute. Additionally he was a docent at Holy Trinity Church in Glendale Springs, a member of the Episcopal Foundation in Asheville, and a volunteer at Mountain Hearts. He also served as a charter member and the senior-ranking officer of the New River Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Sears, of Warrensville, N.C.; his mother, Margaret Sears, of West Jefferson, N.C.; his brother, John Sears and his wife, Gabriele, of Fleetwood, N.C.; his son, Paul Sears of San Diego, Calif.; and his daughter, Kathryn Lavigueur and her husband, Antoine, of Newport, R.I.; and five grandchildren.

Inurnment at Arlington National Cemetery will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parish of the Holy Communion, P.O. Box 177, Glendale Springs, NC 28629.

Published in The Day on January 6, 2012

Posted January 26, 2012

CAPT Bruce C. Felt , USN (Ret) - Eternal Patrol - 27 December 2011:

Bruce C. Felt passed away on December 27, 2011 in Santa Fe, NM. He was a U.S Naval Academy, graduate, Class of '57. He served honorably in the U.S. Navy for 20 years on various submarines, the final one being the USS James Madison (SSBN-627)(B) where he served as Commanding Officer. After his retirement from the Navy, he attended the Citadel Military College in Charleston, SC where he earned his MBA degree. He then began a career in R.E. Appraising, becoming a successful Appraiser with his own firm, specializing in commercial properties for many years. Later, transitioning to teaching the accredited course curriculum at the College level, for licensure in the field; first teaching at The Citadel in Charleston, SC and then ultimately at SFCC, here, where he developed the courses for the curriculum. He retired in 2008. He was a well respected instructor who earned the admiration of his colleagues and his numerous students throughout his teaching career. He is survived by his wife, Maria; his step-son, J. Scott Mason; his sister, Karen Fisher (Leland); mother-in-law, Rosanna Martinez; brothers-in-law: Nick C. Martinez and Nelson Martinez (Gina); and sister-in-law, Deborah Coltrara (David). Bruce will be remembered for his kindness, friendly manner and quick wit. He never had an unkind word to say about anyone and will be greatly missed. Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. at Berardinelli Funeral Home, January 3, 2012 followed by Interment at the Santa Fe National Cemetery with full military honors at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Santa Fe Animal Shelter in his name.

Posted January 24, 2012

Stanley R. McCord, Retired Navy Officer, Died

Stanley R. McCord, 89, a retired Navy captain who commanded three submarines and was a veteran of two wars, died Jan. 10 at the Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury retirement facility in Irvington, Va. He had dementia, his son B. Scott McCord said.

Capt. McCord graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis in 1944 and was a veteran of World War II. He also served in a combat theater during the Vietnam War. Capt. McCord spent most of his military career in submarine units. He retired from the Navy in 1967.

As a civilian, he became deputy director of the National Underwater Reconnaissance Office in the Office of Naval Intelligence. His work on top-secret projects was described in the book "Blind Man's Bluff: The Untold Story of American Submarine Espionage" by Sherry Sontag and Christopher Drew. He received the Navy's Distinguished Civilian Service Medal. Stanley Roy McCord was a native of Yeadon, Pa. He received a master's degree in mechanical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif., in 1960.

He lived in McLean before retiring to Kilmarnock, Va. A son, Rodger McCord, died in 1976.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Helen Boyd McCord of Irvington; three sons, B. Scott McCord of Bethesda and Lancaster, Va., Geoffrey McCord of Weems, Va., and Brent McCord of Manassas; a sister; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

By Matt Schudel, Washington Post, Jan 20, 2012

Posted January 24, 2012

CAPT Robert N. Nestlerode

CAPT Robert N. Nestlerode, USN (Ret) passed away on January 7, 2012 in Denver, Colorado. He graduated from Littleton High School in 1969 and received a congressional appointment to the United States Naval Academy from Colorado. He graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science and entered the United States Naval Submarine Force. He commanded the USS Birmingham (SSN-695), Naval Submarine Base, New London, CT and Naval Submarine Training Center, Pacific. He retired from Navy after thirty years of service in 2003

CAPT Nestlerode earned his Master of Science in Global Leadership from the University of San Diego in 2003.. Upon moving to Colorado Springs, he embarked on his second career as an Air Force civilian at United States Northern Command (J3) at Peterson Air Force Base. He was active in his community through his involvement with Boy Scouts of America. He volunteered as the office assistant / webmaster for Church of the Good Shepherd, Episcopal of Colorado Springs and at the Episcopal Women's Thrift Shop. He also volunteered at the Western Museum of Mining and Industry in Colorado Springs.

CAPT Nestlerode is survived by his wife of 31 years, Christine D. (Case) Nestlerode of Montrose, Colorado' their children, Karl (Jennie) Nestlerode of Portsmouth, Rhode Island; Robert Nestlerode, Jr. of Norfolk, Virginia; Austin Nestlerode of Colorado Springs, Colorado; brother, William Nestlerode, Jr. of Fort Collins, Colorado and sister, Eleanore Nestlerode of Pecos, New Mexico; as well as nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Posted December 16, 2011

RADM Ross Norman Williams, U. S. Navy (Retired)

RADM Ross Norman Williams passed away on September 18, 2011 in Gaithersburg, Maryland. He was born on Friday the 13th of May 1927, in the Bronx, New York to Harry Howard and Ruth Marie (Hanson) Williams. Ross grew up in New York City and always loved the sea and sailing from an early age. He logged his first sea time taking many trips on the Staten Island ferry to study navigation while in high school. He also enjoyed summers and sailing as a youth at the family summer home on Candlewood Lake in Connecticut.

Admiral Williams comes from many generations of seafaring men and was inspired by his uncles to take up a life on the sea. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on October 5, 1944, at the age of seventeen and launched an amazing career. After attending the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), he entered the U.S. Naval Academy; via a fleet appointment, on June 17, 1947 and graduated with the Class of 1951 on June 1, 1951. His fellow classmates described him in the "Lucky Bag" as being a sailor from the time of "iron men and wooden ships". He twice skippered the USNA yawl "Royono", including winning the iconic Newport to Bermuda yacht race.

Following graduation, Admiral Williams served on the escort destroyer USS NORRIS (DDE-859). He then attended submarine school and served on the USS HALFBEAK (SS-352). His next tour of duty was on USS ALBACORE (AGSS-569); the hydrodynamic prototype; from which all the Navy's modern nuclear-powered submarines have evolved. While stationed at the Submarine base in Groton Connecticut, he met his wonderful wife Helen June (Willis), who was the first professional librarian to manage the Submarine Base library, in Groton, Connecticut. They were married at the U.S. Naval Submarine Base, New London (Groton), Connecticut, on the 11th of February 1955.

Admiral Williams was selected for postgraduate studies in Oceanography at the University of Washington in Seattle, followed by a new construction assignment as engineer of the USS BARBEL (SS-580). He then attended Advanced Nuclear Power School in New London, Connecticut, and the A1W Prototype at the Naval Reactor Facility, Idaho Falls, Idaho. He was then assigned to the USS SEAWOLF (SSN-575) and then as Executive Officer of the USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN-625)(Blue). After completing the Prospective Commanding Officer Training at NAVSEA in Washington, D.C., he was assigned as Commanding Officer of the USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN-640) (Gold) and Commanding Officer of the USS TECUMSEH (SSBN-628) (Blue). His next assignment was in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, in Washington, D.C., as the Undersea Long Range Missile System (ULMS)(OP-97C)/Trident Program Coordinator, Head Trident Program Coordination Branch (OP-315/-211), and then as Commanding Officer of the USS L. Y. SPEAR (AS-36), in Norfolk, Virginia.

Admiral Williams was promoted to the flag rank on May 13, 1975 and assigned to the Office of the Secretary of Defense as Military Deputy for Strategic and Space Systems, Defense Research and Engineering (DDR&E/USDRE), Washington, D.C., followed by his final posting as the Oceanographer of the Navy and Deputy to the Administrator of NOAA, DOC, Washington, D.C.

Admiral Williams' awards include: Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with two gold stars for second and third award, Meritorious Service Medal and a Meritorious Unit Commendation plus other theater and service awards. He retired from the Navy on August 31, 1981.

Admiral Williams joined Ocean Data Systems, Inc. (ODSI) as Director of Space Programs, and then as scientific consultant/VP and GM of ODSI/Global Weather Dynamics Inc.-SA, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In 1986 he joined the Ball Aerospace Systems Division as Director of the Washington Office until his final retirement, to be with Helen and enjoy their home in North Potomac, Maryland.
Admiral Williams was predeceased by his loving and devoted wife of 55 years, who passed away in April 2010 from Alzheimer's disease. He is survived by their only son, Paul Norman Williams and his wife Suellen Joan (Cattanach) Williams, and two grandsons, Harry and Lachlan. A service will be held at the Fort Myer Old Post Chapel on Friday 23 December 2011, at 11:00 A.M. Interment with full military honors will follow in the Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, Those attending are asked to assemble at the chapel, with their own transportation at 10:30 A.M.

