Nick Name/Call Sign: Sauce

Rank/Rate: AN/E-3

Division/Squadron: V-4 Div Air Dept

Years Aboard: 1968-1972

Location: Deland, Florida USA

Comments: Here's wishing to all the men and women who serving all around the world and who served a "Happy New Year". "Happy New Year" to all the Grapes and to all my friends who served with me on the Coral Sea. Sauce

Rank/Rate: MS3

Division/Squadron: S-5

Years Aboard: 1984-1988

Location: Covington, Ky USA

Comments: Looking for old friends I have found a bunch on Facebook, looking for Dufus, Slim, Chris Dunbar and Gieves

Nick Name/Call Sign: Pres,. USS Coral Sea CVA-43 Assoc.

Rank/Rate: QM2

Division/Squadron: N Div.

Years Aboard: 7/67-4/69

Location: Ft. Thomas, kY. USA

Comments: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all former USS Coral Sea crewmembers. Please remember those who even now guard the gates of freedom.
Greetings to all CVA-43 Assoc. members. If you're not a member, why not? Give yourself a Christmas gift that you will enjoy for a lifetime & join the USS Coral Sea Assoc. today. See details on this website links section for the CVA-43 Assoc. website & the membership application.
Godspeed!

Rank/Rate: ADJ2

Division/Squadron: V6-AIMD

Years Aboard: 66-69

Location: Ft. Lauderdale, Florida USA

Comments: Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year, I remember singing Silent Night, when Bob Hope brought his Chrismas show to the Coral Sea, in 1968, not a dry eye in the hanger bay.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Oscar

Rank/Rate: BTFN

Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom

Years Aboard: 1974-77

Location: Chicago, Illinois USA

Comments: Merry Christmas to All, Remember those serving overseas, the worst thing being a serviceman is being away from home for Christmas.

Rank/Rate: PR3

Division/Squadron: VAQ 135 Det 3

Years Aboard: 1971-1973

Location: Lafayette, Indiana USA

Comments: Merry Christmas to all. It was 40 years ago today that we were perched on the USS Coral Sea hangar bay wall awaiting the Bob Hope Christmas Day Show. But, as conflicts go, on the eve of Christmas, the show was cancelled, the stage torn down, and flight ops began at daybreak. Good soldiers and sailors do not regret their duty and always honor their missions. Happy Holidays to all.

Nick Name/Call Sign: RED

Rank/Rate: BTFN

Division/Squadron: B DIV

Years Aboard: 1989-1990 DECOM

Location: Winston-Salem, N.C. USA

Comments: I loved my time onboard it was just to short.

Rank/Rate: AN (E-3)

Division/Squadron: V-4 & Messdeck YN for 6 mo.

Years Aboard: 64-66

Location: Vallejo, CA USA

Comments: I haven't been here for a few months, but alway enjoy looking through the pages and posts.I made a portable "acie-ducie" board out of 1/4" plexiglass during the '65 cruise..and I still have it. Many a game played on that board..and many a memory of the time spent onboard. Not the happiest time for many of us, but as the years go by, the good times and memories far outshine the bad times. Happy New Year and Merry Christmas to all..

Rank/Rate: AO3

Division/Squadron: V3O

Years Aboard: 1950-1953

Location: mendota hts, mn. USA

Comments: looking for anyone who served in this division

Nick Name/Call Sign: ski

Rank/Rate: ao3

Division/Squadron: V3O

Years Aboard: 1950-1953

Location: mendota hts., mn. USA

Comments: looking for anyone who served in ordnace in 1951

Nick Name/Call Sign: Remedy

Rank/Rate: AMH-3

Division/Squadron: VA-94

Years Aboard: '71-'72 and '73

Location: Inver Grove Heights, MN USA

Comments: Herbert Anderson,
Drop me a note at remhof@q.com. We have a Face Book page that we would like you to join. It's VA-94 Mighty Shrikes.
Hope to hear from you.
Marc

Nick Name/Call Sign: Mak-eye

Rank/Rate: MM-3

Division/Squadron: A-1 hydraulics

Years Aboard: 1965-1968

Location: Rice lake, WI USA

Comments: Seeing Walt The Salts comments brought back a lot of memories. we were aboard about the same time. I finished A-School in July of 65, didn't extend to go to nuclear power school so they sent me out to the fleet with another guy from MN. Being on board was one of the best experiences of my life. We worked hard and played hard. I still get the goosebumbs when I haes Ernest Tubbs sing "FILLIPINO BABY' HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR. From an old Snipe who got to work above deck.

Nick Name/Call Sign: BIG AL

Rank/Rate: DKSN

Division/Squadron: S-4

Years Aboard: 1969-70

Location: GARDNERVILLE, NV USA

Comments: My first cruise on the Coral Muru. I was a DK striker and learned the basics of my rate aboard this ship. Lots of good liberty with the guys. I later got out of the Navy on shore duty in Alameda as a DK3. Advanced to DK2 in the reserves. My Senior Chief got me a civil service job. I became Deputy Director of the examination team in San Diego. I went to the Far East many times during my career. I ended up with over 35 years with the Navy.

Nick Name/Call Sign: WALT THE SALT

Rank/Rate: ABH-1 U.S. NAVY RETIRED

Division/Squadron: V-1 AND V-3 DIVISION

Years Aboard: OCT.22,1964 TO 6 APR. 1968 AND JUNE 17, 1977 TO SEPT. 12, 1983

Location: STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA USA

Comments: HELLO SHIPMATES WELL WE ALL KNOW THAT ON THIS DATE 70 YEARS AGO THE JAPANESE BOMBED PEARL HARBOR JUST BEFORE 0800 AM THAT SUNDAY MORNING AND HISTORY WAS MADE WITH "A DATE THAT WILL LIVE IN INFAMY". HISTORY WAS ALSO MADE ON THAT VERY SAME DATE 23 YEARS LATER WHEN THE U.S.S. CORAL SEA CVA-43 LEFT NAS ALAMEDA, CALIFORNIA AT 0800 AM HEADING ON HER FOURTH WESTPAC "PEACETIME" CRUISE TO THE FAR EAST WITH A SCHEDULE ANY SAILOR WOULD DIE FOR WITH PORTS-OF-CALLS TO SOME GREAT LIBERTY PORTS BUT THERE IS ALWAYS THAT BUT THROWN IN THERE SOMEWHERE.
THE VIETCONG OF NORTH VIETNAM HAD OTHER IDEAS FOR US AMERICANS. WE HAD A SALT WATER LEAK IN A SUPPLY TANK THAT MADE US STAY IN HAWAII FOR 36 DAY WHICH ALSO GAVE US A NEW CAPTAIN GEORGE L. CASSELL ON JANUARY 15, 1965 AND THE NEXT DAY WE WERE HEADING ON OUR FIRST SCHEDULE OVERSEAS PORT OF MANILA. I CAME TO THE SHIP WITH TWO OTHER "AE" SCHOOL DROPOUT FROM JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA ON OCTOBER 22,1964 AND ALL US NEW GUYS WERE SO EXCITED WHEN WE HEARD THE NEWS THAT WE WERE GOING ON A WESTPAC CRUISE OVERSEAS AND I WAS GOING TO ALL MY DREAM PLACES I WANTED TO SEE AS A KID GROWING UP IN BALTIMORE LIKE HAWAII, JAPAN AND HONG KONG OF THE ORIENT. I WAS PROBABLY MORE EXCITED THAN TEN SAILORS AND BEING NEW TO THE SHIP I LISTENED TO EVERY SEA STORY EVER TOLD TO ME BY ALL THE SALT WHO TOLD ME WE WERE MAKING A "ISLAND HOPPING" WESTPAC CRUISE THIS TIME WITH TWO WEEKS AT SEA BETWEEN EACH PORT-OF-CALL WITH A STOP IN AUSTRALIA FOR THE "BATTLE OF THE CORAL SEA MEMORIAL CEREMONY" HELD THERE EVERY YEAR.

