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Fellow shipmates of the Lebanon / Persian Gulf Era
We all read with interest the stories or lines added to the Deck Log, wondering were long lost friends and former shipmates have gone and what their lives are like today. If you could only phone them or better yet sit back over a tall glass of mojo and talk about the day you both were on liberty in (name the place) and you can't believe you actually lived through that one.
What better way to re-live those memories then to meet with members of the USS New Jersey Veterans Association at the 17th Annual Reunion in Las Vegas, NV. Set aside some time between September 24 - 28th and join us all there to re-live days gone by and just for a little while, be that sailor on Liberty again. Could you imagine if Las Vegas had been one of our
liberty ports on cruise? Some of you would still be locked up! (Tony Peters for one)
If you are planning on attending, e-mail me and we can all hook up and share a tail and a memory with my shipmate Dirk Gunderson. We will be there on Friday; September 26 - Sunday; September 28 at The Orleans Hotel & Casino. Hope to see you there!
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Served from 1954 to 1956 on USS New Jersey in Korean War. I was in the 7th division and I was in Dog division.
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Fellow Shipmates and Associate Members of USS New Jersey Vets. Inc.
Undoubtedly you have read the Spring Issue of the
"Jersey Bounce." I will address the issue of said issue at the Reunion at Las Vegas, on 28 Sept. 03 at the Breakfast Meeting. Please be there as you will be surprised at what information you will hear. I believe you will have your mind changed over what you have read. Believe me!
Respectfully
Yours in Comradeship
Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret.
Liaison Officer, USS New Jersey Vets. Inc.
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Fellow shipmate, 22 April 2003
Have received $1,315.00 for the BOB HOPE TRIBUTE MEMORIAL due 29 May 2003.
Lets keep the donations coming in.
Vietnam $1,215.00 Korea $100.00
Read the information abou 50 messages down.
Thank You
Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret.
Liaison Officer, USS New Jersey Vets. Inc.
Vietnam Era.
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My father was a plank owner of the big J. He served till 1945. He was stationed in one of the Boiler Rooms. He has told of only a few stories to me of what life on the ship was like for the crew. Every time the ship was recommissioned; he BEAMED with great pride.
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WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY OF MY OLD SHIPMATES FROM 3RD DIVISION WEAPONS 1968/69, ESPECIALLY STEVE SENFT.
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My father served on this great battleship sometime during the early to mid 80's. He was a
Corpman. He retired about 4 years ago where he was currently stationed at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. I am a proud son to know that my father was able to serve on such a great ship and
I'm glad you kind people where able to create this web site so other people may share in the glory and awe of such a great ship.
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HERE IS JOHN BELLO'S E-MAIL ADDRESS FOR HIS OTHER SHIPMATES. I WAS ABOARD THE SAME TIME AS HIM.. HERE IT IS..
jbb62@hotmail.com I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING ALL MY R DIVISION SHIPMATES AT LAS VEGAS.. ANY OTHERS THAT MAY REMEMBER ME FROM 1953 TO 1955 I AM LISTED IN THE 1953 CRUISE BOOK AS A LATE ARRIVALS I WAS LISTED IN THE 7TH DIVISION AND LATER
TRANSFERRED TO ROGER DIVISION... THE MIGHTY J WAS A GOOD SHIP TO BE ON
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looking for my old shipmate James Madon
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My E-mail address for John Bello doesn't seem to work any more. Can anyone get me the proper address?
We were shipmates during the second Korean cruise.
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My e-mail address is usnavyph@aol.com
Please post it so anyone can e-mail
>if they want to. I served on the Jersey from 1986-1990. Also send me information on where and when the reunion is going to be so I can have my
wife make reservations for me. I'm currently in the desert right now fighting Iraqi's.
I'm deployed on the ground with combat camera group pacific. Take care
shipmates.
Kevin Tierney
>1st and X-3 Divisions
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I was an ET during 1946 and 1947. Did the midshipman cruise to Norway and England. Those
were fine days!
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Fellow USS New Jersey Ship Mates,
For the BOB HOPE TRIBUTE MEMORIAL - TAFFY III, to be built at the Harbor Dr. foot of Broadway, Fleet Landing San Diego, CA. where the liberty boats used to debark and embark sailors/ marines for /from liberty.
The following amount has been collected so far, from
Vietnam and Korea eras.
$1,065.00 Keep the donations coming in, thank you.
You need to read the Deck Log for the information.
Thank You
Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret.
Liaison Officer
USS New Jersey Vets. Inc.
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USS New Jersey Sailors,
The following amount has been collected so far for the BOB HOPE TRIBUTE MEMORIAL to be built at San Diego, CA. Broadway Fleet Landing (Where all the Liberty Boats arrived and departed. Remember!)
Vietnam $965.00
Korea
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I am part of the last crew of the BIG "J", I would like to hear from some of my old shipmates out there. I was part of 2nd
Div. (Second to none) I was on board from 1987 to Decom. Remember the old Jerseyman
pamphlet that we found in the angle irons and on the cover The Great White Fleet was on there.