Posted October 20, 2011

Charles H. Hoke Sr., Navy captain (Ret.)

Charles H. Hoke Sr., 89, a Navy captain who retired in 1971 and then taught management classes in the 1980s at American University and other Washington area colleges, died Oct. 8 at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda.

The death was confirmed by his wife, Elizabeth Hoke.

Capt. Hoke, a Bethesda resident, served in the Navy from 1942 to 1971. He commanded the replenishment ship Mount Baker during the Vietnam War. Toward the end of his military career, he was assigned to the office of the chief of naval material and the office of the chief of naval operations.

Charles Hearn Hoke was born in Wilkinsburg, Pa., and raised in Garden City, N.Y. He was a 1944 optical engineering graduate of the University of Rochester. He received a master's degree in public administration from American University in 1968 and a doctorate in education from AU in 1973.

His memberships included Fourth Presbyterian Church in Bethesda.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Elizabeth Conklin Hoke of Bethesda; five children, retired Army Medical Corps Col. Charles Hoke Jr. and June Kaye, both of Columbia, Gregory Hoke of Columbus, Ohio, Nancy Hoke of Lahaina, Hawaii, and Coursen Hoke of Maui, Hawaii; 13 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Adam Bernstein

Posted September 19, 2011

Commander James Lawrence Smith, USN (Ret.)

Commander James Lawrence Smith, USN (Ret.), of Gales Ferry, passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 6, 2011, at home..

Jim was born the son of Lawrence and Eva (Muller) Smith on April 15, 1945, in Pensacola, Fla. Following graduation from North Olmsted High School in North Olmsted, Ohio, he attended the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis. In 1967, he spent a year as a Fulbright Scholar at the Universitat Munchen in Munich, Germany, studying quantum physics.

His 20 year career in the Navy culminated in command of the USS Sculpin (SSN 590) out of New London. Following retirement in 1987, Jim attended Connecticut College to earn a master's degree in teaching and began his second career at Griswold High School in 1992, teaching physics and chemistry. He was passionately dedicated to the success of his students and unfortunately passed away on what was to be the first day of school with his new students this year.

Jim married the love of his life and best friend, Vicki Jo Lamneck on June 17, 1967.

In addition to his wife of 44 years, he is survived by his daughter, Lauren Raye Lewis, son-in-law, Mark Lewis, and granddaughter, Meredith Gael Evangeline Lewis, and his son, Eric Howard Smith. He is also survived by his mother, Eva Smith; his brother, David Smith and his companion, Sandy Diaz; his brother, Christopher Smith, sister-in-law, Beverly Smith, and nephews, Isaac and Tyler Smith. He will also be sadly missed by his mother-in-law, Evangeline Lamneck; brother-in-law, James Lamneck; sister-in-law, Nancy Huddleston; and nieces, Amy and Bridget Lamneck.

He was an active member of Ledyard Congregational Church and a dedicated member of the choir, just one of many ways he was able to indulge in his love of music. He freely and selflessly gave of himself whenever he saw need and worked for several years for the American Cancer Society. He also was a supporter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 17, 2011, at Ledyard Congregational Church. His family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Jim's name to Ledyard Congregational Church, 722 Colonel Ledyard Highway, Ledyard CT 06339. The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl St., historic downtown Mystic, is assisting the family.

A scholarship in memory of James Smith is being planned at Griswold High School. Donations may be sent to the scholarship, c/o Griswold High School, 267 Slater Ave., Jewett City CT 06351.

To share a message of condolence or remembrance with his family, please visit www.dinotofuneral.com.

Posted September 19, 2011

VADM William J. Cowhill (Ret.)

VADM William J. Cowhill (Ret.), 83, of Great Falls, Virginia died on Saturday, September 10, 2011 at Bethesda Naval Medical Center. Beloved husband of the late Jennifer J. Cowhill; loving father of Robin, Michael and Douglas Cowhill of Great Falls, VA and Joseph (Desma) Cowhill II of Palm City, FL; brother of Jeanne Johnson of Marion, IA; grandfather of Jennifer L. and Patrick Cowhill. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Beth Ann.

Born on May 29, 1928 in Brooklyn, NY to Joseph H. and Lucy R. Cowhill, Admiral Cowhill grew up in Chicago, IL where he attended New Trier High School and Northwestern University on the NROTC program graduating in Class of 1950 with a Major in English Literature.

After graduation he was assigned to the destroyer-minesweeper USS ELLYSON. Following this tour he entered submarine training in June 1952. His initial submarine duty was a three year tour on USS TRIGGER. This was followed by a year of training in the Navy's Nuclear Program at Sub School in Groton, CT where he became one of the very first "Rickover Boys" after graduating second in his class. He was then assigned to the USS SKATE for a two year tours which included the historic Arctic Explorations during one of which the USS SKATE made the first surfacing of a submarine at the North Pole.

Subsequent sea assignments included Engineering Officer of the USS SCULPIN and executive Officer of the ill-fated USS THRESHER. His sea duty Commands included submarines USS DACE, USS WILL ROGERS, and the Submarine Tender USS HOLLAND.

In 1973 then 45 year old Captain Cowhill was promoted to Rear Admiral where various shore duty assignments included a two year tour as Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Appointed to Vice Admiral in 1979, he served his final six years of active duty as head of logistics for, first the Navy, then the Joint Chiefs.

Vice Admiral Cowhill's decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Meric (2 awards), Meritorious Service Medal and Navy Commendation Medal.

Admiral Cowhill retired in 1985 and resided in Mclean and Great Falls, VA. He was an avid reader, Redskins/White Sox/Nationals fan and enjoyed gourmet cooking and dining. When not otherwise occupied, he spent his retirement years with his four children, extended family and many loving friends running a one boat Navy on the Chesapeake Bay.

A graveside service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. Please view and sign the family's online guestbook.

Posted September 15, 2011

LCDR Kenneth Woods LCDR (Ret.)

Kenneth Woods LCDR (Ret.) of Luther Woods Convalescent Center, died Wednesday, August 10, 2011. He was 86. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Michael and Emma Woods (Langrebe). He was preceded in death by brothers: Robert, Joseph, William; and a sister Jeanne (Desher).

Ken was originally from the Juniata Park section of Philadelphia and of Kenner, Lousiana. A 1943 graduate of Frankford High school and the U.S. Naval Academy class of 1947. A hurricane Katrina survivor, he returned to Pennsylvania in 2005 and resided in Jamison, Bucks County.

Upon leaving the Naval Academy and prior to attending Submarine School, Ken served onboard the USS Houston (CL-81), USS Coral Sea (CVB-43), and the USS LST 912. Upon completion of his surface assignments, he attended, and graduated from, the U.S. Naval Submarine School at New London, CT.

His first submarine assignments were on USS Tilefish (SS-307), USS Stickleback (SS-415), Executive Officer on USS Sea Cat (SS-399), and Commanding Officer of the USS Sea Lion (APSS-315). In 1960 he was chosen to plan and execute a unique two-year oceanographic survey that extended from the Arctic Ocean to the South Pacific. By a masterpiece of good planning, Ken negotiated with COMSUBLANT for an all bachelor crew. His reasoning was sound, the ship was to operate almost continuously away from home port and the undue strain this would place on families would also place a strain on the operation of the ship. The bachelor make-up of the crew gave rise to a reputation for the ship that tended to overshadow her very real accomplishments. During two years of survey work under his command, Archerfish took more ocean gravity readings than all other surveys combined since Fridtjof Nansen took the first readings on the Fram in 1903. After Ken left Archerfish in 1962 he went to the Board of Inspection and Survey, a tour in Germany, and then to shore duty in Naples.

Upon completing his naval career Ken returned stateside to reside in Connecticut where he held various jobs before his final career with Houston Marine in Kenner, Louisiana. For over 20 years he helped mariners obtain Coast Guard licenses. He was employed full time until his middle 70s and then continued at Houston Marine on a part time basis.

Surviving are his children: Kenneth R. Woods (Louise) Horsham, PA, Donna Woods Ritting (Ray), Doylestown, PA and John Woods (Donna Huch) Dallas, TX. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren: Christian Woods of Lansdale, PA, Todd Ritting of Warrington, PA, David Woods (Amy) of Perkasie, PA, Dr. Drew Ritting of Hartford CT, Jennifer Woods Zwetolitz (Matthew) of Lansdale, PA, and Stefanie Woods of Hor-sham, PA; a great-grandchild, Audrey Elise Woods of Perkasie, PA; and a nephew, William T. Woods II of Emmaus, PA.