WELL ALL OF THAT JUST DIDN'T HAPPEN THAT CRUISE AFTER WE LEFT HAWAII JANUARY 16, 1965 YES WE WENT TO THE PHILIPPINES OUR VERY FIRST PORT-OF-CALL FOR 4 HOURS OF 10 PERCENT LIBERTY FOR THE CHOSEN FEW AND I SURELY WASN'T ONE OF THEM. SO I WALKED OUT ON ELEVATOR ONE AND LOOKED OUT OVER THE AIR FIELD AND SAID TO MYSELF "SO THIS IS THE PHILIPPINES" AND IT WAS ABOUT 110 DEGREE IN THE SHADE THAT DAY. THE VERY NEXT TIME WE SEEN THE PHILIPPINES WAS 52 DAYS LATER FOR THOSE OF US WHO DIDN'T TOUCH LAND AND THAT TWO WEEKS AT SEA DEAL WAS THROWN OUT THE WINDOW LONG AGO.

EXACTLY 2 MONTHS AFTER LEAVING NAS ALAMEDA ON DECEMBER 7, 1964 ON ANOTHER SUNDAY FEBRUARY 7, 1965 THE U.S.S. CORAL SEA, U.S.S. HANCOCK AND U.S.S. RANGER MADE RETALIATORY AIR STRIKES ON THE VIETCONG OF NORTH VIETNAM. SURE THAT WAS 47 YEARS AGO TODAY BUT I REMEMBER IT JUST LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY. WHEN THE CAPTAIN CAME OVER ON THE 1MC AND SAID THESE WORDS "MEN (PAUSE) MEN I JUST RECEIVED A MESSAGE FROM COMMANDER TASK FORCE 77.5 THAT THE CORAL SEA, HANCOCK AND RANGER WILL RENDEZVOUS IN A DESIGNATED AREA IN THE SOUTH CHINA SEA AND MADE RETALIATORY AIR STRIKES AGAINST THE NORTH VIETNAMESE". THE VIETCONG KILLED AMERICANS ON FEBRUARY 6, 1965 THE DAY BEFORE AND PRESIDENT JOHNSON GOT THE WORD WHICH WAS SENT TO ALL CARRIERS IN THE 7TH FLEET TO TAKE ACTION AND THE CORAL SEA LEAD THE WAY WITH REAR ADMIRAL EDWARD C. OUTLAW WHO WAS THE VERY FIRST AIR WING COMMANDER ONBOARD THE CORAL SEA WHEN IT WAS COMMISSIONED SO WHO ELSE BETTER TO LEAD US TO WAR THEN HIM AND HE TOLD US "TO STAY LOOSE" WHEN I FOUND OUT THAT OUR ADMIRAL WAS FROM GREENVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA I ASKED MY FATHER DID HE KNOW HIS FAMILY SINCE MY FATHER AND MOTHER BOTH ARE FROM THERE ALSO AND HE KNEW EXACTLY WHERE THEY LIVED SINCE AT THE TIME IT WAS A SMALL PLACE WHERE EVERYBODY KNEW EVERYONE WORKING IN THE TOBACCO FIELDS.

WELL ENOUGH WITH THE HISTORY LESSON BUT NOW THAT I'M 65 YEARS OLD AND LOOKING BACK TO TIMES I SPENT DURING MY NAVAL CAREER WHICH WASN'T A TYPICAL CAREER WHERE I SPENT 23 STRAIGHT YEARS IN THE NAVY SINCE I GOT OUT OF THE NAVY TWICE BEING THE FOOL THAT I WAS AT THE TIME AT THAT YOUNG AGE WHERE EVENTS AND PEOPLE GET UNDER YOUR SKIN BUT I REALIZED THAT I LOVED THE NAVY LIFE AND NEEDED TO RETURN MY THIRD TIME TO FINISH WHAT I STARTED BACK WHEN I WAS YOUNG, DUMB AND FULL OF YOU KNOW WHAT GOING OVERSEAS TO HAVE A WOMAN IN EVERY PORT. SO AFTER 11 CRUISES AND ONE SHORE DUTY I RETIRED SEPTEMB...

Rank/Rate: AE-3

Division/Squadron: IM-3

Years Aboard: 1978-82

Location: Spokane, Wa USA

Comments: Hello fellow shipmates

Rank/Rate: AIRMEN

Division/Squadron: V-1

Years Aboard: 1965-1968

Location: DEPERE, WISCONSIN USA

Comments: HI TO ALL PAST CREW OF THE CORAL SEA

Rank/Rate: ht3

Division/Squadron: r

Years Aboard: 1979-1982

Location: dorena, oregon USA

Comments: looking for old friends

Rank/Rate: ht3

Division/Squadron: r

Years Aboard: 1979-1982

Location: dorena, oregon USA

Comments: looking for old friends

Nick Name/Call Sign: Tucker

Rank/Rate: Airman

Division/Squadron: Air Wing 15 Staff

Years Aboard: 1963-1965

Location: Westlake, Ohio USA

Comments: Had a great Westpac Cruise and still consider my time aboard to be one of the most influential experiences of my life. I always wondered what became of Henry Brown from San Antonio, Texas and Scott Cuthbert from Castro Valley, California. I would like to reconnect if possible. We lost our Air Wing Commander Peter Mongilardi and Ed Dickson to enemy fire while I was with the staff. They are still in my prayers.

Rank/Rate: cssn

Division/Squadron: S-2C

Years Aboard: Nov '51 to Mar - '53

Location: Brooklyn, New York USA

Comments: May I make a strong suggestion to all my shipmates. Please read this association's history. It's good reading and will give you an insight as to how your assn came about to be. It wasn't easy. Most of our original plankowners have fallen in for their last muster and now waiting for us to catch up. I am sure you will be as proud of this assn, as you are of our ship. She has had many loving nicknames heaped upon her with love of course. How about pigiron s.o.b., Sal Francisco's own, beast of the east, galloping ghost of the Mediterranian coast, best of the west, ageless warrior, older and bolder and lest we forget older bolder and better. The one that sticks out in my mind is Christmas day in Suda Bay and a cool YUule in Istanbul as well as the Coral Maru. I don't like the last one too much as it implies she was a Japanese ship. For us who saild on her, she was only a dam good American fighting ship and will remain in our memories as such untile the day we fall in for final muster.

For you later years ex crewmen, she was, is and will always be known as a ship and not a dammed "boat". Abot is one that is used to catch fish. A ship is a fighting man o' war. Ony "boots" keep referring to her as a boat. So if you want to be known as a boot for the rest of your life, keep calling her a boat.

May God Bless each and evry sailor who ever sailed on this great ship,

Sal Avellino, Secretary Emeritus, USS Coral Sea CVA 43 Assn.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Sauce

Rank/Rate: AN/E-3

Division/Squadron: V-4 Div Air Dept

Years Aboard: 1968-1972

Location: Deland, Florida U.S.A.

Comments: I want to wish a "Happy Veterans Day" & "Welcome Home" to all who served and who are serving all around the world. I hope to see more posts/entries from my Grape Buddies. Sauce

Nick Name/Call Sign: West

Rank/Rate: ams3

Division/Squadron: vf151

Years Aboard: 1967-1969

Location: Minster, Ohio USA

Comments: lots of good memories

Nick Name/Call Sign: DP1

Rank/Rate: DPC/RET

Division/Squadron: S-7 ADP

Years Aboard: 1988-1990

Location: Yorktown, VA USA

Comments: I proudly served as ADP LPO. I was able for the first time experience leadership and the up and down that come with it. I was very luck to have some of the best Data Processors afloat, and even when they were down, the never gave up. We had some exceptions, but overall those guys were the best. I owe any advancement I made to them. I can only hope that I gave them a fraction of the able assistance they lent me.

"DPSN Doty AKA Texas" "DP3 Thrash" "DP3 Kippler" "DPSN Cline" "DPSN Brake" "DPCS Couture" "Supply Master Chief" "DP2 Fred Loveless" "DP3 Jones" "SK1 Hitt" “DP1 Verellen” and many more in CV-43's ADP and Supply Department. You guys were the best.