"Fair Winds an Following Seas" to all our Brothers out there.
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For those that have served before me on the mighty Dreadnought I am honored to be among you. I served for over a year at the end of the 80's to the decommissioning in FEB of 91'. I am proud to have been able to be one of the few to be called a BATTLESHIP SAILOR. I am grateful to have had the chance to serve on her as well. I was in the FA division of secondary battery. I am currently on shore duty in the Great Lakes area. Thank you all for the memories and pictures of a great ship.
FCC (SW) Russell Seymour
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Fellow Vietnam Shipmates, Ref: TAFFY III, Bob Hope Tribute Memorial Donations,
I have received e-mail stating that some cannot afford the $100.00. I'm not placing any amount on what you would like to donate. If you have
construed that is what I meant, I apologize for not asking clearer. Your name will be submitted as a
contributor VIETNAM VET. USS NEW JERSEY BB-62 no matter what you donate. Please accept my
apology
on this matter. Please read the article in DECK LOG about the program.
Thank You,
Resp.
Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret. #2 Fireroom, 67-69
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Served onboard Big J from March 1985 to Sep 1987, A Division Machine Shop EA09. Retired as MRCS in 1998. Live in Poquoson, Va. MR1 Scott Miller also lives here in Poquoson, he retired in 2001. I now work for a defense contractor. Lots of great guys and memories, EN2 Payne, EN2 Waclawski, MR2 Miller, MM1 McGowan, EN2 Franklin, MM2 Black, MR3 Skelton, MR2 Stansbury, and who can forget BT3 "Uncle Pervy" Schisler and the crew in the 1st Class Mess. Do any A gangers remember "Big Chief Gopher Head"? EN2 Franklin and the "Big Nut"? "Johnny Rambo"? Drop me a line anytime.
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This is my new "E" mail address....I was a plankowner from April
1943/Oct1945..and was recalled back into the navy in Jan 1951/Feb1952,and served on the aircraft carrier
"ANTIETUN" in the Korean conflict
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I served on the Jersey in the 3rd div. from May 20.. 1943 until my discharge in
Oct 1945..and was proud to have been a crew member..
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Vietnam Vets.
So far there are 6 of us with $495.00 contributing to the TAFFYIII, Bob Hope Memorial to be built in San Diego, CA. near the waterfront. You can read the article in the DECK LOG about 34 clicks down.
The date for submission is 29 May 2003. I'm hoping that more of you Vietnam Vets that were on the ship Dec. 25 1968 that saw him would be more in
response. How about it shipmates, what say you?
Thank You,
Larry "ski" Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret/ #2 Fireroom 1967-69
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3/25/03
I was admiring a model of the BIG J given to me by a old friend (a wannabe navy pilot, but due to eye problems wasn't able to). Anyway I decided to look up any information I could find on the Internet re: BB-62. Great find, more than I thought was out there.
I served on the Big "J" from pre-com school 1967 San Diego through
Philadelphia, (Remember the mountain of sea bags on the pier in Philly and the time it took to find mine.) Through the Panama Canal to Long Beach our HOME Port and then to Viet Nam, and all ports in between.
I was discharged in Bremerton just prior to the decommissioning. What a fine Lady she is, a great symbol of Freedom.
Robert Foster MM3, Main Control, #3 Engine Rm., Main Control 1967 / 1969
Hood River, Or
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MY YEARS ON THE USS NEW JERSEY WERE BY FAR THE MOST ENJOYABLE OF THE 12 YRS I WAS IN. I TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN THE FACT THAT I WAS PART OF THE DECOM CREW FOR THE BIG LADY. MAY SHE REST IN PEACE AND STAND READY FOR ANOTHER CALL FOR FIREPOWER FOR FREEDOM
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ATTENTION 1987-1990 Crewmen
I'm looking for a Patric(k) Gall / Coll, R-DIV.
e-maill chelseas1ox@aol.com. YOUR E-Mail does not work. Imperitive you contact me.
Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret.
Liaison Officer
USS New Jersey Vets. Inc. kalskibb62@aol.com
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LOOKING FOR ROBERT SHEPARD NICK NAME "SHEP" WAS ON THE JERSEY IN
68. CAME FROM NEW YORK. WAS IN MY HUSBANDS DIV."OS"
LOOKING TO CONTACT HIM FOR MANY YEARS. LAST SEEN ON BOARD THE JERSEY IN CALIFORNIA.
ANY INFO WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. WANT TO LET HIM KNOW ABOUT BOB AND HIS OTHER SHIPMATES.
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After receiving helpful advice from several different people, I'm re-posting some info (as well as additional info) about my grandfather, who served aboard the New Jersey early in his career with the Navy. I am almost sure he was among the first crew when she was commissioned in the early/mid 1940s.