Funeral Services with interment will be held Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. with Full Honors in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

Memorial contributions in memory of Kenneth Woods may be sent to: National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 N.W. 9th Avenue / Bob Hope Road, Miami, Florida 33136-1494 or to the Macular Degeneration Foundation PO Box 531313, Henderson NV. 89053. To send online condolence's to his family please visit the Schneider Funeral Home, Hatboro, PA.

Posted September 6, 2011

Rear Admiral Julian Thompson Burke, Jr.

JULIAN THOMPSON BURKE, JR. Rear Admiral, US Navy. Died Monday, August 8, 2011. He was pre-deceased by his wife Betty Stuart Burke, his son Charly, and his brother Andy Burke. He is survived by his daughter Tina, her husband B Millner and her sons Gordon Lewis, his wife Jami, and Burke Lewis and his wife Leigh; his son Jud Burke and his partner Barbara Cousens; his daughter Sally, her husband Billy Brierre, and their children Will Brierre, and Stuart Brierre; five great grandchildren, Emma, Madeline, and Charlie Lewis; Ryan and Reade Lewis; his brother David Burke, his wife Agnes; his sister-in-law Polly Burke; and many devoted nieces and nephews.

Born in Alexandria, VA, April 24,1918, Julian attended Episcopal High School and The Bullis School and graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1940. In the spring of 1942, while he was assigned to the USS North Carolina, Julian and Betty were married in Falmouth, ME. Several months later, the North Carolina, engaged Japanese forces at Guadalcanal. Subsequently, he transferred to submarines and made war patrols against Japanese maritime forces until the war's end, by which time he was the skipper of the submarine Guardfish. Thereafter, his career followed shore and sea assignments. Ashore, Adm. Burke served in the Bureau of Naval Personnel and on the Staff of CINCLANT Fleet/Norfolk, VA.

He served as Executive Officer Bancroft Hall/United States Naval Academy; as Deputy Assistant CNO of the Naval Reserve at the Pentagon; as Commander US Naval Forces Japan and Commander Sixth Naval District, Charleston, SC. He was a graduate of the Naval War College. At sea, Adm. Burke had numerous commands in submarines, the amphibious force and other surface ships. As a Rear Admiral, he was Commander Amphibious Force, Seventh Fleet; and Commander Service Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. He participated in fleet deployments in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, the Western Pacific and Atlantic. He served as Captain of the presidential yacht USS Williamsburg under Truman and Eisenhower. During 36 years of active duty, Adm. Burke was honored for distinguished service. He considered his role as Commander US Naval Forces Japan, 1970-73, his most important. The Government of Japan awarded him The Second Class Order of the Sacred Treasure.

Upon retirement from active duty, Adm. Burke worked as V.P. of the Navy Relief Society; volunteered for the Alexandria Chapter of the American Red Cross, becoming an honorary lifetime member of the Board; served on the Vestry of Christ Church; and delivered Meals on Wheels with Betty. Julian Burke will be remembered as a true gentleman. He won many hearts with the twinkle in his eye, his story telling and his sense of humor. For 36 years he chose to serve our country and for the remainder of his life, he served his hometown Alexandria, his lovely "Bets' and their family.

A service celebrating his life will be held Saturday, September 10, 11 a.m., at Christ Church in Alexandria, reception following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Christ Church Foundation, 118 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314; the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, 875 N. Randolph Street, Arlington, VA 22203; the Alexandria Chapter of the American Red Cross, 123 N. Alfred St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

Posted September 6, 2011

Shipmate Bob Cox

It is my sad duty to announce the passing of Shipmate Bob Cox. Bob sailed on his Eternal Patrol at about 3:00 am this morning. He was in the hospital at the time and his family was at his side. Laverne notified me this morning that Bob had passed away. He would have been 94 on October 1.

Bob made five war patrols on Sunfish (SS-281) in WW II. He also served aboard Greenfish (SS-351) during the Korean War. He joined the navy as an Ensign in 1943 fresh out of the UCLA NROTC program, and retired as a Captain in 1974 after more than 30 years of service to his country.

He joined the San Diego Chapter as an annual member in 1984, converting his membership to chapter and national Life Member in 1988. He was Chapter President in 1994/95.

I first met Bob in 1989 when he was a leading figure in securing the old Navy Chapel on the grounds of the former Balboa Naval Hospital as a veteran s center. Bob later served on the Board of Directors of what became the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center.

He will be missed for his steadfast support of the chapter, his devotion to veteran s affairs in general, and for his keen sense of humor which never left him.

Member number 12860 is now retired. Sail in Peace Old Friend. Sailor Rest Your Oar.

Burial arrangements are pending and will be announced when details are known.

Posted August 26, 2011

Alfred C. Malchiodi

Alfred C. Malchiodi Jr., 68, of East Lyme, died at home on Monday, February 28, 2011, surrounded by his family. He was born July 18, 1942, in New London, the son of the late Alfred and Josephine (Donatello) Malchiodi. He married the former Tillie Oppido on June 1, 1968. After graduating from New London High School, he attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute, graduating with a degree in electrical engineering in 1964.

He was employed by Electric Boat for over 40 years as an electrical engineer and later as director of Submarine Concept Formulation at the time of his retirement in 2005. In 2000, he received the General Dynamics Technology Excellence Award. In 2003 Al received the Gibbs Brothers Medal from the National Academy of Sciences for leading innovations in developing naval architecture of submarines for the efficient utilization of advanced technology.

In addition to his wife of 42 years, he is survived by his four children and their spouses, Lori and Joe Pagliaro of Branford, Lynn and Carlton Cayward of Tolland, Liza and Tom Nowicki of Manchester and Michael and Andrea Malchiodi of Columbia, MD; his six grandchildren, Olivia, Jackson and Maria Cayward, Daniel and Nicole Paglario, and Julia Norwicki; and a sister, Diane Stradler of East Lyme.

His family will receive relatives and friends today from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Ave., New London. The funeral will assemble at 9 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home and proceed to the Mass of Christian. Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Joseph Chruch. Interment will be in St. Mary Cemetry.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in his memory be made to Hospice Southeastern Connecticut, 227 Dunham St. Norwich, CT 06360.

Posted June 24, 2011

CAPT Edward Clausner, Jr. USN (Ret)

Captain Ed Clausner USN (Ret), died on June 13, 2011, at Fleet Landing Retirement Community in Atlantic Beach FL, following complications from a stroke. While he grew up in Milburn NJ, where he was a three letter man in High School, Ed was appointed to USNA from Ohio after stumping Congressional offices looking for an uncommitted opening. At USNA, he continued his athletic prowess in football and baseball, with a passion for classical music and good food. He served at sea in an LST in the Korean conflict, then in fleet submarines; including duty as Commanding Officer of USS Tirante (SS420), and Chief Staff Officer of Submarine Squadron Six. Ashore he served as Director of Ocean Engineering and Support Technology, and as Deputy to the Assistant Oceanographer of the Navy. During this period, Ed was very proud to have saved the Navy a few million dollars by finding a suitable existing facility for an R & D project, instead of the Navy plan to modify one. Most of his technical service was in ocean energy conversion, deep ocean technology, and diving medicine. Along the way, he earned an MS degree in Physical Oceanography from the University of Miami.

Following USN retirement in 1974, Ed joined Tracor, Inc., working his way up to Vice President and Director of Ocean Technology before joining Western Instrument Corporation, where he was general manager of their Cable Ventures Division – specializing in all things related to submarine fiber optic and telecommunications cabling. After several years in Fort Lauderdale, Ed and his wife Betsy moved to Fleet Landing, where Ed served recently as President of the Residents' Council, and was very active in community affairs. He also continued to walk 18 holes of golf three times a week despite two artificial hips and one artificial knee. Besides Betsy, who resides at 5416 Capella Court, Atlantic Beach FL 32233, he leaves sons James E. of St Augustine FL, and John T of Alexandria VA.

A memorial service was conducted at Fleet Landing on July 6, and memorial contributions may be made to Legacy Fund at fleet Landing, 1 Fleet Landing Boulevard, Atlantic Beach FL 32233.

Posted June 6, 2011

Capt. Charles J. Beers, USN (Ret.)

Captain Charles Joseph Beers, USN (Ret), 94 years old, passed away peacefully at home at Westminster Canterbury in Virginia Beach. Born in Detroit, Michigan on February 11, 1917, he attended the United States Naval Academy where he played football and baseball and where he BEAT ARMY in the 1939 Army-Navy football game.