After transferring to the USS Guadalcanal, I one day saw the Coral Sea being towed to her final resting place. And I have no shame is saying that I stood there and cried.
USS Coral Sea will forever be my “boat” with pride.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Mak-eye

Rank/Rate: MM-3

Division/Squadron: A-1 hydraulics

Years Aboard: 1965-1968

Location: Rice Lake, WI USA

Comments: Just checking in still looking for my old shipmates from A-1 Dision. Even though I had a great career as Special Agent with the government I often wonder what life would have been like if I would have accepted the offer to extend for 5 months to sew on my E-5 Crow and finsh my fourth Viet Nam cruise. Probably would have ended up a "liffer." Sweepers,Sweepers, man your brooms, Now hear this, The smoking lamp is out throughout the ship, Carry on lads, hope that brought back some good memories.

Nick Name/Call Sign: rat

Rank/Rate: E-6/AMS-1

Division/Squadron: VA-55

Years Aboard: 1984-1987

Location: virginia beach, va USA

Comments: i am looking for a photo that shows an aerial shot of the carrier when it had a straight deck and the deck was covered in piston engine aircraft
thanks
rat

Nick Name/Call Sign: POILES,MARSHALL

Rank/Rate: AO3

Division/Squadron: GM-DIV

Years Aboard: 1964,1965

Location: OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY USA

Comments: MY NAME IS ANTHONY POILES I AM THE SON OF MARSHALL POILES AND I AM HAVING TROUBLE GETTING HIM ON THE ROSTER ANY HELPFULL HINTS.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Big Joe

Rank/Rate: E5

Division/Squadron: Guided Missle Division

Years Aboard: 1971-1975

Location: Watsonville, CA USA

Comments: Looking for other members of the Guided Missle shop during 1971-1975

Rank/Rate: BT2

Division/Squadron: B Div (4 Charlie Fireroom

Years Aboard: 67-70

Location: Hales Corners, WI USA

Comments: Hi Bob Flagel,
I remember going on liberty with you and Russel quite often, also Buhler and Dave Darling.
Send me an email.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Flash

Rank/Rate: BT2

Division/Squadron: B

Years Aboard: 1966-1970

Location: Denver, Colorado USA

Comments: Looking to locate BT-3 Jim Russell. We served together from 67 to my seperation in 1970. Last I knew he was on a Cruser in the Med.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Winkle

Rank/Rate: BTFN

Division/Squadron: B-division, 2C fire-room

Years Aboard: 1974-1975

Location: Festus, Missouri USA

Comments: Just left the reunion....anyone who did not attend missed out on a really great time! Make sure you join us in 2012 in San Antonio for the reunion there.

Nick Name/Call Sign: AKA: Robin Scott Jones

Rank/Rate: Disbursing/Retail Sales/Wardroom Officer

Division/Squadron: Supply Department

Years Aboard: 1977-1979

Location: Philadelphia, PA USA

Comments: I was discharged from the Navy in 1987 while attending Rabbinical School. I changed my name from "Robin Scott Jones" to "Reuben Israel Abraham" in 1987. I was ordained in 1992. I was recommissioned as a Navy Chaplain in 1997. I serve as Group Chaplain for Marine Aircraft Group 49 and Squadron Chaplain for Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Knobby

Rank/Rate: PN1

Division/Squadron: X Div Personnel Office

Years Aboard: 1955 - 1957

Location: Crescent, Pa USA

Comments: Loved the ship. Made 2 Med cruises. Great friends. Did transfer orders for many of the almost 1,000 men that departed the ship before it left Norfolk for Bremerton. I was just about the last man to leave the ship after all transfers completed. God Bless all who served aboard that GREAT SHIP. Would love to hear from anybody that knew me.

Rank/Rate: BT 2

Division/Squadron: B Division

Years Aboard: 1953-1955

Location: Empire, AL USA

Comments: Would love to hear from fellow ship mates. Fire Room 3A
Departed The Coral Sea in 1955 at Naples Italy for discharge.

Nick Name/Call Sign: bondo

Rank/Rate: BT!

Division/Squadron: B-1/B-5

Years Aboard: 84-87

Location: dandridge, tn USA

Comments: was a old ship but looked good cant say too much for thr khaki clan in b-1 division. with them you never turn your back.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Doctor Fireroom

Rank/Rate: BT-4

Division/Squadron: B Division

Years Aboard: 1960-1964

Location: Morro Bay, California USA

Comments: Hey fellow snipes, I'm still alive as you can tell. Sure like to hear from you. Let me know where you are and I will try to get in touch.

Nick Name/Call Sign: na

Rank/Rate: SN

Division/Squadron: 4th division

Years Aboard: 1952 - 1953

Location: Maryville, Tn USA

Comments: Looking to get in touch with William "Bill" Horn.

Rank/Rate: YNSN

Division/Squadron: 1st Division, Deck Dept

Years Aboard: 79 - 82

Location: Cumberland, Maryland USA

Comments: I served as the yeoman for first division during my time there. I would like to know if anyone knows what became of bmc carlos carrera. Also maybe ltcmdr bell, he was the first lt for deck dept.

Rank/Rate: ADAN

Division/Squadron: VF-83

Years Aboard: 1953

Location: Belton, Mo USA

Comments: The 1953 med. cruise had a lot of excitement as anyone working on the
flight deck witnessed.Before she had the angle deck things got pretty exciting at times.see mishaps 1953. Just wondering if there's still around. Plane Captain F9F5 # 311.

Rank/Rate: EN3

Division/Squadron: "A" gang

Years Aboard: 1977-1981

Location: , CA USA

Comments: My good friend Bill "Billy Boot" Morrill passed away yesterday. Billy and I caught up a few years back, and he has been a true friend to myself and my family since. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

Rank/Rate: E3

Division/Squadron: R

Years Aboard: 1981-1982

Location: , USA

Comments: Ha! Good ol' CV43...one the Navy's best rust buckets! I was in R division ("snipes") with a bunch of great guys and a few dirt bags...best years of my life! Does anyone Remember HT2 Green who was black...but hair was orange? How about FN3 "Too Sweet" and his gigantic boom box!!

Rank/Rate: E3

Division/Squadron: E

Years Aboard: 1981-1982

Location: , USA

Comments: Ha! Gold ol' CV43...one the Navy's best rust buckets! I was in R division "snipes" with a bunch of great guyes and a few dirt bags...best years of my life!

Rank/Rate: mm1

Division/Squadron: A division o2n2

Years Aboard: 1972-1975

Location: Leominster, Ma USA

Comments: Served with a lot of good guys Boyer, Banels, Foster,Addison
If I could go back to do it again I would not hesitate

Nick Name/Call Sign: Makeye

Rank/Rate: E-4 MM

Division/Squadron: A-1

Years Aboard: 1965-1968

Location: Rice lake, WI USA

Comments: Two comments to Boulten I remember you do you remember an MM-3 named Lower?
Went to see the travelling wall last week when it was here in Northern WI. Donald Maki, no relation, has his name on it. I was coming out of the #1 elevator space when the rocket went off saw most of the burned guys right after it happened.

Rank/Rate: AN

Division/Squadron: V-2 V-4

Years Aboard: 1969----1972

Location: crestwood, IL USA

Comments: Any one that remembers me and would like to get in contact with me I would like to hear from u, hope all my fellow ship mates are are doing well!

Rank/Rate: mm3

Division/Squadron: B Div

Years Aboard: 1964-1968

Location: Grantville, Kansas USA

Comments: still looking for the crew that was in the E-vaps and B-Div that knew me. charles Latham,clayton Ramsey, from Georgia,Clayton Wismer,Glould Illnois,Robert Clark New Mexico,Jim Reynold,Robert Carmichail, Mo, and many other guys.please E-mail if you remember or you know any of them.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Steve

Rank/Rate: PH-3

Division/Squadron: OP-1

Years Aboard: 1965-1968

Location: Saint Cloud, Florida USA

Comments: I was in V-1 Division as a 'Blue' shirt in 1965, then became
the 'PLAT' Operator on the 0-7 level in 1966-1968 as a PH-3.
Retired teacher/counselor from the Ceres, California public schools,
living the retired/good life in Florida, say 'hey' to all the
photo-mates.