His name was James Ralph Wenstrom, married to Shirley Weikle in 1949. I don't know where he lived prior to enlisting in the Navy, but I am almost certain it was Illinois. The only other ship that I know of that he served aboard was the Lynde B, McCormick and I believe that was the ship he retired from, though, I'm sure I'm wrong in that. I have very little information about my grandfather and, as he's passed away, I have nobody to ask. I am looking for anyone who may have served with him, remembers him in anyway and who would be willing to share stories with me about him or the time frame. I do know he was on a ship prior to the New Jersey (could have been two ships as I've heard the ship(s) he was on prior to the New Jersey sank in the North Atlantic). He enlisted in 1942, though I'm unaware of a month or day, and he was 17-18 years of age at that point. He retired in 1971 (according to his death certificate, though I'd also heard he retired Nov. 1978).
Thank you in advance for any information any of you might be able to provide me!!
Sincerely, Robin Castor....granddaughter of James Wenstrom
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I think your website is awesome! My grandfather served during the Korean Conflict, as a firefighter on the New Jersey, his name was Richard Kenneth Gardner, Jr. If anyone out there knew him please contact me, I would like to hear from you. He passed away in 1996, and I want to find out what he was like when he was younger.
Thank you
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I would like to know if anyone that served aboard the USS New Jersey has a log of personnel that served at that time. I would like to know what division my brother was in so I can go to the picture of that division he was in. His name was Edward J. O'Neil and was a yeoman third class
and served from commissioning to 1946. My email addresses are econeil@msn.com
and oneilec@webtv.net Thank you Robert L. O'Neil. My brother died in September of 1985.
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I need to know which rating is responsible for polishing the ship's bell on an active vessel, for a project with which I'm involved. Please send responses to the above address.
- Name: Jack Riley, FT1stClass/ FTCPO. 81-84
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Looking for Ken Clute, FM Div. and Herb Adrus, Fm Div.1981-1984. If anyone knows there whereabouts please have them
contact me
FTCPO Jack Riley 1981-1984
346 Spruce St.
Chula Vista, CA. 91911
619-476-9477
Sorry I do not have a computer yet.
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I have been a member of the USS New Jersey Veteran's Inc. for four years and I have read a lot of the e-mails. I would like to hear from crew members of the 7th div. from the years 1953 and 1954. At this time
I am looking forward to the reunion in Las Vegas in September. I do hope that a lot of the members from the second cruise to Korea will attend attend the reunion. Send me some e-mails and
I will e-mail back to you. My e-mail address is billhix@cox.com
.
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Hi, again! I should probably clarify that my grandpa Wenstrom was on the BB-26, not the BB-16. Sorry if anyone was confused :)
Robin
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Hi all! I'm the granddaughter of a man who served when the New Jersey was first commissioned (am just finding this out!). I don't know how long he served or even what his rank was at the time. His name was James Wenstrom. If anybody ever served with him, please e-mail me. He passed away before I had a chance to hear any of his stories. I would love to get in contact with anyone who served with him. Thank you so much :) Robin
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I am hoping to see some of my shipmates from R division in Las Vegas this Sept.. I have my room locked in made
reserverations tonight.. Hope to see you their.. Samuel Flener
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I wanted to tell everyone that this was my first Command when I joined the Navy in 1984. As a kid you always built the models of the Battleship so finally
getting stationed on one was a dream come true. Now after 19 years in the Navy I still
look back on the days onboard the USS New Jersey and proud I was to have the opportunity to serve in an era that will live on forever. I will never forget those days even as an engineer (Boiler Tech) and all the hard work it was to keep the old lady going in Fireroon #3.
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I received the Memory Book for the 2002 reunion last week in the mail. It was quite a disappointment both in content and QUALITY. If this is the best the organization can do, then we need some major help. Should this company be chosen again for reunion books, I won't be on the purchasing list. What a sad way to remember an otherwise wonderful experience.
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I see I'm the first OZ Div entry. I'm proud to be the first one, and I highly encourage all those '80s and '90s EWs to get in contact with me! I'm looking for Craig "Boot" Barreuther and John "Bing" Bingham in particular. I found Tom Karnak! (But not if he owes you money.)
Really awesome website here! I'm joining just to get my ring! D. Tracy Lane, EW1,USN (Ret.) - Former OZ Div. LPO/Acting LCPO (and sometimes Divo)
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looking for guys who served from 1952--56 in the engineering dept at that time. m and b div
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During the 2nd Korean cruise, we had a helicopter on the fantail with the words "Jersey Bounce" painted on the side. There was also the designation, UP 21. Does anyone out there know what the UP stood for?
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I remember a story of an aircraft carrier being built from the hull of a Iowa class battleship.