After graduating in the Class of 1940 he was stationed on the battleship USS Pennsylvania (BB 38) during the attack on Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941. He transferred to the Submarine Service and subsequently completed ten war patrols in the Pacific Ocean. He commanded the USS Redfish, USS Allen M. Sumner, USS Oglethorpe and Service Squadron Four; he retired in 1970 with 30 years of service.

After retirement from the United States Navy, he was Director of Registration at Old Dominion University for 12 years.

His Naval Academy legacy was continued in his son, Rear Admiral Charles J. Beers, Jr., USN (Ret), who graduated in 1967 and his grandson, Commander Clay Beers, USN, who graduated in 1995. He will be missed by his wife Joann Broaddus Beers, whom he married in 1969, and by his children Chuck, Jr and Susan Beers; Susan Hester and Lee Stephenson; JoAnn's children Cynthia Broaddus and Tommy Rose; Jim and Brenda Broaddus. He was a special Grand Pop to his 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. His first wife, June Wood Beers, died in 1967. He is also survived by his brother Wally Beers and sister Margaret Probst.

Memorial donations may be made to Westminster Canterbury Foundation, 3100 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. A Memorial Service was held at the Westminster Canterbury Chapel on Saturday, 26 February at one o'clock PM. He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery on Tuesday morning, July 5th, at 1100. Family & Friends should gather at the Arlington National Cemetery Administration Building no later than 1030. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cremate.org

Posted June 6, 2011

Capt. James B. Cambell, USN (Ret.)

Captain James Benjamin Campbell, U.S. Navy (Retired), died at home in Coronado, California May 1, 2011. Born in Detroit, Michigan on January 10, 1930 he attended Fordson High School in Dearborn, Michigan and graduated from the University of Michigan in 1953.

That same year he completed Officer Candidate School and reported for duty at Pearl Harbor where he served in USS Tilefish (SS 307), and USS Pickerel (SS 524). After attending Submarine School Jim's assignments included USS Dogfish (SS 350), USS Albacore (AGSS 569), one as weapons officer on the commissioning crew of the USS George Washington (SSBN 598), USS Bonefish (SS 582), and as Commanding Officer of USS Wahoo (SS 565). He attended the U.S. Navy Postgraduate School and National War College.

He served as Director of Compensation Studies in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the time the draft ended and the all-volunteer force began in 1973. In 1975 Jim took command of USS Jason (AR 8) and later served on the SURFPAC Staff as Assistant Chief of Staff for Maintenance and Engineering. For several years after retiring from the Navy in October 1982 he was employed by American Management Systems.

His later retirement years included time being a student, scuba diver with and without a camera, diving instructor, and volunteer with the Easter Seal adaptive aquatics program and at the Retired Activities Office on the Naval Amphibious Base, Coronado. In addition to travel along the California coast and desert areas one of his favorite activities was daily early morning time on the Coronado beach.

Jim died of complications after the successful treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betsy Gregory Campbell, their children, Gail Campbell Gormican (Jim), Jane Byron Campbell, and Douglas James Campbell (Anne), and eight grandchildren. All reside in the San Diego area. At his request no services were held and his ashes will be scattered at sea by submarine.

Posted June 6, 2011

Lt. Commander Phil V. Hansen (Ret.)

Lt. Commander Philip V. "Swede" Hansen, US Navy, Ret., of Bonneau, SC, died Saturday in a Charleston hospital.

His funeral will be 11:30 AM Wednesday morning, June 1, 2011, in the CHAPEL OF DIAL-MURRAY FUNERAL HOME, MONCKS CORNER. Interment will follow in Carolina Memorial Park, N. Charleston. Friends may call at the funeral home from 6:00 until 8:00 PM Tuesday evening.

Commander Hansen was born Jan. 28, 1927, in Chicago, IL, a son of Philip Edward Hansen and Lillian Gunderson Hansen. He was a Shriner, a member of Mt. Hope Lodge #128 AFM, and a member of the SubVets WWII. While he was in the Navy, he served aboard the USS Charr, USS Pogy, USS Cusk, USS Pomfrey, USS Blackfin, USS Barbero, USS Everglades, and the USS Shangri-LA. He served in both W.W. II and Vietnam receiving numerous awards and medals, including, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, Submarine Combat Pin, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. He also formerly worked for both Braswell and Detyens Shipyards. Commander Hansen was formerly married to Doris Crawford and was the widower of Frances M. Hansen.

Surviving are, a daughter, Linda D. Jones and her husband, Brian, of Ft. Mill; two sons, Patrick L. Hansen and his wife, Faith, of Columbia, and Michael D. Hansen and his wife, Joyce, of Louisville, KY; eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Posted May 27, 2011

Capt. Joseph DiGiacomo, USN (Ret.)

On May 16, 2011 in Rockford, IL at the age of 81. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1953, retiring after 23 years of service as a submariner. He was preceded in death by his wife, Regina DiGiacomo; son, Joseph DiGiacomo; sister, Grace Costantino; and brother, Felix DiGiacomo. He is survived by his loving daughter, Anne (Timothy) Bent; grandchildren, Taryn, Timothy Jr., Joseph and Andrea; brother, Norbert DiGiacomo; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at EVERLY-WHEATLEY FUNERAL HOME, 1500 W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA 22302 on Thursday, May 26, 2011 from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 27, 2011 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1427 W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA 22302 at 12 Noon. Interment will follow at Ivy Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bickford House Assisted Living, 960 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61107.

Posted May 16, 2011

Sidney Elizabeth Donelson Meyer

Sidney Elizabeth Donelson Meyer, devoted wife of Captain Joseph Meyer, USN (Ret.), passed away the night of 14 May 2011. She was 85 years of age, and in December 2008 was the victim of multiple strokes which caused severe damage to her left temporal lobe. In Norfolk she was active with the Girl Scouts and the Submarine Officer's Wives Club and served as editor of their monthly newsletter 'Dolphin Doin's'. In that role she became closely associated with Mrs. Joe Grenfell in getting the Dolphin Scholarship Program underway. She sang in the Honolulu and Rancho Bernardo Chorales. She had solo singing and dancing parts in the annual Pearl Harbor Mardi Gras stage productions. Up until her strokes, she sang with the La Costa Glen Aires and touched everyone with her love of life.

Private funeral services will be held at the Miramar National Cemetery. A memorial celebration will be held at La Costa Glen at a date to be determined. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, her three daughters and a sister in Wisconsin. Gifts in the form of donations in Sidney's name to San Diego Hospice & Palliative Care, 4311 Third Ave., San Diego, CA 92103-1407 will be appreciated.

Posted April 13, 2011

Sanford Norman Levey, USN, Ret.

Sanford Norman Levey, USN, Ret. was born in Brooklyn, New York, on July 10, 1929. Although both his parents had passed away by the time he was nine, leaving him to sleep in the living room at his older sister's, he strove to overcome challenging circumstances. He gained entry to Brooklyn Technical High School, which was followed by night classes at Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute. After enlisting in the Navy and distinguishing himself in several areas, he was selected for the N.A. Prep. School. As he was nearing graduation from the latter, he met his future wife, Betty Eleanor Pickett of Sykesville, Maryland. After four years of courtship, they were married in 1953.

Graduation from the Naval Academy was followed by submarine service. Over 14 years, Sandy served on six submarines: Two diesels, two nuclear vessels, and two Fleet Ballistic Missiles; commanding the last two before going to shore duty, where he was director of Officer Training at the Naval Submarine School. Sandy's family lived in areas including Norfolk and Alexandria, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Key West, Florida; Groton and Mystic, Connecticut; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 1972 the Leveys found themselves in Rota, Spain, where Sandy was assigned a split tour as Squadron Training Officer, and Commanding Officer of the USS Simon Lake. The family enjoyed immersing itself in Spanish arts and culture. Sandy retired from the Navy in 1978.

Sandy worked for submarine support contractors before forming his own consulting, tax, and accounting business, SBC, Inc. He was a founding director of the Naval Submarine League and served as chairman of the Membership Committee during the organization's most rapid growth period. He and Betty extended their love of antiquing to selling their finds in stores and antique malls in Maryland and Virginia; they took yearly antique hunting trips to England. In 2003 he sold his business and he and Betty moved to The Magnolias at Leisure World, in Clifton, Virginia. Until his health started a more rapid decline, around 2009, he continued to pursue interests including tennis, reading, music appreciation, gourmet dining, and involvement in several Leisure World committees.

Sandy is survived by his wife, Betty, his daughter, Mary Smyth, in San Diego, California, and his son, Robert Levey, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. There are two grandchildren; Sean and Derek Levey.