Rank/Rate: BT3

Division/Squadron: B1 / Engineering

Years Aboard: 1986-1988

Location: , Michigan USA

Comments: I would like to hear from some of buddies that was aboard when I was.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Oscar

Rank/Rate: BTFN

Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom

Years Aboard: 1974-77

Location: Chicago, Illinois USA

Comments: Very sad news, Al Ross (Wacky Racer) BT 4Group 73-77 passed away today from an unbelievably strong cancer. Let us thank God for letting us get to know him. Blessiings and condolences to his family , Karen, wife , Crystal daughter, and son Jay. I am proud to say I steamed with him, both on Coral Sea and on land too.He was a great Man

Rank/Rate: AG2

Division/Squadron: OA

Years Aboard: 1961-1963

Location: Salvisa, Ky. USA

Comments: Any old weather men out there? Hope to see you in St. Louis

Rank/Rate: HT2

Division/Squadron: Ships Company

Years Aboard: 1980-1984

Location: Hastings, MN USA

Comments: Reported aboard after Enginering Apprenticeship School after boot camp in 1980. Sailed for six months and went to Hull Maintenance Technician Training School in San Diego and then Treasure Island for the NBC phase.

Made all the ships deployments and World Cruise prior to 19854

Nick Name/Call Sign: Andy

Rank/Rate: ADJ 4

Division/Squadron: VA-94

Years Aboard: 1971/2/3

Location: Jacksboro, Tennessee USA

Comments: Just looking in to see what is available on our activities back then.

Nick Name/Call Sign: POSTMAN

Rank/Rate: PCSN

Division/Squadron: I THINK IT WAS X DIV

Years Aboard: 74/77

Location: CARLSBAD, NM USA

Comments: ENJOY ALL THE GOOD TIMES ON SHIP & LIBERTY. ME & MY BROTHER DAVID WERE ON THE SAME TIME. HE WAS IN THE PRINT SHOP , I WAS IN THE POST OFFICE. IF YOU REMERBER US WRITE ON THE DECK LOG.

Nick Name/Call Sign: BEANER

Rank/Rate: ASE2/E5

Division/Squadron: IM4/GSE SHOP/DCPO

Years Aboard: 84/87

Location: Houston, Tx USA

Comments: Well,finally got a chance to get back in here and cant help but to fondly remembr the slight taste of jetfuel in the bugjuice,Sure Hopr that everyone keeps this tribute dignified and honorable just the way its been all these years,

Nick Name/Call Sign: trickmj

Rank/Rate: AE-1

Division/Squadron: VF-111

Years Aboard: 1975

Location: The Colony, Texas USA

Comments: Glad to see so many shipmates still around.

Nick Name/Call Sign: GABBY

Rank/Rate: A E-3

Division/Squadron: H C-1 DET.4

Years Aboard: 1977-78

Location: STOCKBRIDGE, GA. USA

Comments: hey shipmates-looking forward to hearing from any from 77-78 westpac !!!

Nick Name/Call Sign: Joe

Rank/Rate: BT-3

Division/Squadron: MP-B

Years Aboard: 74-78

Location: Interlachen, Fl USA

Comments: Maru has nothing to do with Prisoner ships.Look it up. Long live the Coral Maru

Rank/Rate: Able Seaman

Division/Squadron: Air Dept

Years Aboard: Ex Aussie carrier

Location: , USA

Comments: Tailhook Associations 'HOOK' mag states that 'Maru' is an old traditional Japanese term given to merchant ships. Nothing at all to do with Prisoners of war etc.

Nick Name/Call Sign: "Doc"/Sheriff"

Rank/Rate: MACS/MACM (AC)

Division/Squadron: X-2 (XMAA)

Years Aboard: 193-1976 and 1980-1983

Location: Bremerton, WA USA

Comments: For all aboard in May 75: Mayaguez Recovery. Next reunion for USN/USMC/USAF participants (including CSea, Wilson (DDG) and Holt FFG/DE), Branson Mo, May 2012. For info go to "Koh Tang Beach Club" on web pages.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Hap

Rank/Rate: PN3

Division/Squadron: VAH2 & X Div

Years Aboard: 60-61-62

Location: Woodville, Wi. USA

Comments: Greetings to all who proudly served on the Coral "Maru". I just read the post by Jeff Million saying that the word "Maru" was not a fitting legacy for our ship. I did a little research on the word and found that the real meaning of the word is obscure. It is more than likely the merging of two words, Maru and Maro which was a term of endearment. Therefore, in my opinion, Maru is an acceptable term to use for our ship. Maru does not mean "prison ship" or relate in anyway to the death of POW's.

Would enjoy hearing from any of my shipmates or VAH2 squadron mates. Take Care!
Hap Litzell

Rank/Rate: ETN3

Division/Squadron: OE

Years Aboard: 1973-1974

Location: Madison, IN USA

Comments: Miss the "Coral Maru"

Rank/Rate: BM3

Division/Squadron: 2ND

Years Aboard: 1974-1978

Location: DREXEL HILL, PA USA

Comments: Hey, shipmates. SO cool to read the postings of all who served on her all of the years of her long life. Can tell it's in all of our blood. Family and friends could never understand...But let's not refer to her a s the Coral Maru, please. Maru's were Japanese merchant ships used in WWII to transport prisoners and POW's to their homeland and occupied countries, many of whom were tortured and killed (look it up!)In fact, there was a Coral Maru that took 800 POW's from Manila to Japan in October 1943. So let's show respect and stop this nonsense. She deserves a better legacy.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Cheezer

Rank/Rate: ABE2

Division/Squadron: V2-Gear rat

Years Aboard: 1983-86

Location: Tioga, North Dekota USA

Comments: Hey shipmates, just a shout out to all you cv43vets, Im alive and doing fine. e-mail me if you knew me.

Rank/Rate: YN3

Division/Squadron: O3

Years Aboard: 1949-1952

Location: Stanton, Kentucky USA

Comments: Just another "Old Navy" sailor.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Charley

Rank/Rate: YN2

Division/Squadron: X

Years Aboard: 1962-1964

Location: Camino, Ca USA

Comments: I was MAA Yeoman on the 63 cruise to Austraila - took a guy to Mast after we left Pearl. He was given 10 days brig time but on the way to his compartment to get his clothes he punched the MAA, made a break and was never seen again. Many GQ sessions so the ship could be searched - nothing. Scuttlebut is that his buddies hide him out and he's alive and well in Sydney. Name was Puckett, part of the air group aboard.

Rank/Rate: AO2

Division/Squadron: VA 216

Years Aboard: 1968-1969

Location: Columbia, SC USA

Comments: Looking for any Black Diamond crew that was on the 68-69 cruise or any other ships company that can remember the day Norman Ridley got killed in Jan. 1969?

Nick Name/Call Sign: Scotty

Rank/Rate: AQi then

Division/Squadron: VA-86

Years Aboard: 1969

Location: Shelbyville, TN USA

Comments: The '69-'70 cruise aboard Coral Sea was my second WESPAC cruise in two years. Not bad for an East Coast sailor. We had a great crew, but lost some good men on that cruise.

Rank/Rate: LTJG

Division/Squadron: 3rd, 2nd

Years Aboard: 1960=62

Location: Leesburg, VA USA

Comments: I started working for CDR Haynie in OPS office, then transferred to Gunnery where I was 3rd Div officer and later 2nd Div officer. I was under OOD and was on watch during many incidents including loss of #3 elevator (I had word passed "#3 Elevator..Departing" along with 4 bells), loss of A3D rolling overboard during re-spot,crash of A4D in the gear, loss of A4D skidding down the angle deck and causing yellow shirts to run into prop parked fwd and killing 2 redshirts in port catwalk, loss of BM2 and BMSN over the side of #5 refueling station when shackle parted and saddle whip swept them overboard. and many others. I worked for CAPT Gray ( fighter squadron commander VF6 at Battle of Midway), CAPT Lynch and CAPT Weisner.
Anybody know what happened to CWO/LT Jim Manning of FOX Div, NM2 Aubrey New of 3rd Div?

I was also Country Music Officer since I came to Coral Sea from the Grand Old Opry working for Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.

