![[Americas Finest - USS Coral Sea]](http://www.usscoralsea.net/images/usf26.gif)
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Served aboard her with VA-153 Blue tailed flies on her Nam cruise 64 to 65. I was on and off her during a 4 year tour with VA-153. Tonight I couldnt sleep and got on my computer and looked for pictures of her. I found the memorial sight and it brought tears to my eyes to see how she ended up. I did 24 yrs in the Navy and the ones spent on Coral Sea with VA-153 are my most memorable. Why couldn't she had been a museum like Intrepid ?? Thank you Navy for thre memories. LDM Larry Mumaw AMH-1 USN(ret) <desertdweller57@yahoo/com> - Sunday, December 29, 2002 at 02:16:31 (PST) Howdy all you Coral Maru shipmates and airdales! I was in VA-196, Westpac 81' and World cruise 83'. I am currently in the reserves in cargo handling, waiting for call-up. I am interested in finding Reubin Todd Smith, who was in 196 during this time period. Anyway, this is a great site. I will keep checking in for former Milestones that may have passed thru. Go Navy!! Let us finally take care of saddam. Hey Fellas, God Bless. Rick Hunter, VA-196 1980-84 Rick Hunter <beyondtheblue@msn.com> - Sunday, December 29, 2002 at 01:37:52 (PST) Just checking in again!! Served 1976 to 1980, Air Dept. V-2 Div., A/G crew. Still looking for alot of my old shipmates. Anybody heard from Bill Brinker, Chaz, Termite, Ski, Tut, Wimp, Sledge, Gary(Rosey)Rossignol, Mike Sanko, Zane Hackney???? Let me know. Thanks. Bill Hudson <billhudson59@msn.com> - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 18:34:08 (PST) Oops.(Sr moment) It's not a dash. It's an underline in the middle. Old email was grandpaj14@yahoo.com Still ng. Underline should be between dod and 410. Tom Jackson <dod_410@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 18:01:32 (PST) oops.(Sr moment) It's not a dash. It's an underline in the middle. old email was grandpaj14@yahoo.com Tom Jackson <dod_410@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 17:59:02 (PST) I forgot to mention his name was Harold Hilliard. James Hilliard <jhkh819@sherbtel.net> - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 11:55:19 (PST) My dad was on the coral sea from 1964-65 to June 22 1970. All I know is that he loaded the bombs on the planes. He told me alot of memories about the guys and the times out at sea. I would like to hear from anyone that might remember him. He passed away May 1,1998 from a heart attack. I remember him talking about a guy that was nicknamed "ears" I also know he was with the fire fighting squad. If anyone remembers him could you please e-mail me with any stories of him. He said nothing but good about everyone that was on her with him.. Thank you for letting me post this in his memory.. James Hilliard <jhkh819@sherbtel.net> - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 10:09:17 (PST) onboard 1976-1980 A Division Joe McCoole PeeWee <ssmccoo@hotmail.com> - Thursday, December 26, 2002 at 23:14:44 (PST) 12-26-02 This is my correct e-mail address. I was onboard 1976-1980.Machinery repairman. A-Division Joe McCoole ( PeeWee) <ssmccoo@hotmail.com> - Thursday, December 26, 2002 at 22:41:41 (PST) Changed my email address. (too much bulk mail) Was grandpaj14@yahoo.com Keep up the great work. Tom Jackson <dod-410@yahoo.com> - Thursday, December 26, 2002 at 16:46:14 (PST) Ahoy Shipmates! F Div. I sailed with you into the med in 1949. Started out in V-1 Div, then a bit of mess cook'en, then made many friends in F Div. Have pics of operations, crews in quarters, some liberty, etc. I can be e-mailed at pro.nurse@verizon.net B & W pics. I would be happy to share these pics with the Web Master for this site. Bill Van Patten Jr. Bill Van Patten Jr. <pro.nurse@verizon.net> - Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at 17:27:08 (PST) What's up Joe !!! Yeah I remember 102 days at Gonzo Station and then 167 more of brigntime in of all places,,,,, PI.. Amazing what 2 beers will do after all the time..... We had some snuck in to the head on base during working party and Wow the brig was FUN that day.... Steve H. --- I hate to say it but you know that sounds like a Russ Fuller Job !!! No wonder he could not look me in the eye when I returned to Bremerton on the Sacremento (AOE-1). I thought he just felt guilty about doing Penny (the Ex),,, but then who didn't,, do her that is.... I knew that marriage was over when we got in to a fight and I told her "Of course I love you ,Your the uglyest women I've ever been with so it must be LOVE"... Whoops,,, I was young... E-Me Later all, Brian Walker MMFA,MMFN,MMFA,MMFR,MMFN & out Brian Walker (goggles) <bmw226@mchsi.com> - Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 20:40:43 (PST) Machinist Mate FM Onboard 76-80 102 days at sea without liberty Who remembers That. Would like to hear from old shipmates! Joe Joe McCoole <ssncloo@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 10:54:05 (PST) I WAS ON THE CORAL SEA FROM FEB 84 TO JULY 87, AND HAVE QUITE A FEW PICS OF HER AND WHILE IN DRY DOCK AFTER THE 85 COLLISION. STILL HAVE CLOCKS MUGS ETC.SERVED IN BRAVO1 ENGINEERING DEPT AND THE OIL LAB. VINCE BONDERCZUK <BONDOVIN@BELLSOUTH.NET> - Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 07:54:50 (PST) Went aboard by highline from USS GRAFIUS in March 1966. Was caught by the involuntary extension later that year and served onboard until July 1966 when I reenlisted to get duty in Okinawa. Finally retired in March 1987 with almost 24 years. I think you missed a nickname during the time I was onboard she had a pair of dice painted on the superstructure and was called the "Pairadice". I remember some good times and a few bad one's but all in all she is fondly remembered by me. Keep up the good work. James E. Stoutt <pn1jim@cox.net> - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 21:42:01 (PST) Miss the old ship. I was on during the 79-80 West-pac. Those were the days. Miss all my navy buddies. Worked in the #1 engine room (M-1 div.) MM3 Jerry D. Jasman <jdjasman@odessaoffice.com> - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 19:19:26 (PST) 1949 Med cruise, we lost several crewman due to accidents. Who were they and how did the accident occour? Thank you William S. Van Patten Jr. <pro.nurse@verizon.net> - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 18:19:50 (PST) Oh my gosh!Has it been a year already?Just want to wish all CoSea crew members and their families a very merry christmas and a warm and prosperous new year. T.Barry.....m-2 div 82-85 Thomas J Barry (mmfn) <tbarry39@comcast.net> - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 16:11:08 (PST) Wishing everyone in the 1948-52 F Division a very happy holiday season! Is anyone out there? Charley Flechner <sflechner@hotmail.com> - Sunday, December 22, 2002 at 17:38:07 (PST) Real glad to see this web site... EDWARD LUNDIN <edkay59@aol.com> - Sunday, December 22, 2002 at 12:22:39 (PST) I didn't see very many names I Know from the late '40's to 1953, the years I lived aboard the USS Coral Sea, as an IC electrician. I know some are still alive, as I rec'd Christmas cards from McCurdy,VanWhy, Neuer,Doernbach, Kunes, and Thornton. Merry Christmas to all, from a computer "illiterate", who's wife usually does this for me. Bill Craig Bill Craig <Cvb43Bill@aol.com> - Friday, December 20, 2002 at 20:33:25 (PST) Served aboard 1955-1956 Fire Control Div. Harry Ferm <hferm@msn.com> - Friday, December 20, 2002 at 17:58:21 (PST) Very nice web site, wish there were more of 1952-1955.Sorry I did not take more pictures David Premo <premos@localnet.com> - Friday, December 20, 2002 at 10:57:24 (PST) Served aboard Coral Sea from Jan 1954 thru June 1956 in Fox Div. Member of USS Coral Sea Assn. since 1986. My son served aboard in the early 80's in VA27. A Bravo Zulu on this site. Jim Williamson FT3 <jim-ginny-will@worldnet.att.net> - Thursday, December 19, 2002 at 19:36:08 (PST) I served on board from 1954-1955. V-1 Division ... this was my first and most memorable Navy ship experience, perhaps having the best naval officers and crew on board in the Sixth Fleet at that time. The liberty in the Med was absolutely fantastic and I'd do it all over again ... changing nothing except to do it all at least twice as much as before! John F. Mastromoro <cva43@capital.net> - Thursday, December 19, 2002 at 19:26:30 (PST) Trying to locate anyone that may have been onboard the Coral Sea in Aug, 1964. I'm researching a Navy Pilot, LCDR Gates, that was KIA somewhere around Vietnam. His records show USS Coral Sea, VA-25. But everything I've found so far shows that the Coral Sea didn't deploy until Dec/64, and that VA-25 was not part of the ship back then. Any info/facts would be helpful. Pls email me. Bruce Swander <bruceswander@hotmail.com> - Thursday, December 19, 2002 at 07:59:55 (PST) m-1 div billy jeter <b_jeter@budweiser.com> - Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 20:19:17 (PST) Although I never served aboard nor flew with the air wing, it was great to view the proud Coral Sea and recall my days on other "bird farms". A great tribute to the carrier and those who so proudly served aboard. "Pappy" CAPT J. W. Mehrmann USN (Ret) - Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 18:05:15 (PST) Served aboard Jan 1955-Oct 1956 Quartermaster Nav.Div.Hometown Charlotte N.C. Reside in Annapolis Md John T. Taylor <JohnandBabsTay@aol.com> - Monday, December 16, 2002 at 14:27:09 (PST) I Served onboard from 82-89. R/DC Divisions FLYING SQUAD Has anyone heard from Ron Bunner,Mike MORRIS,Pat Carley,or any of the other guys? Hope to hear from old shipmates. Later,Mike Brambo Bramblett Mike Bramblett <miketheman39@msn.com> - Saturday, December 14, 2002 at 23:54:24 (PST) Served on the best flat top in the fleet from 1965 until 1968. Patrick Girven <jpgirven@accessbee.com> - Saturday, December 14, 2002 at 16:51:56 (PST) I would like to amend my first comments from a few days ago after spending the next couple of days voratiously pouring over this sight, I have to say that it is not only great but absolutley fantastic. My thanks to you Bob for making this available. I have always known I left a piece of me on this home of ours called the Coral Sea. I felt I cheated myself when I took the opportunity to leave her 30 days early, but then I would have cheated myself out of the best son a dad could ask for that I have today. Looking at the scrapping photos brings back so many memories. I was on the voids crew in bremerton in 78,I have probably been too or seen nearly every near foot of her (except the mystical name on the keel).I started out in V-2 then to IM-2 then to V-1 and back to IM-2. I nearly cried seeing her all cut up and in pieces can't somebody put her back together again? She was raped I tell you! All kidding aside, we all spent our most formiddable years bangin our heads knockin our knees, smells that we will never forget, Though some may disagree the best damn food in the world, which brings us to all the bitchn and complaining, so now it all culminates into a sense of sorrow, and closure. If any body remembers me please give me a call. I was in V-2 (cats 1 & 3)from 77-79, with an intrem stay in vents and voids while drydocked,then V-1 for the 79-80 west-pac, and the IM-2 sheetmetal shop 80-81 until discharge. over n out Mike Smalley <mike.smalley@alaskaair.com> - Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 11:20:08 (PST) Served on board from 1965 until 1969 I was in s3,2nd,and G divs. Andy FUD Thorn <athorn@pa.net> - Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 08:46:42 (PST) Served on the "Ageless Warrior" from 83 to 86 in the V-1 division. Looking for some other "yellow shirts" out there. Fly2, getting dried off by A-6 exhaust and working 16 on and 8 off during the Libya days... Naples = armpit of the world!!! Give me a holler if your out there V-I crew.... Tom Goodwin <tom@vbh-inc.com> - Tuesday, December 10, 2002 at 12:37:47 (PST) "She" doesn't have personality or memory but "she" was, and is, a repository of the histories of the men who served on her. We asked, and her engine rooms responded when we needed to go - "She" was our home. The crew that each of us served with are what made "her" our lady. I love the idea of treading "her" decks one more time, with the caveat that I could leave when it got tiresome - a WESTPAC or MED cruise was fun and needed for our country but I was damned glad to get home. Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Monday, December 09, 2002 at 21:30:41 (PST) great site brings back alot of memories (77-81) mike smalley <mike.smalley@alaskaair.com> - Monday, December 09, 2002 at 14:47:09 (PST) I was in #1 enging room John R Gahn <jrgahn@aol.com> - Sunday, December 08, 2002 at 20:08:42 (PST) Merry Christmas to all.Made the 1951 and 1952 summer med cruises pls the 1952 spring Gitmo shakedown. Sure enjoyed mey times aboard. FREDERICK B. KNOESEL CS3,VF44 <fknoesel@wcsonline.net> - Saturday, December 07, 2002 at 12:43:09 (PST) I love your page but i don't see much from 1949 i know we're a bunch of old farts but i would like to read more from people on the 1949 MED. cruise take care Denver (Denny) Anderson Denver Anderson - Saturday, December 07, 2002 at 11:58:29 (PST) Excellent site Pictures of scrapping ruinedmind set of old memories..Have to agree C V A 43 was best years of life.Whatt a way to grow into manhood.Went to recom school then to Bremerton to put her back on line.. Was in OIL SHACK 1960-May 1961.Even the worst days were great.Had excellenttrip to west pac. Amnow living in Alaska. Been here 22yrs.Coral Sea was a great Lady &agood ride.. Have onlyexcellent memories oftime served aboard and with her.Im RED BECK was from Oregon.. Red beck <redbek60@bristolbay.com> - Saturday, December 07, 2002 at 05:26:22 (PST) 78 to 82 M2 Div. any old shipmates feel free to email me Keith Huard <kmkc253@aol.com> - Friday, December 06, 2002 at 08:11:38 (PST) Well hello to all you 2Baker boiler boys, I can't believe none of you guys are on the internet, especially Gene Wiesbeck, Gene, you always struck me as the computer type, You other guys, Donnie Boswinkle, Pat Scollan, Jim "Smitty" Smith from Texas who taught me all about Phillipino cuisine, Bobby Patten who taught me about San Magoo, Felipe, Dave "Fatcat" Vorheese, And a good friend Dennis Macombsus{SP} Who thought I wronged him, and I hope he knows by now I Did'nt. To LPO Bob Parks, the best topwatch ever who thrilled us with the songs of the Platters and was a great bowler, he taught me all I knew, him and Jonny Espiritu, Jonny also taught me to sing like a rock and roller and to play rythmn Guitar pretty well, By the way Jonny I got a lot better, mentored a local and taught him to read music, 2 years ago he released an excellent local CD. So come on you guys, let me hear from you, my health is'nt good, it would mean the world to me to hear from any of you. Miss you guys, "COYOTE" Wiley "Coyote" <Harms 223 @ hotmail> - Thursday, December 05, 2002 at 17:19:11 (PST) Great Web site, Nucleus crew, recommissioning crew 1959-61. Oil King B-Div. Great ship, Great times, damn I was young. Best of luck to all old sea-dogs. Jim Kelso Jim Kelso <jkelso@uci.net> - Thursday, December 05, 2002 at 16:38:08 (PST) served onboard from 81 thru 85 have cruise books also. where is she now? Retired in 1997. Bryan Z. Yoder <vondabryan@wmconnect.com> - Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 18:57:19 (PST) This is an amazing web site! I served as an AQ with VF-161 in 1969 and 1970 when we went to Sydney. George Schmidt <twoschmidts@peoplepc.com> - Tuesday, December 03, 2002 at 07:13:54 (PST) Served aboard the USS Coral Sea, CVA 43, from September, 1959 (Re-commissioning Nucleus Crew), until April, 1963. “B” Division, Water & Oil Testing Lab (Oil Shack). John Harper <john@johnharper.com> - Tuesday, December 03, 2002 at 06:34:10 (PST) Served on Coral Sea 1962 -1964 and I attended the reunion in Branson this year. Met up with a couple of guys I knew from that time, enjoyed conversations and most of my memories of that era are close to theirs. It was only my second reunion so I was not (still don't understand) aware of the "political animosities" that can charge/change a fraternal organization such as ours. Haven't seen a lot of comments from others who were there so is this name-calling and in-fighting the norm? Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Monday, December 02, 2002 at 21:47:52 (PST) 1985 to 1988 OS Glen Hancock I love the web site.Only crew members I know call at 662-773-7712 Glen Hancock - Monday, December 02, 2002 at 21:03:55 (PST) 1982 to 1987 OS DIV. Loved all you guys. I sometimes miss all the bull shit,but not often.Any if anyone I know would like would like to call I'am in the book,JXN MS OS Jeffrey T Powell <Jeffinms@netzero.net> - Monday, December 02, 2002 at 20:55:35 (PST) Served aboard the 'Great Lady' on 1955 Med cruise. AT3 in VC-12 Squadron (AD'4s/Guppies/Early Warning) out of Quonset Point, RI. As with most others, I recall more of the good times; liberty, tours, girls, the not so good beer, etc., and my good buddies, Jim Lundstrom and Mike Connor. WOW!!! Could they, make that, could WE put it away back then. Did enjoy working and viewing flight ops and flying off and tail hooking back aboard. Its a shame they couldn't/wouldn't preserve the'Lady'. 'She' was the only ship I served aboard but I can't imagine there was any finer. I found out too late about her eventual demise. I would have loved to visit and board 'Her' once again. Smooth sailing and God Bless. Max Presnal <starmaxp@cs.com> - Saturday, November 30, 2002 at 09:07:28 (PST) I was stationed on board from Sept 1976 to June 1980 in the S-5 Division which at that time was the Officers Mess and Wardroom. I commented a few times while onboard that one day they would scrap the old girl and sell her to a razor blade factory. And I would most likely cut my throat from a razor blade made from her, but I'm still here ... no cut throat! Funny thing is I really miss that part of my life ... San Francisco's Own, you will always be remembered by this swabby. Keith Kenyon <kckenyon@aol.com> - Saturday, November 30, 2002 at 06:46:25 (PST) Hey to all, I served onboard from 84 - 87. A-Ganger forward and aft emergency diesels. It's hard to remember the names, but I remember alot of good times. Drop me a line if you remember... Joel Carranza <joel.carranza@pacebus.com> - Friday, November 29, 2002 at 14:56:59 (PST) I was on board from 87 to decomm working in the DC shop and a member of the "Flying Squids." I'm still up here in N.Y. Breakin windows for a living. (F.D.N.Y. L-150 ) I have found some shipmates from this site and always hope to find more. Say hello... Buck50@optonline.net Happy Holidays everyone....George George Povey <Buck50@optonline.net> - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 21:34:19 (PST) And then I said to my self, !!! SELF !! "What about Chuck Borrows" are you still around,,,, hello from M-3 Div. 76-79.... Remember the wire brushing?? These were the greatest of times.... Shine she may, Run she must!!!! Frank B. where was OD ?? I have been searching for my cruise books, I have 75 &77 I believe... Later all, Brian Brian Walker (goggles) <bmw226@mchsi.com> - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 23:00:40 (PST) Served in A-Gang from 85 to 88. Looking to hook up with old shipmates. Worked in Hydraulics and Emerg diesel. And I rem Fergie!! Jon. Russell Gill <mecrjg@yahoo.com > - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 17:01:03 (PST) Just wanted to wish all my fellow shipmates a very happy Thanksgiving. God Bless you all. Pc3 Reisinger <southernyank@pa.net> - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 10:46:12 (PST) hey,i'm back,still want to hear from all of ya V-1 noloads,'80-84.just remembered,work-ups,'80...kickin'it on the hot tractor,eatin'M&Ms...whatching Gordy Martin,carve ftn with the tailhook bar into the nonskid! the GUMP and Gnarly Borden lookin'at Martin,leaning on my HT ,just crakin'up!it was a long night...8cycles,with wog,nugget,bird jockies...OH SO MANY BOLTERS!YOU GO GORDY! looking to hear from other TK's,o.k.Billy T.,Sanchez,Morgan,Borden,Martin,oh and you to Carrizales.C-YA...YO-YO. Ed Burkhardt <eddierburkhardt@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 07:54:03 (PST) Just thought I would take the time to wish "all" a happy Thanksgiving Day, and hope you guys are all doing ok. I remember standing a "dipster dumpster" watch in boot camp at Great Lakes in 59 in the snow on Thanksgiving Day. P-coat, leggins, and all. Ha! But I also remember not standing any watches when we went to Sydney in 63! HA Ha! Was a PN2, and aboard in 62 and 63, in ships personnel office. I usually check this site 2 or 3 times a week, and remain thankful for this site and its potential. Remember the hangerbay full of personal cars we took from SFran to San Diego? Guess that was ships company, before the squadrons came aboard. Hope you all have "left-overs" on Turkey day.. Chuck Bell <CBellthe1@aol.com> - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 19:13:28 (PST) This is my new e-mail address now. See my other entry in 2002 Guest Book. (Big Wally) Harry Wiseley <cva43@frontiernet.net> - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 18:32:30 (PST) Looking for shipmates 82-85 A division Doug Stewart < ifdstewart@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 03:40:42 (PST) I was on the Coral Sea from 77 - 80. I sure would like to hear from some of you guys. Guy Lawrence Fiscal, Doc Plata, Darrel Whitcomb, Joe Blanchette, Joe Potter, Tom High, BM1 Jackson, and anybody I may have been to wasted to remember. Michael E. Rutherford <mnjrutherford@wmconnect.com> - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 22:56:22 (PST) Served on the Coral Sea from 66-68 in V-3 Division. Looking for Jonny Crawford. Last known location, Amarillo TX. Hey dude, I hear your a biker know. The Radman. Tim Radomski "Ski" <radman6@mail.com> - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 16:50:42 (PST) Hey shipmates. I served onboard her Feb'75 - Dec '77. Boiler Tech in 4-Able. Would like to hear from anyone still around. Rick Bynum <rbynum14@mchsi.com> - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 12:31:21 (PST) Still lookin for anyone in B-Div. or whoever was in 4-Able 1960-1963. I'm so greatful to have served on this great ship, it's paid off so well in my later life. I'm still in contact with Glen Seviert & Big Em. I messed cooked with Puckett & was standing watch in 4-Able when he took a dive. We shut down so fast we could never beat our time during drills,lol. Sammy D. Owens <lwsambo@web-access.net> - Saturday, November 23, 2002 at 19:04:08 (PST) I forgot to mention earlier, that I was in 4th div. From July 64 to Aug 66.Who can forget our month in Hawaii.Also,would like to hear from Mike L. Robertson. Larry D. Bright <son781@aol.com> - Friday, November 22, 2002 at 19:36:17 (PST) Thank all of you for the news clippings& pictures. Proud to had served on her. She will always be in my heart.Sorry to see she was deconmissed. Felt like I had lost a family member. Thank you all again. Your brother, Larry Larry D. Bright <son781@aol.com> - Friday, November 22, 2002 at 19:03:59 (PST) Great Site. b hall <mto@cs.com> - Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 06:10:33 (PST) Finest carrier ever to sail on. As a member of numerous A-6 Squadrons deployed on numerous flat tops the Coral Sea and VA-55 was the best!!!!. She wasn,t fast but she was mean and that goes for here crew too. Tom Pohlman, AOC Ret <a6skypig@prodigy.net> - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 20:39:16 (PST) I am looking for an old friend, Skip Amme, who served on the USS Coral Sea in Vietnam in 1965-That was the last time I heard from him and I am hoping he made it back OK. Can anyone tell me? Susan Howard <nolaswan@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 19:41:28 (PST) I was aboard Coral Sea in the VQ-1 Whale in 1965-1966 on various occasions. I remember eating in flight suits in the bowling alley with some of the greatest naval aviators ever. I have good memories of Coral Sea and freinds in VAH and VF-151. Robin W. Erskine <rerskine@att.net> - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 08:12:20 (PST) Where are all the Stew Burners? Oh well. I was onboard in '79-'82 in SS05 or "Zips Mess". Can still remember the Philipino cooks eating w/ their hands, squatting down next to the ovens in the galley. Culture shock?! Big time! I was in the 'yards in Bremerton as well. I really miss those days. But one only remembers the good things, shipmates! If anyone cares to write please do, for any reason. Take care shipmates! Joe Land <trentonbuzzsaw@aol.com> - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 07:08:39 (PST) Hay Jack, the last I heard about Pucket he made it to one of those islands we pased on the way to Synidny. He could still be there liveing a good life. no joke I have often woundered whatever happened to him. I do remember searching that whole ship,like you I am still curious. I was aboard the night the awacs went in. I was on the Flight deck, we seen him coming and all at once he veered off and went in, we threw our wands in the water, but we never found them. Ralph And to Harness I remember a Bodfield and Schmitz. Still looking for Simpson and Zelesdorf. Ralph Osburn V1 Div Fly1 61-63 ps I remember when Singer and other kid got killed in a car wreck in 1963 when on leave. Ralph Osburn V1 Div Fly1 61-63 <osburnjrl@intercorp.com> - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 19:03:01 (PST) still looking for those PC's (85/89) we had some good times guys. lots of work and very long hours but we had some fun. jimmy, chris, ray and rod. where you guys at. sure do miss you guys. Dan <southernyank@pa.net> - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 12:42:19 (PST) Hey, E Division, Electricians Mate. Power Shop Crew! Hey Hoss, Mac and the Gang! The Best to Youse Guys! Hank from New York City! James Henry Gordon <jameshenry247@mac.com> - Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 17:21:43 (PST) Division E from 52-55. Dean E. King <klhatch@tellurian.net> - Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 12:15:01 (PST) M3 Div. 3Eng. 76-79,,,, Hey Frank B. E-Me with a good E-Address. I tried that one and it would'nt send ???? Have you heard from anyone ?? Doug Kaufman's was on another web site , e-me I'll fill ya in...... So is anyone else from The ole 3 Screw out there ????? Hey Chief Louie you still suck !!!!! Brian Walker (goggles) <bmw226@mchsi.com> - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 23:27:09 (PST) H Div Officer 63-65...Great ship..memories..good and so-so...God bless the Airmen that didn't make it back off that 64-65 Vietnam cruise...Whatever happened to Capt Kellar Johnson, USMC CO marine detachment 63 -?? Think he made it back to the grunts but ??? Ollen Langston <langston@tele-net.net> - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 15:39:32 (PST) Looking for anyone that may of served with Howard Richard Phillips, 1951-53. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! Lindsay <WASHANDSHINE@aol.com> - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 11:44:25 (PST) hello to all that served !!! Wayne Malwitz (Mal) <spyder1@wi.rr.com> - Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 19:12:03 (PST) A bit of info for the art on your site: 1980 A Marine F-4 of VMFA-531 launches from the deck of the USS Coral Sea during the Iran hostage crisis. [Artist - Unknown] is called "Thunder on the Deck" by John R. Doughty, Jr. http://www.highironillustrations.com Regards, - Fran Fran Adams <fadams@adnc.com> - Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 18:21:08 (PST) I served aboard her from 9/85-3/89. V-3 div(Bay Rats) for my first cruise(line of death). and V-1 div for my second cruise. Any bay rats out there who want to get in touch with me or Carter, Waters or Pieper just get back to me. Any V-1 nuts I would sure like to hear from you also. Remember Eakle's house. Had many a great time over there. Craig Shafer <ceshafer@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 05:29:35 (PST) I served aboard her from 9/85-3/89. V-3 div(Bay Rats) for my first cruise(line of death). and V-1 div for my second cruise. Craig Shafer <ceshafer@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 04:48:56 (PST) Anyone around from M3 Div. 76-79.... I knew most of the Marines due to my extensive BRIG training (50 days onboard & 130 in P.I.) Oh yes the memories, mamories & Marines. I seen Doug Kaufman's note(M3 Div.)but no current E-Mail Address..Where is Chuck Caswell, Dan Randall, Tom Davis, George Tillman and the rest of the "Heartbreak Hotel Residents" wasn't it 1224 6th Street Bremerton...... Remember Mike Reese,,, the greatest friend I'll ever know... We use to going putting on our bikes all over the Bremerton area. He was my best friend in the Navy and we even met up again in Phoenix, in 90.. He finally decided to be my best man at my 2nd wedding (it didn't help,that BITCH !!). I lived out there for about 2 yrs.,, he was from there.. Mike passed away Jan 19 2002 from stomach cancer he was 50. Mike was my mentor and basically taught me how to be ME... So because of you Michael Raymond Reese------ I will "Keep a smile on my face and a song in my heart". Mahul kita walong tia (I Love You No Shit) Hey Steve Hague,,,, do you still have my camera ?????? Brian Walker (goggles) <bmw226@mchsi.com> - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 18:17:41 (PST) to whom it may concern.my dad was on the coralsea in v/n is there anymore resources to find info on him and what he did,if anyone knows please let me know? thanks jimmy jr. jimmy lee ray jr. <nnuklhead@earthlink.net> - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 17:56:18 (PST) guy men keep off mugu <mugu@mugu.com> - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 07:40:56 (PST) 64/65 cruise...hey there were no water hours on the salt water shower's What's to complain about ?.....god I can still smell them. 8-) Fred Leavines "MUGS" VA 165 <fleavines@earthlink.net> - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 15:53:26 (PST) Great Site. 1987-1989 V2 Division Tom Mastel <tjmastel@msn.com> - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 13:48:20 (PST) SAD NEWS: I hit this site months ago pre 9-11 {cause I vividly remember talking to him that day via instant message} and found an old shipmate Everett Rouska V-2 83-87 aprox. I was informed by his wife he passed away. I didnt learn any details. I couldnt believe it. Just though I'd post a Coral Maru sailors passing. Im sad she gone and had to watch as they slowly carved her up in Baltimore harbor. I heard the contractor bungled the job to boot. No way to treat a lady. Even if she was old..... JJ Dollymore SM2 84-88 John Dollymore <john.dollymore@digex.com> - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 12:26:18 (PST) I've got to make some comments about water hours! I was on board with a Security Group Detachment in 1965. When I came on in July, water hours were in place. This continued until the Coral Sea departed for home. Randy Kelso talks about water hours in the early stages of that first combat cruise of 1964-65. The showers were open early evening each day for maybe what - about an hour? Watches stood duty. Showers were limited to 30 seconds. 10 seconds to wet and soap down. 20 seconds to rinse off. Waiting lines snaked out of the shower/lavatory/head area into the berthing space. Many of those in line were smeared with black on their face, neck, and arms. People with "clean" jobs like myself made do with washing ourselves out of the lavatories. The Coral Sea saved face through all of this by at least providing us with a steady flow of clean clothes, thanks to those who labored long hours laundering all that stuff. The word making the rounds was that the Coral Sea was scheduled for an overhaul at the end of the cruise. When we pulled into Subic Bay, the morning of October 16, 1965, our detachment disembarked and traveled to San Miguel Communications Station for layover, until the USS Ticonderoga arrived to take the Coral Sea's place. When we were finally checked into the barracks at San Miguel late afternoon, everyone spontaneously had the same idea to hit the showers and scrub off the last of the grime from the Coral Sea. I always said it was the longest shower of my life - about 25 minutes. It was pay back time! Thanks! Fred Redeker Jefferson City, MO - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 08:30:05 (PST) August '82 - October '83 World Cruise crewmember started in B-5 division, then later at EX division. Lt. Sutton helped me to turn my life around, apply myself to do better. I remember Captain Taylor's nightly chat over the PA system. CV-43 was old but happy ship. Paul Okabayashi <okabayas@spiritone.com> - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 07:21:37 (PST) Hi, So glad I found this site! Was on her from 1962-66 Was on the Austraila cruise and Nam in Dec.1964. Was in ordinance. Looking for Larry Sellars who was my best man June1964. Also Dave Munson, and Larry Pierce. Hope you can help me. Let me know of any reunions. My nickname was "Butch". Thanks Albert E. Haverstick Jr. - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 19:37:51 (PST) From mid 65 to Jan 69. B-Div MM2, Evaps. We never had water hours on those three deployments... Great site!!! Ronald Adolph <wooffeer@attbi.com> - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 16:34:24 (PST) Go Boomers! VA165....the bad boy ,spad boys. Attached with CAW 15. Dec.4, 1964 to Nov. 1 1965. We did the double......yes 2....2 cruise's in one. My nickname ...Mugs, Misuse of Ground Equipment. Plane Captain 411...remember guys. The experience of a life time...encluding the ...Olongopo shit's. So many great guys to through -up with. On the sad side,losing LTJG Shaw.over delta station What a big galoot he was and such a nice guy..with his Ace of spades playing card taped to the back of his helment. So many memories. Hey ..if your liver hasn't let's here from ya. Fred Leavines " MUGS" <fleavines@earthlink.net> - Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 11:41:03 (PST) Great job on this site. Served onboard '80 - '84 B div. 4- Baker fireroom. Good buddies, from the "GHETTO" in our berthing A-305-L. west-pac and world cruise. Mike Geier <MGeier356@aol.com> - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 21:51:19 (PST) Have new e-mail address until end of Nov 02. Will get same e-mail address back in May 03 when I return to Bremerton. From Nov to May will be travelling around country. MACM Hank Rausch <hrausch@telebyte.com> - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 18:09:58 (PST) I served onboard 1967-68 cruises to Vietnam. I pushed planes around from hanger deck to flight deck and back. My crew wore blue shirts and mickey mouse ears. I don't remember my division Leonard A. Walker <SnaggleRatz@aol.com> - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 14:36:56 (PST) I served onboard 1967-68 cruises to Vietnam. Leonard A. Walker <SnaggleRatz@aol.com> - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 14:30:43 (PST) Joe Land <trentonbuzzsaw@aol.com> trenton, nj usa - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 07:57:58 (PST) You have a great web site.I really enjoyed looking through it! I only served 2 years on board her,but I really loved her. I served from Aug.1968- May 1970 I was in V-3 Division, which was Hanger Deck crew. My job was Aircraft Elevator operator. (it beat pushing planes around!) Thanks to you, the old girl will live on. My E-Mail address is: RIBLESSLARDO@AOL.COM Richard Carter <RIBLESSLARDO@AOL.COM> - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 18:19:22 (PST) My father served on the Coral Sea from 1951-1953....today he's getting ready to celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary. Any friends out there who remember Don Jones and want to say hi should write to me...God Bless all who served! carol <caropke@aol.com> - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 13:56:54 (PST) I was a Radioman on the Coral Sea 1965-1966. Tim Bunn <TBunn27592@AOL.Com> - Thursday, October 31, 2002 at 15:53:27 (PST) X Division, 1962 to 1964 - I'm the Puckett hunter, the kid from VAH-2 who jumped ship on the way to Sydney during the 1963 cruise. Reunion in Branson was great! Met an old shipmate and we both hated the same BM2 MAA then and now so memory hasn't completly failed. Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Wednesday, October 30, 2002 at 20:55:56 (PST) Remember that big brass bell that was on the forward deck port side..RIGHT next to a fueling station? I dont know HOW many times I had to polish that damn bell over a four year period...wonder if they ever figured out what happened to the clapper? Hmmm, whats that on my mantle? I'll never tell! Loved the Maru, was the best ship I ever had the opportunity to serve on! CTO1 (ret) - Wednesday, October 30, 2002 at 02:04:25 (PST) i was a btfn on the last med .iwoorked from 4charlie iwas also on the decom crew i would to find acopy of the cruise book that we done. thanks for the memories. mike bartell <mbartell@fhsu.edu> - Monday, October 28, 2002 at 00:31:31 (PST) I was a Machinist Mate in 4 Engine 1982 to 1985 and last stood as Throttleman. Sad to see her demise but her Honorable Memory will live on forever through all of the men who served her well, with Pride and Patriotism, and a common belief that this Great Nation we all are a part of is the best form of Government that there is. She will live on as strong symbol of what this nation is all about. It is much bigger than any one of us. May God Richly Bless each and every man who served upon her Mighty Decks. Bill Bill Farmer <bill.farmer4@verizon.net> - Sunday, October 27, 2002 at 17:17:14 (PST) Like to here from any V1 div. Osburn, Ralph <osburnjrl@intercor.com> - Saturday, October 26, 2002 at 22:56:02 (PDT) Great site. My Dad was on the Coral Sea and love to hear the stories. Jeff Wantz <Jwantz5377@aol.com> - Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 19:11:37 (PDT) Ships company 84-86. AIMD as an AMS in airframes. On board during collison with oil tanker. Where are you Dennis Stroud? Dehler (Dee) Wenning <noliberals@attbi.com> - Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 18:51:41 (PDT) the best ship site I have seen for photos, excellant work , ron h ron horabin <r.horabin@ntlworld.com> - Monday, October 21, 2002 at 14:59:10 (PDT) I served on USS CORAL SEA from 2/84 to 7/87. G-3 division. Did the 85/86 Med cruise. Great ship, Great friends, lots of great memories. Tim McCluskey <tmac@piggott.net> - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 18:14:56 (PDT) Served on board from may 84-sept 85 as a OS3 would like to hear from others from this time Rick Riel <Rick@hotsy/carlson.com> - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 08:21:57 (PDT) Thank you for this great site. I used it building a model fo the Coral Sea in 1:700 scale from scratch in her Vietnam outfit. Without this site the project would have failed. Thanks again. Frank Ilse Frank Ilse <FrnIlse@aol.com> - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 04:04:36 (PDT) onboard 79-82 mostly in ss05. the coral maru, the big grey weinie! i was wondering if the shellback i hit in the eye with a tomato in onboard. it was shellback initiation time, i was a shellback and there was a 'wog with a fire hose above the hanger bay, stbd aft. i brought up many hard green tomatos from the s5 galley & threw many up there, one made it. later on this big dude vame up asking me if i was the one throwing tomatos. i thought i was going to get my butt kicked...instead he praised my aim... joe land <trentonbuzzsaw@aol.com> - Thursday, October 17, 2002 at 08:12:54 (PDT) Hi! I served on the Coral Sea from March 1983 to June 1985. Paul LeBlond <pajaja@megalink.net> - Wednesday, October 16, 2002 at 07:32:37 (PDT) 2nd div. 1959-60 B.div. 1960-1963, 4-Able fireroom. Sammy D. Owens <lwsambo@web-access.net> - Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 20:18:21 (PDT) 1988-1990 B Div 1 charlie Dene Driggers <fishnpa@aol.com> - Monday, October 14, 2002 at 11:18:42 (PDT) I served on Coral Sea in Alameda from 64-66 in Public Affairs Office. I was ship's newspaper editor. I would like to hear from anyone from X Division during that time. Les Jackson Les Jackson <LLJackson2503@aol.com> - Sunday, October 13, 2002 at 11:49:29 (PDT) Looking for anyone from the land of OZ and Strike-ops From 75 to 78. Chief G. Diamond Jim Parker, He must be still the clown. Had my 21st birthday on board the coral sea. On the cake it said "Happy Birthday TURKEY on your 21st". Best birthday I ever had. To that division, who made me complete My high school education in the navy. Who show me leadership. To Barnett remember this PI. I I I you know the rest. Ty Turkey!!!! Ray Finch <Ray f.1480hotmail.com> - Sunday, October 13, 2002 at 04:18:24 (PDT) I served on the flight deck as a tracktor driver and then yellow shirt from 1976 to 1978 including the 1977 west pac cruise. I have very fond memories of the time I spent on this ship. Chris Catli <chris.catli@varian.com> - Friday, October 11, 2002 at 20:37:23 (PDT) I was aboard the USS Coral Sea 1952/1954! Ships company V2-E "Blinky" Howell was our Commanding Officer; a Mustang! CWO Kevern! Chief Brown! John Baskeyfield was the 1st Class Petty Officer in Charge of V2-E a really great person that helped me beyond and above the call of duty! Names I remember-Sobiesk; Grassi; Brasher; Idell; Dick Jester; and more! A great ship; a great crew---I'm humbled to have had the privilege to serve on her! Lee Skipper Lee Skipper <reppiks@heathsprings.net> - Friday, October 11, 2002 at 17:29:40 (PDT) Served on the Cora Maru 4/72-5/74 and did 2 WestPAC cruises. I was an ASE, working in AIMD (in the ASE shop on the aft end of the hanger bay and on the flight deck) and did a "tour" in MAA. Visited Hong Kong, Sasabo, Yokuska (we got kicked out of both Japanese ports, if I'm not mistaken), Manilla, Olongopo, etc. but never quite made it "down under". Got as an ASE3, before having to experience the "peace-time Navy". Jim Bradley <jim.pat.bradley@charter.net> - Friday, October 11, 2002 at 11:26:41 (PDT) I am looking for a man named Randy Murphy. He served on the USS Coral Sea in 1978 for sure and I am not sure when he got out. He is on page 253 of the 1979 cruisebook. If anyone knows how I can contact him or someone he knows then would you please write me at either fjp@donobi.net or hotmamajo@hotmail.com. I would be so grateful. Thank you for your time. Leslie Pine <fjp@donobi.net> Port Orchard , WA USA - Friday, October 11, 2002 at 00:04:16 (PDT) MAR-DET 81-83 CPL T.L. OSBORNE - Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 19:05:47 (PDT) MAR-DET 81-83 CPL T.L. OSBORNE - Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 19:03:02 (PDT) I was on the CORAL sea FROM 1979 TO 1982 DID 2 WEST PACS WAS MESS SPEACIALEST 3 RD CLASS WAS CAPTAIN DUNLEVEY'S COOK AS A MATTER OF FACT UNTIL LANCE CORPRAL MANCE I BELIEVE BUSTED ME AND O.B. JIM O'BRIAN SMOKING TIA STICK IN THE OLD MANS LAUNDRY ROOM.WHERE ARE JOE LAND,TIM BREN,DAVE GAILEY,JIM GRAFF,RAY CRONIN, KEN MCCLOUD,JONESY,PETE,HOW ABOUT SUBIC BAY F***Y SUCKY ALL NIGHT LONG,LOVE YOU NO SHIT BUY ME FIREBIRD. GREAT TIMES GREAT MEMORY'S SEE YA SCOTTT A TOLLIVER <villagesales@vossauto.com> - Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 15:57:57 (PDT) Put into commission in 1959-60 in Bremerton. Made first WesPac tour. Also made the trip to Vancouver, B.C. Would like to hear from anybody living now near Spokane, Wash. My name is Steve Stevenson. Steve Stevenson <marynsteve77@juno.com> - Wednesday, October 09, 2002 at 13:51:22 (PDT) I would love to hear from fellow crew members. I was on board 1965-1969. Michael Haley <bhaley@onyx-industrial.com> - Monday, October 07, 2002 at 11:22:55 (PDT) Just checking in with a new Email address. Did the 56/57 Med cruise. I was the first ACC to be assigned to the Coral Sea. Retired in 1959 and spent the next 30 years as a commercial pilot. Robert C. Cooper <robert.c.cooper@verizon.net> - Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 16:41:17 (PDT) I was on the coral sea from 79-84 in charge of 2 charlie boiler room. looking for jimmy richmond, bobbie earl franklin or samuel ( spud ) banks james west <grandnational_1987@yahoo.com> - Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 08:49:50 (PDT) Well I guess I'll sign it this year also. This site has helped me get conneted with some old buddys. Really cool site. Thanks. And I do miss her. It was really hard looking at the pictures of the scraping of her. Don't understand why they did that. When I was in Bremerton, WA. for a refit there was some carriers that were a lot older then the coral sea and they didn't scrap them. Funny how thing work out. David Root <droot@moment.net> - Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 14:11:40 (PDT) YO GREAT TIMES ,LOVE THIS SITE. HEY HOTROD WHERE ARE YOU ? TRYIN TO FIND YOU IN NJ J REINERT <GLR399@AOL.COM> - Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 13:17:04 (PDT) I was a British exchange pilot with VF 191 Satan’s Kittens aboard Coral Sea 1976 and Westpac 1977. Got my orders to go to The Colony in ‘75 straight from HMS Ark Royal. After a 3 month conversion to the ‘proper’ F4J with VF 121, I eagerly awaited my orders to join a shiny, new mega-carrier by way of a change from my previous experiences on the best of 1950’s British tubs. You can imagine my initial thoughts when it turned out to be the good old Coral Sea-her birthday leading the others by at least 2 years! The good thing was that I was already well used to airconditioning- the hotter the climate- not working and the cabin noise environment would be a nice change to be under the bow catapult instead of next to Ark Royal’s bent screws! Seriously, I look back with fond affection on the Old Girl who never let me or my colleagues down and she was a good home and safe haven from Olongapo! I had the knee-quaking pleasure of representing VF 191 on the deck with F4 static display on Bi-Centennial day 1976 San Francisco open day to the public. I bet that amused a few of the natives! As if that were not enough humiliation, the following July 4th, alongside in Subic, I was expected to turn out in dress whites and hand my sword over to the Commanding Officer(I have a photo to prove it), whilst still maintaining a smile! One memorable day during our crossing the Pacific outbound on the Westpac, wandering through the hangar, I was admonished by the MAA’s patrol for having incorrect uniform items (such as strange rank insignia, suede shoes etc). My different accent then caused serious alarm, enough for me to be arrested and marched away to the brig until I was vouched for by my Skipper-about 3 hours later!(I never expected to have to produce an ID 1000 miles from land.) I’m sure it was a set up but quite alarming at the time. I wonder if I am the only foreigner to have served on her (if not, then certainly the only one to be arrested). I achieved about 150 arrested arrivals. I am always very proud and glad to have served aboard a ‘proper’ carrier and feel priviledged to have had the good fortune to get to know our cousins so well. Be nice to hear from anybody who remembers me. PS-and who said US ships are ‘dry’?! Paul Chaplin <paulchap@aol.com> - Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 12:41:09 (PDT) I am looking for a man named Randy Murphy. He was on the coral sea in 1978-1979 and probably even longer. I am not sure what he did or where he worked on the ship but from what I got from your cruisebook he was in VA 97/Attack Squadron. I am not sure if this is correct but it said that his CO was J. McGrath and D. Carrol. If anyone knows of him or where I could get the information to find him then please write me at hotmamajo@hotmail.com or fjp@donobi.net. I am his daughter and he has no idea that I exist. If you know him or someone that does don't worry. I am 23 now and married and all I want to know is if he is alive. With everything that has happened in this world I don't want to live the rest of my life without knowing him. Please help me if you can thank you. Leslie Pine <hotmamajo@hotmail.com> - Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 00:15:41 (PDT) V3-Division-(1955-1957)would appreicate information on reunions (dates and places)and would enjoy any comunication from men who serviced during this period,may be reached at (864)269-8238 or Gary Garrett, 32 Butternut Dr, Greenville SC 29605. Gary Harold Garrett <Hecrhebabt@Charter.net> - Friday, October 04, 2002 at 10:25:21 (PDT) I am so glad i found these sites. i was on the ageless warrior from 1985 till 1988. I miss parts of the lifestyle on board ship, but mostly I miss the friends I made. Recently i stumbled upon the Coral Sea association and i'm gonna join it. And hopefully i'll find some of my old shipmates. I'm glad to be back with the Coral Sea brotherhood. God Bless you all Dan Reisinger PC 3 Dan Reisinger <southernyank@pa.net> - Friday, October 04, 2002 at 09:27:02 (PDT) Pucket, from VAH-2: With all you guys thinking, and remembering, we're gonna find out what exactly what happened to him, and what the Navy told the family. I was X Division MAA Yeoman, later CO's office during the time he disappeared, lots of brass when we got back to the states asking "how or why"? Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 01:57:30 (EDT) I have a new e-mail address if any old shipmates want to contact me. On board 1969 - 1973 V-2 division catapult 3 and 2. brian paradis (BC) <bparadis38@msn.com> - Wednesday, October 02, 2002 at 19:13:10 (EDT) 71-72 In 3-c boiler room looking for b. Gibson, Fred White (somewhere in Texas) Wilbur Seawrite, Bruce Thuvenall, We were always asking for better sea-rights Redel John <Redels Acres@awol.com> - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 11:19:43 (EDT) I was in recomm nucleous crew in 1959. OE Division. Joe Cassel <JoeNL7JT@msn.com> - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 10:41:23 (EDT) 3-C Boiler Room from 1971 to 1972 Looking for gibson Fred White, Wilbur Searight, Bruce Thuvenall, or Willie from 3-A hole. we were always looking for better sea-rights!! Redel John <Redels acres@aol.com> - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 01:30:56 (EDT) Time on the ship "West Pac 77" Greg Priestas <Candy529@dalejr.net> Galloway , Ohio USA - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 04:05:16 (EDT) Served as onboard from Jan 79 - Oct 82. This was my first ship after apprentice training in Great Mistakes. Came onboard as a non-rate, was sent to CR Division and then to RM "A" shcool. Left the ship as RM3. Made lot's of friends while mess cranking, Pat Jaconetti, Greg "Auggie Dog" Auguire, if you guys are out there hit me up. Many Westpac memories but the most memorable is while inport in Pusan, Korea, I awoke in a haze in a some girls one room apartment, having no idea where I was and knowing that the ship was getting uderway that morning "ah s***" I got dressed, climbed over a fence and started running, having no idea where I was going. I managed to flag down a cab after about 10 minutes of running and trying to describe the whereabouts of the ship to the cab driver who finally uderstood what I was trying to say. I got back to the pier just has the Bosn was firing up the Capt's gig for the last trip back to the ship just prior to getting uderway. I was mess cranking at the time and thought for sure I was going to Capt's mast but nothing was ever mentioned about it. I guess I slipped through the cracks that time. This was my first Westpac 79/80, sheesh that was a close one :) Mike Kennedy <mikek@norcom.net> - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 13:34:13 (EDT) I was a Signalman Seaman on the Coral Sea from December 1959 to July 1962 Ted Hillis <tedhillis@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 18:09:09 (EDT) served from recommissioning in bremerton in in late 59 through 62. first westpac cruise after that. home ported in alameda. capt then was capt james grey. operations officer was john haynie and exec was cdr rickenbaugh. looking for any other ships crew members from this time frame.i was in op div worked as yeoman in operations office. what great expierence it was to have been part of such a great ship. ken smith <ksmith6757@aol.com> - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 09:08:54 (EDT) served from recommissioning in bremerton in in late 59 through 62. first westpac cruise after that. home ported in alameda. capt then was capt james grey. operations officer was john haynie and exec was cdr rickenbaugh. looking for any other ships crew members from this time frame. thanks. ken smith <ksmith6757@aol.com> - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 08:38:49 (EDT) SERVED WITH VMA121 WESTPAC 60/61. WORKED FOR M/SGT ROBBIE ROBINSON IN ORDINANCE.WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE STILL ABOVE GROUND!! C.BOONE charles e. boone <sp146@wnclink.com> - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 09:03:49 (EDT) Served on the "old Girl" from 1996 to 1990 as MA1. She was a good ship. She always brought us home. Wm. Douglas Van Syckle <vansycwd@yahoo.com> - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 13:39:25 (EDT) Just found this site today 09/20/2002. Great job. Reading some of the entries; I'm all for contacting my Congressman about her name being carried on, to a grand nuke; not a LCH or whatever. I served aboard her '61 to '64. I was in O.I. Div. ( C.I.C.) then transferred to S-2 before making rate as a Radarman because they had the best liberty on the ship. ( 5 on-2off; 2 on 5-off). I remember all the things I've read today; loosing the elevator, going to Sydney, watching a Crusader wind in the catwalk after overshooting the arresting gear, etc.etc. By the way, I heard Puckett was found washed up on the shore by some fishermen and had evidently ran into some sea snakes. Don't know if it's scuttlebutt or not.I had one of the biggest slush funds on the ship, so if any of you owe me ( Jim Hebert of Lafayette, La. ), my e-mail address is posted. On second thought, send it to help out this web site. I was allowed to change rate and in Sept. '64 went to B.U.D.S. and on to U.D.T. Like to hear from some of my shipmates. God Bless The U.S.A. and the U.S.S. Coral Sea CVA-43. Tim Ryan <tryan@mapllc.com> - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 16:52:05 (EDT) I WAS ON THE CORAL MAROO 3/77 TO 12/80. I SERVED IN THE RESERVES FOR SEVEN YEARS AFTER THAT.I WAS VERY SAD TO HERE THAT THE OL' GIRL WAS PUT TO REST. IT WASN'T JUST A SHIP BEING SCAPED IT WAS A PART OF MY LIFE COMING TO A END. I REALLY LOVED MY TIME ON HER AND HAD SO MANY GREAT TIMES AND GREAT FRIENDS. KEITH GREGORY IN R DIV...ALL MY FELLOW GRAPES IN V-4...HANK HULL, DAVID BAKER, ROD KRAUSE,I STILL REMEMBER OUR RIDE ON MOTORCYCLES IN THAILAND.OUR TIME IN BREMERTON WAS CLASSIC. I COULD GO ON FOREVER BECAUSE IT WAS ALL VERY SPECIAL. HOPE TO HERE FROM SOMEONE IN MY DIV...ROD STILL REMEMBER THE DINNER YOUR MOM COOKED US. JEFF DANBURG ABF-2 <YELTRK68@AOL.COM> - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 06:38:31 (EDT) I served onboard from 1982-1988 RM3 Darrell A. Young <youngwtiger@wmconnect.com> - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 00:28:56 (EDT) 19984-1987 AIMD, IM-4. Went on (1) Med cruise. Not a day goes by that I don't think of old CV-43. It was a hoot. Jim Keene <jim@copyprint.hrcoxmail.com> - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 21:14:08 (EDT) I SERVED ABOARD THE CORAL SEA IN B-3 DIVISION IN THE YEARS 88-89, HAVE NOTHING BUT THE BEST OF MEMORIES OF THE SHIPMATES I HAD THE CHANCE TO WORK WITH AND GET TO KNOW. IF ANY ONE IS OUT THERE I LIKE TO SAY HELLO AND HOPE TO TO SEE YOU IN THE GUESTBOOK. roger vandal <deepocean06492@cs.com> - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 20:21:46 (EDT) Always love to hear from old buddies. What great memories. What kind of shape were we in down in that hot pit called #2 engineroom? Still talk to Rick Strom every now and then. Saw Jack Hardy not long ago, and talked to James Stewart a couple times. Looking for Phil and Seabaugh and Tommy, and Jay Jay Jay and Barry and all you crazy guys! We worked hard and played hard, didn't we? Lost track of a lot of you guys. You know how it goes! I'm in the phone book in St. Joseph, MO. Jeff "Mac" McMillian <jmcmillian@mac.com> - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 01:08:17 (EDT) I am privileged and honored to work with Gerard "Top" Gillis who served as a fireman on the USS Franklin CV 13. He was one of the survivors of the World War II destruction of his ship. We were talking about what had happened when he asked me to look up his ship on the internet. Someone from your ship compiled a picture which included the USS Franklin and I have made a copy of it for him to show his grandchildren. "Top" is still very active with volunteer work at the Blinded Veterans office in the Veterans Clinic at McClellan AFB in Sacramento, and goes full steam ahead to help other blinded veterans. I feel very fortunate to have met him and work with him. God bless all who serve and have served in the military defending and protecting our nation. Diana M. Fleig, CMSgt, USAF Ret. <AFBLUEGIRL@JUNO.COM> Sacramento, California United States - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:41:05 (EDT) Served aboard the USS Coral Sea with VF-103 fighter squadron CAG-10, Med cruises in 1954 and 1956/57. Richard B. (Bud) Nisley <btnisley@worldnet.att.net> - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 22:01:30 (EDT) This is a repost of what I wrote a year ago today in the Coral Sea guestbook. When I wrote it, many emotions were going through me, as I'm sure they were for you. We were young men when we served aboard Coral Sea, some of us were put in harms way, and some helped keep our country on a steady course. Nevertheless, back in the "haze grey and underway" days, few of us could foresee how we would feel in later life, especially after the events of a year ago. We are all Coral Sea sailors, and I'm sure we all feel proud to have been a part of her history, and to have served in the effort to ensure the freedoms the citizens, our friends, families and loved ones enjoy in the United States of America. Well done, gentlemen. Here's the post: Sept.11, 2001.....nothing will ever be the same. Nothing. Ever again. Today, after 16 years, I returned to USS Coral Sea. Back to March of 1986. Libian terrorism had finally reached the point that Ronald Reagan decided to pull the trigger. During our Med cruise, we had been at GQ twice a day, and Capt. Fergeson came over the 1MC and told us the next time it was called away, it was gonna be the real thing. And it was. What took place today reinforced in my mind many things. What has become the fate of the ship we served on is but a grim reminder that the United States has grown complacent in its overblown opinion of itself. This is still a dangerous world in which we live. Like the ideas in Washington of our elected officials who seem to believe that we no longer need to arm our military and defend the borders of America and our allies, the people of this country had better wake up to the fact that today...they need to sit their children down and explain what has happened. That is, if they themselves can understand it. Today had damn well better open some eyes. You...that think for a second that what goes on in the global arena doesn't effect you unless it disturbs that "lifestyle" of yours, that it doesn't matter unless it makes dinner late, or hikes up the price of gas for your SUV's...you better think again. To all of you that were aboard Coral Sea, not only when I was, but served long before and put in harms way as she went about her business...today made us all flinch. Every single one of us. We owe it to those much younger to explain what we, and the United States Navy were and STILL ARE about. What has happened today is confusing to them. They find it hard to comprehend that some of those video games and Hollywood movies actually came to life today. They've been told long ago that the things they see on television isn't real. The movies are make believe. Now make them comprehend how thousands of people died today and where your heart lies. Coral Sea may be a memory, but we aren't. Jon Allen Jon Allen <kalakala_1@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:08:13 (EDT) served aboard from 87-the bitter end. hello to the best people a man could hope to know, martin,chew,bowling,carroll,sweet,and all the rest of you guys that turned this boy into a man. thanks HT-2 Shell <davidshell@psgtn.net> - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 15:46:14 (EDT) I served on board 1969 - 1973 V2 Division Catapult 3 and then Cat 2. To look back at those years and the people that I served with brings back such memories ,(Mostly good). I just spoke to a shipmate (Roger Ryba)great to have made contact. Sure look forward to talking to more of the old crew in the future. May be contacted at 6 Sawmill Road Burilinton Ct 06013 Brian W Paradis Burlington, Ct 06013 USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 15:09:42 (EDT) Hey Jon, did you ever get all of that soap out of your eyes? HA HA. I have a lot of great memories from the Coral Sea. Two Med Cruises, great friends and bilge parties. I was in M-2 division from '84 to '88. Where are you Taco, Cooky, Kennedy, Potter ect. Rick Strom <r9strom@msn.com> - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 02:09:41 (EDT) Can anyone tell me how to get a Coral Sea ships roster for 1963? Sammy D. <lwsambo@web-access> - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 12:58:47 (EDT) Sammy D... Care to enlighten us? Seems like something a lot of folks are interested in on this board! Jon Allen <kalakala_1@hotmail.com> - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 18:05:41 (EDT) Looking for any snipe that was in B or M Div. 1960-1963. Also looking for a Coral Sea Zippo, & I know something about the "Pucket incedent".---Sammy D. --Texas. Sammy D. Owens <lwsambo@web-access.net> - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 10:45:26 (EDT) August 1989 I was an AMSAR reporting to my first squadron, VFA-137 Kestrels, embarked aboard the Ageless Warrior. I trapped aboard on a C-2 Greyhound and the Coral Sea was preparing to take action against Leboneze aggressions. It was an exciting way to begin my first sea duty tour! Karl M. Loper <kloper2002@yahoo.com> - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 21:32:07 (EDT) I served as a GMG2 from 1982 to 1986. I was in G3 Div. Christopher Stamnas <stamnas3@aol.com> Sacramento, CA USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 14:58:12 (EDT) ABOARD 43 1974-1976 DID WESTPACK CRUISE SUBIC BAY (CRAZY DAYS) ALSO VISITED SINGAPOR AND PERTH. LOTS OF GOOD MEMORIES. EMERGENCY BREAKAWAY AT SEA DURING REFUELING. TWO JAPANESE OIL TANKERS REFUSED RIGHT OF WAY!! GOOD FRIENDS HOPE TO HEAR FROM SOME! ENDED TIME ON HER DURING DRY DOCK IN LONG BEACH. TERRY EAGLE <TLEAGLE@MACHLINK.COM> - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 16:21:17 (EDT) I was attached to Heavy Attack Squadron 2 and deployed aboard the Coral Sea on the '60-'61, '61-'62 and '63 cruises. I have many fond memories from those times. How about Australia in '63. Dennis L. Lepard <dll120@adelphia.net> - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 15:17:21 (EDT) Was aboard the Coral Sea 71-74 in X Division 3-M Office. Did two tours to WestPac. Coral Sea mined the harbors of North Vietnam is my best memories of her. Captain William Harris on my first cruise, Captain Paul Peck on the second. I still remember losing Commander Thomas Dunlop in action, as well as the others. Hello to all I served with. Rick Wheeler, Duane Sevigny, Bill Conley, Williams, Betts, Sierra, Olson, Bill Wofford, and all the others. Special thanks to Del Fierro in training who stuck with me and kept telling me I can do it. Robert Ebner (YN3) <rcebner@frontiernet.net> - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 12:36:12 (EDT) Served aboard from 83-87 M-4 division Bill Leslie <wdleslie@umich.edu> - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 22:05:30 (EDT) i was aboard the coral sea from 1981 to 1982 with carrier air wing 14, va-97. it's great to find this site hope to here from old shipmates. edward w. kettner <bigguy2661@aol.com> - Saturday, August 31, 2002 at 17:52:57 (EDT) I was aboard for the 1951 and 1952 summer med cruises as a member of VF44 and worked in the after galley, as I was the cook assigned to VF44. Have a lot of memories, both good and not so good, but I believe more good. I was just a kid and did a lot of maturing aboard. For a kid from Missouri there sure was a lot of water out there. FREDERICK B. KNOESEL CS3,VF44 <fknoesel@wcsonline.net> - Friday, August 30, 2002 at 17:43:40 (EDT) Served from 82-86 In E-Division. Looking for old friends from E division and John Smith From disbursing, whom I was in boot camp with also. Alot of memories here today, good and bad. Talk to you guys soon. Chris Bak <chrisbakinjersey@aol.com> - Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 14:07:51 (EDT) You have a wonderfull site here. My grandfather served on the coral Sea from 48 to 58. i learned alot from this site. Matt Miller <matt.miller2@us.army.mil> - Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 04:14:48 (EDT) I was in A division from 1985 to 1987 and worked in forward emergency diesel generators. I would love to hear from anyone that was in A division. ENFN Robert Larrabee <kjlarrabee@attbi.com> - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 22:32:57 (EDT) 80-83 ATCS, AIMD IM3 LCPO Robert Macomber <rhmacomber@cox.net> - Monday, August 26, 2002 at 17:35:22 (EDT) B Divison, 1 Charlie fireroom Aug 64 to Nov 66. (Ken Johnson if you see this e mail me, your e mail address is not working) Steve Kawelmacher <kawelsh@ridgenet.net> - Sunday, August 25, 2002 at 19:27:20 (EDT) WOW! THERE IS TRULY A WEBSITE FOR EVERYTHING. THIS IS GREAT. I SERVED ON CORAL SEA FROM 86-89 IN THE S-6 DIVISION AND S-7 MAINTENANCE. I WOULD LIKE TO TALK TO OLD FRIENDS, HOTROD AND JOE J.,JACK, DOG, DIXON,LIENDECK, SIMPSON, DONNIE, AND NELLIE. YOU GUYS WERE GREAT! SORRY IF I MISSED ANYBODY ,I WOULD BE TYPING ALL NIGHT. THANKS FOR THE GREAT MEMORIES. JERRY <GLR399@AOL.COM> - Sunday, August 25, 2002 at 03:38:13 (EDT) Hello there fellas.Been a while since i last checked in on the guest register so i figured id better make an appearance.Served 82-85 in M-2 div.So far have made contact with a few of the guys that were aboard at the same time i was and in the same division.Sorry been away so long but i've been grabbing as much overtime as they can hurl my way.After all i never met a check i couldn't use.Oh well take care guys...............Tom Barry Thomas J Barry(mmfn) <tbarry39@comcast.net> - Saturday, August 24, 2002 at 19:39:13 (EDT) Hi my name is Harmony Wiley and my dad, Timothy Wiley served in the 2-b boiler from 72-75. If anybody can remember him and want to talk to him you can contact him through my e-mail address. He is especially looking for a guy named Johnny Espiritu. I don't know if I spelled the last name correctly but hopefully some one will be able to help us find Johnny. Thanks Harmony Wiley <harms223@hotmail.com> - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 19:54:39 (EDT) I'm a Belgium wife and I seek a sailor who served on the coral sea CV 43 in 1982.His name is TERRY HORTON. He was electrician on board. I try to find him for a very long long time but without success. We met us in 1982(end of june,beginning july) at CANNES (FRANCE). One of his friend was Lt Steve SUTTON (called "jumping beer").Can you help me? If you can't, know you a means for me to find him. Thanks for advance for your assistance. Your site is very interresting and also very complete. I visited the ship in 1982 and I have a marvellous memory of it and also pictures. Maryline Hermand <m.hermand@swing.be> - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 13:40:36 (EDT) Hey all you roof rats, served 83-86,looking for Nick Mashburn,Jethro..last I heard Scally was in New York still. Jonesy wasssssup!! Resigning for 2002 seeeeya Bob Stapp <de32001_rs@hotmail.com> - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 00:59:04 (EDT) I served on the Coral Sea from Nov '97- March '90 in V-2 Division on Catapult 2. My first assignment was the steaming hot, very noisy "Water Brakes". Any shipmates who visited the weigh room know where the water brakes were located. I had an interesting time while on the Coral Sea. I transferred to the Theodore Roosevelt in April '90 after 30 days of leave. I've heard a lot of bad comments about the Coral Sea from other squids but the good thing about it was that she was just as good as any other ship in the fleet! Yeah, I like many other shipmates have had comments while serving on the Coral Sea. But after maturing, I'm happy to have been apart of her history. Now that I'm married w/ 4 kids, I have a lot of sea stories to tell. I'm blessed by the Lord Jesus to be able to tell them my stories. ABE3 Anthony Bryant <anthonybryant1@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, August 20, 2002 at 12:34:42 (EDT) E-mail me you ol swabs EM-2 Bob Berg <bobby_berg@yahoo.com> - Monday, August 19, 2002 at 18:10:52 (EDT) I serve with VF-154 from '61-'63. made the WestPac cruise from '61-'62. This was the now famous "lost elevator" cruise. I was on the hanger deck in the chow line when the stuff hit the fan. A large amountr of water came on board (caused by the spash) but otherwise it was a fairly routine elevator loss. The bo'son's mate whistled "#3 elevator departing" We all had a laugh, once we realized no one was lost. "Norman" and "Runaway" were hit tunes and, of course, when I hear either on the Oldies station, I flash back to pulling into NAS Alameda. Rodney A. Gonzalez <rodney_gonzalez@hotmail.com> - Monday, August 19, 2002 at 07:07:48 (EDT) V-1 Division 65-68 Blue Shirt, Fly one, Elevator Operator, Spotter, Flight Deck Control. I remember: Boll Weavels in the bread, Olongapo, Hong Kong, Sasebo, Hawaii, Taking the Non-Skid off the Flight Deck. I remember: Larry Gardner fooling around with a Tow Motor and going over the FanTail. Dale Lingle dieing of a Heart Attack, the night a Heat Seeking Missle got loose below decks (12 Guys Burned or Dead), Burying one person at sea, Lt. (Hoot)Gibson, yellow shirt having a Heart Attack, Dieing and being put in the Cold Storage Locker until he could be picked up. I remember: The A-3D that cold catted and went off the end of the bow, One of the first times I remember seeing a REPLAY, every day for a week lol. The plane that ran out of fuel and he was told to go around again ? He's still sitting in is AirCraft on the bottom of the ocean. Anyone know KEN PLATTE - V-1 YEOMAN if that is the right word Larry and Dale are on the wall, I've been there and seen it. Gibson is not ? James (Jim) Heany <JHEANY6760@AOL.COM> - Sunday, August 18, 2002 at 20:47:51 (EDT) I own a boat I believe was the liberty launch and am currently restoring her i would like information on her or if anyone is interested in this boat Arthur Martin <kinguther_2000@yahoo.com> - Saturday, August 17, 2002 at 23:44:07 (EDT) Signing in again for this year ,Was on from jan.74- june77 Worked in 4 main Engine .Worked with allot of great guys knew it then know it now,Had allot of fun saw allot of places ,Worked hard and played hard. JR are you out there? Bob(Stew) Stewart <nightstew@aol.com> - Saturday, August 17, 2002 at 00:08:06 (EDT) My father, Russell G. Prather, USN Retired, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2002.(The day of mom and dad's 53rd wedding anniversary) He served on the Coral Sea in HU-1 on a Far East Cruise from 1961-62. I was sitting here with him the day we found this website, 1/20/2001. He was so excited to find this site and re-live some memories. He was buried at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Saint Paul, Minnesota with full military honors. Dad was very proud to have served his country for 22 years during WWII, Korea and Vietnam. I know he corresponded with a few of his shipmates, via e-mail. His family, friends and shipmates all miss him dearly. Jim Prather <jamesaprather@mn.rr.com> - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 09:14:19 (EDT) Served aboard from 81-85 E-div.....interested in hearing from those from E-div during that time Randy VanSickle <elect73@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 23:14:31 (EDT) Served aboard her from 12/64 through 6/67. Was in GM Division. Launched the first air attack against Vietnam in 1965. Love that boat. Got lots of memorabilia and carrier publications from those days, including many of the "Sea Breeze" editions. Would be glad to share them with anyone that would enjoy them. Lots of crewmember names that don't show up on the various web sites. David E. Cisek <spotchek@4dcomm.com> - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 21:58:20 (EDT) Served on the ship from 1973-1976 in the engine,pump and generator room # 4. Looking for old shipmates that hung out together. Maybe we could get together some time for a little reunion and talk old times. Randy "Sid" Coulson <coulson@midwest.net> - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 09:50:51 (EDT) I was in the wacky M-2 division 1980-1983.What a group of guys! Lots of fun times in Subic, Thailand, etc.Thanks to all the guys:Jeff Gumina, George Ruess,Keith Huard,Mike Johnson,Jim Tucker,Matt Phelps,Bob Guilda,Earl Miller,Ivan Gregory, Greg Calef,Walter Speck,Jeff Divine, Rick Thom etc. You guys made it worth while! Carl Erickson <coralc43@aol.com> - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 23:47:20 (EDT) I SERVED ON THE RE-COMMISSIONING CREW IN 1959-1963. IN V-1 DIV., ALSO PLAYED DRUMS IN ONE OF THE DIVISION BANDS. HOPE TO HEAR FROM ANY FRIENDS OUT THERE. DAVID A. MELTON <DAMSR@KCONLINE.COM> - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 20:01:15 (EDT) Served as an Operations Specialist onboard the Coral Sea from 1975-1979. Tony Pynes <tpynes@yahoo.com> - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 10:03:42 (EDT) Fine site. Will pass onto my father Stan "Ski" Wyszynski Cpl USMC, VMF-122 53-57. He served aboard her,with VMF-122(FJ2's)in the Med. He will enjoy this! C.E. "Ski" Wyszynski <skiusmc@fast.net> - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 05:17:24 (EDT) Fine site. Will pass onto my father Stan "Ski" Wyszynski Cpl USMC, VMF-122 53-57. He served aboard her,with VMF-122(FJ2's)in the Med. He will enjoy this! C.E. "Ski" Wyszynski <skiusmc@fast.net> - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 05:17:11 (EDT) served aboard the ageless warrior 85-88.worked in e division as an electricians mate.had many good times on two med cruises and a trip to halifax. em3scotttaylor <scottvolt1@earthlink.net> - Sunday, August 11, 2002 at 22:09:20 (EDT) HERE'S TO YOU ALL!!! GOD BLESS! RIGHT NOW, I AM TOTALLY REBUILDING THE USS CORAL SEA'S LIBERTY LAUNCH, IN A PLACE CALLED WALNUT GROVE, CALIFORNIA. LONG MAY SHE FLOAT. LONG MAY THE FLAG OF OUR GREAT COUNTRY WAVE! MAY FREEDOM ALWAYS BE THE AMERICAN WAY OF LIFE! OOORAH! SEMPER-FI!! EAGLE aka:WHITEPLAGUE S-SGT D.D.STEWART/USMC <whiteplague@darksites.com> - Saturday, August 10, 2002 at 18:45:19 (EDT) MM in "A" Gang 85-89. Just checkin' in, like I do every so often. I do have to wonder, though...the Dependants Cruise in '89...man, I was the only guy PQS qualified for the anchor windlass, and when we were dropping anchor, I went forward to check on my newbie watchstander, only to find him and Chief Ferguson beating the hell out of each other. The kid had the Chief by the tie wrapped around the shaft brake and every time he pulled it, the Chief's head smacked into it, while the Chief had him by the throat. Had to see it to believe it. About soiled myself. Anyway, the kid ran straight to the MAA and the Chief went to mast. I'll always wonder if Fergy ever made Senior after that stunt...you out there, Fergy? Jon Allen <kalakala_1@hotmail.com> - Friday, August 09, 2002 at 15:55:51 (EDT) My grandfather served on the Coral Sea sometime in the 50's. He is Mitchel Bennett; I believe he was known as "Benny". Sure would love to hear some good stories about him. He is still alive and is not only kicking, but working circles around his kids and grandkids! robin - Friday, August 09, 2002 at 12:03:56 (EDT) "Puckett" was a sailor frm VAH-2 who jumped ship on the way to Sydney after Pearl when he was sentenced to the brig during the 1963 WESTPAC cruise. Some day the saga of "Pucket"s desertion (and probable death) will be solved but I'm still looking for clues from anybody who might know. Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 01:01:48 (EDT) I was part of V-3 Division from 86-90.Pus part of the decom crew. Richard Latimer <Rlatime@excite.com> - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 22:12:05 (EDT) Served 1969-1972 Was in V-2 division cat#2. A lot of work on that ship but had alot of fun overseas, hunters point, and Alameda. Great site. Roger Ryba <rlryba@wiktel.com> - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 17:28:19 (EDT) Served 1971-1974 "R" Division in the Metal Shop under Chief Harris and 1st Class Harris. Lots of great memories. Looking for any of the old gang from "R", "B" or "A"Division. Anybody ever here of Rick Crowe, Jerry Tyler, Steve Imel (Fred), Danny Kerr, or Danny White? Let me know. Jim Sorensen <jsorensen@charter.net> - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 07:52:06 (EDT) Served 81-83, A Division, Hydraulics shop (EA01) This site sure sparks some fine, fun memories....MAX Liberty in Pattaya Beach for New Year's 1982 after 102 days in the IO....great times... S.E.Donelson <sdon11@attbi.com> - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 16:33:18 (EDT) I served on the Coral Sea 1971-1974 and just wanted to say "Thanks" for the web site. It sure brings back a lot of memories. Jim Sorensen <jsorensen@charter.net> - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 23:35:52 (EDT) 1954 Med. cruise with VF-11 Red Rippers. Have signed in before, but needed to update my email address. Hey, Mike Jones, where are you? Lost your email address. Lyle J. Howard <brbrshpr@home.msen.com> - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 15:19:51 (EDT) I SERVED ONBOARD FROM 1984-1988.I WAS JUST LOOKING TO SEE IF I COULD COME ACROSS ANY OF THE OLD A-GANG.SORRY,SOME OF THE NAMES I COULDNT PLACE.I WORKED IN THE O2n2 PLANTS.THIS IS TO JON ALLEN,DONT REMEMBER THE NAME BUT DO REMEMBER ALL THE POKER GAMES IN THE PLANT.I HOPE TO SEE SOME MORE OF THE A-TEAM LISTED SOON. TOO;LARRY GRAVESON,I TRIED TO LOOK YOU UP,BUT HAD NO LUCK.YOU WAS/ARE A GOOD FRIEND.IF YOU HAPPEN TO SEE THIS DROP ME A LINE.P.S. DO YOU REMEMBER THE GIRLS IN TOULON,FRANCE?HOPE TO HERE FROM YOU SOON!!! richard a stedman <snooks@ivnet.com> - Friday, August 02, 2002 at 20:10:18 (EDT) My step-father, Robert W. Sumrell, served aboard the Coral Sea, 1967-1968 as an MM3 working with the nuclear reactor. To my dismay, I have lost his copy of the cruise book for that cruise. If anyone has an extra to sell, please contact me at masumrell@netzero.net. Thanks, Mike Sumrell Raeford, NC Mike Sumrell <masumrell@netzero.net> - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 16:06:11 (EDT) Hey great web page. Really enjoyed it, brought back some old memories. Would like to find a couple old buddies, If any one knows where or how to get a hold of them would appericate any info. on them, Kenneth Richards, or Thomas Fortner. On the ship around 1987 - to - 1990, I was boiler tech. Served my time on the ship in 4 charlie boiler room. Would really like to get in touch with any one that served with me. Matt Cates (Mongo) <matt__cates@hotmail.com> - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 12:05:00 (EDT) I served aboard the Coral Sea from 1971 to my retirement in 1973. Duty was as Captain's Writer, Printing Officer, and closed circuit TV host of a program called "The Coral Sea Corral." Later served as Admin Assistant. My skippers were Captain Harris and Captain Peck. James T. Harden, Sr. <jharden@3-cities.com> - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 11:38:25 (EDT) I was on Her from 73 to 76, July 4 1976 was proud day, We where tied up on the San Fransico side and had open ship to the City, What a way to spend the 200th brithday of our country. Rober Dodson SN Robert Dodson <rwd5557 @ AOL> - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 11:22:23 (EDT) Didn't perform a visual spellcheck on 7/29/2002 posting. Hardly ever present a misspelled word. The error was discharged spelled incorrectly. Charles E. Barkwell <cbarkwell2@msn.com> - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 22:33:19 (EDT) Served in V-3 Division 1973 to 1976 (July 26). Honorably Diccharged. Let a Snipe carry my Coral-Sea Yearbook home. We were both out of service and working at Long Beachs' Naval Shipyard. He never returned it. I wish that I still had that book. Charles E. Barkwell <cbarkwell2@msn.com> - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 05:35:35 (EDT) How could I forget my first duty assignment. I reported to the Coral Sea in Feb. 1979 straight out of Grake Lakes, and young 18 yeard old kid from Gettysburg, PA. I did four years onboard as a Radioman. I saw allot of things, it was a great experience. I made two WestPac's, allot of friends and allot of sea time in between. I thought I was getting out after my first enlistment but ended up retiring in 1998 as RMC(AW). It was a great 20 years ! Thanks for this webiste, it's great! Mike Kennedy <mike.kennedy@wrx-us.com> - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 12:39:16 (EDT) Thanks for the great tribute site. Just for the info, Humbolt State University here in northern Calif. has its own deep sea research ship. Its the R/V Coral Sea. As for me, I still have mixed emotions about the Coral Sea even after all these years. As the poet said, it was the best of times and the worst of times. Thanks again. Tim Lubecki , ABH3 V-1 Div. 73-77 - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 22:08:53 (EDT) You have put a lot of effort into this wonderful website! Charlie Taliaferro <charles@kitchentablegang.org> - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 09:36:17 (EDT) My Father, John H. ruehle served aboard the Coral Sea from 1965-66 in the Marine detachment. He passed on Feb 5, 1995. john ruehle <john ruehle@earthlink.net> - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 18:02:53 (EDT) was aboard 1968-69 as a PC. Dr. Jay M. Roth PhD <jaaybird1@msn.com> - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 17:23:08 (EDT) I was in VF151 and came abord the Coral Sea Oct 1968 in a C3. Made two crues 68-69 and 69-70. Spent most of 69-70 cruse in cubi bulkhead as bingo crew for VF 151. I was an AME PO 3. Shop was just forward of elevator #1. One of the stories about Lossing one of our F4 Was a great loss to us. We were three days out of frisco and were lonching all of our birds to Dago and home station. The A/C in question was flower by our comander. The back seter was our maintance officer. this was his last filght. He was to retire within a few days of returning. His wife and family ware all wating for him. The A/C experansed a cold cat and they Ejected. The back seater the Maintance officer hit the very ramp on a parcked G4 and was drug off of the fantail into the boil never to be seen again. Mike Kelly <oneekelly@aol.com> - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 02:03:51 (EDT) nov 1973-aug 1976 boiler Allen Ross <akross@chartermi.net> - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 21:48:18 (EDT) I served aboard in 1955,56,57 making trips to the Med. and was aboard during the Suez canal crisis when all the planes were mustered to flight quarters and formed in a circle on the flight deck with engines on, so the Skipper could use the thrust to help us in the engine rooms control the ship through the Straights of the suez canal. Anyone who served at that time in "Mike" division let me hear from you.. Regards to all-- wayne brooks Wayne D. Brooks MM3 <gbac1@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 01:44:28 (EDT) I served onboard the Coral Sea from 11-77 thru 11-81. I was an ET in OE div. It is great to come across this site. thanks Michael L. Walton <chromedome42@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 11:22:29 (EDT) aboard 1952 to 1954 anthony a. gaeta <anthony.coralseacvb@verizon.net> - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 06:35:24 (EDT) Lots of comments from lots of sources about "Puckett", the kid who jumped ship between Pearl and Sydney during the 1963 cruise - I'm still looking. X Division MAA Yeoman, Later Captain's Office. Best source tells me Pucket was from VAH-2 out of Whidbey Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 23:56:21 (EDT) I worked in the W-div for the best part of two years in 1960-1961 NW3 Van W Cowan <Vcowan@aol.com> - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 19:29:05 (EDT) AK2 ships company S-6 division 1983-1987. Once walked 32 kneekockers to find a working head. Looking for AK2 Rob Garber, AKCM Alan Foster, AKC Sieber, AKC Sexe from HS-17. Charles Finger <chasf@megalink.net> - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 13:04:36 (EDT) SEREVED ON USS CORAL SEA,1965,VAH-2 ROYAL RAMPANTS,LOOKING FOR OTHERS. JOHN J. HASSELBACH AMS-2 <johnhasselbach@yahoo.com> - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 12:32:32 (EDT) SEREVED ON USS CORAL SEA,1965,VAH-2 ROYAL RAMPANTS,LOOKING FOR OTHERS. JOHN J. HASSELBACH AMS-2 <johnhasselbach@yahoo.com> - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 12:15:34 (EDT) Served aboard the Coral Sea 1974/1975 cruise. I was in the worlds best fighter squadron VF 111, worked in the power plant shop. What memorys, remember leaving Subic Bay standing in line for chow not realizing I was in the clap line. The clap line was actually longer then the chow line. Hope everybody was cured. Robert Swick <Robert.Swick@Honeywell.com> - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 11:23:10 (EDT) Sorry. I entered the wrong email address yesterday. I would like to hear from anyone who was in R division from 12/73 to 8/77 to talk about the old days. Bob Stanley <stanleyre@psns.navy.mil> - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 16:38:25 (EDT) I was proud to serve on Coral Sea from June 1987 - March 1990. I was assigned to V-4 division. I have to say see was the best ship I ever served on. Any grapes from there drop me a line. Scott Swack <swacksg@kennedy.navy,mil> - Thursday, July 11, 2002 at 21:35:03 (EDT) I was invited aboard the Coral Sea one morning for breakfast. That was sometime in June or July 1966, she was berthed in Alameda at the time. This may help to pinpoint the date...as we went back ashore the USS Hancock was just docking opposite, at the same pier as the Coral Sea. The Hancock was just back from Vietnam. Anyone on board at the time and remembers the date? Pat Johnston <bootstrap23@mac.com> - Thursday, July 11, 2002 at 17:45:12 (EDT) Served in VF-151 from 1962-1966. Worked in AE shop. Discharged as AE2. Live in South Carolina. Enjoyed my navy days very much, especially the 1963 cruise to Australia and Japan. The 1965 cruise was intirely differant. Love to hear from anyone who was in VF-151 during this time frame. Looking for Phillip Locke who was also an AE.He was from Huntsville, Ala. Enjoy this site very much. Reading it brings back a lot of memories. Often wondered what happened to Puckett also. Howard McCoy <Teresa@emeraldis.com> - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 01:02:55 (EDT) I served aboard the Coral Sea 1n '63 and '64. I picked up the ship in Japan when she returned form Australia. I was a Hospital Corpsman (H Division). I was the "KID" that was assigned to give a series of first-aid presentations to each & every division on the ship. John T. Lynch <jlynch@prodigy.net> - Tuesday, July 09, 2002 at 21:42:08 (EDT) I visited the USS coral sea in 1969. I new Randy Lisewski from Chicago, Richard Gauthier, Tom Stovall from Kansas and Felix Mata from LA. Great times we had, please get in touch if anyone knows the whereabout of these guys. MaggieJones <jones@cushing55.fsnet/co.uk> - Monday, July 08, 2002 at 19:09:00 (EDT) NECK! Paul Dickey <Pauld@texas.net> - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 18:45:39 (EDT) I WAS ABOARD THE USS CORAL SEA FROM MAY 1952 THRU JAN 1954. I WAS IN OPERATIONS DIVISION RM3. WHEN IS CORAL SEA!S REUNION THIS YEAR? I LIVE IN SALT LAKE CITY,UTAH.ANY INFORMATION WOULD BE APPRECIATED. GARY O HOGAN <K7PDN@EARTHLINK.NET> - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 14:32:40 (EDT) I served aboard the Coral Sea from 01/81 to 12/85. I was a Fresh Air Snipe leaving the ship during the 85-86 Med Cruise as Work Center Sup. of A Division Hydraulics Shop. I worked in Hydraulics and Auxilliaries shops while aboard. I am looking for any A Gangers and R Division people of the 81-85 era. Feel free to contact me at the above email addresses. I truly enjoyed my time onboard San Francisco's Own. The Web site is GREAT. I will look through my things to see if any were missed by your site. I only wish the ship had not been scrapped. She definitely lived long and hard. Thanks for saving part of her Great History with this site. Robert S. Webber, Jr. X-Machinistmate Second Class \ USS Coral Sea \ A Division \ Hydraulics & Auxilliaries Shops Robert S. Webber, Jr. <RSWKDW@msn.com or RSWJKDW@excite.com> - Friday, July 05, 2002 at 18:24:01 (EDT) USS Coral Sea Served: 81-86 Rating: MM2 Robert S. Webber, Jr. <RSWKDW@msn.com> - Thursday, July 04, 2002 at 19:43:09 (EDT) My husband Sidney H. Moad was aboard the USS Coral Sea from 1962 to 1966 just before the second tour of VietNam. I am looking for a listing of the ships company for the first tour of duty of VietNam, 12/7/64 to 11/1/65. Can you help me?? I am in need of it to prove Sid was aboard due to his dying of cancer last year, it was malignant lymphona, and I am intitled to DIC... the VA seems not to be able to keep ahold of the records we submitted to them before Sid died showing he was in VietNam during this period, and it was suggested that I look for it on the net. So far I have come up blank. Is there such a thing available....? I thank you for your attention to this, and any help you can give me. Sid was denied DIA, because they could not keep ahold of his records. Diana J. Moad, widow to Sidney H. Moad USS Coral Sea, CVA-43 airman, Div.V, launch and recovery. My e-mail address is moad6328@prodigy.net Diana J. Moad <moad6328@prodigy.net> - Tuesday, July 02, 2002 at 19:28:41 (EDT) My husband Sidney H. Moad was aboard the USS Coral Sea from 1962 to 1966 just before the second tour of VietNam. I am looking for a listing of the ships company for the first tour of duty of VietNam, 12/7/64 to 11/1/65. Can you help me?? I am in need of it to prove Sid was aboard due to his dying of cancer last year, it was malignant lymphona, and I am intitled to DIC... the VA seems not to be able to keep ahold of the records we submitted to them before Sid died showing he was in VietNam during this period, and it was suggested that I look for it on the net. So far I have come up blank. Is there such a thing available....? I thank you for your attention to this, and any help you can give me. Sid was denied DIA, because they could not keep ahold of his records. Diana J. Moad, widow to Sidney H. Moad USS Coral Sea, CVA-43 airman, Div.V, launch and recovery. Diana J. Moad <moad6328@prodigy.net> - Tuesday, July 02, 2002 at 19:27:24 (EDT) Served aboard from 1982-1986 Was assigned to B-1 Div home of the easy steamers. Any old buddies out there drop me an e-mail. Donnie Brownlee <dbrownlee5@juno.com> - Tuesday, July 02, 2002 at 08:06:20 (EDT) On board July61 through Dec62 Westpac July61 to Jan 62 LtJG William Bennett <DDOMOM5@aol.com> - Monday, July 01, 2002 at 18:06:41 (EDT) Served aboard her with AIMD and VMFA-323 WestPAC 1979/1980. 102 consecutive at-sea days in the Indian Ocean. Rudy Fox <rudy.fox@wcom.com> - Monday, July 01, 2002 at 15:25:14 (EDT) What a Beautiful website the Coral Sea is really great I do visit site often just love each visit,This site is well done the webmaster should be very proud please visit my site see all the military links photos the sons$Daughters page the on line Decation,yes cheap inkjet cartridges on site My url is http://www.bgwholesale.freeservers.com Thanks Sgt Wilson 11th A/c 3rd sq K-Troop Berlin wall crises 59 through 62 Bernie <bgw673@aol.com> - Sunday, June 30, 2002 at 08:51:04 (EDT) 86-DECOM V-1 Division Remember the Halifax trips! Remember the first time passing under the Straights of Messina? Remember the standing alone on the bow at night and hearing the waves rushing at the keel? Remember getting getting caught sleeping on "hot tractor"? R. the smell of JP5 in the morning? R. when Arroyo got moved around so much in the Air Dept, that it didn't matter if he came on the last cruise with us? R when we found out that Master Chief Miller was coming back, again? R. how you felt when you found out that Chief Murray was gonna die of some strange illness? Remember Chief MacCardell saying, "I didn't hook yoo up, yoo hook yoo OWNSELF UP, joker!" Remember the Portsmouth yards, having to walk in a towel 20 kneeknockers foward to a shower with a nozel that only had STEAM? Remember Wanless's 20th time to Captains Mast? R. spraying Gallagher with a waterbottle while asleep because he was snoring so loud? R Dibiase repeatedly calling onto the Officers Brow, "hey asshole" then hiding? R. how life is, when you just don't know how good it really is. I just love to reminice the stupid little things we did about our Maru. Any of my timer buddies out there, I'd love to hear from you. ABH3 Paul Carrizales (Tractor King) <http://www.americanprestigephotography.com/american.htm> - Sunday, June 30, 2002 at 02:06:02 (EDT) Hi! Just wondering if any of you may have known my father, Marty "Crazy" Elsken, who served as a pilot with VFA-132...not definete on the years...but I believe somewhere between 85-89. Jennifer Elsken <jen_e2@hotmail.com> - Saturday, June 29, 2002 at 17:48:05 (EDT) I SERVED ABOURD THE OLD LADY ...M-2 DIV. #2 ENG. RM LONGEST SHAFT BEST SCREW FROM 1979- 1983. MADE 2 WEST PACS AND A WORLD CRUISE ANY OLD SHIPMATES ..E-MAIL ME, I HADE SOME GREAT TIMES THIER AND SOME NOT SO GREAT TIMES. JEFF DE VINE <GOLDENNUGGET5@MSN.COM> - Friday, June 28, 2002 at 10:24:13 (EDT) very nice keep up the good work sgt wilson ret 11th A/C 3RD SQ K Troop Germany Berlin crisis 59 through 62 Bernie <bgw673@aol.com> - Thursday, June 27, 2002 at 19:01:36 (EDT) m1 div 1985-1986 billy jeter <b_jeter@hotmail.com> - Thursday, June 27, 2002 at 17:32:40 (EDT) I served aboard Coral Sea in the Public Affairs/Information Office as a journalist from 1964-1966. I was editor of the ship's newspaper during that period of time. I would like to hear from any old friends from that era. Manny Perez and Jon Hagerman if you are out there please contact me. Les Jackson Les Jackson <LLJackson2503@aol.com> - Monday, June 24, 2002 at 15:26:57 (EDT) I was on the coral sea from 1981 to 1983 with VA 97. That was one hell of a ride to see the world. I just made one westpac in 82/83. Lance Demicilio <lvdemo@aol.com> - Monday, June 24, 2002 at 11:19:04 (EDT) Good job,I worked in #2 Engine Rm.She was a GRAND OLE LADY, Thanks, SA Sandy A. Ashlock,MM3 63-66 <Sanash-44@Aol.com> - Monday, June 24, 2002 at 01:13:04 (EDT) Hi, Thanks for letting me sign in. I served aboard the Coral Sea from 1948 to 1952 in the R Div. I have a lot of fond memories and am still in touch with some of the people I served with. After the shake down cruise I was on the Maiden Voyage to New York City. Richard A. MarcouxDC 3 <ram911@strato.net> - Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 20:38:32 (EDT) I served on board from 1984 till April 8 1988.I was in V1 div.Crash and salvage.I was so glad to get off the ship,I thought it was hell on earth.As I look back on all the fun times I forgot all about the rust,and needle guns. God speed and God Bless America,and all of our troops,and sailors keeping this great land the"Home of the Free!" Charles Beneventi <bnvnt@msn.com> - Friday, June 21, 2002 at 10:02:01 (EDT) 1949. Any Bm's or Gm's still around? John W. Richardson <Jrichar193@aol.com> - Monday, June 17, 2002 at 23:35:45 (EDT) Just updating my contact info. Upper Deck Lighting shop. Looking for any of the guys who used to keep the fans and lights working. I remember doing float tests on floor poslishers. If it floated it was worth fixing, if not ---. I was also in New London Conn. for shore duty in 67-68 is anyone out there was there as well. Russ Poole EM3 68-69 <russpoole@charter.net> - Sunday, June 16, 2002 at 19:20:58 (EDT) 81 - 83 AIMD IM-3 W/C 650/690 - Just checking in for another year. Hard to believe that almost 20 years has gone by since I last saluted towards the her fantail for the last time. Ken Sousa <sousak@whidbey.net> - Friday, June 14, 2002 at 23:08:46 (EDT) Ships company (OC Division) March 1982 till March 1985. World Cruise. Hello to fellow Coral Maru mates; Brad Vandiver, Matt Sullivan, Kenny Rogers, Robert Parish, Fred, Bob, Don Cummings, so many more whose faces I see but names I'm not recalling. Micheal Negovan <mnegovan@yahoo.com> - Thursday, June 13, 2002 at 15:32:09 (EDT) Served Aug80 - Nov81 in A-Division Joe McCabe <coralmaru43@aol.com> - Wednesday, June 12, 2002 at 03:42:05 (EDT) Served Aug80-Nov81 in A-division. Joe McCabe <coralmaru43> - Wednesday, June 12, 2002 at 03:40:01 (EDT) 1962 - 1964 X Division MAA Yeoman, later Captain's Office - still looking for info on Puckett from VAH-2 who jumped ship - at sea - between Pearl and Sydney on the 1963 cruise and was never seen again. Some say he's a king on some island in the South Pacific, others say he was fish bait and still others say his buddies hid him for six months until we came back to the states and he's alive and well in Seattle. Any thoughts, drop a note. Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Wednesday, June 12, 2002 at 00:00:10 (EDT) YEARBOOK FOR SALE. USS Coral Sea Yearbook, 1965 Feb 2-May 28. Very Good cond. $199. Lots of interesting photos and comments by the yearbook staff. Contact me via email or phone 510 523-5031 if interested. Alameda, CA. Fred Felker <ffelker@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, June 11, 2002 at 11:12:43 (EDT) I came to this site looking for information on my Dad. He was on the Coral Sea from 71 thru 74 I think it was. He was based out of NAS Lemoore in Fresno, Ca. HIs name is Charlie Thomas. I don't know what his job was on the Coral Sea, nor the names of anyone he may have known. He died 2 years ago and I am trying to salvage all the memories of him I can for my daughter, whom he never got to meet. If anyone can help me, please contact me. Thank you and God Bless erin thomas <tinkerbeel@aol.com> - Sunday, June 09, 2002 at 02:45:35 (EDT) I WAS ABOARD 1977- 1981, WAS IN #3 ENGINE ROOM, AM ALWAYS LOOKING FOR OLD SHIP MATES FROM THEM DAYS. I LIVE IN THE SAN FRANSISCO BAY AREA, ESPECIALLY LOOKING FOR DOUG KAUFMANN, & RICK MARTIR CORTEZ, ALTHOUGH ANYONE WHO REMEMBERS ME FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ME, GREAT SITE, THANKS. FRANK BIONDO <TRUKINDOODAMAN@MSN.COM> - Friday, June 07, 2002 at 23:07:54 (EDT) Greetings, I had the pleasure of serving on Coral Sea from 1971-1974. I was assistant legal officer, and later main engines officer. I also stood bridge watches as office of the deck. Thanks for putting this website together. Eric C. Okerson <eokerson@graydon.com> - Friday, June 07, 2002 at 12:55:09 (EDT) Served aboard the Coral Maru from Dec77 to Jan81. Made the 79-80 cruise with the 102day at sea period. Worked in IM3 Div, w/c610 as a radio tech. We had some kick-ass liberty that cruise. PI, Pusan, Korea, Thailand, Singapore and PI again. Of all the cruises I made later, that was the one that set the bar. Anybody out there still? How about it Billy Feltner, Mac? ATC VAN H RULE (RET) <vanrule@clearskye.net> - Thursday, June 06, 2002 at 20:09:40 (EDT) I SERVED ABOARD THE CORAL SEA (cva-43) FROM 05-71 TO 01-76, I WAS ASSIGNED TO 'B' DIVISON WHERE I WORKED IN THE OIL&WATER SHACK,BOTH FOWARD AND AFT EVAPORATOR RMS,2B AND3C FIREROOMS JOHN (JACK) E. GRIFFIN <GRIFFINJOHN316@AOL.COM> - Wednesday, June 05, 2002 at 20:27:09 (EDT) I served aboard the Lady from Apr.73 till Mar. 75 In G Div. I have been trying to find The where abouts of two of the guys I was with the names are ED WINTERS & PETER MILLEY If any one Knows where they are have them E - mail me @ john4755blrdr@yahoo.com John A. Worster <john4755blrdr@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, June 04, 2002 at 15:13:05 (EDT) Have signed on before but am still looking for anyone who might know the where-abouts of Dennis "Wooley" Woolworth who was in X Div (Personnel Office) on the 61 - 62 westpac cruise. I made the 60-61 cruise with VAH-2 and the 61-62 cruise with ships company (X divison). Have many fond memories of liberty calls and shipmates. Please contact me with any info on Wooley or anyone else in X division during that era. Thanks! Hap Darwin "Hap" Litzell <mrhap@baldwin-telecom.net> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 19:28:19 (EDT) my father's name is steven ray clay. i forgot to tell you that sorry help me out suzanne stinnett <suzieq70@earthlink.net> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 12:55:09 (EDT) my father's name is steven ray clay. i forgot to tell you that sorry help me out suzanne stinnett <suzieq70@earthlink.net> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 12:55:06 (EDT) I'm looking for people that might have servied with my father on the USS coral sea cva 43 from 1968-1969. He was in the evaps b division. So if you are one that might have been serving with him and could give me some information please e-mail me . thanks suzanne stinnett <suzieq70@earthlink.net> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 12:37:47 (EDT) I served aboard the Coral Sea CVA 43 from early 1954 until late 1956 as a MM2 "snipe","M" Division,#4 engineroom. I left her in Naples, Italy at the start of the 56-57 Med cruise. I left with many great memories of times and friends. I'm 69 now and still miss her, my friends and all of the great times. Paul J. Wegfahrt <pwegcs43@webtv.net> - Saturday, June 01, 2002 at 20:55:04 (EDT) The time I spent on The Coral Sea (77-79) was a special time for me. Robert D. kryzsko <stifpolrk@msn.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 18:45:02 (EDT) served aboard coral maru oct 52 july 54 anthony a gaeta rm3 <coralseacvb43@yerizon.net> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 15:29:13 (EDT) I know I've signed on other Coral Sea sites. But, don't believe I have ever seen this one. I spent the 1954 Med cruise aboard the Old Girl in one of the finest squadrons to ever serve the Navy, the VF-11 Red Rippers. You may remember the flaming boar's head with the trailing lightning bolt. I'm proud to say that one of our pilots, Richard F. Gordon Jr. went on to become one of America's Astronauts. He flew a couple of Gemini flights. Then went to the moon as Command Pilot on Apollo 12. However, I make this entry in honor of Ensign Austin O'toole, a Ripper who lost his life crashing into the fantail just prior to the cruise. O'toole was a white hat's officer. He came up through the enlisted ranks to become a pilot. He never forgot where he came from. Keep the nose up Austin, wherever you are. Lyle Howard <howardlj@4netaccess.