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Saturday, December 31, 2005 at 21:47:26 (MST)Name: pn3 eric "boom-boom" dammer
Rank/Rate: pn3
Division/Squadron: training
Years Aboard: 85-89
Comments: another year come and gone, and I still think about the ship just about every day. I miss that ol' gray lady. Fair winds to all you who ever walked her decks. Good luck and God bless.
Monday, December 26, 2005 at 11:49:32 (MST)Name: Tony
Rank/Rate: E-3
Division/Squadron: vf-111
Years Aboard: 2
Comments: It sucked, always on stores working parties, ships company never on those parties, it sucked working 16 hrs on flight deck...bad chow, no water to bathe and drinking water mixed with fuel...glad i got out
Monday, December 26, 2005 at 10:19:23 (MST)Name: RAY J JOHNSON
Rank/Rate: ABE-2
Division/Squadron: V2 A/G
Years Aboard: 83 - 86
Comments: HERE'S WISHING ALL MY CV-43 SHIPMATES A HAPPY,AND SAFE NEW YEAR, SEE YOU NEXT YEAR.
Saturday, December 24, 2005 at 16:33:16 (MST)Name: Harold Foster
Rank/Rate: SK-3
Division/Squadron: S-1
Years Aboard: 1959 till June 1963
Comments: For some reason not very many in th ships company in the early 60's have signed in. I'm very glad that I was able to spend almost 4 years on the Coral Sea. I've talk to some that has no use for thir time on board, but that's their loss. I would love to be able to spend a few days at sea on the USS RAGAN, but that will never happen. Keep up this site, its a good place. I am now retired living on Lake Eufaula in Oklahoma.
Saturday, December 24, 2005 at 12:57:43 (MST)Name: Ernest J. Croteau
Rank/Rate: RM
Division/Squadron: Radio Central
Years Aboard: 3 years
Comments: I boarded the USS Coral Sea in April 1953 to the 5th Division. The only name I can remember was Elroy Fink. Needless to say, he was a boxer, with two front teeth missing, but a good man.
After the Med cruise I went to Radioman School and ended up in Radio Central from 1954 to 1955. Names I can remember: Schultz, Cook, Jackson, McGrath, Joe Ryan, and Nagy. I don't remember Nagy's first name, but I sure wish someone could help me find him. He and I and some others used to pump iron together in Hangarbay 3, starboard side.
Anyone who knows where Nagy is or that remembers me please contact me.
Merry Christmas to the crew of the USS Coral Sea.
Saturday, December 24, 2005 at 11:45:19 (MST)Name: Mike (Oscar ) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BTFN
Division/Squadron: B-Div. 4ABLE Fireroom
Years Aboard: 74-77
Comments: MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, Pls. don't forget our Servicemen/Women serving. God Bless Us ALL. Later, Mike (Oscar)Pfeffer
Thursday, December 22, 2005 at 13:29:40 (MST)Name: Jon Allen
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: A Gang
Years Aboard: 85-89
Comments: To my fellow shipmates....
May your underway replenishments be filling, may your expansion tanks never spew through the vents, may your watches be relieved on time, and may your ports of call be many!!!
Another year above ground!!! Merry Christmas!!!
Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at 12:48:25 (MST)Name: glendon s anderson
Rank/Rate: abh3
Division/Squadron: v-1 rep-8
Years Aboard: 62-65
Comments: i have pictures os a3d going into the barrior also coral sea dailynews feb 9 1965 read some of the mishaps some wasn't true
Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at 10:43:49 (MST)Name: Ray Meketa
Rank/Rate: GM2
Division/Squadron: 5th Div
Years Aboard: 1954 - 1957
Comments: I spent three Christmases on board and boy did we eat good for the holidays. Almost as good as at home. MERRY CHRISTMAS to all Coral Sea shipmates from every era.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at 09:00:48 (MST)Name: R. Eric Woodward (Woody)
Rank/Rate: ABE-2
Division/Squadron: V-2 (the Gear)
Years Aboard: 77-81
Comments: May you all have a Merry Christmas and a Safe New Year
Monday, December 19, 2005 at 19:54:04 (MST)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: I saw a show on the History Channel this evening about the USS Midway (CV-41). It was very interesting, it showed a complete history of the ship. The show had lots of film from the very early years in straight deck configuration all the way through the decommissioning and creation of the San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum. A former Engineering officer from our ship, I believe his name was CDR Bob Klien had a pretty big part in the show. This was a special presentation on the History Channel, so maybe there is a chance that in the future, that we will see one about the Coral Sea someday. This show brought back some real nice memories. They had some extremely nice footage of flight ops, with every type of plane that ever flew from Midways' deck from F4U Corsairs to Hornets and my personal favorite the F4 Phantom. If any of you get a chance to see the show, it is well worth an hour of your time. Later, Texx
Monday, December 19, 2005 at 17:00:08 (MST)Name: David Gray
Rank/Rate: BM-3
Division/Squadron: 1st
Years Aboard: 1981-1984
Comments: Merry Christmas to all of you Coral Muru'ers and a Happy New Year!!!!
Saturday, December 17, 2005 at 19:30:50 (MST)Name: Roger Burcham
Rank/Rate: IC2
Division/Squadron: E
Years Aboard: 1956-57
Comments: Hello to all,
I was just thinking about some of the great things the old lady did and some of the "firsts" on her record. I read the other day in SOF mag about the mining of the harbor in North Vietnam. Seven planes from the Coral Sea without a hitch. That effectivly Started the peace talks. This is only one of many great stories. NOW....Here is the main thing I want to say. Number 76 is the USS Ronald Reagan. Number 77 is "planned construction" named the USS George H. W. Bush. Let us all try to get that changed to the USS Coral Sea. Write your senators an reps. Thanks.
Friday, December 16, 2005 at 18:29:05 (MST)Name: Mike Elliott
Comments: What a great site!! My dad was on board the Coral sea 43 in 1947, Eugene Elliott. He had passed away but now when I want to think of him I'll just visit your site. thank you
Thursday, December 15, 2005 at 21:57:18 (MST)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Just spoke to John Tipton, another ABH from V-1 during my time onboard. We caught up on old times and new. To all of my fellow Coral Sea sailors, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Long live the memory of the USS Coral Sea.
Thursday, December 15, 2005 at 05:53:27 (MST)Name: JIM PAGE
Rank/Rate: HM-3
Division/Squadron: MEDICAL
Years Aboard: 1967-68
Comments: I WOULD LOVE TO HERE FROM ANYBODY IN MY DIVISION OR ANYBODY THAT REMEMBERS ME.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at 20:09:09 (MST)Name: Darrell Young
Rank/Rate: RM3
Division/Squadron: CR
Years Aboard: 1983-1988
Comments: ANYONE INTERESTED YOU CAN GET A CERTIFICATE FOR THE COLD WAR ERA BY GOING TO THE FOLLOWING LINK: http://usmilitary.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http://coldwar.army.mil/faq.htm
Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at 02:22:06 (MST)Name: cooper
Rank/Rate: MMFN
Division/Squadron: M-3
Years Aboard: 86 - 89
Comments: jon allen......... i remember when abe and henderson introduced me to you, a memory that will stick for a long time, i wont go into the details of it for the sake of descency, however, i have read your input into these logs for quite some time now, still havent seen you running around seattle yet, if at some point it's possible i would greatly enjoy meeting up at one of the areas fine dining establishments to shoot the breeze over a cup of joe, say like beths cafe, one of seattles oldest dives, at any rate i do agree with all the statements you have made about the world today and our place in the scheme of world goings on....... happy holidays to all my shipmates ......fair winds and following seas
Thursday, December 08, 2005 at 18:42:05 (MST)Name: Robert Smith
Rank/Rate: E-5
Division/Squadron: VMFA-323
Years Aboard: 1
Comments: West Pac during the Hostage rescue attempt form Iran, seen her on the History channel thought I would look for a site. Looks great keep it going.
Thursday, December 08, 2005 at 13:39:03 (MST)Name: Dave "big ben" Bolty
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: GM
Years Aboard: 66-67
Comments: love the site. lots of great info. I wasnt the best sailor, wish I could do it
again though. met some great folks, proud of our record in nam. god bless all
the military past and present.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005 at 10:44:51 (MST)Name: CHARLES GYORE
Rank/Rate: E-4
Division/Squadron: VFA-131
Years Aboard: 1986-1988
Comments: Hi,
My name is AO3 Charles J Gyore; I was with VFA-131 on the 87-88 Med cruise. I was one of the guys that took the Aim-7 off the F/A-18 flown by Lt Shippi, which is on fire in the picture sent in by Scott Miller (Thanks Scott). I am trying to find out more information about an airman who got ran over by an A-6 in the beginning of our cruise. I am sure he was with VA-65. Any info such as his name or the day it happened would be a great help. I also knew AN Cornell, he would run bomb racks up his elevator for me and my pals so we didn’t have to carry them up the stairs. He was so cool. I remember hearing the medical emergency on the sponson over the 1MC, I was just going on duty. I seen them running him on a stretcher through the hanger and freaked out when I saw who it was. The Navy lost a good sailor that day.