I have a 1963 cruise book in VG condition for sale (extra copy I bought). This listing has latest email. Old listing has bad email. O have not been able to change old listing.

Rank/Rate: B-3

Division/Squadron: B-2

Years Aboard: 1988-1990

Location: Iron City, Tn USA

Comments: Great ship. Had good memories.

Rank/Rate: CMSGT ret

Division/Squadron: CAG-8 / VF83

Years Aboard: 1953

Location: Belton, MO. USA

Comments: Just courious if any one for this cruise was on this site. Jim

Nick Name/Call Sign: turk

Rank/Rate: AD-3

Division/Squadron: VFA-131

Years Aboard: 86-87

Location: dacula, Ga USA

Comments: oUR CREW HAD TO CHANGE OUT A DROP TANK. Chief swore it was empty. We dropped it alright.fuel everywhere.my buddy Benjamin(last name or Benwhammy) was so ticked he walked into maint. reeking of jp5 and smoking a cig. you shoulda seen them hit the deck. lol.

Nick Name/Call Sign: TINY

Rank/Rate: ABE-3

Division/Squadron: V-2 CAT-1

Years Aboard: JAN 15 1965-JUN 14 1968

Location: WATERLOO, IOWA USA

Comments: I RECALL WEIGHT BOARD OPPERATOR,CENTER DECK OPPERATOR,BLAST DEFLECTOR OPPERATOR,DECK EDGE OPPEROR,BOW MAN,2 holdbacks,2 HOOKUPS

Rank/Rate: MS 3

Division/Squadron: S-5

Years Aboard: 84-88

Location: Covington, ky USA

Comments: Looking for friends from the past.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Joe

Rank/Rate: MS3

Division/Squadron: SS05

Years Aboard: 1979-1982

Location: Delanco, NJ USA

Comments: Came onboard during the 'Yards in Bremmerton, WA. '79. Was in S2 (hot racks!) as a MS on the A. P. L. & in the Enlisted Mess. @ A certain point I was transferred to S5 (aka 'Zip's" Mess)for wardroom training & never returned to S2.
In any event, while in S2; the "Old Salts" (those in the know) especially Moose; made me feel welcome & honorable amongst the Short Timers even though I was merely a relatively unknown bootcamp!

Rank/Rate: SK

Division/Squadron: S-8

Years Aboard: 1982-1986

Location: Albuquerque, NM USA

Comments: Where's all my Supply buddies? Lots of great times and friends. From a World Cruise, Med-Cruises, tanker collisions, Libya 86, Dry Dock in Portsmith, vertreps, loading and unloading COD's. Looking for ole shipmates. Thanks
facebook.com/robpadilla03

Nick Name/Call Sign: Oscar

Rank/Rate: BTFN

Division/Squadron: B-Div 4Able Fireroom

Years Aboard: 1974-77

Location: , USA

Comments: Comments: Had an awesome time at the 1st Grand Rapids Spring Fling, hosted by Gary and Diane Maddox. [B/Z Maddox's] A good time was had by all ,The Gerald Ford museum was great to check out on friday, and has the ladder from the final evacuation from Saigon,The bell and the ships wheelfrom the SS Mayaguez (which we were part of )along with a million other things from my generation, WOW. And then on sat, we traveled to Muskegon and visited the WWII sub, USS Silversides bigtime hospitality room chatter,meeting new Brothers you served at the same time with , but different divisions is one of the highlights of my evenings, checking out cruisebooks, telling sea stories, and a whole bunch of "no shitters". Good times ,Hoping to see more of you guys next year or in October, St. Louis...

Rank/Rate:

Division/Squadron:

Years Aboard:

Location: Dover, PA USA

Comments: More Information: My father-in-law was on the Coral Sea 65-68, Petty Office 2nd Class, Radio Operator RM2. Unfortunately, he passed April 11th, but still would like to talk to anyone who knew him. Thanks, Don

Original Post: First, from one vet to all the others, thanks to everyone who has or is currently serving their country. Second, need some help. Looking for anyone who served with my father-in-law: John Carey, during Vietnam, not sure of years though, I believe he was a radio operator. Email me or call daytime 717-932-7210, nights 717-599-1421.

Rank/Rate: BT2

Division/Squadron: B Div (4 Charlie Fireroom)

Years Aboard: 1967-1970

Location: Hales Corners, WI USA

Comments: This post is to bring back memories for all you BT's out there. BLOW TUBES!!!!
How I hated that job when I was a boot. All the more reason to make rate so you didn't have to do the worst jobs down there. It seemed hard then, as I look back, it wasn't that bad. Olongopo, Yokosuka, Hong Kong, Sasebo, Singapore, Last stop Sydney in 1970. YAY!
Anybody out there from my time? Cline, Nichols, Fletcher, Flagel, Buehler, Darling, Romero, Torres, Reynolds, Brucker, Pippin, Stan??, Dumlao(Ho Chi), Dove, Dean,?????? I don't have the cruise books in front of me, so I'm forgetting some. Put something on here if you're still around.
Hawkeye

Rank/Rate: AD3

Division/Squadron: VFA-132

Years Aboard: 85-86

Location: Chippewa Falls, WI USA

Comments: Looking for others.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Bob

Rank/Rate: PR-2

Division/Squadron: VAW-111-DET-4

Years Aboard: 71-72

Location: Exchange, W.Va. USA

Comments: Does anyone recall the young sailor jumping off the flight deck as the ship was getting under way from Subic Bay after our first inport period of the cruise. As I recall he said he didn't want to go to sea any more. I think he got to go again anyhow but this time with a Marine escort. In March of 72 my squadron was left behind at Cubi Pt. to make room for more attack planes,(what a bummer!!). It was hard duty but someone had to keep Olongapo and Subic City safe. On with my story. While we were on the pier with our cruise boxes and other gear two sailors dressed in dungeree uniforms came running onto the pier where the Coral Sea had been tied up. They were a first class P.O. and a third class. They never slowed down when they came to the edge of the peir--- just dived in and made a swim for the ship like they knew they knew they could catch it and climb aboard. A motor boat picked them up and they were taken to the flight line for a short Helo ride. I don't know the final outcome of either event but it goes to show that life in the Navy wasn't always dull.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Sowers

Rank/Rate: ETN3

Division/Squadron: OE

Years Aboard: 1977-1978

Location: Gig Harbor, Wa. USA

Comments: I enjoyed my tour on the Coral Sea. I worked with a great group of men and learned a lot. I hope they are all well.
God Bless!

Rank/Rate:

Division/Squadron:

Years Aboard:

Location: Dover, PA USA

Comments: First, from one vet to all the others, thanks to everyone who has or is currently serving their country. Second, need some help. Looking for anyone who served with my father-in-law: John Carey, during Vietnam, not sure of years though, I believe he was a radio operator. Email me or call daytime 717-932-7210, nights 717-599-1421.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Jim Waldron

Rank/Rate: Commander

Division/Squadron: Helicopter Utility Squadron Two

Years Aboard: Summer of 1953

Location: Henrico, VA USA

Comments: I served aboard the Coral Sea (4/18/52 to 10/12/52) as one of two helicopter pilots.
I am developing a history of that Med Cruise and need in-port dates. Can anyone help me?

Nick Name/Call Sign: Canuck

Rank/Rate: Cadet

Division/Squadron: USS Walton Navy Cadet Corps

Years Aboard: Summer 1966

Location: Calgary, Alberta Canada

Comments: I will always remember my 2 week dock side cruise. As a young impressionable teenager, it was a very big part in my growing up. Thank you Coral Sea for the experience of a life time.

Rank/Rate: IC3

Division/Squadron: E

Years Aboard: 86-89

Location: Nashville, TN USA

Comments: Checking in for another year

Rank/Rate:

Division/Squadron:

Years Aboard:

Location: , USA

Comments: Hi, I am studying naval history and this is a great website. Thank you for creating this wonderful site!