12 June 1942 plans were drawn up to do this but were scraped. It would have looked like the Essex.
Just think if it had happened which battleship would not have been built. (BB63 ? ) and which battleship would have had the japan surrender (BB62 ? ) whoa that hurt my brain one piece of paper could have changed history. To see this conversion go to
www.history.navy.navy/photos/usnshtp/bb61cl-d.htm
more later John Hagen MMC(SW)RET 1989-1991
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The attached link is to a diagram of the New Jersey that appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer. It's a pdf file that can be viewed with "Adobe Reader". This can be printed on a large format color plotter. Some print shops can plot it. Architectural and Engineering firms can also plot this if they have a color plotter
http://inquirer.philly.com/specials/2002/bigj/BIGJ05.pdf
Enjoy, Ding ('67-'69)
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My mother states that my uncle served on the USS New Jersey during WWII. His name was Robert M. Sanders. Does anyone remember him? Thank you. Tom Bouslog
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I remember printing and completing a membership form, but it must've been misplace. I'd like to join, but want to ensure the info gets to the right place this time. Please send info to my email address and I'll forward all appropriate paperwork. PH1 Kevin Tierney and I are crewmembers and would like to attend the next reunion in Vegas, but I need to join first. Thanks for any assistance provided. Jeff
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Some of the best years of my life were spent serving with my fellow shipmates on the Jersey. So happy to see that it's now available for all to see and plan to tour the ship this summer. Best Regards, Alan Reed
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My uncle was a chaplain on the BB62. His name was Louis Kerneck Davis Lt. Commander. He took me aboard in 47 when she was back in NJ. I was 11 years old at the time and still remember eating with other officers and touring the ship. I will be visiting her this year. I am a Ham Radio Op. and looking
forward to getting in the radio shack. If anybody remembers him or could tell me how long he was on the NJ please e-mail me
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Was assigned to 2nd Division 1984-1987. Where is BMC McKay and any other 2nd division members from 84-87. Shane Broughten, Kenyon, MN
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I'm a historian currently working on a book about life serving aboard the USS New Jersey. I'm looking for letters home and past issues of the ships news paper for research purposes. I would also be interested in hearing any special stories you may recall. Any and all information would be encouraged. if you would like to be mentioned in a great book please contact me. Thanks you, Bob
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Really looking forward to Las Vegas. I was on the BB all of 53. Started in Electronics until it got hot, then transferred to Dental. Spent a lot of extra time playing cards with the Great Band and Bill Varhol ET. There was a guy YAG ? that removed half of his chess pieces and swamped me every time. I would like to hear from you all. Perhaps see you in September.
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Hello, My name is Tim Ross. I'm a deep sea diver at EODMU8 out here in Sigonella Sicily. I reported onboard Oct 86 to A-Gang. My first command. I'll never forget walking down the
pier in Long Beach at 9 at night and seeing this Huge ship looming out of the darkness. An undesignated fireman recruit. I left March 88 for MR A school, graduated then on to Guam. We were in the yards for about 7 months then just
a bunch of circles "SoCalOps"
It was a privilege to have cut my teeth, so to speak, on board The battlepig. I hope someday they
recommission her. My LPO was MM1 LANGDON in forward Diesel. then I was fortunate to go to the Machine Shop where MR2 Scott Miller was the
LPO. Lots of memories. One of my best friends was Bill Gamble who worked in the Machine Shop too. If anyone knows where He is please have him contact me.
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Hi Old Shipmates: I rate this site a resounding 4.0
When I left the "Big J" in 1953 at pier 7 in Norfolk, VA. It was a sad day for me.
When I left her she was in 4.0 condition.
A fellow BM carved a comb which we used to comb
and straighten out the cords in our deck swabs
after we put them in the swab rack to dry.
Charlie (Jake)
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Vietnam Vets;
I'm starting a list of probable Las Vegas, NV. Reunion attendees like I did last year for New Jersey.
If you plan on going, e-mail me so I can put in Word Doc. and forward list to you.
So far I have Five going. Please include yourself, spouse or significant other
and any other guest your intend to bring. If possible tell us when you
intend to arrive and how long you can stay. Let me know, OK.
Larry K. B-Div
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Never give a snipe access to a computer. Once they figure it out they never get off. During one of my searches I found 2 pictures of the only time all four Iowa class battleships steamed together.
The date was June 7 1954 in the Virginia capes.
Photos can be found at www.history.navy.mil/photos/images/g600000/g638938c.htm
This web site has a lot of cool pictures of other ships. enjoy!!!
John Hagen MMC(SW)Ret.
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TAFFY III, BOB HOPE MEMORIAL TRIBUTE, San Diego, CA.
Vietnam ERA 68 - 69 Shipmates,
A group of W.W.II Veterans known as TAFFY III, is spearheading a lasting tribute to Bob Hope to be built in San Diego, CA. The organization's goal is to dedicate the structure on Bob's 100th Birthday on 29 May 2003, information is available at
www.hopetribute.com I propose that if we as the Vietnam Vets of USS New Jersey BB62 were fortunate to have Mr. Bob Hope on our ship during Christmas 1968, that we pool our funds together and have it mailed to me and I will present the contribution as a whole in our name as The USS New Jersey Vietnam Veterans.