Services and interment are pending at Arlington National Cemetery.

Posted April 8, 2011

Bettye Byron

Bettye "BJ" Byron of Cocoa Beach died on Tuesday, March 29, 2011. She was 77. Cause of death was cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

Born and raised in Nashville, BJ held a degree in chemistry from Peabody College (now part of Vanderbilt University), and later earned a masters degree in gifted education at George Mason University.

A life member of the National Education Association, she was a grade school teacher in Cocoa Beach and taught high-school science in the Washington DC area. She also worked on Boeing space programs and designed curriculum for the Saudi Navy Expansion Program. A lifelong Democrat, she worked in the 2000 Al Gore campaign at his Nashville headquarters and attended the 2004 National Democratic Convention.

While living in the French Quarter in New Orleans she was a princess in the Krewe of Iris. She also lived in Pensacola, Seattle, San Diego, and Arlington, VA.

She enjoyed antiques and fine art, supported the National Symphony Orchestra for years, and was a 1991 graduate of Leadership Brevard and a member of the Eau Gallie Yacht Club. She was past president of the Submarine Officers Wives Club in San Diego and the Navy Wives Club here.

BJ's first marriage to the late Robert Hemings ended in divorce. She was married to John Byron for the last 37 years of her life. BJ leaves two children, Rosemary Hemings of Carmel, CA and Emerson Hemings of New Smyrna Beach. She also leaves three step-children, Julie Shively, Justina Byron, and Joseph Byron, all of Denver, and a total of 12 grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Her parents, Ila and Ben Phillips, and her younger sister, Barbara Bebout, died earlier.

She will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Per her wishes there will be no local service.

(Published in FLORIDA TODAY on March 30, 2011)

Posted April 8, 2011

Captain Jon Paul Scott, USN (Ret)

CAPT Jon Paul Scott, USN (Ret) of Rye, N.H., died on March 26, 2011, due to complications after surgery. He attended Drew Preparatory School before entering the U.S. Naval Academy. He graduated in 1963 and was editor of the yearbook, The Lucky Bag. During his 28-year career in the Navy, he served on the submarines USS John Marshall (SSBN 611), USS James Madison (SSBN 627) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (SSBN 600). He taught NROTC at the University of Utah and was commanding officer of the USS Lafayette, (SSBN 616) from 1979 to 1984. His last duty was as Commander Submarine Fleet Atlantic Representative at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard from February 1986 to August 1991.

Following his retirement in 1991, CAPT Scott earned his master's in mechanical engineering at University of New Hampshire. He continued there in the Ocean Engineering Department as coordinator of the Senior Design Course Tech 797 and worked as a consultant for JPS Industries doing fluid dynamic computer modeling of paper mill wastewater ponds and reactor cooling ponds. He founded JPS Engineering and Design and also did studies of Hampton Harbor, the York River and the area of Great Bay for new bridge construction.

CAPT Scott was a loving husband to his wife of 47 years, Peggy (Hedly) Scott, and a caring father to Tulsa A. Scott and his wife, Janice (Pacuk) Scott of Mystic, Conn., and Michael F. Scott of Rye and two grandchildren. He was past commodore of both the Portsmouth Yacht Club and the Portsmouth Navy Yacht Club. He enjoyed sailing and working on his wooden sailboat, skiing, woodworking and computing.

Posted March 29, 2011

MSCM (SS) Jose Vincente, USN (Ret)

It is our sad duty to inform you all of the passing of a Shipmate. Jose Vincente, 83, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2011, at home surrounded by his loving family. Jose was born on March 19, 1928 on Corregidor Island in the Philippines, the son of Modesto and Pilar Vicente.

As an English speaking Filipino in his later teenage years and during the early years of the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, Jose bravely sought out the opportunity to join the U.S. Navy. Jose qualified in submarines on the USS SEALION (SS-315) in 1950. He also served onboard the USS BECUNA (SS 319), USS DOGFISH (SS 350), USS HAWKBILL (SS 366), USS ATULE (SS 403), USS TINOSA (SSN 606), and the USS TULLIBEE (SSN 597). Jose was a retired Navy veteran who served this country in World War II and retired as a MSCM (SS). Following his military service of 32 years, he worked for the Norwich Bulletin as a circulation manager.

Jose joined us at USSVI Groton Base in 2001and was a Life and Holland Club member. He enjoyed playing and then umpiring softball, the latter of which he did for 54 years. In 2009, he was inducted into the Connecticut ASA Hall of Fame and he was a former president of the Eastern Connecticut Board of Umpires. He was also a proud Filipino-American and once served as the president of the local Filipino-American Club.

In 1954 he was married to Barbara (Bello) Vincente, and they shared a wonderful life together for 57 years. Jose is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons, Steven and his wife, Janice, of Hanover, N.H., Robert and his wife, Patricia, of Oakdale, Joseph and his wife, Aimee, of Westbrook, Curt and his wife, Cari, of Mansfield; and ten grandchildren. He was predeceased by his father, Modesto Vicente, a veteran of the Philippine Army and survivor of the Bataan Death March during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in 1942.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Hospice of Southeastern Connecticut, 227 Dunham St., Norwich CT 06360.

Posted March 29, 2011

CDR William Harrison Leisk Jr., USN (Ret)

CDR William Harrison Leisk Jr., died March 12, 2011. He grew up in and around the harbors of the San Pedro and Avalon. He also worked as an extra in the films Mrs. Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch and Pecks Bad Boys starring W.C. Fields.

CDR Leisk attended military school and Chadwick High graduating in 1941. A strong swimmer, he worked for the City of Los Angeles as a lifeguard at Santa Monica. During World War II Bill served as an enlisted man in the Coast Guard before entering the Navy Officers training program.

After his commission CDR Leisk served as a gunnery officer on the USS Iowa (BB 61).In 1948, he married Elaine Carlson and entered submarine school in New London, Conn. After graduation he was stationed in Pearl Harbor and San Diego serving on USS Queenfish (SS 393), USS Cabazon (SS 334), USS Blackfin (SS 322), USS Remora (SS 487) and as skipper of USS Capitaine (AGSS 336).

Retiring from the Navy in 1964, CDR Leisk worked in real estate, oceanography, taught at Mesa Junior College, ran the N.O.A.A Calibration and worked in yacht financing and insurance. Governor Wilson appointed him to the Boating and Waterways Commission where he served for several years. As a member of the San Diego Yacht Club and all around waterman, he was an accomplished paddler, body surfer, diver, power boater, fisherman and sailor. He was the unofficial ambassador at large for Santa Catalina Island and will be missed by many. He is survived by his wife Elaine, sons William and Stuart, and four grandchildren. Services will be held at Christ Lutheran Church March 26, at 2 p.m. 4761 Cass St., San Diego.

Posted March 14, 2011

Captain Bennie Lyle "Jim" Fletcher, III, USN (Ret.)

Captain Bennie Lyle "Jim" Fletcher, III, USN (Ret.), 65, husband of Marcia Finlator Fletcher of Isle of Palms, SC, passed away on Friday, March 11, 2011. The relatives and friends of Captain Fletcher are invited to attend his Inurnment Service with full military honors, Saturday, March 19, 2011, at 1:00 p.m., at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, followed by a 2:00 p.m., Memorial Service at Sunrise Presbyterian Church of Sullivan's Island, 3222 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island.

Captain Fletcher was born on April 28, 1945, in Washington, DC, son of Bennie Lyle Fletcher, Jr., and Nadine Elizabeth Wilcher Fletcher. A 1967 graduate of the US Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD, he earned two master's degrees. He served as a Submarine Captain in the United States Navy, retiring after 28 years. He was a life member of the USNA Alumni Association, Disabled American Veterans and an avid sailor having participated in many local sailing regattas.

Captain Fletcher was a very active member with his church. He is survived by his wife, Marcia J. Fletcher of Isle of Palms, SC; two sons, Bryan L. Fletcher and his wife, Jennifer, and their children Jessie and Madeline, and John "Tad" Fletcher and his wife, Kristen, and their children, Morgan and Brendan all of Charleston, SC; his parents, Bennie and Nadine Fletcher, Jr. of Winston-Salem, NC; brother, Gregory W. Fletcher and his wife Megan of Middleburg, VA and sister, Janice L. Gentry and her husband Buddy of Lexington, NC; nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to the National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 N.W. 9th Avenue, Bob Hope Road, Miami, FL 33136.

Posted March 14, 2011

Captain William Arthur Matson II, USN (Ret)

Captain Bill Matson died of a heart attack on 24 February, 2011 on the slopes while on a ski vacation in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. He was a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Class of 1950.