Charles J. Gyore
Sunday, December 04, 2005 at 21:57:06 (MST)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Checked out the documentary about the Maya Guez operation on the History Channel this past Friday. Bob Blough, who posted the information, was in the show. It was a very interesting show. It would have been nice to see more footage of the ship. There was a nice overhead shot early in the program and a couple of flightdeck scenes toward the end. If anyone from the History Channel sees this, maybe a series about great ships of the US Navy would be something you guys could think about. The USS Coral Sea would have to fall into that category. To all of my fellow Coral Sea veterans have a happy and safe holiday season.
Thursday, December 01, 2005 at 22:00:26 (MST)Name: JEFF CRABTREE
Rank/Rate: EM-5
Division/Squadron: SUPPLY
Years Aboard: 84-88
Comments: I'd like to give a shout out to all the guys, in the Supply department, who I served with.
I like to thank Captain Roper and LT Fuchs; it was a privilege and an honor to serve under them.
I will always remember my first week on board because we were hit by a freighter off the coast of Cuba, I slept through it.
I also remember teaching Libya how to not draw a line, 3 times.
I am proud to have served on the USS Coral Sea, it made me the person I am. To all my Coral Sea shipmates
Thank You
Crabby
Thursday, December 01, 2005 at 18:54:29 (MST)Name: Darrell Young
Rank/Rate: RM3
Division/Squadron: CR
Years Aboard: 1983-1988
Comments: Just want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, and Pray for all to have a great New Year. God bless
Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 00:21:39 (MST)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Please allow me to correct myself. Through further research I found that my memory had failed me. Randy "Duke" Cunningham was a Navy F-4 pilot and was ops officer for VF-154.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005 at 21:21:23 (MST)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Sorry to hear about the trouble Duke Cunningham has gotten himself into. If I remember correctly he was CO of one of the Marine F-4 squadrons on the 79-80 West Pac cruise. Oh well, I guess you play you pay.
Monday, November 28, 2005 at 03:21:29 (MST)Name: Bob Blough
Rank/Rate: 1Lt, USAF
Division/Squadron: Jolly Green 44, HH-53
Years Aboard: 1975 - about 10 minutes
Comments: History Channel documentary on the Mayaguez Operation in May, 1975 will air on December 2 at 10:00pm ET/PT. Titled "Heroes Under Fire; Deadly Reckoning".
USS Coral Sea played a major part in this op.
Thanks for the gas.
Sunday, November 27, 2005 at 20:39:04 (MST)Name: R.W.Cotton
Rank/Rate: ms2
Division/Squadron: s-2 / (s-5 for a few months)
Years Aboard: 76-79
Comments: Thanks LCpl Kilper we did try hard in the galley. I do beleave seeing you standing watch in those cages off the main and the forward messdecks.
Merry Christmas.
Sunday, November 27, 2005 at 18:47:52 (MST)Name: Richard Kilper
Rank/Rate: LCpl
Division/Squadron: Marine Detachment
Years Aboard: 76-78
Comments: I boarded her at Longbeach. The last thing I wanted, was to be a sea-going Marine. My C.O. told me the only way out was to go A.W.O.L. I'm glad I didn't
I had such agreat time. My fondest memory was the last day in Alongapo. There
were so many of the crew coming back late, the Captain had to hold the ship at
dock. I got 45 days x-tra duty,45 days restriction, and $500.00 fine. She
was worth it.(lol) I did learn that you squids are not all that bad. Some
of the best food I ever ate was aboard that ship. Except for powder milk.
When I learned of the ships fate, it had left a hollow space in my heart. She
deserved better. God bless you all.
Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: To all of my fellow Coral Sea vets, have a happy and safe Thanksgiving.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005 at 10:19:50 (MST)Name: Lee Haines
Rank/Rate: LCpl
Division/Squadron: Mar Det
Years Aboard: 1988-1989
Comments: I was a member of the last MarDet to serve aboard her. It was my first duty station I had after Boot Camp. I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I received my orders, but carrying on in the oldest tradition of duty the Corps was memorable and I am proud to have done it on the "Ageless Warrior".
Name: Charles W. Cline
Rank/Rate: E4
Division/Squadron: B division
Years Aboard: 1967 to 1971
Comments: Worked in 4able and 4baker firerooms. Berthed in the fordward compartment.
Sunday, November 13, 2005 at 19:49:20 (MST)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Would like to wish all Coral Sea sailors and all veterans who may see this a happy Veterans Day and thank you for your service.
Saturday, November 12, 2005 at 17:03:23 (MST)Name: James Taylor
Rank/Rate: ADAN
Division/Squadron: vf-83
Years Aboard: 1953
Comments: WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE ON THE 1953 MED CRUISE
Friday, November 11, 2005 at 20:19:11 (MST)Name: Walter J. Murphy
Rank/Rate: PHSN
Division/Squadron: 0 1
Years Aboard: 1952-1953
Comments:
I made some great friends, like brothers during my time in the Coral Maru.
She was a very big part of my life time education. Besides, I probably wouldn't have seen half of the world standing on a street corner in Brooklyn, N.Y.
Wouldn't trade my time on the old girl for the world
Wednesday, November 09, 2005 at 08:33:54 (MST)Name: Richard L. Steele
Rank/Rate: AK3
Division/Squadron: VA-97
Years Aboard: 1979-80
Comments: Nice to have another resorce for the ship and squadrons thanks. I am looking for a fellow crew member, Willian "Bill" Scoggins AOAN VA-97 1980-83. He latter LDO'ed and served on USS Indapendance in the 90's I think he made LtCmdr (ordance officer) by his retirement. I have goggled him and used other search eng over the past years, so if you know were he is forward this to him or e-mail me w/any info you might have. Thank you.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005 at 11:27:34 (MST)Name: Jimmy Carlisle
Rank/Rate: CMDCM(AW/SW)
Division/Squadron: Supply/S-7
Years Aboard: 2
Comments: I was a IM1 onboard for her last cruise. I decommissioned her in Portsmouth. VA. The Coral Sea was my favorite ship of all times. I enjoyed the history of this great ship and felt honored to have served on her.
Many years ago I saw a picture of the ship in the Navy Times being torn apart for scrap metal. It really broke my heart.
Sunday, November 06, 2005 at 21:14:20 (MST)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Just talked to Ed Burkhardt after 23+ years. Memories of tractor shack apple jack, 102 days in the IO and Chief Chevy. We exchanged addresses and phone numbers, will definitely keep in touch. We talked about old times and good memories. Long live the USS Coral Sea (CV-43)in the hearts and memories of her crew.
Sunday, November 06, 2005 at 01:27:00 (MST)Name: Daniel Caviness
Rank/Rate: ETR-2
Division/Squadron: OE, Overhead Electronics
Years Aboard: 1975-1976
Comments: Hello to everyone.
I was only aboard a short time awaiting my slot in Nuke School at Mare Island and I spent about six months onboard. I have to say she was an awesome ship and the first time this 18 year old recruit walked down the docks at Alameda and saw her rising up through the fog that morning....I thought twice before walking up the afterbrow to report for duty....man...I had never SEEN anything that big in the water....holy cow...
Our Division Chief really didn't know what to do with either me or the other two TDY unqualified Nukes he got...so he assigned us to the SPS-10 Radar and told us to "stay ship shape" or he'd make us sorry quick.
We did, and he didn't. Thank God that was the radar we qualified on at ET School in Great Lakes...or we'd have been in the galley for six months straight! As it was we three did our six weeks in the barrel (I chose Master at Arms over galley duty....I hate washing dishes) and after that it was smooth sailing. I will never forget night operations when those F-4's were landing...and being a radar tech...I had a front row seat up on vulture's row!
Regards to everyone who served on her, what a grand old lady she was. Imagine my culture shock a year later reporting for duty on a fast attack submarine with a crew of 92!
ps: Does anyone remember raiding the Enterprise for her old/obsolete battle lanterns? Now THAT was fun...
