USS Coral Sea Guestbook 2002

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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I forgot to mention his name was Harold Hilliard.
James Hilliard <jhkh819@sherbtel.net>
- Friday, December 27, 2002 at 11:55:19 (PST)

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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)

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onboard 1976-1980 A Division
Joe McCoole PeeWee <ssmccoo@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, December 26, 2002 at 23:14:44 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Real glad to see this web site...
EDWARD LUNDIN <edkay59@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 22, 2002 at 12:22:39 (PST)

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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)

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Served aboard 1955-1956 Fire Control Div.
Harry Ferm <hferm@msn.com>
- Friday, December 20, 2002 at 17:58:21 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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m-1 div
billy jeter <b_jeter@budweiser.com>
- Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 20:19:17 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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"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)

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great site brings back alot of memories (77-81)
mike smalley <mike.smalley@alaskaair.com>
- Monday, December 09, 2002 at 14:47:09 (PST)

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I was in #1 enging room
John R Gahn <jrgahn@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 08, 2002 at 20:08:42 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Looking for shipmates 82-85 A division
Doug Stewart < ifdstewart@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 03:40:42 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Great Site.
b hall <mto@cs.com>
- Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 06:10:33 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Division E from 52-55.
Dean E. King <klhatch@tellurian.net>
- Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 12:15:01 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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hello to all that served !!!
Wayne Malwitz (Mal) <spyder1@wi.rr.com>
- Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 19:12:03 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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guy men keep off
mugu <mugu@mugu.com>
- Monday, November 11, 2002 at 07:40:56 (PST)

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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)

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Great Site. 1987-1989 V2 Division
Tom Mastel <tjmastel@msn.com>
- Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 13:48:20 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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I served onboard 1967-68 cruises to Vietnam.
Leonard A. Walker <SnaggleRatz@aol.com>
- Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 14:30:43 (PST)

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Joe Land <trentonbuzzsaw@aol.com>
trenton, nj usa - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 07:57:58 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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I was a Radioman on the Coral Sea 1965-1966.
Tim Bunn <TBunn27592@AOL.Com>
- Thursday, October 31, 2002 at 15:53:27 (PST)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Like to here from any V1 div.
Osburn, Ralph <osburnjrl@intercor.com>
- Saturday, October 26, 2002 at 22:56:02 (PDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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1988-1990 B Div 1 charlie
Dene Driggers <fishnpa@aol.com>
- Monday, October 14, 2002 at 11:18:42 (PDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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MAR-DET 81-83
CPL T.L. OSBORNE
- Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 19:05:47 (PDT)

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MAR-DET 81-83
CPL T.L. OSBORNE
- Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 19:03:02 (PDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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I was in recomm nucleous crew in 1959. OE Division.
Joe Cassel <JoeNL7JT@msn.com>
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 10:41:23 (EDT)

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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)

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Time on the ship "West Pac 77"
Greg Priestas <Candy529@dalejr.net>
Galloway , Ohio USA - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 04:05:16 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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I served onboard from 1982-1988
RM3 Darrell A. Young <youngwtiger@wmconnect.com>
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 00:28:56 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Served aboard from 83-87 M-4 division
Bill Leslie <wdleslie@umich.edu>
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 22:05:30 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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80-83 ATCS, AIMD IM3 LCPO
Robert Macomber <rhmacomber@cox.net>
- Monday, August 26, 2002 at 17:35:22 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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E-mail me you ol swabs
EM-2 Bob Berg <bobby_berg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, August 19, 2002 at 18:10:52 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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"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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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was aboard 1968-69 as a PC.
Dr. Jay M. Roth PhD <jaaybird1@msn.com>
- Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 17:23:08 (EDT)

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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)

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nov 1973-aug 1976 boiler
Allen Ross <akross@chartermi.net>
- Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 21:48:18 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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aboard 1952 to 1954
anthony a. gaeta <anthony.coralseacvb@verizon.net>
- Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 06:35:24 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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NECK!
Paul Dickey <Pauld@texas.net>
- Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 18:45:39 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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USS Coral Sea Served: 81-86 Rating: MM2
Robert S. Webber, Jr. <RSWKDW@msn.com>
- Thursday, July 04, 2002 at 19:43:09 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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m1 div 1985-1986
billy jeter <b_jeter@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, June 27, 2002 at 17:32:40 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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1949. Any Bm's or Gm's still around?
John W. Richardson <Jrichar193@aol.com>
- Monday, June 17, 2002 at 23:35:45 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Served Aug80 - Nov81 in A-Division
Joe McCabe <coralmaru43@aol.com>
- Wednesday, June 12, 2002 at 03:42:05 (EDT)

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Served Aug80-Nov81 in A-division.
Joe McCabe <coralmaru43>
- Wednesday, June 12, 2002 at 03:40:01 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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served aboard coral maru oct 52 july 54
anthony a gaeta rm3 <coralseacvb43@yerizon.net>
- Friday, May 31, 2002 at 15:29:13 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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Excellant site.
Richard Segin <mr.rich4@comcast.net>
- Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 14:11:04 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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9-80 to6-84 V-1 div.
Jim Graves <Trsshunter@juno.com>
- Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 01:10:53 (EDT)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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 <