Nick Name/Call Sign: Eli

Rank/Rate: EM2

Division/Squadron: E-Div Pwr. Shop

Years Aboard: 68-71

Location: Austin, Minnesota USA

Comments: Still looking for shipmates. Anyone know Eric Nelson, Mike Saunders, Ken Dufuor or John Marcelle. Thanks Eli

Nick Name/Call Sign: Makeye

Rank/Rate: E-4

Division/Squadron: A-1

Years Aboard: 1965 -1968

Location: Rice Lake, WI USA

Comments: Just a hello update. Heard form one former shipmate who worked in the division office but thats it. Still would like to hear form the old A-1 gang. Did see Marshall Gray on the ships roster wonder if he is still in Chicago. My e-mail is mrogermaki@hotmail.com.

Rank/Rate: AK3

Division/Squadron: S-6

Years Aboard: 1970-1971

Location: Lansing, Michigan USA

Comments: I am sorry I didn't make the cruise in 71. I only got onboard during refit and went on sea trials. I was discharged prior to shipping out. Bummer, I understand it was a great cruise.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Ed

Rank/Rate: MM-3

Division/Squadron: A Division-Refrigeration

Years Aboard: 1951-1954

Location: Maylene, Alabama USA

Comments: Saw my shipmate Richard Zimmerman here, would love to connect with him. My email is keyes at centurytel dot net. Can anyone help?

Nick Name/Call Sign: Oscar

Rank/Rate: BTFN

Division/Squadron: B-Div 4Able Fireroom

Years Aboard: 1974-77

Location: Chicago, Ill USA

Comments: Looking for any info/pictures of former F-4B Pilot Radarman LTJG, James B. Mills. VF21 Squadron Shot down over North Viet Nam Sept.21st, 1966. Any info will help.Thank you.

Rank/Rate:

Division/Squadron:

Years Aboard:

Location: Edgerton, KS USA

Comments: I am trying to locate any photos of my Cousin LT Norman P. Westwood Jr.who was killed on May 17 1970 while aboard the Coral Sea. Perhaps some has or can make copies from a cruise book.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Dave

Rank/Rate: E3/JO

Division/Squadron: PAO

Years Aboard: 1971-1972

Location: Irving, TX USA

Comments: Does anyone remember a hanger bay fire, a communications room fire, an engine room fire or a plane crashing into the round down during the shake down cruise to San Diego and online in the Gulf of Tonkin?

If you have any recall of any of these incidents, I would appreciated a short letter stating what you recall to help with my VA claim. Email me at rileywrites@yahoo.com

Thanks
RIley

Nick Name/Call Sign: Shrub

Rank/Rate: AO3

Division/Squadron: G3

Years Aboard: 1984-1988

Location: Appling, Ga USA

Comments: Would love to hear from some old shipmates!

Nick Name/Call Sign: Roy

Rank/Rate: SFP-2

Division/Squadron: R

Years Aboard: 1963-1966

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota USA

Comments: Thanks for the web sieght and roster. Roy

Nick Name/Call Sign: Ball Cap in the Shower Dude

Rank/Rate: ABHAN

Division/Squadron: V-1

Years Aboard: 1989-1990

Location: Euclid, Ohio USA

Comments: In the words of Captin L.E. Allen Jr., 'CV-43 was a crack ship.' I so enjoyed coming of age with all of my mates on this once small vessel. And when she was hauling butt - she sure did rattle. But she was also very battle ready thanks to the likes of you guys! You guys were really the best. Our last Med Cruise was so special. You don't know what you've missed til its gone.

Rank/Rate: ADJ 2 Resque Air Crew Member

Division/Squadron: HC1 DET 43

Years Aboard: 1967-1968

Location: TEHACHAPI, CALIF USA

Comments: Guys I am still here. Heard from LT Pyle. If there are any angel crewmembers out there give me a call. God Speed.

Rank/Rate: YN3

Division/Squadron: FOX

Years Aboard: 1951-55

Location: camden, maine 04843 USA

Comments: When friends ask if I have been on a cruise. I say, yes indeed I have and it lasted for 3 1/2 years. That does spark their curiousity. I had a great time and greetings and best wishes for all.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Bob

Rank/Rate: PR-2

Division/Squadron: VAW-111

Years Aboard: 71-72

Location: Exchange, W. VA. USA

Comments: Hello to all who ever sailed on the CORAL SEA. I love reading all about the CORAL SEA and her crew from start (1947) to finish (1990). Keep writing those sea stories. I can't get enough of them.

Nick Name/Call Sign: guy

Rank/Rate: ABH3/E-4

Division/Squadron: V-3

Years Aboard: 1987-1990

Location: New Orleans, La USA

Comments: My first command, I made many good friends and able to stay in touch with one. Seen Kings entry, nice to see you are alive and well. Any of my old shipmates out there feel free to contact me.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Oscar

Rank/Rate: BTFN

Division/Squadron: B-Div. 4Able Fireroom

Years Aboard: 1974-77

Location: Chicago, Illinois USA

Comments: Just booked our room in Grand Rapids for Spring Fling. Hoping to see more SNIPES . See YOU there.

Rank/Rate: E-4/ET

Division/Squadron: Electronic Division

Years Aboard: 1981-1984

Location: Alameda, California USA

Comments: Served aboard USS Coral Sea 39 months.During that time we did 2 west-pac
cruises and then 1 world cruise to change homeport.Good experience for me,learned alot and saw alot.Wish we would have spent more time in foreign ports though.

Rank/Rate: AMH-2

Division/Squadron: VA-95 LINE

Years Aboard: 1974 1976

Location: Bandera, TexAS USA

Comments: Remember the crossing took me 12 years to finally do it.

Rank/Rate: FA

Division/Squadron: B-DIVISION

Years Aboard: 1961-1963

Location: Oregon City, Oregon USA

Comments: This was my first assignment out of basis training (San Diego, 1961, Co 465). We made the Australia Cruise in 1963. Have some good memories of way back then.

The Navy had a program back then...request duty with your brother and get it...well I did and I got it...lol. My brother is now 80 and still drawing his retirement...24 years worth. His first assignment after basic was the "Mighty Mo"!

Nick Name/Call Sign: the mug

Rank/Rate: SN

Division/Squadron: 2nd / 3rd. div.

Years Aboard: 74--77

Location: Reno, NV. USA

Comments: Wishing i had stayed in. Even after all these years!!!!!

Rank/Rate: ABF3

Division/Squadron: V-4 Division

Years Aboard: 1970-1974

Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia USA

Comments: The crew on the USS Coral Sea CVA 43 were the best I sailed with during my 21 year career.

Nick Name/Call Sign: moon

Rank/Rate: ams-1

Division/Squadron: im2

Years Aboard: 1989-1990

Location: coeburn, virginia USA

Comments: just browsing thru and looking around. great site.was attached to im2 div. on the last cruise. made dets on board 1976,1977,1979 while flying ea-3b & ta-3b- with vq-1. a lot of hard long days by all to make it all work. dont regrett a minute of the time spent on board.still have a few pod copies,liberty card and first class mess membership card.

Nick Name/Call Sign: MIKE

Rank/Rate: HT-2

Division/Squadron: R-DIV. D C SHOP

Years Aboard: APR.80-AUG-81

Location: DIXON,, CALIFORNIA USA

Comments: I REPORTED ABOARD 26 APR.FROM USS NIMITZ IN A SWAP. AFTER RETURNING TO THE STATES & YARD PERIOD. DURING WORK-UPS,I WAS A MEMBER OF THE FLYING SQUAD,DC TRAINING TEAM W/HT-2 JACOBS & SHIP'S BOSWIN FRANKLININ IN-PORT FIRE PARTY & SECTION LEADER W/ HTC MARTINEZ

Nick Name/Call Sign: MIKE

Rank/Rate: HT-2

Division/Squadron: R-DIV. D C SHOP

Years Aboard: APR.80-AUG-81

Location: DIXON,, CALIFORNIA USA

Comments: I REPORTED ABOARD 26 APR.FROM USS NIMITZ IN A SWAP. AFTER RETURNING TO THE STATES & YARD PERIOD. DURING WORK-UPS,I WAS A MEMBER OF THE FLYING SQUAD,DC TRAINING TEAM W/HT-2 JACOBS & SHIP'S BOSWIN FRANKLININ IN-PORT FIRE PARTY & SECTION LEADER W/ HTC MARTINEZ

Nick Name/Call Sign: Wedge/Spyder

Rank/Rate: MM3

Division/Squadron: M-Division

Years Aboard: 1968/1972

Location: Lincoln Park, Michigan USA

Comments: Just dropped in to see if any of us are still kicking would love to hear from old shipmates I was in #2 Engineroom for those 4 years,tried to get on one of those river boats that never happened.
Take care and Pleasant Seas

Nick Name/Call Sign: sparky

Rank/Rate: RM3

Division/Squadron: Communications

Years Aboard: 1983-1988

Location: Etowah, TN USA

Comments: I hope everyone is having a great year, the older I get the faster time goes, I cant believe its been so many years since I was onboard the USS Coral Sea. I really miss the days and years I spent on this ship, it really was a great time in my life.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Tommy

Rank/Rate: Airman E3, SN

Division/Squadron: S1, S2, S4, S5

Years Aboard: 1968, 69, 70

Location: , Arkansas USA

Comments: Very interesting reading! Really enjoy the site.
Would love to hear from anyone I served with.