Saturday, November 05, 2005 at 19:15:46 (MST)Name: darrell schonborn
Rank/Rate: ABH3
Division/Squadron: V-1
Years Aboard: 2
Comments: just checking in, was horrified to see my old lady scrapped and was even considered by some to sell her steel parts to china which thank god didnt occur.if anyone is out there who went on the west pac cruise 79-80 including the 102 days in the i o please email me be glad to hear from an old shipmate, we can swap stories ,incidents, including bar stories.
Thursday, November 03, 2005 at 19:05:03 (MST)Name: Ray Meketa
Rank/Rate: GM2
Division/Squadron: 5th DIV
Years Aboard: 1954 - 1957
Comments: Checking in again. Still looking for any of my shipmates from the 5th Division during 1954 to decommissioning in 1957. I was on 5 Inch mounts 52 and 54 but would like to hear from any of you 5 Inch guys that are still kicking. Would especially like to hear from any of you New England guys who worked on the starboard side battery. Jim Carrier from New Hampshire is the only name I remember. How about Jim O'Keefe from Pittsburg or any of you rednecks from the southern states.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005 at 08:01:08 (MST)Name: Mazrk Jones
Division/Squadron: B Division
Years Aboard: 72 to 74
Comments: I was on board from Sep 72 to Oct 74. I was in B division and I worked in the Oil Shack. This is a good web site. It brings back a lot of memories, some good, some sad and some I rather forget. It is sad to see the Coral Sea go. She was a Gallant Lady and a True Warrior. Good luck to all who served on her.
Monday, October 31, 2005 at 17:19:43 (MST)Name: Charles Holder
Rank/Rate: AKC
Division/Squadron: S-6 Div
Years Aboard: 1976-1979
Comments: Very enjoyble times while serving aboard.
Monday, October 31, 2005 at 11:48:58 (MST)Name: Borders, Dawyn E.
Rank/Rate: AB3
Division/Squadron: V-1, MAA
Years Aboard: 1950-1953
Comments: Did any females ever serve aboard the Coral Sea except the young woman a bunch of boiler tenders snuck aboard at Sardinia, Sicily- it could have been Arancia Bay-in 1951. My! She did serve. The Chief Master-At-Arms instructed us to find her. We never found her and sometime after dark the same boiler tenders snuck her off the ship.
I wonder how many of the old ships company are still around. I'd even like to hear from F.J. Zawadski- the first real brown noser I ever knew. How about Tom Taylor- naw somebody killed him a long time ago for some reason. There were many characters on that ship at hat time and somehow we did what we were supposed to do. I don't understand how but we did.
Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 21:37:37 (MDT)Name: Greg Carter
Rank/Rate: E4
Division/Squadron: Public Affairs Office
Years Aboard: 1984-1989
Comments: Journalist in Public Affairs Office, Chuzitz, Wood, LaFerriere, Giusti were on my staff.
Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 17:08:10 (MDT)Name: Ray Johnson
Rank/Rate: ABE-2
Division/Squadron: V2 A/G
Years Aboard: 83 - 86
Comments: Hello to all you Coral Sea Warriors, Time to muster in again. Thank you and a job well done, to all who keep our memmories alive on this GREAT SITE. Have alot of fond, and not so fond memmories to share with any of you cats and gear rats. And if you are still serving, Thank you, from one vet to another.......
Friday, October 28, 2005 at 19:49:45 (MDT)Name: Daniel Mei
Rank/Rate: AMSAN
Division/Squadron: AIMD- airframes
Years Aboard: 69-70
Comments: just wanted to say hi to a fine ship and her many crewman well done
Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 19:53:59 (MDT)Name: James (Jim) Heany
Rank/Rate: AN
Division/Squadron: V-1 Division
Years Aboard: 1966 / 67 / 68
Comments: Great Ship. When I was on it, I wished it was over, now that it's over, I wish I was on it. I was a Blue Shirt on the Flight Deck. Got on in Subic. Thought of a while I wasn't going to make it. On the end of mine and two other's Orders was (SGN) and they forced the 3 of us on a flight out of the Philipines to Cholon, VietNam. It took them a week to figured out their mistake. When I tried to explain to the Marine at the desk that we were suppose to catch the Coral Sea in Subic, his reply was, GET ON THAT PLANE OR I'LL SHOOT YA. Interesting guy that Marine. Probably just following orders. But it gave us a weeks vacation in Nam. Google: The district of Cholon in Ho Chi Minh is Saigon’s China town. Anyone ever hear of Kenneth Platte. Onboard 66-68, V-1 Div. No he doesn't owe me money, just a good friend I've lost touch with. ANYONE from V-1 66-68 please contact me at Jheany6760@aol.com
Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 10:24:38 (MDT)Name: bob
Comments: test
Friday, October 21, 2005 at 18:14:54 (PDT)Name: ROBERT STEWART
Comments: ANYBODY OUT THERE FROM THE LAST CRUISE S-8 DIVISION?
Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 10:32:01 (PDT)Name: Mike Geier
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B-4B Fire Room
Years Aboard: 81- 84
Comments: West-Pac 81-82 when Olongapo Phillipine Islands was still a port call.
In '97 had a reunion with "Richie" and "The Wedge" would love to hear from guys like Matt E. from Hawaii and Buck, Bubba, Red, Parker, Taylor. Hey Taylor are you still in? Chief Pena, Master Chief Gunner. All the BT's from the early 80's. The Coral Sea really knew how to burn some fuel oil, I guess with 8 boilers steaming to 4 engines at 25 knots, she would get an astouding 1,103 gallons per mile. Not bad for 63,000 tons of post WW2 steel. Sure miss the ol'lady. Good web site to keep her image and memories vibrant. The more I read and look at the web site, the more the memories return. I do have a cassette tape of Capt. Bear Taylor some where with an assortment of fireroom photos. Back in the early eighties the USN was paying $16,000.00 for a BT to re-enlist for 4 more. Now the entire BT rate is GONE!
Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 14:52:13 (PDT)Name: Mike Geier
Rank/Rate: BT3
Division/Squadron: B Division of course 4B Fireroom
Years Aboard: '81 - '84
Comments: 4 Baker fire room, one heck of a boiler, been inside outside and under side of the boiler and ship. West-Pac 81-82, World Cruise '83. Seen her in drydock in Portsmouth. Just started using Google Earth and found the USS Midway CV-41 in Oakland, CA. On the other side of USS Coral Sea CV-43's old homeport of Alameda, CA.
Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 09:57:27 (PDT)Name: Pete Mattschull
Rank/Rate: IC 2
Division/Squadron: V-2 PLAT / LENS
Years Aboard: 1982-1987
Comments: Rig the MOVLAS station 1, clean the centerline camera in the rain with an f18 in the groove, Pre ops & Pole checks. I hope that the PLAT / LENS crew has enjoyed much success since our days together doing all those fun things. I would to hear from some old shipmates.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 11:20:24 (PDT)Name: Sidney C. Dockery Jr.
Rank/Rate: BTFN
Division/Squadron: Boilers/4 Baker Fireroom
Years Aboard: 1974-78
Comments: Went to the USS Coral Sea Annual Reunion in Jacksonville, Fl. this past weekend and as usual had a great time! Saw Mike (Oscar) Pfeffer, Al (Wacky Racer) Ross and Paul (Chief) Bernardy from my era. Also saw new shipmate friends from 1947 to early 1970's (Bob, Herman, Sal, Jim, Rom, Ed, David, Pat, John, Clarence, Orville, and many others) whom I've come to know over the last three years. One thing really bothers me though and that was the Guest Speaker after dinner Saturday night. I feel the kid from Sudan was very inappropriate! We have enough problems of our own here in the United States. I personally don't need any Bleeding Heart Liberals pushing the rest of the worlds problems on me! We are coming together to preserve the legacy of the USS Coral Sea plus helping fellow shipmates and their families when possible. Enough said... If I offended anyone, Get over it... God Bless Our Armed Forces and the U.S.A.
From the Heart of Dixie,
Sidney (Doc) C. Dockery Jr.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 06:00:31 (PDT)Name: Charles M. "Mike" Morgan
Rank/Rate: AZ3
Division/Squadron: VF-151
Years Aboard: 1967-1970
Comments: Just got back from the Jacksonville "USS Coral Sea Association" Reunion. Want to thank the Officers and Board of the Association for a job well done. Nice Hotel, Great Area to Visit, enjoyable tour of the USS John F. Kennedy and of Mayport. Chatted with and enjoyed chatting to many new friends and "Old Shipmates". This was only my 2nd reunion, but I am looking forward to going to more in the future. Would like to see more Squadron participation, come on all of you VF's, VA's, VFP's, VAW's, VAH's and others, Join in the celebration of, and remembrance of our old ship the USS Coral Sea by joining the Association and attending the reunions.....Mike
Monday, October 10, 2005 at 17:07:44 (PDT)Name: Jack "Charley" Noble
Rank/Rate: YN2
Division/Squadron: X(Admin)
Years Aboard: 1962-1964
Comments: I'm the guy who's always looking for Pucket, the kid who jumped ship on the way to Sydney during the 1963 cruise. Someone sent me an e-mail saying they were part of the search party for him and while I was trying to save it, I deleted it instead. If you read this and you were that person would you PLEASE send it again.