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 13:40:45 (EDT) Is it just me or do the photos of the scrapping of the ship seem like you are looking at autopsy photos of a loved one? Just wondering. Mark Lynn 87 VA-55 87-88 and 89 cruises - Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 16:00:15 (EDT) Excellant site. Richard Segin <mr.rich4@comcast.net> - Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 14:11:04 (EDT) april 85 to oct 88 was a mr--mm what a trip i will always cherish glen preece <preeceglen@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 09:05:45 (EDT) any snipes out there who were in r-div during 1975-79 got one of us comin to the ozarks this week ....to visit , htfn ellis ... we can talk about the old tug, and the guys we had good times with !!!!anybody hear from the short shit cajun ????rick mouton ???or tim [got some humbolt skunk] potter ???good site ... petey randy [petey] peterson <rpeterson1955@aol.com> - Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 20:39:23 (EDT) M-1 Div. 77-80. Still looking for more of the Snipes I used to run with on liberty, Sweat with on watch and stink with at sea. Miss all you crazy bastards. Doug Cantrell, John Fields, John Morrison, Hal Rogers, Mike Cerreta, Rick Spicer and the rest of that pack. You Barely Trainables too. I miss ya all, and would love to hear from ya. MM2(SW) J.W. Holcomb John W. Holcomb <jwholcomb@kdmcs.com> - Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 02:34:08 (EDT) 9-80 to6-84 V-1 div. Jim Graves <Trsshunter@juno.com> - Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 01:10:53 (EDT) I saw the pic of my squadron's aircraft 500 (double nuts) landing with CAG on board as the last arrested landing aboard the ol' Gal and it got me thinking. Seems that shortly after CAG and our Skipper, Cdr Henson came aboard, the rescue helo (always aloft during any flight ops) made it's approach for landing. Then... as the S-3 approached over the fantail (unusual since they usually approached over the port beam) the bird hovered over the 3 wire, a man leaned out and attatched a 'stinger' (the hook section from an A-6 tail hook) to the winch that is mounted on the side of the helo. The stinger was lowered and the man hanging out of the helo manipulated the cable until the stinger grabbed the wire and gave it a tug. The helo then descended to the deck and out jumps none other than Capt. Allen, the ships Skipper who had been the guy dropping the hook. He just wanted to yank CAG's chain I guess but we all had a good laugh. Mark Lynn VA-55 87-88 and 89 med cruises <drrealty@lycos.com> - Monday, May 27, 2002 at 16:36:50 (EDT) 64 through 65 Ships company. Departed ship the day we got back from overseas. Have bumped into a lot of former ships crews while wearing Coral Sea Ball cap. Heard a lot of stories, most with mixed feelings, but all proud that they served. Same here. Jack Hopson <jhopson@wvi.com> - Monday, May 27, 2002 at 10:21:31 (EDT) Special thanks to the USS Coral Sea Reunion Group for their generous contribution to the USS RANGER MUSEUM FOUNDATION for our efforts to save the USS RANGER CV61 from the scrap heap. We promise a place for a memorial to Coral Sea on Ranger when she is in our possession and officially a museum and Navy Memorial in the Puget Sound area of Washington State. Check our status at http://www.ussrangercv61.org We have a long way to go and a lot of money will be needed to save her, but we can not let her go the way of Coral Sea or so many of our other great carriers. Thanks again all!!! Ken Estes <webmaster@ussrangercv61.org> - Sunday, May 26, 2002 at 17:36:44 (EDT) I am the daughter of a past server on the USS Coral Sea. He served in 1975 and his name is Philippe Noel Keyes. I just wanted to see what he did. Nicole Noel Keyes <phil@mediaone.net> - Sunday, May 26, 2002 at 15:05:13 (EDT) Hello CV-43ers and lovers of the "Doggie Diner",(forward mess). I was on board 1981 West Pac and world Cruise 83' via VA-196. Lots of fond and not so fond memories. God Bless you all!! Rick Hunter <beyondtheblue@msn.com> - Saturday, May 25, 2002 at 02:57:05 (EDT) Good Job! Saw your dockside picture from November 1971. I got new orders and was leaving her about the time the picture was taken. There was on mishap which happened during her drydock stay 1970 or 1971 which cost the life of a BM1 - does anyone remember lowering the anchor chain and the 3" nylon sampson line snapping? Does anyon remenber the BM's name? I remember he was from Guam. Would like to hear from R.C. Livengood, Sam Chambers, James Kane, Wayne Christine or anyone who remembers them. Kelvin Mooney <mooney@iland.net> - Saturday, May 25, 2002 at 01:27:49 (EDT) I served aboard Coral Sea from July 1976 until the end of the westpac in June of 1980. I was in the OE division and worked on the SINS system and later the Tacan and SPS-43. I'd be interested in hearing from any of the guys from OE. Great Site and pics!!! Rick "sag" Sagadin <ncrick@worldnet.att.net> - Friday, May 24, 2002 at 14:23:33 (EDT) ships company, X-Division, 3M Office October 1975-March 1978 Frank Braman (TD2) <fbraman@hotmail.com> - Friday, May 24, 2002 at 11:01:48 (EDT) AO2 Tom Pokora, VF-151/USS Coral Sea/ WestPac 69/70, USS Midway/VF-151/WestPac 71. Terrific site, spent a long time looking for familiar people. Will send pictures from that era. Tom Pokora <Tpokora@aol.com> - Friday, May 24, 2002 at 07:36:01 (EDT) Great site! I was aboard Coral Sea from Sept 69 til July of 70, my first of two Westpac cruises I was an AO2 with VF-151 worked the flight deck on days. Some of my shipmates were David Hudson, Donny Lawrence, Manley, Windyboy, Andy Kopec, Brad Watts, Larry Wilson, Bob Dunlap, Don Brown, Chief Neglia, Peterson, Ron Gragg. Many memories, I took lots of pictures. Tom Pokora <Tpokora@aol.com> - Friday, May 24, 2002 at 04:36:14 (EDT) In Memory of my father Joe E. Beckner(Marine Corps), who served aboard the Coral Sea Joe Beckner Jr. <jbeckner@houchensindustries.com> - Thursday, May 23, 2002 at 13:16:27 (EDT) I'm sending this in memory of Leon John Hill who served on the Coral Sea approximately 1966-68. John died on November 23, 1999 in Syracuse NY. I have his yearbook from the Coral Sea and few other items that he left me. Karen J Websster <kwebster@choiceonemail.com> - Thursday, May 23, 2002 at 12:36:57 (EDT) Great site.....looking for a shipmate of mine when I was aboard from 78-81, his name is Robert Rangel he was a PC and lived in Bakersfield. Anybody with info. don't hesitate to write back...Miss that old boat.... Leo Cardenas, YN3 <cardenas1140@aol.com> - Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at 20:53:05 (EDT) Served in M-1 Division 1985-1988 (two Med cruises). Great site! It's a shame the ship had to be scrapped. Bill Snow <bill_snow@matria.com> - Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at 16:50:49 (EDT) Recently I saw a black and white picture of the Coral Sea alongside the Supply ship USS Aldebaran AF10 replenishing at sea. Unfortunately I could not get a copy of that picture. Is there a chance that in your archives there is a picture of the Coral Sea and the Aldebaran. I would be happy to cover the cost of obtaining that picture from you - my guess is that it was taken in the 50's Donald Raber <raberdon@aol.com> - Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at 16:45:36 (EDT) Love Your site keep up the good work,I'll will visit often and view this very well done site Thanks Bernie 11th A/Crd sq K-Troop Berlin Wall crisis Bernie <bgw673@aol.com> - Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at 10:20:36 (EDT) I served on the Coral Sea from 1954-56. I was with the signal gang and would like to know what happened to some of my buddies, William Fenningan, J.R. McDaniels and Austin A.Jacobs. My nickname was "Sneads" because I came from Snead's Ferry, North Carolina. Raymond J. Melton Jr. <loubill@bellsouth.com> Marathon, Fla. - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 20:51:13 (EDT) I served on the Coral Sea from 1954-56. I was with the signal gang and would like to know what happened to some of my buddies, William Fenningan, J.R. McDaniels and Austin A.Jacobs. My nickname was "Sneads". Raymond J. Melton Jr. <loubill@bellsouth.com> Marathon, Fla. - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 20:47:45 (EDT) i was in g division from 1966 thru 1968 would like to hear from anyone who was in g division at that time thank you. dennis decatur <padewmadew@ejourney.com> - Monday, May 20, 2002 at 18:45:33 (EDT) Served aboard the Coral Sea '52-53. Did the Gitmo shakedown and Mediterranean cruises in '52. The ship set the record for most flying time during that cruise. I am sure that record has since been broken many times over. Many pleasant memories from those days. Edward G. Lambertus <e.lambertus@worldnet.att.net> - Monday, May 20, 2002 at 13:16:32 (EDT) Hey,Get on the ball!Throw me a line.Looking for my mates!V-1 DIV.West-Pac81-82,World Criuse 83!Ship's Company...80-84! Same goes to all you Squadron Pukes,and other Airdales!I found three of you...still looking for more. You can hook me at;eddierburkhardt@hotmail.com....C-YA! Late,YO-YO,Fly Two,Ed. Ed Burkhardt <eddierburkhardt@hotmail.com> - Sunday, May 19, 2002 at 01:37:38 (EDT) Just a note to say hi for this year, signing the log book,and asking anyone who was in V-2 div,cats or gear,(I worked them both)drop a line. Also Al Metz if you read this this is''Jonesy''so drop a note say Hi. Always fun to remeber.I was on from 84-87. Allan Jones <al18roll@aol.com> - Saturday, May 18, 2002 at 15:30:20 (EDT) Just a note to say hi for this year, signing the log book,and asking anyone who was in V-2 div,cats or gear,(I worked them both)drop a line. Also Al Metz if you read this this is''Jonesy''so drop a note say Hi. Always fun to remeber. Allan Jones <al18roll@aol.com> - Saturday, May 18, 2002 at 15:29:44 (EDT) CAN ANY ONE HELP IN LOCATING FRANCIS B. SCHMIDT AND LARRY K. BODFIELD. V1 DIV. 1962. CLIFF HARNESS <hoosier1@webtv.net> - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 18:19:52 (EDT) Goodday mates, I served 82-85 on the Coral Sea, worked with the HT gang in the Hanger Bay pipe shop,God bless the Flying Squad Team, great memories of the world cruise and the years spent on board, anyone working in the shop at that time would love to here from you. It is a shame they took her down! But her memories will live on. God bless all. Jeff Kinnett <jkinnett@providentbank.com> - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 07:28:13 (EDT) Was on board for West Pac in 1968-69 and 69-70 cruises with HC-1 - The "Fleet Angels" Just recently found Nick "Flash" Freischlag and Geoff Miller on the net and have made contact with Flash... anyone else? I would love to hear from all the guys from the cruises or from Imperial Beach! Jim Hawk <jim_hawk2@yahoo.com> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 14:05:04 (EDT) Thankyou to all who have assisted me about the shellback certificate. I have enjoyed reading about the history of the Coral Sea and the men who served with her.My computer crashed so I lost some e-mails that I hadn't replied to so I am very sorry if you didn't receive a word of thanks from me. I was born nearly four years after the Coral Sea was in Sydney, but I believe she was there due to the war in Viet Nam? If anyone can send me info on what your tour in our part of the world was like pls do so. Again thank you Kym from Brisbane Kym <pollock66@ozemail.com.au> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 08:07:00 (EDT) I sent you a e-mail, hpoe to hear from you Jeff Hitt <jchittt0402@msn.com> Center Point, Alabama U.S.A. - Wednesday, May 15, 2002 at 17:26:22 (EDT) hope some my fellow shipmates are alive and well. Maybe someone from my old squadron VA-104 will see this and respond. Grady Pittman <grph@msn.com> Ridgeway, SC USA - Wednesday, May 15, 2002 at 15:30:43 (EDT) hope some my fellow shipmates are alive and well. Maybe someone from my old squadron VA-204 will see this and respond. Grady Pittman <grph@msn.com> Ridgeway, SC USA - Wednesday, May 15, 2002 at 15:29:38 (EDT) Served aboard the coral sea 1948/ 1949 shake down and change of command Gitmo Bay Cuba, also Med cruise. Joseph Policastro <kwpoppop@aol.com> - Wednesday, May 15, 2002 at 10:55:13 (EDT) Was a member of V2-E 1952-1954! Great memories! Great Ship! Great friends! Lee Lee Skipper <reppiks@heathsprings.net> - Tuesday, May 14, 2002 at 19:06:59 (EDT) Hi, I'm looking for anyone that was on the ship from 2/52 to 3/54. My father was an electricians mate 3rd class. His name is David Degen. He will be celabrating his 70th birthday this year and I would love to put him in contact with some one from the Coral Sea. Thanks for your help. E-Mail. Bebug96@aol.com Lynn <bebug96@aol. com> - Tuesday, May 14, 2002 at 10:25:06 (EDT) I WAS A MEMBER OF THE CREW FROM MARCH 1949 TO 1952 IN THE 7TH DIV.AS A 3RD CLASS BM. JOINED USNAVEL RESERVES 1953 TO 1985 RETIRED AS CHIEF PETTY OFFICER James G. Ostrander <CHIEFJIMPEG@AOL.COM> - Monday, May 13, 2002 at 13:09:16 (EDT) I served on this great lady in 71-27 in Nam. I was a flight deck trouble shooter for the metal shop. I loved every minute of the tour except for the time I had a brain fart and walked behind the blast deflector of a A3D whale and almost got blown off the deck.Great fun great memories. Wonderful web site. We were the only Marine squadron on her at that time. We flew the A6A and the KA6 (Tanker) We also flew another A6 that only carried a anti SAM missile.Our sqadron was VMA(AW)224 out of MCAS Cherry Point. NC I would love to hear from any of my Squadron mates. Albert L. Almore <aalmore@always-online.com > - Saturday, May 11, 2002 at 07:48:31 (EDT) OE Division / Main Communications OEO3 Hank Bellomy <jbellomy@att.net> - Friday, May 10, 2002 at 11:57:02 (EDT) GREAT Jimmy Wade Thompson <KC4AZW@AOL.COM> - Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 20:49:54 (EDT) I served in X Division from 1964-1966 in the Public Affairs Office. I would like to hear from anyone who served in X Division during this time. Les Jackson Les Jackson <LLJackson2503@aol.com> - Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 19:58:22 (EDT) served 24 Dec 72 thru 22 April 76 "R" division, Hi to J.T Mcgraw, Pete Peters, "Rosie", Loren, Stewart, Lidell,and in memory "Boudrow" form the litewater crew may some day our paths cross again HT2 Patrick Meyer <slbr@brainerd.net> - Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 17:20:09 (EDT) Served on the Coral Sea 1980-1984 Terry Moonlight <tmoonl@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 14:19:30 (EDT) i just wanted to say hi i enjoy checking in once in a while the only trouble is i don't see much from the 1949 med. cruise but that is going a ways back one of the best things that happened to me was when we spent a few winters in gulf shores alabama and i got to take my grandsons to the pensacola naval air meuseum and they had a great model of the coral sea and i got show them where i slept and worked it was great take care talk to you later Denver Anderson <anderson219@Allegan.net> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 16:38:18 (EDT) CHARLES DICOLA, he was my brother. he was on the coral sea from 1951 to 1955. he died on march 29 2002. he never forgot the coral sea. if anyone remembers him let me know. by E MAIL. I THINK HE WAS A METALSMITH. THANKS FOR THICHANCE TO TELL ABOUT HIM. CHARLES DiCOLA.WAS on the coral sea 1951 to1955 HE PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 29 2002.HE HAD MANY FRIENDS.he was a metalsmith.if you remember him please let me know.he lived in phoenixville pa. he was my brother. violet flynn <dmflyn@webtv.net> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 12:58:42 (EDT) My son, Victor P. Thomas served aboard the USS Coral Sea in 1986 and 1987. My husband and I were in Norfolk the day the ship came back from the Med. We went back to the ship the next day, went aboard and saw where he had worked as an Air Traffic Controller. It was quite an exciting time for us. This website is very interesting and I am glad that I visited it. Lorraine Thomas <REDSRAINAND2@AOL.COM> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 18:42:09 (EDT) Was aboard in 1955 6th Fleet cruise with Detachment VC-8, flying AJ Savages out of Port Lyautey. I'll never forget those cattle trough heads! I was AT2 in ASB shop, and arrived via Lajes and Port Lyautey - while sleeping over in Lajes my prescription eyeglasses were stolen (they had a gold looking inlay), and I wandered around my first carrier blind as a bat! Chuck Huber <charles379@webtv.net> - Saturday, May 04, 2002 at 11:26:42 (EDT) charles served on the coral sea. he was very proud of it, he passed away on march 29 2002. charles j. dicola - Friday, May 03, 2002 at 12:29:47 (EDT) I am compiling an e-mail list of "A" Div. personel from the 1982 to 1985 range, drop me a message with your address, all time period "A" Gangers are welcome!!! Rich Carson <carson1@adelphia.net> - Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at 15:09:31 (EDT) I'm still trying to locate a person by the name of David Taylor who was on board the Coral Sea around 1974-1975. If any one can help me in any way, I would sure appreciate it. I've tried everything and I'm not getting anywhere. Thank you! Joy FIgueroa <alena24@bellsouth> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 15:44:00 (EDT) GREAT TIME ON USS CORAL SEA fEB 17 1955 TO FEB 17 1957 div v3g Jerry Rattigan <oldratman.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 13:31:51 (EDT) Thank you for those of you who have written to me. I was very interested to see the initiation ceremony, (which is very much outlawed in our Navy.) I wish all of you the best from Brisbane Australia - Kym Kym Pollock <pollock66@ozemail.com.au> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 23:22:40 (EDT) Looking for M Division of 1961-1967 Steve Bachus <stgrumpy@aol.com> New Braunfels, TX. usa - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 23:16:21 (EDT) Frank Palumbo RD2 -’61 to ’63 - OI Division (The House of Blue Lights). Thanks for the time and effort you put into this site. Nice to see some names I recognize here. Reading the notes, from people I knew and didn’t know, made me realize one thing. The ship we were all once part of is definitely a part of us. Frank Palumbo <FrankP8750@aol.com> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 22:38:02 (EDT) I was aboard the Coral Sea for a few days after being evacuated to her from the iland of Koh Tang after the Mayaguez incident. I thank her and her crew for being there for us and taking us in like we were brothers. Thank God that you were there. Clark Hale, USMC <haleclark857@aol.com> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 19:33:04 (EDT) GREAT , GREAT , GREAT . CONGRATULATIONS ON A JOB WELL DONE . Dennis Carmody <merle25@msn.com> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 17:47:20 (EDT) I have some pictures that I will try to scan in and send to you. I was on board from 83-86. I have one picure of us returning from Libya with the crew on the flight deck. I believe then VP Bush was on board, along with the SECNAV and a few other bigwigs. It is the medal cerimony from the "Line of Death" cruise. Mark Milligan <wm_milligan@yahoo.com> - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 23:35:04 (EDT) Hi I'm writing from Brisbane, Australia. I was very interested to see the shell back certificate in your gallery of memorabillia. My mum was given one by one of your officer's in the '60's in Sydney, Australia. We dont know where it has gone but I know she will love to see the one on your site.What is the certificate all about I can only remember the pictures not what was written on it.Wishing you all the best from Australia Kym Pollock <pollock66@ozemail.com.au> - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 13:35:27 (EDT) Electronic Warfare OW Division 75-79. Hi to all my shipmates, drop me a line. Michael Cutlip <mike_cutlip@msn.com> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 08:42:03 (EDT) Hi, Great site. I was a crew member of the Coral Maru from Sep 82 to Oct 84. Was assigned to V-2 Div, (Cat 2) as a non rate and then transferred to AIMD Airframes shop after I made AMS3. I made the '83 World cruise. Have many good and bad memories of this great ship. I did see her in Baltimore after they cut the island and flight deck off, what a sad sight. Will dig throught the photo albums and scan some stuff for you when I get time. AD1(aw/nac) T.E. Bass USN(ret). Thomas Bass <fort1729@mhtc.net> - Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 23:40:29 (EDT) One of the best times of my life were spent aboard the Ageless Warrior.(1984-1989) To all of those who served in V-3 division and V-1, I wish you all well. Today and always. Rob Stansfield <Jakar@neteze.com> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 22:28:33 (EDT) I served on the Coral Sea in 1949,made the med cruise ,I was in the gasoline division.I loved every minute I was aboard her--what a great ship she was.I just found this site today,it is great--thanks for all the good work-keep it up.If James Healy would happen to see this would love to hear from him. Don Hepler pappydon@hotmail.com Today is April 24,2002 Don Hepler <pappydon@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 20:49:06 (EDT) WestPac cruise 71-72 USMC Rex Parker <jl22329@excite.com> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 16:31:45 (EDT) Proud to have served on this ship from 1979 to 1982, based at NAS Alameda CA. My rate is (retiring from the Naval Reserves this December) Aviation Support Equipment Technician, First Class. Some SF bay area reserve units now drill on the USS Hornet CV-12, which is a museum, tied up to the same pier as the Coral Sea was. The resemblence is strong and eerie at times !! This site will be bookmarked and I will try to submit items/stories from my time on the ship. Joseph M Rock <underrail@msn.com> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 16:15:32 (EDT) Was with MARDET 1984-1986. Tom Hildebrandt <tomsandra1989@aol.com> - Sunday, April 21, 2002 at 12:29:28 (EDT) EN2 Carranza, Served 83~87 "A" Ganger - Diesels. Left behind alot of friends, were some tough times, too many port and starbords, but wouldn't give any of it back. Would like to here from other "A" Gangers out there. Keep the shinny side up, Joel. Joel Carranza <joel.carranza@pacebus.com> - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 20:12:14 (EDT) The Coral Sea was the first ship I served on, and in my opinion it was the best ship in the Navy. It's a crying shame they destroyed her. With all the fantastic history she would have made a great museum. I was an AO2 With VA-97 from 1982 to 1985 and was aboard the Coral Sea from 1982 to 1983. Unlike most people I loved being at sea. Shortly after the Coral Sea went to the East coast, my squadron was assigned to the Carl Vinson, though the Vinson was a new ship and a good ship, there is no way it could ever replace the Coral Sea. AO2 (Sherbie) Sherburn Wade S. Sherburn (Sherbie) <wsherburn@hotmail.com> - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 00:35:57 (EDT) An amendment to my sign in, I was with VA-97 from 1982 to 1985, I was aboard ship from 1982 till she transfered to the East coast in 1983. AO2 Sherbie Wade S. Sherburn (Sherbie) <wsherburn@hotmail.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 23:47:55 (EDT) The Coral Sea was the first ship I served on, and in my opinion it was the best ship in the Navy. It's a crying shame they destroyed her. With all the fantastic history she would have made a great museum. Wade S. Sherburn (Sherbie) <wsherburn@hotmail.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 23:37:15 (EDT) Iam a plank owner on the old tub had a great time while i spent my three years on her Ihad the pleasure of being one of her first barbers there were seven of us but i havent but one of them i remember he was fred pridgen who now lives in elm city N.C.who i talk to often there arnt to many of the planks left it seems from the guest book but it is good to know there is still interest in the old girl.what else can one say except i want forget maa RHYNE on the mess deck who could John Garrett <john-mae@juno.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 21:49:09 (EDT) Would like to say hello to all of the crew members from the USS Coral Sea Cv43. I served on her from 1984/1988; made two Med. deployments aboard here. Must say that I really enjoyed serving on here and making great friends. Hope to hear from former crew members from W-Division and Mardet, and if any other members would like to contact me feel free to do so. She was a great ship and I had a wonderful experince on her. But I also would like to say it brought tears to my eyes to see her being scrapped up here in Baltimore Maryland. She may have been a old ship but she still had plenty of life and fight left in her. To all of my fellow shipmates take care and god bless you all; may we all look back on the good times we had together. WT2 John Goodman <Goodywt@aol.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 19:06:03 (EDT) I served from late 1959 to 1962 my new email address is bucwhthx2@aol.com I was Known as Buckwheat on the ship in O I div would like to hear from former ship mates. Buck Duane Hicks <bucwhthx2@aol.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 12:49:29 (EDT) my father jim baldinger served on the coral sea from 62 to 66 and i enjoy reading some of the stories from the time he served. keith baldinger <krbaldinger@townisp.com> - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 22:04:21 (EDT) If any of my old friends are out there. Drop me a line and we will swap some sea stories. David Boles MM3 # 4 Engine Room 1964-1968 <dwb@osprey.net> - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 17:57:55 (EDT) PR3 in VAQ 135 for the 72 and 73 cruises. On the LOX crew for the first one and in the squadron for the 2nd. Did a stint as Mess Deck Master at Arms as well. Is Rocky out there? Enjoyed Hong Kong the most. Many good memories and probably some great ones I don't remember. Had a beer at the Zoo club in Da Nang thanx to a CAT and TRAP on the whale. Bob Davis <benbobbo@mindspring.com> - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 17:54:07 (EDT) Would love to hear from anyone who was involved with Protestant Men Of Coral Sea, 1970-72 Steve Clark <sclark@multipro.com> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 18:54:43 (EDT) Ships company 81-83. Flew off the boat in the mediterranian in JUN 83. To this day I still take showers til the hot water gives out, and will refuse to wait in line to eat. Looking for my old pals in IM3 and V4 divs. "If you ain't been to Pattaya you ain't #$@&" Tommie Hicks <homesteader@netburner.net> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 02:42:31 (EDT) Served aboard USS Coral Sea from Dec 1962-DEc 1966. Martin Jerome Funk, Jr. <none> - Monday, April 15, 2002 at 23:40:27 (EDT) V-2 DIV 67 to 70 Jeff Clifton <jcbc444@ameritech.net> - Sunday, April 14, 2002 at 09:03:52 (EDT) NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK! NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK! NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK!NECK! Maury Foil EM3 <maury16891@aol.com> - Saturday, April 13, 2002 at 09:03:30 (EDT) Hello beautiful site thanks for sharing I also would be honored to give you my Patriotic Award Of Honor if you would like to accept it please email me along with this site's address I will send it right over..keep up the excellence! I also would love to introduce a dear friend and a very moving patriotic song -- http://www.vickileeonline.com/dontletusfall.htm -- take care! Claudette <http://www.russclo.com> - Saturday, April 13, 2002 at 06:00:28 (EDT) THIS IS A MOST EXCELLENT SITE! IVE ONLY DISCOVERED IT JUST THE OTHER DAY. YES THE CORALSEA HAS A LOT OF MEMORIES! SHE WAS A FINE SHIP! AND SHE WILL BE REMEMBERED. I SPENT A YEAR AND A HALF OF MY LIFE ON AND OFF THAT SHIP, IN 81-82, AND AM GLAD TO HAVE DONE SO. THANKS TO ALL WHO SERVED ABOARD HER! AND TO ALL THAT WILL HONOR HER MEMORY! IM SADDENED THAT SHE HAD TO BE SCRAPPED, SHE HAD A LOT OF FIGHT LEFT IN HER! mike scrogham <Amikieman@aol.com> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 15:50:07 (EDT) V-1 division 1988-1990 Fly one blue shirt under ABH-1 Laughner Wiliam "Dusty" Kinson <pkinson@flash.net> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 13:22:22 (EDT) Deployed on Coral Sea from 8/66 to 2/67 with Attack Squadron 25 (VA-25). Donald J. Santucci <Don7165@msn.com> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 09:44:16 (EDT) little reed was here!! 1st div deck 84-88 looking for my deckape friends!!!! nick reed <nreed@midtel.net> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 01:30:47 (EDT) 2nd&g div.1965-69 ANDY fud THORN - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 12:02:23 (EDT) Was an Operations Specialist on board the Coral Sea from 2/75-12/76. Just wanted to know if there's any body out there wanting to refresh memories. Francisco Lopez <cotk35@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 12:34:24 (EDT) Just returned to the site after a long absence, reliving some happier moments, checkin out the guest book, looking for old buddies. Served from 84' - 88' in OI division Dave Hubert <davhub@aol.com> - Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 00:02:53 (EDT) Planning to attend the 2002 reunion in Branson, Mo. Hoping to see some of my old shipmates from B-Div and M-Div. from that era. Every reunion has proved to find an old shipmate and revive another memory. If you've never attended one, this one should be a must. Plan extra days in Branson too. You will enjoy it! Steve J. Esser, BTl-B-Div '53-'56 Boiler Repair <stjo@tds.net> - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 22:44:32 (EDT) Sign up for the reunion in Branson, Mo....Like to meet more Eng. Dept mates from my era especially from the oil shack and boiler repair and machinery repair gang. Each reunion has turned up an old acquaintance and revived old memories. Steve J. Esser BTl B-Div '53-'56 <STJO@tds.net> - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 22:36:26 (EDT) Hello swabs! Tony J. Eagen <tjeagen@kvmo.net> Kirksville, Mo USA - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 18:57:17 (EDT) I served aboard the USS Coral Sea for two deployments in the early 1970's with VA-94. My daughter is doing a comparison and contrast paper between todays aircraft carrier which her brother serves on and the aircraft carrier of my time. The USS Coral Sea was a fine ship and I was very proud to have served on her. Howard W. Smith <hwsmith@allwest.net> - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 17:41:18 (EDT) Navy rate-CS/3 S-2-C Div. 54-55 Navy enlistment 1950-55 US Naval Station, Key West, Fl.