Rank/Rate: E-3 Airman

Division/Squadron: V-2 V-4

Years Aboard: 1969 1972

Location: Metamora, Illinois USA

Comments: Hi to all my fellow ship mates , Im hope that you are having a good year, Just to let let you know If you are a fan of face book the coral sea has ther own group so by all means go ahead and sign in!

Rank/Rate: AE3

Division/Squadron: v-6

Years Aboard: 1960-1962

Location: , USA

Comments: looking for old friends.

Rank/Rate: EM-3

Division/Squadron: Engineering Dept.

Years Aboard: 1970-1972

Location: Evansville, In USA

Comments: My two years active duty put me on this great ship. It was in its 4 year major overhall at Hunters Point Naval Ship Yards, home ported in San Fransico California. I made the 1971 Southeast Asian cruse. I worked out of the Aviation/Ordinance Shop, located at the hanger bay center port side next to the battery locker. I serviced all of the elevators; fueling stations (hanger bay & flight deck; catapults and aressting gear; and the boat and air craft crane located on the starboard side of the flight deck just aft of the island. I enjoy comming to this web site with my grand children. This is a great website to show them what thier grndfather was doing to serve his country. It makes it easier to explain things when they can actully see what you are trying to tell them. Serving on this Aircraft Carrier was a proud moment in my life. Thanks again for this site.

Ron

Nick Name/Call Sign: Willie

Rank/Rate: AMS-2

Division/Squadron: V-6 Air

Years Aboard: 1960-1963

Location: Lake Charles, LA. USA

Comments: 51 years ago this month I came aboard the gray lady and left 36 months later with hope for the future; I haven't been disappointed!

Nick Name/Call Sign: Marc Remhof

Rank/Rate: AMH-3

Division/Squadron: VA-94

Years Aboard: 1971-1972 1973

Location: Inver Grove Heights, MN USA

Comments: We are planning a get together for June 4th, 2011 in San Diego at the USS Midway for those of us who served with VA-94 from 1970 to 1976. Contact Marc at 651-457-1554 or drop me a note at remhof@q.com

Nick Name/Call Sign: Texx

Rank/Rate: ABHAN

Division/Squadron: V-1 Division

Years Aboard: 1978- 1982

Location: New Vienna, OH USA

Comments: This is the first time I have been on this year and I'm checking in. Bob the new layout looks great. God bless the men of the U.S.S Coral Sea. Later, Texx

Rank/Rate: Super

Division/Squadron: Main

Years Aboard:

Location: , USA

Comments: I remember it v well. sm7485@theleys.net

Rank/Rate: MS3

Division/Squadron: S-5

Years Aboard: 1984-88

Location: Covington, Ky USA

Comments: Looking for old friends. I have found some through this site and the USS Coral Sea facebook page.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Crash

Rank/Rate: E-1 -E-5

Division/Squadron: B-2

Years Aboard: 86-89

Location: ST. Helens, Oregon USA

Comments: Lots of memories...

Rank/Rate: GMG3

Division/Squadron: 5Th. Div.

Years Aboard: 1970-1974

Location: Urbana, Ill. USA

Comments: Looking for all my old shipmates.Found a few, Sauce,Nunez,Sierra,Baltazar,Greer,Loomer,Chief Weinel.

Rank/Rate: GMG3

Division/Squadron: 5Th. Div.

Years Aboard: 1970-1974

Location: Urbana, Ill. USA

Comments: Looking for all my old shipmates.Found a few, Sauce,Nunez,Sierra,Baltazar,Greer,Loomer,Chief Weinel.

Rank/Rate: QM2

Division/Squadron: NAV

Years Aboard: 67 -69

Location: Tucson, AZ USA

Comments: Today,January 31 2011, marks the 43rd anniversary of the 1968 TET Offensive for those of us who were aboard CVA-43.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Big H

Rank/Rate: E-4 ABH -3

Division/Squadron: V-1

Years Aboard: 1981-1984

Location: , USA

Comments: Hello to all my old shipmates!Hope the new year is off to a good start!Sure do miss those good times we had together on the old CORAL SEA!Hey BEEBS take some time and serch this website you will find names that will bring back some good memories!Well maybe.

Nick Name/Call Sign: JEDI

Rank/Rate: e-4

Division/Squadron: vfa-137

Years Aboard: '86 - 90

Location: milwaukee, wis USA

Comments: shipmates, I need your help, our house burned down in a terrible fire and we lost everything we ever owned , me and my parents lived in that house for 30 years and all my navy pictures and souvenirs my favorite being my zippo collection. I am looking to buy zippo lighters from the coral sea and any other ships or bases . can someone please help ??? please contact f18handlerkiko@live.com kiko ojeda thank you

Rank/Rate: AE-3

Division/Squadron: V1/AIMD-3

Years Aboard: 1976-1980

Location: Annandale, Virginia USA

Comments: What an indelible experience to have deployed on two west pacs. The 1st deployment was as a nonrated blue shirt on the flight deck (fly 2) then performing night moves and maintenance turns plus tractor PM's. Upon return to the World The Ship entered dry docks in Wash. I was temporally assigned to A school in Tenn. Shortlythereafter was a brief training in Whidbey Is., Wash. and back to the P.I. serving in AIMD-3. The relationships developed aboard CV-43 are everlasting. The services we preformed in the gulf did not receive full recognition for dutied provided. Thanks to All.

Rank/Rate: AT2

Division/Squadron: HC-1 det 6

Years Aboard: 72-73

Location: Camarillo, CA USA

Comments: Almost 40 years after the 72-73 cruises, everyone in HC-1 detachment 6 got the urge to find other members of our detachment that served aboard Coral Sea by visiting Facebook. HC-1 detachment 6 was formed in 1972 and decomissioned after the 1973 cruise. Bob Koster seemed to be unofficially appointed as the reunion director, and we voted to have the reunion in Las Vegas in the fall of 2011. I voted for the reunion to be in San Diego since our sqauadron was based at Naval Air Station Imperial Beach. In case some of you may not know where Imperial Beach is located, it is about 1/2 mile north of Tijuana, Mexico. In fact, the Tijuana River ran about 50 yards south of the runway. For more information, email Bob Koster at clvvbob@yahoo.com.

Rank/Rate: OSSN

Division/Squadron: OI Division

Years Aboard: 1976-80

Location: Waukegan, Illinois USA

Comments: Also served at Naval Hospital Oakland, Naval Station Treasure Island and Naval Air Station Moffett Field.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Tractor King

Rank/Rate: ABH3

Division/Squadron: V-1

Years Aboard: 1977-1978

Location: Chicago, Illinois USA

Comments: Some of the Best Friemds, and adventures / times of my Life !