Sunday, October 09, 2005 at 10:34:13 (PDT)Name: R.W.Cotton
Rank/Rate: ms2
Division/Squadron: s-2 / (s-5 for a few months)
Years Aboard: 75 - 79
Comments: Ahoy Shipmates,
I am in hopes of getting in touch with cooks and galley messcranks who served with me in reguards to making direct amends to you. I am a long time friend of Bill W.
Paul Bernardy I got your $20 for $30;lol.
For any who wounders I made e-5 while a drilling reservest on board USS Excel MSO 439.
Friday, October 07, 2005 at 18:17:10 (PDT)Name: Vern Mello
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: VA-97
Years Aboard: 1979-1981
Comments: My previous entry gave the wrong email address. So please if you are emailing me the proper address is now listed. Thanks.Keep on stroken as the Skipper used to say.
Friday, October 07, 2005 at 12:49:59 (PDT)Name: Darrell Young
Rank/Rate: RM3
Division/Squadron: Communications (CR)
Years Aboard: 1983-1988
Comments: Its been 22 years now since I landed on the Coral Sea, on a cargo plain. I will never forget that day. I am glad to see that the old girl is being kept alive with all of your great stories and adventures, that you share each day on this web site. truley the Uss Coral Sea was and will always be one the finest ships the United States ever set sail. To all of the crews that served on her, hats off and god speed, for without all of us the Coral Sea would have never left port.
Thursday, October 06, 2005 at 14:44:04 (PDT)Name: Vern Mello
Rank/Rate: AO3
Division/Squadron: VA-97
Years Aboard: 1979-1981
Comments: It was a great cruise, though the trip into the IO was long, at total of 102 days. I am glad I was serving with all of the men who went out on that cruise. I am trying to get in touch with all of the guys from VA-97. I hope to do this someday. Take care and feel free to email me anytime.
Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 20:23:39 (PDT)Name: James Albert Spoon
Rank/Rate: airman3
Division/Squadron: vaw11
Years Aboard: 1962-1963
Comments: I was checking out the sight and wanted to add my name to the log.
Saturday, October 01, 2005 at 10:16:58 (PDT)Name: Mike Kartchner
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-3 Hanger Bay
Years Aboard: 1968 to 1972
Comments: Just wanted to provide anyone who may want to contact me with my new e-mail address [kartvines@verizon.net]. Welcome hearing from any one who remembers me.
Friday, September 30, 2005 at 12:45:48 (PDT)Name: Sidney C. Dockery Jr. (Doc)
Rank/Rate: BTFN
Division/Squadron: B - 4 Baker Fireroom
Years Aboard: 1974-78
Comments: Heading to Jacksonville, Fl. next week for the USS Coral Sea Association Annual Reunion. First stopping in Ocean Springs, Ms. to pick up Mike (Oscar) and Debbi Pfeffer (Chicago, Illinois) who are visiting their daughter, son-in-law and grandson. We then are visiting the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Fl. Can't get enough of the Sea Stories at the Reunion. Hoping to see some new faces from B-Division. God Bless Our Armed Forces! Bye for now from the Heart of Dixie!
Sid (Doc) Dockery
Wednesday, September 28, 2005 at 20:27:02 (PDT)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Ed Burkhardt, give me a call sometime. My phone number is (937)725-0326. I would really enjoy talking to you again to catch up on 23 years of history.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at 16:40:14 (PDT)Name: Palmer Reese
Rank/Rate: CS3/E4
Division/Squadron: S2 Division & VAH2
Years Aboard: July 64- Nov65
Comments: Came aboard in July 1964. Was a cook in S2 Division and then transfered to VAH2 Squadron sometime in 1965. Was on deployment Dec.64, left Hawaii in Jan 65. Spended the first 55 days at sea. I do have photo's and It was a great time for me. I read thru the guest book and only saw one other from this time period. Hope all is well and I cannot belive it was only a short 40 years ago. God Bless to all who served on board the USS Coral Sea......
Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at 16:39:21 (PDT)Name: Palmer Reese
Rank/Rate: CS3/E4
Division/Squadron: S2 Division & VAH2
Years Aboard: July 64- Nov65
Comments: Came aboard in July 1964. Was a cook in S2 Division and then transfered to VAH2 Squadron sometime in 1965. Was on deployment Dec.64, left Hawaii in Jan 65. Spended the first 55 days at sea. I do have photo's and It was a great time for me. I read thru the guest book and only saw on other from this time period. Hope all is well and I cannot belive it was only a short 40 years ago. God Bless to all who served on board the USS Coral Sea......
Monday, September 26, 2005 at 20:18:54 (PDT)Name: JIMMY THOMPSON
Rank/Rate: ABE3
Division/Squadron: V-2
Years Aboard: 1967-1970
Comments: MOST OF THE TIME I WAS ABOARD I WORKED IN CAT-2 CONTROL ROOM. DOES ANYONE KNOW IF WE WERE IN CONTACT WITH AGENT ORANGE AT ANYTIME DURING THIS TIME PERIOD? THANKS HAVE A NICE DAY.
Sunday, September 18, 2005 at 19:08:07 (PDT)Name: Mike Smith
Rank/Rate: AD2
Division/Squadron: Nav & AIMD
Years Aboard: 79-83
Comments: Miss those guys on the old coral maru...the PI Thailand korea and the big kahuna's during those pineapple cruises... 102 in the I.O. Hey Beek hope you are OK in NOLA and peeta waka from maine,and moose and nozzle on the rocky moutain high coral canoe ruled...even tho at the time we thought it was the rustbucket from hell
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 at 20:56:36 (PDT)Name: DUANE WEHUS
Rank/Rate: AN/E3
Division/Squadron: V-3
Years Aboard: 77-79
Comments: ANY OF YOU V-3 DECK RATS REMEMBER MY BROTHER STEVE"WEASLE" AND I ON THE 77 WESTPAC.THEN CAME BREMERTON,THAT SUCKED!BROOM THE DECK ! HEY JACKSON,LORIMOR,CARRY,PETERSON,PAINE,HARDCASTLE "WHAT ARE YOUUUUUU DOING?"
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 at 12:37:39 (PDT)Name: Mike (Oscar)Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BTFN
Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom
Years Aboard: 74-77
Comments: Less than 3 weeks until the Jacksonville Reunion, Hope to see alot of new faces there!!!
Monday, September 12, 2005 at 15:53:37 (PDT)Name: Jon Allen
Rank/Rate: MM3
Division/Squadron: A Gang
Years Aboard: 85-89
Comments: YESTERDAY MARKS 4 YEARS....I POST THIS SAME ITEM EACH 9/11 ON THE CORAL SEA SITE. THE ORIGINAL WAS POSTED 9/11/01.
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.
9/11 - NEVER FORGET! USS CORAL SEA SAILORS - WELL DONE!!!
Monday, September 12, 2005 at 14:41:22 (PDT)Name: Mike Craig
Rank/Rate: YN
Division/Squadron: VA-55
Years Aboard: 87-89 MED Cruises
Comments: Great webpage, It has almost been 20 years and my career is almost over like Coral Sea. I remember buffing the Ready Room and having the CO come in and turn on the Greg Almond band and start buffing, what a great time. That was my first of two deployments with VA-55. I had a great time in the summer and winter during deployments. Especially the Summer in Palma, lots of drinks. The Navy has come a long way.
Thursday, September 08, 2005 at 00:50:21 (PDT)Name: Dave Segerberg
Rank/Rate: MM1
Division/Squadron: M div.
Years Aboard: 75-77
Comments: #3 generator
Monday, September 05, 2005 at 21:24:19 (PDT)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Eddie Burkhardt, I'm in New Vienna, Ohio. It is a little town north of Cincinnati. I don't have e-mail at home, I use my cell phone so I don't have a phone line in the house.