--USS Hornet CVA-12, USS Coral Sea CVA-43 SFC Geo. F. Kohler USA (ret) <gfk@enter.net> - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 13:09:37 (EDT) Transferred from Midway to Coral Sea after my second Med Cruise. AB3 V-1 Division, Flight Deck Crew. Then three more Med Cruises on Coral Sea, 9-9-50 to 1-2-51, 20-3-51 to 6-10-51 and 19-4-52 to 12-10-52. Good ship! Bob Nelson - Saturday, April 06, 2002 at 21:07:25 (EST) SERVICE 1963-1965 SEE THE WORLD Robert F Brooks mm3 <sgnldy> - Saturday, April 06, 2002 at 13:40:36 (EST) hey dave, got an r-1. brandon, stay outa jail. morvick, you da man. mack, lifer. smcm retired happy and pissed. Had a good time Guy Sitzman <gsitz@aol.com> - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 03:12:26 (EST) My dad was on the USS CORAL SEA in the tonken golf. He was part the VA-94 shrikes. He was an A-7 pilot and i was wondering if anybody knew him his name is Gene or clifford Timmons also properly known as Clifford Eugene Timmons. If you knew him please email me back at kristimmons2@hotmail.com Kristian Timmons <kristimmons2@hotmail.com> - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 00:16:27 (EST) Very good web site Had the chance to see the USS Coral Sea underway a few times from the USS Nassau..it was I believe on its last Med-Cruise summer 1989. Semper Fi Tiernan Leavy <kg4bfr@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 22:51:53 (EST) I served on the uss coral sea from 1965 to 1967. Anyone from that time? David Lambert <kodiak8800@cs.com> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 08:58:20 (EST) I served on the uss coral sea from 1965 to 1967. Anyone from that time? David Lambert <kodiak8800@cs.com> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 08:58:10 (EST) I served on the USS Coral Sea in the Fox Division from September, 1951 until February, 1955. I would like to make contact with anyone who was in the Fox Division at that time. In 1954, I mainted a piece of equipment in CIC. I would also like to make contact with any of the people that worked in CIC at that time. William J. Radogna <wjnr@earthlink.net> - Tuesday, April 02, 2002 at 20:49:01 (EST) I served on Coral Sea from 64-66 as the ship's at sea newspaper editor. I was a journalist assigned to the Public Affairs Office. I would like to make contact with anyone in X-Division during that time. Does anyone know the whereabouts of Lt. Manny Perez or Jon Hagerman of the Post Office? Les Jackson <LLJackson2503@aol.com> - Tuesday, April 02, 2002 at 18:55:26 (EST) served onboard from sept. 1971 till apr.1975. looking for old shipmates. steve mendoza <smen349201@aol.com> - Tuesday, April 02, 2002 at 16:01:02 (EST) Memories of the Coral Sea run through my mind all the time. As a member of her final crew I am proud to see a site dedicated to her. DS3 Derrick L. Burnell <dlburnell@excite.com> - Tuesday, April 02, 2002 at 13:08:16 (EST) Thanks for keeping the site alive. My Dad was on the USS Coral Sea and has great memories of that time period in his life. Some bad, lots of good, I'm sure, but a very memorable time! Patricia Stout <bstout@midsouth.rr.com> - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 21:10:36 (EST) Brings back memories. I served on the Coral Sea in 65-66. Was in the V-2 Division, Hookup man on #2 Cat. Would love to hear from anyone who was in the V-2 Division during that time. Dave LaPorte <dlaporte@roosevelt.edu> - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 16:00:26 (EST) I am a plank owner and was a guest at the decommission. Was wit the air groups on the deployments. Willis W. Cook ADCS usn ret. <Cookiez@c2i1.com> - Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 22:04:54 (EST) Willis W. Cook ADCS usn ret. <Cookiez@c2i1.com> - Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 21:59:43 (EST) I served in V-1 Division, Air Department, chockin' and chaining on the flight deck from 1987-1989. Although at the time, as an 18-year-old kid, I wanted nothing better than to go on to college and leave the Navy behind me, I now look back at those years as some of the proudest moments of my life, and I remember the friends I had in V-1 and throughout the Coral Sea crew as some of the finest men I have ever known. If there are any more of you "deck monkeys" out there from 87-89, or any other times, I'd love to hear from you guys. p.s. one thing I will never miss is drinking and shower water that smelled and tasted like JP-5. Yecch. Greg Kaiser <gregorykaiser@yahoo.com> - Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 01:46:08 (EST) I WAS ABOARD 1977 - 1981 WAS IN #3 ENGINE ROOM, ALWAYS LOOKING FOR OLD SHIPMATES!, I LIVE IN THE SAN FRANSISCO BAY AREA, LOOKING FOR DOUG KAUFMANN,& RICK MARTIR CORTEZ,HAD SOME GREAT TIMES, ANYONE ON BOARD AT THESE TIMES, WHO REMEMBERS ME FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ME, GREAT SIGHT!!!, THANX. FRANK BIONDO <F.BIONDO@ATTBI.COM> - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 17:37:25 (EST) AMH3 VF154 aboard for the 63 cruise, many fond memories, one of which was getting stranded at Cubi Point while on Bingo Crew. The ship just left in a hurry and never waited for us. If I recall we were told that she was going down to relieve the Hancock who had lost a catapult and could not wait. We eventually caught up with her in Japan about a month later. Ofcourse I had been stationed with VU-5A at Cubi previous to 154, knew to people and the country so I just had a great time for a few weeks. Australia was fantastic, a port of a life time. Watching the A3D fly into the net. I did not believe that we were going to actually catch that plane out of the air but we did, it was a heck of a show for the Australian VIP'S. Then coming back in the typhoon watching food sliding from one end of the mess hall floor to the other. I watched a tray of some 30 or 40 sunnyside up eggs sliding back and forth in a passageway with the yokes just looking at me. Then loosing the F3 over the side trying to move it away from the hanger door so it could be closed. Somehow while passing by I was volunteered to help with that fiasco, fortunately or unfortunately the towbar and mule that also went were worth more than the F3 as they were heading to the bone yard anyway to be replaced by F4'S. I believe we were doing 18 degree roles, forget the can next to us it was under water more than not Some sadness for the loss of life, the cruise book memorial page shows that 8 men parished while on that cruise I witnessed 2, enough for a life time. Dick Lachapelle <dlachapelle@peoplepc.com> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 23:52:05 (EST) B-div. 61-63, 4-Able fireroom. Lookin for any old snipes from around that time.---Lookin for a Coral Sea zippo lighter to. Got one for sale, let me know & maby we can work something out.--- Still hadn't got Australia out of me yet. Sammy Owens <lwsambo#ctesc.net> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 19:07:48 (EST) I put the wrong e mail address down last night thanks ROBERT E MARTIN Robert E Martin <chuckjeanbob2@aol.comI> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 15:57:10 (EST) I served aboard the CORAL SEA DURRING THE MED CRUISE OF 1954-55 AS FIRERMAN IN THE M DIVISION MAIN ENGINEROOM AND OXYGEN AND NITROGEN PRODUCING UNIT I departed in Mayport for the hospital in JACKSONVILLE IN 1955. I HOPE TO HEAR FROM SOME ONE SOON. BOB ROBERT E. MARTIN <chuckjeanbob@aol.com> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 01:28:40 (EST) I took Puckett to Captain's Mast as the MAA Yeoman during this cruise. I started looking for information about "Puckett" a couple of years ago because I wanted to know how the Navy "officially" handled a sailor who didn't return from a peace-time cruise - the facts of the that time are that Puckett was sentenced to 10 days "correctional custody", escaped from the MAA and was never seen again. Anyone aboard can remember how many GQ's we went thru looking for him. Got any info, drop me a note Jack Noble <far@d-web.com> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 00:36:05 (EST) SERVED 1948 TO 1952 F= DIVISION HERMAN TATZ - Wednesday, March 27, 2002 at 09:50:37 (EST) Thought I'd best log in for 2002. Was in GM Division from 1963-1965. Made the down under cruise and remember the "Puckett" incident where GQ was called and everyone was to search there area. Was told at the time a life raft was missing from one of the aircraft and that his shoes were found by the fantail. Was probably just scuttlebutt. As a member of the USS Coral Sea CVA-43 Assn. I wish all you shipmates out there would log on to the website ( www.usscoralsea.org ) and see what it's all about. The Assn. has alot to offer and it's great getting the good old "Coral Ses Breeze" every quarter. CC Cassler AO3 <cass41@aol.com> - Tuesday, March 26, 2002 at 16:55:03 (EST) re-signing for 2002,i was in v-1 from 83-86, still looking for dave scally and gene wright ....where you guys at ? jeff bonnell <frzbk9@aol.com> - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 21:08:19 (EST) Was on ship 52 med cruise toed a rusier landed an air shup on flight deck witnessed crash of jet in to fantail watched a dead cat shot and crash of aj tanker an a few other things, was on flight deck crew. any one know bill shortall? Bill Flink <bfllinm@aol.com> - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 18:37:27 (EST) "SKI" (Clete Rajewski) ABH3 / V3 DIV - Yeoman - 1970-1972 Lots of great memories.... Hawaii!! Hong Kong!! Japan!! Our division parties at the Wagon Wheel in Olongapo where we'd rent the entire club including the "entertainment"....! The card games in the coffee locker.... My uncomfortable meeting with Captain Harris after I had wrote my senators complaining about the mail being slow..!!(no hard feelings Captain!!!).... Chief Pack, Lt Norfleet, Caswell and all the other guys.... You all have been in my memory for all these years... "SKI" Clete Rajewski <crajewski@comcast.net> - Saturday, March 23, 2002 at 16:55:38 (EST) served on board the Coral Sea from 84-87 in R Div. Had a great time on board and on the 85-86 cruise. Hey Gary Ford if your out there drop me a line. Steven R. Whitney DCC <whitneys@nsa.bahrain.navy.mil> - Saturday, March 23, 2002 at 01:30:41 (EST) I was aboard the Coral Sea during the years of 1973-75, and was in the Gunners mate Division. Jim Tompkins <j_tompkins@hotmail.com> - Friday, March 22, 2002 at 20:22:52 (EST) I was attached to HC7 when we flew off of the Coral Sea for the last time on Yankee Station in 1974. What a memory, even today. I was very proud then and I am even more proud now. Scott Kirkpatrick <skirkpatrick@sprintpcs.com> - Friday, March 22, 2002 at 12:45:28 (EST) Served in G-division 59 - 62 on re-commissioning crew in Bremerton. Plan to attend the reunion in Branson, hope to see some old salts. Jackie Jenkins <jjenk@surfbest.net> - Friday, March 22, 2002 at 00:33:14 (EST) Served on the "OLD BOAT" from late 70 to Feb. 73. Was in V-4 Division. Lots of good times & good memories. Like to say Howdy to everyone who served with Me. Hope you all have good & prosperous times. Jerry Layton <C81694ODY@AOL.COM> - Thursday, March 21, 2002 at 19:56:05 (EST) served aboard coral sea ship's company im-2 division. i'm trying to find ad3 eddie rocha from the jet shop. do you still have my cruisebook from 87-88? can't seem to find you out there. if anybody happens to have a 87-88 cruise book and would like to part with it, please e-mail me with $. knowing i was there without a record of it is just driving me more crazy over time. with my 85-86 cruisebook, it'll be something i'd be proud to show my grandchildren some day. thanks robert k. pedersen jr <pedeym14@aol.com> - Thursday, March 21, 2002 at 18:49:47 (EST) Went aboard in July 1962 and got stuck as MAA Yeoman - worked for a couple of EM1's, John (?) Powers and John (?) Peeler who were great and a BM2 named Reese who I detest to this day. Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Thursday, March 21, 2002 at 01:07:45 (EST) Sir, Ma'am, request pass this e-mail to a CDR Frank Nichols. I believe he is on your ship. I used the Navy Personnel Locater to try to find him. I did a westpac with him in 95 on the USS New Orleans and would like to say hi. Thank you. V/R, Major Stehly USMC stehlyja@1mawmag12.usmc.mil DSN 253-4087 (MCAS, Iwakuni, Japan) Joseph A. Stehly, Major, USMC <stehlyja@1mawmag12.usmc.mil> - Wednesday, March 20, 2002 at 17:26:09 (EST) Hi Shipmates of old and new. Did my time of the "boat" from 87 to post decommisioning. Like someone said "it was the worst of times, it was the best of times". Started out as a FR in the pit and Log Room and left as a YN2 out of the Captains Office. Still don't claim the YN part, I was always a snipe at heart, but hell, it was a lot cooler in the office. Best part was working in the LOG Room, across from the MR Shop, Scooter and the guys, the flying squad beating the hell out of me when I put on 3rd, carrying ice to the hole when we went DIW, fighting that rag fire in the hangar bay for what seemed like days, but then there are the days at the Daquiri Palace in Magaluf, Halifax twice, WOW. I remember the first time we went to sea we had like 4-5 fires and a couple of floodings before we secured from Sea and Anchor, I was thinking that it would have been safer to join the marines, but I also remember shedding a tear when I flew over her while she was in Philly next to the IOWA. Amazing how things have a way to circle back. Last October, on my 15 year anniversary (5 more before I get paroled), I was briefing the CNO and next to him was VADM Dennis McGinn, who was the XO on the CORAL SEA. Didn't tell him so, but I was smiling because I was thinking that I advanced 12 times while he only advanced 4 times since then, but I'd still take his pay and the liberty I had as an E3. Have a favor to ask,if anyone knows where I can buy a CORAL SEA PATCH and a Decommissioning Patch. My flight jacket burned in the Pentagon Attack, and the things I cherished the most other than my 7 friends and coworkers whom I lost were my CORAL SEA patches. I'd appreciate any leads you guys can provide. Great site and great to see the Coral Sea being remembered fondly. Claudio Biltoc <cbiltoc@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, March 20, 2002 at 03:21:04 (EST) Without a doubt, the time that I spent onboard the Coral (Jun '81 - Apr '84, G-1 Div) was some of the best times of my (so far) 21 year Naval career. At the time I thought it was hell of course, being just 18 when I reported aboard and home sick as hell after losing my dad while I was in boot. Folks like Dave Nicholi, Mark Koessel, Tom Costanzo, Tim Overly, Phil Lasardi, Jim Coggins (and other too numerous to mention) are folks I will never forget for being my friends and getting me through some tough times. The day I left the ship we were in dry dock in portsmouth. Standing there at the bow, I remember feeling just like I had 3-1/2 years previously when I left home the first time, for my first day of boot camp. That command had been my home and the folks aboard my family. I have never felt that way again about any of my other commands and doubt I ever will. If any of the old gang is out there, please feel free to e-mail me at wally@pugetsound.net and check out the web site www.pioneernet.net/wally. Walt Pruitt Walt Pruitt <wally@pugetsound.net> - Tuesday, March 19, 2002 at 01:08:49 (EST) i am a plank owner 47 to 51 gm3 5 th div i enjoyed serving our country on the coral sea . where are all the old planks? i was fresh off the farm when i went on the bigga ah boat . it was bigger than the farm . i have dinner menu,s for the first and the fourth anniversary,s .the first year we traveled 34,373 miles i,ll try to get them to you soon for the web,your doing agreat job BOB F. E. TROUT <fe trout @tri county .com> - Monday, March 18, 2002 at 21:29:13 (EST) I HAVE JUST FOND THE SITE . GOOD JOB. SERVED IN B DIV ('62-'65)3-ABLE FIREROOM LOOKING FOR ANY OF THE OLD SNPIES FROM THAT ERA. CAME ABORD AT HUNTERS POINT REMEMBER BEING CALLED TO GENERAL QUARTERS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT SITTING IN SAN FRAN HARBOR (EARTH QUAKE IN ALASKA). JOE W. HUNTER <HUNTER@CHATTANOOGA.NET> - Sunday, March 17, 2002 at 18:08:32 (EST) I served in Public Affairs Office from 6/64-6/66. I am looking for Lt. Manny Perez the ship's Public Affairs Officer. I am also looking for Jon Hagerman who worked in the post office. If you know the whereabouts of anyone else from X-Division from 64-66 please let me know. Les Jackson Les Jackson <LLJackson2503@aol.com> - Sunday, March 17, 2002 at 15:47:34 (EST) I was aboard the dear old lady in 1962 in ship's company, V6 division and then again in 1963 with the air group. I was in Va-155. I like the work being done on this site, keep it up. I was saddened to hear that the ship has been scrapped. I wonder if any of my buddies from the COD crew are still around. Pete Pearson (Pierson) or Bill Prince. Would like to hear from them. Blackie March 16, 2002 James D. Blackmon ADJ-3 (Blackie) <Follower97@aol.com> - Saturday, March 16, 2002 at 23:32:33 (EST) My nameis James Yotkewich,I was aboard this great ship from May 61 until oct 64. While there I was in v2 div. Most of the time I was on no2 catapult deckedge opp.I was on 2 wes pack cruises. Would like to hear from anyone from that time with v2 div. I rember guy like Dale Collinsworth,Dave Minster Gary Parish James Yotkewich ABE# James Yotkewich <jymy@midamer.net> - Saturday, March 16, 2002 at 18:36:18 (EST) I served on the Coral Sea from Feb 72 thru 75, deployed twice, catching the Coral Sea on Yankee Station after riding the Hancock from Subic. I was a BT3, stationed in the 4 group firerooms. Had some wonderful times and learned so much about my rating, truly a fine ship. I am now retired after 26 1/2 years. I retired as a BTCM(SW). Al Ching <blkshoe3@charter.net> - Saturday, March 16, 2002 at 18:00:26 (EST) served as an EM in E-div "distro" (everything below the 2nd deck) under EMC"just fix it,dickhead!!!"Wyccoff(sp?). from oct 85 - dec 89. like to hear from anyone in E-div at that time or any "hole snipes" that remember me. ronald "scott" jackson <rsjack@webtv.net> - Saturday, March 16, 2002 at 10:58:29 (EST) I was an AQ1 in VF-154 on the Coral Sea for the '63 cruise to Australia and the west pac. It was a very memorable cruise. Lost my "Golden Shellback" card when someone stole my bilfold about 20 years later. Don't see anything on the site about the young sailor that supposedly 'Jumped Ship' as we were getting clear of Sydney Harbour. Story had it that he had found his true love in Sydney and couldn't stand to leave her. Lot of fond memories for a ship that was truely one of the best feeders in the fleet. Dave Orwig <dorwig@ec.rr.com> - Saturday, March 16, 2002 at 08:17:14 (EST) HELLO I SERVED ON THE CORAL SEA FROM MARCH 76 TILL NOVEMBER 1979 DAVID J LONGENHAGEN JR <LCAPTLONG@AOL.COM> - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 20:27:45 (EST) 1974-75 WestPac VF-51 Kenneth Ashby AMHAN <KnnthAshby@aol.com> - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 18:51:29 (EST) Was a "Weather Guesser" AG2 in OA Division during 1969-1970 WestPac. Had brother duty with my brother Vic who was a RM3. Lots of good memories in Hong Kong, Sasebo, Sydney, Subic (Po Town), Yokuska, Honolulu and steaming with the New Jersey off the coast of North Korea. My time aboard the Coral Sea was the highlight of my Navy career. Would love to hear from any of my shipmates. Terry Doepke <terry.doepke@oesc.state.ok.us> - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 17:51:13 (EST) I served on the Ship from November 1954 to October 1956. I was in the "B" division serving as a machinist (destilling the water). I would like to hear from anyone who remembers me. Also I would like to purchase a year book for those years if anyone has one for sale. Wade Faulkner Sr. <kellylynnfs@yahoo.com> - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 09:07:43 (EST) Thanks Fred! :) Jon Allen <kalakala_1@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 11:38:36 (EST) That Jon Allen has a way with words! And he thinks, too! Sounds more like a preacher! He caught my attention on his first entry in Richard Bradford's guestbook back in March, 2000. He just goes on and on! Just having fun Jon Allen! I enjoy it! Remember the Coral Sea! Fred Redeker - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 09:29:24 (EST) Well gentlemen, it's been 6 months since the day that changed everything forever. Even though my time aboard Coral Sea was during the 85-89 period (crossing the "Line Of Death, bombing Libya) I am still employed by the DOD as a civilian at Naval Station Everett. Sept. 11 brought back a flood of memories of my haze gray days, and like most of you I'm sure, my shock and sadness turned into anger and rage. I don't think I could make it up and down those damn ladders anymore quite as fast as back then, but (again, like most of you) if asked to, I'd give it a try! Every single one of us who posts here have given more than lip service to living in and enjoying the freedoms of the US of A. We've given a chunk of our lives to it. I always feel the short hairs on the back of my neck stand up when I hear someone on a soapbox spewing on an on about taking "the peaceful road and negociate with the Taliban". Screw that. Personally, I was hoping that retribution would have been short, swift, and unmerciful. Coral Sea....yeah, she was a rust bucket. One that a part of me misses a lot. When push came to shove, she answered the bell, kicked ass and took names. She showed me the world, taught me a trade, and made me look inside myself more times than I could count. She taught me resolve. To all of you, well done. Bravo Zulu. In a day an age where "patriotism" seems to be tossed around way too much...here's to you. All of us...we are America. Never forget 9/11/01. Never. Jon Allen <kalakala_1@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 11:13:47 (EST) served on the natural from 48-51 in x division exec office (trans and reciepts don hages <donhaygus@aol.com> - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 09:09:05 (EST) Just wanted to bring back some great memories. James E. Stewart <jastewart@calpine.com> - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 08:14:46 (EST) R Division, '75 West-Pac I made the transition to "manhood" under the leadership of Captain Frick, a good man. Lt. JG Minder, (the idiot look-alike of Richard Dryfuss), who in my opinion, was the poorest leader I've encountered, before or since, whom we called "Chipmunk", because his pre-pubecent, wanna-be beard, barely covered cheeks which looked to conceal nuts stored for winter, was our Division Officer. The sailor who "fell??" overboard that most dark night, never to be recovered, was HT3 Marvin Ritz. I witnessed the "mishap" with the frisbee. In his memory we will chalk it up to "accident". I knew Marvin well, as he bunked close by. I flew onto Coral Sea via helicopter from the Merchant Marine ship, USNS Mispillion, which had earlier in the week crossed the Equator, and had already held the infamous "shellback initiations", thus propelling my shipmates and me into shellback status. This enabled us to partake in the upcoming festivities aboard Coral Seaas exectutors of Neptune's rath. Few seamen experience receiving and delivering the "treatment" in the same week. I will not tell of the "grease-gun" episode I witnessed as applied to some "lippy Pollywogs" aboard the old girl! Planes and pilots lost at sea, including one or more loosening up in rough seas and rolling off the deck into the drink. (I don't envy the officer who interupted the Secretary of the Navy's dinner date with THAT news, only to call back a few hours later, to repeat the message a second time!) Seaman Cruz, "come out, come out, wherever you are!", blaring over the 1MC. Did he ever turn up? Subic? Cubi? The Mayaguez Incident? The fall of Saigon? The two Marines killed just hours after the war "ended". Swine Flu shots, "Steady Papers", Jeepnies, Olongopo, Marshal Law, Buzzard by the bay! Grandi Island. What WERE they serving on those sticks in the morning on the way back to the boat? JP-5 in the drinking water, (you could practically ignite it, rainbow colors swirling around, before masking it with powder transforming it into bugjuice) Remember? If you didn't believe in "Coral Sea Clyde", email me, I have another story for you! Yeah, I was young once. Thank you for this excellent site. It has surely brought back memories, good and bad. I would like to see more "Snipes" checkin' in, though. Rudy, Brown, Woby, Garr, (killed on his Harley??) Can't seem to lose HT3 Peterson! Coral Sea was the best dammed "rust bucket" in the world, for MY money! ellitude Jim Ellis <ellitude@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 02:39:20 (EST) I was on the Coral Sea from 85 to 87, 2 Med Cruises Attached to Vaw -127 Seabats flying the E-2C Hawkeye. I was Night Shift Line Division Superviser Anyone remembering Give me a Email. Scott Sorensen <nwfire221@netzero.net> - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 20:16:23 (EST) I served aboard Coral Sea from April 1972 to July 1975. I was an OS2 assigned to OI Division. I loved every minute aboard her. I came upon this website while searching the web for something totally unrelated. I can't tell you how thrilled I am to have found it. I have boxes of photos and slides from my time aboard. I'll dig them out and send some. Thanks for making my day! Francis P. Burek <fpburek@hotmail.com> - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 19:11:29 (EST) AO3 G-Division 9/70-12/73 Thanks for the site. Each time I visit I'm reminded of some aspect of life aboard Coral Sea, and most of my memories are pleasant. What a special experience it was! Tom Simmons <tspipe@juno.com> - Sunday, March 10, 2002 at 10:31:18 (EST) I am looking for Alan Mutke. I just read a cruise book from 1964 and there was a story in there about my old boots that they buried at sea for me. I was on the ship ffrom 1961-1964. Made 3 west pac cruises. Am a shellback (Austrila visit 1963) worked in the Post office for 3 1/2 years. Alan send me an e-mail. Dale la Fleur dale la fleur <ompaomi4u@aol.com> - Saturday, March 09, 2002 at 12:08:31 (EST) Some will remember me as the guy who fixed the copiers and typewriters. I still the guys from VF51 and the story of the ice machine that we cut in half to get it in to the ready room B021030A James Yearnd IM2 <yodatech@yahoo.com> - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 00:30:28 (EST) i served from 1970 to 1974, two west pac cruises lt. jg. ron flowerree <rflowerree@aol.com> - Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 23:33:02 (EST) Looking for any M2 Div. shipmates from 78 to 82. Keith Huard <kmkc253@aol.com> - Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 20:41:09 (EST) RD3 served "OI" Division 1963 to 1-65. She was a Grand Old Lady. Terry J. Rogers <tjrogers11@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 14:04:43 (EST) I SERVE IN THE 1980 WESPAC VMFA-531 SQUADRON GREY GHOST CALL SIGN, WOULD LIKE TO NO WHAT HAPPEN TO OLD GAL SINCE 1980 thankyou god bless johnnie valentin <heavensake3333.juno.com> - Tuesday, March 05, 2002 at 02:15:21 (EST) was on the ol scow from 75-79 member of r-div, hated it then , but sad to look thru the pics of her gone ............ alot of good people on there ,,,,,good times now ya think back randy peterson <rpeterson1955@ao;.com> - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 19:14:36 (EST) Was aboard in 1949. Made Med. Cruise. Papal Audience in Rome. Emil Spelar or bob Curry still Around? How about the "Joe-pot Gang" in the !st Div. clipping Room? John W.. Richardson <Jrichar193 @AOL.COM> - Saturday, March 02, 2002 at 21:06:32 (EST) Was aboard in 1949. Made Med. Cruise. Papal Audience in Rome. Emil Spelar or bob Curry still Around? How about the "Joe-pot Gang" in the !st Div. clipping Room? John W.. Richardson <Jrichar193 @AOL.COM> - Saturday, March 02, 2002 at 21:06:24 (EST) Having served Ship's Company (1985-1988) in Communications (CR Div) I can remember and fully appreciate the term "Ageless Warrier". She always kept up the pace with the "Big Boys" and stood her ground under many side effects of "Murphy's Law" (those who know what I mean will well remember). Her memory and spirit will always be with me. Russell E. Griffin (USN Ret) <r.griffin@email.chartway.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 22:33:00 (EST) Helo driver.. HU-1.... l960-61 Dale Swisher <iframe@san.rr.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 20:55:41 (EST) Hey Shipmates. served aboard from 79 to 83. Was a Plane captain in VA 196. wanted to say to my squadron mates and ship's company I met while on board. looking for some of you guys from the Flying Squad and IC dept. Drop me an email. Kevin Burke <KJBurke01@aol.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 20:21:54 (EST) Served 1971-72 AT3 Ships company. Electronics qual lab. Shipmates were Lindsey,Fackelman,Farmer,Baird,Hogan and others I just cant remember at this time.Any of you guys out there please contact me.I'm still alive! R.C. Stewart <rcs3030@aol.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 12:46:06 (EST) for: Edward B Dunne Served 1953-54 MARDET. Anyone know where I may acquire a cruise book for that time? Leslie Stewart <stew279@attglobal.net> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 12:31:39 (EST) I am looking for anyone from Weapons Department "W" Division between 1985 and 1989 Rick Coomer WT2 <buffalohmhttc@earthlink.net> Angola, NEW YORK - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 09:03:24 (EST) I served aboard the COral Maru from 84 to 88 in CR Division a Radioman 3rd class.Anyone that remembers me feel free to email me. Bob Guerriero <bguerriero@yahoo.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 02:15:24 (EST) Great site. Thanks toeveryone who have contributed to it. I may have a few photos to share if i can find them. Bob Guerriero <bguerriero@yahoo.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 02:11:41 (EST) I was in A Gang in AC&R from end of 1985 until the last day of Decom in 1990. She was by far the best ship in the Navy. Anyone from agang contact me. Looking for last cruise book and Elton John video from last cruise. Jesse Kamekona <Kamekonaj@cnrc.navy.mil> - Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at 18:10:01 (EST) I am looking for anyone that might have served with my father, Ronald Hoard aboard the Coral Sea. He served with VF 151. I beleive his rank was First Class Petty Officer, I am not sure. Anyone would that served with him, please write me at hoard1313@msn.com Steven Hoard <VF 151 > - Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 01:11:09 (EST) I was aboard in 1967 with VF 161 CAG 15 Richard J Smith AQF3 VF161, 1967 <rjs923@yahoo.com> Olney, Il USA - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 09:13:44 (EST) B DIV. 1 CHARLIE FIREROOM 76 TO 79 LOTS OF MEMORIES MOSTLY GOOD , REMAIN . WISH THEY COULD HAVE MADE A FLOATING MUSEUM OR ATTRACTION OUT OF HER, LIKE THEY DID TO THE YORKTOWN DOWN IN CHARLESTON. SAD TO SEE HER SCRAPPED AND GONE FOREVER. HEY PHIL TALK TO YOU SOON. DON SAMUELS <coralsea43@hotmail.com> - Sunday, February 24, 2002 at 20:16:20 (EST) Just signing this years log book. Was in V-2 Division from 83-86. Jeff (JD) Johnson <jdj@pionet.net> - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 20:52:17 (EST) Served U.S.S. Coral Sea CVA-43 August 1959 - June 1962 Recommissioning. I.C. Gang. Memory: Changing the bearings on the wind speed direction unit on top the main mast at sea...what a ride... Any man who may be asked what he did to make his life worth while....can respond with a good deal of satisfaction I SERVED IN THE UNITED STATES NAVY. JFK 1963 Thomas H Johnson <t0797tj@bpsinet.com> - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 09:57:16 (EST) Served U.S.S. Coral Sea CVA-43 August 1959 - June 1962 Recommissioning. I.C. Gang. Memory changing the bearings on the wind speed direction unit on top the main mast at sea...what a ride... Any man who may be asked what he did to make his life worth while....can respond Thomas H Johnson <t0797tj@bpsinet.com> - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 09:54:36 (EST) SERVED ON BOARD CVA-43 FROM AUGUST 1969 UNTIL MAY 1972 IN V-3 DIVISION AS A AN AND THEN AS A ABH-3. MADE TWO WEST-PAC CRUISES AND WENT THROUGH EXTENSIVE DRY DOCK PERIOD AT HUNTERS POINT. WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM SHIPMATES IN THIS TIME FRAME. ANYONE OUT THERE REMEMBER CHEIF PACK? I'M REALLY GLAD I FOUND YOUR WEBSITE. GARY MOORE <gmoore@abccoke.com> - Friday, February 22, 2002 at 16:45:01 (EST) Hi doug I hear what youare saying about unpleasant stories about Pete. Do you remember Tom Kulka who worked in the machine shop? I talk with him from time to tiome and he is doing well. I am building an"A" Gang directory so we all con keep in touch, if anyone out there can help let me know! Rich Carson <carson1@adelphia.net> - Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 11:02:33 (EST) Served aboard the USS Coral Sea CV-43 79-81. Worked in V-2 div. waist cats. Serving aboard the Coral Sea was the best time of my life. I went on to serve aboard three more bird farms after the Coral Sea, but none of them compaired to her. Zinger, if your out there, drop me a line. That go's for any of my old ship mates. Larry Weiss <leeweiss58@aol.com> - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 23:30:08 (EST) looking for those a-gangers 82-85 rich i haven't thought about pete banels since he wrote skull up for bringing a 12 pack to risner mmfn while on restriction will try to think of other stories most wouldn't want to tell his niece though doug stewart <ifdstewart@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 15:00:52 (EST) Attached to Coral Sea from 1987 until 1990 as a PN2 assigned to ships personnel office. Major Bynum Jr. <chief08@msn.com> - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 13:53:36 (EST) I made the 1977 wespac on the Coral sea in VF-191. Mark Brossette, AME-3 Mark Brossette <BROSSETTE_M@msn.com> - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 01:00:39 (EST) Looking for a picture of the starboard side of the island during 1965. Airwing insignias were painted there during our cruise. Does anyone have a picture that they could share? Thanks David Herron <mdherron@mtco.com> - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 22:01:51 (EST) Was on the "Coral Sea" from l953-thru Oct. 1956. Was in the "A" Div. Diesel gang-boat shop. Was in the AFT Diesel Generating room and was also diesel engineer on the captain's gig - under Captain McDonald. GREAT TO SEE THIS WEBSITE AND WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM SOME OF MY DIESEL GANG MEMBERS! Ralph L. Swiatek <rldsreloader@aol.com> - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 14:18:40 (EST) I was on board for sept 72 to jul 75 and want a grand old lady she was to us all I was BMSN 1st div.and if anyone out there can tell me where i can find David robert McClure please e mail me. Ronald L Dick <plum41@aol.com> - Saturday, February 16, 2002 at 23:16:51 (EST) Keep up the great work in making this the best web site ever!! Ronald Sofge <sofge4me@aol.com> - Friday, February 15, 2002 at 19:37:02 (EST) Was on the Westpac in 1977. Served as a plane captain with helicoptor squadron HC-1 Det 4.Would like to hear from any other squadron mates. " If you can't hover, you ain't s..."! Mike Schuffenhauer <shumik99@yahoo.com> - Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 18:57:41 (EST) Very nice work here,i love visiting this site,well done i will return and view often please visit my site at http://www.bgwholesale.freeservers.com/index.htm view all my pages,the veterans tribute,Sons&Daughters of nam vets also view my inkjet&Toner Cartridges page my prices are set for vets&family Thanks Sgt Wilson Ret 11th A/c 3rd sq Berlin wall crisis Regensburg,Germany (3) Years Bernie <bgw673@aol.com> - Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 18:42:15 (EST) Great Site. My Churched Janitor was stationed on the Coral Sea from 1952-54. On the Yearbooks for those sailings, he did the cartoon work. If i cab, I'll try to get some piccy's to send to the site if you'd like them. Cheerio, Clint News Correspondant http://www.aviation-careers.net Clint <clint@aviation-careers.net> - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 14:37:09 (EST) I was in M division Nov.59 To Mar 62 #4 pump room.When I departed I was MM2 John Jander <johnjander@msn.com> - Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 21:09:04 (EST) Served my entire enlistment on board the Coral Sea. June 1966 TO Sept 1969. ADJ2 in the Jet shop /AIMD Flew as a crewmember on the ships C1A (plane) for a couple of months during the '68 cruise, GREAT TIMES Michael Wechsler Michael Wechsler <Michael@parsteel.com> - Monday, February 11, 2002 at 16:55:47 (EST) I was a BT in 1 Charlie fireroom from late 1975 to 1979.Hey Dennis!! Anybody else out there? If you are drop me a line!! Already heard from several shipmates. This site is working very well. Later,Phil Barranco Phil Barranco <barrancop@aol.com> - Monday, February 11, 2002 at 15:07:06 (EST) RADARMAN 2ND CLASS 1963THRU 1966 LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY PAST SHIPMATES. WAS MASTER AT ARMS FOR 6 MO AND FIRE WATCH DIV IN YARD 66 .GOT SO USED TO HOT WEATHER I SPEND MOST TIME IN FLORIDA.WAS FROM WEST VIRGINIA NICHOLAS WOOD <DOLLYEW@AOL.COM> - Monday, February 11, 2002 at 14:41:58 (EST) SERVED ABOARD 76/79 1CHARLIE AND OIL SHACK. LIKE TO HEAR FROM SOME OLD SHIPMATE,S. Dennis Dohrman <ddohrman@htc.net> - Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 17:48:53 (EST) What a great place to grow up as a 19-20 year old. I was in the V-6 metal shop watching the ship get closer and closer to to Iwo Jima. Lets hear it for the 1st Class PO who graped us young kids and slamed shut the hatch. Seconds later, and 20 feet away, parts of the Iwo Jima were hanging from the Coral Sea. Harlan Updegraff <HarlanU@aol.com> - Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 15:03:34 (EST) Thank you for an excellent site - I am 61 and have never been in the armed forces - I am from Australia and have been interested in aircraft since I was a young child. Your site has been my reading for the last 3 hours and I have been fascinated by the glimpse of life (and death) on a large carrier over the years Again thanks for a most interesting site Rod Connan Rod Connan <rconn@ozemail.com.au> - Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 04:46:21 (EST) Served Fwd. Evaps. 1954-56 Karl L. Johnson (John ) <karl74@msn.com> - Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 19:55:31 (EST) I am looking for shipmates of my fathers, he seved aboard the USS Coral Sea from 1962-1966. His name was Raymond Erickson and I at the time he was either a Ensign or a Seaman. If you remember him please email me. Subject" Coral Sea" Samuel Erickson <see@netins.net> - Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 15:25:14 (EST) looking to find any of the shipmates I served with between 1973and 1974. I only served about a yr on her., but would like to find anyone from R division who served her during that period. I was in the Pipeshop.Nick name (Tony) Philip M Martin <fixdog@mediaone.net> - Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 09:06:48 (EST) Thought I would check back and see how the web site looked and if anyone I knew had signed in..also got new email address...Always will remember WESPAC 74-75 the evacuation and the recovery..small bits of history only those involved remember..If you like to read check out "The Last Battle" by Ralph Wetterhahn, if you were on the Coral Sea 74-75 this book is a must read. Daniel Spahn <danielspahn@hotmail.com> - Friday, February 08, 2002 at 16:00:09 (EST) hello all, my father served on the coral sea til he got hurt on the ship in 68 his name was Lawrence Wood, or "WOODY". i would like to hear from some of his shipmates. He is still alive and doing well. please respond if you know who he is. Les Wood <lwood88511@aol.com> - Friday, February 08, 2002 at 04:34:43 (EST) Fun visiting the website. Hope it stays on. I was on the ship from July 63 to Mar. 65. Airdale VA 153 Bluetail Flies. Missed the Australia trip by a hair. Really would like to know what happened to some guys in my squadron. I was looking at my yearbook and saw a lot of names that I remember. Wonder how to find these guys. Richard Stover ADJ-2 <Stovertricky13@aol.com> - Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 21:10:16 (EST) Hi Bob, Really love your web site. Do you remember 8/9/2000 at 13:47 hours when you took pictures and I videoed the last piece of her come on land? I have a ton of stuff you might be able to use but we must get together to do it. If you ever go to Ocean City MD. you come within a block of my house on route 50 in Cambridge, Md. Phone is 1-410-221-7886 I have a scanner and printer you can use while your here. I really hope we can get together. Keep up the good work. GOD BLESS EARL Earl Neall <eneall@bcctv.com> - Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 15:48:32 (EST) I served aboard this grand old ship in 1952 and 1953. I had the good fortuNE e of making two crusies to the Med. Around Jan. 1 1954 I transferred to the FDR and made the cruise to South America and around Cape Horn. This was the first carrier of this class to go around the horn. I just found this web page this week and I love it. Keep up the good work. John C. North <JnnHome2313@aol.com> - Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 09:30:47 (EST) X Division 1962 - 1964 - Remember running aground in SF bay after carquals off San Diego in early 1963? Remember dependent's day cruise in Mar 63 prior to deployment? Remember awacs plane that crashed late in cruise on approach, lost four sailors (found old letter to home!!)Lot's of good men lost on a peace-time cruise. Bless the people who have taken our place on new ships and new times, they seem like kids when I see them in the news - did we look like that when we served our time!!!??? Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 23:35:52 (EST) I was aboard the Coral Sea in 1954 with Carrier Air Group 10, during the Mediterranian cruise. Ralph A, Herring, Jr. <herringr@statesville.net> - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 09:50:17 (EST) Building 43, the old Coral Maroo etc.. I think we who had the honor to serve 43 have our own name for her. I am also sure that the same servants of her mqjasty 43, loved her madly. I would love to do it again on the old Coral Maroo. Great stuff. CRW Carl R. Weaver <crw@sbcglobal.com> - Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 20:17:07 (EST) I am a POW/MIA researcher , looking for any one that was in Attack Sq, 23 USS Coral Sea during the time frame Oct-Nov 1966, in which Lt. Michael S Confer launched from the deck of the Coral Sea and was MIA on 10 Oct 1966. Thanks for any help with this Craig Willbanks <pcawc@msn.com> - Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 12:00:06 (EST) Looking for any of the guys from M-2 Div. 79 to 82 drop me a line lets get together and have a few beers for the old times. Keith Huard <kmkc253@aol.com> - Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 09:55:25 (EST) Greating shipmates. Served aboard CVA-43 from 68 to 72. Stationed at the hanger bay in V-3 division. Had some really great times, now after all this time has pass, would not mind locating some of my friends. Michael Kartchner <Kartvines@juno.com> - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 20:53:49 (EST) would like to hear from friends in va-196 79-80 jetmechs. an friends doane,thompson,reeves,oldman,carl,pulford,leyden,kenny airframes, smitty,or any other lifers that are still around. adan matt h. kroeker va-196 <missourimonster @msn > - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 00:31:01 (EST) AE3 VA-55 decom cruse JOSEPH SPEARS <jnvspears@aol.com> - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 22:10:20 (EST) It's very interesting to have visited the website to view the history and events that took place aboard the Coral Sea. It's a crying shame that the ol'girl had to be salvaged,I'm interested in knowing where the scrap actually ended up. ASMAN Carl S. Berryman <Carlstlips@aol.com> - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 13:09:11 (EST) Back agin,Iwas onbord from 63/66 in V4 DIV,WORKED AS FUEL CREWMENBER ON THE FLIGHT DECK,BELOW IN THE #1 JP5 PUMP ROOM AND FINLY IN FLIGHT DECK CONTROL. CAN REMEMBER HAVEING A LOT OF FUN AND ALSO ALOT OF LONG HARD FLIGHT OPES, FUNNY NOW I CAN REMENBER MORE OF THE FUN.LIKE SYDNEY,SUBIC BAY AND MENY MORE.I COULD NOT WATE TO GET OFF THE OLD MUD-HIN, BUT I THANK IAM MORE SAD TO FIND OUT THAT SHE HAS BEEN SCRAPED.THANKS FOR THIS SITE IT HAS BEEN A REAL JOY.ROY WHELER, WAYNE BRAY,JOE WEBBER,BOB MULLER, TOM TILMEN I HOPE YOU ALL ARE STELL STANDING TALL WOULD LOVE TO HERE FROM YOU. E.W.MOON ABF3 <emoonjr@kscable.com> - Friday, February 01, 2002 at 22:19:42 (EST) Served 70 thru 75 under the fearless Cpt. Peck.Great Lakes Boot camp. Signalman A School San Diago,Manhood school of Subic bay. Started out as B/M. Remember ma falling from bosin chair to Camel deck below. G/M locked in gun terrant and sufficated from paint fumes. Remember line in Medical after arrival in PI. trips to Hong Kong, Sasabo base ball games that we were to drunk to play ball.Manila and bitting heads off of chickens, alligator in Subic Bay. Hamburgers on island in Subic Bay. Ferry from Hong Kong to Kalhoon.trips to Vietnam, cambodia. I miss good friends. Rodeo in California. I was the big blond, red neck in the signal division (skivey waver division). Currently i am a Sergeant with the Harris County Sheriffs Dept in Houston TX. I am a Staff Sergeant in the Texas Guard at Ellington Air Force base on reserve statis. Still looking for old friends Ed Nixon (San Antonio) one from Renton washington, the old crooked finger 1st Class that was to egg headed.One thing to remember Dont drink the San Magiel or White Horse Whiskey, wear your rubbers and dont go with anyone that does not have a HOSTESS CARD that is up to date. I also remember a certain jeep that got turned over in Subic Bay by some drunk sailors that was driven by Marine Shore Patrol (I wasnt there, thats my story and i'm sticking to it). Oh this list goes on and on but another time. I was ther , done that., and thats that! IF you remember any of this Then you were one of the NOTED CORAL SEA RODEO CLUB MEMBERTS and you ought to be ashamed. I'm Not. JOE T. COWARD (AKA- SKIVEY WAVER) <melissacoward@aol.com> - Friday, February 01, 2002 at 21:56:07 (EST) Just found this website. My name is Carl Young (CV), I served aboard the Coral Sea in B Div. from 2/64 thru 11/67. I was assigned mainly in 1 Able Fireroom, with a short tour in 3 Baker and 1 Baker Firerooms. Would like to hear from some of the old gang during this time frame. Carl Young (CV) <carlyoung1@mindspring.com> - Friday, February 01, 2002 at 16:50:59 (EST) have injoyed finding this sight, just outstandig. E.W. MOON -ABF3 <emoonjr@kscable.com> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 21:03:44 (EST) I served aboard the CORAL SEA 1947-1951 I believe that is the reason I served 20 years. Ihave been to several reunions met a lot of people I knew. There are still some that were very good friends that I would like to hear from. This is A great page. Thanks for starting it. Robert M. Thompson EMC RET. <Rdthmpsn51@aol.com> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 15:56:51 (EST) X Division 62- 64 - anybody remember one of the ship's awac's crashing on approach during the 63 cruise? Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 00:08:40 (EST) g1 division 1984-1988 scott feldt - Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 20:40:50 (EST) My father Michael Sejuit who served aboard both the Coral Sea and the Enterprise from 67-71 passed away on January 20, 2002. His stories which were plentiful will always be remembered by those who loved him, and he loved his friends from those times and told his family many a stories. He would have wanted all his comrades to know. Michael Sejuit <rangers@evenlink.com> - Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 14:34:56 (EST) I was on the Coral Sea in 1988. I have always been a huge fan of her ever since I built a moddel of her when I was a kid in the late sixties. My dream came true when I was working with Barbara Mandrell and she did a show on the hangar deck. She flew out to the ship in an F-18 with RADM Macke at the controls, and we followed her in a C-2 COD. I had the choice to stay on board for two days, or do a catapult take-off, I opted to stay. It was a great adventure, one I still rate as one of the best in my life. I met many crewmembers who treated me like gold, and I would love to get in touch with any of you that remember me. Please email me at the above address if you want. I look forward to hearing from you, and I miss the Coral Sea. Cosmo Wilson <cosmo@cosmo.com> - Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 12:59:07 (EST) Was on board 61-63 DC3 Worked in carpenter shop. Do we have an Association. Francis X. O'Brien <FranCarol@webtv.net> - Monday, January 28, 2002 at 16:23:16 (EST) Hello all you folks. I was aboard her from 1986to the end of 1988. I was part of the center cat crew ( Cat 3 )... I was a abe3 and worked for Abe1 Spencer, and chief English. I came to the coral sea when she was in the dry dock. After work ups we left for the med... I flew home from Israrl...loved that old ship....I hope to hear from people I knew back then. Richard Garrison <rgarrison71565@aol.com> - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 23:14:38 (EST) Looking for "A" gang members from 82 to 85 or any others. Great site, I have found 3 old shipmates so far want to find more!! Rich Carson <carson1@adelphia.net> - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 10:22:03 (EST) I was onboard from 79-82 in the s-2 div.Feel to e-mail me if you remember me James Graf "JJ" <jamesjgraf@cs.com> - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 08:47:40 (EST) My brother Charles served aboard the Coral Sea. Frank Rodriguez, jr. <sonny6226@yahoo.com> - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 16:50:47 (EST) Enjoyed your site. Thank you. Bill Craig IC3 49-53 <ajcraig@ipclp.com> - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 10:14:41 (EST) this is a great tribute, im glad i found it. i was in "X" div in 1963 for the entire year. loved australia. mark h etchell <mhe1385@aol.com> - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 18:18:45 (EST) I was on her from 82 till 85. I worked in "A" GANG, Diesels. I would love to hear from the old gang. Tim Coomer <tjcoomer@bcremc.net> - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 23:42:13 (EST) Looking for some of the old B divison dudes 65-68 the good, the bad, and the ugly Harold Morrison, Don Helms, Jim Honkanen,Frank Lovello . Contact me e-mail or 253-847-0299. Don Hamann <hossmeister@msn.com> - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 11:08:08 (EST) I SERVED ABOARD THE CORAL SEA FROM MAY OF 79 TO AUG OF 81.I WAS A QUARTERMASTER AND I'M TRYING TO FIND OTHER QM'S OR THE BM'S THAT CAME TO THE BRIDGE FOR THERE WATCH, OR THE SNIPES THAT CAME TO AFTER STEERING FOR THERE WATCH OR TO JUST GET AWAY FOE AWHILE.I LOVED THE CORAL SEA AND HATED HER AT THE SAME TIME,BUT I KEEP FINDING MY THOUGHTS GOING BACK TO HER,I HAVE A T-SHIRT ON MY WALL "I WAS THERE 102 DAYS AT SEA AND IT SUCKED"GONZO STATION.MY SHELL BACK CERTIFICATE IS PROUDLY HUNG ON MY WALL,(DIDN'T YOU JUST LOVE SHELL BACK DAY),GREEN EGGS GREEN EVERYTHING. BILL BRADBURY <MYFACE2HERS@AOL.COM> - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 01:16:39 (EST) Just found this site, outstanding. Attached to VA-52 Knight Riders AO's and served from 1968-1969 on the Coral Sea. Rate was AO2 while aboard. Hell of a ship, kicked some butt in Nam for sure. Keep up the good work!! Frank Pulkinen <frankandsherry@peoplepc.com> - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:58:58 (EST) V4 division..recomm crew '59 to '62.GOD BLESSED HER........ E.O. Whitmire <eowii@aol.com> - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 14:05:12 (EST) Served aboard the Coral Sea early 1960 a LCPL with VMA 121 as a plane captain. The ship was home to our A4D2 Skyhawks, some F4H Demons and Ads. We lost a pilot on a weak cat shot and one, Lt. Elder who never returned from the launch. The most memorable event however was a firery crash by a Navy pilot on landing when he hit hard, crashed and burst into flames as the aircraft continued down the flight deck taking out six plus aircraft parked on the port forward side of the ship. Anyone remember. Our call sign was Victore Kilo (VK) and our A4s had tail and wing tips painted green. Semper Fi all, WDR Jr. GYSgt USMC Ret. W.D. Ravgiala, Jr. GYSgt USMC Ret. <wravgiala@lucent.com> - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 13:40:21 (EST) Great site. Served in "R" division, metal shop, 66-69. Kiddie cruiser. Have grown up some since then. Wondering what became of some of the guys I served with. Vaske, Pecos, Crispell, Zimba, Laub, and others whose names I don't remember. Bob Vincent "vinnie" <bavincent@worldnet.att.net> - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 11:26:48 (EST) Good site, much info. Take a look at the Bemilforum. http://bemilforum.bravepages.com David <david.vandroogenbroeck@pandora.be> - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 08:32:16 (EST) Wonderful site. It really brought back memories. I was with the EOD Detachment (LPO) during World Cruise 83. Take care. Ed BMCM(EOD) Ed Rodgers <ed@rodgersweb.net> - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 01:43:43 (EST) Served on board 1960-63 4-Able fireroom.--Lookin for anyold snipes in B-Div. around that time.--- E-Mail will change in a few days, will sign th book again when I get my new address Sammy Owens <lwsambo@ctesc.net> - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 22:30:45 (EST) Served aboard March-73 to Sept-76, B Division, in 4 Able and 4 Charlie Firerooms. Where are you Arch Stiyer, Ray Morrision. Didn't hear back from you after the first time Paul Wallace. Does anyone remember the many T.V. and press stories that hit the bay area about the living conditions aboard Coral Sea just prior to 74 Cruise. Ray's wife was a big instigator and poor old Fireman Apprentience Ray had to go up to get his butt chewed out by Capt. Rogers. He never made Admiral after that and I am sure it had alot to do with all the bad press. Can't believe 25 years have gone by. Anyone else out there, Jones, Jumpin Jimmy Johnson, Leo Stuart Webb <sbjwebb@msn.com> - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 21:13:24 (EST) Great Website. I was aboard with VF-111 from Nov 71 to Jul 72. Bill Freckleton <bill.freckleton@f22ctf.edwards.af.mil> - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 13:33:48 (EST) TAO/NTDS Officer '86-'89. CDR Andy Crepea, USNR (ret) <acrepea@west.raytheon.com> - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 15:25:30 (EST) hello shipmates i;am still looking for people in the B-div and Engineering Div from west pac 79-80..i would like to hear from anyone who served the grand ole lady uss coral sea!! i would also like to thank the person who did this website..i;am hopeing to hear from some of my friends that i made for life..i;am living here in arkansas..i check this website everday in hoping to hear or see a name that looks familier to me..i look at my old cruise book that i got!! take care to all shipmates that served aboard the coral sea what a ship!! BILLY D.HAUK>>BILLY CHEESEBURGER..ALSO CALLED THE ARKANSAS KID <HAUK5@AOL.COM> - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 15:11:19 (EST) 1976-1980 Cat #1 V-2 Division William M. Brinker <bbrinker@tigernet.missouri.org> - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 11:54:59 (EST) I was in VA-52 and did a west pac on the Coral Sea from Sept 1968 to April 1969.I would love to hear from any of the guys from the old squadron.Can anyone tell me where and how i can get a cruis book for that west pac? Ray Luther <deputydawg1319@hotmail.com> - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 01:14:01 (EST) I served aboard the Uss Coral Sea CVA43 from 1951 to 1953. I was in the communications department O2R division. Andrew Parrish <lhaines794@attbi.com> - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 20:43:05 (EST) I Would like to here from any B-Division guys who served from 1973 to 1974. Richard Welchel BT-3 <REWy2k@aol.com> - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 17:54:31 (EST) Forgot to mention in last entry, I served from end of January 1980 to end of July 1983. Paul E. Garner <pmragar@yahoo.com> - Friday, January 18, 2002 at 16:28:37 (EST) Spent about 2 1/2 years onboard in OE division. Maintained SPN-42 radar system and ran the UHF radio space. Had some good times and am proud to have served aboard her. Hope to hear from any shipmates, especcially those from OE division. Paul E. Garner <pmragar@yahoo.com> - Friday, January 18, 2002 at 16:25:25 (EST) I no longer have the books I listed here. I am so grateful to all of Dennis' shipmates and hope they enjoy them. God bless you all. Judy Pailley <Judyrn25@webtv.net> - Friday, January 18, 2002 at 09:58:24 (EST) HEY SHIPMATES!!AFTER VEIWING THE CORAL SEA WEBSITE WHICH IS SO GREAT AND BRINGING BACK GREAT MEMORIES I DIDN;T KNOW THAT THEY SCRAPED ONE OF THE GREATEST SHIPS IN THE FLEET! STILL LOOKING FOR SOME OF MY OLD SHIPMATES..FROM 3-CHARLIE FIREROOM LIKE ..GARY JOHNSON..FRANK GOREL..J ELLIOTT..BOB EVANS..GREG QUICK..J TETTENBORN ..J ANDERSON..CHIEF DAVEY..CHIEF MACK..THERE;S SO MANY TO PUT DOWN IF YOU KNOW WHERE THESE GUYS ARE..HEARD FROM THEM PLEASE SEND ME AN E-MAIL!! I;AM HERE IN ARKANSAS..WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANY SHIPMATE FROM THE CORAL SEA..MADE WEST PAC 79-80 IN THE IRANING CRISIS AND KOREA AND OTHER PLACES..I HOPE THEY NAME ANOTHER SHIP THAT THERE BUILDING THE CORAL SEA..!!! WHAT CAN WE DO LET ME KNOW!! THANKS AGAIN FROM BILLY D.HAUK..WAS CALLED BILLY CHEESEBURGER IN THE BOILER ROOM AND ALSO THE ARKANSAS KID!! TAKE CARE SHIPMATES!! BILLY D.HAUK <HAUK5@AOL.COM> - Thursday, January 17, 2002 at 11:13:59 (EST) I am still Alive and well in Garner North Carolina. Use to Live in Tucson, AZ and in N.A.S Lemoore with ATKRON 97 WARHAWKS. Glad to see that there are a few of us still on here!! Ron Greene, Scott Wisnieski. Were are all the rest of you? We cant be the only three hell raisers from the Killer Squadron that are left!! Bless all fellow USS Coral Sea Shipmates and hope to hear from Y'all LOL 1979-1983 USN David McLean <WnterHeat2@aol.com> - Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 20:25:48 (EST) THIS IS GREAT!! FINALLY GOT THE WEBSITE TO THE GRAND OLE LADY!! WHAT A SHIP THAT I SERVED ON AND THE PEOPLE I WAS WITH!! ON WAS ON THE CORAL SEA FROM 78 TO 80.I WAS IN THE ENGINEERING DIV AND I WAS A BOILER TECH IN THE CHARLIE FIRE ROOM.ALSO WORKED IN THE ENGINEERING OFFICE FOR R.L.KLINE AND WE HAD A GREAT CAPT RICHARD DUNLEAVY.I MISS THE GRAND OLE LADY CORAL SEA & MISS ALL THE BOILER SNIPES! WE KEPT THAT BAD BABY GOING FORWARD! IT WAS HOTTER THAN HELL IN THE BOILER ROOM BUT I LOVED IT! MADE ALOT OF VERY GREAT FRIENDS THAT I TRUELY MISS NOW AND THE GOOD AND WILD TIMES WHEN WE HIT THE BEACH AND OVER SEAS!! I WISH I COULD FIND SOME PEOPLE THAT I SERVED WITH AND KEEP IN CONTACT..I LIVE IN ARKANSAS PLEASE CONTACT ME FOLKS OK!PLEASE CONTACT ME AT HAUK5@AOL.COM AND ALSO IN THE ENGINEERING DIV OR BOILER DIV ON THE CORAL SEA! I;AM SEARCHING FOR MANY LOST FRIENDS THAT I MADE FOR LIFE. WE WAS IN THE IRANING RESCUE MISSION WE WAS IN THE INDIAN OCEAN AND PERSION GULF FOR 103 DAYS OF STEAMIN..WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHERE THE CORAL SEA IS NOW.I HAVE 3 SONS I WISH SOMEDAY TO TAKE TO SEE.THANKS AGAIN FROM A BOILER TECH FROM THE CHARLIE FIREROOM!!! HOPE TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE SOON!! THANKS AGAIN FROM BILLY D.HAUK..LONOKE ARKANSAS!! BILLY D. HAUK <HAUK5@AOL.COM> - Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 16:57:30 (EST) I served with Attack Squadron 55 as Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd class assigned to CAG 13 on board CV-43 from 1984 until 1988 nicknmae was BIG B Looking for all ordie shipmates contact me if you wish BIG B Michael S. Bulger <territwo@hereintown.net> - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 21:35:37 (EST) Oooops! Santa actually brought my Coral Sea Cap, and Jacket from the USS CORAL SEA ASSOCIATION SHIP'S STORE. Association dues only $10 a year. See ya.. Chuck Bell <CBellthe1@aol.com> - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 19:52:32 (EST) Was PN2 in X Div 62-63, Sydney cruise. Have been successful finding and renewing old friends here. Jack "Charlie" Noble keep trying, I hope you find out more on Puckett. Santa Clause brought me a real nice Coral Sea cap, and jacket for Xmas. My favorite Xmas gift this year. Wife found it in store on this website. What can I say about this website that hasn't already been said. Keep on keeping on. Would like to find Woolwoorth, Animal, J.O. Parsons, Dan Tom, Haley, and any from 62/63 X div. See ya later.. Chuck Bell <Cbellthe1@aol.com> - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 18:42:23 (EST) I was a piper with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada Pipe Band that played at the re-commissioning of the USS Coral Sea in 1960. I have a picture of the band playing at the Coral Sea's visit to Vancouver the year after the re-commissioning. I enjoyed the event and congratulate you on the website. Robert Skelly <rskelly@shaw.ca> - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 18:22:28 (EST) Where are all the Warhawks of VA97 78-82? Hey Dave I got your email but I don't remember if I answered you or not and now it's gone. Email me back. How about it Mark, Antonio, Robie, Murph (Nothin for nothin Murph but what did you fall off the end of the earth), Big John, (I saw Big John this summer, or should I say Retired Master Chief) Hey Willy do they even have computers where you come from yet ??? And any of the rest of you I forgot to mention, drop me a line. Ron Greene <rgreene@siac.com> - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 16:06:03 (EST) EM3 1968-1969 in Distribution and Upper Deck Lighting. Would love to hear from any other of you degenerates that served so proudly with me during those days. Man, we had some good times. Russ Poole <rbpoole1@msn.com> - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 22:12:48 (EST) i served on uss. coral sea cva-43 between 1951/1955. 6th div. gunnersmate, mount 313.looking for anyone that served with me. robert karish <rcarx@yahoo.com> - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 14:24:28 (EST) Great site--you've done a lot of work. I was on-board from June of 1966 until September of 1968 as a supply officer, primarily in S-3 but also in S-6. CORAL SEA was a great ship and it pains the heart to see her scrapped! Bill Fitch <billfitch12@attbi.com> - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 13:39:52 (EST) Looking for old friends on Med cruise April 1953 To october 1953 Joe Protsko,George Kendal, Tom Forilo,Ozaveck,Gibson Jake. Eugene Renner <usn771@aol.com> - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 11:52:33 (EST) Looking for old friends on Med cruise April 1953 To october 1953 Joe Brotsko,George Kendal, Tom Forilo,Ozaveck,Gibson Jake. Eugene Renner <usn771@aol.com> - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 11:49:19 (EST) I served on the Coral Sea (1955~1957) as a photographer and have lots of happy, as well as sad, memories of my times aboard the Ageless Warrior. Here's just a few: --Sunday mass on the forecastle, kneeling against the anchor chains will the jets took off over our heads. ---The massive AJ crash in '56 and the heroism of the damage control crews in saving lives. ---The movies on the galley deck (and the ice cream that would not melt--what was that stuff made of anyway?) ---The plane that tried but just couldn’t seem to land (after his attempt to land the 4th time I was ordered to rush develop my 16mm footage of the planes approach and run it wet through the projector –result: aircraft's landing hook was installed "upside-down"---good OLE' Murphy's Law) ----Laundry day, dragging the 8 foot laundry bags packed w/my department soiled clothes through the hanger bay at 3AM, then sleeping on top of them till it was our turn in the laundry ----Struggling up 2 decks carrying a huge colander of Jell-O from the food lockers, 2 deck below, up to the galley ---Sliding across a ice laden flight deck while making my way from takeoffs to landings as the deck pitched in its turn into the wind ---Crossing the Atlantic in a hurricane Feb. 1957 while heading back to the states from the Med and last, but not least, the ship’s crashing into the Canard Lines pier in New York( I guess the captain was trying to make it to a Broadway show with the whole crew). Mike Delaney, PH2 <stmikepb@mediaone.net> - Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 17:44:55 (EST) Anybody from 85-86 ned cruise that worked in v-2 esp.drop a note. AL METZ if you read this drop me an e-mail,been only 15 yrs. Had some really good times on her the 4 years I was there. All who have served on here remeber,cold showers,heads that didn't work, long chow lines. But we wouldn't trade our time for anything. Allan Jones Allan Jones(Jonesy) <al18roll@aol.com> - Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 17:36:35 (EST) i was an AMS3 on the Coral Sea VA153 between 66-69. I am looking for anyone else that may have served in my squardron, "bluetail flies". contact me at rdabga@hotmail.com Dale Bottoms <rdabga@hotmail.com> - Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 11:17:24 (EST) (66-67) Blue shirt on flight deck. Larry Lindsey <Miataman95@hotmail.com> - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 21:04:20 (EST) X Division 1962 - 1964. Still looking for more information about a sailor named "Puckett" who was sent to the brig on the way from Pearl to Sydney during the 1963 cruise, jumped ship at sea, never found. He was from VAH-2 from the best info I have. Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 01:06:04 (EST) Served 1984-1987. Deck and Operation departments. kim schooley <tax1saver@aol.com> - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 00:17:34 (EST) I was on the Med cruise of April 26, 1953 through October 21, 1953 was in V-1-H Hanger deck crew. Eugene Renner <usn771@aol.com> - Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 19:32:32 (EST) I am a paralegal in Raleigh, North Carolina looking for anyone who may have served with Robert Cornatzer on the USS Sea Coral. He served as a electrician mate from 67-71. Please contact me at the following number if you have any recollection of serving with Robert. Just ask for Amy Dement. Thank you! The number is 1-800-662-1234 Amy Dement - Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 09:33:36 (EST) Was onboard the Coral Sea with the Air Wing in VF-151 Vigilantes during the 1969 WestPac. I was an AQ3 and this was my first cruise. Worked the flight deck as a radar trouble-shooter on the Phantoms. Would love to hear from anyone from VF-151 AQ's from 1968 - 1972. God Bless America! Robin Dean <robinsdean@earthlink.net> - Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 20:45:59 (EST) I searved on her from 72-75. My rate was SH3 in the S3 Div. and I worked in the cobbler shop then the smoke shop. I was known as BIG WALLY. I'm looking for a 1973 cruise patch and or Picture. CAN SOME ONE HELP ME WITH THIS. Also did we recive any Ribbons or Medals during 73 cruise? I remember getting free mail and combat pay. Some one said the navy is good about not updating records and giving you your awards!!!!! My dd214 says National Defence only and I just noticed it the other day and my family does not belive i was there in VIETNAM WAR. I thought we were awarded them.I was wearing them.. Can some one help me on this. I WOULD NEVER TRADE NOTHING FOR THE TIME I SPENT IN NAVY. I have a son and daughter in navy as we speak........ Thanks BIG WALLY Harry Wiseley <cva43@brightok.net> - Monday, January 07, 2002 at 16:54:12 (EST) Happy new year to all you shipmates out there! Now hear this, all former members of VF-154: please check out our web site at http://www.geocities.com/randykelso/vf154page.htm and be advised that you are all invited to the informal VF-154 reunion at Panama City Beach, Florida in late April '02. Read all about it at http://forums.delphiforums.com/vf154/start where you may log in as a guest or create an account. Randy Kelso, former AQF2, VF-154/USS Coral Sea 1964-66 Randy Kelso <randy_kelso@hotmail.com> - Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 16:37:13 (EST) served aboard from 1979-82 worked in G2/G4 alligator maint.made two west-pac cruises I was AO3 also I remember the 102 days in the indian ocean just wondering if any of my old shipmates are uot there. Norman P Clarke <normanc100@msn.com> - Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 09:03:58 (EST) Served aboard 1962 - 1964 as MAA Yeoman,then Captain's Office. I'm the guy who's still trying to find how the Navy listed a kid named "Puckett" from VAH-2 who jumped ship while we were at sea early in the 1963 cruise after being sent to the brig. Lots of brass and family met the ship when we got back to Alameda after the President was shot - I just want to know what they called his disapperance Jack "Charley" Noble <far@d-web.com> - Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 00:00:21 (EST) Performed a search to find specific information about the fate of the Coral Sea (CV-43) and found this site. Good job on the site! Was on board from 1981 to 1984 as a Machinist Mate in the No 2 Engine Room with M2 division. I really want to thank all those people who contributed to Coral Sea. Really good memories and so many learning opportunities. Good luck to you all, CM Cliff Murphy <Cliff_murphy@hotmail.com> - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 23:18:10 (EST) i was on the coral sea from sept 1968 until april 1969. we were west pac off the coast of vietnam.that was a very eye opening cruise.i was with va-52 the a-6 squadron then.i saw that you take stories of mishaps that happened oboard ship. i have one.there was a purple shirt (refueling crew) that got out of the starboard catwalk and walk for no known reason in front of a f-4 phantom justt as it was catted off. the leading edge of the wing right at the wingfold caught him in the head and decapated him. never did know why he went across the flight deck during ops.don't know if you want to use that but there you are. glad i found this site cause i really loved the old girl, she was a great ship orville r. luther <deputydawg@hotmail.com > - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 22:35:25 (EST) Served in AIMD IM-2 hydraulic shop and buddy stores between 84-88. Sad to know that she's all gone. robert k pedersen jr <pedeym14@aol.com> - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 20:39:40 (EST) Served aboard 1976-79, went from JOSA - JO2. We griped and moaned about that veteran old carrier, but it has a special place in my heart. Sad to see it, and NAS Alameda go. Would be glad to hear from any old shipmates. By and large, I enjoyed my time aboard, and when I didn't, I'd just grit my teeth and say to myself, "GI BIll, GI BIll..." Love the site, and I will be digging through my photos to see if there's anything I can contribute. Bruce Jones <brucejones57@hotmail.com> - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 10:48:30 (EST) walley why don't you have an e-mail adress william vanderteems <vanderteems@devil.com> - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 06:33:12 (EST) looking for breck, george or oregeta william vander teems <vnderteems@devil.com> - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 06:27:58 (EST) are there any signalman with a compter knowledee from 67 till 70 looking for breck or oregat they will kow who vandy or t---. william vander teems <vanderteems@devil.com> - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 05:54:22 (EST) Was on board from 69-71. I was in S-2 division. Worked a lot in the doggie dinner and forward bakeshop. Also made that gret ice cream you all ate. Still have the receipe to that stuf. Do you all remember those great cinammon buns we use to make. Hope we didn't make to many of you sick. I remember those great ships picnics we had on Granbie Island in Subic Bay. Well, from this ex CS3 to all of you reading this, have a great new year. John Reynolds <johnnlnr@pcola .gulf.net> - Friday, January 04, 2002 at 20:58:30 (EST) I have signed on before. Was on the Coral Maru 60-61 & 61-62 cruises. Am still looking for shipmate Dennis Woolworth. We were in X Division (Personnel Office) Would like to hear from anyone who might know of "Wooly's where abouts. Thanks, Hap Darwin "Hap" Litzell <mrhap@baldwin-telecom.net> Woodville, Wisconsin USA - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 20:06:32 (EST) I am looking for anyone who may have known my late husband, Roger Bickley BTFN. He was on the Coral Sea sometime in the early 70's during the cruise to Sasebo and Perth. Any information would be appreciated. Thank you. Kathy Bickley <rainwalker_3@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 18:57:19 (EST) Was aboard as EOD for WestPac 1973 Jerry Cook <jerrycook@prodigy.net> - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 13:05:05 (EST) WELL FELLOWS WE REACHED ANOTHER NEW YEARS. KEEP THE GOOD MEMORY OF THE CORAL SEA ALIVE AND WELL OLD SHIPMATES OF MINE, 22 OCTOBER 1964 TO 6 APRIL 1968 AND 15 JUNE 1977 TO 12 SEPTEMBER 1983 STROKING THOSE BIRDS ON THE FLIGHT AND HANGAR DECKS OF ALL CARRIERS NOW THAT THE BEST IN THE WEST IS LAID TO REST. WE WILL ALWAYS CONTINUE ON NOW THAT WE GOT 11 SEPTEMBER 2001 TO THINK ABOUT. JUST THINK WHEN WE LEFT NAS ALAMEDA 7 DECEMBER 1964 JUST 23 YEARS AFTER THAT FATAL DAY OF PEARL HARBOR THAT EXACTLY TWO MONTHS LATER ON A SUNDAY 7 FEBRUARY 1965 THE CORAL SEA, HANCOCK AND RANGER WOULD MAKE RETALITORY AIR STRIKES AGAINST THE NORTH VIETNAMESE. BACK TO WAR WE WENT BACK THEN JUST LIKE NOW. WE WILL DO WHAT IS RIGHT AS ALWAYS AND THOSE AIRCRAFT CARRIERS WILL BE THERE JUST LIKE THE CORAL SEA WAS. THE GREATEST AIRCRAFT CARRIER AFLOAT PERIOD AS FAR AS I'M CONCERNED. WALT THE SALT WALTER HARDY,JR. ABH-1 USN RETIRED <HARDYBUILT@AOL.COM> - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 02:37:15 (EST) Looks Great!!!! I'll read more later when I have more time. I do have some pictures you may like. I was a pilot in VFA-132 during the 85-86 Med Cruise. Keep up the good work!! Brad Meeder <meeder4@cyberz.net> - Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 18:32:38 (EST) Served aboard the Coral Sea from 63-67 as a "kiddy cruiser". Happy New Year. Moe Briggs CS 3 S2 Division. Elmore T. Briggs "Moe" <sumoe@erols.com> - Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 14:42:09 (EST) I was in VAW-11 Detachment Delta on the 1964-65 deployment. Of course, this was the first combat deployment of Coral Sea during the Vietman War. I was an AT3 then made AT2 during that time. It was the big adventure of my life and I will never forget it. It truly was history in the making and Coral Sea was part of that. I am looking for anyone that was in VAW-11 in the detachment that was deployed as part of Air Wing 15 during that time. Please email me at above address. Thanks. 1-1-02 M. Wadle now living in my home state of Iowa Maurice Wadle AKA Mike <moewadle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 10:32:00 (EST) Wishing a Happy New Year to all those who served on the Coral Sea. AIMD IM3 Division '76-'79 AE2 Robert Ogan <rdogan@military.com> - Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 00:07:53 (EST) HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! MM in "M" and "A" Div. from 85-89. Jon Allen <kalakala_1@hotmail.com> - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 17:06:31 (EST) Happy new year. Hope to read many messages during the coming year. This past year,after finding this site,has been memorable. I came aboard in April 1951 and again In June 1952, as I was with the Air Group.I has bee a long time. I was 17 when I first boarded, my next birthday will be 69 and a lot of water has gone under the bridge, but I remember the Coral Sea with fondness. FREDERICK B. KNOESEL CS3,VF44 <fred@knoesel.net> - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 19:26:20 (EST) !!!!!!!!!! Help !!!!!!!!!!
I need YOUR help to make this site great. I need any stories, photo's or ships information that you have on the Coral Sea. I can scan photo's for you if you don't have a scanner, email me for details. Please donate your memories so all Coral Sea crew members and their family's can enjoy this site to its fullest. Also let me know if anything you see here is in error. Thanks!!!
Contact me, Bob Dorais, at: cv43@usscoralsea.net
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