After serving aboard USS Charles S. Sperry (DD697) and USS Grosbeak (AMS14) he became a submariner and served aboard USS Sea Fox (SS402). He was selected for the submarine nuclear power program and his subsequent career was heavily influenced by Hyman G. Rickover. He served aboard USS Seawolf (SSN575), USS Nautilus (SSN571), USS Skate (SSN578), and USS Andrew Jackson (SSBN619).

He commanded USS Narwhal (SSN671), a one-of-a-kind nuclear attack submarine with a unique power train propulsion system. Bill was also Commanding Officer of the Nuclear Power School. He later became Commander of Submarine Squadron Two in New London, CT.

After retirement from the U.S. Navy in 1976, he was President of Matson Associates, consultant to DOE projects and nuclear power facilities. He joined the staff of Stone and Webster Engineering Corporation and became VP, Project Management Division.

Bill was a member of the Brae Burn Country Club, Newton, Mass.; Algonquin Club, Boston, MA; President's Circle, United States Naval Academy; Trustee, New England Aquarium; Member of Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA; and a subscriber of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He was an avid sailor and was on the water at every opportunity on his boat Bayberry 11. He was very active in his church and community. His love of sports was highlighted by the great pleasure he had watching his three grandsons play soccer in high school and college.

He was the beloved husband of the late Jane(Peacock)Matson for 37 years. Bill is survived by his daughter, Pamela Olsen and her husband Robert Olsen of Norwell, Mass., three grandsons, Ryan Daniel, Brett Randall and Andrew Robert all of Norwell, Mass. and son David Scott Matson and wife Diana of Scituate, Mass. and Jackpot. Bill was predeceased by his son Willis A. Matson III.

A funeral service was held on Friday, March 4th at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Falmouth, MA. His ashes will be spread on Cape Cod Bay. Memorial donations may be made to St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Falmouth, MA. 02540.

Posted February 5, 2011

VADM James B. Wilson, USN (Ret)

VADM James B. Wilson, died of pneumonia Monday, Jan. 24, at Kendal Crosslands, a retirement community in Pennsbury Township. He was an Eagle Scout and attended Duke University for a year before he received an appointment to the Naval Academy.

In his senior year, he commanded the 24th Company, winning the competition for efficiency. The color girl who made the presentation was Mr. Wilson's former high school sweetheart and fiancée, Dorothy Ann Hargrove. The couple married in June 1946 after he graduated from the academy. Mr. Wilson spent his first two years as a naval officer aboard destroyers. Then, after graduating first in his class in 1948 from submarine school in New London, Conn., he spent more than 20 years in the submarine service.

In 1959, he commanded the submarine Dogfish. He later was executive officer of the Ethan Allen and commanded the Andrew Jackson, both nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarines. Promoted to captain in 1967, Mr. Wilson served ashore in administrative positions and at sea, including commanding a submarine squadron and support ships at Pearl Harbor. From 1971 to 1973, as a rear admiral, he served in Vietnam and was in charge of the withdrawal of naval operations. The assignment earned him a Distinguished Service Medal. After a year in the Office of the Secretary of the Navy in Washington, Mr. Wilson was promoted to vice admiral in 1974. For the next four years, he was chief of naval education, including supervising the Naval Academy, the Naval Postgraduate School, and the Naval War College, and earned a second Distinguished Service Medal for his performance.

After he retired from the Navy in 1978, Mr. Wilson and his wife lived on a farm in Maryland, where he was active with Boy Scout organizations and the Maryland Environmental Trust. Since the mid-1990s, the couple had lived at Kendal Crosslands, where Mr. Wilson helped establish a mentoring program, pairing retirees with schoolchildren. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of West Chester.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Wilson is survived by sons George and Matthew; a daughter, Susan Fowler; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Another son, Henry, died in 1983.

A life celebration was held Feb. 26, at Kendal Crosslands, 1660 E. Street Rd., Pennsbury.

Memorial donations may be made to the Crosslands Health Center Fund, Box 100, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348.

Posted February 5, 2011

CAPT Allison L. Maynard, USN (Ret)

Captain Allison L. Maynard, USN (Ret) passed away Dec. 15, 2010. He was commissioned ensign upon graduation from the Naval Academy in June 1946. During his first 30 months of commissioned service he served in the destroyers, USS Johnston and USS William R. Rush, and in the destroyer escort USS Foss. After entering the Submarine Force in 1949 he qualified in submarines in USS Dogfish, then served in USS Crevalle and USS Spikefish.

From 1953 to 1956 he was instructor in marine engineering at the U.S. Naval Academy. During this tour he completed law school at the University of Maryland, graduating with an L.L.B. degree. He then served 15 months as executive officer in USS Threadfin. From October 1957 until July 1960, he commanded USS Mackerel and USS Requin.

In 1960 he attended the Naval War College at Newport, R.I. During the next two years he was assigned to the Strategic Plans Division of the office of the Chief of Naval Operations. He then assisted in setting up the second Polaris Submarine Squadron-in Rota, Spain, where he served as operations and readiness officer and as chief staff officer. He served four tours at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

During his tour in command of the Submarine Division, Captain Maynard was squadron commander of eight submarines, USS Argonaut, USS Carp, USS Redfin, USS Requin, USS Runner, USS Sea Lion, USS Torsk and the experimental submarine USS X-1 and was the commanding officer of USS LaSalle.

Capt. Maynard served 30 years total in the U.S. Navy and 25 years as a maritime lawyer (Doctorate of Law). He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Audrey Helen Maynard; daughter and son-in-law, Deborah and Dr. William Pamplin of New Hampshire, and grandchildren, Dr. James and Diana Pamplin of New Hampwhire, great-granddaughter, Rachel, and grandchildren, Amanda and Anthony French and great-grandsons, Benjamin and William French; another daughter, Pamela Galbreath, husband John and children Robert, Andrew and Daniel of Wyoming; niece and nephew, Norman and Andrea Breitenbach. He is also survived by his sisters, Jackie Bradley and Vera Deo of Vermont and two brothers, Reginald and Roger Maynard. He was predeceased by his brother, Peter Maynard of Vermont.

A funeral was conducted at Little Creek Amphibious Base Chapel with Fr. James M. Shea officiating. The interment with military honors will follow in Princess Anne Memorial Park. Contributions in his name can be made to Wounded Warrior Fund, www.woundedwarrior.org or KWDA Wounded Warrior Fund, P.O. Box 51, Lewes, DE 19958.

Posted February 17, 2011

CDR Whittier G. Davis, USN (Ret)

Whittier G. Davis '49, died at Balboa Naval Hospital of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases sometime in December 2010. He graduated from the Navy's V-12 program at Northwestern University and Bowling Green University. The day before he was to be commissioned Ensign, he was sworn in as a Midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, where he developed a deep love of sailing and met Elizabeth Floyd (Libby). He graduated and was finally commissioned in June, 1949, marrying Libby the next day. He reported to a destroyer and served nine plus months in the Sea of Japan during the Korean War. After submarine school, he was aboard various submarines and on Westpac tours, commanding the USS Razorback (SS 394).

Following command he was on the Anti Submarine Warfare staff and the Test & Evaluation Force. He retired in 1972 to go sailing. During the 1960s, Whit had a Rhodes Ranger "Playmate" racing from Coronado, Ford Island (Hawaii), and Key West. During 1969 he launched the Newport 41 "Lola" and two months after retiring, he raced to Puerto Vallarta. The next 15 years he raced to Acapulco, twice to Manzanillo, and two additional races to Puerto Vallarta. Sailing on longtime friends' boats, Whit also sailed the Bermuda Race, Newport RI - Annapolis, two Transpacs and two Clipper/Kenwood Cups, Cabo San Lucas, and La Paz.

Whit is survived by his wife of 61 years, Libby; his sons Whit (Emy) of Vista, Rod (Liz) of New Zealand, Geoff (Juan) of Chula Vista; eight grandchildren and his 6th Dalmatian. Friends are invited to Coronado Yacht Club, on January 27, 2011, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., to revisit happy times. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Coronado Maritime Foundation are suggested.