Bob Hope has performed for my father, step-father,
two uncles, two cousins, one son and one nephew during their military service spanning WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf Eras. You may mail your contributions to me and I will acknowledge your name with the the Group doing the Memorial Tribute
"TAFFY III, TASK UNIT 77.4.3 (a.k.a. Taffy III)
Make Checks out to "Bank of America, TAFFY III"
Mail to;
USS New Jersey Vietnam Veterans 1968-1969
c/o Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret.
6160 Roberts Dr.
San Diego, CA. 92139.
I will post a weekly up-date on the amount of funds we contribute.
From Me, I will start us off at $100.00
Bob Hope has done a lot for us Service Men, lets do it for him.
Does anyone from the other ERAs want to donate. If so I'll be happy to be the proctor for you all and will do likewise as above in documenting same for an audit.
Resp,
Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret.
Liaison Officer, USS New Jersey Vets. Inc.
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I am searching for anyone that may have known my grandfather, Lt Cmdr Jesse B Fulton. He served on the New Jersey during Korea.
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Larry K.
Interested in locating shipmates for my father-in-law. He served during Korean War. Harry Wilson, from Louisville, KY.
Thanks,
George
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Nice to find this site. I have enjoyed.
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made a mistake on my e-mail address a few months ago. Please change it, thank you
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While cleaning out my neighbor's home (she passed away a few months ago), my wife found a knife with a sheath that has USS NEW JERSEY on one side, DICK STONE on the other and TURRET down the middle. My neighbor's husband (Sylvester (Mac)
Eagan) was on the USS New Jersey during WWII. My wife also found pictures of her husband while in the Navy. I was hopefully trying to find Mr. Stone or family to give the knife to them. If you are able to find him or his family, please feel free to contact me at the e-mail address above.
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I regret to inform the Shipmates of my father, James B. Gossett Jr., that he died December 30, 2002. He fought a long and hard battle with lung cancer. My father was the youngest man on the ship during WWII,(17) He was at the surrender at Tokyo Bay. He really enjoyed being in the association and was looking forward to a reunion, but that was not to be. He will be missed.
James B. Gossett III
U.S. Navy Seabee and Vietnam Veteran
PS We are planning on visiting the New Jersey this year.
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Larry and Ed bravo zulu on the web site page logo's look great!!! Wish I had thought of it.
MMC(SW) 1989 TO 1991 LCPO #3 ENG ROOM.
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Looking for information from anyone who knew my Father,now Deceased.
Lee Joseph Rachal, WW II, Battlestation Quad-40mm, Starboard Side, Berthing Quarters was portside three decks down. Please contact me at,
318-730-3560 or rachalthree@aol.com
Thank You,
Lee Robert Rachal
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I served on the USS New Jersey with the Marine Detachment August 1944 to Nov 1946. Ted Welchert 2909 East Devon, Tucson, AZ 85716
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To All attendees of the Sept 2002 Reunion at Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
If there were any of you taking videos at the reunion, would you make a copy for me. I will pay you for the Video tape and the shipping.
I would like to edit the tapes for a Master Tape that I can put together and maybe get more made up
for our shipmate's. I will let you know what I come up with at a later date.
My address;
6160 Roberts Dr.
San Diego, CA. 92139-1733
Resp.
Larry Kalakauskis, BTC USN Ret.
Liaison Officer.
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I am looking for 1/96 scale model that I can build for my den. does anyone have any info about this
1st div, '95-'97.
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My son gave me the latest book on The Big J. by Neil Leifer. any one who served during the vietnam war is familiar with Mr. Leifer. It's a good book full of some very good pictures and great text on the history of the ship. I recommend it highly
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My family & I toured the New Jersey in June of 2002. It's still impressive. I served in 1968-69. The ladders seem much steeper now than 32 years ago. There is so much that can't be seen yet such as my old berthing area, the engine rooms,
Broadway, etc. I did get to see some area that I could not view in '68 I hope more is open next year as we plan on going again. My son was real impressed to see live what he has only seen pictures of. C.Lee Priset
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GMG2, LEFT GUN CAPTAIN TURRET 1, VIET NAM, SERVED
FROM COMMISH TO DECOMMISH, LAST YEAR IN NAVY, SERVED
ABOARD THE THE USS EVERSOLE DD789 ,AS LEADING GUNNERSMATE
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I reported aboard the New Jersey as an FTG2 at Philly in 1968 and departed as an FTG1 at
Bremerton in 1969. I was assigned to FM Division (Main Battery Fire Control). I served on 6 other ships besides the 'Big J'; they included one Tender AD, one Heavy Cruiser CA, two Light Guided
Missile Cruisers CLG, and two Guided Missile Cruisers CG. Looking back over my 26 year career, I must say that serving aboard the Battleship New Jersey was the absolute highlight of my career. Precious few of us are so fortunate to have served on such a fine warship. I have not had the opportunity to visit the "Jersey" at Camden yet, but I hope to make it this spring.
Larry Bachman
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Looking for guys who served in '51-'54 in the boiler room and played softball - anyone who knows when the next reunion is - let me know at 8105 St. Rt. Rt. 201, New Carlisle, OH 45344.