Monday, September 05, 2005 at 21:05:36 (PDT)Name: Ray Carsjens
Rank/Rate: E -2
Division/Squadron: 2 charlie fireroom
Years Aboard: 76-77
Comments: I remember a few good timess. Wheres Rabbit or Magnum at. Shes Hot when your deep in Her hole. 128 +
Monday, September 05, 2005 at 21:03:02 (PDT)Name: Ray Carsjens
Rank/Rate: E -2
Division/Squadron: 2 charlie fireroom
Years Aboard: 6 months
Comments: I remember a few good timess. Wheres Rabbit or Magnum at. Shes Hot when your deep in Her hole. 128 +
Monday, September 05, 2005 at 12:11:51 (PDT)Name: Marty Sawyer
Rank/Rate: E2 - MM
Division/Squadron: M3 - 3 Screw Crew
Years Aboard: 3/79 - 7/81
Comments: I just spent the last 2 days looking over the guestbook entries and it reminded me of times reading and writing in the "Bitch Book" which sustained a life amongst the wayward group that I was a part of. Hey Ivan! I don't know if you remember me. I used to ride my skateboard around the berthing compartment. I started in the shaft alleys with Frank Biondo, and then worked with JRoy in the Pump Room where I stayed the rest of my time. Anyway, I always repected you, because you always respected others.
I've recognized others on this site and encourage them to write. Yesterday I went down to the USS Midway in San Diego. On the tour, 3 Engine was part of the Engineering tour. It was like going back home. They're pretty strick about getting off-tour, so I couldn't go to the 3 Pump Lower Level - where I spent most of my time. A great ship, and a great tour.
Hey Frank Biondo! I've tried sending emails, but I'm not sure if they're right. Let me know.
Hey Roger Abe - Helmsman, Paint Lock PO - Where are you? We skateboarded the entire Bay Area. I still do, mostly in skateparks now. And mostly as an "old-schooler." I might not get the air or vert that the kids do, but I can say that I've skated in every port we visited on West Pac 79/80 - except for Pusan, which was because I got caught smokin' weed with a bunch of airdales (what a retard - lesson: never go outside your own neighborhood) and was on restriction.
Hey out there! Is Klink out there? I can still remember your cowboy accent.
Hey Mike Dougherty! You out there too? Remember I bought your 76 Honda? When I got out, I rode it up to Montana. What a great bike. What a great trip. You were a great friend, as was Frank. I think of you on occasion, wondering how you are.
Hey Hague! Our spiritual leader. Are you out there too? Let me know.
I know I'm going on and on, but after yesterday's Midway visit, I realized how much of an impact my tour on the Coral Sea made in my life. I still use the "We Like It Here" story as one of hope and attitude. I know for a fact that if it wasn't for JRoy coming up with that phrase, I don't think I'd be alive today.
Monday, September 05, 2005 at 12:11:24 (PDT)Name: Marty Sawyer
Rank/Rate: E2 - MM
Division/Squadron: M3 - 3 Screw Crew
Years Aboard: 3/79 - 7/81
Comments: I just spent the last 2 days looking over the guestbook entries and it reminded me of times reading and writing in the "Bitch Book" which sustained a life amongst the wayward group that I was a part of. Hey Ivan! I don't know if you remember me. I used to ride my skateboard around the berthing compartment. I started in the shaft alleys with Frank Biondo, and then worked with JRoy in the Pump Room where I stayed the rest of my time. Anyway, I always repected you, because you always respected others.
I've recognized others on this site and encourage them to write. Yesterday I went down to the USS Midway in San Diego. On the tour, 3 Engine was part of the Engineering tour. It was like going back home. They're pretty strick about getting off-tour, so I couldn't go to the 3 Pump Lower Level - where I spent most of my time. A great ship, and a great tour.
Hey Frank Biondo! I've tried sending emails, but I'm not sure if they're right. Let me know.
Hey Roger Abe - Helmsman, Paint Lock PO - Where are you? We skateboarded the entire Bay Area. I still do, mostly in skateparks now. And mostly as an "old-schooler." I might not get the air or vert that the kids do, but I can say that I've skated in every port we visited on West Pac 79/80 - except for Pusan, which was because I got caught smokin' weed with a bunch of airdales (what a retard - lesson: never go outside your own neighborhood) and was on restriction.
Hey out there! Is Klink out there? I can still remember your cowboy accent.
Hey Mike Dougherty! You out there too? Remember I bought your 76 Honda? When I got out, I rode it up to Montana. What a great bike. What a great trip. You were a great friend, as was Frank. I think of you on occasion, wondering how you are.
Hey Hague! Our spiritual leader. Are you out there too? Let me know.
I know I'm going on and on, but after yesterday's Midway visit, I realized how much of an impact my tour on the Coral Sea made in my life. I still use the "We Like It Here" story as one of hope and attitude. I know for a fact that if it wasn't for JRoy coming up with that phrase, I don't think I'd be alive today.
Monday, September 05, 2005 at 12:10:49 (PDT)Name: J Land
Rank/Rate: MS3
Division/Squadron: SS05
Years Aboard: 79-82
Comments: Hey everyone! I was just a suburbanite when I arrived at the Coral Sea in Bremerton (1979-80), what an eye opener! Yeah, I was a total bootcamp. But, some of the old salts like Moose (S2) & Pat M. helped me out, & partied with me at their pad, somewhere in the outskirts of Bremerton. I will always be grateful for those guys taking me under their wing, so to speak.
I was wondering about Chief Nagranza (S5). He was a great guy, saved me from getting tossed out of the Navy, that I will never forget.
Monday, September 05, 2005 at 11:39:45 (PDT)Name: eddie burkhardt
Rank/Rate: an
Division/Squadron: air/V-1
Years Aboard: 4
Comments: hey now! tex,where in ohio are you ? i'm in the detroit area.well...anybody out there remember tractor shack apple jack!! ummmmmm love that stand down treat!made it in foam cans under bench seats.texx, email me man! later ed.
Friday, September 02, 2005 at 17:46:09 (PDT)Name: James Taylor
Rank/Rate: ADAN
Division/Squadron: VF-83
Years Aboard: 1953
Comments: jimrose14@netzero.com
Friday, September 02, 2005 at 17:44:25 (PDT)Name: James Taylor
Rank/Rate: ADAN
Division/Squadron: VF-83
Years Aboard: 1953
Comments: Like to hear from shipmates on the cruise.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005 at 22:39:05 (PDT)Name: John Harris
Rank/Rate: ETR2
Division/Squadron: OE
Years Aboard: 1973 - 1976
Comments: Arrived on the deck in ’73 in a mail COD --- on the “line” off the coast of ‘Nam --- it’s a rush to catch the wire --- it’s a bigger rush missing it the first time around. The next day’s COD missed the landing wires and hit the island. Worked in OE Div --- radars and related equip. During one of the WestPacs cruises someone played with the piping from the JP-5 fuel tanks and the fresh water tanks which allowed the two systems to mix and the crew was treated to jet fuel in the drinking water (that included the showers) --- the Skipper and Medical Officer took a few minutes of their schedule on the closed circuit TV and told us the drinking water was better for us than drinking a coke --- all I know is it didn’t taste better --- and soap was not much good in the showers. Nevertheless --- I wouldn’t trade my days on the Lady --- she didn’t play submarine and I appreciated that. We had an unhappy sailor throw a wrench into the gears and we spent ~ 10-days along Alava pier in Subic while 15’ x 15’ sections of the hangar deck and about 5 more decks were removed for the repair. Other than that --- Coral Sea didn’t miss a mission --- and we found time in ’75 to visit Perth Australia.
Monday, August 29, 2005 at 13:16:25 (PDT)Name: William Renfro
Comments: I am slow to answer,but I would like to hear from my shippies!
Friday, August 26, 2005 at 19:48:02 (PDT)Name: joe griebel
Rank/Rate: am2
Division/Squadron: vf 11
Years Aboard: aug 56 feb 57
Comments: still looking for buddies from 56 cruise and vf 11. joe
Tuesday, August 23, 2005 at 16:37:48 (PDT)Name: Ray Meketa
Rank/Rate: GM2
Division/Squadron: 5th Div
Years Aboard: '54 - '57
Comments: Finally, another GM from the 5th Div. From another time but, hey, a GM is a GM no matter what. William, check your e-mail. I'm sending you one soon. I've got to find out all about the guns of the 70s.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005 at 14:45:25 (PDT)Name: William Renfro
Rank/Rate: GMG 3
Division/Squadron: 5th Div.
Years Aboard: 70-74
Comments: When I heard about the scrapping of the CORAL SEA, it brought tears to my eyes. I think about spending time at Hunters Point ship yard, during the major overhaul. The two WEST-PAC cruises and all the great guys I met.