Posted February 17, 2011

Captain Charles Stuart Carlisle ("Chuck")

Charles S. Carlisle '47, died in the early morning hours on December 31, 2010, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Dorothy "Dutch" Carlisle; his three children, Cynthia Carlisle, Bruce Carlisle and his wife Debbie, and Margaret Carlisle; his six grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

Chuck graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, married Dutch, and began a distinguished career in the U.S. Navy beginning on the destroyer USS Wiltsie. In 1949, he joined the submarine service. He served on the USS Amberjack until 1952, when Admiral Rickover selected him to participate in his fledgling program to develop a nuclear powered submarine. There he spent three years in the development of the first sodium-cooled reactor prototype. He was then assigned as Engineering Officer on the original crew of the historic USS Seawolf. After four years of service on the Seawolf, Chuck became the director of the Nuclear Power School. In 1958, he became second in command of the USS Swordfish, followed in 1963 by his assignment as the Gold Crew Commanding Officer of the USS Tecumseh, a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine. In 1967, Captain Carlisle was assigned to the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in Washington, D.C., followed by a tour of duty at the Pentagon. During this period he received his Masters Degree from George Washington University. In 1970, he was selected as the Commander, Submarine Squadron Ten and in 1971 served as the Chief of Staff to the Commander of the Submarine Flotilla Two.

In 1973, it was time for a change and he "retired" from the Navy to act as the Atomic Energy Commission's Field Representative in building the Fast Flux Test Facility at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation in Richland, Washington. In 1981 Chuck retired from government service to act as Deputy Program Director at the Washington Public Power Supply System. After the termination of the WPPS nuclear power plant construction program, he continued to work as a consultant to the Hanford Project until his retirement in 1996. Even in retirement, Chuck continued to contribute to the nuclear industry, consulting and writing.

Fiercely proud of his Scottish ancestry, Chuck was also interested and widely read in world history and the development of the nuclear power industry. He was known for his integrity, intelligence, and humility. A man of deep thoughts and a warm heart, he was respected and revered by all who knew him. He was a devoted husband and father, and leaves behind a void that cannot be filled.

A Memorial Service was held at All Saints Episcopal Church in Richland, Washington on Saturday January 8, 2011.

Posted February 16, 2011

RADM Donald P. Hall, USN (Ret.)

RADM Donald P. Hall, USN (Ret.) passed away peacefully at home on 25 January 2011 in the company of his family and friends.

RADM Hall was born on 06 December 1927 in Winthrop, Massachusetts. The son of a career Army and Air Force officer, he graduated from Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus, GA in June 1944 and enlisted in the Navy in January 1945. After appointment from the Secretary of the Navy, he entered the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland in 1946. He graduated and was commissioned an Ensign in June 1950.

RADM Hall served 37 years in the United States Navy, the vast majority of which was spent in the nuclear submarine force. His distinguished career included service aboard USS NAUTILUS (SSN 571) during the first under ice transit of the North Pole in August 1958; commissioning Executive Officer USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616(B)): Commanding Officer USS HENRY L. STIMSON (SSBN 655 (B)); Commanding Officer U.S. Naval Submarine School; Commander Submarine Squadron SIX; TRIDENT Program Manager; and Commander Submarine Group SIX.

Following his retirement from the United States Navy in October 1981, RADM Hall served until November 1989 as Vice President and Senior Vice President for Nuclear Operations at the Illinois Power Company in Decatur, Illinois. In December 1989, RADM took a position as Group Vice President for Nuclear Operations at Houston Lighting and Power, Houston, Texas. Four years later, RADM Hall retired to Burgaw, NC where he continued to actively serve in his local community and St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Castle Hayne, North Carolina.

RADM Hall is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sarah Cranford Hall, his son, CDR Donald R. Hall, USN (Ret.), grandchildren CAPT Donald P. Hall II, USMC, Diana M. Hall, David C. Hall, and one great-grandchild, Kirsten S. Hall.

A prayer service and visitation will be held at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home, 308 W. Fremont Street, Burgaw, NC on Friday, 28 January 2011 at 6:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 4849 Castle Hayne Road, Castle Hayne, NC at 1200 noon, Saturday 29 January 2011. A private burial service for family and friends will take place at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, Jacksonville, NC at 1200 noon, Tuesday 01 February 2011. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation, Marine Corps Base P.O. Box 227, Quantico, VA 22134-0227 or Boys Town, P.O. Box 145-MEM, Boys Town, NE 68010

Posted January 19, 2011

VADM Lando W. Zech Jr., USN (Ret)

Former NRC Chairman Lando W. Zech, Jr., age 87, a retired Navy Vice Admiral who later served as Chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission died on Sunday, January 9, 2011. Admiral Zech, a resident of Falls Church, VA was born in Astoria, Oregon and spent his youth in Seattle, Washington, where he attended Roosevelt and Lakeside high schools. He was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis in 1941. At Annapolis, he played varsity baseball and basketball. In his senior year, he captained the baseball team.

Admiral Zech served 39 years in the Navy after his graduation from the Naval Academy in 1944 with the World War II Class of 1945. His first assignment was to the destroyer USS JOHN D. HENLEY (DD 553) in the western Pacific where he participated in the second battle for the Philippines, the Iwo Jima and Okinawa campaigns and on picket station duty off the coast of Japan during the last days of the war. After the war he had a second destroyer tour on the USS HENRY W. TUCKER (DD 875).

Admiral Zech volunteered for submarine duty and subsequently commanded four submarines, USS SEA ROBIN (SS 407), USS ALBACORE (AGSS 569), and after nuclear power training, USS NAUTILUS (SSN 571) and USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620). He later commanded the guided missile cruiser USS SPRINGFIELD (CLG 7). Upon his selection to flag rank, he served as Commandant of the Thirteenth Naval District in Seattle, WA, the Chief of Naval Technical Training in Memphis, TN and as Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Japan in Yokosuka. After his selection to Vice Admiral he served as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Manpower, Personnel and Training and Chief of Naval Personnel in Washington, D.C. He retired from the Navy in 1983.

Admiral Zech graduated from the Armed Forces Staff College, the National War College and received a Masters Degree in International Affairs from George Washington University. In addition to campaign and foreign service medals he was awarded two Distinguished Service Medals, two Legions of Merit and the Navy Commendation Medal.

On retiring from the Navy he was appointed a Commissioner and later Chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission by President Ronald Reagan. During this 5 year appointment he visited all 110 nuclear powered plants in the United States and many plants overseas including Chernobyl after the accident in the then Soviet Union. After retiring from the NRC, he served on the Board of Directors of the Commonwealth Edison Company (now Exelon) for another 5 years and later as a Nuclear Safety consultant.

Admiral Zech had been a resident of Falls Church since 1983. He was a parishioner of the Cathedral of Saint Thomas More in Arlington, VA, a supporter of the U.S. Naval Academy, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, U.S.A., the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton and a member of the Army Navy Country Club. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Josephine K. Zech; five daughters: Janet Z. Cocke (James) of Richmond, VA, Joanne Z. Lyons (Coleman) of Atlanta, GA, Nancy Z. Cunnane (Robert) of Coto de Caza, CA, Carol M. Zech of Arlington, VA and Patricia Z. Nelson (Kirk) of Sammamish, WA.; his 12 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Also surviving are his brothers, Dr. Robert J. Zech and Dr. Jerome M. Zech, both of Seattle. He was preceded in death by his brother John R. Zech. The family will be receiving friends at the MURPHY FUNERAL HOME of ARLINGTON, 4510 Wilson Blvd. on Friday, January 14 beginning with the recitation of the rosary at 3:15 p.m. followed by calling hours from 4 to 6 p.m. His life will be celebrated with a Mass of Christian Burial and interment with Full Military Honors in Arlington National Cemetery to be announced at a future date. Memorial gifts may be made to the Archdiocese for the Military Services USA, 1025 Michigan Ave. N.E., P.O. Box 4469, Washington, DC 20017 or to the Naval Academy Foundation, 291 Wood Road, Beach Hall, Annapolis, MD 21402-5001 or to the Cathedral of Saint Thomas More, 3901 Cathedral Lane, Arlington, VA 22203.

Posted September 28, 2010

CAPT Rosemary G. "Rosey" (Geraghty)

CAPT Rosemart G. "Rosey" (nee Geraghty) died on Sept. 20, 2010,. Formerly of Alexandria, VA, she was the wife of the late CAPT Kenneth E. Cox, USN (Ret). Survived by her stepson Whitney (Suzanne) Cox of London UK, her stepdaughter Hillary (Dave) Bochniak of Chicago and 3 grandchildren. Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation on Tuesday Sept. 28, 2010 at 10 A.M. at St. Pius X Church, 220 Lawrence Rd., Broomall, PA. Funeral Mass to follow at 11 A.M. Inurnment will be at Arlington National Cemetery on 11 January 2011 at 12:45pm. Contributions may be made in Rosey's memory to Crossing the Finish Line, 980 Harvest Dr., Suite 203, Blue Bell, PA 19422.

Posted September 27, 2010

Arthur Lee Carter CWO USN (Ret)

Arthur Lee Carter CWO USN (Ret), President, San Diego Chapter SubVetsWW2, 6 December 1919 – 23 September 2010.