Bernie Jameson - left fielder
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Served aboard the Big J around 84-85. If any of the old Tomahawk or CIWS guys from that time are around, drop me a line.
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Served in # 3 engine room "m" div. as throttleman,
looking for Jim Elliot, we were there 1945/46
Jim lived in New Jersey, East Orange, I haven't seen
him since discharge in Bremerton, Wa. August 1946.
I would appreciate any info on him.
Like the web site!
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Just want to take a minute or two and wish all you jersey swabs past, and those on station a very merry and peaceful
Christmas and a very happy and prosperous new year. I remember my days aboard and the ones that were the hardest were the
holidays. I was up in Camden last May and took the tour of the ship , the
memories sure come back, it was a good time in my life , I left the ship in Nov/ 56 and had not seen her til last may it was
really weird seeing her after all that time had passed. I plan to go back this
coming May as I couldn't see all that I wanted to ,not all decks were open yet. What the Alliance and all the
volunteers have done for the ship is truly something to behold, if you get the chance to go see the big J don't pass it up you will not be
disappointed.......Peace
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I was aboard the N.J. from 1952-56 was in no.1 fireroom for two years and no.2 engine room for two years. made 2 class
machinist mate before discharge. Would like to hear from of the guys I served with.
Just another comment to add to my last commentary; the big j will stay with me until the day
I die. Any chance that I got I went aboard a battle ship, the new jersey is next when
I make a trip to N.Y. I was proud to serve on her Tony Mariano
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My father was a store keeper ,he retired 1964 as skcs. He told me that he was a spotter for starboard side quad 40s was his battle station he would point out aircraft for targeting.
He was approx.18-20 years old. The war log he had was from 1943-1945.after leaving the New JERSEY HE went to
ammunition ship Shasta during the middle part of the war. Towards the end of the war he
transferred to the destroyer minesweeper Jeffers. In 1958 was transferred to refrigeration ship Reagal. 1960 was
transferred to Key West, FL as Asst. Manager of Navy comm. store until he retired in
1964. my e-mail address rachalthree@aol.com
- Name: LEE ROBERT RACHAL RACHALTHREE @AOL.COM
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My father served on her during ww2 I have his war log his name was Lee Joseph Rachal but I cannot find his pic in any of the
div. in the book. Could you please send me a crew list by div.during the
WW II war years.
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Hi Shipmates! I had the opportunity to visit the ship shortly after the exhibit opened in Camden. It was cold and rainy. She was under quite a bit of construction. The way the decks looked would have sent BMCM Knopka into convulsions!
They had the back hatch to turret 2 open. After everyone had a peek, I popped through and got an immediate
olifactory flashback. The smell had not changed!! The others in the tour were wondering what I was groaning about but I didn't care, I was home.
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Hey...any of you old dudes that remember me..1953-54. I was in T-Division. The good looking one!!! send me a note and let me know that you are still kicking....and anything else that is still in your memory.
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We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to this site! My father, Norman E. Art, served on this ship and we are so glad to be able to relay this data to him!
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Onboard from 1984 to 1988. FM and FA division. Enjoyed my time on BB-62 had a
lot of fun on WestPAC's. Most squared away ship I've ever seen.
Matt Murphy
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I enjoyed my tour on my Dads ship Sep.23 we all enjoyed seeing the awesome battleship big "J" everyone was kind and helpful. Thank You Dave Suiter
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I served on board the mighty BB-62 from Nov 89 till Decomm in Feb 91. I was the last member of the regular crew off the ship. Only the Captain and a civilian or two were left. I got the honor of holding the American Flag at the Decomm. Man what a tear filled day. I loved that ship.
I got to see the Jersey in mothballs at Bremerton, WA around 1996 or so. Man she didn't look like the ship I was so proud of. Really kind of sad the shape she was in. I hear she is doing much better now.
If any of you served with me in 89-91 in FM div please drop me a line. I would love to see what has happened to my old shipmates. Suds you out there????? :)
Regards to all her served on board.
Scott Hensiek (FC3) Aft plot Sup.
- Name: BMI SW CHARLES BROWN USN RET BB 61
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JUST TO WISH ALL MY SHIPMATES IN BB 62 HAPPY HOLIDAYS AS YOU GUYS REMEMBER A LOT OF US IOWA GUYS RODE WITH YOU OFF
BEIRUT WHICH WAS ONE THAT 24 HOUR FLIGHT FROM MISSISSIPPI TO THE MED WAS NO FUN FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS SHIPMATES BOATS
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To All USS NEW JERSEY VETS. INC. Reunion attendees that I have known over the years as your Vice-Pres, Reunion Cord. and Liaison Officer.
HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING AND AN EARLY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HANUKKAH
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Served on the Jersey from oct-52 till june-56 in the FA Div Main Battery
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I was aboard from commissioning - 1945. I left her in Tokyo Bay. Looking to hear from any shipmates that remember me. I seen a few at the last couple reunions. I am trying to find shipmate Vincent Smodic Bm2 4th Div.