Monday, August 22, 2005 at 20:24:21 (PDT)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Just checking in, John Tipton and Eddie Burkhardt where are you. I do not have e-mail right now.
Monday, August 22, 2005 at 19:38:43 (PDT)Name: wayne musgrove
Rank/Rate: son
Years Aboard: durring nam
Comments: thought I would look up the ship and see letters and learn.
Monday, August 22, 2005 at 17:26:23 (PDT)Name: Bill McNally
Rank/Rate: AZ3(AW)
Division/Squadron: V-2/IM-2
Years Aboard: 85-89
Comments: I was a Coral Seaman from '85-'89. When we hit Libya during Operation El Dorado Canyon, Public Affairs produced a video concerning the operation. It had miscellaneous shots of the ship and personnel against the audio background of Lee Greenwoods "God Bless the USA" and a parody song.
If anyone has knowledge of how I could obtain a copy of this video I would be much appreciative. Please inform me either way.
Thanks!
Saturday, August 20, 2005 at 18:07:19 (PDT)Name: Robert Rupp
Rank/Rate: ?
Division/Squadron: ?
Comments: This man was my father and has passed away when I was very young. I am looking to hear any information possible that someone can share with me. All I know is that he served on the USS Coral snd the USS Constellation, and is a Veitnam Veteran. Thank You.
Sunday, August 14, 2005 at 22:36:28 (PDT)Name: John B. Toohey
Years Aboard: 1961-1964
Comments: Just thought I would give this a try. My Father John B. Toohey who served on the Coral Sea passed away Aug of last year (1943-2004) and I am just trying to learn a litte more about him from his early years. So if you served with him or knew him I would love to talk.
Brandon Toohey
Saturday, August 13, 2005 at 19:26:09 (PDT)Name: Norman C. Rhotehamel
Rank/Rate: Sargeant
Division/Squadron: Marines VMA 211
Years Aboard: 1951-1952
Comments: I served proudly during the Korean conflict
Friday, August 12, 2005 at 14:51:31 (PDT)Name: Pat Carley
Rank/Rate: HT3
Division/Squadron: Repair/Flying Squad
Years Aboard: 82-85
Comments: Hello all, To all my fellow shipmates out there give me a buzz sometime it would be great to hear from you. To everyone who was onboard in 1985 when we had the head on with the "NAPO" I would love to hear your story of what happened to you on that very dreadful evening. Like I have posted before, I am writing a screenplay about the Coral Sea leading up to that crash. Email me your story I could really use somebodys input rather then just mine. To the guys who have already emailed me your storys, thank you it was a big help. I also have a quick question for all of you. What was a "Red Eagle"? When they called that over the 1MC did it mean that an intuder was onboard? Good Luck to you all! Patrick Carley
Friday, August 12, 2005 at 04:50:41 (PDT)Name: Stephen Davis
Rank/Rate: PT-3
Division/Squadron: OP-1
Years Aboard: 66-69
Comments: Does anyone remember the kid who pushed the electronics pod off the flight deck? He thought it was a bomb. He got a ticket home on the next flight. Does anyone remember the Blue Angels Cmdr. who got blown overboard by the Phantom checking his afterburners? There where a lot of good times too but I still hear those last radio transmissions from pilots shot down by sams and aa. We all grew up pretty quick.
God bless the Coral Sea and God Bless her crew.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005 at 15:41:04 (PDT)Name: Ray Meketa
Rank/Rate: GM2
Division/Squadron: 5th Div
Years Aboard: 53-57
Comments: Checking in again. Still looking for any 5-inch Gunners Mates. There must be a few left although I'm sure they are a lot older than me by now. Seems like only yesterday.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005 at 12:08:10 (PDT)Name: Victor "Butch" Ervin
Rank/Rate: ABE3
Division/Squadron: V-2
Years Aboard: 1
Comments: Served on the Coral Sea during the 1972-73 West-Pac curise. I joined the crew during the curise and was assigned to the waste cats. Couple of the guys I was in Boot Camp and Memphis then Texas with were also assigned to the Coral Sea.
Friday, August 05, 2005 at 08:20:30 (PDT)Name: Victor Dick
Rank/Rate: OS3
Division/Squadron: OI
Years Aboard: '82-'83
Comments: Greetings Shipmates, Warriors, and Patriots,
I'm looking for my long lost shipmates. You know who you are-email me
Thursday, August 04, 2005 at 12:32:59 (PDT)Name: Mike (Oscar) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BTFN
Division/Squadron: B-Div. 4ABLE Fireroom
Years Aboard: 74-77
Comments: Only about two months before Jacksonville Florida REUNION, Hope to see YOU there!!!
Monday, August 01, 2005 at 09:30:20 (PDT)Name: Richard Pittman
Comments: It was an honor serving aboard the Coral Sea
Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 18:06:25 (PDT)Name: Lou Casale
Rank/Rate: GM3
Division/Squadron: 4th
Years Aboard: '55, '57
Comments: Sorry, the website is : usaircombat.com. See post below.
Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 18:00:47 (PDT)Name: Lou Casale
Rank/Rate: GM3
Division/Squadron: 4th Div 3"50 Gunners mate
Years Aboard: 1955, 57
Comments: Just checking in to give my new e-mail address.Have any of you been contacted about those licence plate frames? I was, and they must have got my e-mail off this site. I bought one, and had USS Coral Sea CVA 43 on top and US Navy veteran on the bottom. It looks real sharp and only cost$12. You can have anything written on them. The website is : aircombat.com. Check it out.Would like to hear from anyone who made the '55 and '56 cruises plus the shakedown to Gitmo.
Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 13:17:48 (PDT)Name: don joseph
Rank/Rate: e-4
Division/Squadron: b-div
Years Aboard: 74-78
Comments: DOES ANYBODY REMEMBER THE TACOS AT GRANDMAS PLACE IN ALONGAPO, SAME PLACE WHERE CROCADILES WAS IN THE POOL, FLIGHT OF THE INTRUDER WAS FILMED, GREAT TACOS & SAUCE
Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 12:51:14 (PDT)Name: don joseph
Rank/Rate: e-4
Division/Squadron: b-div
Years Aboard: 74-78
Comments: sent pics of alongapo block party & pics of capt frick, don't see them on the site , like to hear from don colwell, ca, how bout jimmy pitts or fessler
Wednesday, July 27, 2005 at 15:40:11 (PDT)Name: Mark Gadomski
Rank/Rate: AMS-3
Division/Squadron: PLAT-LENS / AIMD
Years Aboard: 79,80,81
Comments: Still in touch with a few of the guys and sorry to hear my PAL CMDR. McRay passed on. As the Air Boss he was a hell of a great guy. Worked V-2 Cats and Gear but ended up in PLAT/LENS for the longest duration. I would say one of the best jobs on the ship and you got to see all the action....and I mean ALL the Action. I was in the Island Camera when the A-7 lost it's strut and took out the LENS, behind the Air Boss when the A-7 lost it's tail hook and we had the Barricade Arrestment and also behind the "BOSS" when the A-6 Piolet freaked and ejected and left his bombadeer to fend for himself....If your out there "NITRO" we still love ya.... d:-)
Wednesday, July 27, 2005 at 13:33:53 (PDT)Name: Terry Doepke
Rank/Rate: AG2
Division/Squadron: "OA" Division (Weather Guessers)
Years Aboard: 1969-1971
Comments: Looking for Henry Elrod or Carl Arthur. If anyone knows of them please have them contact me.
Sunday, July 24, 2005 at 14:01:32 (PDT)Name: Barry Fitch
Rank/Rate: E-4
Division/Squadron: B & M division Yeoman
Years Aboard: 74-77
Comments: I would like to hear from any bt's or mm. I can't remember all the faces but i do remember a lot of names. When passing out the mail you see a lot of faces.This is a great site.
Saturday, July 23, 2005 at 22:25:37 (PDT)Name: Rodney Schaar
Rank/Rate: RM3
Division/Squadron: CR
Years Aboard: 70-71
Comments: Checked onboard in Hunter's Point nsy. Lots of painting and overhauling going on. Glad I got to see the sea trials and flight ops. I sure have a ton of respect for those pilots after watching them at work. Those F-4's were awesome.
Great website and my best to all former crewmen.
Friday, July 22, 2005 at 17:47:54 (PDT)Name: James Walck
Rank/Rate: ATC(AW)
Division/Squadron: VF-111
Years Aboard: 1973-1975
Comments: The days of my early navy life, I was an AQAN/AQ3 in them days, I saw an entry from one of my buddies Doug Pratt listed here.