It is my sad duty to report to you the passing of our Shipmate and President of SubVets WW2 Chapter San Diego CA, Art Carter. He departed on his "Final Patrol" at 2:30pm on 26 September.

Art was born in New Washington Ohio. He enlisted in the US Navy in San Francisco, Ca. in 1936. After serving on small ships, including the Destroyer, USS Sicard, (DD346). In June of 1940, he reported aboard the USS New Mexico (BB40) in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii--he volunteered to become a Fire Controlman. The New Mexico departed Pearl Harbor in May of 1941 for duty in the Atlantic as part of the Neutrality Patrol. The ship was enroute to Portland when war was declared. The Battleship returned to Pearl Harbor after a short stay in San Francisco.

In June 1942, Art volunteered for Submarine duty. After completion of schools, he was attached to the USS Bowfin (SS287) precommissioning crew. After commissioning of Bowfin in May of 1943, the Boat departed for the South Pacific where she made nine successful war patrols out of Australia, Guam, and Pearl Harbor. At war's end, the Bowfin was sent to Philadelphia for decommissioning in the spring of 1946.

Art reported aboard the USS Piper (SS409) in early 1946. On 23 August 1946, he married Edna May Heaton of Kansas City, Missouri, in the city of Boston Mass. In 1948, he reported for duty in New London, Conn. to help rebuild the Fire Control School building which had been destroyed by fire. In late 1951 he received orders to report to the USS Tang (SS563). In the summer of 1955, Art was appointed as Warrant Officer and was detached to the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard as Superintendent for Submarine Overhaul.

In February of 1958, he reported for duty aboard the Submarine Tender, USS Nereus (AS17) in San Diego, CA. In 1961, he reported to the Pacific Reserve Fleet, 32nd St., San Diego, CA. His duties included the decommissioning of ships and riding the tows to Suisun Bay area for long time storage.

In 1961, Art and his wife purchased land in Lakeside CA, and constructed a Kennel for Boarding, Grooming, and Show Dogs. In Jan 1963, he was transferred to the USS Grand Canyon (AD28) in Naples, Italy. While the ship was in Newport, RI, Art retired from the US Navy after 28 years service.

Returning to San Diego, he and his wife spent the next 10 years with the Kennel operation. They sold the business in 1974 and retired in Crest, CA, but continued to show dogs for clients.

Art became interested in Sailing, and in 1978 he bought a Sailboat and enjoyed Sailing and playing the Organ. Since 1988, Art and his wife lived in a townhouse in the Old Town Area of San Diego. They enjoyed traveling, visiting the Zoo, the Maritime Museum, and any Submarine related activities.

Art's Military awards include: Submarine Qualification Pin, Submarine Combat Patrol Pin with 8 Stars for successful War Patrols, Bronze Star Medal with "V", Letter of Commendation with "V", Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Award with 3 Stars, American Defense with "A", American Campaign, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign with 8 Battle Stars, World War Two Victory Medal, National Defense Medal, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, United Nations Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and Letter of Commendation with Pendant.

Art was the proud; much respected, and beloved President of SubVetsWW2, San Diego Chapter, and a member of the Naval Submarine League here in San Diego.

He will be missed and remembered by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. The cause of Death has not yet been officially confirmed at this writing. Services are pending and will be published as soon as dates become available.

"Sailor, Rest Your Oar"

CJ Glassford
Chaplain
SubVetsWW2

Posted September 27, 2010

Capt. ROBERT BAILEY CONNELLY, USN (Ret.)

Capt. ROBERT BAILEY CONNELLY, USN (Ret.) On Tuesday, July 13, 2010 in Silver Spring, MD, formerly of Jamestown, RI from complications associated with Alzheimer's disease.

He was born in Los Angeles, CA, on September 10, 1930 to then Lt. Bailey Connelly and Evelyn Coloney Connelly. He graduated from the US Naval Academy with the 2nd Company in 1952, and married Elizabeth Ann Bayne the following November. He served on the battleship Wisconsin (BB-64) for two years before attending Electronics School and Submarine School in 1955. After two years on the USS Blackfin (SS-322), he had nuclear power training, and reported to the USS Sargo (SSN-583) which made the first winter surfacing at the North Pole in February, 1960. Subsequent sea duty was as Commissioning Engineer of the USS John Marshall (SSBN-611), Commissioning Executive Officer of the USS Sam Rayburn (SSBN-635) and Commanding Officer of the USS John C. Calhoun (SSBN-630). His first shore duty was at the Naval Submarine School as Head of the Officer''s Training Depart-ment. Subsequent duty included the staff of Commander, Submarines, US Atlantic Fleet, and finally as Chair of Submarine Warfare at the US Naval War College, Newport, RI from which he retired in 1977. Capt. Connelly was employed by Purvis Systems, Inc. in Newport, RI for several years. He was among the founding partners of The Newport Athletic Club, was a member of the Board of the Newport Armed Services YMCA, and a vestryman and member of Trinity Church, Newport, RI. Survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth; daughter, Cathleen of Washington, DC; sons, Robert, Jr. of Arlington, VA and Thomas Bayne of Mansfield, MA; and two grandsons, Matthew Gordon Connelly and Samson Bailey Connelly.

A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Church, One Queen Anne Square, Newport, RI 02840 on Saturday, July 31 at 10 a.m. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday, September 15 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Trinity Church or to the US Naval Academy Alumni Association, www.usna.com.

Posted August 3, 2010

Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr., USNR (Ret.)

Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr., USNR (Ret.) 75, died Thursday, July 29, 2010, in Tampa. A native of Tallahassee, Collins was born on Sept. 3, 1934 to Mary Call Darby Collins and former Florida Governor LeRoy Collins. He graduated from Leon High School where he was an Eagle Scout and served as president of the student body. He accepted an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy graduating in the class of 1956.

Admiral Collins embarked upon a 34-year military career retiring as a Rear Admiral in 1990. He.served in the Navy for over 10 years of active duty, beginning with a tour aboard amphibious transport USS Calvert (APA-32). He also served as an analyst for Naval Intelligence in Washington, D.C. and as a ballistic missile weapons officer aboard the newly commissioned nuclear powered fleet ballistic missile submarine USS James Madison (SSBS-627). He transferred to the Navy Reserves in 1966.While a naval reservist, Admiral Collins served as commanding officer of the coastal minesweeper USS Thrush (MSC-204), and later as commanding officer of various Navy Reserve submarine units. He was the Navy's liaison to the Florida National Guard, and later commanding officer of the Naval liaison unit at U.S. Readiness Command, headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa.

Admiral Collins also became a prominent businessman and civic leader in Florida. He was instrumental in the growth of electronic payment systems in the United States, starting with the introduction of credit cards in Florida and the Southeast. As the founder and president of the Armed Forces Financial Network, Admiral Collins pioneered the deployment of ATMs and point-of-sale devices in U.S. military installations worldwide, including major U.S. aircraft carriers. He also held several other positions, including founding president of Financial Transaction Systems, Inc. and a senior executive of Telecredit Service Center, Inc. Rather than retiring, Admiral Collins mounted an unsuccessful campaign for the U.S. Senate in 2006. He was then appointed by Governor Charlie Crist as the executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, where he directed the state agency responsible for all of Florida's 1.8 million veterans. Continuing his support of the military community, Admiral Collins also recently founded the Florida Veterans Foundation, Inc. At the time of his death, he was on the boards of the USS Victory Ship and the Collins Center for Public Policy.

He married the love of his life, Carol Jane Sisson, of Tampa, in1959, and celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary in June 2010. Admiral Collins is survived by his wife, Jane Sisson; children, Carol Jane Collins Smith (Gregg), Helen Call Collins, LeRoy Collins III (Mary Ellen), and Edward Sisson Collins (Chaz), all of Tampa; and eight grandchildren.He is also survived by his siblings, Jane Collins Aurell (John), Tallahassee; Mary Call Collins Proctor (Palmer), Tallahassee; and Sarah Darby Collins, Miami, and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was be held at St. Andrews Episcopal Church on Monday, Aug. 2, at 11 am. The family will receive guests in the Parish Hall prior to the service at 10 am, and immediately following the service at the Tampa Yacht & Country Club from 12:30 pm. A graveside service will be held in Tallahassee at the family's ancestral home, The Grove, on Wednesday, Aug. 4, at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Florida Veterans Foundation, Inc., 4040 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee, FL 32399; the St. Andrew's Episcopal Church Foundation, 509 E. Twiggs St., Tampa, FL 33602; or a charity of your choice.

Published in St. Petersburg Times on August 1, 2010