Frank "Willy" Wilson BM 4th Div
e-mail: dotson@cameron.net
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Thax! for this opportunity. I just printed my membership form and will join today. BB-62 in the 53 Korean tour. Short time as an ET, then an HD. This contact was hard for me to find. I saw a man in a California airport with a '62' cap and said hi.
Looking forward to the next reunion
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I am so proud to have served on board the Jersey, and I am very thankful for the
privilege of walking her decks again. Thanks to all those who make this possible.
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shipmates, I was privileged to served aboard the BIG J from May 23, 43 to Feb. 17, 46. I was a GM3c on the 20MM midship port (8th Div). would love to hear from any 8th Div out there. Blackie
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I am editor of the Jersey Bounce and would be pleased to place LOOKING FOR notices in the newsletter. E-mail me with your info - but be sure to
include your snail mail address. Not everyone has a computer. Thank you
Oneil Leonard 7723 Legion Rd, Ventress, La. 70783
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Where can I get a copy of the freedom speech that was delivered aboard the uss new jersey in September, 2002?
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I am trying to contact an old pen friend, which we corresponded with each other for
years, then he just stopped writing. His name is Mark Bailiue (pronounced Bay Loo) he came up through the ranks and his last promotion as far as I know was Lt
Cmdr. He served on BB62 as an Engineering Officer, dates I'm not sure of,
but he was still on board when BB62 was decommissioned. I am an Australian ex Vietnam Vet (Army). Thanks: John Gray.
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Came back from US Wisconsin reunion a changed man. I am told that you are having a reunion here in Las Vegas next year. I am looking forward to help you celebrate.
Art Hogberg
USS Wisconsin BB64
1952 to 1954
- Name: Don Wilson "A" Div. Korea
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My dad served on the Destroyer USS Morey during the WW1. All I know about the ship is that it was a 4 piper(4
stacks) He was a radio operator. Can anyone tell me where I can find out more information about his ship?
Don Wilson dnwilson@knology.net
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My brother was an Army helicopter pilot in Vietnam from Nov 68 till he was
declared missing in action on 06 Feb 69.
I am trying to locate any photographs of my brother that
anyone may have took while he was on board. He flew with the 282nd Black
Cats out of Hue. The aircraft was a UH-1H that had a black cat
superimposed on a yellow circle on the front of the helicopter. Anyways, I
am looking for a New Jersey message board where I can make a posting of
anyone who may either recall this or might have some photographs. I know
it is a long shot, but nothing ventured, nothing gained. Thanks for any
help or direction you might give me.
Ron Stanley
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Dear Sir,
I am French and I have just created my publishing company (Shields Publications Ltd). I am going to print the first book I have written:
"Eastern Front June 1941-March 1943".
Another one will follow later:
"Panzer Graveyard In Hungary March-April 1945".
Among my projects I would like to publish two volumes about the naval gunfire support in WW II and Korea.
Each book (A4 format) will contain 200 pages, 200/250 pictures, several color paintings and technical drawings, numerous extracts from official reports and personal stories.
In Europe, the success of any military book depends firstly from the photos you publish. I have already made contact with several official archives to gather as much information as possible. I intend to come in USA (for at least three months) to do some deep research but I would like to do more as I did with my first book. I contacted several German veterans in order to get accounts, stories, anecdotes and especially private pictures from their wartime experiences. For instance, I obtained some very interesting pictures from the Battle of Kharkov on
February/March 1943.
Would any veteran of the USS New Jersey agree to also give me some assistance with the people, or associations they know in order to find some materials about the Battleship New Jersey?
Hoping to hear at your convenience, I am
Sincerely
Christian Meunier
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I got to visit the New Jersey in 1988 in Sydney Australia. It was there for Australia's
Bicentennial. It was such a great ship. I took several pictures of Her in Sydney. I am really enjoying this site and getting Her History. Great Job. Randall Burt- New York State.
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1946 Shipmates, Hello from J.E.ABERCROMBIE, Signalmen
I'm trying to locate LEONARD WESENBERG, Cook-S-Div.
We were on board the first six months of 1946 then were transferred to C.Bee"s while ship was at Guam,
Marianna's Island. Leonard was from Madison, Wisconsin.
I was a /in Signal Bridge Division.
Anyone knowing of his whereabouts or what happened to him, please contact me: Thank You,
J.E. ABERCROMBIE, 2021 Challeux Jar West, Jacksonville, FL. 32225,,,,,904-641-2426
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On October 23, 1983, 241 Marines and Sailors were killed in a suicide truck-bombing of the Marine Barracks at the Beirut
International Airport. Mike Gorchinski had gone ashore the night before to fix the Marines radar and was later buried at sea off the California coast with his wife Judy present. 19 years ago today. Let us never forget!
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Notice to all hands,
Henry Dupree, San Diego, Calif.