Nick Name/Call Sign: Sauce

Rank/Rate: AN / E-3

Division/Squadron: Air Dept V-4 Div

Years Aboard: 1968-1972

Location: Deland, Florida USA

Comments: Hey Bob, thanks for having this website up and running. I thought we would never see this website up and running again. Just got back from visiting shipmates/friends, Henry Enriquez & Raul Rios down in Houston, Texas. Here's wishing all a Happy New Year. Sauce

Nick Name/Call Sign: "Andy"

Rank/Rate: EM-1

Division/Squadron: 'E' Div. ships battery locker

Years Aboard: 1955 - 1957

Location: Amboy, IL USA

Comments: Was fortunate to make the last two Med cruises, and Her "Liberty" trip around S. America to the Bremerton. WA shipyard for De-commissioning and re-construction. The battery locker was located Port aft next to the aft deck elevator just under the flight deck -- and the entrance hatch about 30ft from one of the 5" guns(when fired --"rocked my shop"!!
Many fine friends, and memories, to last a life time -- I'm glad I didn't miss the cruise!!

Rank/Rate: MM3

Division/Squadron: M - Repair Cage & #2 Engine

Years Aboard: 1965 - 1968

Location: Hamilton, Ohio USA

Comments: USA

Rank/Rate: ABE2

Division/Squadron: V-2

Years Aboard: 83 - 86

Location: Sac City, IA USA

Comments: Just checking in for the new year.
Cat 2 Can Do

Nick Name/Call Sign: UNCLE DAN

Rank/Rate: BT-3

Division/Squadron: B -DIV. & BOILER REPAIR

Years Aboard: 1965-1968

Location: ELYRIA, OHIO USA

Comments: SHE THE CORAL sea was a legend happy trails.

Nick Name/Call Sign: BALDY

Rank/Rate: E-5 AMS2

Division/Squadron: V-1 /IM2 AIMD

Years Aboard: 80-84

Location: Parker, co USA

Comments: Just want to say Hello to all my shipmates and hope that all are well!!

Nick Name/Call Sign: Sweet Lou

Rank/Rate: GM3

Division/Squadron: 4th

Years Aboard: 1955,56,57

Location: Ocala, Fl USA

Comments: Good to see the site back up again. Thanks Bob for the great work. Just want to wish you all a happy new year, and good health. Hard to believe it's almost 53 years since being discharged. I was one of the straight deck sailors. I look at my '56 yearbook every so often and it brings back some nice memories.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Makeye

Rank/Rate: MM-3

Division/Squadron: A-1

Years Aboard: 1965 -1968

Location: Rice lake, WI USA

Comments: Hello to all my shipmates that survived another year. I have a question Somebody on this site said all they had to prove was they were a hundred miles off the coast to get Agent orange VA benefits. I have been reading a lot about the Bluewater sailor issue and thought you had to prove "boots on the ground" has something changed?

Nick Name/Call Sign: BEANER

Rank/Rate: ASE2

Division/Squadron: AIMD IM4 3M/DCPO

Years Aboard: 84-87

Location: Houston, Tx USA

Comments: and this is for WO Ooten,i do remembr you sir like if it was yesterday as i would cross ways with you thru the second deck pssgways you saying 'pussy good' aftr people would greet you and ask how you were doing,as far as am concerned sir,that personally to me is your registered trademark,especially during them hard days of trying to get the ship to fully pass the Eng/3M standard quals,I sutr hope you are enjoying your life truly in your own words pussy good

Nick Name/Call Sign: BEANER

Rank/Rate: ASE2

Division/Squadron: AIMD IM4 GSE Shop DCPO

Years Aboard: 84-87

Location: Hiouston, Tx USA

Comments: Ohh,man,if anyone can tell me that they cant keep from holding back a sigh maybe even a tear after cruising this AWESOME SITE,am sorry but ur trying to Bravo Sierra everybody,I hated that ship just as much as i love having been there after all these years,Great Memories,Hey Dugan,pumpkin head,hey i see they do make chiefs hats to fit everyone,lol,Birddog,Larry it was good to have you as LPO,AS1 Schultz,can never forget you saying,I Got a Small Job for you,Mr SPONTAK,you had to be the best DO ever,Thank you for all the trust and faith you had in me as your DCPO,Hey BAiley you were pretty cool,Luis Arcebal,i had never had been beaten at pool the way you used to beat me everytime we skated off ship and drove off in your escort and gallivanted around the base then went to the REC CENTER to shoot pool,Soo many more things to say,But I sure hope everyone enjpys and experiences the same great feelings of going back to this era of EXCELLENCE in serving aboard this GREAT LADY WARRIOR,and as someone aptly put it,The MIDWAY should have been the one scrapped

Rank/Rate: MM3

Division/Squadron: G-4

Years Aboard: 1986-1990

Location: Chesapeake, Va USA

Comments: It was a priviledge to serve on board.

Rank/Rate: AD-1

Division/Squadron: HC-1 DET 3

Years Aboard: 79-81

Location: , USA

Comments: Happy New Yeasr to all shipmates hope this is a good one. enjoyed my time aboard the ship. would'nt trade it for anything. smooth sailing.

Nick Name/Call Sign: WALT THE SALT

Rank/Rate: ABH-1 U.S. NAVY RETIRED

Division/Squadron: V-1 AND V-3 DIVISION

Years Aboard: 10/22/1964 TO 04/06/1968 AND 06/17/1977 TO 09/12/1983

Location: STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA USA

Comments: WOW!ANOTHER YEAR TO LOOK BACK AND SEE JUST HOW FAR I CAME AFTER THAT GREAT DAY OF REPORTING TO THE GREATEST AIRCRAFT CARRIER AFLOAT IN THE U.S. NAVY. ALL THE SHIPMATE WHO ARE STILL HERE LIKE MYSELF AND ALL THE ONE WHO HAVE GONE TO THE GREAT SEA VOYAGE IN THE SKY AND LOOKING BACK WE MADE HISTORY THAT VERY FIRST COMBAT VIETNAM WESTPAC CRUISE WHICH LASTED 331 DAYS AND STILL TODAY NO OTHER NAVAL SHIP HAS EVER SURPASSED THAT RECORD YET HELD OVER 45 YEARS AGO. SINCE THEN I'VE SPENT LONGER DAYS AT SEA IN THE PERSIAN GULF AND ONE WORLD CRUISE THAT WAS TEN MONTHS LONG TO VIETNAM IN 1970 ABOARD ANOTHER AIRCRAFT CARRIER WHO NEVER OUT FLEW THE CORAL SEA IN COMBAT. SO TO ALL THE YOUNG FLEET SAILORS TODAY WHO MAKE THEIR FIRST CRUISE TO WESTPAC ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT THE CORAL SEA SET THE PACE FOR YOU TO FOLLOW JUST LIKE I DID AFTER SPENDING 528 DAYS ON THE LINE DURING FOUR COMBAT CRUISES TO VIETNAM. JUST LIKE BUILDING A HOUSE YOUR FOUNDATION STARTS AT THE BOTTOM JUST LIKE YOUR VERY FIRST CRUISE WHICH SET THE PACE FOR ALL THE CRUISES YOU MAKE LATER WHETHER YOU STAY IN THE NAVY FOR A CAREER OR GET OUT YOUR VERY FIRST CRUISE WILL ALWAYS BE THE ONE YOU'LL REMEMBER, TRUST ME! WALT THE SALT

Rank/Rate: IS1(AW)

Division/Squadron: OZ/ CVIC

Years Aboard: 84-87

Location: Kansas City, Missouri USA

Comments: Iam currently in the process of trying to get my VA disability rating increased., and I was just wondering if there is any of my shipmates onboard board during that time period or around it that worked on the 03 level under the flight deck and have experienced any hearing problems. I would greatly appreciate hearing from you.

Rank/Rate: ABHAN

Division/Squadron: V-3 division Hanger Bay

Years Aboard: 1968 to 1972

Location: Beaumont, Ca. USA

Comments: Another year so another post. Served my entire 4 year enlistment in V-3 Division working on the hanger bay, as much as I hated it at time I would have never missed the opportunity of serving on this great war ship and meeting all of those men who I served with. After the passing of time I have very fond memories of my time in the Navy and as crew member of this proud ship.

Nick Name/Call Sign: Joe

Rank/Rate: BT-3

Division/Squadron: MP-B

Years Aboard: 74-78

Location: Interlachen, Fl USA

Comments: Happy new years to all, Glad to see the site underway again