Friday, July 22, 2005 at 14:45:18 (PDT)Name: Darrell Young
Rank/Rate: RM3
Division/Squadron: Communications
Years Aboard: 1983-1987
Comments: I have some Pictures to share with everyone, you can find them at the following web address: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/daytiger2062/album?
Thursday, July 21, 2005 at 21:13:34 (PDT)Name: R. Kevin Heaberlin (Heeb, Heebie)
Rank/Rate: ETR3
Division/Squadron: OE/Habitability
Years Aboard: 76/80
Comments: 2 WestPacs and Bremerton. Hey Fred:the Muppett Movie at Alameda! Lance and Ken: Radar 9!! Hab Div skiing at Snoqualmie(tell the truth, none of us got laid there). The PI (on the other hand, all of us did!) The all day concert at Oakland Coliseum.
Bug Juice. Japanese TV when in Yokuska. Monkey meat and San Miguel in the PI. Oscar in Pusan(the Army boys making hamburgers on shore when you got off the Venus liberty boat).
6 hours in Pearl .... Ross and I got off the ship to tie one on...didn't get back from the PX till the afterbrow was up, had to come across the quarterdeck and Ross was in TERRIBLE shape. PRIMO was the beer there.
Missing 120days in the IO....beach det in PI "for the convienience of the government."
Long workdays at sea and being proud of it all. Where has the time gone? Grew up somewhere along the way. Love reading the stories from Coral Sea vets across the years.
Thursday, July 21, 2005 at 18:12:26 (PDT)Name: Mike Delaney
Rank/Rate: PO2c/Photographer
Division/Squadron: Operations
Years Aboard: 1955~1957
Comments: Did the shakedown and Med cruises..had a great time both in learning my craft as well as enjoying navy shipboard life!
Wednesday, July 20, 2005 at 10:28:04 (PDT)Name: Darrell Young
Rank/Rate: RM3
Division/Squadron: Communications
Years Aboard: 1983-1987
Comments: Just wanted to say Hi to all you Coral Sea Vets.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005 at 08:50:11 (PDT)Name: Tony Ricciardella
Rank/Rate: PH1(AW)/ PHC(AW)
Division/Squadron: OP
Years Aboard: 86/90
Comments: Hell of a good ship
Wednesday, July 20, 2005 at 08:15:08 (PDT)Name: Forrest Whitten
Rank/Rate: SM3
Division/Squadron: O2-S
Years Aboard: 1947-48
Comments: Went aboard when still in Newport News Shipyard prior to Commission.
Would like to hear from shipmates.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005 at 00:48:49 (PDT)Name: Armando Garcia
Rank/Rate: AN
Division/Squadron: AIMD/IM1/Tech Lib
Years Aboard: 71-72
Comments: Looking for old shipmates, especially ABAN David Castro from V2 Div. Where did
you disapear to compa???
Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at 14:41:38 (PDT)Name: Ray Meketa
Rank/Rate: GM2 (5"/54 Guns)
Division/Squadron: 5th Div
Years Aboard: 1954 - 57
Comments: Forgot to fill in rank and years aboard
Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at 14:38:34 (PDT)Name: Ray Meketa
Comments: Two Med Cruises and around the Horn to Bremerton for the first conversion. Sailors from the Cruel Sea were well known for being interested in only 3 things - beer, girls, and hmmmmm, okay, 2 things.
Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at 14:03:35 (PDT)Name: Charles "Ben"Beneventi
Comments: Miss the ship and the crew!Those were the days!
Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at 13:11:00 (PDT)Name: Bob (Rich) Richardson
Rank/Rate: E4
Division/Squadron: Vaw-113
Years Aboard: 1983-84
Comments: Filled out last one incorrectly...duhh
Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at 13:09:04 (PDT)Name: Bob (Rich) Richardson
Rank/Rate: E4
Division/Squadron: Vaw-113 Blackeagles
Years Aboard: 3
Comments: World cruise 1983. Been in contact with Finley and Kabashigawa...meeting Finley for EAA/Oshkosh 05.
Saturday, July 16, 2005 at 19:58:21 (PDT)Name: Ron Pettengill
Rank/Rate: MMFN
Division/Squadron: B Div/Forward Evaps
Years Aboard: 76-79
Comments: Mike Pfeffer (Oscar) you named Don Colwell and Doc. I birthed with Don and ran into Doc quite often. Don Colwell, what a great guy! I really like this site. Keep up the news!
Saturday, July 16, 2005 at 19:14:40 (PDT)Name: Ron Pettengill
Comments: Hey all my old west pac buddies!!!
Friday, July 15, 2005 at 14:42:26 (PDT)Name: Joe Hein
Rank/Rate: SGT USMC
Division/Squadron: VMA 224 / Ship Investigator
Years Aboard: 1971-72
Comments: Greetings to Capt Harris, members of the Master at Arms Division, John Gray and Vic. Serving with you on board the Coral Sea has always held a special place in my memories. Drop me a line. I'd love to hear from you. Simper Fi
Thursday, July 14, 2005 at 14:44:39 (PDT)Name: Dawyn E. Borders
Rank/Rate: AN-AB3
Division/Squadron: V1-H &MAA
Years Aboard: 5/50-3/53
Comments: We ran over a whale. We took aboard SOS, beef stew,and chicken a-la-king so many times a young sailor in one of the storekeeper outfits wrote his mama who called a congressman who got the supply officer an old army major fired. That sailor was a hero. "Raisin Jack" made us happy. Beans, boiled eggs, and corn bread for breakfast- and the people kept getting out- now I know why. Someone turned the sprinkler system on the officers and their "dates" at some port once-they all got wet and mad. The MAA's never caught the rascal that did it.
Wonderful ship. Wonderful time of my life
Thursday, July 14, 2005 at 10:45:51 (PDT)Name: ABE1 Jim Capasso
Rank/Rate: E6/ABE1(AW)
Division/Squadron: V2
Years Aboard: 87-89
Comments:
Looking for some V2 Shipmates to contact and swap some sea stories with. I am still in. Finishing off my 20 years. retire in about 2 years. CV43 Was the best carrier I served on for 2 reasons, 1 is the Shipmates were awesome and second the ship kept you on your toes. I went up to Baltimore to see her 1 last time and there was just a small piece left of her.The Best years of my Navy career was spent onboard the Ageless Warrior.
Thursday, July 14, 2005 at 10:43:49 (PDT)Name: ABE1 Jim Capasso
Rank/Rate: ABE1(AW)/E6
Division/Squadron: V2
Years Aboard: 3
Comments: Looking for some V2 Shipmates to contact and swap some sea stories with. I am still in. Finishing off my 20 years. retire in about 2 years. CV43 Was the best carrier I served on for 2 reasons, 1 is the Shipmates were awesome and second the ship kept you on your toes. I went up to Baltimore to see her 1 last time and there was just a small piece left of her.The Best years of my Navy career was spent onboard the Ageless Warrior.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005 at 15:12:19 (PDT)Name: Dan Henry
Rank/Rate: BT2 (+-)
Division/Squadron: Oil Shack / 1 Baker
Years Aboard: '77 - '80
Comments: Four grueling years of partying and chasing hookers in service to my country.
FO Pumpers RULE
Tuesday, July 12, 2005 at 06:53:43 (PDT)Name: Dawyn Edward Borders
Rank/Rate: AB3
Division/Squadron: Ships Company (V-1 Div. MAA)
Years Aboard: 3 (1950-1953)
Comments: Three of the most exciting,fascinating,enjoyable years in which I learned more than in any other comparable period of my life. I couldn't even start to put a value on what I learned and what I experienced on the Coral Sea.
The most unforgettable person I ever met on the ship- or anywhere else for that matter-was Chief Boatswain Mate Dugas who was the ship's Chief Master-At-Arms. Many others were also almost as unforgettable but I think my computer would crash before I got around to them all.
Monday, July 11, 2005 at 23:49:49 (PDT)Name: Kevin B. McGonigle
Rank/Rate: AQAN
Division/Squadron: VQ-1
Years Aboard: 1979
Comments: A-3 squadron attached from early December 1979 until we pulled into Cubi Pt. just before Christmas. AES LaRoc! Great memories.
Monday, July 11, 2005 at 20:55:58 (PDT)Name: Kelly Porter
Rank/Rate: family member
Comments: My father, Wayne Young, was aboard the USS Coral Sea from 65-66. He is very proud of this fact and has many memories of this time. He is looking for his friend T.C. Hill. He would love to hear from him. Please email me if you are out there T.C. or if anyone knows how I could get a hold of him.