Battleship Association, Passed away 17 Oct. 2002
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To all New Jersey Vets. Inc.
I'm still ordering the USS NEW JERSEY BB-62 CLASS
RINGS. IF YOU WANT ONE MAIL IN YOUR ORDER FORM FROM THIS WEB SITE.
THANK YOU'
Larry K.
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Just a visiting sailor from the USS Wisconsin BB-64. I am honored to have been aboard all four Iowa Class BB's. Good luck and "May The Wind Always Be At Your Back"
Art
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For those of you who were asking about the videos that were shown at the reunion
I have been collecting them for about the last 10 years. but good news two of the tapes that were shown but did not belong to me can be purchased on line at
njn.net. The tapes are the history of the New Jersey and the Return of the New
Jersey. You can buy them in a set or separate. Click on "store" then click on
"catalog". Oh, one more thing, vote for Houston Tx for the next reunion we have NASA, the USS TEXAS,
Galveston and much more plus my butt won't be sore from the long drive and I don't have to hire a dog sitter.
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Hey Vietnam Vets,
So far I've only gotten three want's for the window
decals, and Frank LaRosa only has 65 requests for Embroidered Jacket patches. Lets get on the ball and get those requests, money orders into me for the decals and e-mail Frank LaRosa about your desires for the
Embroidered Jacket Patches at nighthawk-52@Webtv.net
They are the Logo of ours during Nam.
Thank You
Larry K. BT1- 67-69 #2 Fireroom
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I served on the USS New Jersey I got off in 1988 after spending 1 1/2 years aboard. My rate @ departure HT3, I have been to places on her most don't even know are there. I was
plagued with the task of Valve Maintenance Petty Officer. This task involved finding, doing
maintenance, ensuring proper operation of all valves relating to ballast voids, also after valves were found and were
operable I had to make and or add them to the charts. PS. is she still in Bremerton, Washington?
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hi enjoyed your web site. I was on the New Jersey from 1956 to 1957. I was in the 1st
div. Left it in New Jersey and went on the Wisconsin.
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Greetings shipmates! This is an excellent site; I served on 'Big NJ' ("Heavy Hitter") from 9/84
through 6/88 in FM division. I'm sorry I didn't even hear about the reunion, but that's what happens if you don't get involved.
-sg ..."Firecontrolmen Forever!!!"
- Name: Hank Strub (1968-69 - X Division)
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To all Vietnam "X" Division who attended the 2002 reunion - I was so glad to see each and every one of you guys - too bad we didn't have time or place to all get together but that is hopefully going to happen - keep in touch and we'll see what can happen. Hopefully, we can track down more of the old gang and get them aboard. Although our spaces are no longer what we remembered, seeing and being aboard the ship: priceless.
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VIETNAM VETS, Reunion 2002, If you attended the reunion at Cherry Hill and I missed you I apologize. I had a listing of 68 Men that were there but I was told there was 74 of us. Would you please e-mail me your name address division wife's name phone# If I didn't get you on my roster. Thank You All that showed up, It meant a lot to me to get this many after trying for 11 years since 1991 to get more of us. It makes it all the more merrier and worth the effort. You that were there showed our skipper,
J. Edward Snyder, Radm
USN Ret. how much he was admired during our term together 1967-69, Some one said that we would have gone to hell for him and I guess it showed at the reunion.
The skipper wanted me to relay to you all how much he appreciated the welcome and praise you all showed him. From him to you all "Thank You Very Much for making this his Happiest Rememberance of ya'll and the Grand Ole Lady" Again Thank you from me also.
Resp.
Yours in Comradeship
Larry (BT1-Ski.) Kalakauskis #2 Fireroom 1967-69
Liaison Officer, USS New Jersey Vets. Inc.
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Fellow shipmates,
Taking ring orders now, get order form on web site. mail money orders or checks to me (Prefer money
orders) when checks clear then I will order so to save time send money order.
ALSO any one that sent me e-mail about finding out friends please return messages to me at
kalskibb62@aol.com My printer did not work right when I took your information.
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''VIETNAM VETS'' I have two vinyl material window / bumper stickers of the VIETNAM ERA SHIP's LOGO.
One is a peal off inside window sticker and the other is an outside window or bumper sticker. They are 4" Dia. with the "WEST PAC 1968 -69 CRUISE" at the top section and "VIETNAM WAR VETERAN" at the bottom section.
They can be purchased from me for $5.50 a set (one of each). Send me a check or money order made out to me Larry Kalakauskis for $5.50 and I will mail you the set A.S.A.P.. If you want more sets you can order them, just increase the price per set. After Hank Strub III and I receive our cash outlay then all the proceeds will go to the organization.
USS NEW JERSEY VETS. INC.
Remember all transactions will go thru me at this time. You may purchase as many sets as you like.
Respectfully,
Larry Kalakauskis, BT1-1967-69 #2 Fireroom.
Mail Check or money order to;
Larry Kalakauskis
6160 Roberts Dr.
San Diego, CA. 92139
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