Thank you to all you Veterans that served!
Kelly
Monday, July 11, 2005 at 09:13:29 (PDT)Name: Richard Tobin
Rank/Rate: ABE3
Division/Squadron: V2 Div. Forward Cats
Years Aboard: 1971-1972
Comments: Found this site & it brought back lots of memories the audio section was great it brought me back like it was yesterday, hope someone from the old div. see's this and says Hi.
Sunday, July 10, 2005 at 20:55:40 (PDT)Name: Ray Johnson
Rank/Rate: ABE 2
Division/Squadron: V- 2 A/G
Years Aboard: 83 - 86
Comments: JUST WANTED TO CHECK IN AGAIN, THANKS FELLOW SHIPMATES FOR A GREAT WEB SITE, ITS BEEN GREAT HEARING FROM OLD FRIENDS.
Friday, July 08, 2005 at 18:36:14 (PDT)Name: John F. Janis
Division/Squadron: A
Years Aboard: 65-68
Comments: Jack Armini, are you out there? I would like to hear from you or any of my old shipmates who knew me!
Friday, July 08, 2005 at 09:52:17 (PDT)Name: lisa linscott
Years Aboard: korea
Comments: My father Jack Scott was a radioman during the Korean conflict. I have found many photos of him and his crewmates going thru his things. He past away in 2003. He was very proud of his ship and time spent on her. Per his request he was buried in his USS Coral Sea cap. He also left one for his only grandaughter, my daughter.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005 at 23:00:25 (PDT)Name: Larry Elliott Jr. "Texx"
Rank/Rate: ABHAN
Division/Squadron: V-1 division
Years Aboard: 78- 82
Comments: Bob Dorais I just saw your VA-27 Royal Mace site, I was ship's company but wanted to tell you what a great job you are doing with both sites. Thanks for bringing back some real good memories. I got a chance to look through the photo galleries especially from my time aboard, which also pretty closely hits your time. I have to see if I can still find it but I have a picture of me the day I made yellow shirt in front of one of your A-7's. I will send it to you if you'd like. When I looked at the pictures of the scrapping, I couldn't help but to get choked up. Again, keep up the good work on both sites, you keep CV-43 alive in the hearts of alot of us. Thanks again, Larry Elliott Jr.
Monday, July 04, 2005 at 04:49:26 (PDT)Name: Bob Blough
Rank/Rate: 1Lt, USAF
Division/Squadron: 40 ARRS (USAF)
Years Aboard: 10 minutes
Comments: Delivered 34 tuckered out and wounded Marines from Koh Tang (Mayaguez Rescue) the night of 15 May 1975. Call sign Jolly Green 44.
Trying to identify and contact the Coral Sea SH-3 crewmembers who backed up the AF H-53's. They were ready to attempt to recover Marines from Koh Tang in their unarmed and unarmored SH-3's if we ran out of H-53's (which almost happened).
These guys never got the recognition they deserve. I'm trying to correct that oversight 30 years late.
To the entire crew of the Coral Sea, thanks for being there, and thanks for the JP5.
Bob Blough
LtCol, USAFR(Ret)
Saturday, July 02, 2005 at 10:58:54 (PDT)Name: Len Connor
Rank/Rate: ms3
Division/Squadron: S5
Years Aboard: 1884-1988
Comments: Am i the only MS with a computer? I read every entry and could not find anyone i knew. I hope someone reads this who knew me. I would love to here from them. Next week i am traveling to upstate NY to see my longtime friend Fred Lamica also an MS on the Coral Sea. He is the only one i have kept in contact with. I live in Northern Kentucky just 10 miles from Cincinnati. I hope to here from any of my old friends.Does anyone know how to get a cruisebook from the 87/88 cruise?
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at 18:44:53 (PDT)Name: Mike (Oscar) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BTFN
Division/Squadron: B-Div. 4ABLE Fireroom
Years Aboard: 1974-77
Comments: Larry Drummond, I saw your message at Classmatews.com E-mail me.. Oscar
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at 14:27:38 (PDT)Name: Charles Nagle
Rank/Rate: ADJ-1
Division/Squadron: VF-111, HC-1 DET 3
Years Aboard: 71-74, 78-81
Comments: To all fellow shipmates, enjoyed reading about the times on board the best ship in the fleet. Looking forward to seeing fellow shipmates at the renuion in Jacksonville.
Monday, June 27, 2005 at 12:13:43 (PDT)Name: GENE LAUDERDALE
Rank/Rate: AO-2
Division/Squadron: G DIVISION
Years Aboard: 1960-1965
Comments: GREAT SIGHT, BRINGS BACK A LOT OF GOOD MEMORIES
Monday, June 27, 2005 at 06:54:57 (PDT)Name: Vaughn M. Ehrman
Rank/Rate: MAC/ABEC Ret.
Division/Squadron: V-2 Gear and Cat-3
Years Aboard: Apr 72 - Apr 74
Comments: Some of my best times were on the Coral Sea. It was sad to see her being cut up in Baltimore. Where I am originally from. I was a medicore ABE at best, but I liked my hookrunning job though. I went on to becoming MAC and then made the powers that be mad and was recoverted to ABEC and not to disgrace the rate I retired. I had to make rate it was tough being "Airman Ehrman"!
Sunday, June 26, 2005 at 22:17:30 (PDT)Name: johnkukta
Rank/Rate: PR-1
Division/Squadron: VA-86
Years Aboard: 1969-70
Comments: Hey guys;Just checking in.Had breakfast with an old shipmate, Roger Hayes, V2-Cats,69-70.He lives in San Diego.I got out in ,74.Saratoga,America,Coral Sea.Coral Maru was the cleanest and the best.God bless all you Swabbies!Hey, any of you Riggers from AIMD Paraloft out there? John Kukta.
Sunday, June 26, 2005 at 11:53:05 (PDT)Name: James Taylor
Rank/Rate: ADAN
Division/Squadron: VF 83
Years Aboard: 1953
Comments: I would like to hear from anyone that made this Med cruise and remembers any details of the day we launched on a very foggy morning and lost several aircraft and pilots then went back too Naples for a change of command.
jimrose14@netzero.com
Saturday, June 25, 2005 at 12:51:19 (PDT)Name: Benedict Anthony Xavier
Comments: I am fasinated by this beautiful ship
Friday, June 24, 2005 at 10:59:17 (PDT)Name: Bill Norris
Rank/Rate: SH3
Division/Squadron: Supply (S-3)
Years Aboard: 81 - 84
Comments: As so many of my shipmates have said "A lot of good memories aboard that ole girl". Jumped on in Pearl Harbor in late June of 81 and stayed with her until dry dock at Norfolk in December of 84.
Wish you all well,
Bill
Wednesday, June 22, 2005 at 10:13:21 (PDT)Name: Herman Doernbach
Rank/Rate: EM2
Division/Squadron: E
Years Aboard: 50-52
Comments: T. C. Clark - contact me about shoulder patch if the patch you are looking for is the narrow U.S.S. CORAL SEA patch (white letters on Navy Blue cloth)
Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 20:52:55 (PDT)Name: Wayne Guy
Rank/Rate: ABH3
Division/Squadron: V-3
Years Aboard: 87- DECOM
Comments: I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU ALL,DICKENS,MINCEY,VASSIL,BELL,THE 4 SKIS,SMITH,LAT,BROCK,LAROCK,ARROYO,OPPELT,FOX,ANY OF YOU GUYS SEND EMAIL. GOOD TIMES!
Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 07:45:10 (PDT)Name: daniel e. szynkowski
Rank/Rate: e-4/
Division/Squadron: supply
Years Aboard: 1980-1985
Comments: I'm sorry to see the ship is no longer in service. You'd think they could have made a museum out of her.
Monday, June 20, 2005 at 18:19:22 (PDT)Name: Mike (Oscar) Pfeffer
Rank/Rate: BTFN
Division/Squadron: B-Div 4ABLE Fireroom
Years Aboard: 74-77
Comments: I don't believe I ever ate a bad meal on Coral Sea , but I do remember the bug juice always shined the rustiest of deck plates in our fireroom, no kidding. ask any Snipe...
Monday, June 20, 2005 at 15:58:23 (PDT)Name: John Reynolds
Comments: S-2 Division 1968-1971 We made some great food and the BUG JUICE was outstanding and the powdered milk!
Sunday, June 19, 2005 at 20:53:55 (PDT)Name: T. C. Clark
Rank/Rate: Seaman
Division/Squadron: Fox & Second Divisions
